Farmer's Inside Track
Episodes
What is quality seed after all
15 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Many farmers believe that quality crops start with quality seeds. But what exactly makes a seed "quality"?In this episode, powered by the South Africa...
Rabies in livestock: What farmers should know
12 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we speak with Dr Didi Claassen, the general manager of Afrivet Training and Technical Services. She provides crucial updates on the i...
Sizo Tshabalala’s success in poultry farming
11 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Sizo Tshabalala, a man of grand ambitions, is also a prominent farmer. As a first-generation poultry farmer on communal land in Elukwatini, Mpumalanga...
Veld fires: Guidelines to stay prepared
10 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, wildfire consultant manager from the Winelands Fire Protection Association, Dale Nortje, joins us to discuss practical measures farme...
Sandile Mkhwanazi: The educator behind SA’s future winemakers
09 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this insightful episode, we sit down with winemaker and viticulturist Sandile Mkhwanazi. Sandile emphasises the importance of teamwork for the bett...
Tips on setting up your own ostrich farm
08 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Ostrich farming is a significant industry in South Africa, offering extensive opportunities both locally and internationally.In this episode, Kabelo L...
Netafim: The future of precision irrigation is already here
05 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
As a leader in precision irrigation since 1992, Netafim's innovative technologies and services empower producers to boost productivity while minimisin...
Goodwill Mbenyane shares successful crop farming strategies
04 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Goodwill Mbenyane is a renowned farmer and agribusiness expert with a wealth of knowledge and experience in sustainable agriculture. In this epis...
Meet the new minister of agriculture – John Steenhuisen
03 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Hold on to your seats South Africans. We have a new agricultural minister! The agricultural sector has welcomed DA leader, John Steenhuisen, as its ne...
The wine marketing wizardry of Peter Pentz
02 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the South African Wine Industry Professional Body (SAWIPB) series, we meet Peter Pentz, who obtained his degree in communications a...
Slaughtering small livestock 101
01 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we discuss the vital topic of humane treatment and slaughtering of small livestock.Discover best practices, regulatory standards, and...
Dairy farming: Genetic testing to improve dairy farming
28 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Genetic testing is at the forefront of modern dairy farming, promising transformative advancements in productivity, health, and sustainability. As tec...
Inside South Africa's agricultural seed industry
26 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Have you ever wondered who’s behind South Africa’s agricultural seed quality standards? Meet the South African National Seed Organisation (Sansor)...
Karabo Mahlaba brings grandfather's grain farm to new commercial heights
25 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of our Farmer Mentor series, we sit down with Karabo Mahlaba, co-owner of Mahlaba Eagles Farming in Reitz, Free State. Their 300-hecta...
Exploring career dynamics and growth paths in South Africa's wine industry
25 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Dr Karien O'Kennedy, a knowledge and transfer manager at South African Wine, holds a BSc in biochemistry and microbiology. In this episode of the Sout...
Rotational grazing techniques 101
24 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Rotational grazing systems offer significant benefits for pasture health and livestock productivity. By allowing grass time to recover between grazing...
Protect your livestock from poisonous plants
21 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Have you ever worried about your livestock eating something harmful? Dr Asive Luningo is a guardian angel for farmers everywhere.As a clinical assista...
Cannabis Industry: Key developments and strategies
19 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The cannabis industry in South Africa is undergoing rapid growth, driven by substantial legislative changes and burgeoning investment opportunities.Th...
From vines to executive: Denzel Swartz's Inspiring wine industry journey
18 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In another episode of the South African Wine Industry Professional Body (SAWIPB) series, we meet Denzel Swarts, sales and brand executive at ...
What the shocking Cape Town port ranking means for fruit exporters
17 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The shocking low ranking of South African ports on a global index has raised many concerns.Experts say Cape Town port’s official ranking as one of t...
AECI Plant Health: Champion safe pesticide use on your farm
14 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Responsible pesticide-handling practices ensure the safety of farmers, farmworkers, consumers, and the environment.In this episode, McGreggor Ntuli, t...
How DNA technology helps combat livestock theft
12 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Livestock theft has significant financial repercussions for farmers and the agricultural industry. It results in direct losses of valuable animals, wh...
Growing your career in viticulture with SAWIPB's Hanlé Theron
11 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this insightful episode, Hanlé Theron, a lecturer at the Department of Agriculture (Viticulture) at CPUT Wellington Campus, discusses the importan...
Afrivet: Dealing with livestock parasites in winter
10 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Winter is here and during these months, farmers often wonder about the impact of parasites on their livestock. In this episode, we dive into the criti...
Food safety first: Lessons from a poultry farmer
07 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we observe World Food Safety Day and highlight KwaZulu-Natal farmer Ntobeko Mafu’s commitment to empowering aspiring farmers in Kwa...
Cattle: Managing stiffness from bovine ephemeral fever cattle
05 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Are you worried about bovine ephemeral fever (BEF), also known as three-day stiffness in your cattle? In this episode, Dr Sello Maboe, technical ...
SA wine body empowers and certifies farmworkers
04 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Farmworkers toil from sunrise to sundown in the natural beauty of South Africa's vineyards.Many have dedicated years, even decades, of their lives per...
How Nedbank’s agribusiness programme transformed a farmer’s life
03 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
We’ve come to the end of a 12-episode series on Agri SA Enterprises' triumphs and profound influence in the realm of rural development. Over the pas...
How livestock artificial insemination can help improve production
31 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Artificial insemination (AI) in livestock is a significant aspect of modern animal husbandry in South Africa, as it is globally. In this episode, Dr G...
Bonsmara cattle: Thabang’s unique breeding techniques ensures success
30 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Thabang Hlabedi is the farm manager of BaKwa-Hlabedi farm in Gauteng. Alongside his mother, Mme Seline Hlabedi, Thabang oversees operations on a spraw...
Agricultural trends for new-era farmers
29 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Farming, like any industry, evolves with trends in technology, consumer preferences, and global markets. Exploring these trends can help farmers ...
Election 2024: Navigating the future of Limpopo agriculture
27 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
With the 2024 election on the horizon, we delve into the current administration's impact on South African agriculture and what lies ahead. Join us for...
Stop foot rot in its tracks
24 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This episode tackles foot rot, a nasty disease in cattle, sheep, and goats. Dr Rangano Magadu, a veterinary expert from the University of Pretoria, jo...
Southern Oil's Impact on farmworker children's education
22 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Southern Oil doesn’t just produce high-quality products; it also champions the well-being of its community.Through the Canola Trust, it empowers the...
Join Food For Mzansi's premium membership for great benefits
20 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Food For Mzansi has launched its premium membership offering. The publication's marketing manager, Adèle Changuion, discusses the significance o...
Scenting Success: Exploring Mzansi’s essential oils industry
17 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week, we unpack the aromatic world of South Africa’s essential oil industry on Farmer’s Inside Track. Learn about sustainable farming methods...
Ben Otukile: Financial strategies and harnessing human capital
16 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Remember Ben Otukile, the farming and mining engineer who shared his secrets to success?Well, we’re back with Part Two of his interview. In the prev...
Plant health: Tips for responsible agrochemical use
15 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Farmers are currently facing growing challenges in maintaining plant health and the productivity of their crops. Central to this challenge is the resp...
How to protect your herd against bovine brucellosis
13 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Bovine brucellosis affects the health and well-being of cattle and also poses a threat to human health.In this episode, we explore the basics of this ...
Agri SA Enterprises and Bokamoso Ba Rona drive agriculture development
10 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The West Rand district in Gauteng is facing the imminent closure of regional gold mines, highlighting an urgent need for economic diversification and ...
Afrivet champions animal health education throughout Mzansi
08 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Afrivet plays a crucial role in South African agriculture by providing veterinary products and services essential for animal health and welfare. They ...
GIS: A game-changer in Land Bank’s decision-making
07 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is crucial for decision-making in banking. In this episode, we delve into the u...
A closer look at STDs in cattle
06 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we delve into the world of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in cattle. Discover the economic impact of these diseases in cattle h...
Farmers Friend uses agricultural data to empower growers
03 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
South Africa’s agricultural sector boasts a wealth of data that could revolutionise the sector. However, accessing and using this data is a major hu...
Ben Otukile: Farmer and mining engineer shares secrets to success
02 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
When North West farmer and businessman, Ben Otukile, patiently sat in his car for over an hour for this interview, he demonstrated the level of dedica...
Agricultural education in South Africa: Insights from Agri Skills Transfer
01 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
At the Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba, Food For Mzansi interviewed the team from Agri Skills Transfer, who shared their highlights and key takeaways.&nbs...
Fight back against lice in your cattle
29 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Lice infestations are a common issue in cattle farming that can lead to discomfort, decreased productivity, and economic losses if left untreated. How...
Climate-smart beef production strategies part 2
26 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, join host Dawn Noemdoe and Motshabi Mokolobate-Chadyiwa, junior researcher at the Agricultural Research Council, explore climate-smar...
Why supplementary feeding is essential for livestock in winter
24 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Are you curious about how farmers keep their animals healthy during winter? In this episode, we discuss the importance of supplementary feeding f...
Farmers Friend's new features take farming into the future
22 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Agriculture is not immune to technological advancements, and we're here for it! Farmers Friend is a cutting-edge app that is transformi...
Succeed in Pig Sales
19 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In South Africa, are you considering entering the pig farming industry? This episode will serve as your oink-tastic success handbook, so fasten your s...
Keneilwe Raphesu turns agricultural challenges into opportunities
18 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Keneilwe Raphesu, the CEO of Mogalemone Pty Ltd and KR Farming Enterprise. She took over her father’...
Climate-smart beef production strategies part 1
17 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Enhance your farming practices with insights on climate-smart beef production in this edition of Farmer’s Inside Track. Join host Dawn Noemdoe and e...
The Diverse Product Basket of AECI Plant Health
15 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Currently, AECI Plant Health provides a range of nutrient-rich and crop protection products, such as biofertilizers, herbicides, insecticides, and fun...
Learn High-Intensity Grazing Strategies Today
12 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Are you a farmer in South Africa trying to maximise the productivity of your pastures? The managing director of Healing Hoove, Roland Kroon, del...
Policies: Industry leaders explore food security challenges and solutions
10 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Food For Mzansi's assistant editor, Duncan Masiwa, recently chaired an insightful discussion on food security with the African Agri Council.In this di...
Afrivet: Strategies for success in livestock rural farming
08 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Ready to revolutionise your livestock rural farming game?Join us for an enlightening discussion with Kenneth Malatji, an Animal Health Technician at A...
Agricultural engineers to gather at international symposium
05 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers (SAIAE) is inviting you to its International Symposium happening on 13 to 15 November 2024 at th...
Optimising stocking rates for sustainable grazing management
03 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Dr Gilbert Pule, a researcher at the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) in Animal Production, unpacks factors essential to designing...
Agri SA Enterprises and AgriSETA’s collaborative approach to rural development
01 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Craig Murrell, head of advisory services at Agri SA Enterprises, and Medupi Shabangu, executive manager of learning programmes & ...
Pasture management: Selecting suitable grass species
29 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we unpack the crucial aspects of pasture management, by selecting the most suitable grass species. We’ll explore various factors su...
Heifer selection: How to maximise herd potential
27 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Selecting heifers with desirable physical characteristics can lead to genetic improvement in the herd. This includes traits such as growth rate, feed ...
Shaun rases community gardens with his garden in a box
25 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Seed 2 Harvest is spreading hope to people, one community garden at a time. Shaun Cairns, the founder, is dedicated to establishing a food garden in a...
Into the woods: Exploring South Africa's forestry industry
22 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
South Africa's forestry industry is a significant contributor to employment and rural development, offering numerous career opportunities.In this epis...
Ratlale Masiu's farm management strategies
21 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Ratlale “Bush” Masiu farms on a 700-hectare farm near Bloemfontein in the Free State. With a focus on cattle, sheep, goats, maize, and sunflowers,...
Build your chicken coop from scratch
20 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Thinking of building a chicken coop for your farm? In this episode, Brian Nyakudanga, the CEO of Tamuka Oasis Farm, shares some essential tips to...
Boost plant growth by taking care of the soil structure
18 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
When it comes to ensuring robust plant growth, it's imperative to consider the essential macroand micro-nutrients crucial for a farm's soil structure....
Retail Market: How to succeed in supplying supermarkets
15 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Ready to sell your farm produce directly to retail stores? This episode explores key considerations for farmers when supplying to the retail market.Fa...
Turning the ship for SA’s wine industry
13 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
South Africa’s wine industry is being hampered by logistical issues at ports, policy uncertainty, a lack of action against the illicit alcohol trade...
Leona Archary and Agda’s approach to agricultural development
12 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Leona Archary, the CEO of the Agricultural Development Agency (Agda), shares the primary models used to bolster agricultural developm...
Maximising tractor performance and maintenance
11 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Agriculture technician and farmer Gary Patience sheds light on the integration of precision-farming equipment. He shares best practices for cleaning a...
Farmers Friend: App detects crop stress well in advance
09 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Farmers face a multitude of challenges, from unpredictable weather patterns and resource constraints to fluctuating market demands. But what if they c...
Pig pen 101: Building a happy home for your pigs
08 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Are you getting ready to raise happy and healthy pigs but feeling uncertain about how to begin with constructing their ideal habitat?Whether you're an...
Portia performs magic with communal property association
07 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Portia Mdhlovu, the dynamic leader at the helm of Laughing Waterfall, a commercial venture under a communal property association (CPA) located in Mpum...
Addressing livestock parasite challenges in autumn
06 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Tactical and strategic parasite management for livestock, particularly in autumn, is important.In this episode, Dr Rudél Zowitsky, technical veterina...
Agri SA Enterprises: Empowering women farmers to transform communities
04 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we delve into a crucial aspect of agriculture: empowering women farmers.Thabo Olivier, a food security specialist who mentors farmers...
Take charge: Worm control in livestock
01 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In addition to being critical for the wellbeing and health of animals, worm control is also vital for livestock farms' financial stability. Farmers ca...
Tinashe Jomairwa: Forward-thinking farm strategies win the game
29 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Tinashe Jomairwa cultivates maize, sugar beans, raises cows, sheep, and broilers on a sprawling farm spanning over 30 hectares in Gauteng.Hailing from...
Opportunities in canola farming to explore
28 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In the picturesque landscapes of the Western Cape, as far as the eye can see, hills are adorned with beautiful, yellow canola fields.In this epis...
Sisters in farming put their spin on agricultural cooperatives
26 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The rich history of agricultural cooperatives in the country go back over a century to the early 1900s. These cooperatives have played a crucial role ...
Biosecurity checklist for livestock farmers
23 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Do you have a biosecurity checklist in place amidst the prevalence of various animal diseases? Biosecurity in agriculture entails crucial measures to ...
How to meet market demands in Mzansi’s deciduous fruit industry?
21 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
From cultivating traditional varieties to embracing innovation, Limpopo fruit farmer Dibesho Serage shares insights on meeting market demands in the d...
ARC's commitment to small-scale farmers in the potato industry
19 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) is dedicated to enhancing potato production in South Africa and empowering small-scale farmers within the indu...
How soilless farming increases productivity
16 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Plants that are hydroponically produced indoors without the need of soil or growing media are known as "soilless farming." Rather than drawing the min...
Maize and soya farmer shares trade secrets
15 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Nolundi Msengana, affectionately known as Mama Nolundi, manages a 320-hectare maize and soya farm in Sedibeng, Gauteng. Alongside crop cultivation, sh...
How cannabis and hemp material was used to build a house
14 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Throughout South Africa, passionate cannabis and hemp advocates are tirelessly dedicated to raising awareness about the opportunities and benefits of ...
Agri SA Enterprises: Women in Farming and what to expect
12 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Following a successful 2023, Agri SA Enterprises is ready to roll out phase three of its Women in Farming programme.In this episode, project manager M...
Plan for your soil moisture insurance with Agnovate
10 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
With Agnovate’s soil moisture insurance, farmers now have the ability to manage their soil moisture risk before they even have crops in the ground, ...
How to prevent heat stress in livestock
09 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Farmer’s Inside Track, we explore the challenges of heat stress impacting livestock globally. Dr Klaas-Jan Leeuw, a researcher in...
Nedbank: SA biosecurity needs reliable national disease control system
07 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The state of biosecurity in South Africa is a concerning factor for John Hudson, head of agriculture at Nedbank Commercial Banking.In this episode, he...
Potatoes SA prioritises industry transformation
06 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Significant progress has been achieved in the transformation of South Africa's potato industry.In this episode, we delve into transformation within th...
Gain some knowledge around biological farming
05 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Biological farming includes a wide range of products aimed at supporting soil fertility, biological activity, and plant growth. In this podcast episod...
Understanding seeds & their role in farming
02 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore the significance of seeds in agriculture, unravelling the uniqueness of each seed and understanding how genetics influence...
Lumka Digashu: Farm diversification at its best
01 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Lumka Digashu knows a thing or two about farm diversification. She cultivates a diverse range of crops, including yellow maize, sugar beans, cabbages,...
Land Bank: Everything You Need to Know About Crop Insurance
31 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Farmers, secure your harvest with Land Bank Crop Insurance LBIC. Their comprehensive cover is not a one-size-fits-all crop insurance but caters t...
Organic fertiliser: Your next best decision
29 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Discover the benefits of organic fertilisers with Mandisa Mazibuko, a master's candidate in agricultural science. Organic fertilisers are derived from...
The ins and outs of fresh fruit export markets
26 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
South African fresh fruit exporters are confronted with fierce competition and challenges. In addition to this they need to ensure that perishable ite...
Land Bank: Why it is smart to take out credit life insurance
24 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Credit life insurance is one of the most effective techniques for protecting a farmer's assets in the case of death, disability, or terminal illness. ...
How blockchain technology is reshaping farming practices
22 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Across Africa, blockchain technology is making significant contributions to reshaping farming practices by addressing various challenges and improving...
Farmers Friend: A farm management app that will change your life
20 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
With technology being used more to make farming operations effective and efficient, IQ Logistica has launched its new farm management application tool...