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.
Latest articles
Farm attacks: Security expert outlines a proactive plan
Laurence Palmer, an independent security consultant, outlines practical steps that South African farmers and farmworkers can take to avoid becoming victims of farm attacks, and to protect themselves if attacked.
KZN tornado’s impact on agriculture still to be determined
In yet another devastating blow for KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), a tornado ripped through parts of Durban on the afternoon of 27 June, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
Webinar: The importance of skills development in primary agriculture
Farmer’s Weekly hosted an informative webinar focussing on the significance of skills development in primary agriculture. For those who were unable to attend the live session or wish to revisit the discussions, you can watch the recording now.
Get to know dragon fruit
Dragon fruit production in South Africa is growing, thanks to increasing demand from Northern Hemisphere countries.
Enhancing women’s agri productivity
Automation and digitalisation present opportunities to enhance women’s agricultural productivity, according to Dr Elizabeth Mkandawire and Dr Selorm Dorvlo, researchers in South Africa and Ghana respectively.
Using drones to boost farm security
Modern drones have come a long way from their clunky forebears; they’re also more affordable. One key use for them is as ‘eyes in the sky’ to help maintain security, and this makes them ideal for farmers. Security consultant Laurence Palmer gives a brief history of the drone and explains what it takes to operate one.
Sponsored
Kärcher cleaners: tough on grime
Looking for a hot-water high-pressure cleaner to tackle dirt on your farm? Kärcher’s latest product range is hard to beat, with its unique combination of power, efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
Why sexed semen is ideal for emerging cattle farmers
In a recent study, Luther Magopa of the Agricultural Research Council, along with other researchers, looked at the possibility and benefits of using sexed semen in emerging or small-scale cattle production.
Boost agricultural productivity with premium lubricants
Astron Energy has been delivering long-term value to farmers for decades, demonstrating a deep understanding of the significance of boosting productivity on farms.
SA’s cannabis industry: a potential powerhouse
Cannabis production could spur employment in South Africa, but the regulatory framework of the industry is not being formulated at the desired pace, says independent writer Shamin Chibba.
Chicken or egg? The best way to start a poultry operation
Want to venture into poultry farming but don’t know where to begin? Unsure of whether to focus on chicken or egg production? If so, watch our fact-filled webinar and get the guidance you need from poultry experts.
Climate Smart Livestock Farming for Sustainable Food Security Conference & Study Tour
Empire Conferencing invites you to join them on a remarkable 3-day intensive conference and study tour, focusing on improved strategies for raising livestock to ensure sustainable food security.
2nd Annual Carbon Farming and Soil Conservation Conference & Educational Tour
Register now for this event scheduled to take place from the 19 to 21 July 2023 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
Culdevco’s fruit cultivars boost profitability
During the 2022/23 season, South Africa’s fruit producers faced slow supply chains, increased production costs, weather problems, and difficulties with fruit size.
‘Producers keen to embrace technology’ – Grain SA
Grain SA (GSA) succeeded in creating an excellent platform for local and international agricultural suppliers and manufacturers to introduce the latest and most advanced global technology.
Water harvesting being promoted in Zambia
Climate change challenges have taken a toll on Zambia’s bumper harvests of recent years, prompting authorities to consider initiating countervailing measures to ensure sustained food security.
The ARC: At the forefront of food security in South Africa
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) is South Africa’s premier agricultural research organisation and the custodian of scientific research in this field on behalf of the South African government and public.
Nation in Conversation at Nampo
The Nation in Conversation panel discussions brings together thought leaders and industry experts to engage in insightful conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing the agricultural sector. Watch the live-stream from 16-19 May 2023.
Healthy soil starts with a penetrometer
What more can we do to conserve and nourish the soil, a precious resource? Carel van Niekerk Jr of Piket Implements shares his advice.
Piket Implements: 90 years of unbroken success as a leading SA agri equipment...
Top agri machinery manufacturer Piket Implements has been in business for 90 years and is busier than ever. The company, which has released a YouTube video, praises its loyal clients and ‘remarkable employees’.
