Magda du Toit
Magda du Toit is a freelance communication consultant and journalist. She has worked in the agriculture sector for more than 35 years. She obtained a BA in Communication (Hons), and also completed a Post-Graduate Diploma in Marketing Management. Throughout her career she has received recognition and various awards for individual and team contributions. She was also the chairperson of the northern branch of Agricultural Writers SA and still serves on both its executive bodies. Magda is also the South African representative at the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists, where she chairs one of the committees.
New seed treatment application option available to soya bean farmers
Successful soya bean production depends on keeping plants healthy from planting to harvesting. Using fungicidal, insecticidal, and plant growth regulator seed treatments helps seedlings reach their full yield potential by protecting them from disease and insect pests.
Farmer of the Year Awards honours excellence in grain farming
Speaking at the Grain SA Farmer of the Year Awards in Johannesburg on 31 October, Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen commended farmers for their determination and innovation, saying excellence is born not of comfort but of courage and hard work.
SA’s favourite relishes produced in the heart of the Letsitele Valley
If you think holiday or snacks before a braai, chances are good that crunchy and fresh cocktail-sized gherkins pickled in a sweet and tangy-flavoured vinegar brine are on the menu. These gherkins, and many of the other products produced by Miami Canners, are perfect for summer platters, salads, or sandwiches. Magda du Toit visited the Pieterse family on their farm, Miami, near Letsitele, recently to find out the secret behind the success of this family-owned and farm-based business.
Genetics and breeding pave the way for Bessiesfontein’s success
Dohne Merino sheep are renowned for their dual-purpose capabilities, excelling in both wool and meat production. In addition, the breed is known for its adaptability to a variety of climates and management systems. Julius Beukes, a well-known Dohne Merino breeder near Ladysmith in KwaZulu-Natal, spoke to Magda du Toit about his production system.
Research projects aimed at improving grain farmer profitability
At a meeting of the Conservation Agriculture Research Forum on 9 October held in Pretoria, delegates discussed key results from Maize Trust-funded research projects and other conservation agriculture studies managed by Asset Research, an NGO focused on environmental and resource economics.
Sharing information on nematode studies will have mutual benefits
At the 25th Nematological Society of Southern Africa Symposium in Mpumalanga, Hans Helder, associate professor at the Laboratory of Nematology at Wageningen University & Research, highlighted soil health and how long-read DNA sequencing can identify beneficial and harmful nematodes.
Unlocking Africa’s potential requires bold leadership
In her opening address at the 4th Annual B Lab Africa Summit 2025 on Climate Modalities, Lucy Muigai, CEO of B LAB Africa, stressed that Africa’s future depends on collective action and courageous leadership.
Corteva celebrates women’s impact in agriculture
At the Corteva Agriscience Women’s Brunch Celebration held last week in Centurion, Gauteng, women across all levels of agriculture came together to honour one another’s contributions to the sector.
Education levels in South Africa not improving across the race divide
Speaking at the 4th Annual B Lab Africa Summit in Johannesburg, Dr Pali Lehohla, former Statistician-General of South Africa, said that it was evident that the new South Africa has to a large extent failed black and coloured people.
Corteva announces plans to split its seed and chemical businesses
Corteva, the multinational company that develops seed and crop protection products, recently announced in a press release that it plans to separate its seed and chemical businesses into two publicly traded companies.
Evolution of nematicide technology at a glance
Dr Driekie Fourie, Syngenta Seedcare product biologist for Africa and the Middle East, told the recent 25th Nematological Society of Southern Africa Symposium near Malelane, Mpumalanga, that nematicides have come a long way since their introduction in the mid-19th century.
Yield records broken in the Grow for Gold competition
A wider choice of improved cultivars, along with adapted production and field management practices, is contributing to higher grain yields, greater profitability, and a more sustainable grain production industry in South Africa.
Local barley industry stands to benefit from global investment
Barley production has fluctuated due to hurdles ranging from unpredictable weather to rising costs. This has prompted farmers to plant lower-risk crops like wheat, oats, or canola, disrupting production and market stability and increasing uncertainty in the industry.
Machinery supplier gives learners insight into agri technology
For close to a century, since 1927, Rovic Leers has been invested in South African agriculture, specifically focusing on equipment fitted with the latest technology.
Bayer celebrates 111 years of Seedgrowth at Nampo Cape
Seed treatments are a powerful, efficient, and safe tool helping farmers to protect their seedlings during their most vulnerable stages of growth, especially during the first couple of weeks after planting.
Scientists discuss wheat diseases, soil health at Nampo Cape
At this year’s Nampo Cape, Syngenta Seedcare brought together three agricultural science luminaries, with a combined 117 years of expertise, to address the key challenges facing small grain farmers in the Western Cape.
Bayer honours women in agriculture
The Bayer Boervrou van die Jaar competition, now in its second year, celebrates the women who play a vital role in South African agriculture, whether they are managing farm operations, driving innovation, or making a difference in their communities.
Rotary Club honours SACTA’s community contribution
At the Rotary Club of Pretoria Capital’s Service Awards ceremony held on 26 August, members honoured local heroes, including the South African Cultivar and Technology Agency (SACTA).
What makes good feed … good?
Feed quality is influenced by many factors. Magda du Toit spoke to feed manufacturers to find out how they ensure quality, from the handling and storage of raw materials to the processing and distribution of feed.
Wheat breeder wins second women’s voice competition
Elaine van Eeden, a wheat breeder and researcher at Syngenta, was announced as the 2025 winner of the Future Agri Perspectives Women’s Voice Competition at a gala event in Johannesburg, Gauteng this week.
- ADVERTISEMENT -
- ADVERTISEMENT -
MUST READS
- ADVERTISEMENT -
