Have you eaten today? Thank a farmer for that

David Burton, sector director for African agriculture in the UK Department of Business and Trade, says the UK offers sovereign debt finance options to South African farming projects that invest in British technology.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

Concerns arise over potential Irish potato shortage

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Focus on drones and apps

Using drones to ensure the health of your crop

Female-owned KZN agri-business receives aid

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

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.

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.

The big appeal of a small Karoo dorp

Van Wyksdorp in the Karoo may not be near to anything, yet exploring its surrounding mountain passes and staying there is a journey very much worth taking.

THE HITCHING POST

I am a retired man and have been a widower for two years. I would like to hear from fun-loving women between 50 and 60 years of age with a good sense of humour.

Theft of horsebox wheels: an ongoing problem

When thieves broke in at her farm recently, they came well prepared with the right tools to forcibly remove locknuts on wheels, says Dr Mac.

How much nitrogen is enough?

Nitrogen is key to profitable vegetable farming. However, the application of this element can be overdone, causing crop loss, or underdone, with the same result, writes Bill Kerr.

Review: Toyota Hilux GR-Sport III

Siyavuya Mbaduli takes a look at Toyota's highly anticipated GR-Sport Ill, which is making a strong entry into the local market as a rugged and ready off-road adventurer.

Medical cannabis production is easier said than done

The production of medical cannabis calls for extreme attention to detail and precision, as well as compliance with intricate legislative requirements and official demands. It also calls for perseverance, as Annelie Coleman found out on a visit to medical cannabis producers Coenie and Ilse Venter near Viljoenskroon in the Free State.

The biggest threats to horse health in South Africa

Janine Ryan looks at the most threatening diseases and conditions in South Africa that impact horses and other equines, including colic, laminitis and Cushing's disease.

Paper: part and parcel of the agriculture industry

Despite the everyday use of electronic communication and other technologies, society is far from becoming paperless. Wood-based paper products are woven into the fabric of our everyday lives. Paper is used in printing, writing and stationery, food packaging, packaging of other goods and medicine, for hygiene and insulation purposes, money, and even in jewellery and construction.

Challenges facing vet services in South Africa

Dr Paul van der Merwe, CEO of the South African Veterinary Association, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the issues discussed at the World Veterinary Association Congress and how these related to the local industry.

Building a farming legacy from scratch

Mac Mabidilala is proof that you don't need to own land to get started in agriculture. He spoke to Glenneis Kriel about how he is realising his farming dream.

Zambia looks into nuclear energy to save agriculture sector and economy

Zambia is in talks with Chinese nuclear power companies after entering load-shedding stages as the country grapples with devastating drought,

Wine industry embarking on essential repositioning for value growth

Despite being the seventh-largest in the world and celebrating small triumphs in the wine world, the South African industry is under extreme pressure,

KZN Young Farmer of the Year search kicks off

The search is on for the next KZN Kwanalu Young Farmer of the Year.