The 28 year old Kritzinger grows pome and stone fruit while also running Boran and Wagyu cattle studs, was named Agri Eastern Cape Toyota Young Farmer of the Year 2025 during a celebratory awards dinner at Mentors Country Estate in Jeffreys Bay on Wednesday.

The young farmer expressed his humble appreciation for the recognition stating that the award is a big honour to him as it’s something he has been looking forward to throughout his growth in farming, giving a resounding thanks to Agri Eastern Cape for the Award event and the recognition

The awards evening marked the growth and evolution of young leadership within the agriculture sector. James Miller, chairperson of the Agri Eastern Cape Young Farmer Committee, spoke about the vibrant future of farming in the province.

“The room is certainly getting younger. I say that with no disrespect to those who came before us, having served as councillors and delegates for their farmers’ associations. It’s incredibly encouraging to see the new generation of farmers stepping forward, taking ownership, and actively shaping the future of agricultural policy,” Miller said.

He proceeded to acknowledge the ongoing support of Toyota South Africa and Standard Bank for the awards, noting the commitment it took to judge the finalists across more than 1 700km of travel.

Leigh-Anne De Witt, Standard Bank’s executive head of business banking in the Eastern Cape, spoke about the bank’s commitment to supporting young farmers.

“As we honour the Young Farmer of the Year, we also celebrate every young farmer in this room and beyond. You are the ones who will carry agriculture through the challenges of the next 50 years. Thank you for your courage, your passion, and your willingness to be in the world,” she said.

A resounding congratulations to André Kritzinger, read more of this story HERE