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Get credit! Tips on writing a business plan for your farm

If you intend to start farming, or have plans to expand your existing operation, you are almost certain to require funding. But before you can apply for this, you will need to put together a business plan to convince investors that your endeavour is worth their risk. Prof Sanlie Middelberg of North-West University summarises the main elements of a sound business proposal based on research by master’s student Sicelo Masuku.

Why you should consider a prenuptial agreement

Together with a restrictive shareholder agreement, a prenuptial agreement ensures that an ex-spouse will not automatically be a family business shareholder. If the subject is raised far in advance of marriage, or with children before they enter into serious relationships, it is less likely to result in arguments and hurt feelings.

The possible dangers of eating insects

The farming and processing of edible insects for human and animal consumption appears to be gaining in popularity. However, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, there are risks to eating insects that have not been farmed with the correct biosecurity measures in place, and these risks are potentially dangerous to human and animal health.

Risks facing South Africa

Andries Wiese takes a look at some of the main risks that could have an impact on businesses and individuals in South Africa. He also discusses how they might be mitigated, and says that fresh thinking may be needed.

Developing farmers fit for the future for South Africa

FarmSol is celebrating five years of supporting new farmers this October. The company aims to connect farmers and markets to improve food security and income in South Africa.

Second call for applications: Farmers support towards commercialisation

The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) in partnership with the National Treasury Jobs Fund invites suitably qualified farmers to apply for support from the DALRRD/Jobs Fund Programme.

How COVID-19 changed agricultural policy

As governments implemented containment measures to slow the spread of COVID-19 in early 2020, they also introduced ways of limiting the effects of the virus and related lockdowns on agricultural supply chains. A recent report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development tracked these initiatives, including the South African government’s response.

An active retirement awaits

Retiring young at heart is easy when you’re offered the right environment. Just ask the residents at The Retreat Retirement Estate in Pretoria East, who believe that an active retirement space is what makes the difference.

How batteries boost reliability of renewable energy

The increase in electricity tariffs and Eskom’s inability to provide enough power for the country makes investing in renewable energy even more attractive for farmers and agro-processing.

Husqvarna’s new battery-powered chainsaw range

Husqvarna is set to give the farming industry an exciting new choice in chainsaws with the release of two battery-powered options – the Husqvarna T540i XP® top-handle and Husqvarna 540i XP® rear-handle.

Farmer’s raspberry jam

There are few things in life as satisfying as whipping up a jar of home-made jam. This batch is easy to prepare, and is made entirely from natural ingredients, says Michael Feldmann.

Family businesses: When parents and children clash

Parent and child can work together on the farm, love each other, state their needs, be heard and learn to negotiate their differences. It starts with respect and compromise, says Trevor Dickinson.

How much will it cost to save the planet?

The ongoing loss of natural spaces, including forests, has become a systemic risk for the global economy, warns the report, ‘State of Financing for Nature: Tripling investments in nature-based solutions by 2030’, by the United Nations Environment Programme.