The uphill battle of a communal sheep farmer
Zolani Tsheko, the second vice-chairperson of the National Wool Growers’ Association, is a wool producer in the communal area of Thornhill near Queenstown in the Eastern Cape. Mike Burgess recently...
Why soya deserves a bigger place on people’s plates
In an ocean of pricey superfoods, soya stands out as being so cheap that its value is often downplayed. Used predominantly for animal feed, soya beans for human consumption faces...
Financial solutions for agricultural business owners
We all know there are no short cuts to success and anything worthwhile requires a lot of effort, commitment and determination. That is why you take very good care with...
The year that was for agriculture and what to expect in 2024
The year 2023 has, in many ways, been a year of consolidation and recovery, particularly for exports. And while there has been some easing of input costs, many challenges and...
Rusks: A homemade success story
Almost two decades ago, Heather van Zyl began baking rusks in her kitchen for neighbours and friends. Today she sells 60t across five provinces. Mike Burgess visited her recently on...
Cheaper, crowdfunded solar energy for farmers
Sun Exchange uses crowdfunding to help schools, farms and other organisations switch to solar power. Abe Cambridge, the founder of Sun Exchange, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about this solution.
Growing gerberas in a volatile market
Florist Carol Sutherland spoke to Tania Henkel, who runs Imbali Cut Flowers in Gauteng, about the challenges of producing gerberas, also known as Barberton daisies.
The clear business case for sustainable agriculture
Sustainability is not only about humanity adapting to changes and finding ways to fulfil the needs of current generations without compromising the needs of future generations; it also provides significant...
A thriving empowerment agri project on the KZN South Coast
Started in 2008 to help ensure food security for a charity, the Siyavuna programme has expanded to focus on farming, training and growing its value chains.
Award-winning gin from Namibia’s dry interior
The innovative Naute Kristall Distillery is situated near Keetmanshoop in Namibia’s arid southern region. Established by Michael and Katrin Weder, it has become renowned for its outstanding, prize-winning gin.
Helping unemployed graduates to find work
Armed with a degree and youthful vigour, many a graduate has faced the stark reality of being unable to secure a job despite their qualifications. Lindi Botha spoke to Jenny...
Nedbank empowers South Africa’s agricultural resilience
We’re stronger together – how collaborating with the right partners can help the agrisector thrive.
Leadership and vision ensure success for community company
Since 2000, the government has invested more than R74 million in the Blocuso community in the Northern Cape. Dirk Claassen, financial manager of the Blocuso company, spoke to Glenneis Kriel...
Diversification drives success of leading SA agri group
Despite having diversified into mining, construction, civil contracting, and heavy equipment hire, the ALS Group remains at heart a family farming business characterised by attention to detail, professionalism and integrity. Magda...
The pitfalls and benefits of diversifying your farming operation
Diversification enables farmers to spread risk and add additional income streams, but within the opportunities lie some hazards. Lindi Botha spoke to farmers who have successfully integrated their current operations...
New era for Orange River raisin producers
The Vine Academy and Model Farm were officially launched in May 2022 to improve the sustainability of raisin farmers. Ferdie Botha, CEO of Raisins SA, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about...
Opportunities await SA rabbit producers abroad
While rabbit production is relatively small in South Africa, there is great untapped export potential, should the industry meet its challenges head-on.
Empowering communities to cope with climate change
Local communities need to be part of the process of better understanding climate change adaptation. Moreover, supporting small green economies could assist in job creation for the community. An environmental...
How a dairy concern adds value to a diversified operation
With so many variables in the farming landscape, diversification is a useful strategy to hedge one’s risk and ensure a steady cash flow. However, managing multiple divisions comes with its...
Why Florida, US, has become a magnet for SA’s emigrant farmers
The US offers many top choices for South African farmers seeking to emigrate. Florida and Texas are traditionally two of the most popular states that South Africans choose to relocate...
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