At 49, Nozuko Cezula has successfully transitioned from a career in education to becoming a prominent cattle farmer in KwaZulu-Natal. She operates on a 93-hectare Tafelkop farm in Greater Kokstad, within the Harry Gwala District, under her business, Nozuko Farming.
Her journey into agriculture began while she was still teaching. Owning a tractor at the time, she secured government contracts to plough fields for local farmers. It was during this period that she developed a vision of becoming a full-time farmer. That vision became a reality around 2011/2012 when she relocated to the farm through a government recapitalisation programme, starting her operation with 50 Beefmaster cattle.
Over time, her business gained momentum, supported by key investments. A major turning point came through assistance from the Agribusiness Development Agency, which provided R2.2 million in funding between 2022 and 2024. This enabled her to expand her herd and invest in essential infrastructure, including the purchase of additional cattle such as heifers and breeding bulls, as well as the construction of a storage facility.
Today, Cezula manages a substantial livestock operation, consisting of around 200 pregnant breeding cows, two bulls and 50 heifers. She has set her sights even higher, with plans to double her herd to 400 breeding cows in the future. Her operation is carefully structured, with calves weaned at weights of 240–250kg before being sold. Each year, she supplies approximately 50 live weaners to Karan Beef in Pietermaritzburg.
Beyond livestock production, her enterprise also contributes to local employment. She employs 21 workers, including six permanent staff members who receive benefits such as Unemployment Insurance Fund coverage and are paid in line with national labour regulations.
Her achievements have not gone unnoticed. Nozuko Cezula was recently recognised at the Phezukomkhono Female Farmer Awards, where her business won both the export category prize and the overall winner award, earning a total of R200,000.
From humble beginnings to leading a growing agricultural enterprise, her story reflects determination, strategic growth, and a strong commitment to building a sustainable farming business.
