Farmer's Inside Track

From farm to fork: Why sustainable red meat matters

12 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If you think farming has nothing to do with your dinner plate, think again.In this episode, we’re crossing over to our sister publication, Food For ...

Wine industry and lessons in skills and mentorship

11 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

After 44 years in agriculture and over two decades in the wine industry, Rydal Jeftha, managing director of Koopmanskloof Wines, knows that the future...

Water in your oil isn’t always good: Addressing waterlogging

09 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we dive into one of the most overlooked threats to crop production, free water or gravitational water, and how it affects South Afric...

Legal landmines: Essential tips for new-era farmers

02 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we sit down with legal expert Pearl Gibbs, an attorney, conveyancer, and notary public, who unpacks the most pressing legal challenge...

Animal health: Treating endoparasites in ruminants

26 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we chat to Kevin Pieterse, an experienced farm manager and Kyron Agri representative, who unpacks practical strategies for controllin...

Bricklayer-turned-cattle farmer: Anton’s story will move you

19 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

From laying bricks to paving his own path to success, Anton Saunderson’s story is one of vision and transformation.In this episode, we meet a man wh...

Certified seed: Why one bad seed can ruin everything

14 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

One bad seed can ruin everything. In this episode, part of a special SANSOR campaign, we unpack why seed certification matters more than you might thi...

Mastering aquaponics

12 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we dive into sustainable farming with MJ Nunes, founder of Sable Creek Farms. From system design and crop selection to fish stocking,...

From school gardens to commercial farming success

05 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we spotlight Awdalia – a 100% youth- and black women-owned agribusiness rooted in resilience and driven by purpose. Founded in...

Pecan nut farming: Starting your own pecan orchard

28 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we sit down with seasoned farmer Richard Ball, who shares tips on how to start pecan nut farming. With close to two decades of h...

Matika’s avocado dream grows in Limpopo

21 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this inspiring episode of Farmers Inside Track, we travel to Vondo village in Limpopo’s Vhembe district, where we meet Matika Khathutshelo, the p...

Selecting the right maize variety

14 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we delve into the crucial topic of selecting the right maize varieties for South Africa's diverse farming environments. Maize is not ...

Digitising outgrower schemes: How sproot is transforming contract farming in Africa

09 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Many outgrower schemes across Africa still rely on outdated, paper-based systems that create inefficiencies and missed opportunities. But sproot, a gr...

Carbon and sustainability: The future of agriculture

09 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In an era of environmental awareness, Absa’s latest AgriTrends report explores the growing importance of carbon footprints in agriculture and what i...

Vegetables and market shifts: The road ahead

09 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ivor Price sits down with Absa’s agricultural economists to discuss major shifts in South Africa’s vegetable market, including the impact of Botsw...

High-value exports: What’s next for SA’s top commodities

09 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Absa’s agricultural economists reveal the winners of 2024 and what’s ahead for South Africa’s high-value exports, including citrus, macadamias, ...

Livestock markets: Trends, challenges, and opportunities

09 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

From beef and pork to mutton and eggs, Absa’s powerhouse team of agricultural economists dive into the factors influencing South Africa’s livestoc...

Grain and oilseed markets: The new reality

09 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

With global prices falling, what lies ahead for local farmers? Absa’s experts join Ivor Price to reveal key strategies for staying competitive in a ...

Global trade shifts: What SA farmers need to know

09 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

A powerhouse team of Absa agricultural economists unpacks the latest AgriTrends report, analyzing President Donald Trump’s tariffs, shifting US poli...

From Limpopo to SA: Madima’s fruit market expansion

07 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this special on-the-road edition of Farmer’s Inside Track, we catch up with Khuliso Madima, a passionate fruit farmer in Thohoyandou, Limpopo.&nb...

How microbes and aggregates boost your soil

31 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we dive into the fascinating world of soil health with Dr Buhlebelive Mndzebele, a crop science researcher at the Agricultural Researc...

Sansor: Goss’s wilt and what farmers should know

28 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we tackle a disease every maize farmer needs to know about: Goss’s wilt. Our guest, Dr Rikus Kloppers, private consultant at R...

Celebrating 500 episodes of Farmers Inside Track Podcast

24 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Farmers Inside Track has officially hit 500 episodes and we couldn’t have done it without you, our amazing listeners. In this special milestone...

The business of poultry: Marketing, pricing, and branding tips

17 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, poultry farmer and agriculturalist Kamogelo Thobejane shares expert insights on marketing, pricing, branding, and financial managemen...

Behind the beef: Responsible animal farming and ethical meat

12 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we take you on a journey behind the scenes of South Africa’s red meat supply chain. We explore the vital role our farmers play in b...

Commercial grain and wine farmer shares secrets to success

10 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we sit down with Rennie Brink, a commercial grain, wine, and livestock farmer from the Western Cape, who runs Groot Phesantekraal wit...

PayCentral: A financial solution for farm owners

08 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we sit down with Veenash Parbhoo, co-founder of PayCentral and Marketing Manager at Leandri Matthews, to explore how fintech solution...

Why phosphate matters for cattle and sheep

07 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Food For Mzansi speaks with Neale White, a technical sales advisor at Molatek, about the often-overlooked role of phosphate in the he...

Propak Africa: Witness packaging, food processing, and printing innovation

05 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Anderson, portfolio director for Propak Africa, gives us an exclusive preview of the highly anticipated exhibition set to take p...

Bud rot and the law: What South African farmers need to know

03 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Farmers Inside Track, we speak with attorney Lucinda Rhoodie about the legal and trade implications of bud rot (Phytophthora palmiv...

Sustainable farming: Woolworths inspires Andile to farm for the future

28 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

n this episode, we explore the heart of sustainability in agriculture through the eyes of an influential advocate for change.In this moving conversati...

Lufuno farms with purpose to empower youth in agriculture

24 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Farmers Insight Track podcast, Duncan Masiwa sits down with Lufuno Nethsikhudini, a passionate Limpopo-based farmer. Lufuno is ...

Conservation agriculture: Practical tips for livestock success

17 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore how livestock farmers can boost productivity and resilience by integrating conservation agriculture into their operations....

Fruit SA CEO on the industry’s future

14 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we sit down with Fruit SA CEO, Fhumulani Ratshitanga to explore the vital role of South Africa's fresh fruit industry in driving sust...

Pesticide producers: Understanding the extended producer responsibility regulations

12 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Farmers Inside Track, we unpack the impact of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations on the plant protection industry w...

How Tim helps community gardeners prepare for climate challenges

10 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of our Meet The Farming Mentor series, we introduce Tim Abaa, a visionary farmer and community leader dedicated to teaching people of ...

Cutworms vs crops: The battle and how to win

03 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we delve into the world of cutworms, a troublesome pest that poses a serious threat to crops. Entomologist and PhD candidate Blessing...

Dwayne Kaschula, the commercial farmer who does it all

27 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of our Meet the Farmer Mentor Series, we’re joined by Dwayne Kaschula, whose innovative and diversified approach to farming has made...

Abattoir management: Helping farmers understand the Meat Safety Act

20 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we delve into South Africa's Meat Safety Act of 2000 - a vital piece of legislation designed to regulate meat production, processing,...

Mdibani Masilela's path from 60 to 166 hectares of soybeans

13 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we hear from Mdibani Masilela, a grain farmer who began his journey in 2022 with a modest 60 hectares of soybeans, despite having 160...

Unlock the potential of your soil with soil sampling

06 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we chat with Hamond Motsi, a PhD candidate in Soil Science at Stellenbosch University, about the vital role of soil sampling in agric...

Spilling hemp tea with agripreneur and farmer Kitso Monyadi

30 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we catch up with the incredible Kitso Monyadi, co-founder of Botlhale Ba Rra-mmutla Farms.Our casual conversation takes place on the ...

Cattle management: Tips on dehorning, disbudding cattle

23 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, experienced livestock farmer and animal scientist Ashell Maenetja shares his expert advice on dehorning and disbudding cattle.Discove...

Transporting pesticides: What every farmer needs to know

18 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we dive into the critical topic of transporting crop protection products safely and responsibly. South African farmers play a vital r...

Born to farm: A 21-year-old farmer’s life on the land

16 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Farmers Inside Track, we meet Kagiso Munaka, a 21-year-old young farmer who has been farming since the age of 11 and knows no ...

Palesa's brave fight: Battling hazardous substances in our townships

12 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Dive into the gripping story of Palesa’s Brave Fight Against Deadly Poisons with the powerful audio version of this must-read booklet. Immerse yours...

Repo rate basics: What every farmer should know

09 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Farmers in South Africa face unique financial challenges, especially in managing loans and investments. The cost of credit plays a critical role in fa...

Drip irrigation tips for small-scale farmers

04 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we delve into the value of drip irrigation for small-scale crop farmers and explore how this innovative solution can transform their ...

Building a dairy empire from 20 to 2 000 cows

02 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we sit down with Barry Schiever, co-owner of Foundation Farm, a family-run dairy in Weenen, KwaZulu-Natal. From humble beginnings with...

Cape honeybee, a ‘rock star’ in world of science

25 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we focus on the role of honeybees, particularly the unique Cape honeybee, in sustaining South Africa’s agriculture and ecosystems. H...

Indoor cannabis farming made simpler with LED technology

20 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

South Africa’s cannabis industry is lighting up the horticultural landscape, offering immense potential for local farmers. In this episode of Farmer...

Loyiso makes a big splash in Mzansi’s olive oil industry

18 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we dig deep into the inspiring story behind Ubuntu Extra virgin olive oil, and its founder, Loyiso Manga. Driven by a passion to make...

The promise of genome-edited crops for small-scale farmers

16 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Explore the transformative potential of genome-edited crops and their benefits for small-scale farmers. This discussion features industry experts...

Tomato crops: Tips on combating Tuta absoluta pest

11 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, entomology expert Blessing Mphahlele, a PhD candidate at the University of Pretoria, shares vital insights for tomato farmers combati...

Producing and processing for the halaal meat market

08 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we speak with Muhammad Ghoor, founder of the Meatcart, a Johannesburg-based butcher. Ghoor shares his expertise on the requireme...

Thabo Dithakgwe’s success with Voermol Feeds in Kalahari

06 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Farmers Inside Track, Dr Josef van Wyngaard, Technical Manager at Voermol Feeds, joins North West’s young livestock farmer Thabo ...

What farmers should know about water quality

04 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Good quality irrigation water is crucial for the health of your crops and the longevity of irrigation equipment. In this episode, Dexter Neethling, pr...

Choosing the right irrigation equipment

01 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today's agricultural landscape, precision, efficiency, and sustainability are more crucial than ever. With rising input costs, narrowing profit mar...

How Sheena turned her nursery into a R3 Million business

31 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Since its inception in 2022, Tri Toad Nursery has been a game changer in the commercial seedling and plant industry. Under the inspiring leadership of...

Harnessing technology to combat livestock theft

30 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we are joined by Tumelo Makgaka, CEO and founder of Leruo. Makgaka discusses how technology has become instrumental and accessible in...

Guide to applying for Land Bank’s Agro-Energy Fund

28 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

As energy costs soar, farmers are feeling the pressure to find sustainable solutions that keep their operations profitable. In this episode, we break ...

Chester Fisch: Farmworker’s golden voice inspires agriculture

26 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this special episode, we sit down with Chester Fisch, the newly crowned winner of Agri’s Got Talent 2024, as he takes us behind the scenes of his...

Maximising Profits: A guide to marketing your cattle

25 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this insightful episode, we speak with Khomotso Mashiloane, Livestock Technical Advisor for the Red Meat Industry Services. Mashiloane offers valua...

Agricultural workers shine in Agri’s Got Talent competition

24 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this special episode, we catch up with five incredible contestants from the 2024 Agri’s Got Talent competition: Arno du Toit, Chanthel Boonzaaier...

Ben Otukile's Voermol advantage for healthier livestock

23 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

North West farmer, Ben Otukile’s solution for issues like poor condition and unexpected illnesses is Voermol Feeds.In this episode, he shares his cu...

Rising tide of ginger: Opportunities for African producers

21 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the booming global demand for ginger and its impact on agricultural economies worldwide. Join us as we sit down with Nozip...

Stars of Agri’s Got Talent share their journeys

19 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this special episode, we catch up with five incredible contestants from the 2024 Agri’s Got Talent competition: Chester Fisch, Lungelo Sithole, D...

Crop protection and pest control methods

18 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Drawing on his extensive experience in farm management and his work as an agronomist and horticulturist, Tapiwa Masimba delves into the subject of cro...

Agricultural remedies regulations: What you need to know

16 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we delve into the new regulations for agricultural remedies introduced in 2023, marking a significant shift for South Africa’s agri...

Pasture rotation and tick-borne disease in cattle

14 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we delve into an essential topic for livestock farmers and animal health professionals: controlling tick-borne diseases, such as anap...

Powering Up: How Farmers can benefit from Agro-Energy Fund

11 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we delve into a game-changing opportunity for South African farmers – the Agro-Energy Fund. Craig Harrison, provincial head of Land...

Beyond the fields: Opportunities in essential oil market

09 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Karen Swanepoel, the Executive Director of the Southern African Essential Oil Producer Association (SAEOPA), explores the vibrant landscape of essenti...

Hazardous Substances Act: What farmers should know about pesticides

07 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

South African farmers must comply with the Hazardous Substances Act of 1973 when using pesticides, especially Group 1 Category B products. In thi...

Careers in agriculture with All4YouthSSA and All4Hustler

04 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we highlight the "Opportunities for Youth" initiative by ALL4YOUTH and Nestlé, exploring how it helps guide the youth in agriculture...

Fourth-generation farmer reveals data is key to his success strategy

03 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Jurie Giliomee, a fourth-generation farmer from the Bredasdorp area in the Western Cape, shares the story of his family farm and how ...

Seasoned pig farmer shares profitable breeding practices

02 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Pig farming can be a profitable venture when approached with careful planning and knowledge, particularly in the areas of breeding and genetics.In thi...

Farmer mental health: Why you should care

30 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we dive into the crucial topic of farmer health and the challenges facing farming communities in South Africa. Joining us is grain fa...

Land Bank’s bold steps towards a resilient future.

27 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, recorded live at Nampo Cape 2024, we’re joined by leaders from Land Bank. We hear from Themba Rikhotso, CEO of Land Bank, as he ref...

How Fairtrade certification empowers South African farmers

25 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we’re joined by Sandra Ndlovu, regional communication officer for Southern Africa at Fairtrade Africa. Sandra recently sat down wit...

Building a robust and inclusive wine industry

24 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we’re joined by Rico Basson, chief executive officer of South Africa Wine whose mission it is to enable the wine industry to become...

Maximise farm efficiency with production planning

23 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Production planning is essential to optimise resource use, minimise waste, and ensure consistent yields. It helps farmers align their farming practice...

A chilli farmer’s guide to agro-processing success

20 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we highlight Mogamat Abrahams, a chilli farmer from the Western Cape, as we explore the world of chilli production and the benefits o...

Zabion’s winning formula for diversification

19 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we speak with Zabion De Wee, a Free State livestock farmer who also grows sunflowers and watermelons.With an impressive diversificati...

SA’s agricultural chemical phase-out: What farmers should know

18 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we delve into the phase-out of hazardous agricultural chemicals, specifically those classified under CMR 1A and 1B, known for their p...

Mastering wine export with industry veteran Willem Hendricks

17 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we’re joined by Willem Hendricks, the owner and trainer at WH Consulting, who brings over 31 years of experience in the wine export...

Tips on succeeding at livestock auctions

16 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Livestock auctions can be daunting, especially for new-era farmers. To help you thrive in this critical aspect of agriculture, we’re joined by agric...

The hard work behind developing agricultural seeds in South Africa

13 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we sit down with Lukeshni Chetty, General Manager of the South African National Seed Organisation (SANSOR), to explore the intricate ...

Tips to keep gestating cows healthy

11 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Abortions in a herd can be frustrating for any cattle farmer. In this episode, Kenneth Malatji, animal health technician for Afrivet, provides valuabl...

Corina's path to wine biotechnology and people development

10 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we’re excited to welcome Corina du Toit, a seasoned professional with an impressive background in the wine industry. With an MSc in...

Voermol feeds boosts Mudau’s livestock health and market edge

09 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Emmanuel Mudau, a livestock farmer from Limpopo, reveals how Voermol Feeds transformed his farm. Facing high mortality rates among hi...

The power of soil, leaf, and water analysis in agriculture

07 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we delve into the role of soil analysis in agriculture with Werner Rossouw, technical manager for AECI Plant Health in the northern r...

Introduction to digital farming in irrigation

06 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discover the benefits of automation, the evolution of irrigation technology, and insights into dosing systems, fertigation, and controllers.In this ep...

Letsitsa’s fields of happiness and commercial farming success

05 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Farmers Inside Track, we explore the story of Petrus Happy Letsitsa, a former financial advisor who swapped banking for commercial ...

Boost rural communities through aquaculture

04 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Rural community development is crucial to South Africa's broader socio-economic transformation.Discover how Roana EasyFarm, a youth-led initiative, is...

Nadia Heffer: Reviving old vines and ensuring wine farm sustainability

03 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we meet Nadia Heffer, who holds a BC in Viticulture and Oenology from Stellenbosch University and an MBA in responsible management fr...

Young farmer supports farmers in effective storytelling

02 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In a small Swiss hotel garden, with the Jungfrau mountains standing tall in the background, Michaela Sandmayr, a grain and crop farmer based in Austri...

Dive into drone technology

30 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Agriculture remains a key driver and beneficiary of technological innovations. In this episode, we speak to Thulani Magida, the founder of Juta Agrite...

Ensuring compliance with pesticide disposal regulations

28 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Join us as we delve into critical compliance issues under the National Environmental Management: Waste Act. This important legislation classifies pest...

Rising star: Ruth Faro's impact on South African wine industry

27 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Ruth Faro, a seasoned veteran of the wine industry with nine years of experience. Faro’s jour...

Farm safety: How to protect your agribusiness from cyber threats

26 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, agritech entrepreneur Ziphezinhle Gabuza explores the critical topic of digital safety in agriculture. Learn about the most common di...