Jedrie Harmse
Jedrie Harmse started his career in 1985 in the agricultural sector as a magazine editor and is currently a freelance photo journalist for Farmers’ Weekly. He has over 30 years of experience across multiple disciplines in the publishing industry. “Though I didn’t intentionally choose agriculture, it seems to have chosen me — and I keep returning to it, drawn by the outdoors, the adventure, the stories, inspiring people, and endless opportunities for photography and writing.”
Dirt roads lead to freedom and adventure on two wheels
Through 4 Dual Adventure, former racing champion Jacque Tesselaar now teaches other riders how to leave the tar behind safely and confidently, and to negotiate the country’s dirt roads, writes Jedrie Harmse.
High praise for Die Krip Landboufees
Over the past five years, Die Krip Landboufees has grown into a fully-fledged agricultural festival in Magaliesburg, Gauteng. During the weekend of 4 and 5 September, the small, scenic town drew visitors to celebrate everything that makes South Africa’s farming spirit unique.
Tales of dodging a giant snake and sustenance on energy bars
A band of adventure motorcyclists set out to follow the Vaal River from its source to its end, relying on dirt roads, local knowledge, and an expedition philosophy that leaves little room for fixed plans.
Organised agriculture stands firmly behind farmers
South African farmers face mounting challenges, but they need not face them alone. At the recent Agri North West Annual Congress, under the poignant theme ‘Are we alone?’, speakers stressed the importance of organised agriculture, partnerships, and practical support.
Willie Aucamp admits past failures in emerging farmer support
At Nampo Cape, Agriculture Minister Willie Aucamp acknowledged failed government initiatives like agri-hubs, advocating for title deed transfers, skilled leadership, and strict due diligence to build profitable commercial farms.
Impressive on and off road – and surprisingly affordable
The CFMOTO 1000MT-X has quickly established itself as a serious contender in South Africa’s large-capacity adventure motorcycle market. Brand ambassador Henri du Toit joined Jedrie Harmse to find out whether its impressive specification and competitive price translate into real-world performance on tar and gravel.
Lekkewaan: electric workhorse built for modern farming
Lekkewaan’s compact electric utility vehicles are starting to gain popularity among South African farmers, but their real strengths start to emerge when put to the test on the farm, writes Jedrie Harmse.
Versatile electric vehicle delivers practical benefits at Vaalbos Trust
After seven years of daily service on a busy Limpopo farming operation, Lekkewaan’s compact electric utility vehicles have demonstrated that practicality, low running costs, and reliability can make a meaningful difference to modern agriculture. Citrus farmer Hennie de Beer spoke to Jedrie Harmse.
Merino sheep’s legacy to fund next generation of agricultural leaders
The remarkable story of Rico, the Merino sheep who got lost as a lamb and survived alone for seven years in the unforgiving Moordenaarskaroo, has taken a new turn with the launch of the Rico Bursary Fund, aimed at creating opportunities for deserving agricultural students.
The GS Challenge returns to its roots
The iconic GS Challenge returns in September 2026 at Mpumalanga’s Country Trax facility. Revived for the passionate riding community, the event promises scenic routes, camaraderie, and an unforgettable adventure weekend.
Foot-and-mouth disease high on the KragDag agenda
During a public panel discussion at KragDag 2026, held from 6 to 8 August near Rayton in Gauteng, panellists reflected on the lessons learnt from the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak and explored how to create an environment where farmers can operate with greater certainty and less state intervention.
KragDag continues to grow from strength to strength
Agriculture has become an increasingly prominent feature of KragDag, and this year’s expo was no exception, with agricultural exhibitions showcasing everything from precision farming technology and agricultural drones to livestock genetics, irrigation, and renewable-energy solutions.
Change your default mode to ‘safe’
Training helps riders replace instinctive panic reactions with safe, controlled responses, enabling them to tackle challenging terrain with confidence and reduce the risk of accidents.
Game takes centre stage at the Thabazimbi Show
The 70th Thabazimbi Agriculture and Industry Show was a hive of activity and a display of strong community spirit.
Proudly SA Local Wine Expo uncorks opportunities for emerging wine brands
The Proudly SA Local Wine Expo celebrated South African flavour, entrepreneurship, and homegrown excellence.
Where tractors can’t go, motorcycles get the job done
At Zunckel Farms, motorbikes are not just a convenience. For Egon Zunckel and his sons, the Husqvarna FE 350 is an essential farm tool.
Mastering gravel corners on a motorcycle
Keeping control of your motorcycle in rough terrain is not for the faint-hearted rider. Combined with poise, knowing how your bike will behave in most scenarios is just as important.
Sardine quota increase expected to offer socio-economic relief
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has increased the total allowable catch for sardines in fishing grounds west of Cape Agulhas by 6 000t, raising the overall annual allocation from 30 500t to 36 500t.
Deadline extended for 2026 SA Agri Awards
The closing date for entries into the 2026 South African Agricultural Awards has been extended to 31 July 2026, it was announced during a stakeholder breakfast briefing held in Midrand on 2 July 2026.
Drone adoption still hinges on economics, education, and policy
The rapid evolution of drone technology is creating new possibilities for South African agriculture, but widespread adoption will depend on convincing data, practical support, and an enabling regulatory environment before drones become mainstream farming tools.
