Good weather set to attract many visitors to Nampo
South Africa’s biggest and most popular agricultural show is set to deliver on all fronts this year as the weather plays its part to ease access. Nampo kicks off on Tuesday, 14 May in Bothaville, Free State, ending on Friday, 17 May.
SAFDA becomes a permanent member of the sugar industry
In a significant turn for the South African sugar industry, the South African Farmers’ Development Association (SAFDA) has become a permanent member of the sugar industry.
Private initiative to combat stock theft expanded
Stock theft in the Free State is increasingly growing into a finely planned and sophisticated crime, according to Peet Swanepoel, the provincial coordinator of the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSIRA).
Emfuleni municipal manager in hot water over sewage spillage
The large-scale spillage of sewage, amongst other things, into the Vaal River has led to AfriForum laying criminal charges against April Ntuli, the municipal manager of the Emfuleni Local Municipality.
Farmers urged to update animal health programmes for winter
Now is the time for livestock farmers to sit down with their veterinarians to update their animal health and biosecurity programmes in preparation for winter, Dr Faffa Malan warned in a letter accompanying the latest animal disease report of the Ruminant Veterinary Association of South Africa (RuVASA).
Positive feedback for South Africa’s new Climate Change Bill
The Energy Council of South Africa welcomed the recent passing of the Climate Change Bill (B9B-2022) by the Parliament of South Africa.
Foot-and-mouth outbreak in Eastern Cape
Steps have been taken to prevent the spread of foot and mouth, a highly contagious viral disease, from an affected Eastern Cape farm to surrounding areas.
Drop in diesel price welcomed
While petrol will see an increase this month, a welcomed drop in diesel prices might provide some comfort for farmers.
No ‘quick buck’ but dragon fruit is on a steady rise
The dragon fruit industry continues to grow from strength to strength as farmers report a better season in 2024 off the back of good yields and prices.
Poor quality silage threatens animal health
When silage is bad, it can negatively affect feed intake, immunity, growth and reproduction of ruminants. Richardt Venter gave these tips to gauge and manage the quality of silage.
Boer goat ram ‘Formula One’ sold for over R1 million
The Boer goat stud sire Formula One was recently sold for R1,05 million, the highest price ever paid in South Africa for a stud goat.
Directive issued to promote welfare of animals in transit
In an effort to ensure the welfare of animals entering and leaving South Africa through the various ports, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (agriculture department) has implemented a directive regarding live animal import and export.
NAMPO aims to connect farmers and visitors again
With technology already playing an important role in the South African agriculture sector, the theme for NAMPO 2024, ‘Agriculture in a Digital Age’, is fitting to support the sector as it continues to transform in order to meet ever-changing challenges.
Pioneering carrot producer Vito Rugani mourned
Leading South African carrot producer Vito Rugani (64) passed away on Monday. Rugani was the co-owner of Greenway Farms in partnership with Vincent Sequeira.
Congress discusses improving mental health in veterinary industry
The importance of mental health and ways to build resilience among veterinary practitioners were key topics at the World Veterinary Association Congress, held from 16 to 18 April in Cape Town.
Maize theft in Free State raises serious concern
The large-scale theft of maize in the Free State is being carried out by highly organised crime syndicates, resulting in severe losses for maize producers so far this year. This is according to Dr Jane Buys, Free State Agriculture’s (FSA) safety risk analyst.
Citrus export season shows promising growth
The 2024 citrus export season is underway, and early forecasts indicate a notable uptick in export volumes. The Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa (CGA) unveiled these projections at a recent Citrus Marketing Forum.
Heavy rains bring damage, but also relief
The intense low-pressure system, known as a cut-off low, that resulted in wind damage and flooding in parts of the Western Cape has bought welcome relief to most farmers across the country.
Stellenbosch farmers bear the brunt of the storm
The Western Cape has been struck by disaster as strong winds sent fires blazing, roofs crashing in and wine cellars destroyed over the weekend.
Electricity price hike hits farmers and consumers hard
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) approved a 12,74% tariff increase, which came into effect on 1 April for direct Eskom customers, to address the financial challenges faced by the power provider.
