Jeandre Du Preez

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has announced an additional 10% water restriction on agricultural water use that will remain in force until dam levels reach 85% of capacity.

Tropical cyclone Dineo, which is expected to hit South Africa later today, has weakened significantly and has been downgraded to a tropical depression.

The strike at one of South Africa’s well known wineries is still underway after an attempt by the CCMA to conciliate the wage dispute was unsuccessful.

According to the latest statistics, stock theft across the country declined with 1%, while the Western Cape saw a 3,6% increase.

Jacques Beukes is a table grape farmer in the Western Cape, and is always searching for new ways in which to expand and improve his business. Since joining the family farm in 2006, the operation has shifted from seeded to seedless grapes, and turnover has increased by 900%.

During a recent presentation in parliament, Agri SA legal advisor Annelize Crosby said that commercial farmers in drought-stricken provinces had reported no or very little support from government departments.

The deciduous fruit industry recently honoured seven top achievers who have contributed significantly to the success of the industry.

The journey of Themba Trees Tree Farm near Grabouw started in her backyard, says Caroline de Villiers, the Western Cape department of agriculture’s Top Commercial Female Entrepreneur for 2016. Today, the 12ha wholesale tree farm boasts more than 50 000 indigenous and ornamental trees.