Technology

Few names in high-horsepower agriculture carry the legacy of the Case IH Steiger range. From the early 91 and 93 series tractors to today’s advanced four-wheel-drive giants, the Steiger name has become synonymous with traction, brute pulling power, and ongoing engineering refinement.

New Holland launched its T4F S speciality tractor range at Nampo 2026 in Bothaville, Free State, introducing a purpose-built solution for orchard, vineyard, and vegetable producers looking for a compact yet versatile machine.

Jedrie Harmse put the QJMOTOR SRT 900 SX bike through its paces on both tar and gravel to discover exactly what this tough adventure tourer is actually capable of.

John Deere is positioning its updated 6M tractor range as a versatile, technology-ready workhorse aimed at bridging the gap between basic utility tractors and the company’s premium 6R series.

The new Case IH 475 High-Speed Disc is built around a simple principle: high-speed, heavy-duty construction and efficient field performance that helps farmers save time during critical operations.

Efficient material handling is essential on today’s farms, whether moving feed, stacking hay bales, loading manure, or transporting bulk materials. Magni’s new THA agricultural telehandler range is specifically designed to meet these demands, combining power, versatility, and operator comfort.

Chinese manufacturer GAC recently upped its striking Emzoom crossover SUV range to five variants with the addition of the new Nova grade. The Citizen’s Charl Bosch reports.

Bigger implements, tighter planting windows, and growing efficiency demands are shaping the evolution of high-horsepower tractors. At Nampo 2026, manufacturers displayed more powerful, fuel-efficient machines with smarter technology. Farmer’s Weekly has rounded up 10 standout models from 200kW upwards, in alphabetical order.

As industrial boilers across South Africa age, food manufacturers are racing to modernise their infrastructure and operational expertise, says boiler operations and maintenance specialist Associated Energy Services.

Brazilian agricultural machinery manufacturer Stara is strengthening its direct presence in South Africa, shifting from an importer-led model to local dealer support while introducing precision farming technology and machines tailored specifically to local conditions.

Motorcycles operate in harsh, unpredictable environments, and even well-maintained machines can develop issues. Jedrie Harmse offers some advice.

Mechanisation is entering a new phase on farms, defined by smarter, connected systems. From precision planting and targeted spraying to artificial intelligence and autonomous equipment, the tools shaping the sector in 2026 are changing not only how work is done but how decisions are made.

Mitsubishi’s local introduction of the Destinator could be considered a strategic move by the Japanese carmaker, writes The Citizen’s Jaco van der Merwe.

Case IH’s latest Magnum range builds on decades of high-horsepower tractor development, combining increased power outputs with improved fuel efficiency, precision technology, and operator comfort.

John Deere has introduced its new-generation F-Series self-propelled forage harvesters to the global market, with the machines aimed specifically at large dairy operations and silage contractors seeking higher throughput, lower fuel consumption, and improved forage quality.

At the Shell South Africa thought leadership session held during Nampo 2026 in Bothaville, Free State, earlier this month, rising fuel costs, equipment efficiency, and machinery reliability were central to discussions on keeping farms productive.

Chinese equipment manufacturer Zoomlion is expanding its South African footprint beyond construction and mining machinery into agricultural equipment, aiming to offer first-world technology at significantly lower prices than those of established brands.

Case IH introduced its new Axial-Flow 9 (AF9) combine harvester during a media briefing at Nampo 2026 in Bothaville, Free State, where the machine attracted considerable attention for its combination of high-capacity harvesting, advanced automation, and redesigned engineering.

Foton South Africa unveiled its new Miler Lite range and Auman 560 6x4 Prime Mover at Nampo Harvest Day 2026 in Bothaville, Free State. The launch added light- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles for transport and agricultural use, reflecting the growing presence of Chinese truck brands in South Africa.

Just as livestock farmers must manage herd health and nutrition, so must beekeepers nurture their bees to keep them in top shape. Lindi Botha reports on how beekeepers can ensure optimally productive hives.