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.
この記事は Farmer's Weekly の December 23 & 30, 2022 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
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この記事は Farmer's Weekly の December 23 & 30, 2022 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です? サインイン
Uncertainty over Trump's stance on AGOA
It is of vital importance that that the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) be upheld following the recent US presidential election, in which Donald Trump emerged as the winner.
Plum pollen study reveals varietal differences in pollination effectiveness
A new study undertaken near George, Western Cape, explored pollination in plum varieties, showing key differences in pollen quality. Octavia Avesca Spandiel reports on the research findings.
Study: small cuts to beef production could eliminate years of emissions
In a paper published in early November, scientists reveal that pasturelands, in particular those that were once forests, hold great potential for mitigating the effects of climate change.
Harnessing wind for cleaner energy
At the Windaba Conference and Exhibition, held in October in Cape Town, Western Cape, Niveshen Govender, CEO of the South African Wind Energy Association, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the state of wind energy in the country and the opportunities that farmers can exploit.
The Cape Grace: a Cape Town icon is reborn, and her new custodians shine
Brian Berkman has had the exceedingly good fortune of spending many nights at the Cape Grace Hotel over the years. He revisits it to find it as impressive as ever.
Cutting-edge tech aiding the agri sector
Toyota Material Handling's innovations conserve resources and reduce the environmental footprint of farming operations.
Use the correct growing medium for safe seedling production
Instead of buying expensive growing mediums for seedlings, farmers can make their own mixtures from local resources, such as manure, which are economical and produce excellent results
Optimising cherry production and quality
Growing cherries in a suboptimal climate requires manipulating trees and temperatures. But with a considerable market advantage, it is worth the effort. Lindi Botha visited ZZ2's Toscana farm, which for four weeks of the year takes prime position in the cherry market.
Biosecurity & nutrition: the foundation of pig farming success
JD Mostert, a consulting swine nutritionist at CS Vet, and Dr Stefan Steyn, a veterinarian at Afrivet, shared their expertise with Sinenhlanhla Mncwango, delving into why biosecurity and nutrition are critical pillars in establishing and maintaining a productive pig farm geared for long-term success.
The business of pig farming: practical steps for success
Running a pork farm requires knowledge and expertise. Mosele Lepheane, director of a small piggery in the Free State, spoke to Sinenhlanhla Mncwango about the structured approach needed to succeed, from drafting a business plan and managing cash flow to sourcing equipment and expanding market access.
