Staff Reporter
Beefmaster: ‘Perfectly bred for the beef producer’
The Beefmaster, which was developed in the US, is a popular beef breed in South Africa due to its adaptability, short intercalving period, and other key traits. Gerrie Jansen van Rensburg, president of the Beefmaster Cattle Breeders’ Society of South Africa (Beefmaster SA), told Susan Marais more about this hardy all-rounder.
Yes, SA has challenges, but we can fix them! – Dr Imtiaz Sooliman
Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers, does not believe that South Africa is collapsing, despite its current political, economic and infrastructural problems. One reason for hope, he argues, lies in the compassion and patience of South Africans. He has seen it first-hand for 30 years.
Maize Trust bursary: Making a difference | Episode 8
Angelique Daniell is a lecturer at the North-West University. She grew up in a small mining town just outside Potchefstroom.
Why a zebra’s stripes may confuse horseflies
There are many hypotheses on why horseflies may be put off by a zebra’s stripes. In a recent study, researchers concluded that this may be a result of the temperature on darker stripes, rather than the stripes themselves.
Irrigation unlocks value for Sandveld potatoes
Stephan & Seun Farming in the Western Cape is ambitious and technologically driven. Their potato cultivation leans heavily on irrigation, and Agrico has been their trusted supplier for decades.
Boosting agricultural productivity via small-scale vertical farming
Zikhona Buyeye, a junior researcher at the Agricultural Research Council’s Natural Resources and Engineering Division, explores the importance of vertical farming structures for small-scale vegetable production.
Maize Trust bursary: Making a difference | Episode 7
Dr Abongile Balarane is the General Manager of the South African Poultry Association’s Egg Organisation. He grew up in humble beginnings in a small town in Welkom.
How a Simmentaler stud thrives on mountainous veld
The dual-purpose Simmentaler is known for its adaptability and good temperament. Tjokkie Nel, who runs a stud near Barkly East, spoke to Gavin Isted about the success he has had on this seemingly harsh terrain.
Isuzu makes a splash in the Eastern Cape
In the Wild Coast region, where very poor roads and rough conditions are the norm, Isuzu trucks are valued for their ruggedness and reliability.
Maize Trust bursary: Making a difference | Episode 6
Dr Richard Kotze, from Pretoria, started his studies in plant sciences. In his Honours year, he focussed on mycotoxins, a path that took him all the way to his MSc. degree.
‘Go-to tractors’ for dairy farmers
Nick Stubbs owns and runs a large dairy in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, and says a reliable tractor is vital to his operation’s success.
Smallholders’ role in protecting our forests
According to a new report, smallholders and indigenous peoples can be effective forest managers, as they occupy nearly half of the world’s forest and farm landscapes and are often invested in these areas.
Maize Trust bursary: Making a difference | Episode 5
Dr Stephano Haarhoff is a young agronomist at Yarra Fertilizer, who grew up in the coastal town of Hermanus but spent his childhood holidays on the family farm in the Free State where his passion for agriculture took root.
Castrol keeps your fleet moving
Employing advanced lubricants, Castrol’s products are recognised worldwide for innovation and high performance through the company’s commitment to premium quality and cutting-edge technology.
Maize Trust bursary: Making a difference | Episode 4
Nozibusiso Maphumulo (27) grew up in a small rural village in KwaZulu-Natal, under extreme poverty. Maphumulo knew very little about agriculture but was exposed to subsistence farming in the village.
A vaccine bank could reduce disease panic
Dr Baty Dungu believes South Africa should take lessons from countries that have been using stockpiles for years to ensure adequate vaccine supplies before outbreaks occur.
Read this before buying a bull for your beef herd!
Sechaba Majola, a researcher in the Animal Unit at the University of the Free State, gives advice to small-scale beef cattle farmers on how to buy a quality bull and improve herd genetics.
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Technology and innovation to ignite agricultural transformation
The South African agricultural sector offers enormous potential. The vast landscapes, fertile soil and remarkable weather systems provide opportunities for growth and economic transformation. However, there are challenges that are restraining growth, including limited productivity, lack of investment and poorly maintained infrastructure.
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