Staff Reporter
Why can’t that cow stand up?
A number of diseases and conditions can result in cattle and other ruminants being unable to stand up.
Farming without government support
In many countries, farmers are supported in various ways by government. South Africa’s real competition lies not in these largely inefficient farming systems, but in other unsubsidised countries such as Australia, Chile and New Zealand.
Tour to AgriTech, Israel 2018
(Bookings are closed) Join the Farmer’s Weekly tour to the Tel Aviv, Israel for the AgriTech Show the 6 - 11 May 2018.
Botswana contravening UN declaration on agricultural funding
Farmers in Botswana have expressed concern about that country’s government continuing to allocate low budgets to the agricultural sector.
Using ‘cow power’ to make your dairy farm self-sufficient
Manure can be used to produce biogas, electricity and fertiliser. In the process, you will recycle nutrients and increase profits while reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Astral anticipates markedly improved half-year results
Various factors are expected to result in Astral Foods (Astral) posting what the JSE-listed company described as a “marked improvement” in its financial results for the six months ending 31 March 2018.
National parks for all seasons!
Experience South Africa’s national parks when they are at their best this coming year, says Taryn Arnott van Jaarsveld and René de Klerk.
From a tiny plot to a thriving commercial farm
Former extension officer, Sithembele Malgas, started farming in the Idutywa area of the former Transkei in 1990. Today, he produces cabbages, spinach and butternut in rotation on 3,5ha under irrigation and farms more than 500 beef cows near Cathcart in the Eastern Cape.
Budget 2018: no mention of land expropriation
Despite the announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa in the State of the Nation Address that the ANC would urgently pursue policy reforms that would pave the way for the expropriation of land without compensation, the figures presented in the 2018 budget indicated that it would be business as usual at the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR) for the next three years at least.
‘A tough, but hopeful #budget2018’ – Gigaba
The 2018 national budget, tabled by Minister of Finance, Malusi Gigaba, in Parliament today proposes several interventions that will ensure improved fiscal health and economic growth for the country in future, but all South Africans will have to pay to make this happen and change won’t happen overnight.
Imported genetics: a winning strategy for top Angus breeder
The Sid Knott Red and Black Angus studs in the Eastern Cape were founded on top genetics sourced from the US and New Zealand. Over the years, their progeny have been bred to thrive in South Africa’s harsh conditions. Mike Burgess visited the family farm, Wolseley Estate, to speak to the stud’s founder, Sid Knott.
Oyster mushroom farming: an affordable start-up
Yolandi Joubert’s oyster mushroom operation, launched just three years ago, is an important lesson in what passion and discipline can achieve in small-scale agriculture.
When to postpone a disciplinary hearing
Holding a disciplinary hearing must follow due process. This includes taking into account when to postpone the hearing.
Bacterial blight of cowpeas
This is one of the most destructive diseases of cowpeas, according to Dr Alina Mofokeng of the Agricultural Research Council’s Grain Crops Institute.
Malabo Report stresses need to manage climate change
The first Malabo Biennial Report on the Malabo Commitment to accelerate agricultural growth and transformation in Africa was released last month.
Delicious chicken ragu
This combination of ingredients with pasta makes a fine supper for four to five people. And no, it’s not just another version of spaghetti bolonaise…
How income and price changes affect demand
Higher income leads to increased demand for agricultural products. But in South Africa, demand growth is currently limited by the sharp increase in non-food prices due to lower supply.
Producing pulses: the benefits do outweigh the costs
Many SA farmers are unaware of the profitability and other benefits of pulses such as cowpea, groundnut and soya bean. As a result, these plants are neglected as crop alternatives, says Phonnie du Toit, chief research technician at the Agricultural Research Council in Potchefstroom.
Understanding the basics of livestock farming
Many novice farmers make the mistake of not starting off with the best possible animals in terms of genetics and environmental suitability, says Shane Brody.
Pioneer style, modern comfort retirement home
Here is a sketch of a three-bedroom traditional exterior and conventional interior retirement home, with open-plan areas and en-suite bathrooms.
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