Empowerment projects: successful & sustainable
Transformation through share-equity schemes seems the best way of empowering people.
Farmers secrets to success
Official statistics aside, there seems to be a wide gulf between farmers who are doing well and those who are not. What are successful farmers doing right?
Sustainable farming
Caring for farm workers, the environment and one’s finances are all key to farming sustainably. In future, however, these factors will be even more crucial.
Good news for livestock farmers
The lower grain prices expected during 2013/2014 will be a boon for livestock producers hard hit by drought and high input costs.
Be an African optimist
The growing African market provides numerous opportunities for South African agriculture.
Getting your costing right
Farmers should use cost analyses carefully and should always avoid making decisions based solely on short-term data.
Agri sectors experience global economic growth
In spite of weaker global and local economic growth, several agricultural sectors have experienced higher returns and will continue to do so.
Don’t neglect your livestock
Producers should not be led astray by good crop yields and higher prices for grains.
Managing a weaker rand
The devaluation of the currency will increase your income as well as your costs.
The many roles of farming
Agriculture is no longer merely a supplier of food, fuel and fibre – it plays a huge multifunctional role. Our government, however, doesn’t realise this.
Maize uncertainty
Maize producers and maize users will have to watch the markets carefully in coming months.
Efficiency measures for farmers
Efficiency measures are necessary right now, but all decisions should be taken on a ‘total farm’ basis.
Fight back with technology
Only those who constantly strive to improve the efficiency of their farms will survive.
Farm management
Believe it or not, farmers frequently find it more difficult to manage a good year than a bad one.
Why food prices are high
When it comes to high food inflation we need to look at the retail sector’s dominance of the supply chain if we’re to set matters right.
Being a farmer is risky
Farming is a risky business, but the rewards for those prepared to take the plunge are great.
Farm debt – good or bad?
At some stage, most successful farmers have taken a big risk and borrowed more than the calculations showed that they should – and you’ll invariably find this resulted in fast...
How we can help save South Africa
A recent FAO report clearly shows the huge role agriculture can play in reducing poverty and hunger and promoting stability. However, this will need pro-active action by government.
Rich farmer, poor worker?
A recently released survey clearly shows that while agriculture isn’t a highly profitable business, farm workers’ wages increased by 24% per capita in 2011.
Spreading the word
Commercial agriculture’s survival amid political uncertainty depends on South Africa’s people. If we keep our stories to ourselves, we won’t win the public’s sympathy and support.
