How biorefineries can add value to forestry waste
With South African forestry currently recovering an average of only 47% of its potential timber yield for economic benefit, the industry is ripe for the widespread adoption of value-adding biorefinery technology. Dr Bruce Sithole, director of the Forest and Forest Products Research Centre in KwaZulu-Natal, explains how.
A guide to trademarks, patents and plant breeders’ rights
The use of trademarks, patents and plant breeders’ rights can make an agricultural business more competitive locally and internationally. Gerhard Uys spoke to David Cochrane and Madelein Kleyn about the application processes involved and the implementation.
Beekeepers success with only 100 hives
Phirdy Motala, owner of Farmyard Honey Factory, says that innovation and creativity are crucial for the success of small-scale beekeepers. Her business approach has resulted in a flourishing operation, and she was recently nominated as the Western Cape finalist in the 2016 Agricultural Writers SA’s New Entrant to Commercial Agriculture competition.
Mooted sugar tax is bitter news for industry
The South African government has proposed a tax on all sugar-sweetened beverages sold in the country. Trix Trikam, executive director of the South African Sugar Association (SASA), shared the industry’s views on the subject with Lloyd Phillips.
Snail farming: making good use of a small space
Stanley and Heather Micallef began by growing snails in an open-air paddock. Earlier this year, they changed to a climate-controlled set-up, which has enabled them to increase production significantly. Snail farming can be a profitable enterprise for smallholders, they told Gerhard Uys.
Marketing to SA’s changing black middle-class consumers
Changes in consumers’ priorities, and the growth of South Africa’s black middle class, make it crucial for agribusinesses to re-evaluate their approach to food production, sales and marketing. Prof John Simpson spoke to Wilma den Hartigh about the importance of branding in this regard.
Mussel farming on the West Coast
Imbaza Mussels in Saldanha Bay is one of the country’s largest mussel farms and a successful empowerment project. The farm’s entire production is marketed in SA.
How to export your fresh produce into Asia and Africa
Africa and Asia offer much allure for South African fresh produce exporters. But this country’s farmers must do their homework well before they plunge into these markets. Wilma den Hartigh reports.
Was this the worst year ever for SA’s pork producers?
The recent drought has pushed the price of pig feed sky-high, and SA pork producers are reeling as a result. Unfortunately, it will be at least six months before conditions in the industry improve, according to the SA Pork Producers’ Association.
How a business investment became a farming passion
As new entrants to South Africa’s feedlot industry, entrepreneurial husband-and-wife team, Mochele and Rosemary Noge of Emfuleni Voerkrale, soon found that the key to success in this highly competitive business is efficiency, quality of livestock, and good quality infrastructure. Siyanda Sishuba visited the Noges on their farm in the eastern Free State.
From bankruptcy to national success for Western Cape dairy
Starting literally overnight and through necessity 25 years ago, the family company Darling Creamery now produces over 300 separate high-quality product lines – and is proof that success comes from putting people first. Jay Ferreira reports.
The tough business of flower production
After 80 years, the family business Engelke Blomme continues to produce outstanding flowers, despite a highly competitive market. Glenneis Kriel spoke Günther Engelke about their success.
