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.”
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.
Youth urged to start small and seize opportunities in agriculture
At the Madibeng Agri Youth Day on 23 June in Brits, North West, young people were encouraged not to wait for access to land, funding, or government grants before entering the agriculture sector but to instead build their businesses step by step.
No off-road beast, but still very capable
Jedrie Harmse put the QJMOTOR SRT 900 SX bike through its paces on both tar and gravel to discover exactly what this tough adventure tourer is actually capable of.
Sasol farmers’ day helps equip emerging producers for sustainable growth
Sasol, through its Bridge to Work programme, hosted a farmers’ day in Mpumalanga on 11 June, bringing together emerging producers, industry stakeholders, and government representatives to support the development of sustainable farming enterprises.
Quality standards key to unlocking global cannabis export markets
South Africa’s cannabis industry has a significant opportunity to establish itself as a competitive supplier to international markets, but success will depend on producers’ ability to meet increasingly stringent quality, compliance, and production standards.
How to prepare your motorcycle for long-distance travel
Motorcycles operate in harsh, unpredictable environments, and even well-maintained machines can develop issues. Jedrie Harmse offers some advice.
SA’s cannabis industry should serve local needs first, says activist
South Africa still has the opportunity to develop a world-leading cannabis industry, but achieving that goal will require a more integrated approach to policy development, stronger support for local economic participation, and a regulatory framework that enables meaningful industry growth.
