the monitor

Local carrot giant targets regional markets

Jan Stiglingh
Jan Stiglingh

As the country continues to pursue food security and reduce dependence on agricultural imports, Lucerne Fields has emerged as a leading example of how local farmers can successfully fill market gaps whilst creating opportunities for export growth.

Located in the Tuli Block region, Lucerne Fields has grown into the country's largest carrot producer, supplying between 400,000 and 500,000 carrots to the domestic market every month. The farm's success demonstrates the potential of commercial agriculture to strengthen local food systems, create employment, and contribute to economic diversification.

The journey to becoming a leading producer was not without challenges. The founder of Lucerne Fields began farming in 2007 after years of preparation and investment by Jan Stiglingh . Guided by advice from his father to first establish a source of income before venturing into agriculture, Stiglingh invested his savings into developing farmland and installing boreholes to ensure a reliable water supply.

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