Business

Small-scale farmers can play an important role in developing sustainable food systems that ensure both food security and the health of the planet. Marinda Louw Coetzee reports on how these producers can and should implement regenerative agricultural practices on their farms.

Dr Idan Chiyanzu, Primrose Magama, Siyabonga Gasa and Erence Manyako, researchers at the Agricultural Research Council’s Natural Resources and Engineering Division, offer some advice to farmers on how they can minimise the effects of energy insecurity and the rising cost of electricity in South Africa.

How can farmers ensure that the seed they buy is from a trusted source and conforms to a set standard? Magda du Toit spoke to Kobus van Huyssteen, acting technical manager at the South African National Seed Organization, to find out more about the information on seed labels and what it means.

Stephan & Seun Farming in the Western Cape is ambitious and technologically driven. Their potato cultivation leans heavily on irrigation, and Agrico has been their trusted supplier for decades.

Marietjie Kruger of Heidelberg grows and sells fresh mushrooms and processed food in Gauteng. She spoke to Annelie Coleman about the complex growing process that is required before harvesting.

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Thanks to a financial boost from various public and private entities, the Majeje Citrus company will be able to fully participate in one of South Africa’s most important agricultural industries within the next five years.

The South African agricultural sector offers enormous potential. The vast landscapes, fertile soil and remarkable weather systems provide opportunities for growth and economic transformation. However, there are challenges that are restraining growth, including limited productivity, lack of investment and poorly maintained infrastructure.

Community-owned Springfontein Dairy has grown from a small concern with 150 cows to a commercial enterprise with more than four times as many animals and a higher milk yield than the regional average. On a media trip hosted by Nestlé, Glenneis Kriel spoke to the people who have played a role in the farm’s success.

Afrika Tikkun Foundation’s Agriprenuership Programme is offering youth a head-start in agriculture and related skills to boost South Africa’s food production potential, make the country more food secure and create much-needed employment.

While farmers in Sudan are facing economic hardships, the country’s groundnut production remains a significant foreign-exchange earner. Janine Ryan reports.

Kobus se Kwekery in Oudtshoorn won Klein Karoo Seed Production’s award for the best emerging agricultural business in both 2017 and 2020. Yolandi Leen, who co-owns the nursery with her husband Kobus, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about their journey to success and the market they serve.