How Aquinetta Khanyile Built Esisipho K Into an Award-Winning Agri Business

Aquinetta Khanyile is proving that agriculture is not only about farming — it’s about leadership, sustainability, and creating lasting impact. As the founder of Esisipho K Pty Ltd, a female-owned agricultural enterprise based in KwaZulu-Natal, Khanyile has built a business that specializes in organic vegetable production and the supply of A-grade beef cattle meat to retail franchises across the province.
Her commitment to food security, community development, and sustainable agricultural practices recently earned Esisipho K the prestigious title of Overall Winner at the Standard Bank Inclusive Excellence Awards 2026.
In this exclusive sit-down interview, Aquinetta opens up about her entrepreneurial journey, the realities of running an agricultural business, and how she transformed her passion for farming into an award-winning enterprise inspiring the next generation of African entrepreneurs.



