Dirk Odendaal receives CFU Farming Oscar Award 2025

The Commercial Farmers' Union has announced Dirk Odendaal as the recipient of the 2025 Farming Oscar Award, recognising his outstanding service to Zimbabwe's agricultural sector spanning over four decades.

The Zimbabwean Farming Oscar Award, with its distinguished 64-year history since its introduction in 1961, continues to honour individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service to agriculture. Established by the late CG Tracy during his tenure as CFU Vice President, the award recognises "those who have given outstanding service to agriculture" and their communities.

A lifetime of agricultural leadership

Born in Harare on January 29, 1949, Odendaal's journey began in Gutu, where he attended Gert Nel Junior School before proceeding to Fort Victoria High School. His agricultural career commenced in 1968 as a government marketing and cooperative officer, a position he held until 1980, laying the foundation for his deep understanding of Zimbabwe's farming sector.

Odendaal's commitment to rural development is evidenced by his remarkable 25-year tenure as a Rural District Councillor from 1976, during which he served as Finance Chairman. His rise as a farmers' advocate began in the early 1980s when the Gutu Chatsworth Farmers Association elected him to represent cattle producers in Masvingo.

Transforming cattle production

Under Odendaal's leadership as chairman of the Masvingo Cattle Producers Association, the Gutu Chatsworth District achieved EU-certified export zone status, a significant milestone later expanded to encompass the broader Masvingo District. This achievement demonstrated his ability to elevate local farming standards to international levels.

His dedication to the cattle industry deepened through his roles as Vice Chairman (2000–2001) and Chairman (2002–2003) of the Cattle Producers Association (CPA). During his council service, he actively participated in numerous committees, including LIT and LMAC, while championing equitable pricing through the Price Equalisation Fund to ensure parity for Red Zone Areas.

Industry innovation and collaboration

One of Odendaal's most significant contributions came during his CPA chairmanship when he collaborated with Allan Stockhill to establish Valcon at the request of then-CFU President Colin Cloete. This groundbreaking initiative unified farm registrations, streamlining administrative processes for the agricultural sector.

His expertise has been recognised at the highest levels, including a 2002 parliamentary summons to testify on Zimbabwe's beef industry future, followed by an invitation to a prestigious post-Parliament luncheon at the Sheraton Hotel.

Brahman breeding excellence

A registered Brahman breeder since 1980, Odendaal has served multiple terms as president of the Brahman Breeders Association, a position he currently holds. His industry influence was highlighted by his third-place finish in the 1991 Cattle Man of the Year competition, underscoring his reputation among peers.

Community service

Beyond his agricultural achievements, Odendaal has demonstrated unwavering commitment to community service. His humanitarian efforts have included coordinating maize donations for Gutu's commercial communities and working with Masvingo leaders and MPs post-1992 to revitalise communal area livestock populations.

His expertise has extended to various industry bodies, including two decades of service on the Art Farm Board of Management and involvement with the Agricultural Labour Bureau and Foot and Mouth Disease committees.

Personal life and faith

Odendaal's achievements extend beyond agriculture. During his school years, he won the Middle Boys Victor Ludorum and excelled in rugby, earning selection for the Midlands School team and the Midlands/Matabeleland Combined Schools team. He further represented Rhodesia's Under-20 rugby team in 1968.

In 1976, he married Margo Robertson, and together they raised three sons: Cornelius, Henry, and Dirkie. A devoted Christian, Odendaal currently chairs the Dutch Reformed Presbytery of Zimbabwe, demonstrating his commitment to balancing faith with farming excellence.

Legacy of service

Throughout his career, Odendaal has embodied integrity, resilience, and unwavering dedication to both his community and Zimbabwe's agricultural sector. His leadership combines vision with practicality, consistently turning challenges into opportunities while inspiring others in the industry.

The CFU Farming Oscar Award recognises not only his professional achievements but also the character that made them possible. From boardrooms to fields to his church, Odendaal has demonstrated an unshakeable commitment to service, leaving a legacy of compassion, innovation, and unwavering principle.

As Zimbabwe's agricultural sector continues to evolve, the recognition of leaders like Dirk Odendaal serves as both inspiration and reminder of the dedication required to advance farming excellence. His four decades of service stand as testament to the impact one individual can have on an entire industry and the communities it serves.

“The Commercial Farmers' Union's decision to honour Odendaal with this prestigious award reflects his exceptional contribution to Zimbabwe's agricultural heritage and his ongoing commitment to the sector's future development.”

Picture credits: Lorna Joubert, Christine Hawgood