Photo: FW Archive
Every new year presents an opportunity to reflect, improve and respond to the shifting landscape of agriculture.
In 2026, Farmer’s Weekly is embracing this challenge with renewed focus and purpose.
We are pleased to share the editorial direction that will guide both our print and digital platforms in the year ahead, an approach designed to meet the fast-evolving needs of the sector, while maintaining our long-standing commitment to delivering reliable, accurate and uplifting content to readers across Southern Africa and beyond.
A recent visit to the launch of a state-of the- art solar plant installed by 2 Zero 50 Solar at Mooigezicht farm in the Hex River Valley illustrated the pace and scale of change now shaping our industry.
The event, attended by Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen, underscored this momentum. Steenhuisen noted that projects such as the Mooigezicht installation represent precisely why government has invested heavily in the Agro-Energy Fund, to assist farmers in reducing their reliance on the grid for more profitable, sustainable farming.
Lived reality on many farms
Mooketsa Ramasodi, director-general of the Department of Agriculture, emphasised that technological evolution is no longer a distant concept, but rather a lived reality on many farms. He highlighted the importance of information-sharing, knowledge exchange and community experience in enabling farmers and agribusinesses to make sound decisions.
As an agricultural fraternity, we have long learned from one another, and Farmer’s Weekly fully supports this ethos. It is inthis spirit that our expanded technology editorial channel for 2026 was conceived.
In the coming year, Farmer’s Weekly will strengthen its coverage of artificial intelligence (AI) and agricultural technology. With rapid advances unfolding both globally and regionally, we will broaden our reporting on digital tools designed for crop and livestock management, feature case studies that illustrate real-world implementation, and provide insights from experts on technology adoption, investment trends and capacity development.
This enhanced focus represents our commitment to supporting farmers as they navigate an increasingly technology-driven sector. We may not yet have all the answers, but we look forward to exploring this journey alongside you, our readers.
At the same time, innovation will not overshadow the foundational knowledge that remains central to farming success. Following numerous requests received at regional Agri 5 Expos in September, October and November 2025, Farmer’s Weekly will place renewed emphasis on back-to-basics and how-to content in 2026.
Readers can expect practical guidance on essential production practices, step-by-step articles across livestock, crop and agribusiness disciplines, and tailored advice for both emerging and established producers.
Balanced editorial approach
Our balanced editorial approach will be reflected across both print and digital platforms. Each print edition will be supported by complementary online content, expanded analysis, additional technical detail and multimedia where appropriate, ensuring deeper insight and a more connected reading experience.
In addition, Farmer’s Weekly will launch several new reader clubs in 2026, providing exclusive resources, networking opportunities and specialised content. The year will also feature a series of farmer information days, themed expos and sector-specific knowledge-sharing events.
As agricultural trade across borders continues to expand, so too will our editorial footprint to sub-Saharan Africa, with more online reporting on regional production trends, market developments, and success stories from farmers and agri-entrepreneurs throughout the region.
For more than a century, Farmer’s Weekly has been a trusted source of agricultural information. As we enter 2026 with renewed vision, our dedication to publishing high-quality, accurate and service-oriented content remains unwavering. We look forward to delivering a year of journalism that informs, supports and inspires the farming community throughout South Africa and the wider Southern African region.
