Pig farming in South Africa holds immense potential, particularly in light of the nation’s growing demand for pork and the increasing focus on food security. However, as with any business, entering the pig farming industry requires careful planning, detailed budgeting, and a strong understanding of market dynamics.
“A farmer should start by clearly defining and understanding the specifications of their project,” says Mosele Lepheane, director of Free State piggery business Mos M Farms.
“One common mistake farmers make is skipping the essential research related to their specific goals. To avoid this, it’s beneficial to visit other farms, observe different operations, and evaluate which approaches are best suited to your farm or operational space,” she adds.
STARTING WITH A BUSINESS PLAN
A robust business plan lays the foundation for any successful farming operation. According to Lepheane, a well-crafted business plan is far more than just a document for securing funding; it is a comprehensive roadmap guiding a farm’s direction and decision-making.
“A business plan is essential because it translates ideas into a concrete, strategic plan. Drafting a business plan encourages the business owner to think strategically, outlining clear goals and the steps needed to reach them,” she says.
Traditional business plans may appear extensive, but newer tools like a ‘business canvas’ are gaining popularity among farmers. The business canvas, a one-page visual overview, includes elements such as value proposition, target customers, revenue streams, and key resources. It provides a streamlined alternative to a full-length business plan, allowing for quick reference and easy adjustments.
Whether you use a traditional business plan or a business canvas, Lepheane emphasises the importance of clarity and focus, particularly for farmers who are seeking funding.
この記事は Farmer's Weekly の November 29, 2024 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
この記事は Farmer's Weekly の November 29, 2024 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
New farmers' seedling pitfalls
Inexperienced farmers may be tempted to grow seedlings from seed themselves, but they have much to gain by trusting a seedling grower at a nursery to perform this task for them instead
South African avocado production: a success story
Avocado production in South Africa has expanded markedly since the industry's humble beginnings over 80 years ago. From a small grove planted in 1938 in what was then Nelspruit, the industry has blossomed to seven million trees planted on 20 000ha. Dr Guy Witney, project manager at Great Brak Avos, spoke to Annelie Coleman about the country's avocado production.
Unlocking value through livestock exports
Exporting livestock might sound like a daunting business that's better left for big companies, but Gerrie Ferreira, who farms near Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape, has been doing it successfully for almost 30 years, sometimes in partnership with other breeders. He spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the huge potential this market holds, and offers some advice for farmers who are contemplating going this route.
An agribusiness's dedication to community upliftment
For agribusiness NWK, located in Lichtenburg, North West, corporate social investment is an important part of creating a positive influence alongside financial returns. Johan Bezuidenhout, NWK’s group manager of corporate marketing and communication, spoke to Annelie Coleman about why the company chooses to invest millions of rands in the area it operates in every year.
Empowering dreams, transforming lives
Since its launch in 2013, the Agri's Got Talent competition has revolutionised the lives of many farmworkers by unlocking their hidden talents and fostering a culture of empowerment. Glenneis Kriel spoke to various finalists about how the contest has changed their lives.
Foreign investment: agriculture maintains its appeal
South Africa remains a popular destination for foreign investors, despite an often negative outlook from its citizens. It is a gateway to Africa, and with its counterseasonal production to the Northern Hemisphere and favourable weather, local agriculture is especially well placed to attract foreign interest, bringing with it hope for rural communities
The real value and message of COP29 for SA agriculture
While the 2024 Conference of the Parties may have disappointed those who hoped for real progress, it's more important for South African agriculture to highlight its role in carbon mitigation
Improving efficiencies in feed and grain milling
Bühler, a Swiss-based company that provides solutions and equipment for various industries, including food and animal feed processing, has pledged that by 2025, it will deliver scalable solutions that will reduce energy, waste and water by 50% in the value chains of its customers.
Tips for better olive production
At an SA Olive Association field day in November, industry experts shared ways to improve olive production efficiencies, from soil preparation to harvesting.
More effort needed to protect vulnerable cheetah
On International Cheetah Day, commemorated every year on 4 December, emphasis was placed on the vulnerability of the species.