A grey-haired Limpopo farmer caused a stir at the inaugural conference of the Congress of the People on Monday, saying joining Cope was a life-changing experience.

"I wonder what my wife is going to say," Piet Grobler, retired Thabazimbi farmer, said to ecstatic conference delegates.

Interim Cope chairperson Terror Lekota introduced Grobler, who is on holiday in Bloemfontein, to delegates.

Lekota said Grobler heard of Cope's conference in the city and searched for the Callie Human Hall at the University of the Free State to come and introduce himself.

"He is here, but he is not a delegate."

Lekota said Grobler was told to join Cope at his home town, but he refused, insisting to becoming a member on the spot.

"Mnr Lekota ek wil nou en hier (Mr Lekota, I want to join now and here)," Grobler said.

Standing next to Lekota at the podium Grobler said the greatest day of his life was when he received "The Lord, Jesus" in his heart.

"Except for that it's a great day in my life, I've just become a member of Cope, thank you," Grobler said while delegates cheered.

He said he had four sons, one working in Canada because he could not find work in South Africa, and three still working in the country.

Grobler said he became a Cope member for two reasons.

"Our policy about agriculture, to produce food, and secondly the way you intend handling affirmative action, which would not discriminate against anyone."

On receiving his conference bag and t-shirt from Lekota, Grobler was swamped by singing and dancing delegates on the conference floor.