Desert cattle operation reaps rewards of regenerative agriculture
Kalahari farmer Willie Storm has used regenerative agriculture practices to improve his cattle stocking capacity from the area norm of around 21ha per large stock unit (LSU) to 5ha/LSU.
Afrikaner – a hardy breed making its mark in feedlots
The Afrikaner cattle breed is prized for its indigenous hardiness, natural resistance, high fertility and ease of calving. Sabrina Dean found out more about the breed from Julian Balt, who...
The financial realities of showing livestock
Despite rising costs and stricter disease control, Moorreesburg stud breeder Franco Koch of Kochbo Santas believes livestock shows remain an essential part of South Africa’s stud industry.
Nguni: the legacy of the land
In South Africa’s diverse and often unforgiving landscapes, one cattle breed continues to prove its worth: the Nguni. Known for its adaptability, resilience, and cultural heritage, the breed has stood...
CRE Brahmans: where structure meets performance
Since its inception in 2004, the CRE Brahmans stud’s motto has been ‘performance meats integrity’. Studmaster Ampie Rossouw told Annelie Coleman that one of the cornerstones of the operation is...
Thinking of farming Afrikaners? Here’s what you should know
Free State cattle farmer Jannie Visagie spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel about the resilience, adaptability, and economic benefits of the Afrikaner cattle breed. He shares valuable insights and practical advice...
New Boran stud off to a great start in Western Cape
The Olifantsberg Boran stud may only have been established three years ago, but it’s already showing promise of becoming a name to watch in the industry. Farm managers Johan Geldenhuys...
The unmatched hybrid vigour of the Boran
Known as the mother cow of Africa, the Boran has been developed over more than 1 000 years to provide modern farmers with a hardy, cost-effective animal. Sabrina Dean spoke...
Joshlin Simbra Stud: Small herd, strong genetics, big results
At the 2024 Champion of the World Competition, the top Simbra cow and third-placed bull came from the Joshlin Simbra stud, located near Komga in the Eastern Cape. Mike Burgess...
Chianina cattle: the gentle white giants giving high meat yield and quality
Looking for a breed to maximise returns on animals and land? Garren Coetzee, who runs a Chianina stud near Uniondale in the Western Cape, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about why...
AgriCulture Mpumalanga’s 2025 young farmer talks challenges, hope, growth
AgriCulture Mpumalanga’s Young Farmer of the Year 2025, Hendy-Hein Mathews, does not mince his words when it comes to the challenges the youth face in the agriculture sector. But he...
Senepols: low-maintenance, high-performance cattle
In 2024, Blackpool Senepol sold a bull for a new South African record price of R165 000. Owner Chris Sheard spoke to Mike Burgess about how he built a stud...
Boran: the ideal choice for the commercial farming sector
The Boran is renowned for its ability to maintain body condition despite extreme weather and difficult circumstances.
‘The Beefmaster is a smart investment’
According to Guy Rensburg, the Beefmaster is a good investment due to its ability to thrive under harsh conditions.
‘Chianina: the feedlot industry’s dream’
With its outstanding feed conversion rates and high dressing percentages, the Chianina is the ideal breed for feedlots and beef production.
Senepol: a genetically unique beef powerhouse
Since its arrival in South Africa in 2001, the Senepol has become a strong contender in the country’s beef cattle arena. Tiekie Muller, owner of the Nooitgedacht Senepol stud, spoke...
How to consistently breed the best cattle
John and Tracey Devonport, owners of the Devlan Limousin stud, offer some important information for farmers hoping to embark on a journey of stud breeding.
‘Dexters carry us through the drought’
The Helmeringhausen Farmers’ Association’s Dexter cattle project was honoured by the Namibia Agricultural Union as the 2024 NAU-Feedmaster Community Project of the Year. Association chairperson Jörg Gaugler spoke to Annelie...
Paving the way for a greener dairy industry
The dairy industry is often criticised for its environmental impact, but a new innovation called DESTiny aims to empower farmers to take control of their carbon footprints. Riana Reinecke, the...
Healthy soil means healthy cattle
Healthy soil plays an important role in cattle health and production. Dr Jan Myburgh from the Department of Paraclinical Sciences in the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Veterinary Science spoke...
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