“Sir” Darryl Jacobs: A noble man of note

OOn 21 October 2022, a special recognition and award of Knight in the Ordre du Mérite agricole (Order of Agricultural Merit) was bestowed on Darryl Jacobs, the Deputy Director General for Agricultural Development and Support Services. To understand the man that is Monsieur Darryl Wayne Jacobs and his stride to excellence in public service, one must trace his footsteps and truly understand his journey and the values he holds dear.

A good upbringing

From humble beginnings, Darryl grew up on the Cape Flats in Athlone, Cape Town. From a very early age, Darryl recognised the importance of service to community and took a keen interest in topics of social relevance.

An inquisitive mind

Brought up in a family filled with educators, Darryl knew and appreciated the power of education and therefore has various qualifications under his belt, such as a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) in Business Management and various Public Service certificates.

Civil servant at heart

What has inspired him throughout his life is to always give his best, whatever the circumstances, always serving with compassion and humility. This is evident in the way in which he supported the agricultural

In his current portfolio, Darryl’s goal is to transform and expand the agricultural sector. “The agricultural sector remains positive despite all its challenges, such as climate change, economic instability, energy crisis. I remain confident that the agricultural sector is the only sector that has the potential to lift the country out of a sense of hopelessness,” said Darryl.

What excites him currently is his work, and that of the Department, involving rural communities, all of which he is truly passionate about. Facilitating training programmes to those in marginalised communities is extremely important to him. He was also particularly proud of the training provided to the inmates at the Department of Correctional Service. He believes in creating opportunities and inspire hope to marginalised and vulnerable communities. One such example where the Department was able to inspire hope was the approximately 250 jobs that were created in an area of high unemployment in the Kannaland municipal area through alien clearing projects.

If there ever was anyone deserving of a knighthood, it is Darryl Jacobs. We salute you. #ForTheLoveOfAgriculture AP