Beware of the angry poor
High unemployment and empty promises from government have created a volatile population prone to violent protests.
Eastern Cape bamboo initiative up and running
A small co-operative, based near Stutterheim in the Eastern Cape, has been granted R2 million to develop a bamboo plantation.
Multibillion rand corruption confirmed
A forensic investigation commissioned by the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) confirmed corruption worth billions of rand in the vessel management contract awarded to Smit Amandla Marine (Sam).
Africa takes bigger bite out of apple exports
South African apple exports into Africa are growing at a faster rate than anticipated – and although exports to the UK are declining, SA will not readily relinquish this important...
Livestock producers welcome planned compulsory service for new vets
South Africa’s established and emerging red meat producers have applauded a recently tabled bill that, if approved, will make it compulsory for newly qualified vets and para-veterinary professionals to engage...
Higher SA maize yield puts prices under pressure
With over 1,1 million tons more maize expected from South Africa’s 2011/2012 crop than for the preceding season, local prices have been put under pressure.
Over R3,6 billion paid to farmers in 2011/2012
The recent increase in Joburg Market’s turnover in the 2011/2012 financial year means farmers who utilise the market to sell their produce received at total of R3,6 billion.
Algal blooms pose threat to agriculture
With summer ahead, the Department of Water Affairs (DWA) has warned of the high risk of excessive algal blooms and water hyacinth in a number of eutrophic and hyper-eutrophic dams.
GM health safety questioned
Claims by French researchers that genetically modified (GM) maize causes cancer have been refuted by the European Food Safety Authority (Efsa).
SA far from reaching biofuels target
Government recently announced the mandatory blending of biofuels with fossil fuels, saying that at least 5% of biodiesel had to be added to all regular diesel.
Fresh action taken to fill the gap in stock theft units
There are at least 92 vacancies in police stock theft units in KwaZulu-Natal alone.
WHO proposals threaten 10 000 SA tobacco jobs
The South African tobacco farming sector stands to lose about 10 000 jobs if the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) proposals are passed.
Joemat-Pettersson still on a ‘suspending’ spree
Agricultural minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson has caused ructions within her department by suspending two more staff members.
Farmers need more tariff support
Members of the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries expressed dismay at the perceived advantage farmers in trading countries have over South African farmers due to the subsidies and...
Hot branding of equines continues in SA
Despite hot branding of equines having largely been discontinued in Europe, the practice is still used by some horse owners in South Africa.
Farmers throw away ‘good’ food – Food Bank
Instead of farmers throwing away or destroying unmarketable produce, the food should be donated to the poor, said Mohamed Kajee, Food Bank South Africa managing director, at a meeting held...
SA’s dairy producers face a tough 12 months
Having to counteract the effects of high input costs and decreased milk prices means South Africa’s dairy farmers face a difficult 12 months
Land distribution targets in KZN surpassed – Kwanalu
According to the KwaZulu-Natal Agricultural Union’s recent audit, almost 49% of agricultural land in the province is in black hands. Robyn Joubert reports.
Price increases and Eurozone, US recession a threat to farmers – FNB
A rapidly growing world population and increasing demand for more protein and fresh products from India, China and some African countries should help to ensure good returns for farmers for...
