Staff Reporter
Farmer's Weekly's Staff Reporter team provides accurate, timely, and trusted coverage of South African agriculture, delivering expert-backed reporting on farming, livestock, crops, agribusiness, technology, policy, and industry developments.
How to conserve moisture in dryland farming systems
In South Africa's dryland farming systems, successful farmers aren’t necessarily those who receive more rain but those who lose less of it. Farmer’s Weekly spoke to Prof Nomali Ngobese and Prof Jacques Berner of North-West University about how producers can conserve more moisture in their soils.
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Winter vegetation management made easier with the Husqvarna 541RS
Winter is the perfect time for vegetation management in South Africa. With growth slowing, visibility improves and conditions become ideal for tackling overgrown fence lines, clearing around infrastructure, and reducing fuel loads ahead of the peak fire season.
Livestock forum puts SA’s meat industry in the spotlight
At the Livestock Global Forum 2026, held on 22 June in Pretoria, Gauteng, experts from around the world discussed whether South Africa’s livestock industry is positioned to compete in increasingly demanding international markets, with much of the focus on the beef industry.
Staying on a sheep farm with a Zen twist
Farms stays come in many forms, appealing to all sectors of the travelling public. On a sheep farm near Colesberg in the Northern Cape, Antony and Margie Osler have created a retreat where Zen Buddhism, Karoo farming and wide-open spaces come together in an unlikely but compelling combination, writes Julienne du Toit.
Africa Protein Alliance to launch in Nelson Mandela Bay
Leaders from government, academia, industry, financial institutions, research organisations, and the private sector will gather in Nelson Mandela Bay, Eastern Cape, on 26 June for the launch of the Africa Protein Alliance.
Beefmaster shows resilience amid climate pressure and possible drought
While large parts of South Africa have battled droughts, heatwaves and unpredictable weather patterns over the past few years, the Beefmaster breed continues to prove why it is regarded as one of the most adaptable and hardy beef cattle breeds.
A camp where wagon history comes alive
Tucked in the Sneeuberg mountains, Witmos Oxwagon Camp offers a journey into the country’s wagon-train history, rugged Karoo landscapes and rhythms of farm life, write Chris Marais and Julienne du Toit.
Gauteng budget earmarks R64 million for FMD fight
The Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has allocated R63,9 million towards strengthening the province's response to foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) as part of a R742,5 million budget aimed at improving food security, supporting farmer development, and stimulating economic growth through agriculture.
Boran cattle prove their worth under bushveld conditions in Eswatini
At Ingwavuma Game Reserve in southern Eswatini, Liz and Ted Reilly run a Boran stud focused on producing functionally efficient cattle adapted to extensive bushveld conditions. Speaking to Farmer’s Weekly, Liz Reilly explained why she believes the indigenous African breed offers a practical and cost-effective option for beef production, particularly in challenging environments.
The Kgodiso Development Fund’s vision for black farmers
Four years after its launch, a R600 million fund born from a corporate acquisition is transforming the lives of black farmers across the Eastern and Northern Cape.
How a young farmer turned a single tunnel into a 5ha vegetable enterprise
Lesego Mohube has rapidly scaled her Heidelberg vegetable enterprise from a single tunnel to 5ha. Her market-aligned, precision-driven approach focuses on staggered production and consistency to ensure year-round profitability.
Top 10 medium- to high-power tractors showcased at Nampo 2026
Bigger implements, tighter planting windows, and growing efficiency demands are shaping the evolution of high-horsepower tractors. At Nampo 2026, manufacturers displayed more powerful, fuel-efficient machines with smarter technology. Farmer’s Weekly has rounded up 10 standout models from 200kW upwards, in alphabetical order.
How to effectively manage parasitic weeds in crop production
Parasitic weeds remain a major threat to crop production across Africa, particularly in grain-based systems. Prof Olubukola Oluranti Babalola, director of food security and safety research at North-West University, offers a practical guide to managing these weeds through improved soil health and sustainable farming practices.
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Regenerative agriculture is a business imperative
Regenerative agriculture was once primarily viewed as a sustainability conversation, but it is rapidly becoming a commercial necessity. Climate volatility, soil degradation, biodiversity loss, and rising input costs are creating a new operating environment where long-term productivity and profitability depend on rebuilding the natural systems that underpin farming.
Groundwater regulations set for official rollout by September 2026
Despite sectoral consultations and a public commentary process that began in December 2025 and was later extended to 27 March 2026, farmers may have to wait several more months for clarity on the proposed Regulations for the Protection and Management of Groundwater Resources.
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AVBOB declares R15bn special bonus through 65Alive Cash Benefit
At its 74th annual general meeting, AVBOB announced a R15 billion special bonus in the form of its 65Alive Cash Benefit for qualifying members.
The 2026 Africa Agri Expo: bigger, bolder, and more connected
After nine successful shows that brought together farmers, agribusiness leaders, investors, policymakers, and innovators from across the globe, the Africa Agri Expo is back for its milestone 10th Jubilee edition, and this year, it promises to be the most significant gathering yet.
Horns, heritage, and hardiness: Ankole cattle are turning heads in Limpopo
For Edwin Hewitt and his family at Hope Private Game Reserve in Limpopo, Ankole cattle are more than a striking African breed with enormous horns. They represent a long-term investment in genetics, resilience, and African livestock heritage, with the potential to contribute meaningfully to future commercial beef systems.
Bridging science, breeding, and the auction ring in modern livestock production
At just 29, Hennie Goosen represents a new generation of agricultural professionals who combine deep-rooted farming heritage with formal scientific training and practical market experience.
Crossbreeding with Ankole: the hardy advantage
Dail van Rensburg farms in the Delareyville district of North West. His mixed-farming enterprise includes grain production and beef cattle. He has been farming Ankole for 25 years and has built up a large herd.
