There are few relationships as important to a farmer as the one between him or her and their farmworkers. While we often laud farmers for their contribution to food security and the economy, we should not forget the importance of farmworkers in this regard. No farm would be profitable without the input of committed farmworkers. This is something farmers are well aware of, and this is why most farmers offer their workers on-farm housing. This scenario is beneficial for farmers and their workers, as on-farm housing limits commute time, which saves farmworkers money and time and means that farmers always have ready hands on farm.
Farmworkers’ presence on the farm is critical for a seamless operation, particularly during crucial periods, such as planting and harvesting.
On-farm housing allows the business to maximise productivity, and can help farmers retain good and reliable workers by providing workers and their families with stable and secure living conditions.
Furthermore, well-rested and comfortable workers are generally more efficient and productive, and on-farm housing can contribute to better worker well-being, which in turn can lead to improved job performance. Providing farmworkers with appropriate housing is an ethical and socially responsible practice. It reflects a commitment to the welfare of workers and contributes to a more equitable society.
Lastly, by providing housing, farmers help to enhance the sense of community among farmworkers and foster positive relationships between themselves and their employees. It can also contribute to the overall welfare of rural communities.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUILDING ON-FARM HOUSING
Building on-farm housing for your workers is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning and consideration.
Denne historien er fra 29 September 2023-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
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Denne historien er fra 29 September 2023-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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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.
