The past year has been a challenging one, but one thing that has stood out over these 12 months as I look through all of the Farmer’s Weekly issues published this year, is a sense of community. Of course, as always, we’ve published many articles about production and business processes, and these are as important now as they’ve ever been. But for the editor’s overview, I’ve decided that this year we should focus on the many positives.
One thing we can take away from 2022 is that communities seem stronger, and despite difficult times, many people are still concerned with helping each other navigate the pitfalls of farming.
Finding inspiration on a cattle farm in Badplaas
One of the most inspiring articles this year for me was one I had the opportunity to write myself. The article focuses on Jessica Phathela, stud manager for the Ntaba Nyoni Cattle farm in Badplaas, Mpumalanga (see FW, 4 March). And while not strictly about community, her story is nevertheless fascinating. Phathela is an exceptional young woman who, despite her youth, is highly knowledgeable about cattle production. One of the most unique aspects of her story is that she oversees five breeds on the farm, namely Bonsmara, Nguni, Ankole, Boran and Wagyu, each with its own individual management challenges. Despite her education and willingness, she has also had to prove herself in a mostly male-dominated industry.
“To make it as a female farmer, you have to be willing to get your hands dirty and do much more than is expected of men. Once you are able to jump in and you aren’t standing on the sidelines, you’ll be taken seriously,” she said.
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der December 23 & 30, 2022-Ausgabe von Farmer's Weekly.
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Diese Geschichte stammt aus der December 23 & 30, 2022-Ausgabe von Farmer's Weekly.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
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Understanding eye conditions in horses: causes and first aid
A horse can get a swollen eye from bumping it against a tree, shaking its head to keep flies away, or even snake venom
IPM requires a completely different mindset
You need to investigate any beneficial insects that may appear on your plants, or you can purchase them
Does parrot farming protect wild species?
Those in favour of commercial captive breeding argue that breeding parrots to sell can relieve pressure on wild populations. Researchers Neil D'Cruze and Rowan Martin review the evidence.
Bacterial and fungal diseases of garlic
Garlic can be prone to bacterial and fungal diseases, and it's important that farmers are proactive in preventing infection and practise appropriate management. Magda du Toit reports.
Responsible wastewater management: a crucial part of farming
The inadequate management of waste water is a challenge that the agriculture sector needs to deal with. Magda du Toit spoke to experts in waste and water management about a cost-effective treatment system.
Technology that can help protect South Africa's farms
Farm attacks, murders, livestock and crop theft, and other rural crimes are a growing concern in South Africa. As a result, more and more farmers are turning to advanced security technology to protect their lives, properties, and livelihoods. Sinenhlanhla Mncwango spoke to experts about the security strategies that producers can adopt to combat these threats.
The impact of theft on farms in South Africa
A high number of livestock are being stolen every year in South Africa. Insurance is expensive and farmers are battling to find solutions to the problem, says Dr Lindie von Maltitz, agricultural economics lecturer in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at the University of the Free State.
Staying afloat amid the cost-price squeeze
John Hudson, head of agriculture at Nedbank Commercial Banking, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the importance of environmental and social sustainability for a prosperous agriculture sector.
Free State has no reason to mark Transport Month
Free State Agriculture (FSA) is very concerned about the extremely poor state of rural paved and gravel roads in the province and has very little, if anything, to celebrate during Transport Month, which takes place every October.
SA's food system ‘vulnerable to climate change'
The Just Transition Agenda for Food System Policymaking in SA webinar, hosted by the Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ) in October, highlighted the role that South Africa’s food system plays in contributing to climate change and how vulnerable it is to the impact thereof.