South African activist Petrus Phakamile Sitho has gained attention for walking hundreds of kilometres across the country to raise awareness about farm attacks and murders.
Sitho, who has more than 160,000 Facebook followers, reportedly left his well-paying job in 2018 to dedicate himself to advocating for the safety of farmers and farm workers.
According to The South African, his activism has included long-distance walks, demonstrations outside government buildings and interviews with survivors of farm attacks.
Walking hundreds of kilometres for farmers
Sitho grew up on a farm in Bultfontein in the Free State, where his parents still live.
In 2021, he began a journey of more than 1,000 kilometres from East London towards the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
He completed another long-distance campaign in 2026, passing through Bloemfontein in July. More recently, he walked 129 kilometres between Frankfort and Memel.
During his demonstrations, Sitho often carries a white cross to draw attention to farm murders.
He has also travelled in a vehicle displaying the message “Stop Farm Murders”.
Activism comes with challenges
Sitho claims his campaigning has resulted in death threats and physical violence.
He reported being assaulted while camping outside the Union Buildings in 2018.
His activism has also attracted criticism.
In August 2026, he requested public donations to fund a trip to the United States, where he hoped to take his message to President Donald Trump.
The appeal received mixed reactions online.
Recent farm attack sparks outrage
Sitho’s campaign received renewed attention following the attack on North West farmer Donovan Marx on 28 October.
Marx was shot, stabbed and mutilated during an attack near Ventersdorp.
Police arrested five suspects in connection with the incident. Four appeared in court on 3 November.
Following the attack, Sitho criticised President Cyril Ramaphosa, accusing the government of failing to address violence against farming communities.
Farm attacks remain a concern
Official statistics show differing figures for farm-related violence.
South African police recorded one farm murder between April and June 2026, compared with six during the same period in 2025.
Meanwhile, AfriForum recorded 184 farm attacks and 29 farm murder victims throughout 2025.
Despite the debate surrounding the figures, Sitho continues campaigning for greater protection for farmers and farm workers across South Africa.
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