Evolution of nematicide technology at a glance
Dr Driekie Fourie, Syngenta Seedcare product biologist for Africa and the Middle East, told the recent 25th Nematological Society of Southern Africa Symposium near Malelane, Mpumalanga, that nematicides have come a long way since their introduction in the mid-19th century.
No confirmed cases of pesticide resistance in tomato leaf miner
The tomato leaf miner moth is becoming increasingly challenging for tomato farmers to combat. However, CropLife SA says that although some pesticide applications have been ineffective, the pest has not yet shown resistance to any active ingredients.
Landmark publication marks a century of pig stud breeding
Following its annual general meeting on 25 September, the Pig Breeders’ Society of South Africa marked a century of stud breeding by launching its commemorative book, Pig Breeders’ Society of South Africa 1919–2019: 100 Years of Pig Stud Breeding.
Young working dog takes National Sheepdog Championship title
In a nail-biting finish at the South African National Sheepdog Championship, held from 19 to 21 September near Buffeljagsrivier in the Southern Cape, Yvan Fourie and his dog Wimpie claimed their first national crown.
Privatisation of SA ports will promote productivity
A South African study has found that ports in Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Morocco, and even the tiny nation Togo in West Africa have transformed from slow, congested, government-managed ports into globally competitive systems after privatisation.
Forecast climatic conditions highlight need for crop insurance
Agricultural production is increasingly affected by changing climate patterns, with experts observing that rainfall and temperature shifts are becoming more unpredictable.
Investors in Namibia’s blueberry industry aim for the big leagues
Namibia’s blueberry industry aims to emulate Peru, the world’s fastest-growing blueberry producer, in its quest to scale up its own production.
Have your say in new stock theft study
A newly approved national study aims to investigate the role that community engagement plays in preventing livestock theft.
Small-scale farmers put electric tractors to the test in pilot project
Researchers from Michigan State University in the US recently demonstrated a new electric tractor, which has been in development for more than two years, to a group of local farmers.
Warming climate poses threat to blueberry producers around the world
Climate change emerged as a significant factor in the future development of blueberry production at last week’s International Blueberry Organisation summit held in Cape Town, Western Cape.
Bumper potato harvest drives SA market oversupply
The South African potato industry is seeing a sharp drop in prices after a bumper harvest. Expanded plantings, good rainfall, and a mild winter have led to strong yields across the country.
Yield records broken in the Grow for Gold competition
A wider choice of improved cultivars, along with adapted production and field management practices, is contributing to higher grain yields, greater profitability, and a more sustainable grain production industry in South Africa.
‘All farmers must prioritise water-use compliance’ – DWS
During the Agri 5 Expo in East London, Lizna Fourie, assistant director of the Department of Water and Sanitation, emphasised the need for farmers to comply with the National Water Act and adopt responsible water-use practices.
Record-breaking carcass auction and family triumph at Lamb Champs Boland
The Lamb Champs Boland 2025, held on Heritage Day at Hoër Landbouskool Boland in Paarl, Western Cape, delivered history-making moments for South Africa’s sheep industry.
APAC highlights need for transparency in agricultural marketing
The Agricultural Produce Agents Council used its platform at the 12th Agri 5 Expo, which opened today and runs until tomorrow at the Buffalo Club in East London, Eastern Cape, to stress the importance of fair and transparent practices in agricultural marketing.
Exports and destinations for SA blueberries expand
It is a testament to the strength and adaptability of the local blueberry industry that exports grew by 7% this past year, despite up to 70% of the country’s early cultivars being wiped out by black frost in the Groblersdal region.
Learners gain practical skills through EduPlant programme
In Diepkloof, Soweto, the Philip Kushlick School for learners with special needs recently highlighted how the EduPlant School Gardening and Nutrition Programme is benefitting the school and the wider community during a site visit to their food garden on Friday, 12 September.
Patensie songbird wins Agri’s Got Talent 2025
Twenty-five-year-old Jenedine Jantjies from Patensie in the Eastern Cape was crowned the winner of this year’s Agri’s Got Talent competition after moving judges and audiences alike with her heartfelt renditions of ‘This is Me’ and ‘One and Only’.
Royal Agricultural Show finds new home after two difficult years
The Royal Agricultural Society of KwaZulu-Natal has confirmed that the much-loved and anticipated Royal Agricultural Show will return in 2026 at a new venue, following a challenging two years.
Piet de Jager steps in as new CEO of Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum
A smooth leadership transition over the next few months is the main aim as Piet de Jager, who took over from Anton Kruger as CEO of the Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum (FPEF), settles into the role.
