Technology

It’s hard to believe there was once a gap in the van segment between plush people movers and cargo carriers, yet the Ford Transit Custom Sport has plugged that gap, writes The Citizen’s Jaco van der Merwe.

Since 1975, New Holland’s Twin Rotor harvesters have led the market in terms of power efficiency, capacity, and grain and straw quality.

The Corolla Cross is the best-selling SUV in South Africa, but it faces growing competition from the influx of SUVs from China. To make sure it stays ahead of the pack, Toyota has introduced a range of updates to the facelifted model, writes Jaco van der Merwe.

Using the right combination of machinery and implements can help a wheat farmer improve yields and lower costs. Magda du Toit spoke to André Olwagen, strategic marketing manager and product portfolio manager at Case IH.

Most homeowners want a lush, well-manicured lawn. Not only does it add to the beauty and aesthetics of your overall garden, but it also creates a wonderful setting for outdoor activities with the kids or leisurely enjoying outdoor lunches with family and friends.

Namibia is experiencing its worst drought in 100 years. Annelie Coleman spoke to several farmers in the Mariental district, who shared their experience of the impact of several rainless years.

A high number of livestock are being stolen every year in South Africa. Insurance is expensive and farmers are battling to find solutions to the problem, says Dr Lindie von Maltitz, agricultural economics lecturer in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at the University of the Free State.

The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) and the University of the Western Cape recently hosted an inaugural research symposium with the theme ‘Healing through food’. Dr Reckson Mulidzi, manager of the soil and water science research team at the ARC, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the event and the partnership.

Bee-Tech Group is transforming South African agriculture with pollination technologies that boost crop yields and enhance sustainability. Founder Michiel Bruggeman spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel.

By building soil carbon levels, farmers can improve the resilience of their crops, reduce the use of chemical pesticides and fertiliser, and buffer their crops against extreme weather.

The GWM Tank 300 HEV, a feature-packed hybrid SUV, brings impressive fuel efficiency, safety, and off-road capability - setting a new standard for the future of SUVs.

Grassland restoration is crucial for ecosystem health. Frits van Oudtshoorn, a pasture consultant and agricultural/environmental trainer, spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel about effective methods, key challenges, and the role of native plants and proper grazing management in successful restoration projects.

Battery energy storage system solutions enable farmers and agro-processors to store excess solar energy generated during the day and use it during peak demand periods, when electricity prices are higher.

A movement strengthening relationships between communities and the land and promoting a mutually beneficial relationship between agriculture, health and the environment is emerging in sustainable farming. Ntokozo Zitha, a PhD student in the Economics Analysis Unit at the Agricultural Research Council, writes.

Dr George Craven of Noorspoort, Steytlerville, in the south-eastern Karoo, is successfully using a home-built ‘bedstead seeder’ to re-establish veld plants in an arid area, writes Roelof Bezuidenhout.

Bruce Hart of SOS Contractors explains how Husqvarna’s high-volume water pumps can be used to safeguard forests and tackle fire emergencies.

Regular and thorough cleaning of solar panels is vital to get the best from your solar system, and to comply with warranty requirements. When dust, leaves and bird droppings accumulate on the panels, it can limit how much light is absorbed, reducing your solar system’s performance by up to 25%. With STIHL, this essential task is made faster, easier and more effective.

By investing in renewable energy, farmers can meet carbon standards and secure their place in global markets.

Dr Louis du Pisani shed light on why biodiversity is important, and its impact on soil, plant and animal health at the World Veterinary Association Congress held in Cape Town.

Efficiency and productivity are key to successful livestock farming, and having the right equipment is essential. John Deere loaders, including the 520M, 540M and H310 models, are specifically designed to meet the demands of livestock farms.