Crops

Contributing to the dignity of women in agriculture is about much more than simply promoting gender equality, says Elizabeth Ralefatane, a programme coordinator at the Seriti Institute.

Sorghum can transform rural economies by boosting food security, supporting local processing, and enhancing soil health. Nate Blum, CEO of Sorghum United, spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel about the potential of this drought-resistant grain.

You can add value with product differentiation, and it’s possible with every product under the sun. Don’t be discouraged by naysayers, writes Peter Hughes.

DA leader and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen spoke to Glenneis Kriel about his priorities for his department over the next five years, including an increased focus on biosecurity.

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen can build on the foundation of the previous administration and implement a comprehensive strategy that prioritises transformation, writes Lukhanyo Nkombisa, general manager of the Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa’s Grower Development Company.

Whether you are a small, medium, or large farmer, you can differentiate your products and your business. Obliterate from your mind the myth that differentiation is only possible for some farmers, says Peter Hughes.

Battery energy storage system solutions enable farmers and agro-processors to store excess solar energy generated during the day and use it during peak demand periods, when electricity prices are higher.

While issues like climate change are crucial, seeds – the foundation of most of the food value chain – deserve attention, writes Dr Lukeshni Chetty, general manager of the South African National Seed Organization.

Predation Management SA coordinates livestock and wildlife predation control through training, research, and partnerships with hunters and conservationists, developing solutions for protection and preservation.

Transformation in the fresh produce sector faces a significant challenge in that small-scale producers are unable to stay the course. Lindi Botha reports on how overwhelming obstacles, such as defunct government infrastructure and the high cost of food safety compliance, are shattering these farmers’ prospects for success.

Daneel Rossouw, head of sales for agriculture at Nedbank Commercial Banking, explores how conservation agriculture (CA) could significantly improve the sustainability of South African agriculture.

Precision irrigation delivers water directly to plant roots, maximising efficiency and sustainability in agriculture. Zunel van Eeden spoke to Netafim South Africa’s Charl van Reenen about this irrigation technique, which can help South African farmers address the challenges brought about by a water shortage.

Marketing is not a ‘shoot-from-the-hip’ activity. It needs expert management, and many farmers are not good at it. But upgrading your skill in this area is crucial to the success of your business, writes Peter Hughes.

South Africa’s thriving macadamia export industry requires specialised insurance. Werner Bezuidenhout of Aon South Africa highlights the crucial role of stock throughput cover to safeguard the entire supply chain, ensuring quality from farm to consumer.

Coal-based power is the main source of carbon emissions in fruit production. With the carbon tax looming over South Africa’s export markets, the shift to renewable energy is all the more urgent. However, as Lindi Botha reports, Eskom has few such plans in place.

Dr George Craven of Noorspoort, Steytlerville, in the south-eastern Karoo, is successfully using a home-built ‘bedstead seeder’ to re-establish veld plants in an arid area, writes Roelof Bezuidenhout.

Bruce Hart of SOS Contractors explains how Husqvarna’s high-volume water pumps can be used to safeguard forests and tackle fire emergencies.

Regular and thorough cleaning of solar panels is vital to get the best from your solar system, and to comply with warranty requirements. When dust, leaves and bird droppings accumulate on the panels, it can limit how much light is absorbed, reducing your solar system’s performance by up to 25%. With STIHL, this essential task is made faster, easier and more effective.

By investing in renewable energy, farmers can meet carbon standards and secure their place in global markets.

South Africa’s growing cannabis industry and government’s active investment in production highlight the economic value it holds for the country. This has necessitated the introduction of legislation and a regulatory framework to ensure that the production and use of cannabis for private purposes are properly regulated. Nicolette van Vuuren and Jamie Jacobs, partner and associate, respectively, at Webber Wentzel, write.