Isuzu makes a splash in the Eastern Cape
In the Wild Coast region, where very poor roads and rough conditions are the norm, Isuzu trucks are valued for their ruggedness and reliability.
The dos and don’ts of owning a firearm
South Africa has strict legislation governing the licensing, purchase and use of a firearm. Magda du Toit explores the rules and official processes that regulate gun ownership, and speaks to experts in the field.
Bacterial wilt: a threat in tropical and subtropical areas
Once bacterial wilt has infected tomato plants, there is no way to stop its spread. Prevention is the only option, says Bill Kerr.
Give your farm security a high-tech boost
Rural crime, including stock theft, can be fought or prevented by working together as a community and employing high-tech security systems. Willie Clack, vice-chairperson of the Red Meat Producers’ Organisation, and Francois van Zyl, marketing manager at Etse Electronics, spoke to Susan Marais.
Biosecurity protocols to combat livestock diseases
Communal farmers need to work together to devise biosecurity protocols and make sure they apply to everyone. This is the only way to keep the communal herd free of diseases, says Shane Brody.
‘Go-to tractors’ for dairy farmers
Nick Stubbs owns and runs a large dairy in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, and says a reliable tractor is vital to his operation’s success.
Smallholders’ role in protecting our forests
According to a new report, smallholders and indigenous peoples can be effective forest managers, as they occupy nearly half of the world’s forest and farm landscapes and are often invested in these areas.
Soil health: crucial for future food production
Healthy soil is a key driver of farm productivity, profits, and sustainable food production. Dr Hendrik Smith explained to Magda du Toit how farmers can improve the health and fertility of their soils.
Farmers hold together the fabric of society
I have made no secret of the fact that I find the world’s treatment of farmers deplorable. This treatment of the people who produce our food and the fibre for our clothing, as well as employ vast swathes of the world’s population, is particularly egregious when it comes to governments.
A vaccine bank could reduce disease panic
Dr Baty Dungu believes South Africa should take lessons from countries that have been using stockpiles for years to ensure adequate vaccine supplies before outbreaks occur.
Citrus: a long-term vision for traditional communities
Thanks to a financial boost from various public and private entities, the Majeje Citrus company will be able to fully participate in one of South Africa’s most important agricultural industries within the next five years.
Drakensberger cattle: ‘An all-rounder like no other’
Drakensberger cattle pulled the Voortrekkers’ wagons on their epic journeys to South Africa’s inland regions in the 19th century. Susan Marais visited Petrus Taljaard of Talman Drakensbergers in Mpumalanga to find out more about his love for this breed, and how he deals with cattle diseases and the area’s harsh winters.
