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.
SAT1 FMD serotype detected in China
International animal health authorities have issued urgent warnings after a historically African strain of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) spread into parts of Europe, Asia and the Middle East, raising concerns about economic fallout and weaknesses in global preparedness.
Bigger summer grain harvest expected, but price pressure builds
Grain SA agricultural economist Gerhard Burger says South Africa’s grain industry is entering the new production season with strong summer crop prospects, but the improved outlook comes with growing pressure on prices and shrinking producer margins.
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TotalEnergies: dedicated to helping farmers optimise their operations
From high-performance lubricants and commercial bulk fuels to liquefied petroleum gas, solar energy, and fleet management, TotalEnergies is powering farm productivity across South Africa.
B.E.D. named authorised distributor for Harris Products Group in SA
Bolt and Engineering Distributors Group (B.E.D.) recently announced that it has been appointed as an authorised distributor for the Harris Products Group (Harris) in South Africa.
Summit to help hemp and cannabis move into mainstream economy
South Africa’s hemp and cannabis industries are increasingly being positioned as high-potential growth sectors, capable of contributing to agricultural diversification, rural job creation and export earnings. This momentum will be under the spotlight when the CHEEBA Cannabis & Hemp Summit returns to Johannesburg on 29 May 2026.
Opstal Estate: seven generations of resilience, grit, and heritage
Opstal Estate is a masterclass in agricultural evolution. Nestled in the high-rainfall Slanghoek Valley, this seventh-generation heritage farm has transitioned from bulk wine production to a diversified boutique destination. Blending award-winning ‘Old Vine’ Chenin Blanc with regenerative cattle farming and luxury tourism, Opstal ensures a resilient legacy remains in motion.
Rising fuel costs hit Zimbabwe farmers, threatening food supply
Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector faces mounting pressure as rising fuel costs spread through the value chain. Farmers, transporters, and industry experts warn that volatile prices could affect productivity and food supply, particularly for smallholder farmers.
A rather remarkable woman
Olive Schreiner is without doubt one of the most famous women South Africa has ever produced, and as a writer tried to persuade the British and Boer warring factions about the futility of armed conflict.
Meerkat Online Auctions keeping livestock trade moving as FMD impacts farmers
As foot-and-mouth disease continues to affect livestock movement, Meerkat Online Auctions is helping farmers keep the market moving.
Win 1 of 20 bottles of Micromin B multi-mineral supplement
Maintaining herd health requires consistent nutritional support, especially under challenging farming conditions, which is why Design Biologix is giving livestock producers the chance to win one of 20 bottles of Micromin B, each valued at R2 000.
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Bloem Show 2026: a beach party experience like no other
The Bloem Show is proudly celebrating its 143rd anniversary this year, with a vibrant and refreshing theme: Beach Party in Bloem!
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Tips for the long-term protection of agricultural machinery
Thorough cleaning, protective wax treatment, and proper winter storage can extend the service life of agricultural machinery, preserve resale value, and reduce the risk of breakdowns in the next season.
Twinning in Dorper sheep requires some modified management
Twinning in Dorper sheep can greatly boost productivity, but it requires precise nutrition, fertility management, and seasonal planning to safeguard ewe health and lamb survival.
Traditional curried pickled fish worth the wait
This traditional curried pickled fish is a beautifully balanced dish of tender fried fish layered with sweet, tangy curry-infused onions. Made ahead and left to soak up all the flavour, it’s the perfect recipe for gatherings, celebrations, or a comforting meal served with soft bread rolls.
Easter egg rocky road: a no-bake treat everyone will love
Looking for an easy, crowd pleasing Easter sweet? This colourful rocky road comes together in minutes, combining creamy chocolate, fluffy marshmallows, and crunchy cookie pieces, all topped with speckled eggs for a festive finish. Simply mix, chill, and slice perfect for sharing.
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Meet the Pannar team at Nampo 2026
Pannar will be at NAMPO 2026, showcasing locally tested hybrids, practical agronomic insights, and solutions designed for real farming conditions.
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Panda Potatoes reflects Agrico’s commitment to African farmers
Agrico’s reliable centre pivots and after-sales support help farmers across Africa efficiently irrigate, fertilise, and protect their crops, even in the most remote locations and under the harshest conditions.
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When the unpredictable strikes, your insurance cover can’t be on autopilot
Climate volatility is reshaping risk on South African farms. Reviewing your insurance and insured values regularly to ensure they reflect the cost of recovery is essential to maintaining balance sheet resilience.
Global agriculture experts to gather for ICAS 2026
The International Conference on Agriculture Sciences (ICAS 2026) will bring together researchers, industry leaders and policymakers in Bologna, Italy, from 21 to 23 October 2026 to discuss agroecology, sustainable farming systems and emerging agritech innovations.
Technology in hemp production
Carel van Niekerk Jr of Piket Implements spoke to Petri de Beer about the recent hemp trials in which the company participated, and the potential for the crop in South Africa.
