Dr Siphe Zantsi

Agricultural Scientist | Visionary Researcher | Senior Economist

Born and raised in the village of Jojweni/Ndabakazi in Butterworth, Eastern Cape, Dr Siphe Zantsi's journey from humble beginnings to international research excellence is nothing short of inspiring. His passion for agriculture and science was nurtured from a young age, leading him through an impressive academic and professional path.

He completed his schooling at Canningham Senior Secondary School and went on to earn his undergraduate through master's degrees at the prestigious University of Fort Hare. His academic journey continued at Stellenbosch University, where he obtained his PhD, solidifying his expertise in agricultural science.

Dr Zantsi's research career took him to Switzerland, where he served as a postdoctoral researcher at Agroscope for three years. Upon returning to South Africa, he continued to contribute to the academic world as a postdoc at the University of Johannesburg and later as a lecturer at his alma mater, the University of Fort Hare.

Today, Dr Zantsi serves as a Senior Economist at the Agricultural Research Council in Pretoria and also contributes to academia as a Research Fellow at the University of the Free State. His work focuses on agricultural economics, policy, and rural development—championing innovation, knowledge sharing, and sustainable growth.

The Dr Siphe Zantsi Foundation is a celebration of his enduring dedication to science, education, and community upliftment. It carries forward his dream of using research not just for publication, but for real transformation—where every insight makes a difference, and every seed of knowledge grows into lasting impact.

For Dr Zantsi, agricultural research is more than a career—it is his shining light, his fuel, and the very thing that keeps him going. His life's work stands as a reminder that science, when rooted in purpose, can illuminate the path for generations to come.