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.
Boost productivity with heifers
The replacement heifer is the foundation of a productive cow herd. Its selection and development can greatly affect the profitability of the farm through its genetics, future performance and longevity.
Silicon Valley start-up debuts electric tractor
In December last year, agriculture technology start-up company Monarch Tractor, which has been referred to as the ‘Tesla of the agriculture world’, introduced the world’s first single unit, fully electric, driver-optional smart tractor.
Thorn tree leaves: a nutritious grain substitute in pig feed
Smallholder pig production in Southern Africa is constrained by feed shortages and the demand for grains to feed the ever-growing human population. This makes it important to identify alternative feedstuffs for pigs.
Escape to the beautiful Overberg
Brian Berkman recently travelled to apple and wine country in the Overberg region to experience true Cape farm hospitality at Paul and Nicky Wallace’s property in the Elgin Valley. Paul Wallace Wines offers a tranquil getaway for anyone looking for a farm break close to Cape Town, and is a special treat for wine lovers.
Tackling a widespread pig zoonosis
Diseases that spread from animals to humans are a serious health risk. One such disease, associated with pigs, is a particular problem in rural South Africa, says Dr Caryn Shacklock of Afrivet.
Error 404: the barriers to digital inclusivity
Progress towards digital inclusivity is threatened by growing digital dependency, automation, information suppression, and gaps in regulation and capabilities, notes the World Economic Forum’s latest Global Risks Report.
Regenerative farming for livestock farmers
Faced with increasing financial and ecological pressure, livestock farmers have no other option but to become more sustainable and resilient. Fortunately, explains independent agricultural consultant Dr Louis du Pisani, the solution can be found in well-managed veld, which also contributes directly to the health of the earth.
Bumper maize crop won’t undermine producer price – Grain SA
It is highly unlikely that maize prices will decline, despite industry stakeholders forecasting a record harvest this season.
Bringing the latest innovations in precision agriculture to SA
Jacto’s self-propelled sprayers will help farmers take an innovative leap forward in precision agriculture technology.
Succession planning: the time to talk is now
In this first article in a new series on how to run a family farm successfully, Trevor Dickinson, CEO of specialist consultancy Family Legacies, writes that the key to a profitable, long-lasting business is to start a family conversation about succession planning. And this needs to happen sooner rather than later.
A zero-emission electric loader
JCB recently launched its first-ever electric Loadall model, a sign that the expansion of its E-TECH range of zero-emissions machines is gathering pace.
How satellite data can boost agriculture
The use of Earth observation has brought about dramatic improvements in agricultural practices and access to water. A new report published by the World Economic Forum details how Earth observations are fundamental to harnessing the innovations of the Fourth Industrial Revolution to support agricultural productivity growth across Africa.
Beware of these avocado diseases
Phytophthora root rot, stem canker, anthracnose and Cercospora spot are the diseases most likely to attack avocado trees in South Africa.
Improve your cell phone coverage with SmartBoosters SA
SmartBoosters SA offers homes and businesses enhanced mobile phone coverage. The company offers high-quality signal boosters that deliver the best and most reliable cell phone reception.
Growing cucumbers
Cucumbers make an excellent and refreshing addition to salads, especially during summer months. So why not grow your own?
Controlling fungus on Cripps Pink apples
A recent study of the effect of two pesticides on Phylctema vagabunda, a fungus that causes significant post-harvest losses of the Cripps Pink apple cultivar, revealed interesting results. Dr Alana den Breeyen and Dr Julia Meitz-Hopkins explain.
Boots or shoes? Let Bata help you decide
When choosing between safety boots and safety shoes, you need to consider a few important factors. Here’s Bata’s guide to making the right choice for your circumstances!
State of SA’s agri-parks again under scrutiny
The expenditure on agri-parks by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (agriculture department) came under scrutiny during a recent meeting of Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development.
Double-chocolate brownies
These are the best brownies in the world, and will have your family coming back for more, says Janine Ryan. They have a fudge-like texture and are packed with chocolate!
COVID-19 and disillusionment: the impending crisis of unskilled youths
The present generation of youth has endured a number of profoundly disruptive global events during their lifetime, the latest of which is the COVID-19 pandemic. Leaders need to initiate efforts to assist young people to acquire the tools, skills and rights to find work and cope in the post-pandemic world, or else risk having an angry and disillusioned ‘lost generation’, warns the latest Global Risks Report.
