Digital disruption of the agri value chain
Since October 2016, half the world’s population has been connected to the Internet. However, at only 30%, the number of connected people in Africa is still lower than the world average.
Population increase but not enough food
The farming sector generally views population growth as an opportunity rather than a challenge.
Introducing the Plantix plant doctor app
Up to 30% of crop yields are lost worldwide each year due to plant diseases and pests, says Simone Strey, CEO of Peat.
A message for the drought fund thieves
A survey by Agri SA and its provincial affiliates has started to lift the lid on the extent of corruption that occurred during the allocation and spending of money intended to support drought relief efforts.
The benefits of ecological beef cattle farming
Dr André Mentz, animal scientist and author of the book, Ecological Cattle Farming – A roadmap to sustainable cattle farming, says that ecologically friendly beef cattle production is now more important than ever, yet is largely ignored in favour of intensive systems. This is to the detriment of both the producer and the sector at large.
Agriculture does interest the youth
During May, I visited both the NAMPO Harvest Day agricultural show in Bothaville and the Royal Show in Pietermaritzburg, and one thing that was abundantly clear to me at both these events was the enthusiasm for farming amongst young people.
Are South Africans full of themselves?
South Africa has long traded on its self-proclaimed status of being the gateway for foreign investment into Africa.
SA’s disaster relief system: making a bad situation worse
The release of disaster relief funds is a contentious issue in South Africa, writes Dr Christo Coetzee, researcher and lecturer at the North-West University’s African Centre for Disaster Management. According to him, the country needs a proactive approach to disaster relief to ensure a sustainable, profitable agricultural industry, and to safeguard food security.
Recommendations for the control of problem animals
The South African Hunters and Game Conservation Association (SA Hunters) has proposed a number of amendments to the norms and standards for controlling damage-causing animals under the National Environmental Management, Biodiversity Act. Public comment was invited by Minister of Environmental Affairs, Edna Molewa.
Land reform: a clear purpose, but no plan
The most frustrating aspect of the current status of the land reform process is the total lack of any clear plan or vision for the road ahead.
Coffee with Mantashe
I was recently paid a visit by an Eastern Cape farmer who is an ardent reader of the Farmer’s Weekly. You might know him better as the secretary-general of the ANC.
Tell a story and turn your produce into a brand
To capture the increasingly discerning consumer market, farmers have to learn how to use public relations and social media strategies effectively. Public relations expert and journalist, Brian Berkman, provides some valuable insights.
