Managing volatility in the agricultural market
Volatility has become the norm in agricultural markets. Nico Groenwald, head of agriculture at Standard Bank, advises how farmers can keep their heads above water in uncertain times.
The homesteading approach to sustainable lifestyle farming
In a world dominated by size and scale, Bruce and Alison Gilson have found ways to make their small Western Cape farm economically viable. Glenneis Kriel visited them.
AASA can benefit your agritourism business
The Association for Agritourism in South Africa unites farmers and potential tourists on its website.
Commercial success from ‘instant’ trees
The journey of Themba Trees Tree Farm near Grabouw started in her backyard, says Caroline de Villiers, the Western Cape department of agriculture’s Top Commercial Female Entrepreneur for 2016. Today, the 12ha wholesale tree farm boasts more than 50 000 indigenous and ornamental trees.
Young agripreneur links small-scale farmers to markets
Agribusiness entrepreneur, Leeko Makoene, has a grand vision for South Africa’s young farmers, but thinks a mindshift is needed to kick-start renewal in the sector. She explained to Wilma den Hartigh why the country needs more agribusinesses and fewer farming projects.
Agri insurance: why more and more farmers are opting out
The hefty losses suffered in the agricultural sector as a result of the drought has raised questions about the relevance of agricultural insurance in today’s farming environment. Wilma den Hartigh asked agricultural insurers how farmers should be mitigating risk in the future.
The essence of organic brandy production
Edmund Oettle, South Africa’s only organic brandy producer, explains that his farming approach is a life choice. He speaks to Jay Ferreira about his business operation near Wellington in the Western Cape.
Côte d’Ivoire – bringing out the best in cocoa production
Cocoa may be the main ingredient in one of the world’s favourite confectioneries, but its production has, at times, been plagued by scandal. Efforts are underway in Côte d’Ivoire and elsewhere to bring about ethical cocoa production, says Lloyd Phillips.
The sawmill that runs on wood gas power
With renewable energy becoming necessary, could wood gasification present a viable alternative?
Managing a farming business in financial distress
Your farming business is in a one-way financial cul de sac. What remedies do you have at your disposal to solve the problem? Johan Botha, an attorney specialising in insolvencies, and agricultural consultant, Pietman Botha, offer some advice.
Farmers to view agriculture as an investment vehicle – Standard Bank
It’s important to plan beyond the drought in a sector that will remain a driver of economic growth & social stability.
6 tactics to achieve successful sales at the market
Fresh produce markets are available to all producers. Yet using them optimally requires know-how.
