Lindi Botha
Lindi Botha is an agricultural journalist and communications specialist based in Nelspruit, South Africa. She has spent over a decade reporting on food production and has a special interest in research, new innovations and technology that aid farmers in increasing their margins, while reducing their environmental footprint. She has garnered numerous awards during her career, including The International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) Star Prize in 2019, the IFAJ-Alltech International Award for Leadership in Agricultural Journalism in 2020, and several South African awards for her writing.
Lack of transparency clouds touted land claim progress
The South African government has to date spent R25 billion to settle land claims. Hectares bought and transferred to land claimants equate to 3,9 million.
Macadamias are on the mend
The macadamia nut industry is entering a recovery phase as low prices stimulate demand and value-adding. Over the last two years, the crop fetched significantly lower prices as world economies took a downturn after the COVID-19 lockdowns.
Cut insect damage by installing bat and owl boxes
Bats and owls have a significant contribution to make to controlling pests on farms. Provide them with adequate housing, and these insect and rodent eaters will offer a cost-effective, consistent pest-control service. Lindi Botha looks at best practices for building and erecting owl and bat boxes.
Do you have environmental authorisation to farm?
Farming’s impact on the environment is not usually front of mind when buying a piece of land, but without securing environmental authorisation, farmers could find themselves in a world of trouble. Lindi Botha speaks to Ngwanarachuene Mampane, director of Westleigh Environmental Services, about remaining on the right side of the law, how to apply for authorisation and the time frame involved.
World Pulses Day highlights this miracle food
World Pulses Day on 10 February is of particular importance this year as the food sector the world over seeks solutions to improve soil health and increase food security.
Above-inflation minimum wage hike will hinder job creation
Labour costs are set to rise by 8,5% from 1 March 2024. The 3% above-inflation increase in the National Minimum Wage (NMW) will see hourly rates jump from R25,42 to R27,58, prompting concern across labour-reliant industries about whether they will be able to maintain employment rates.
Agricultural trends that will impact your farm in 2024
The rate at which the world is changing seems to grow faster each year. This is particularly true for the agriculture sector, where technology, consumer demands and research culminate in a whole new playing field. What lies in store for agriculture this year? Lindi Botha looks at the top five trends that will influence the sector this year.
Following the herd to help reduce emissions
Identifying and including a low-methane trait in livestock breeding programmes could be the answer to the methane problem faced by animal farmers globally. But how conclusive is the research and will it impact production traits? Lindi Botha reports.
Agriculture takes the spotlight in matric class of 2023
While the matric class of 2023 has much to celebrate in the increased pass rate, the agriculture sector has more reason for optimism with the increase in interest in agricultural subjects.
South African avocados head for Japan
South Africa’s growing avocado crop received a boost late last year when Japan lifted its ban on Hass avocados from this country.
Severe weather could curb Mpumalanga yields
The festive season in Mpumalanga was characterised by severe weather that resulted in floods, strong winds and hail. The province received uncharacteristically high amounts of rainfall.
Holiday goers flock to farms for health and fitness
Agritourism is growing in popularity in South Africa, and this past December saw an influx of holiday goers seeking adventures on farms.
High prices put the brakes on eggy breakfasts
The new year’s budget blues are set to increase for poultry consumers as prices remain high after last year’s devastating bird flu outbreak in South Africa.
How a focus on genetics can triple macadamia yield
The macadamia industry has yet to make the quantum leap in yield seen in older industries like apples and citrus. But with a greater focus on genetics, and fine-tuning every step in the production process, tripling macadamia yields could soon be a reality. Lindi Botha reports.
Focused pricing for avocados will sustain the industry
Avocado growers are set to start the new year with a range of new market options as years of negotiations have come to fruition. This is especially prudent since South Africa is expecting an increase in yield in 2024.
The highs and lows of 2023: our farmers speak
The year was characterised by a roller-coaster ride of highs and lows for farmers. We spoke to a group of Farmer’s Weekly readers to get their take on 2023 and the road ahead.
Avo farm’s long journey to profitability
Land restitution farms in South Africa have a patchy success rate, with many going to ruins after the change in ownership. Failure is usually attributed to the sudden change in management from those with a farming background to those without, as well as a critical lack of operating capital. Lindi Botha spoke to Tom Mdluli of the Matsafeni Trust about surviving despite the challenges, and their plans to expand the operation.
Follow these simple steps to keep your farm safe this holiday
The December holidays present a prime opportunity for thieves to take advantage of farms, often left vacant as farmers head out for the festive period. But with a proper security strategy in place, farmers and their assets can remain safe.
Live Christmas trees: easy money? Not quite!
Many South Africans driving past pine forest plantations in South Africa would have asked themselves why the forestry sector is not capitalising on live Christmas tree sales with their ample forests.
Agri exports up, but hard work lies ahead
South Africa’s agriculture sector has registered an increase in international trade despite issues plaguing our ports.
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