Photo: Jan Grey | Source: Agricultural Writers SA
Mpumalanga’s agricultural sector is celebrating one of its own as Jan Grey of Brakfontein near Davel has been named the National Farmer of the Year 2025 by Agricultural Writers SA. A fourth-generation dairy farmer, Grey has built a diversified and highly efficient farming enterprise that has become a benchmark for modern, integrated agriculture in South Africa.
Grey manages Janvos Landgoed, a multi-sector operation that includes a flourishing dairy division, a commercial Boran herd, apple orchards, and extensive crop production across 3 200 hectares. His dairy unit, which milks more than 650 cows, recently invested in a 50-cow rapid-exit system to improve efficiency and animal flow—one of many innovations that earned him recognition at national level.
Beyond dairy, Grey’s agricultural footprint extends into a commercial Boran breeding programme known for producing high-value red bulls and crossbred weaner calves. His crop lands produce maize, soybeans, sugar beans and silage maize, supplying feed and contributing to the farm’s economic resilience. Each division of his business operates independently with its own cost and income centres, ensuring financial accountability and sustainability without cross-subsidisation.
Grey’s achievements extend beyond his farm gates. He has been an active leader within organised agriculture, contributing his expertise to community development and industry organisations. He has played a significant role in Grain SA and serves as a director in a joint agricultural initiative between Agri Mpumalanga and TLUSA (Transvaal Landbou-Unie Suid-Afrika) in the Ermelo region.
Photo: Jan Grey | Source: Agricultural Writers SA
Over the years, his farming business has received multiple accolades, but the National Farmer of the Year title stands out as a crowning achievement—recognising not only his operational excellence but also his commitment to advancing agriculture in Mpumalanga and South Africa.
Sources
- Agricultural Writers SA Facebook post (14 November 2025)
- Farmers Weekly: How a dairy concern adds value to a diversified operation