November | December 2021
1. Executive Foreword
2021 closed on a positive note for the Marketing Division. Given the difficult nature of the years 2020 and 2022 brought on by COVID-19, it was necessary for Potatoes South Africa to give back to millions of South Africans who are exposed to food insecurity, as such a campaign called #passthepotato was launched on 1 December 2022. This initiative aims to encourage South Africans to donate potatoes to those in need, and to challenge friends and family members on social media to do the same using #PassThePotato.
As we begin the New Year, we are encouraging all South Africans to continue in the spirit of giving for just a little longer, and to take urgent action to support the poor and needy. Notably, potatoes offer an important source of complex carbohydrates for increasing feelings of satiety and providing sustained energy, making them the perfect gift for households facing issues of hunger.
Day and night. Hot and cold. Rich and poor. Life is cyclical and hinged on seasons. Today’s meagre plantation can spring fourth the feed the nations. Like potatoes, Potato Nation has learned to never despise the day of small beginnings. Even one bag of potatoes, regardless of the size, can be used to #PassThePotato an in turn, nourish, feed and revive families.
As a nation where tatters go all out – we put our heart in everything. From liaising with Daniel Mbombi “aka” Chef Mbombi to distribute potatoes and food hampers to the children of Phuthadichaba Youth Project in Roodepoort, to showing up at the Groentoer Petrusburg held in the Free State, we dared to be.
To this year, the next and eternity – what was, still is. The taste, versatility, convenience and value for money is something consumers can count on, no matter the time of day.
Wishing all our subscribers a spud-tacular 2022!
Yours in potatoes,
Immaculate Zinde,
Potatoes SA: Marketing Manager
2. Letter from the Editor
I have a dream. – It may not be of immense proportions such as the 1964 Nobel Peace Prize recipient, Martin Luther King Jr, but this dream lives nonetheless. This dream comes to life every time I see the #PassThePotato tuk-tuk, drives and other initiatives to feed just one hungry being.
It is not my dream, but ours. All of us, fellow South Africans who have tirelessly used the “humble potato” as tools for combating hunger across all regions, faiths and geographical divide. Whether at first or last light, regardless of the date, the is a tasty, versatile and convenient potato-infused dish.
The #PassThePotato campaign which was initially initiated during the festive season, has gained momentum and is forging a path into the hearts and stomachs of fellow South Africans. When my dream seems too farfetched and doubts of who do I think I am start to surface: I remind myself that I am a fellow human being – with a potato in my hand. I willingly #PassThePotato to manifest our collective dreams.
Your spud,
Phindiwe Nkosi
Potatoes SA: Marketing Specialist
3. Foodie Feature
If only you could see the smile of Mbonani Daniel Mbombi “aka” Chef Mbombi as he collaborates with organisations, including Potato Nation, to distribute potatoes and food hampers to the children of Phuthadichaba Youth Project in Roodepoort.
While he is known for his exceptional traditional dishes and foodie influencer creations; when it comes to children, and the marginalised, he is moved into actions that help to make things better.
Potato Nation (PN): Why did you collaborate with Potato Nation as part of the #PassThePotato charity campaign to help the needy children?
Chef Mbombi (CM): When you mention children, giving back and feeding the nation, I am all ears. The reason I reconnected with Potato Nation and NS Impact is because I care. I look at these children and I am so grateful that there are still people out there who want to make a difference to others, especially during these trying days.
PN: Why do you place so much value on giving back?
CM: Food is life – and potatoes really can go a long way in sustaining people, especially children. It is very important for me to not just share my cooking passion, but to also uplift society, especially the children.
PN: What do you think of potatoes?
CM: Potatoes are an exceptional vegetable that is versatile, healthy and fits into many dishes. I regularly cook with it and also appreciate the role the potato industry is playing in reaching out.
PN: What do you think of collaborations?
CM: There is power in collaborations. This is not the first time that I work with Potato Nation. I have created various traditional potato-dishes that go well with chicken feet, liver and other foods that South Africans enjoy!
For more information on Chef Mbombi, you’re welcome to follow him on Instagram (@chef_mbombi).
4. Groentoer Petrusburg spuds
“The significance of this day cannot be understated. This is where we – various industry stakeholders – come together to network, get front-row seats of planted potato trials, and learn from each other. It is events such as these that enrich our industry,” says Herman Haak, Regional Manager at Potatoes South Africa at the Groentoer Petrusburg held on 18 November 2021 in Free State.
Potato Nation, the consumer centred marketing arm of the organization was there to raise the banner for South Africa potato farmers. The exhibitions were well received, with attendees coming closer for a deeper look. “As a farmer, I am privileged to have the opportunity to be part of this event. Farming is something enriching that I truly enjoy. I hope that Potatoes South Africa will grow from strength to strength in advancing the potato industry forward,” concludes Johan Odendal.
5. Competition winners!
Five winners were selected for Potato Nation’s @AmazambaneAyavaya competition (from Facebook and Instagram) at the end of 2021. Each entrant needed to “townshiparise” the goodness of potatoes in 2 word” to stand a chance to #WIN a share of R5,000 for the week! Yes, you heard right, each winner won a spudnificant R1,000 every day!
The competition winners are:
@SizweKunene8, @SMalandela_, @LeeM400, @Dee_Hubs and Tshegofatso Stone.
6. WIN a QR Code for your potato bag!
Attention all Potato Producers: Scan this QR code and stand a chance to WIN a free QR code for your 10KG pocket! Potatoes South Africa will design the QR code, register the QR code and make sure it forms part of your packaging plate on all your 10 kg bags!
True to its name, a Quick Response code (better known as a QR code), is a type of barcode that is easily accessible and deciphered by digital devices to gain access to stored information, websites and/or data.
By using QR codes, recipes, nutritional information, produce origins, competitions, drives and outreaches can be shared with consumers in an instant and cost-effective manner. Best of all, it is not only the consumers that are positioned to benefit, but also potato producers – and winning a QR code for your potato bag has never been easier.
7. Featured Recipes
We look forward to staying in touch with you and hope that you will continue to connect with us on our website, via email and on social media.