Farmer's Weekly - June 21, 2024

In this issue

Why a coalition government is no magic formula for curing SA’s ills. What you need to know about starting a chicken abattoir. Our plans to transform into a vibrant cotton industry. Focus on drones gadgets and apps to-improve on-farm production.

The private sector still needs to step up

A coalition government won't fix past failures in South Africa, says Lawrence Hamilton, South Africa-UK Bilateral Research Professor in Political Theory for Wits University and the University of Cambridge. Thus, we can expect the private sector to play a bigger role in delivering power, transport and security, he adds.

5 mins

Is the polled Merino economically sound?

Polled Merinos are cheaper to produce and have a higher lambing percentage, among other advantages. However, they do come with their own set of issues. John Kingwill of Grootplaats in the Murraysburg district of the Western Cape wanted to breed a more economical sheep under natural conditions. He settled for a polled ram, the founder sire of his 20-year-old stud.

3 mins

New fruit fly species detected in South Africa

Spotted wing drosophila has been confirmed in South Africa, posing a threat to most fruit production areas. However, efforts are underway to contain and manage the spread, writes Glenneis Kriel.

3 mins

Deciduous fruit industry celebrates leadership

Pieter du Toit, director of Dutoit Agri, recently became the third member of the Du Toit family to receive Hortgro’s prestigious OSH Reinecke Frontrunner Award.

1 min

Female-owned KZN agri-business receives aid

Azowel Projects, a female-owned farming enterprise in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), is nothing if not resilient.

2 mins

Concerns arise over potential Irish potato shortage

Consumers may soon experience a shortage of Irish potatoes, leading to potentially higher prices.

1 min

Western Cape pet owners urged to vaccinate dogs and cats against rabies

The Western Cape Department of Agriculture is urging people to vaccinate their animals against rabies after a confirmed case in Cape Town.

2 mins

Wildlife income dives as minister stays mum on hunting quotas

The South African wildlife industry faces an uncertain future in light of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment's delay in publishing this year's annual hunting quota.

2 mins

Industry players debate call to extend tariff rebates for imported chicken

The debate over extending tariff rebates on chicken imported into South Africa continues as industry players argue over market dynamics and food affordability.

3 mins

Focus on drones and apps

Using drones to ensure the health of your crop

4 mins

Four apps to improve productivity and more

There are a range of apps available on the South African market to help farmers improve efficiency and production. We explore four of them here.

3 mins

Understanding the basics of chicken abattoirs and related legislation

South Africa has strict laws that regulate the slaughtering of animals in commercial abattoirs. In this article, Farmer's Weekly looks at how a chicken abattoir works, what facilities are needed and what the laws are that govern the establishment and operation of such abattoirs.

6 mins

Cotton industry comes together to forge a new future

A strategic cotton summit held recently in Limpopo was an important step towards creating unity in the industry and a common goal throughout the entire cotton value chain.

5 mins

Hydrogen: a vehicle emissions reduction alternative?

The current narrative around vehicle electrification typically covers battery cost, raw materials, weight, driving range, or charging infrastructure – all battery electric vehicle issues. There is rarely any discussion around the use of hydrogen as an alternative means of achieving vehicle emission targets. Why this apparent lack of interest?

5 mins

Choosing the right nitrogen type

Various nitrogenous fertilisers are available. Your choice will depend on environmental considerations, cost, availability, and so on, writes Bill Kerr.

2 mins

Fun, games and ancient rites on board the greatest ocean liner still in service

With King Neptune’s permission, pollywog Brian Berkman crossed the equator on board the Queen Mary 2 and is now a proud shellback. He gives the lowdown on the variety of pursuits avaliable on this luxurious ship.

8 mins

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Farmer's Weekly Magazine Description:

Farmer’s Weekly is an agricultural magazine based in South Africa, targeting the whole of Southern Africa. The magazine is committed to advancing the interests of the region’s farmers and its agricultural industry by serving as a mouthpiece for the industry and by keeping its readers informed of the latest developments in the agricultural sector.