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.
Potato prices soar, but farmers still under pressure
Potatoes prices have reached record levels for the year and are trading at 77% higher than a year ago. This week, the prices again increased, reaching R81,67/10kg, Johnny van der Merwe, managing director of AM Trends, reported.
How a dairy concern adds value to a diversified operation
With so many variables in the farming landscape, diversification is a useful strategy to hedge one’s risk and ensure a steady cash flow. However, managing multiple divisions comes with its own challenges. Jan Grey, who farms in Mpumalanga’s Bethal region, spoke to Lindi Botha about his winning strategies.
Local problems more of a threat to SA than losing AGOA
While the potential loss of international trade agreements could disrupt South Africa’s trade balance, domestic issues are in fact far more serious, according to Dr Mmatlou Kalaba, commodity market analyst at the Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy.
Perseverance: the key to stud-farming success
Bonsmara stud manager Sizo Tshabalala believes there is a lesson to be learnt from every challenge. He spoke to Lindi Botha about how his passion for farming and determination to succeed have helped him overcome every obstacle he has faced on his journey to achieving his agricultural dreams.
Nearly 2 million layer hens culled in Mpumalanga as bird flu hits
The highly pathogenic H7 bird flu has spread to Mpumalanga over the last week, necessitating the culling of 1,8 million layer hens. The virus is believed to be contained but fears that wild birds will continue to spread the virus remain.
Boran cattle: perfect fit for diversified farmer
As a diversified farmer whose primary focus is grain, Leon van Tonder doesn’t have much time to worry about his cattle. He spoke to Lindi Botha about why introducing Boran cattle into his herd was the best decision he has ever made, and how this beef breed complements his crop-production division.
Higher maize yield boosts production figures
The latest crop production forecast shows an increase in maize yield, mostly attributed to favourable weather conditions that boosted the crop towards the end of summer.
Macadamia production: cost-cutting ideas to balance falling prices
South Africa’s relatively young macadamia industry has a long way to go to establish optimal farming practices and efficiencies. However, with nut prices falling, producers need to focus on cost savings that will balance inputs with output. Lindi Botha reports on key areas that macadamia farmers should be paying attention to.
Top pig farmer takes full advantage of technology
New technologies, big data and top-of-the-range genetics are becoming increasingly important aspects of profitable pig farming. However, these advancements don’t come cheap, placing them out of reach of many small-scale producers. Pig farmer CP Kriek spoke to Lindi Botha about tech solutions suited to Africa.
‘Farmers have to take charge of rural safety’
Farmers are being called on to work together to build safer communities, rather than wait for government to act.
Eskom’s lack of maintenance causing fire outbreaks
As the summer rainfall region enters the fire season, farmers have been cautioned to keep a watchful eye on Eskom lines and transformers.
Merino: why a bigger flock is better on the Mpumalanga Highveld
The Mpumalanga Highveld was once the wool capital of South Africa, but rampant stock theft over the years has largely decimated the industry here. However, while some farmers are moving away from sheep farming, Johan Steyn has plans to expand his flock. He spoke to Lindi Botha about his success with Merinos.
This is how carbon policies can prevent food insecurity
The race to net-zero carbon emissions has implications for agriculture and food security. Whether the outcome will be positive or negative for society, the environment and farmers, depends largely on how government formulates emissions policies. Lindi Botha reports on why agriculture’s role should not be underestimated.
‘African farmers need the latest seeds’
Global access to the latest seed technology will play a vital role in food security as climate change increasingly hinders food production.
Limited stocks of poultry products unrelated to bird flu, says SAPA
Low inventories of eggs and chickens at the retail level have sparked rumours that the sale of poultry products is being halted to curb the spread of avian influenza to consumers.
Murder rate in SA still disturbingly high
The crime statistics for January to March 2023, released on Tuesday, show that communities, especially agricultural communities, are left to safeguard their families, properties and businesses by themselves.
Capitalising on unused land with Boer Goats
The subtropical Lowveld is hardly prime goat country, but with good management, a farmer can add a valuable component to the crops cultivated in the area. Divan Maritz spoke to Lindi Botha about how he manages his goat stud of 300 animals for optimal farm profitability in this climate.
Inflation eases, but food prices still on the rise
South Africa’s annual consumer inflation rate slowed to 6,8% in April 2023 from 7,1% in March. Although a small change, it does represent the lowest reading since May 2022, when the rate was 6,5%.
Rand plummets, but analysts expect recovery within weeks
The rand has taken a severe tumble over the past 24 hours, reaching an all-time low at one stage of R19,51/US$1. The currency’s free fall, which has accelerated the downward trend of South Africa’s exchange rate, comes as public speculation mounts over the country’s alleged supplying of weapons to Russia for its war against Ukraine.
Commodity downturn could spur farm sales
Farmers in the Lowveld are facing severe pressure as commodity prices for subtropical crops dip while input costs rise rapidly.
