SERVING AGRICULTURE SINCE 1911

13 JUNE 2025 FARMERSWEEKLY.CO.ZA

STARTING A POULTRY FOCUS ON ANIMAL

BUSINESS: TIPS FOR HEALTH & NUTRITION
EMERGING FARMERS
t THE ASSOCIATION
ENSURING HIGH
STANDARDS
IN NUTRITION
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COMMUNAL VEGGIE
FARMER FINDS
COMMERCIAL SUCCESS
R30,00
(VAT incl)
Namibia N$35,00 (incl tax)
Other R20,87 (excl tax)

25277

GREAT TALES
A POIGNANT LOVE STORY SET
25021

9 770041 848008
DURING THE FRONTIER WARS
Contents

47 44

ON THE COVER ARTICLES OPINION AND ANALYSIS

FOCUS ON ANIMAL BY INVITATION 13 Agribusiness Perspective: Countering
HEALTH & NUTRITION 6 Resilience, innovation, and energy the ‘white farmer genocide’ narrative
30 The association ensuring high partnerships are key in South Africa’s
standards in nutrition agricultural outlook
WEEKLY NEWS WRAP
34 Importance of quality feed VEGETABLE PRODUCTION 17 Below-normal rainfall expected
51 Reduce the risk of viruses getting until September
39 Vaccine calendar into your crop 20 South African soya bean harvests
under threat from fungal pathogen
BREED OF THE MONTH HORSE TALK 22 Global politics and economics
40 Getting to know the Beefmaster 53 Fusarium fungi on harvested maize threaten wine sales
breed standards can be lethal to horses 25 ECRDA repurposed to drive
42 Top five bank-breaking Beefmasters agri commercialisation
MOTORING
LIVESTOCK 54 Converting the Ford Ranger
44 Starting a poultry business: into a proper workhorse REGULARS
tips for emerging farmers 8 Farmer’s Diary
TRAVEL 10 Letters
CROPS 60 A walk back in time to the whaling 12 Archive
47 Communal veggie farmer finds days of The Bluff 66 Auctions
commercial success 69 Classifieds
Cover photo: Supplied
COLUMNS
GREAT TALES 26 COMMODITY PRICE TRENDS LIFESTYLE
64 A poignant love story set during 55 Farmer’s Feasts
the Frontier Wars 28 GLOBAL FARMING 56 Crossword
57 Hillbilly Homes
58 The Hitching Post
58 On the Edge
59 Books
68 Ask Our Vet: Feline panleukopaenia

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DISTRIBUTED by On the Dot. Phone the call centre number on 087 353 1291; WhatsApp number: 087 353 1292; or email: farmersweekly@onthedot.co.za.

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 3

FROM THE EDITOR

Farm murders
in SA take
centre stage EDITORIAL TEAM

O
Editor Janine Ryan, janiner@caxton.co.za
n 21 May, US President Donald Deputy editor Jenna van der Walt,
Trump met with South African jennag@caxton.co.za
Senior designer Louis Kruger
President Cyril Ramaphosa Designer Mario Ferlito
in the Oval Office in a now infamous Copy editors Fanie de Villiers,
Richard Goller, and Trevor Cramer
encounter that was televised around the Digital editor Sindira Chetty, sindirac@caxton.co.za
world. Ramaphosa was accompanied Office assistant Prenusha Moodley
by South African billionaire Johann Junior office assistant Dimakatso Phala
Rupert, internationally acclaimed
South African golfers Ernie Els and SUBSCRIPTIONS
Print Phone: 087 353 1291,
Retief Goosen, and ministers Ronald or farmersweekly@onthedot.co.za
Lamola, John Steenhuisen, Khumbudzo Digital Visit farmersweekly.co.za,
Ntshavheni, and Parks Tau. select ‘Subscribe’ for Magzter subscriptions.

During the meeting, Trump asked

his staff to dim the lights, while a EDITORIAL HEAD OFFICE
General manager Gary Wium, garyw@caxton.co.za
television set was rolled into the Address 368 Jan Smuts Avenue, Craighall 2196
room. For around five minutes, PO Box 1797, Pinegowrie 2123
Tel 010 971 3765
Trump played a clip of Julius Malema, Email farmersweekly@caxton.co.za
leader of the EFF, singing the inflammatory ‘Kill the Boer’ song, and showed Website farmersweekly.co.za
the White Cross Memorial and other white crosses that commemorate farmers Social media @FarmersWeeklySA
and their families who have been killed in farm attacks and murders.
Since Trump and South African-born Elon Musk started taking a JOURNALISTS
Gqeberha
particular interest in the goings-on in South Africa, farm murders in Octavia Avesca Spandiel,
this country have become a global talking point. Ramaphosa and his 072 858 7376, octavia@caxton.co.za
ministers, including Agriculture Minister Steenhuisen, stressed during Bothaville
Annelie Coleman, 082 862 9897, ann@btbits.co.za
(and after) the meeting that farm attacks and murders are part of South Cape Town
Africa’s high crime rate and fall within the scope of ‘ordinary crime’. Glenneis Kriel, 010 971 3765, glenneis@caxton.co.za
General
True, South Africa does have an exceptionally high crime rate, and government Lindi Botha, lindivr@gmail.com
should be ashamed for allowing it to reach this point. Farm attacks aside, all
South Africans, on a daily basis, live in fear of being attacked, robbed, hijacked, ADVERTISING AND MARKETING
or worse. They live in fear that their children, parents, siblings, other family Sales consultants
members, and friends will be victims of crime. And many people live with the Andy Nxumalo, 010 971 3773, andyn@caxton.co.za
Bev Geldard, 082 557 4662, bevg@caxton.co.za
trauma of having been victims of crime, sometimes on more than one occasion. Erika Pienaar, 083 286 7092, erikap@caxton.co.za
Violent crime impacts all of us, whether we are farmers or urbanites, Zona Haasbroek, 082 960 7988, zonah@caxton.co.za
Auctions and classifieds
whether we’re rich or poor, and whether we’re employed or unemployed. Rowena Nundkumar, 010 971 3774, rowenas@caxton.co.za
And there can be no excuse for this; government must do better.
However, farm attacks and murders are not the same as ordinary crime,
and we are doing a disservice to all farmers, farmworkers, and their families Copyright © 2025 Farmer’s Weekly
by pretending they are. Statistically speaking, farmers in this country are and Caxton Local Media.
three times more likely to be killed than police officers (this was said during a ALL RIGHTS RESERVED No part of this
parliamentary debate in 2017). This is a significant statistic: farmers are more publication may be reproduced, distributed, or
transmitted without the prior written permission of
likely to be killed than people who are actually in the line of fire when combatting the publisher. Opinions expressed by contributors,
violent criminals every day. The reality of this should not be underplayed. columnists and correspondents do not necessarily
The brutality and torture involved in farm murders also cannot be described reflect those of Farmer’s Weekly.

as ‘ordinary’; to suggest otherwise is, quite frankly, laughable. I would have DISCLAIMER While due care is taken to ensure
expected Steenhuisen, who should be representing farmers, to say as much. accuracy, Farmer’s Weekly is not liable for any
errors in product listings or availability, pricing or
It is also important to note that farm attacks and murders are not a ‘black any other information that was checked and has
versus white’ issue; many black farmers and farmworkers have also been changed since going to print.
attacked and murdered. Instead, it is an issue of national importance,
as farmers produce our food. It is time for government to leave politics
behind and give this issue the attention it rightly deserves. FW

Janine Ryan, Editor

4 IDUPHU·V ZHHNO\ 13 JUNE 2025

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BY INVITATION

Resilience, innovation,
and energy partnerships
are key in South Africa’s
agricultural outlook
Agriculture cannot rely on resilience alone; it also needs innovation, partnerships, and reliable energy to ensure
a sustainable future, says Aluwani Museisi, country chairperson for South Africa at Shell Downstream.

Agriculture remains one of South and sensor technology to monitor soil health,
Africa’s most vital sectors. It feeds weather trends, and crop performance in real
the nation, fuels rural economies time. This data-driven approach is helping them
and provides millions of livelihoods make more informed decisions about planting,
across the value chain, from smallholder irrigation, and harvesting, leading to improved
farmers to large agribusinesses. yields and more efficient use of resources.
But the events of the past few years have But technology alone isn’t enough. It must
reinforced a hard truth: the sector cannot rely on be underpinned by access to reliable energy
resilience alone. It needs deliberate innovation, and high-performance equipment.
strong partnerships and energy reliability to
secure a sustainable and competitive future.
South African farmers today are contending
TODAY’S EMERGING
with a range of pressures: climate volatility, FARMERS ARE
input cost inflation, energy instability and TECH SAVVY; THEY
tightening margins. Unseasonal droughts and
floods, driven by a changing climate, have
ARE BUILDING
hit yields and disrupted planting cycles. AGRIBUSINESSES
Meanwhile, the ripple effects of global supply ON SOCIAL MEDIA
The views expressed in chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions and high
our weekly opinion piece
do not necessarily reflect
fuel prices continue to challenge the economic THE ENERGY-AGRICULTURE NEXUS
those of Farmer’s Weekly. viability of both small and commercial farms. Energy is the lifeblood of modern agriculture.
And yet, despite these hurdles, the sector has But in South Africa, persistent load-shedding
continued to show remarkable grit. According and fuel supply disruptions have placed
to Statistics South Africa, agriculture had enormous strain on farming operations.
the most significant positive impact on GDP For many producers, these challenges don’t just
growth on the supply side of the economy in mean inconvenience, they mean crop losses,
the fourth quarter of 2024. The citrus, maize increased costs, and diminished competitiveness.
and wine industries showed robust export Moving forward, energy resilience must
performance, while innovations in agri-finance be seen as a growth enabler for the agri-
and digital farming made notable progress. sector. Hybrid and off-grid energy solutions,
As someone who works closely with agricultural including solar, biofuel and storage systems,
communities and businesses at Shell, I’ve had the will become increasingly critical. What’s
privilege of witnessing how farmers are adapting. needed is an ecosystem approach, where energy
There is a visible shift in the way agriculture is providers, government, and agribusinesses
being approached. It’s no longer just about keeping work together to make these technologies
machines running, it’s about using every resource, more accessible, affordable and scalable.
every tool, and every partner to work smarter. Whether it’s through our research into bio-
based lubricants or our involvement in cross-
INNOVATION AT THE HEART OF THE SECTOR sector innovation platforms, we recognise that
Farmers are increasingly adopting precision the future of agriculture will be greener, more
agriculture, satellite imaging, drone surveillance, digital and more interconnected than ever before.

6 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

LOCALISING VALUE AND DRIVING farmer is changing. Today’s emerging farmers
RURAL INDUSTRIALISATION are tech savvy, entrepreneurial and impact
Expanding local agri-processing capacity can driven. They are building agribusinesses
unlock jobs, improve rural incomes and reduce on social media, flying drones over their
dependency on imports. It also strengthens the crops and coding apps for soil analysis.
case for energy security, since agri-processing To support this new wave, we need to invest
requires stable power to run mills, refrigeration, in mentorship, training and access to capital.
and logistics hubs. This is an area ripe for targeted We must support initiatives that upskill
investment and smart policy incentives. emerging farmers and connect them with
According to the Department of Trade, platforms that amplify their impact. There is
Industry and Competition, a sophisticated a need to believe in agriculture, not just as a
and competitive agro-processing industry is sector, but as a vehicle for empowerment.
built and supported by South Africa’s diverse With the right investments, partnerships,
agricultural sector, accounting for 23% of the and enabling policies, the sector can
country’s manufacturing sector and making evolve from surviving to thriving.
it the largest sub-sector of manufacturing.
ȊȲSources: Department of Trade, Industry and
INVESTING IN PEOPLE: THE Competition. September 2022. ‘South Africa Fact
NEXT GENERATION OF FARMERS Sheet: Investing in South Africa’s Agro-
Perhaps the most exciting shift on the processing Sector’. bit.ly/4jflWTn; Stats
horizon is the growing participation SA. 4 March 2025. ‘SA economy
of youth and women in agriculture. grows in the fourth quarter’. Statistics
The traditional image of the South Africa bit.ly/3H9TFAt.

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 7

FARMER’S DIARY

FW ARCHIVE
Plant
production
course
9 to 11 July, Groenkloof, Pretoria
Agri Skills Transfer’s Plant Production
Short Course, which is also available online,
is designed for practical implementation,
ensuring attendees can apply what they’ve
learnt directly to their farming ventures.
The course covers a broad range of crops,
from cabbages and tomatoes to saffron and
maize. Participants will learn everything
from soil health and plant propagation
to pest control and plant nutrition.

Email admin@agriskills.net, phone

012 460 9585, or visit agriskills.net.

CONFERENCES, 21 TO 23 OCTOBER 28 JUNE TO 6 JULY

WORKSHOPS, AND EXPOS Securex South Africa 2025, Cape Town East Coast Radio House + Garden
14 AND 15 JUNE International Convention Centre, Show, Durban Exhibition Centre.
International Conference on Agriculture, Cape Town. Phone 011 835 1565, Email info@housegardenshow.co.za,
Veterinary and Life Sciences, Soweto, or visit securex.co.za. or visit housegardenshow.co.za.
Johannesburg, or online. Email
conf@scholarsforum.net. COURSES AND TRAINING 3 TO 5 JULY
2 TO 4 JULY Karoo Winter Wool Festival,
18 TO 20 JUNE Introduction to Aquaponics, Groenkloof, Middelburg, Eastern Cape. Email info@
WoodEX for Africa, Gallagher Pretoria. Also available online. Phone karoowinterwoolfestival.com, or
Convention Centre, Johannesburg. Email Agri Skills Transfer on 012 460 9585, visit karoowinterwoolfestival.com.
Annelize Jooste at info@woodexforafrica. email admin@agriskills.net,
com, or phone 081 775 5859. or visit agriskills.net. 1 TO 3 AUGUST
Good Life Show, Kyalami International
25 AND 26 JUNE 14 TO 18 JULY Convention Centre, Johannesburg.
International Conference on Agricultural Cattle Dairy Farming Management Visit goodlifeshowafrica.com.
and Biological Science, Emperors Palace, & Production, George. Phone Rothman
Kempton Park. Email info@iser.co, or Livestock Training Services on 27 AND 28 SEPTEMBER
visit bit.ly/3XJPTSQ. 064 506 0720, email admin@rltsafrica. Swartland Olive Festival,
com, or visit rltsafrica.com. Riebeek-Kasteel, Western Cape.
5 AND 6 AUGUST Visit bit.ly/3YHX7Ia.
Mitigating Pesticide Residue for Food 28 JULY TO 1 AUGUST
Safety 2025 summit, Premier Hotel Sheep and Goats Farming Management 9 TO 11 OCTOBER
Cape Town, Sea Point. Phone Ryan & Production course, George. Phone Komga Agricultural Show, Komga
on 073 946 9796, or email him at Rothman Livestock Training Services Showgrounds, Komga. Email charli.
ryan@empiretraining.co.za. on 064 506 0720, email admin@rltsafrica. fourie@gmail.com, or phone 082 900 5565.
com, or visit rltsafrica.com.
12 TO 14 AUGUST 9 TO 15 NOVEMBER
South African Sugar Technologists’ SHOWS Agritechnica, Hanover, Germany.
Association Congress 2025, Durban 10 TO 12 JUNE Phone +49 69 24788 265, or
ICC, Durban. Visit sasta.co.za. Africa Food Show, Cape Town visit agritechnica.com/en.
International Convention Centre,
2 TO 4 OCTOBER Cape Town. Email Margaret Peters
Organic & Natural Products Expo at info@theafricafoodshow.com,
Entries should be submitted at least one month in
Africa, Sandton Convention Centre, phone her on 021 700 5500, or visit advance. Email Janine Ryan at janiner@caxton.co.za
Johannesburg. Email warrenh@ theafricafoodshow.com. to place an entry. Please note that, due to
limited space, publication of an event cannot
blankpage.co.za, phone 082 895 2832, be guaranteed. All entries are published at the
or visit organicandnaturalportal.com. editor’s discretion.

8 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

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LETTERS

Sappi and Agricolleges join forces to

launch online forestry skills courses

A concerted effort is being made to uplift technical capacity across the forestry value chain with affordable training. AGRICOLLEGES INTERNATIONAL

I
n a major boost for forestry “By offering accessible and practical comfort and ensure a smooth,
education and small business training, we aim to make small effective learning experience.”
development, Sappi has partnered growers’ businesses more viable and Upon completion of all four
with Agricolleges International to sustainable. Participants can also courses, learners will be eligible for
launch four new online forestry skills work towards full integration into the a free one-week practical training
courses aimed at improving technical forestry value chain, including obtaining session at the Sappi Forestry Skills
capacity across the forestry value chain. Programme for the Endorsement of Centre near Richmond, KwaZulu-
This pioneering initiative, firmly Forest Certification (PEFC) validation.” Natal. Shared accommodation and
supported by Forestry South Africa, Francois Oberholzer, operations meals will be provided; participants
seeks to make quality, affordable training director at Forestry South Africa, adds: must arrange their own travel and
accessible to more people – especially “This collaboration aligns perfectly personal protective equipment.
small-scale growers and contractors. with the principles of the Amended
Hosted on Agricolleges’ e-learning Forest Sector Code and seeks to uplift FOUR COURSES
platform, these courses are designed and empower small businesses, The forestry courses now available are:
to uplift technical forestry skills for and enable smoother access for new 1. Introduction to the Forestry
the broader industry using the strong forestry value chain participants. Value Chain (three weeks);
training foundation established by “This will not only assist in their 2. Forestry Health and
Sappi Khulisa’s learning programme. comprehension and internalisation Safety (two weeks);
of the activities but will also increase 3. Forestry Certification Basics
CREATING SHARED VALUE their operational capacity. It’s a much- – Forest Stewardship Council
The partnership with Agricolleges needed initiative for the sector and and PEFC (two weeks); and
reflects Sappi’s commitment to creating one we wholeheartedly support.” 4. Managing the Environment
shared value across its forestry value Wynand Espach, chief operating in Forestry (two weeks).
chain and empowering small-scale officer at Agricolleges, highlights the Sappi and Agricolleges will expand
growers, contractors, suppliers, and value of the platform: “By making the course offerings into a full suite
community land reform beneficiaries. training accessible through online and covering silviculture, harvesting, and
The courses are designed to transform mobile platforms, we’re overcoming forestry business management.
participants into sustainable and the challenge of geographical There are future plans to translate
self-reliant timber businesses. distance from training facilities. the courses into isiZulu and
“This initiative is part of our “Our online facilitators offer develop an accredited NQF Level
knowledge-sharing programme,” says continuous support and guidance, with 5 forestry qualification. For more
Duane Roothman, vice-president of the ability to assist in several official information, visit bit.ly/3F7BA5u.
forestry at Sappi Southern Africa. languages to enhance participant – Forestry South Africa

GOT SOMETHING TO SAY?

Send your letters to: farmersweekly@caxton.co.za, or Farmer’s Weekly, PO Box 1797, Pinegowrie 2123, SA. The views and opinions expressed on the letters
page do not necessarily reflect those of Farmer’s Weekly or Caxton. Readers’ letters will be published and edited at the sole discretion of Farmer’s Weekly.

10 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

 TRENDING IN AGRICULTURE

MOST POPULAR ON FARMERSWEEKLY.CO.ZA

SOUTH AFRICA ON TRACK FOR BUMPER HARVEST IN 2025
According to the latest crop estimates released by the Crop Estimates
Committee, the updated figures show significant gains across a range
of summer and winter crops, most notably maize, indicating a strong
recovery from the previous drought-affected season.

Read the full article at

bit.ly/43yU078,
or scan here:
Posted: 25 May 2025.

Follow us at @FarmersWeeklySA

FROM FACEBOOK PHOTO OF THE WEEK

We posted an article titled ‘Ithala Bank closure a huge setback Boer Bae @kokiebaloyi26
to farmers in KZN’, and some of our followers shared their Via X. Posted: 7 May 2025.
thoughts on the subject.
Posted: 26 May 2025.

READERS’ COMMENTS

Lungile Matlatse: ‘So don’t we build our own bank? There’s

an issue of corruption, but let things change.’

Nkosikhona Mathenjwa: ‘In this digital age and the [artificial

intelligence] generation mushrooming in technology, Ithala
Bank is still using bank books. Blame it on politicians or
government, but Ithala Bank was poorly managed and
lacked innovation.’

Nhlanhla Benedict Mnikathi: ‘They operate it like it’s the

late [nineties]. No wonder it is collapsing!’

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Tag @FarmersWeeklySA on X or Instagram to be considered!

AGRI NEWS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

UK FUND FOR NATURE-FRIENDLY FRENCH FARMERS PROTEST SCOTLAND REACHES NEW

FARMING TO BE SLASHED IN PARIS AGAINST LAW LOOSENING MUSSEL FARMING RECORD
IN SPENDING REVIEW ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS According to the newly published Scottish
The nature-friendly farming Farmers demonstrated against changes Shellfish Farm Production Survey 2024,
budget is set to be slashed in to legislation that would ease restrictions Scotland’s mussel farmers harvested
the UK spending review, with on pesticide and water use in farming. 11 690t last year – the highest level on
only small farms allowed to apply. – aljazeera.com record and 13% up on the previous year.
– theguardian.com – thefishsite.com

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 11

ARCHIVE

31 YEARS AGO

1911 23 DECEMBER 1994 2025

He opted for seedless grapes after several
annual reports indicated better prices
for seedless on the overseas market.
“I am convinced our quality will be
at such a level next year that we will
be able to export successfully.”
Van Rensburg Sr decided to cut
back all his vines during August
and to forfeit this year’s harvest.
“I must admit I made some mistakes in
leading up my vines and I was not going to
take any chances pushing inferior grapes onto
the market. Cutting
back was the best thing
I could have done,
thanks to advice from
the Pretoria Study
Group. My vines not
only look better now,
but fruit set is better
and the quality of each
berry is evident when
ABOVE: This bunch of grapes will be ready for harvesting in a few one moves around
weeks. RIGHT: Paul van Rensburg (left) and his son Paul. FW ARCHIVE the vineyard.”

WATER QUALITY
Grapes better than printing A point Van Rensburg feels is important, but
often neglected by farmers, is water quality.

T
his article looked at a I had bought land at Jakkalsdans, north- “Every farmer is concerned about the
young man who gave up east of Pretoria, almost 20 years ago and, quality of their soil. When we start off, we
his job to help his father having grown vegetables most of the time, take samples and have them analysed, but
produce export-quality grapes. I wanted to be a success with grapes.” rarely do you come across someone who
It must be quite a decision for any man really cares about the quality of the water.
– especially one with sound training in HELP FROM MENTORS “I have had extensive analyses done
his chosen vocation – to pack up his job Van Rensburg Jr was keen to go into on the quality of my water from three
and go into grape farming in [Gauteng], grape farming with his father right from boreholes. While I have been assured the
many miles away from the traditional the start and set about learning as much quality is fair for the production of grapes,
grape-growing areas of the Cape. as he could about grapes. They both I have also been told I would do better to
This was the choice young Paul van have the highest praise for the Transvaal irrigate from the nearby Elands River, since
Rensburg made when his father, Paul Sr, Table Grape Producers’ Association the quality of that water is superior.”
gave him the option of becoming a grape and the Pretoria Study Group. Van Rensburg Sr is currently
farmer rather than remain a lithographer. “I honestly do not know how far we involved in negotiations to irrigate
“I had already qualified as a tradesman would have been at this stage, had it not extensively from this river.
when my father came up with the proposition been for the association and the study Meanwhile, the production of other crops
of coming back to the farm and preparing group. Their assistance and advice have is also important. The Van Rensburgs have
myself to eventually take over the complete been invaluable,” says Van Rensburg Sr. planted several hectares to tomatoes and beans
operation,” says Van Rensburg Jr. He originally planted some 2 300 and will plant about 2ha to onions and garlic.
Ronelle (Black Gem) vines, 150 Dan “These crops will help generate cash
GOING BACK TO GRAPES Ben Hannah vines, and some Pêrel. flow. But I have every confidence in
Van Rensburg Sr, having retired from “While the Black Gem and Dan Ben table grapes and the future of grapes, not
the Air Force as a lieutenant-colonel, Hannah lived up to expectations, I only for local use but for export, so we
had suffered a health setback. am taking out the Pêrel,” he says. He will stay firmly on the course we have
“This set me thinking,” he says. “I feels it is not suited to the area. taken,” says Van Rensburg Sr. FW
enjoyed my career in the Air Force, but “Instead, we are going to plant This article first appeared in the
having grown up in the Worcester area 1 000 Festival Seedless vines this year 23 December 1994 issue of Farmer’s
of the Western Cape, there was always and perhaps another 1 000 Festival Weekly and has been edited to adhere
this urge to go back to grapes. However, or Black Gem vines next year.” to the current style of the magazine.

12 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

 OPINION AND ANALYSIS

Countering the ‘white

farmer genocide’ narrative
AGRIBUSINESS PERSPECTIVE by Hamlet Hlomendlini

Instead of focusing on the discredited claim that farm attacks are racially motivated,
South Africans should join hands to forge a prosperous and inclusive agriculture sector.

I
n recent years, a false narrative the face of challenges such as drought, with industry to create a stable,
has been peddled, particularly load-shedding, and market volatility. policy-consistent environment.
in international media and Rather than dwelling on divisive Ultimately, a strong and united
political discourse, that white South rhetoric, South Africa should rally agriculture sector is a national
African farmers are being subjected behind a common vision: building imperative. It is time we move past
to a coordinated genocide. an inclusive, profitable, and secure misinformation and show the world,
This claim, lacking credible agriculture sector that lifts all and ourselves, that South Africa
evidence, has been thoroughly participants. This begins with creating values all its farmers, farmworkers,
discredited by various human rights an enabling policy environment and agripreneurs. They are not only
organisations, government institutions, that supports existing commercial custodians of the land, but also builders
and academic researchers. farmers while also expanding of the economy, agents of food security,
A 2018 analysis by South Africa’s opportunity for new entrants. and drivers of rural development.
Institute for Security Studies found The Agriculture and Agro-processing The future of South African agriculture
no statistical basis for the genocide Master Plan is a step in the right lies not in fear, but in collaboration,
claim, noting instead that farm attacks direction, but more must be done innovation, and equity. We must now
affect South Africans of all races, and to ensure it translates into tangible come together to forge a resilient,
are driven more by socio-economic support: affordable finance, secure land inclusive, and world-class sector that
factors and organised criminal tenure, training, extension services, and reflects the full potential of this country.
activity than racial targeting. infrastructure for emerging farmers. Hamlet Hlomendlini is an AgriBusiness
Recently, Police Minister Senzo Development Manager at Absa
Mchunu reiterated that farm TACKLING RURAL CRIME AgriBusiness, responsible for the
attacks, though deeply concerning, At the same time, tackling rural crime Secondary Agri Market. Email him at
reflect broader crime trends and with better policing, intelligence, Hamlet.Hlomendlini@absa.africa.
do not support claims of racially and rural safety plans is essential,
motivated extermination. not just for the protection of farmers,
Misrepresentation of the South but for all those who live and work
African farming context harms the in South Africa’s rural heartlands.
very progress needed in the sector. The country’s agricultural future
It undermines the incredible work depends not only on production, but
being done by farmers, black and also on the development of a thriving
white, who feed the nation, create jobs, agribusiness value chain. This includes
and contribute to export growth. investment in agro-processing, logistics,
export facilitation, and innovation. RECEIVE
SOUTH AFRICAN FARMERS’ Agro-processing has the potential
LAUDABLE CONTRIBUTION to absorb thousands of jobs and OUR WEEKLY
South Africa exported a record
US$13,7 billion (about R250 billion)
increase value addition, a vital step
in moving away from commodity NEWSLETTER
in agricultural products in 2024, exports to finished goods. For
VISIT FARMERSWEEKLY.CO.ZA
despite global logistical pressures example, the processed value of South
AND SELECT SUBSCRIBE
and economic uncertainty. African citrus products, nuts, and
The country remains one of the few net wines far exceeds that of their raw
food exporters on the African continent, equivalents, opening up immense
and agriculture has consistently global competitiveness opportunities.
outperformed other sectors in terms To attract more private investment
of GDP contribution and resilience in in this space, government must work

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 13

WEEKLY NEWS WRAP

Research from the

University of the ‘There isn’t that ‘The biggest problem we
Witwatersrand shows have is unscrupulous dog
that puff adders (Bitis
arietans) are natural,
much more that owners who trespass on
highly effective rodent
controllers, as they
farmers now need private land with packs of
are able to consume
large numbers of
to start doing. Every dogs. They hunt anything
the pests during
farmer I know is from […] hares […] to
population surges. This
bigger antelope like
makes them valuable
allies for farmers in working towards eland and sable antelope’
reducing crop damage
without the need for
costly chemicals – see
sustainability’
– Corné Louw, senior economist at Grain SA,
– Naudé Pienaar, CEO of Agri North
West, on the rapid escalation of game
story on page 17. who says South African producers have made poaching in the province (pg. 18).
significant progress in their environmental
and social endeavours, but poor measurement, ‘Farmers who do not
reporting and outdated retailer frameworks
have distorted their perceived efforts (pg. 15).
use certified or treated
seed are the most
‘Elevated temperatures vulnerable to losses’
and dry conditions will – Dr Godfrey Kgatle, research coordinator at
Grain SA, on the severe 2024 outbreaks of
significantly heighten Cercospora kikuchii, a fungus that causes several
wildfire risks’ diseases in soya bean crops, causing significant
yield and quality losses, especially where
– Cobus Olivier, a prediction research scientist
at the South African Weather Service, on the untreated or poor-quality seed is used (pg. 20).
expectations that maximum and minimum
temperatures will be above normal for most
parts of South Africa until September (pg. 17).

14 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

Farmers ahead of green demands, reporting lacking
Farmers are further along in their “I don’t know of farmers who are Daivd Farrell, founding partner of
environmental and social efforts doing things that will put their Blue North Sustainability, explained
than they are often given credit for. farms in a worse position in future.” that carbon removals were generally
However, the lack of measurement and However, Louw said that the not included in emissions reporting,
reporting on their part, combined with proper measuring and reporting of with some retailer frameworks
primitive frameworks from retailers, sustainability practices were lacking. prioritising measuring and reducing
has led to a skewed perception. emissions over recognising removals.
This was according to Corné ‘EVERY FARMER IS “Removals are difficult to
Louw, senior economist at Grain SA.
Speaking to Š›–Ž›ȂœȱŽŽ”•¢, he said
WORKING TOWARDS include because of the difficulty
of accurately attributing
that if one analysed farming practices SUSTAINABILITY long-term carbon storage
focused on sustainability, it was clear FOR THEIR “There are also permanence
that farmers were already mostly
doing what needed to be done.
GRANDCHILDREN’ concerns. We lack standardised
methodologies, and while corporate
He was commenting on the Climate “The best thing we can do is give our carbon footprints may include
Change Act (No. 22 of 2024) and farmers a carbon calculator so that they removals, methodologies for farm-level
how far farmers had progressed can measure their impact,” he added. sequestration are still evolving,” he said.
with compliance now that there However, this was just one piece He stated, however, that the shift
were fixed goals for the sector. of the puzzle. Farmers delivering was under way, with more retailers
“There isn’t that much more that produce to retailers who had stringent starting to pay attention to the
farmers now need to start doing. carbon footprint regulations had found total carbon footprint, taking into
Every farmer I know is working that these frameworks failed to take account the carbon farmers have
towards sustainability to keep their into account the full picture, placing stored in soil and trees through their
farms going for their grandchildren. the producers at a disadvantage. agricultural practices. – ’—’ȱ˜‘Š

Government starts process to reform municipalities

A sober look at municipal problems is local government needs to be avenues to improve local government
being undertaken by the Department reformed. The focus needs to be on functioning, including possible changes
of Co-operative Governance (DCoG), ‘by how much’, ‘how quickly’, and to the Constitution,” she said.
which could lead to the critical ‘by who’,” the document stated. Crosby noted that, ultimately, there
improvements needed in service The DCoG has asked the following could be frameworks put in place
delivery over the long term. key questions to those submitting to allow for more public-private
The 1998 White Paper on Local comments on the WPLG: what needs to partnerships to improve service delivery.
Government (WPLG) is in a revision be delivered in the short term to stabilise “There are already good examples of
process, with a revised draft expected municipalities and prevent further how effective this can be. A formalised
to be published in March 2026. In deterioration of the local government framework of how these can be
March this year, the DCoG published system? What needs to be put in approached in future will help to expand
a discussion document, which allowed place, through legislative and other such initiatives going forward.”
for comments until 30 June 2025. changes, before the local government The process to revise the WPLG
The discussion document has posed elections anticipated for late 2026? would, however, be lengthy, with the
key questions that the revision process What reforms are to be implemented DCoG expecting a three-year process
should address and does not gloss over during the next local government before the new laws will take effect.
ongoing issues within municipalities. five-year term of office and beyond? Crosby said that Agbiz wanted to
It listed the key issues as a Annelize Crosby, head of legal see a functional local government that
breakdown in finance, governance intelligence at Agbiz, which is enabled businesses to thrive, created
and service delivery; high and represented on the National Economic jobs and supported empowerment.
growing debt; instability in councils; Development and Labour Council and “The fundamental changes needed
and deterioration of and lack of providing input on the WPLG, told in this regard are proper governance,
maintenance of infrastructure assets. Š›–Ž›ȂœȱŽŽ”•¢ȱthat the recognition of employing the right people to do the
“The top service delivery priorities the challenges and a review of municipal job, thorough oversight, and funding
per province emphasise the prevalence management was a positive development. models that allow for public-private
of water issues and roads and stormwater “The questions they are posing partnerships. Financial management
management. The debate, therefore, shows that there are no ‘holy cows’. and capacity building are also
is not about whether the system of The DCoG is prepared to consider all vital,” she added. – ’—’ȱ˜‘Š

13 JUNE 2025 IDUPHU·V ZHHNO\ 15

WEEKLY NEWS WRAP

South Africans are poorer now than nine years ago

South Africans are struggling with consumer activity. Easter spending South Africans tend to spend more
cost-of-living pressures, and new in 2025 took a blow because of people on travel, but even that has seen a
data shows they have less purchasing scaling back on non-essential expenses. slight decline, indicative of the tough
power than they did in 2016. economic climate and uncertainty that
This was according to Shené Mothilal,
Solution Owner: Personalisation, Digital
‘WEALTHIER SOUTH South Africans face,” Mothilal said.
Speaking to Farmer’s Weekly,
Money Manager at Standard Bank, AFRICANS TEND TO Dr Frikkie Maré, CEO of the Red
in an interview with BusinessTech. SPEND MORE ON Meat Producers’ Organisation, said
DebtBusters’ Debt Index for
the first quarter of 2025 showed
TRAVEL, BUT EVEN the decrease in purchasing power
was bound to inhibit consumer
that debt levels were climbing, as THAT HAS SEEN A spending on more luxurious items
consumers were increasingly relying SLIGHT DECLINE’ like travel and electronic wares.
on personal loans to bridge the gaps The poorest of the poor in the
between income and expenses. According to Mothilal, spending on country would continue to spend
Despite increased consumer necessities had taken priority. Categories their money mostly on basic items,
confidence, record numbers were like transport and digital connectivity such as food and othesr groceries.
using personal and one-month saw notable increases in April, partly “For instance, should items
loans as lifelines. Nine out of 10 debt due to service providers’ annual price such as potatoes become too
counselling applicants had personal hikes and more road travel. The price expensive to keep on their spending
loans, and debt-to-income ratios hikes resulted in South Africans cutting list, [the poor] would shift to maize
for top earners were at the highest back on other non-essential categories. meal. The same goes for meat.
levels yet, according to the index. Consumers’ careful prioritisation was If mutton prices become too
BusinessTech said that data from also evident in how they spent extra high, a shift towards beef could be
Standard Bank showed that even income like bonuses or 13th cheques. expected. Limited purchasing would,
the traditionally busy March/April “This money typically goes towards however, have an impact on expensive
travel season failed to see significant necessities like groceries. Wealthier foods,” he said. – Annelie Coleman

SA food inflation increase is ‘unsurprising’ – Agbiz

The rise in food inflation in “In the case of meat, price increases be seen as a temporary blip, and all
South Africa was a cause for are expected as a response to the indications are that the situation will go
concern, according to Agbiz. slight recovery in consumer demand, back to normal in the coming season.
This followed an announcement which we have been highlighting “The strengthening of the rand
in May that consumer food price in recent months,” he said. also impacted on food inflation.
inflation increased to 3,3% in “In my opinion, the time
April from 2,2% in March.
According to a report by Trading
POTATOES, ONIONS, has come for interest rates in
South Africa to be lowered.
Economics, the cost of food in AND CARROTS “Consumers are debt ridden
South Africa increased by 4% WERE SOME OF THE and need to have more cash in
year-on-year in April 2025.
Food inflation averaged 6,39% from
VEGETABLE CROPS their pockets,” he explained.
In an article by Business Report,
2009 until 2025, reaching an all-time HARDEST HIT BY Mervyn Abrahams, programme
high of 15,6% in February 2009 and BAD WEATHER coordinator at the Pietermaritzburg
a record low of 0,6% in June 2010. Economic Justice and Dignity Group,
Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist Speaking to Farmer’s Weekly, agricultural said the concern was that inflation
at Agbiz, said in a statement that the economist Dr Johan Willemse said would likely keep rising, leaving
increase was underpinned by the inflation for grain products increased already struggling consumers
rise in price inflation of most of the by 3,3% while vegetables and fruit with difficult decisions about
products in the food basket, but most increased by 8%, following the excessive what food they could afford.
notably of grain products, meat, fats, oils rain and the damage caused by this “Compromising on food is
and vegetables. “This is unsurprising during the production season. not one of the choices that
and reflects the pass-through of the Potatoes, onions, and carrots were people should be making, but
higher agricultural commodity prices we some of the products that were the unfortunately is a lived reality
observed at the end of last year and into hardest hit by bad weather. “The at the moment in the country,”
the start of 2025, particularly with grains. impact on fruits and vegetables should he added. – Annelie Coleman

16 IDUPHU·V ZHHNO\ 13 JUNE 2025

Puff adders are a ‘perfect rodent control system’
Research from the University of the damage, but maintaining healthy puff
Witwatersrand in Johannesburg adder populations could significantly
shows that puff adders (Bitis arietans) reduce these losses without the need
could play a vital part in the control to use costly chemical interventions.
of rodents that threaten agricultural According to the report, puff adders
production on the continent. were able to survive for up to two years
According to an article published in without food after periods of abundant
Scientific Reports in May, puff adders feeding, remaining in the ecosystem
can eat 12 times their normal amount as ‘on-call’ rodent controllers. They
of food when there is a surge in the adapted their hunting to target rodents
rodent population, making them specifically when populations began
far more effective than traditional The puff adder (Bitis arietans) plays an invaluable to increase and were able to respond
role in rodent control and should be considered
mammalian predators and a valuable as a friend of farmers, along with other rapidly to prevent rodent numbers
natural solution for rodent pest control. rodent-eating snakes. AFRICAN SNAKEBITE INSTITUTE from reaching plague proportions.
Speaking to Farmer’s Weekly, “What’s particularly valuable about
Johan Marais, head of the African increase consumption during rodent puff adders is their natural abundance in
Snakebite Institute, said all snakes outbreaks makes them invaluable many African habitats,” Alexander said.
that preyed on rodents, including allies for farmers facing potential “While an individual puff adder
mole snakes (Pseudaspis cana), brown crop devastation,” said Prof Graham consumes much less than a fox or
house snakes (Boaedon capensis) Alexander, who conducted the study. mongoose, their higher population
and cobras (Naja spp.), should be It revealed that individual adders abundance creates a formidable
considered as friends of farmers. were able consume up to 10 rodents collective impact on rodent numbers.
According to him, no other in a single feeding session. They “These findings demonstrate that puff
predator was as efficient in the were ready to feed again just a week adder population management should
control of rodents as snakes. later, providing continuous pest be an essential component of integrated
“Puff adders are essentially management with zero cost to farmers. pest management strategies,” he added.
nature’s perfect rodent control Rodent outbreaks during high rainfall To read the study, visit
system. Their ability to dramatically years caused millions of rands in crop bit.ly/4mx8hde. – Annelie Coleman

Below-normal rainfall expected until September

Maximum and minimum temperatures country during early, mid and late Andries Raath, TLU SA regional
are expected to be above normal winter, above-normal rainfall was manager for the Free State, said
for most parts of South Africa until expected in some parts of Mpumalanga the possibility of below-average
September. However, parts of the during mid and late winter. rainfall in the south-western parts
southern coastal areas can expect The lower rainfall expected in the would come as a hard blow to
below-normal temperatures. country’s south-western parts was farmers, especially crop farmers.
This was according to Cobus Olivier, expected to have a significant impact “It is bound to have an extremely
a prediction research scientist at the on crop and livestock production. negative impact on the production of
South African Weather Service. “Therefore, the relevant grain crops and other crops like fruit
In a statement, he said below-normal decision-makers are encouraged to and vegetables. Food producers came
rainfall was anticipated during advise farmers in these regions to through a devastating drought during
early, mid and late winter over practise soil and water conservation, the past few years followed by erratic
most parts of the country, including proper water harvesting and storage, and and far above-average rainfall in the
the south-western parts. other appropriate farming practices. 2024/25 season. The expected drop in
“These conditions, coupled with the “Elevated temperatures and dry water levels will have a devastating
expected above-normal temperatures, conditions will significantly heighten effect on irrigation farmers. To be faced
are likely to result in lower water wildfire risks, threatening biodiversity, with the possibility of poor rainfall
levels through evapotranspiration ecosystems and infrastructure. is challenging indeed,” he added.
processes in areas that are experiencing Prolonged dry conditions may also According to the Southern Africa
prolonged dry conditions, including elevate respiratory health risks by Regional Climate Outlook Forum,
the south-western parts of the increasing airborne dust and pollutants, the Southern African Development
country,” Olivier added. affecting individuals with chronic Community region mostly received
Although below-normal rainfall respiratory conditions,” Olivier said. normal to above-normal rainfall up
was predicted for most parts of the Speaking to Farmer’s Weekly, Prof to June 2025. – Annelie Coleman

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 17

WEEKLY NEWS WRAP

Wildlife poaching in North West a serious concern

The poaching of game, in all its forms, Service showed an “ostensible lack of cases of cattle theft, according to him.
has become an extremely serious problem interest” in poaching cases. He said Pienaar added that it also often
in North West. This includes hunting very few, if any, were investigated. happened that armed poachers
with dogs, traps and snares, and rifles. Poaching with traps and snares is shot animals moving close to
Speaking to Farmer’s Weekly, Naudé also a serious cause for concern. the fences on game farms.
Pienaar, CEO of Agri North West, “What often happened was that the The fences were lifted up after the
said the incidences of game killing and the carcasses pulled
poaching in the province were out via the lifted fences.
increasing at an alarming rate. Lion du Plessis, president
He ascribed this to, among of Agri Mpumalanga, said
other factors, the poor the situation in that province
economy forcing people to was just as bad as in North
poach wildlife in order to put West, especially relating
food on the table, and people to illegal dog hunting.
who poached to sell the meat “The illegal hunting
as part of the bush meat trade. with hunting rifles is also
“The biggest problem we dramatically on the increase.
have is unscrupulous dog Incidentally, I recently received
owners who trespass on information on a significant
private land with packs of spike in the demand for
dogs. They hunt anything ammunition for hunting
from small game, such as rifles from an arms dealer in
hares, duikers, and steenbok, the province,” he stated.
to bigger antelope like Dr Jane Buys, security
Game like sable antelope are increasingly under threat
eland and sable antelope. as wildlife poaching continues to rise at an alarming risk analyst at Free State
“We have received reports rate in North West. WIKIMEDIA COMMONS Agriculture, said:
of the killing of a young sable “I urgently call on all the
antelope bull by dogs on a farm near perpetrators stretched a wire snare owners of private land in the country
Nietverdiend. We can safely assume the between two trees before chasing the where poaching took place, to never
price of such an animal is hovering at animals in the direction of the trees confront the suspected poachers on their
around R50 000 on average,” he added. and straight into the wire snare.” own but to gather as much evidence
Pienaar also said the South Africa Police The same method was followed in as possible.” – Annelie Coleman

Bee vectoring trial tackles apple core rot problem

Bee-Tech Group, in partnership with Metarhizium and Trichoderma,” he said. apples and we are looking at alternatives
Woolworths and Graaff Fruit, has Bruggeman added that the current trial to fungicides and synthetics,” he said.
launched a new trial using bees to focused on controlling apple core rot, Murray added that, unlike
fight apple core rot in red apples which was mainly caused by the fungal conventional sprays, the trial used
in Ceres in the Western Cape. pathogens Alternaria and Botrytis. a dry powdered formulation.
The project is aimed at reducing “Apple core rot is about 40% Alternaria “We will not be using a liquid. The bees
fungal infections in apples by using and 40% Botrytis. Woolworths has will be inoculated with the dry product
bees to deliver biological products identified this as a major issue, and and then carry it to the flowers they visit.
directly to flowers during pollination. we are hoping that using bees to Most likely we will be using Metarhizium
Speaking to Farmer’s Weekly, Michael deliver biological spores right to the and Trichoderma,” he explained.
Bruggeman, founder of Bee-Tech infection site will help. These spores He said the fungi being used were safe
Group, said the patented bee vectoring either feed on, or outcompete the for the bees and would not affect the
device was first developed with the harmful fungi,” Bruggeman said. honey they produced: “The spores cannot
help of Rhodes University, and later Tom Murray, technical manager for survive with the high sugar content
refined by Bee-Tech’s head of research fruit and horticulture at Woolworths, found in honey, so there is no risk there.”
Jamie Harris and the Bee-Tech team. said they were eager to explore this Murray added that, if successful, the
“We worked on it for about three to natural method of disease control. trial could mark a turning point in
four years, testing different versions. The “We are really keen to have a look and biological crop protection and open the
initial trials were done on blueberries and see if we can get this to work. We do have door for similar applications in other
strawberries using beneficial fungi like fungal pathogens that cause core rot in fruit crops. – Octavia Avesca Spandiel

18 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

Australia’s new transport task World in brief
force to focus on animal welfare UNITED KINGDOM
Fresh Produce Journal has reported
A new taskforce focused are transporting livestock would now go through that British supermarket chain
on livestock transport has daily. It’s crucial for the broader consultation. Waitrose has seen a rush in
been set up by Meat and entire industry to proactively The taskforce demand for British-grown food,
Livestock Australia (MLA) collaborate, ensuring we do complements MLA’s driven by the popularity of
to improve animal welfare, the right thing for our animals recent launch of the farming shows like Clarkson’s
boost supply chain efficiency, and our industry,” she said. Transport Hub website, Farm and Jimmy ands Shivi’s
and promote industry-wide Dundon emphasised an educational platform Farmhouse Breakfast.
education and training. that best practice in offering guidance and Year-on-year sales of home-
The Transport Sustainability livestock transport began resources for road-based grown produce have surged,
Taskforce will identify with proper preparation livestock transport in with British strawberries up
practical animal welfare and an understanding Australia. These initiatives 151%, Jersey Royal apples
indicators to monitor and of individual roles. aim to lift standards, and rising by 89%, and Cox
report on sheep and cattle The group’s draft strategy reinforce the transport apples increasing by 52%.
well-being throughout the had already been presented sector’s vital role in Jake Pickering, head of
road transport process. to transporters at a recent the red meat supply agriculture, aquaculture, and
This data will feed into the national conference and chain. – Staff reporter fisheries at Waitrose & Partners,
Australian beef and sheep said: “Farming shows are doing
sustainability frameworks, more than just entertaining us;
to support transparency they’re making the public stop
and highlight areas that and think about British farming.”
need improvement.
Sharon Dundon, project UNITED STATES
manager for animal Despite winning around 78%
well-being at the MLA, of the votes in the US’s most
said the taskforce brought farming-dependent counties
together role players from last year, President Donald
across the supply chain, Trump’s recent policies have left
including producers, auction many producers struggling.
houses, transporters, agents, Steep tariffs, harsh immigration
retailers, and processors to measures, and the cancellation
encourage collaboration, Meat and Livestock Australia project manager for animal well-being, of key US Department of
Bigrigs.com.au reported. Sharon Dundon, is encouraging collaboration between stakeholders to Agriculture programmes have
“Across the country, trucks ensure the safe transport of livestock. MEAT AND LIVESTOCK AUSTRALIA disrupted markets and labour.
According to The Guardian,
Illinois farmer John Bartman,
for example, was owed
thousands of dollars for his
What lies ahead for EU farmers climate-smart practices.

One year after widespread Top of farmers’ demands farming across the EU. KAZAKHSTAN
protests, Europe’s farmers is economic support: 82% For farmers in Romania In late May, Kazakh
remain under pressure from are calling for fairer profit and Poland, weather Deputy Prime Minister
rising costs, stagnant incomes, distribution, subsidies, and disruptions are a major Serik Zhumangarin met
and policy uncertainty. easier access to loans. concern. They are calling with Gianantonio Tramet
More than 50% of them In addition, 57% want for practical environmental of the Tramite Group, to
are doubtful about the less red tape, while 33% are schemes, improved discuss a joint agricultural
future, and many are seeking improved access to insurance, and guidance supply chain, according to
ready to mobilise again. crop protection tools and on sustainable practices. Kazinform News Agency.
However, according to innovation, especially digital Farmers aren’t rejecting Tramet presented plans
Euronews.com, a new survey technologies. Adoption of green policies; they’re for a €500 million (around
by multinational market these tools remains low simply asking for them R10 billion) Italy-Kazakhstan
research and consulting because of high costs, and a to be effective and Investment Fund.
firm Ipsos, titled ‘Farmers lack of transitional support. financially viable. Italian investors will
Horizon 2025’, points to a Climate-related challenges, To read the full survey, hold 51% and Kazakhstan’s
way forward. That is, if EU from droughts to unseasonal visit bit.ly/4kzHV9j. Baiterek Holding a 49%
policymakers actually act. frost, now regularly affect – Staff reporter stake. – Staff reporter

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 19

NEWS FEATURE Soya Bean Diseases

South African soya bean harvests under

threat from fungal pathogen
Dr Godfrey Kgatle, research coordinator at Grain SA, has warned that the seed-borne fungus
Cercospora kikuchii is threatening soya bean production across the country. Octavia
Avesca Spandiel reports on the diseases it causes, the risks of using untreated seed, and how
certified seed and early monitoring can help farmers protect their yields and grain quality.

I
n 2024, South African soya bean
farmers battled an aggressive
resurgence of Cercospora kikuchii,
a fungus that caused three crop
diseases: Cercospora leaf blight, purple
seed stain, and pod and stem blight.
Dr Godfrey Kgatle, research
coordinator at Grain SA, said the
fungus, widespread across all
production regions in the country,
proved especially damaging due to its
ability to survive in infected seed, and
resurface in the next planting season.
The Cercospora kikuchii fungus causes three major soya bean diseases (from left): Cercospora leaf blight,
RISK OF USING UNTREATED SEED purple seed stain, and pod and stem blight, all of which impact plant health and seed quality. SUPPLIED
Kgatle added that the most severe
yield losses were recorded among window for fungicide decisions, seed According to Kgatle, the cornerstone
farmers who used seed from a previous treatment planning, and grading of effective control lay in the use
crop that was infected or planted strategies,” Kgatle explained. of certified, treated seed.
untreated or poor-quality seed. These Late detection meant not only Certified seed is tested against strict
practices increased the risk of disease lower yields, but also the likelihood quality benchmarks and is less likely
transmission and encouraged fungal of infected seed being replanted, to carry fungal spores. Seed treatment
build-up in the field. “Farmers who do perpetuating the cycle of infection. using chemical or biological agents
not use certified or treated seed are the further strengthened plant defences.
most vulnerable to losses. They risk HARDEST-HIT PROVINCES “Seed treatment kills or suppresses
purple seed stain, leaf blight, and pod While C. kikuchii had been present in all fungi on the seed surface and in
and stem blight, all of which reduce major soya bean-growing regions, certain the surrounding soil. This results
seed quality and yields,” he said. provinces were hit harder last year. in better germination and stronger
According to Kgatle, while many Mpumalanga saw severe cases early in early growth, reducing the risk of
large-scale producers had access to the season, with an increasing number of a disease outbreak,” he said.
certified inputs, smallholders often reports later emerging from North West. While fungicides applied later in the
relied on retained seed, making them season could help, prevention through
particularly susceptible. Infected fields
became hotspots for the spread of
DISEASES CONTROL quality seed remained the most reliable
method for protecting yield and reducing
disease, posing a threat to neighbouring LIES IN THE USE contamination of future seed stock.
farms and regional production stability. OF CERTIFIED,
DISEASE MONITORING ESSENTIAL
TREATED SEED TOXIN-FREE, BUT GRAIN
QUALITY STILL AFFECTED
As the season progressed, producers “In the past season, we saw severe Although C. kikuchii produced a
were urged to begin scouting from cases in Mpumalanga and more compound called cercosporin, it posed
the reproductive growth stage reports are now coming from no toxic risk to humans or livestock.
(R3) onward, an important period the North West,” Kgatle said. However, its impact on seed appearance,
when symptoms became visible. He added that this indicated especially in the form of purple
Cercospora leaf blight typically showed that humidity and prolonged staining, led to lower grain grades.
up on the upper leaves, with a distinctive leaf wetness played a key role “While the fungus isn’t toxic,
reddish-purple to bronze discolouration. in the spread of the disease. it does affect grain grading and
“Monitoring must continue until The regional outbreaks highlighted marketability,” Kgatle said.
harvest because purple seed stain, the need for proactive crop surveillance, Farmers often faced financial losses
and pod and stem blight, only become and more extensive farmer education, when stained seeds were downgraded,
visible later. This gives farmers a critical especially in high-risk areas. even if total yield remained unchanged.

20 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

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AND RAPE HAVE SOMEWHERE TO TURN

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WEEKLY NEWS WRAP

Global politics and economics threaten wine sales

South African wine producers face implications for South Africa, with and the area under production.
significant market risks, according China being South Africa’s biggest Aside from rising input costs, excise
to speakers at the South Africa export destination in 2024, accounting taxes, and competition from other
Wine Summit held recently in for 12% of all exports, followed by alcoholic beverages, he identified
Stellenbosch, Western Cape. the US, which accounted for 8,6%. market risks as one of the biggest
Nikki Weimar, Nedbank’s chief China also accounted for 22% of South challenges facing farmers.
economist, highlighted the challenges Africa’s imports, making it the country’s “The US is South Africa’s fourth-largest
posed by political uncertainty, legislative biggest import destination, whereas wine destination in value. Uncertainty
red tape, electricity supply issues, and the US took fourth place, by accounting over the future of the African Growth
logistical problems, exacerbated by an for 6,8% of South Africa’s imports. and Opportunity Act and potential
‘extremely turbulent’ global economic Locally, however, the outlook tariff replacements, are highlighting
environment, due to US President was improving, as evidenced by an the importance of fostering good
Donald Trump’s policies, which were upturn in real disposable income, market relationships, while diversifying
resulting in trade disruptions. rising consumer confidence and market risks,” Rossouw said.
Weimar said that, in response to the spending, and employment improving He highlighted the role that banks
turmoil, the International Monetary above pre-pandemic levels. can play in helping South African
Fund had adjusted economic growth Additionally, headline and core farmers navigate trade complexities
forecasts for 2025 down by 5 points, inflation measures were now hovering like exchange rate volatility. Nedbank
to 2,8% for the global economy, near or below the lower 3% limit, with for instance, stimulate trade through
1,4% for advanced economies, and price increases of about 72% of all finance and risk mitigation solutions,
3,7% for emerging economies. goods and services in the consumer while also providing working capital
The US’s outlook has been price index basket being below 4,5%. to support production growth.
adjusted down by 0,9 points to 1,8%, Daneel Rossouw, head of sales for Nedbank also collaborated with various
China’s by 0,6 points to 4%, the agriculture at Nedbank, said the wine agricultural industry players to help find
Eurozone by 0,2 points to 0,8%, and industry had been under financial technological solutions and innovations
the UK’s by 0,5 points to 1,1%. stress over the past few years, resulting that improved farming sustainability
These global economic shifts have in a decline in wine grape yields and in effect profitability. – •Ž——Ž’œȱ ›’Ž•

Wine estates urged to tap into domestic tourism

Strategies for unlocking agritourism visitors should not be underestimated. for 21% of the visitors, 16% in the
value were highlighted at the South Marisah Nieuwoudt, tourism manager Klein Karoo, 11% in Robertson, 9% in
Africa Wine Summit, held recently in at South Africa Wine, pointed out that Breedekloof, and 5% in Durbanville.
Stellenbosch in the Western Cape. research into South African wine tourists Based on the research, it was also
Melanie Leloup, South Africa done in 2022 revealed that about 34% evident that domestic tourists help
Tourism’s trade relations manager of tourists were foreign visitors, while make up for lower overseas visitor
for the domestic market, said tourists the majority were domestic visitors. numbers during the winter months.
were looking for a full holiday Nieuwoudt said that there was a
experience with a variety of activities. misconception that domestic visitors
She therefore encouraged wine estates WINE TOURISTS ARE crashed with friends when visiting
to collaborate to create package deals that LOOKING FOR MORE wine regions, but they found that 58%
also helped to grow overnight stays.
She explained how the South
OF A FULL HOLIDAY of the room nights sold in the Cape
Winelands went to domestic tourists.
African tourism initiative Sho’t EXPERIENCE She also pointed out that consumer
Left connected travellers through a preference research revealed that 15%
platform that listed accommodation, Of the latter, roughly 37% lived of wine estate visitors were merely
experiences, and tourism products. within 40km of the vicinity, and curious, whereas 60% were intentionally
She added that wine estates could 29% lived more than 40km away. visiting the wine estate for a wine
take advantage of the campaign by The research revealed that overseas tasting or experience. The remaining
registering and creating deals on visitors primarily visited iconic wine 25% were categorised as wine lovers.
the Sho’t Left Partner Platform. routes, but still only accounted for about “You need to read the audience.
Leloup also said that while 47% of the visitors in Constantia, Messaging to curious visitors and
overseas visitors created a unique 40% in Stellenbosch, 37% in Franschhoek, those seeking experience should be
opportunity to develop brand affiliation and 26% in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. less technical than when dealing with
internationally, the value of domestic In the Swartland, they accounted wine lovers,” she said. – •Ž——Ž’œȱ ›’Ž•

22 IDUPHU·V ZHHNO\ 13 JUNE 2025

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WEEKLY NEWS WRAP

Wine sector’s future lies in ‘less is more’ approach

Despite South Africa’s 366-year wine Information and Systems, only 12%, Basson said the industry had become
heritage, wine sales have only been or 10 581ha, of the 86 544ha far more strategic when planting
deregulated in the past 30 years, making under production in South new vineyards, with nothing
South African a rather new player on Africa was under five years old, planted without a plan or market.
the highly competitive international compared with the ideal 20%. Technology was also harnessed as
wine market. This was according to Robertson sat with 17% of vineyards much as possible to ensure the right
Rico Basson, CEO of South Africa Wine, in this age range, Breedekloof and rootstock and variety was matched
who spoke at the South Africa Wine Worcester 15%, Olifants River 14%, Klein with the right soil, planted in optimal
Summit held recently in Stellenbosch, Karoo 13% and Cape South Coast 12%. conditions, in the right direction and
Western Cape. He reminded delegates The Swartland and Stellenbosch sat on the best possible trellis system
that it takes 30 to 50 years to build a with 10% in this age range, Paarl 9%, for the targeted wine outcome.
new wine brand from scratch, requiring Cape Town 8% and Northern Cape 3%. The Gen-Z Vineyard Project, he
focus and avoiding distractions. He said, was driving innovation in the
mentioned The Chocolate Block and ‘WE HAVE SEEN industry, by planting more than 50
Rupert & Rothschild as two brands that
had accomplished this so far. According
WINERIES SHIFTING sites across the wine production
region in the past seven years.
to Basson, the industry’s future lay in FROM BULK It addressed sector-specific
producing high-quality wine and not PRODUCTION TO challenges by equipping wine
just higher quantities of wine. “We
have seen wineries shifting from bulk
CREATING BRANDS’ growers with advanced tools to
enhance decision-making; tracked
production to creating their own brands Of the vineyards in this age range, the suitability of cultivars, clones and
with a ‘less is more’ philosophy. The Chenin Blanc was the most planted, rootstocks to different soils, climates
approach has led to fewer wineries, representing 1 532ha under production. and production goals; and partnered
not due to closures, but due to strategic Sauvignon Blanc took a close second with educational institutions to
collaborations,” he explained. with 1 516ha, followed by Chardonnay support the development of new
Slow replanting was another challenge. with 1 110ha, Cabernet Sauvignon with vineyards dedicated to teaching and
According to South Africa Wine Industry 1 002ha and Pinotage with 985ha. research initiatives. – •Ž——Ž’œȱ ›’Ž•

Transforming wine marketing with technology

Wineries should use data technologies, larger audience, as well as AI’s ability farmers to first think about the
machine learning and artificial to generate product-linked visuals. goal for which they want to use a
intelligence (AI) to strengthen Her advice was to explore various technology: whether it is to save
marketing. This was the message AI platforms to find the best fit for costs, increase exports or target
from Joanna Dabrowska, founder of marketing strategies. These ranged a new market or audience.
Wine World Wonders, at the South from ChatGPT, Meta AI, Google’s Next, structured data should be
Africa Wine Summit recently held Gemini and Claude to Microsoft collected to help with customer support
in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. Copilot, Grok and Canva. management, export and vineyard
Dabrowska highlighted various She also mentioned Google Meet’s decisions, and lower-barrier AI tools
innovations transforming the industry, new translation function that should be used to help with market
such as robotics for precision tasks like promises to improve communication forecasting and sentiment analysis.
weeding and spraying, remote sensing between people with different Wineries should then also map
for enhanced vineyard management, languages during online meetings. their storytelling journey, with QR
digital twins for experiment evaluations, Dabrowska emphasised how codes and consumer touchpoints.
QR codes for digital storytelling these technologies were adopted by She said it made sense to collaborate
and social media, blockchain for various wineries across the world. with other producers on tech pilot
wine authentication and agentic AI The most interesting being a small projects and to consult a data expert
for customer service support. organic winery, called Costaflores, to build a strategy and road map.
She predicted that AI would become in Argentina, that was using open With climate change, Dabrowska
increasingly important in direct-to- source and blockchain technologies expected these technologies would
consumer engagements and digital to turn their wine into something play a crucial role in linking with
marketing. To illustrate, she showed like a cryptocurrency, and allowing younger generations and showcasing
how she used an AI platform to turn consumers to have a direct say in the sustainability efforts, such as
one of her web stories into a cartoon management of their vineyards. regenerative farming, biodiversity
that made the story accessible to a When using innovation, she advised and water usage. – •Ž——Ž’œȱ ›’Ž•

24 IDUPHU·V ZHHNO\ 13 JUNE 2025

ECRDA repurposed to drive agri commercialisation
The Eastern Cape Rural Development full-scale commercial agriculture. MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe said the
Agency (ECRDA) is being “This is not merely about increasing province had allocated a dedicated
repositioned to lead an agricultural production; it is about driving budget to support ECRDA’s new role.
commercialisation strategy aimed at competitiveness through aggregation “In this year’s policy speech, we
unlocking the economic potential of for scale, and creating sophisticated emphasised the need to reposition
the province’s highly fertile land. value chains that benefit farmers the agency to drive economic growth.
Speaking to Farmer’s Weekly, ECRDA and rural communities first and We have encouraged the agency to
CEO Simpiwe Somdyala said it foremost,” Somdyala said. establish strategic partnerships with
was time to confront the paradox He added that over the next agribusiness, smallholder and communal
of vast fertile land coexisting with five years, the agency would implement farmers, and investors,” she said.
some of the highest poverty and five core programmes: a grain, Kontsiwe said a commodity-based
unemployment rates in the country. fodder and vegetable production approach would guide the
“Despite being blessed with some revolution; livestock commercialisation; commercialisation of agriculture, aimed
of South Africa’s most arable land, forestry and timber processing, at boosting the sector’s contribution
our agricultural potential remains and high-value horticulture; to the economy and creating jobs.
largely dormant; an untapped technology-driven improvements Somdyala called on the private
wellspring of prosperity waiting to in field crops and animal fibre; and sector to come forward not as
be unleashed,” Somdyala said. the development of agri clusters and contractors, but as partners in
He added that for decades, farming rural enterprise development hubs. transforming rural economies.
in rural parts of the province had Somdyala said the initiative focused on “Rural agricultural development
largely been synonymous with retaining wealth within the province. is not charity. It is opportunity.
subsistence, a system that has locked “By aggregating smallholder “The Eastern Cape’s untapped
many families into cycles of poverty. production and creating direct market potential represents one of South
The repurposed ECRDA now linkages, we are eliminating middlemen Africa’s most promising
carried a clear mandate to lead the and maximising returns to farmers.” investment frontiers,” he said.
shift from survivalist farming to Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture – Octavia Avesca Spandiel

Tsitsikamma farmer support to boost food security

Eastern Cape MEC for Agriculture “As the department, we are deliberate accessible to remote communities.
Nonceba Kontsiwe recently visited in our efforts to increase food Among the beneficiaries was emerging
the Tsitsikamma community to production, combat hunger, ensure livestock farmer Neliswa Msizi, who
hand over critical farming supplies food security and sustain livelihoods. said the support came just in time:
as part of the department’s ongoing We want these farmers to grow their “The pig feed came at the right time.
drive to improve food security own food, expand their livestock I had 29 pigs, and I had to slaughter
and support emerging farmers. and become a source of hope in their at least 10 because of the high price
Speaking to Farmer’s Weekly, communities,“ Kontsiwe said. of feed at the co-operative.
Kontsiwe said the supplies, which “The five bags I received were
included fertiliser, gardening tools,
seedlings, seeds, and animal feed, were
‘WHEN YOU GIVE extremely helpful and I am very
grateful. I believe the initiative can
aimed at helping the communal SOMEONE FEED, make a big difference. After the recent
farmers cultivate their land and FERTILISER, SEEDS, outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease,
expand livestock production.
She added that the intervention
AND TOOLS, YOU we lost a lot of animals. Hopefully,
next time we will also receive support
formed part of the department’s SHOULD COME BACK with veterinary medicines.”
broader strategy to accelerate TO SEE THE RESULTS’ Msizi mentioned that the
service delivery in rural areas and department needed to follow up
strengthen local food systems. It was She explained that the scheme more regularly with farmers.
delivered under the Ilima Lokulima encouraged partnerships with “If they could come at least once every
Community Food Production communal and emerging farmers to three months, instead of once a year, it
Scheme, a long-term initiative scale up household and community- would help. When you give someone
that will run from 2025 to 2030. level food production. The recent feed, fertiliser, seeds, and tools, you
“Food prices continue to increase, visit was one of several planned should come back to see the results and
and consumers might not be interventions aimed at making assess what else that person needs,”
able to keep up with inflation. agricultural resources more she said. – Octavia Avesca Spandiel

13 JUNE 2025 IDUPHU·V ZHHNO\ 25

COMMODITY PRICE TRENDS

Shifting weather,
harvest cycles, and
consumer demand
This week, Absa AgriBusiness analyses the trends that have influenced vegetable supply
and demand dynamics at the major fresh produce markets over the past month.

F
rom early April to mid- Supplies are expected to remain increase in volumes. This was due
May, fluctuations in supply constrained until June, so prices to persistent consumer demand and a
volumes across key vegetable will likely be volatile within the break from the heavy rain in March,
categories have directly impacted R3 000/t to R4 000/t range before which allowed harvesting to continue.
price trends, highlighting the potentially peaking again in July.
sensitivity of fresh produce
markets to production dynamics. CARROTS CABBAGE VOLUMES
Monthly trends were fairly closely RECOVERED TO
CABBAGES
From the first week of April until the
aligned with supply dynamics, as
average m/m prices decreased by
LEVELS LAST
first week of May, market volumes 7,6% (see Graph 1), from R10 254/t OBSERVED AT THE
remained limited compared with the to R9 473/t, driven by an 8,6% END OF MARCH
same period last year, resulting in increase in average volumes.
fluctuating price trends. However, Annually, carrot prices were Annual trends suggest a notable
in the week ending 9 May, cabbage up by 58,4% (see Graph 2), despite decline in production, with average
volumes recovered to levels last annual volumes being 53,2% volumes down by 63% y/y in mid-May.
seen at the end of March. higher than the previous year. Analysts expect onion prices to
Month-on-month (m/m), average prices Carrot volumes have been elevated remain on an increasing trend for
dropped sharply by 36,8% (see Graph 1), since early April and are expected to the rest of May and throughout June,
falling from R4 777/t to R3 018/t, driven remain slightly high, maintaining a as volumes supplied are predicted
by a 13,6% rise in average volumes. downward pressure on market prices. to remain on the lower end.
Year-on-year (y/y), average prices This trend is likely to persist until
decreased by 19% (see Graph 2) due to a mid-June, when a softening in volumes POTATOES
223,6% increase in volumes supplied. may allow for a slight recovery in prices. Potato prices softened slightly in
Despite this short-term recovery, April, primarily due to reduced
cabbage volumes remain historically ONIONS market volumes following increased
low, after the lowest harvest in On a m/m basis, average prices rose rainfall, which delayed harvests
five years was recorded. by 20,3% (see Graph 3), despite a 6,4% in key production regions.

Graph 2: Year-on-year changes (%) in volumes

Graph 1: Month-on-month changes 9%) in carrots and cabbages and prices of carrots and cabbages
Carrot price (R/t) -7,6% Carrot price (R/t) 58,4%

Carrot volume (t) 8,6% Carrot volume (t) 53,2%

Cabbage Cabbage
price (R/t) -36,8% price (R/t) -19%

Cabbage Cabbage
volume (t) 13,6% volume (t) 223,6%

-40% -30% -20% -10% 0% 10% 20% -50% 0% 50% 100% 150% 200% 250%

26 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

 JHB TRACTOR SPARES
Graph 3: Month-on-month changes (%)
in potatoes and onions

1971-2025
Potato
-27,7%
price (R/t)
SPECIALISTS IN REPLACEMENT PARTS FOR

Potato
FORD / FIAT / NEW HOLLAND / MF
39%
volume (t)
Tel: (011) 677-2100
Onion Tel: (011) 615-6421
price (R/t)
20,3%
Email: jhbtrac@icon.co.za
www.jhbtractorspares.co.za
Onion
6,4%
volume (t)
32 Davies Road
-40% -30% -20% -10% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% Malvern East, Germiston

In mid-May, m/m average prices declined by 27,7%,

supported by a 39% increase in volumes (see Graph 3).
On an annual basis, average prices increased by 15%,
despite a modest 3% rise average volumes supplied.
Analysts anticipate a slight downward trend in
prices by the end of May and into June, as additional
supplies from regions like Christiana in North West
and areas in KwaZulu-Natal enter the market. Modest
price recoveries may follow in June, supported
by a projected increase in consumer demand.

TOMATOES
Average weekly tomato prices increased

ALL
by 15,6%, supported by a 10,8% decrease
in average volumes supplied.
In monthly terms, average prices fell by 15,1%
(see Graph 4) from R12 952/t to R10 994/t, despite a
1,6% decrease in average volumes supplied due
to lower-than-expected consumer demand.
Average y/y prices were 38% lower, despite
THE
annual average volumes being 89,2% lower.
Analysts anticipate tomato prices to trend
marginally lower in June and July, as volumes are
expected to increase slightly during that period.
LATEST
For more information, email Zama Sangweni,

AGRI
agricultural economist at Absa AgriBusiness,
at zama.sangweni@absa.africa. FW

NEWS
Graph 4: Month-on-month changes (%) in tomatoes

Tomato
-15,1%
price (R/t)

ONLINE
VISIT FARMERSWEEKLY.CO.ZA
Tomato
-1,6%
volume (t)

-16% -14% -12% -10% -8% -6% -4% -2% 0%

GLOBAL FARMING

Interesting times
ahead as US trade
policy unfolds
While the Trump administration’s tariff war will have a global impact, local factors will largely
determine the outlook for South African agriculture, writes Dr Koos Coetzee.

T
rumponomics is becoming a summer grain and oilseed crops Absa emphasised climate variability
buzzword. We do indeed live in in the 2024/25 production year. as a trend that would impact on
interesting times and since his The latest (March 2025) crop estimates agriculture. Extreme weather conditions
election, US President Donald Trump has predict a 13% and 29% increase in the may play a role going forward.
made some shocking announcements. maize and soya bean crops, respectively. Currently, production conditions for
This began with increased tariffs on There is still a lot of uncertainty livestock farmers are good. This may
imports from China and Canada in about the actual size of the crops, with result in a decrease in the red meat
February, and the real shocker came farmers reporting damage from the supply as farmers sell fewer animals in
with the 2 April announcement of heavy rainfall in February and March, an attempt to build herds. This won’t
huge tariffs on imports from various as well as armyworm infestations. happen quickly, as farmers’ funds are
countries – including a 30% tariff on SAFEX spot prices for yellow limited after the drought and lower
South African exports to the US. maize peaked at R5 736/t at the end prices over the past couple of years.
A recent article in Harvard Business of January and have since fallen to The demand for animal products
Review points out that while the US R4 750/t. White maize prices peaked at did improve in 2024 as interest rates
engages in a tariff war on all other R6 954/t and then dropped to R5 200/t. decreased, fuel prices stabilised, and
countries, individual countries consumers used the money from
only have to contend with higher TARIFFICATION IS the two-pot system to repay debt.
tariffs from the US. Therefore, the
US is at a huge disadvantage.
PROBABLY NOT Consumer expenditure did increase,
but largely on semi-durable goods. Very
THE RIGHT WAY TO high increases in rates and taxes and
NOT TOO GLOOMY FOR SA FARMERS ‘MAKE AMERICA electricity tariffs may limit consumer
Market reactions suggests increased
tariffication is probably not the correct
GREAT AGAIN’ spending on non-durable goods.
Beef prices are increasing slowly
way to ‘make America great again’. White maize trades at prices close but surely, while lamb prices are
The US’s action has already led to to import parity, with yellow maize expected to remain stable.
other countries imposing higher slightly below import parity. Export prices depend largely on
tariffs, limiting trade and negatively Both white and yellow maize future supply and demand factors in importing
affecting global economic growth. contracts trade higher than export countries. Uncertain weather globally
With the exception of some specific parity of R3 838/t, calculated at the and risks to economic growth from
industries like citrus fruit – particularly peak rand/dollar rate of R19,48. Maize geopolitical factors make it difficult to
Western Cape citrus producers, who prices will probably remain nearer estimate future prices. A weakening
send 20% of their exports to the US – to import than export parity. rand may help to increase prices
this is unlikely to have a major direct A 29% increase is expected for the soya for South African exporters.
impact on South African agriculture. bean crop. Currently soya bean futures The US’s trade war against all-comers
There is currently a 90-day moratorium contracts for July 2025 and December added to uncertainty for farmers.
on the tariffs in place. It is also unsure 2025 trade slightly above R8 000/t, However, with a still-growing South
whether the proposed tariffs will compared to import parity at R9 000/t. African market driven by improving
cancel the existing African Growth and Meanwhile, wheat future consumer sentiment and income,
Opportunity Act trade preferences. prices are stable at R 6 400/t. along with more favourable climatic
While the Trump tariff war will conditions, the outlook for local
have a global impact, local factors ROLE OF CLIMATIC VARIABILITY farmers in 2025/26 is likely to improve.
will largely determine the outlook Extensive livestock farmers faced several Dr Koos Coetzee is an independent
for South Africa agriculture. years of below-average rainfall. Extensive agricultural economist. Email him
A more favourable summer farming areas had good rain, and the at farmersweekly@caxton.co.za.
season has resulted in larger La Niña season is expected to continue. Subject line: Global farming. FW

28 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

FOCUS ON
ANIMAL HEALTH
& NUTRITION
13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 29
BOTTOM LINE Oversight Body

AFMA: the voice of

the South African
animal feed industry
The Animal Feed Manufacturers’ Association (AFMA) is the official representative body of the South African
feed industry, serving the poultry and livestock sectors. Liesl Breytenbach, executive director of AFMA,
spoke to Magda du Toit about the organisation’s mandate, strategic pillars, and standards.

Who or what is AFMA? AFMA Code of Conduct logo

SUPPLIED
AFMA is the official as a visible sign of adherence
representative body for to strict quality controls and
the animal feed sector. responsible ingredient use.
We position and align ourselves The code aligns with legislation
with the industry by creating an and helps ensure that every
enabling business environment step of the feed manufacturing
that will benefit our members. process meets high safety
We act as the critical link and quality standards.
between crop production and
the food chain, ensuring ‘Safe What is AFMA’s mandate?
Feed for Safe Food’ through Our mandate is to represent,
LIESL BREYTENBACH
collaboration, compliance, support, and advance
and strategic leadership. South Africa’s animal feed
industry through feed
Who are your members? safety, regulation, skills development, and
By connecting manufacturers, suppliers, industry sustainability. This includes ensuring
and service providers, we bring the members operate within national regulatory
animal feed industry together. At present frameworks, such as compliance with the
we have 64 full members, 80 associate Fertilizers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies
members, and 20 affiliate members. and Stock Remedies Act (No. 36 of 1947).
Full members comprise core feed manufacturers.
These members form the heart of the industry, EACH FEED PRODUCT
producing balanced animal feeds that
nourish the nation’s livestock and poultry.
BEGINS WITH A
Associate members provide the essential CAREFULLY BALANCED,
components, such as raw materials, speciality SCIENTIFICALLY
ingredients, as well as vitamins and minerals
used in premixtures. Our affiliate members
FORMULATED RATION
include service providers to the feed industry, How does AFMA position
such as analytical services, consultation itself in the industry?
services, and installation services. As a dynamic animal feed thought leader,
our role is not just to represent, but to lead.
What is the AFMA Code We are also a member of the International
of Conduct, and why is it Feed Industry Federation, ensuring alignment
important to your members? with global feed safety standards.
It is a self-regulatory mechanism that sets
the benchmark for feed safety, quality What makes AFMA relevant
assurance, and good manufacturing in agriculture today?
practices in the animal feed sector. We provide expert regulatory updates and
All full and associate members must adhere industry insights. It also creates a platform
to AFMA’s Code of Conduct, and members are for members to collaborate, learn and grow,
audited every two years by an independent third as well as access training needs. We want
party. Only compliant members may display the to build credibility and confidence in the

30 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

industry across the grain and livestock value team. Each member brings a specialised focus, ABOVE:
chains and help ensure the industry is trusted, covering trade, regulatory affairs, technical Overall feed production
in South Africa is
competitive, and well equipped to meet South services, member engagement, training and skills between 12 million and
Africa’s evolving food security needs. development, event coordination, and finance. 13 million tons annually.
Feed is where it all starts in livestock farming. We also welcomed our first intern in GETTY IMAGES
By helping ensure the feed is accessible, safe, 2024, showing our commitment to youth
affordable, nutritious, and responsibly made, we development and industry exposure.
support farmers, strengthens food security, and
helps keep the animal protein value chain healthy. On which areas does AFMA focus?
Our work is based on four key strategic pillars:
AFMA will celebrate its 80th ȊȲEnsuring the consistent supply of
anniversary in 2025. What does sufficient and affordable animal feed for the
it mean for the future of the production of meat, milk, eggs, and fish;
association and the industry? ȊȲUsing innovative nutritional strategies
Celebrating 80 years marks more than a milestone; to produce nutritious animal feed in a
it affirms our role as a trusted pillar within responsible and sustainable way;
South African agriculture. It reflects decades ȊȲPromoting good manufacturing
of progress in feed safety, regulation, and practices in the provision of safe feed to
industry collaboration, while also reinforcing enhance consumer confidence; and
our responsibility to lead into the future. ȊȲSupporting training opportunities and skills
The past has built our credibility. The future development in the animal feed industry.
demands our continued leadership. The past
provides a learning opportunity, but going What do your members
forward, we need to address the challenges that contribute towards feed
will restrict the provision of safe, affordable, and production in South Africa?
nutritious feed to livestock and poultry farmers. Overall feed production in South Africa is between
12 million tons and 13 million tons annually, with
Tell us more about the AFMA team. our members contributing approximately seven
We operate with a lean, but skilled and dedicated million tons; they thus contribute about 58% of the

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 31

BOTTOM LINE Oversight Body

animal feed produced. Our footprint is especially quality raw materials and speciality feed
strong in the broiler (99,66%), aquaculture (99,03%), additives to meet the animal’s nutritional
and layer (82,76%) segments. The majority of needs at every stage of development.
the remaining feed is typically mixed on-farm The components of balanced feed plays
for own use, for example at feedlots, and is not an important role in improving nutrient
commercially sold to livestock producers. uptake, ensuring consistent performance, and
supporting gut health. Optimum gut health is
Have you seen growth in any important to reduce an animal’s dependency on
of these subdivisions? antimicrobials during disease, and to [mimimise]
Over the past three decades, the poultry environmental challenges during production.
industry has shown the most significant and
sustained growth in both feed consumption What does AFMA do to ensure a
and consumer demand in South Africa. high standard in animal nutrition?
National consumption of chicken meat We promote high standards in animal nutrition
has surged from under 350 000t in 1980 and feeding through technical leadership,
to over two million tons in 2024, while ensuring science-based regulations and
per capita poultry consumption has more industry standards, and supporting continuous
than tripled, from 11,6kg/year in 1980 to an professional development for animal scientists.
estimated 35,5kg/year in 2024, making it the These elements form the core of the AFMA Code
country’s most-consumed animal protein. of Conduct, and compliant member companies
proudly display the AFMA Code
of Conduct logo to encourage
consumer and client confidence.
AFMA works to:
ȊȲSupport nutritionists and
feed formulators with technical
updates and regulatory guidance;
ȊȲEnsure that all animal feed
marketed is registered under Act
No. 36 of 1947, and formulated by
South African Council for Natural
Scientific Professions (SACNASP)-
accredited professionals; and
ȊȲInvest in skills development
through training and student
development opportunities.

Do you foresee global

trade wars having an
influence on the local
feed industry?
Global trade wars do not just
affect the countries involved;
the impact ripples outward
ABOVE: It also underscores the critical role that our as we are part of an interconnected global
AFMA works to support members play in food security and sustaining economy. While Africa may not be a central
feed formulators with
technical updates and the supply chain, from scientifically formulated player in the current global trade wars, we
regulatory guidance on the broiler rations to on-farm delivery. are undeniably caught in the crossfire.
production of animal feed. If there are a great deal of uncertainties,
MAGDA DU TOIT Why is good animal nutrition investors can pull back their investments
important when it comes to due to a reluctance to engage in risks. An
animal productivity? increase in tariffs results in increased costs
Animal nutrition is the heart of livestock for businesses. In the end, the consumer will
productivity. It ensures that animals grow bear the brunt of these tariff increases.
efficiently, reproduce successfully, and
stay resilient to diseases. Whether it’s a What are the biggest challenges that
kilogram of meat, a litre of milk, or a tray of the animal feed industry faces?
eggs, each product begins with a carefully ȊȲDiminished rail infrastructure results
balanced, scientifically formulated ration. in increased road transport costs;
These rations are formulated using high- ȊȲPort congestion and inefficiencies delay

32 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

the importation of essential
feed ingredients;
ȊȲDisruption in electricity supply
severely impacts manufacturing
and increases costs due to the
need to provide alternative energy;
ȊȲConsistent supply of
potable water is critical in feed
manufacturing and animal
production, and any disruption
in the quantity or quality of water
will impact the feed industry;
ȊȲIncreased costs of major raw
materials, such as maize and soya
bean oilcake, due to drought or the
impact of macroeconomic factors
will influence the provision of
affordable animal feed and the
profitability of the feed sector;
ȊȲOutbreaks of diseases, such
as highly pathogenic avian
influenza, foot-and-mouth disease,
and African swine fever, directly
impact the demand for animal
feed due to the severe reduction
in animal numbers. Since feed is
produced on demand, it results
in less feed being produced and
has a significant influence on
the sector’s profitability; and
ȊȲOutdated feed legislation (since 1947) second year; it challenges production and ABOVE:
is not supporting innovation in animal maintenance professionals involved in the science AFMA members account
for almost 100% of all
nutrition, and novel feed products cannot be of feed milling to enhance plant efficiencies. broiler feed produced
marketed in time. This not only impacts the We also partner with feed manufacturers in the country.
feed industry but also limits the growth and across the country to offer students exposure FW ARCHIVE
prosperity of livestock and poultry farmers. to commercial feed mill operations,
giving students valuable hands-on
Which global trends do you foresee experience and introducing them to career
having an influence on the local opportunities in the animal feed sector.
industry in the next few years? To further support youth development, we
Any geopolitical instability or weather initiated the Intervarsity Writer’s Cup in 2016 to
conditions that influence the availability and encourage research and writing skills in the field
affordability of feed ingredients will influence of animal nutrition, and we annually award the
the local feed industry. Consequently, increased best published article in the AFMA Matrix. A
export markets for our animal products, prestigious Student of the Year Award is given
such as meat, will benefit the feed sector and annually to recognise academic excellence.
increase the local demand for animal feed. We are committed to the continuous professional
development of animal scientists, and offer a
Is AFMA involved in any variety of SACNASP-accredited workshops and
specific training programmes symposiums throughout the year where scientists
for young people? can earn Continuing Professional Development
Yes, we are actively involved in various points to maintain their professional registration.
training initiatives to bring people into This year, we also initiated a tertiary
the feed industry and upskill them. engagement platform in partnership with
One of our key initiatives, the Blended Learning nine universities to align research needs,
Programme, provides theoretical knowledge and support day-one competencies of animal
practical skills at the workplace to feed mill and science students, and help build a strong and
pelleting operators, as well as stock controllers. sustainable talent pipeline for the industry.
This is supported by a high-level short course Email the Animal Feed Manufacturers’ Association at
in feed milling technology that is offered every admin@afma.co.za, or phone 012 663 9097/3282. FW

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 33

FOCUS ON ANIMAL HEALTH & NUTRITION

What makes
good feed
... good?
Feed quality is influenced by many factors. Magda du
Toit spoke to feed manufacturers to find out how they
ensure quality, from the handling and storage of raw
materials to the processing and distribution of feed.

T
RIGHT: he quality of livestock feed
The heat generated in significantly influences the
pelleting breaks down some
of the starches in the feed overall health of animals.
components and makes High-quality feed should
them easier to digest. therefore include a balanced mix
Another advantage is that of nutrients from highly digestible
segregation and selective
picking of ingredients ingredients while also being safe to
are prevented. By eating consume. It should support optimal
pelleted feed, animals are growth and physiological functioning,
more likely to receive a reproduction, and overall health.
completely mixed ration.
PHOTOS: MAGDA DU TOIT In contrast, poor-quality feed can
lead to nutrient deficiencies and
introduce harmful contaminants
like pathogens, mycotoxins, toxins,
and chemical residues that can
negatively impact livestock.
Preventing and controlling
feed-borne pathogens is
vital for the health and productivity of energy, protein, and fibre. They can be sourced
livestock owners’ production systems. either directly from farmers or through
Feed contamination and recontamination can commodity traders, depending on availability,
occur at any step within the feed supply chain, pricing, and supply chain logistics,” she explains.
from the sourcing of raw materials to the storage Cromhout points out that micro-
and transportation of finished feeds. Since ingredients include products like
contaminants can compromise animal health, limestone, amino acids, vitamins, minerals,
feed manufacturers employ comprehensive enzymes, and other feed additives.
FAST FACTS strategies to mitigate risks in this regard. “Although these components are used in smaller
The formulation
of animal feed is “As the representative body of South quantities, they play a crucial role in meeting
regulated by the Africa’s animal feed industry, the Animal the specific nutritional and physiological needs
Fertilizers, Farm
Feeds, Agricultural Feed Manufacturers’ Association [AFMA] of the animal. Micro-ingredients are typically
Remedies enforces a self-regulatory code of conduct that premixed into vitamin-mineral premixes to ensure
and Stock upholds feed safety, quality assurance, and proper distribution in feed. These products are
Remedies Act.
best practices in feed production,” explains typically imported by various companies, and
All forms of animal Petru Fourie, operations manager at AFMA. there are numerous variations and formulations
feed are the result
of a carefully of each available in the market,” she explains.
crafted process RAW MATERIALS Cromhout adds that the selection of specific
designed to meet
the nutritional
According to Marzanne Cromhout, products is determined by a company’s
needs of animals. technical manager at Rossgro Feeds, nutritionist, who bases the decision on the
raw materials are broadly classified into animal’s nutritional requirements, scientific
Nutrient levels,
digestibility, and macro- and micro-ingredients. research, and technical data, as well as the
palatability all “Macro raw materials typically include proven efficacy of the product through
play a crucial role
in animal feed maize, wheaten bran, gluten, full-fat soya, and validated trials and performance results.
manufacturing. oilcake. These ingredients form the bulk of the Tanel Meyer, technical specialist at Chemuniqué,
formulation and are essential for providing stresses that when procuring raw materials, it is

34 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

vital to understand the suitability of ingredients equipped to handle, ensuring efficient
for the specific species’ diet, as well as the type of storage, handling, and incorporation into
diets within species, such as layers versus broilers. the feed-manufacturing process.
In addition, Meyer points out that the
type of grain used in a feed is determined FEED FORMULAS
by its nutrient composition. With regard to specific feed formulas,
“Maize, for example, is a great source of Cromhout explains that the formulation process
energy in livestock feed, whereas wheaten bran involves aligning the nutrient requirements
contributes a greater portion of fibre to the of the animal with its physiological and
feed. Grain quality is impacted by its moisture production goals. This ensures optimal
content, as higher moisture levels promote health, performance, and feed efficiency.
mould growth and potentially an increased According to Dr Naudé Rossouw,
risk of mycotoxin contamination. Grain should director at Rossgro Feeds, feed
also be free of foreign materials, including formulations are designed based on:
stones, dirt, and weed seeds,” she says. ȊȲ The type of animal, for example,
Meyer emphasises that it is important to poultry, cattle, sheep, or swine;
source raw materials from reputable suppliers ȊȲ Their production status, such as growth
who comply with government regulations and phase, lactation, or reproduction; and
follow industry standards, providing a product ȊȲ The desired product, such as small or jumbo
that conforms to the expected nutrient level of eggs, or 1,8kg broilers every four to six weeks.
the specific ingredient. “This includes, but is not
limited to, nutrients such as moisture content,
crude protein, fibre, and ash,” she says.
According to her, when purchasing large-
volume products like grain, the availability
of the product will impact the usage and
inclusion in formulations and by-products.
“It is important to always have enough stock
to avoid any unnecessary variation in diet
composition and costly reformulations.”
Meyer says using enzymes in livestock
feed is a tool to help enhance nutrient
utilisation and feed efficiency, reduce feed
costs, and minimise environmental waste.
“Adding enzymes to a diet is, however,
animal- and substrate-specific. Using a phytase
in feed to release phytic-bound phosphorus is
mainly applied in monogastric animals, who
lack a sufficient amount of endogenous phytase
to break down phytic acid,” she explains.
She adds that enzymes play a key role
in unlocking certain nutrients that would
otherwise have been unavailable to animals Meyer adds that formulations are determined ABOVE:
and would potentially have been excreted. by the species (such as ruminant or poultry), Feed quality is the primary
driver of feed intake and
“When choosing an enzyme supplier, make the class of farm feed (for instance, dairy versus animal productivity. The
sure that its claims can be backed by peer- feedlot), and will also take age, production level, quality of the feed on
reviewed science. It is even better if the product and type of feed (concentrate versus complete offer also determines
has been validated with proven efficacy in feed) into consideration. There is a fine balance the type and amount of
supplements required.
South Africa, using local ingredients.” between the nutritional requirements of the target
animal in relation to the target production.
PACKAGING AND DELIVERY FORMATS “Diets also vary depending on the intensity of
Macro raw materials are typically delivered the farming operation. For optimal production,
in bulk, usually in quantities of around our rations need to be formulated by a qualified
30t, to accommodate the large volume and registered animal nutritionist, as employed
requirements of feed production. by Rossgro Feeds,” explains Rossouw.
In contrast, micro-ingredients are supplied in 1t While nutritional standards and research
bulk bags or smaller 20kg bags, depending on the data provide the foundation, Cromhout
nature of the product and handling requirements. points out that the final formulation may be
The packaging format is often determined adjusted by the nutritionist based on practical
by what the feed mill requires and is experience, raw material availability and quality,

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 35

FOCUS ON ANIMAL HEALTH & NUTRITION

local production conditions, and goals. ȊȲ —›Ž’Ž—ȱœŽ•ŽŒ’˜—ȱŠ—ȱŽŸŠ•žŠ’˜—DZȱ

The technical team at Rossgro plays a critical and the technical manager will evaluate the
central role in the operations of the feed mill. quality of raw materials from different
“This is also true for most other feed suppliers and make decisions about which
manufacturers. The technical team normally additives or enzymes to include based on
consists of the technical manager, nutritionist scientific research and field performance.
or formulator, a procurement officer, and It is also important to respond to changes
a quality or laboratory manager. Their in raw material nutrient composition,
responsibilities go far beyond simply selecting which can vary due to origin, season, or
ingredients. They are directly responsible for processing. Procurement will then ensure
ensuring that the feed produced is nutritionally the products are purchased and delivered;
balanced, cost-effective, and aligned with ȊȲ˜–™•¢’—ȱ ’‘ȱ›Žž•Š’˜—œDZ the formulation
production goals,” says Cromhout. of animal feed is regulated by the Fertilizers,
“Without a competent technical team, a Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and
feed mill risks producing feed that is either Stock Remedies Act (No. 36 of 1947).
nutritionally inadequate, too expensive, or non- Cromhout says technical managers will typically
compliant, all of which can lead to poor animal ensure that feed formulations comply with local
performance, economic losses, or legal issues.” and international regulations on feed safety and
nutrient levels, as well as withdrawal
periods for certain additives.
“Quality-assurance protocols are
put in place to prevent contamination
and nutrient imbalances,” she says.
According to Liesl Breytenbach,
executive director at AFMA, the
association audits its members every
two years through an independent body
to verify code of conduct compliance.
“Only compliant members may
use the AFMA Code of Conduct
logo, issued upon passing the
audit, a mark of commitment to
feed and food safety,” she says;
ȊȲ ŽŒ‘—’ŒŠ•ȱœž™™˜›ȱŠ—ȱŒ˜—’—ž˜žœȱ
’–™›˜ŸŽ–Ž—DZȱthe technical team
works with the nutritionist and the
production staff to troubleshoot issues.
“There is also direct interaction
with clients/customers to ensure
ABOVE: According to Cromhout, a typical optimal production on farm level. It is
,WLVFULWLFDOWKDWJUDLQXVHG breakdown of such a team’s role includes: important to conduct and interpret feed trials
LQWKHPDQXIDFWXULQJRI
IHHGLVVWRUHGSURSHUO\WR ȊȲ ‘Žȱ•ŽŠœȬŒ˜œȱ˜›–ž•Š’˜—ȱ˜ȱ‹Š•Š—ŒŽȱ and performance data. The team members
DYRLGFRQWDPLQDWLRQZLWK ’ŽœDZ the nutritionist ensures that each feed support each other to ensure they stay
IXQJLDQGRWKHUSDWKRJHQV formulation provides the optimal levels of energy, updated with new research, technologies,
GETTY IMAGES protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals required and regulations,” explains Cromhout.
for the specific animal species and its production
stage, such as growth, lactation or finishing. ;/,963,6-;/,5<;90;0650:;
The formulation directly affects the In accordance with Act No. 36 of 1947 (the
animal’s health and welfare, growth Act), all registered animal feeds must be
performance, reproductive efficiency, formulated by a registered professional from
and product (meat, milk, eggs) quality. the South African Council for Natural Scientific
ȊȲ ˜œȱ˜™’–’œŠ’˜—DZȱfeed typically accounts Professions (SACNASP),” explains Breytenbach.
for 60% to 70% of the total cost in animal “AFMA fully supports this regulation, as it
production. A skilled nutritionist is able to promotes scientific accountability, nutritional
optimise formulations to minimise cost while safety, and professional oversight.”
maintaining nutritional quality and adjust Meyer confirms that a SACNASP-registered
formulas based on fluctuating raw material prices nutritionist is required to sign off on any
and availability, while using least-cost formulation formulations submitted for registration
software, and other tools to achieve cost-efficiency to the registrar of the Act and has to
and maintaining nutritional standards. specify the nutrient profile of the feed.

36 IDUPHU·V ZHHNO\ 13 JUNE 2025

“However, the nutritionist is responsible for using intake and reduces wastage, whereas pelleting
the appropriate raw materials or ingredients to of layer feed would be impractical due to the
reach these nutrient targets and has to ensure inclusion of high volumes of coarse limestone.
that it is safe for animal consumption.” Feed can be supplied in two main formats
She explains that the on-site nutritionist – bulk or bagged – depending on the size and
would be responsible for the quality infrastructure of the farming operation.
control of raw materials that are chosen
to be included in the feed mixtures. ‹ Bulk feed
“The responsibility would include quality Cromhout mentions that bulk feed is
reports for every incoming load of raw materials delivered in tankers with capacities of 12t,
and to report any non-conforming raw materials.” 24t, or 30t, and is typically used by larger
Meyer points out that once feed farms equipped with on-site feed silos.
manufacturing starts, quality is continuously “This method offers several advantages,
monitored throughout the process. including improved handling efficiency,
“Proximate analysis can be done to reduced packaging waste, lower logistics and
measure inter alia moisture, crude protein, handling costs, as well as easier inventory
fat, and fibre, and ash. Near-infrared management for both sides – the manufacturer
spectroscopy is most commonly used in as well as the farmer. Bulk delivery is often
feed mills to determine these proximates.” more cost-effective and logistically efficient
for commercial-scale operations,” she says.
FINAL PRODUCT
After the feed is manufactured, it must be ‹ Bagged feed
delivered on-farm. According to Meyer, the Bagged feed is commonly used by small to
packaging of the product will impact its shelf medium-sized farms or in markets with limited
life, thus it is necessary to choose and use storage infrastructure. Packaging sizes typically
appropriate packaging for each type of product. range from 2kg to 50kg, depending on market
requirements, distribution channels, farm size,
‘FEED MUST PROVIDE and feeding systems. This format offers greater
THE EXACT BALANCE flexibility for manual handling and small-batch
feeding, especially in rural or remote areas.
OF ENERGY, PROTEIN, Feed mills can produce feed in different physical
FIBRE, VITAMINS, forms, depending on the nutritional needs,
AND MINERALS’ feeding behaviour, and digestive capacity of the
target animal. The type of feed form selected is
“It is also important to remember that shelf life based on the species, age, and production stage
will differ between the various feed types. In of the animal, as well as the feeding system
addition, the level of exposure to moisture and used on the farm. The three most common
ultraviolet light will also have an impact. Your types are mash, pelleted, and crumb feed.
packaging choice should consider the type of feed,
scale of distribution (bags versus bulk), storage ‹ Mash feed
conditions, and target customers, for example Mash feed is finely ground, loose, and
commercial farmers versus smallholders.” unprocessed feed typically used for laying hens,
Meyer states that packaging should allow pigs, and sometimes ruminants. According to
for the appropriate labelling of the product, Cromhout, these are easy to manufacture and
and that it must be visible and applied in allow for uniform mixing of micro-ingredients.
accordance with regulations set out in the Act.
“The label should contain the following: product ‹ Pelleted feed
name; manufacturer information; V-registration Pellets are compressed, cylindrical feed particles
number; nutritional analysis, including moisture, formed through steam conditioning and
crude protein, fibre, and so on; as well as the pelleting, and used for broilers, pigs, and cattle.
batch number and expiry date,” she explains. “Pellets improve feed efficiency and
Breytenbach adds that clear, compliant intake and reduce feed wastage and
labelling, including any product warnings where selective feeding,” says Cromhout.
applicable, builds trust and ensures traceability According to Meyer, pelleting also positively
in line with AFMA’s Code of Conduct and the impacts factors like dust exposure.
Consumer Protection Act (No. 68 of 2008).
According to Meyer, the form of feed largely ‹ Crumb feed
depends on the species, nutrient density of Crumb feed comprises crushed pellets,
the diet, and consumer need. She explains resulting in smaller, coarse particles used for
that pelleting of broiler feed improves feed young animals, such as chicks and piglets.

13 JUNE 2025 IDUPHU·V ZHHNO\ 37

FOCUS ON ANIMAL HEALTH & NUTRITION

Cromhout says it is easier for young animals feed formulations meet performance targets while
to consume crumb feed, which maintains the also optimising cost and ingredient availability.
nutritional value and benefits of pelleted feed. “Feed must provide the exact balance of
energy, protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals
STANDARDS required for each species and growth stage.
Focusing on standards, Cromhout states that Variability in raw material nutrient composition
the animal feed mill industry is obliged to demands ongoing formulation adjustments and
manufacture a feed that is as homogenous as frequent laboratory analysis,” says Cromhout.
possible to ensure consistent nutrient intake
and optimal feed conversion efficiency. ‹ /VTVNLULP[`VMTP_PUN
“It is important that every animal should The feed mill production team, with the
receive all nutrients and active substances as technical manager and the quality control
prescribed in the formulation in sufficient team, must ensure homogeneity.
quantity and of correct quality daily. “The uniform distribution of all feed
“There are four fundamental aspects of components, especially micro-ingredients like
feed quality that must be carefully managed vitamins, minerals, and additives, is critical.
throughout the manufacturing process. Each The production team ensures consistent mixing
aspect involves the collaboration of specialised times, proper mixer load capacities, and well-
teams to ensure that the final product delivers maintained equipment,” explains Cromhout.
the intended nutritional and economic value.” She adds that inadequate mixing can lead to
nutrient segregation, resulting in performance
THE ROLE OF A NUTRITIONIST AT AN ANIMAL FEED MILL loss and health issues in animals.
Role Importance
Feed formulation Ensures proper balance of nutrients, species- (504(3(5+/<4(5:(-,;@
specific needs, and cost efficiency Quality control, the technical manager, and
Cost management Develops least-cost formulations without housekeeping hold primary responsibility
sacrificing animal health or performance for animal and human safety.
Quality control Ensures consistent product quality and “Feed must be free from contaminants like
safety, minimising nutritional imbalances mycotoxins, pathogens, heavy metals, and
Animal health Promotes optimal growth, health, and chemical residues. Quality-control ensures
and performance productivity while preventing deficiencies rigorous testing of raw materials and finished
Research and Explores new ingredients and innovations products. In addition, good housekeeping
development to improve animal feed practices prevent cross-contamination,
Regulatory compliance Ensures all feed meets legal and safety standards spoilage, and infestation, ensuring feed is
Sustainability Promotes the use of sustainable safe for consumption and compliant with
ingredients and practices food safety standards,” explains Cromhout.
Customer support Provides technical guidance to farmers, “High-quality feed is the result of a well-
enhancing customer relationships coordinated effort across multiple departments.
Source: Chemuniqué From sourcing and formulation to production
and quality assurance, each team plays
Cromhout points out the following a vital role in maintaining the integrity,
important aspects: safety, and performance of the feed. Only
‹ 7O`ZPJHSWYVWLY[PLZVMPUNYLKPLU[Z by taking all the aspects into account can a
The technical, procurement and production feed mill deliver a consistent, effective, and
teams at the manufacturer are normally safe product to the livestock industry.”
responsible for ensuring that products Rossgro Feeds has its own laboratory that
adhere to the necessary standards. has been put in place to ensure raw materials
“The procurement team plays a key received as well as finished products meet
role in sourcing materials that meet the necessary requirements, says Rossouw.
technical specifications and processing “Certain crops are more prone than
requirements,” she stresses. others to mycotoxin contamination; this
Physical traits like particle size, texture, and risk is managed by sending samples to
bulk density affect both processing and feed an external laboratory as required.”
intake. In addition, the proper handling, grinding, He also points out that Rossgro Feeds follows
and raw material selection ensure smooth flow, good manufacturing practices, as prescribed by
better mixing, and improved pellet quality. AFMA, to ensure that safety regulations and
the correct work procedures are followed.
‹ 5\[YPLU[JVU[LU[HUKIHSHUJL Email Marzanne Cromhout at marzanne@rossgro.
The responsible team, including nutritionists, a co.za, Tanel Meyer at tanel@chemunique.co.za,
formulator and technical manager, ensures that and Liesl Breytenbach at liesl@afma.co.za. FW

38 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

 FOCUS ON ANIMAL HEALTH & NUTRITION

A vaccine schedule
for cattle
Vaccines, like high-quality feed, are essential for the long-term health and productivity of a farmer’s herd.
Below is a vaccine schedule, developed and provided by veterinary pharmaceutical company Virbac, which
explains when cattle should be vaccinated, what they should be vaccinated against, and the relevant vaccines
available in the Virbac range to meet a farmer’s vaccination needs.
BASIC BEEF CATTLE HEALTH SCHEDULE
CALVES: birth to weaning
ACTION
WHEN/AGE
Vaccines (essential) Internal parasites External parasites Trace minerals/vitamins
Oral: OptiLumen Neo
Week one – – (especially with
diarrhoea problems)
Oral: OptiLumen Neo
Week six – – (especially with
diarrhoea problems)
Black quarter/ Roundworm and
botulism/anthrax: tapeworm:
three-in-one vaccine, or Prodose Blue or Treat as needed: Injectable: Multimin
Three months Multiclostridial/anthrax/ Virbamax First Drench, or Amipor (pour-on) Se, Cu, Cr
pneumonia: Roundworm, and/or or
combination vaccine tapeworm, and Multidip (dip and spray) Oral: OptiLumen Neo
liver fluke: and/or
Flukazole C or Prodose Blue Virbamec LA (inject)
Black quarter/botulism or and/or
Four months multiclostridial/peumonia: – Eliminate (pour-on) –
booster vaccine ------------------------------
Do not treat too early as to
Brucellosis (contagious stimulate development of
abortion) – only immunity against tick-borne
Four to eight heifer calves: diseases, except
months S19 (no later than – for brown ear –
eight months and do tick that requires
not repeat!) or immediate
RB51 treatment
BRD – ‘live’ or ‘inactivated’?
Six months see optional vaccinations – –

Roundworm:
Seven months BRD – ‘live’ or Virbamec LA or
(before/at ‘inactivated’? Eliminate Injectable: Multimin
weaning) see optional vaccines Roundworm and Se, Cu, Cr + ProVit A
liver fluke:
Flukazole C or Virbamec L

OPTIONAL VACCINATIONS
Discuss Tick-borne diseases: BRD (bovine respiratory Other viral diseases: Other: E. coli, Salmonella
inclusion, timing, Heartwater blood (< three disease): BVD/IBR/Pi3/ Rift Valley fever, lumpy skin (paratyphoid fever), pink eye
and product weeks), redwater blood BRSV plus Pasteurella/ disease, three-day stiffness
with your local (six months), anaplasmosis Mannheimia
veterinarian blood (six months)

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 39

BREED OF THE MONTH Beefmaster

Getting to know
the Beefmaster
breed standards
In this article, we
detail some of
the typical breed
standards for the
Beefmaster, as
per Beefmasters
Breeders United,
the official
Beefmaster
breeders’ society
in the US, where
the breed
was originally
developed.

Conformation The crest or hump should be moderate

and sit closer to the top of the shoulders
Cows should also exhibit clean dewlap
development.
Bulls should be long, trim, well- than to the head, with moderate dewlap Bulls and cows should have legs that
muscled, and masculine. They development. are proportionate to the animal in terms
should have a clean underline, Cows should be feminine, smooth, of length. Legs should be straight and
optimal scrotum size, outstanding and moderately muscled, blending correctly placed with adequate flex in the
musculature, and ample length. smoothly into the rest of the body. hock and clean joints.
A full muzzle, with nostrils wide and They must have a strong, functional Animals with structural defects in feet
open, and good width between the udder with good teats. Cows and legs should be strictly culled.
eyes is desirable. Ears should be slightly should have a clean jaw and throat “As a beef breed, Beefmasters should
elongated and sit level to pitched latch, and a full muzzle. Nostrils exhibit above-average yielding, as well as
down relative to head. Short-eared should be wide and open. dressing with adequate quality grades.
cattle with high ear set or extremely “Avoid extremely long and narrow Genetics producing poor carcass yields
long, droopy ears should be avoided. heads, as well as extremely small, and standard or low select quality grades
Bulls should have a medium- wide heads,” says Beefmaster.org. should be eliminated from breeding
length neck, but it should be Cows should have moderately thin programmes. Avoiding extremes in any
neat. Smooth attachment is the and angular necks, which are neat and carcass trait is critical to avoid single-
primary objective in this regard. blending smoothly into shoulders. trait selection,” says Beefmaster.org.

40 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

Fertility
Cows must be highly fertile, early maturing, Bulls should be masculine, exhibit high libido
breed early, and consistently raise a calf annually. and prepotency, and be aggressive breeders,
Longevity and stayability in the herd are highly particularly in harsh environments.
valued, meaning cows should remain productive They should have the proper sheath angle and
for many years. Calving ease is paramount. scrotal size.

Milk production
Cows must produce ample milk to support
vigorous calf growth, as milk production
is a critical factor in weaning weight.

Weight
Beefmaster calves should have moderate and
easy calving birthweights, but then exhibit
vigorous, rapid growth from birth to slaughter.
They should be heavy relative to age and
environment when compared with other cattle
breeds.
Cattle should gain well in all phases of
development. Selection focuses on optimum
(not necessarily maximum) weight with
minimum input, aiming for efficient growth.
Slower-gaining or smaller-than-average
individuals should be culled or marketed as
terminal product animals and not retained
for replacement genetics, according to
Beefmaster.org.

Hardiness
Coat texture Cattle must be able to thrive under diverse and
often challenging environmental conditions.
and colour This includes resistance to heat, drought,
insects, and common cattle diseases.
Beefmasters can be light red to dark red,
brown, dun, black, or pied (multi-coloured).
Brownish-red is common, and some may
have white mottling on their faces.
Excessive amounts of white or
Temperament
multiple colours are often discounted Beefmasters are selected for a gentle,
in commercial industries, though not intelligent, and responsive temperament.
prohibited by the breed standard itself. Docile cattle are easier and cheaper to manage,
Hair should be short, straight, and slick in sell better, feed better, and calve easier.
warmer climates, allowing for adaptability Animals displaying problematic behaviour and
to various environments. their offspring are culled, as this trait is highly
Extremely tight-hided cattle with fuzzy or heritable.
curly hair year-round are generally avoided Good maternal instincts (protecting calves)
in breeding. should not be confused with bad temperament.

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 41

BREED OF THE MONTH Beefmaster

Top five bank-breaking

Beefmasters
Over the years, some exceptional Beefmasters have broken records (and the bank!). Here, we list
the highest prices the breed has fetched on auction in South Africa.

FW ARCHIVE

R1,1 million SELLERS: Dennis and Burnie Staal, Bos

Blanco Beefmaster Stud, Kroonstad
Farming, Bronkhorstspruit
DATE: 8 July 2021
BULL: BOS 166 103 BUYER: Chris van Heerden, Gantouw PLACE: Afridome, Parys, Free State

R600 000 R550 000 R375 000

3-IN-1 COW WITH CALF: 3-IN-1 COW WITH CALF: BULL: ZCW 21 008
BOS 18 8751 BOS 20 273 SELLER: Christian le Roux, Gantouw
SELLERS: Dennis and Burnie Staal, SELLERS: Dennis and Burnie Staal, Farming, Bronkhorstspruit
Bos Blanco Beefmasters, Kroonstad Bos Blanco Beefmasters, Kroonstad BUYER: Stephan du Plessis,
BUYERS: Theo Coetzee, Majesto BUYER: Rohan Meintjies, Delta Beefmasters, Platrand
Beefmasters, Koster; and Paul van Sterkfontein Farms, Krugersdorp DATE: 11 July 2024
Vuuren, V8 Beefmasters, Polokwane DATE: 11 July 2024
DATE: 11 July 2024
PLACE: Afridome, Parys, Free State
R350 000
IN-CALF HEIFER: WC 21 012
SELLER: Wilru Campher, Loumotta
Beefmasters, Ventersdorp
BUYER: Rohan Meintjies,
Sterkfontein Farms, Krugersdorp
DATE: 11 July 2024

42 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

LIVESTOCK Poultry

Navigating the legal

landscape for emerging
poultry farmers
The production of healthy
poultry begins with a
strong foundation in
animal welfare and farm
management standards.
SUPPLIED

FAST FACTS Emerging poultry farmers face a host of legal, environmental, and practical challenges.
Even a small-scale Poultry nutritionist Dr Sipokazi Nyeleka spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel about the
poultry farmer
producing 500 complexities of starting and running a compliant and sustainable poultry enterprise.

G
to 1 000 birds
must comply
with laws like the
etting a poultry business off the legal requirements tied to scaling their businesses.
Meat Safety Act ground is a demanding exercise, “Different legal considerations apply to the
and the National especially for emerging farmers, but different scales of production. For instance, a
Environmental
Management Act. it can be a rewarding one, too. farmer who is only interested in remaining a
While the demand for poultry products subsistence farmer will not face the same legal
Farmers who want
to make chicken continues to rise, the regulatory and legal requirements as an emerging farmer who is
feed must apply for requirements governing the industry can often actively scaling their business,” she explains.
a feed production pose significant challenges for new entrants.
licence under the
Fertilizers, Farm Dr Sipokazi Nyeleka, a poultry nutritionist DAUNTING REGULATORY TERRAIN
Feeds, Agricultural and the learnership and operations manager Nyeleka adds that navigating the regulatory
Remedies
and Stock at Afrivet Training & Technical Services, has terrain can be daunting, but farmers don’t
Remedies Act. spent years working closely with emerging have to go through it alone. She encourages
Poultry farmers
poultry farmers across the country. new entrants to start at their local office
who draw water Her work involves facilitating workshops and of the Department of Agriculture.
from public training sessions focused on poultry production, “This is because government officials in the
sources must
apply for a water- disease management, and nutrition, equipping Department of Agriculture work closely with
use licence from small-scale producers with the tools they the officials in other departments who are
the Department
of Water and need to thrive in a regulated environment. linked to responsible farming, for instance,
Sanitation. According to Nyeleka, one of the many obstacles the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the
that emerging farmers face is understanding the Environment. By approaching the Department

44 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

of Agriculture, the farmer potentially saves a Again, if you’re unsure, approaching
lot of time and is assisted by knowledgeable the Department of Agriculture with
and accessible officials,” she says. your questions is the best place to start.
Nyeleka adds that for those pursuing growth, According to Nyeleka, setting up a
several legislative acts come into play. These poultry operation in a residential zone
include the Animal Diseases Act (No. 5 of involves a different set of regulations.
1984), which requires producers to be aware of “Poultry farming in areas designated
animal diseases, including zoonotic diseases for residential or mixed use [is subject
that must be reported to the state veterinarian. to] strict regulations,” she says.
Poultry producers must also be aware of Concerns like noise, odour, and the
the Meat Safety Act (No. 40 of 2000), which movement of heavy vehicles contribute
governs the production of safe meat for to the tighter regulations in these areas.
human consumption. In addition, the National
Environmental Management Act (No. 107 of 1998)
applies to all poultry operations, regardless of size.
“It is important that farming is done in a
manner that will not compromise a healthy
ecosystem. Communities must not be polluted
by the farming enterprise,” she explains.
Nyeleka adds that farmers must meet specific
legal obligations before they can start commercial
poultry operations. These include acquiring a
water-use licence, especially given the volume
of water required for poultry production.

IN EXTREME CASES, THE

STATE CAN SHUT DOWN
A NON-COMPLIANT
OPERATION ENTIRELY
Nyeleka says that emerging farmers who
want to produce their own feed must apply
for a feed production licence through the
Department of Agriculture, as regulated by the
Fertilizers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies
and Stock Remedies (No. 36 of 1947).
“Transporting the birds to an abattoir is an
integral part of a poultry operation. Farmers
need to be aware of what the requirements
are, as the transportation of birds has a direct
effect on the quality of meat,” she adds.
Even small-scale farmers must operate within
the law. “If a farmer is producing 500 to 1 000
birds, they should be mindful of the environment WASTE, WATER, AND BIOSECURITY ABOVE:
and the community around them,” says Nyeleka. Environmental compliance is a major focus Understanding feed
production laws helps
The Meat Safety Act and the National for regulators, particularly when it comes small-scale farmers ensure
Environmental Management Act still apply even to waste management and water use. they meet nutritional
if the products are sold within the community. “There are several laws that regulate the use of standards and remain
There are also laws around land use. “Zoning water in a poultry enterprise. If a poultry farm legally compliant.
SUPPLIED
laws are specific to each area,” explains requires access to water from a public resource, the
Nyeleka. “If a portion of land is designated farmer must obtain a water-use licence from the
for agricultural purposes, poultry farming Department of Water and Sanitation,” she says.
may be permitted, but specific conditions such She adds that farms must also manage
as building regulations, waste management, wastewater to prevent contamination of local
and environmental impacts apply.” water supplies. Compliance with water quality
Therefore, simply knowing land is zoned for management regulations that govern water
agriculture is not enough; farmers must research pollution and effluent discharge is mandatory.
applicable zoning laws to understand the Nyeleka says biosecurity isn’t just a
constraints and permissions tied to their location. best practice; it’s a legal requirement.

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 45

LIVESTOCK Poultry

“Biosecurity is a non-negotiable for all levels humane treatment of their birds.

of farming. Diseases from food animals “The Five Freedoms [of animal welfare]
can be catastrophic to human health. are clear and provide guidance as to how
Farmers should always strive to adhere to animals must be treated,” says Nyeleka.
strict biosecurity measures,” she adds. The Five Freedoms are:
ȊȲFreedom from hunger and thirst;
ȊȲFreedom from discomfort;
ȊȲFreedom from pain, injury, or disease;
ȊȲFreedom to express normal behaviour; and
ȊȲFreedom from fear and distress.
“Beyond legal requirements, farmers have
a moral duty to prioritise the well-being of
their birds. These animals not only provide
their livelihood but are also consumed by
the public, making their care a matter of
both ethics and responsibility,” she says.

STANDARDS FOR HOUSING,

FEEDING, AND VETERINARY CARE
Housing, nutrition, and veterinary
care standards differ depending on
the poultry production model.
“A free-range operation requires different
housing compared with an environmentally
controlled operation,” explains Nyeleka.
She warns that failure to comply can result in She adds that a feeding regimen must be
heavy penalties: “The impact of not adhering tailored to the age and purpose of the birds.
to biosecurity laws can result in fines and “Older birds, for example, cannot be fed a
even closure of the farming enterprise, starter diet intended for younger birds, because
should the Department of Agriculture or the that diet would not meet the nutritional
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the requirements of the older birds,” she explains.
Environment deem the enterprise unfit to Furthermore, when it comes to medication
produce food to be consumed by humans.” and vaccinations, knowledge is critical.
“Each production cycle has a set routine
LEGAL CONSEQUENCES of vaccinations. Farmers need to know
ABOVE: OF DISEASE OUTBREAKS which vaccination to use at which stage of
The National The stakes are even higher during production. It is equally important to know
Environmental outbreaks of diseases like highly which medication to administer for what
Management Act
applies to all pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). disease. The consultation of a professional
poultry operations, “The first consequence to consider is tied to for these aspects is crucial,” she says.
regardless of size. the fact that the farmer is responsible for the Crucially, Nyeleka says that “it is unlawful
OCTAVIA AVESCA SPANDIEL
biosecurity of their enterprise,” says Nyeleka. not to treat birds when they are sick”.
The Animal Diseases Act places a legal
obligation on farmers to prevent and control KNOWLEDGE AS A TOOL FOR COMPLIANCE
disease outbreaks. “Failure to comply While the regulatory environment for
with the regulations and control measures poultry farming in South Africa may seem
outlined in the [Animal Diseases] Act can overwhelming, Nyeleka says that with the right
lead to prosecution and fines,” she adds. knowledge and support, emerging farmers can
Negligent farmers may also face build compliant and sustainable operations.
lawsuits from neighbours affected by “Legal compliance isn’t just about ticking
air-borne diseases like HPAI. boxes, but about ensuring public health,
“Neighbouring farmers can file a lawsuit against environmental sustainability, and the long-term
the negligent farmer, especially if they have success of the farming enterprise,” she says.
evidence that is admissible in court,” she says. As poultry farming continues to attract
In extreme cases, the state can shut down new entrants seeking economic opportunity,
a non-compliant operation entirely. understanding and navigating the legal
landscape will remain a fundamental
ANIMAL WELFARE for the success of the business.
Beyond disease control, poultry Email Dr Sipokazi Nyeleka at
farmers have a duty to ensure the operationscoordinator.ats@afrivet.co.za. FW

46 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

 Vegetables CROPS

Veggie farmer proves

success is possible
on communal land
Thulani Magida is the poster child for communal farming in South Africa, demonstrating that commercial
success is possible. But his journey also highlights the challenges this segment faces, providing valuable
lessons to those questioning the slow pace of transformation. Lindi Botha reports.

V
egetable farmer Thulani Magida is production, there is nothing left to live off ABOVE:
stuck in a seemingly perpetual waltz or buy new machinery,” laments Magida. Thulani Magida says his
cabbage planter is the
danced by all communal farmers: After the initial cash injection from his best investment he has
one step forward, two steps back. pension fund, he wasn’t able to secure made, as it has increased
He started farming in 2022 in Qonce, Eastern financing for the next two years, since he his stand and yield.
Cape, on communal land that forms part of the had no land to put up as collateral. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Keiskammahoek Irrigation Scheme. Having As he is a relatively new farmer, banks wouldn’t
worked as an agricultural economist and business take a chance on him either, and applications
analyst for 14 years, he used the pension fund for government funding went unanswered.
he had built up over this time to get started. A key issue with a lack of financing is its
As he needed to purchase a tractor, boom limiting effect on yields and quality, which in
sprayer, and fertiliser spreader, there was little turn reduces income and the chance to grow the
left for inputs, so he skimped on fertiliser and business. For example, Magida was only applying
pest control. As a result, his yields were low half of the required fertiliser to his crops and
and packout rates discouraging. But through little pest control. His potato yield was 22t/ha, far
perseverance and investigating all available below the average of 50t/ha for irrigated potatoes.
resources, success is on the horizon. The potato crop also mostly consisted of smalls,
which achieve lower prices than larger potatoes.
IMPROVING YIELDS His cabbages only achieved a 35% packout.
When Magida started his farming business, Juta Nonetheless, the past season has proved FAST FACTS
Agritech, three years ago, he could only plant the value of perseverance. Magida achieved Thulani Magida
1,25ha of the 45ha he had been allotted due a potato harvest of 46t/ha, with mostly farms vegetables
on communal
to a lack of finance for inputs. Bit by bit, large and medium-sized potatoes, land in the
he increased the farmed land to reach and a cabbage packout of 85%. He Eastern Cape.
28ha last year. This year, he’ll plant believes he can achieve a 55t/ha potato He has consistently
38ha, increasing the area under crop this year by improving increased
ore Hogsback Stutterheim production
all four of his chosen crops: his pest control regime. by focusing
butternut, potatoes, cabbages, Keiskammahoek Kei Road
He has two production on nutrient
Alice management and
and pumpkins. However, Fort Hare Bisho seasons: summer and winter.
pest control.
growth without financing Qonce Berlin Cabbages, potatoes, butternut,
has been challenging. Potsdam and pumpkins are planted Economies of
scale are needed
“When you are ploughing Kid in summer, and cabbages to improve his
Peddie
all your income back Bell
again in winter. Although he profitability.
into the farm to expand khanda Hamburg has the land to plant other

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 47

CROPS Vegetables

winter crops, such as beetroot, carrots, and

onions, these require additional implements for
planting and harvesting, which means he’d need
access to financing that he just doesn’t have.

SOIL HEALTH AND FERTILISER APPLICATIONS

Over the past two years, a focus on improving
soil health and increasing fertiliser applications
has brought an improvement in his yields.
“Initially, I only did two fertiliser applications
of 2:3:4 totalling 300kg/ha. Now I apply a
total of 1t/ha of 2:3:4 over four applications
in the season,” explains Magida.
Soil analysis is done annually to determine
the level of nutrients in the soil. An agronomist
then provides a fertiliser recommendation
for the season. Magida notes that his soil is
especially low in phosphate and potassium,
requiring greater supplementation to
achieve good yields and packouts.
Correcting the pH of the soil has also been key
to improving yields. Initially, his soils had a pH of
4,5, which was too acidic and, as a result, the crops’
nutrient uptake was inhibited. By adding lime,
the pH has increased to 5. Magida aims to reach a “Once the potatoes start growing, you need
soil pH of 6 to ensure a better uptake of nutrients. to add another layer of soil at the base of the
Manure applications have proved to plant to protect the tubers from sunlight.
ABOVE RIGHT: have a positive impact on yields, too, If they get exposed to light, they go green
Magida, a vegetable and since this is a free resource he can and won’t be accepted by the market.
farmer in the Eastern obtain from the nearby village, Magida is “Initially, I had to borrow a ridger, since
Cape, was the Agricultural
Writers SA New Entrant hoping to increase these applications. I did not have my own, but this meant that
to Commercial Agriculture “But it still comes at a cost, since the it was never available when I needed it.
award recipient in 2024. manure needs to be dug out of the kraals “Since this is not an area where mechanised
and transported to the farm. Spreading it on farming is common, implements are not
the land is challenging, because I don’t have readily available. In November last year, I
a manure spreader, which means it needs finally managed to obtain financing from the
to be shovelled off the back of a bakkie. [Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture],
“This is time consuming and labour so I could purchase a ridger, which has
intensive, and it also results in an unequal improved my packouts,” he explains.
spread of manure over the fields. But it is Tweaking the irrigation system is another
worth the effort, and I think over time I will reason for Magida’s yield increases. Draglines
be able to reduce my fertiliser application were used initially and moved around the field
to 800kg/ha of 2:3:4,” he explains. manually, resulting in uneven growth. Last
Magida has also seen success as a result of year, he started using fixed overhead irrigation,
applying Afrikelp to his potatoes and cabbages. which allows him to irrigate a larger field at
It is a growth stimulant made from seaweed that once, resulting in greater uniformity in growth.
increases the size of the individual vegetables. Magida plants his cabbages at a density of
28 000 plants/ha. “At this density, you really
SELECTING THE RIGHT SEED need to feed the crop or you’ll end up with very
An important lesson he has learnt in small heads of cabbage. Afrikelp applications
increasing the profitability of his potatoes is have helped, as have spray applications of
selecting the right seed. Initially, he bought Multifeed, which provides nitrogen, phosphates,
small-sized potato seed – an 800-count and potassium, in addition to sufficient
bag – which produced small potatoes. microelements to boost the plants,” he explains.
“Commercial farmers plant 250 seed, meaning He notes that the best investment he has made in
there are 250 seed potatoes in a 25kg bag. Bigger his cabbages has been buying a planter. This has
seed potatoes produce bigger potatoes, which increased his stand, which has increased his yield.
means the income per hectare is more,” he says. Packouts, however, remained a challenge until
To increase the packout and reduce rejects in his he implemented a pest control programme.
potato crop, Magida has had to invest in a ridger. Diamondback moth and snails caused damage

48 IDUPHU·V ZHHNO\ 13 JUNE 2025

to the heads, rendering them unmarketable. A an income from 100ha, servicing the tractor
pest control programme involving insecticides would not cripple my cash flow.
and snail bait has proved to be effective. “So, one really does need economies of
Previously, Magida farmed pigs to assist scale to move forward and grow,” he adds.
with cash flow, especially in winter when While Magida has seen much improvement
there was little income from the crops. in his potato crop in terms of yield, size,
However, since the pigs ended up being sold and quality, a missing piece of the puzzle
before they reached their ideal weight, the venture is still inhibiting further success: an
proved to be more costly than profitable. automated washing and packing facility.
“Raising pigs requires feed and labour, and
to get a return on investment, they need to be ‘THIS IS NOT AN AREA
sold at their heaviest. But I found that I kept
having to sell them too early to pay salaries,
WHERE MECHANISED
and since [the pigs] were underweight, the prices FARMING IS COMMON,
I obtained for them weren’t worth the effort. SO IMPLEMENTS ARE
“It is, however, a division I would like to get
up and running again once I have the finance
NOT READILY AVAILABLE’
to erect a proper piggery,” he explains. The Keiskammahoek Irrigation Scheme
once had such a facility, but it has been in a
ECONOMIES OF SCALE state of disrepair for many years. Without
Getting inputs to his farm is a costly it, potatoes can’t be properly washed,
exercise for Magida, and not just which reduces their marketability.
because of the poor state of the roads. Since potatoes now have to be hand-
Since he farms in an area where large-scale sorted and graded, the greater margin of
commercial farmers are few and far between, error results in fewer potatoes being sold
inputs aren’t readily available on his doorstep. And as medium or large, reducing income.
because his own ability to buy inputs is limited, Rotten potatoes also end up being packed
he can only purchase them in small quantities. more frequently, which then increases the rate
“This pushes up the unit cost tremendously, as at which the other potatoes in the bag rot.
transport fees are the same for a full truckload “This is a big problem, because I just can’t
of potato seed or fertiliser as for half a load. get ahead. I do everything I can to improve BELOW:
Magida has boosted the
“Servicing my tractor costs the same whether my potato crop, then it falls short at the quality of his potatoes since
I’m planting 10ha or 100ha. But if I was drawing packing process,” explains Magida. buying a ridging machine.

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 49

CROPS Vegetables

While government has promised to fix farmers in the area have access to skilled labour.
the facility, help has not been forthcoming. He also offers training for other farmers and
Magida explains that the investment to erect is investigating the possibility of erecting
his own facility is substantial: “It’s a chicken- a processing facility to add value to the
and-egg situation; I can’t afford a washer and vegetables produced in the scheme.
grader if I don’t increase the size of my crop and “There isn’t a lot of information
the profit per hectare. But I can’t increase yield available for farmers looking to improve
and profit if I don’t have a washer and grader.” production. We have pamphlets that just
regurgitate the same old information.
COMMUNAL OPPORTUNITY If we can elevate the farmers and help them
While Magida has achieved much success expand, we will have a better chance at convincing
on his own, he believes that the next step for government that erecting washing and grading
him and his community will be to see the facilities will be worthwhile,” he says.
irrigation scheme reach its full potential. In 2024, Magida founded Rural Fresh, a
“There are over 9 000ha in this scheme, of company that will provide value-added services
which only 46% is being cultivated. The soils to increase the income farmers receive from the
are fertile, there is irrigation infrastructure, vegetables. This forms part of his diversified
ample water, and available labour. There marketing strategy to sell produce to the fresh
is a massive opportunity to expand produce market, retailers and food companies.
production and reach a level of large scale Around 9% of Magida’s potatoes, 56% of his
commercial success,” he explains. cabbages, 76% of his butternut, and 100% of
his pumpkins are sold
through the municipal
fresh produce market.
“The fresh produce
market is the cornerstone
of my marketing strategy,
because this is where all
the buyers come together.
They are able to absorb large
volumes at once, unlike local
retailers, who only want
small amounts to ensure
that produce does not rot
on their shelves,” he says.
Magida was recently
awarded a contract to
grow potatoes for the
fast-food chain Steers.
He is hopeful that once
he proves his worth, this
contract will be expanded,
and other food processors
will come on board, too.
The challenges that
communal farmers face
ABOVE: Magida employs 11 permanent workers are all too familiar for Magida. Making long-
Focusing on pest control on his farm, supplemented by 102 casuals term decisions is difficult, since he has no
and increasing fertiliser
has boosted Magida‘s during the harvest periods. security of tenure, and staying on the right side
cabbage yields. “There aren’t many job opportunities of local politics adds an additional burden.
in this area, so the employment I have With unemployment rife in the area,
been able to provide is significant. theft is also a big challenge, but Magida
“Imagine if the full potential of the irrigation maintains that farming on communal
scheme was reached, and all the farmers land can be done successfully.
were able to employ more people,” he adds. “Cash flow is the biggest constraint, so focusing
Magida also provides in-service training to on this aspect is the way to success. Helping
agriculture students from nearby colleges. This the other farmers grow and achieve success has
means students will be able to enter the workforce multiple benefits: it creates economies of scale and
after they have graduated, since they already buying power, and it reduces theft,” he adds.
have experience. This is a vital step in ensuring Email Thulani Magida at info@jutaagritech.co.za. FW

50 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

 VEGETABLE PRODUCTION

Reduce the risk of viruses

getting into your crop
There is no way to eliminate viruses from plants once they’re infected, and pointed out the source of the
so it is essential to do everything possible to prevent viruses from farmer’s virus problem to him.
getting into the crop in the first place, writes Bill Kerr. Again, there were some healthy
malva weeds, so the farmer could
not attribute the symptoms to
some physiological condition.
From then on, he would spray the
drainage ditch with weedkiller, and
that was the end of his virus problem.

SPRAY THE LAND VERGES

The lush new weed growth after
winter is very attractive to aphids,
allowing viruses to migrate from
the weeds into the crops.
Farmers start a new season full
of confidence and expectations,
often oblivious to the threat right
on their doorstep, so to speak.
To prevent viruses from infecting
susceptible crops, it is worthwhile to
spray the land verges that have weeds
with a broadleaf herbicide or a total
herbicide like glyphosate or paraquat.

WEEDS ARE USUALLY

AN OVERLOOKED
RESERVOIR FOR THE
The dwarf mallow plant in the foreground shows signs of viral infection. BILL KERR INTRODUCTION OF
VIRUSES INTO CROPS
V
iruses enter a crop through When I visited the client, I walked
various vectors, including into the weedy area adjacent to On occasion, viruses are introduced
aphids, whiteflies, and a railway line and inspected the into a crop by aphids that have
thrips. Once a virus is in a crop, it is plants. I found a number of weeds travelled from a distant infected
difficult to stop it from spreading. showing clear virus symptoms. crop, or from weeds that had
Clearly, it is better to prevent viruses I collected these, along with healthy randomly sprung up on the land.
from infecting a crop in the first place. weeds of the same species, to show Infection could also come from
Vectors infected with viruses the client and the seedling grower the an aphid species that does not
picked them up from infected plants, source of the viruses on the farm. typically forage on that specific crop.
which aren’t necessarily commercial A large lettuce land was right near the Aphids probe various plants until
crops. Many weeds are susceptible area where I found the infected weeds. they find a crop to their liking.
to viruses, and they are usually an While they survey in this manner,
overlooked reservoir for the initial INFECTED BELL PEPPERS they are able to introduce a virus and
introduction of viruses into crops. I know a farmer who planted a 1ha then move on, leaving the farmer
The owner of a seedling nursery Haygrove tunnel to bell peppers wondering where the virus came from
once asked me to investigate a every year and always struggled – especially with no aphids present.
complaint from one of his biggest with spotted wilt in his crop. Infected plants need to be
clients, who accused him of delivering Alongside the pepper tunnel was removed to prevent the virus
lettuce plants infected with spotted a drainage ditch with a number of from spreading to other plants.
wilt and lettuce mosaic virus. weed species. While examining the Bill Kerr is a vegetable specialist and breeder.
The seedling grower and I knew his weeds, I found dwarf mallow weeds Email him at farmersweekly@caxton.co.za.
nursery was completely virus-free. (Malva neglecta) with virus symptoms, Subject line: Vegetable production. FW

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 51

DIGGING IN

What’s in WANDERING DUDE/PURPLE HEART

An evergreen perennial originating
in north-eastern Mexico, this low-

a name?
From living stones to wandering
growing trailing plant (Tradescantia
pallida) is unmistakable.
Called ‘wandering dude’ by some
nurseries, although better known as
dudes, Linda Piegl looks at purple heart, it has striking dark-purple
strangely named plants and how foliage and tiny pink flowers that appear
to grow them in your garden. from midsummer. Its colour makes
it a showy addition to any garden.

T
here’s no doubt that the people Growing tips: this hardy plant
behind plant names are a needs very little care; just well-drained
wildly creative bunch. soil and occasional watering once
From the weird to the wonderful, established, as it’s drought-tolerant.
common plant names capture the For full colour development, plant it in
imaginations of gardeners around full sun. It can also grow in partial shade,
the world and inspire them to grow where the foliage deepens in colour.
all sorts of oddball specimens. Note: purple heart can be
In South Africa, we’re no different, toxic to animals if ingested.
proudly showing off our ‘poor
man’s orchids’ and ‘bird of paradise’ FUZZY BEAR PAW
flowers to our braai guests. The corpse flower is so named for reeking of The fuzzy bear paw (Cotyledon
If you’re thinking of adding a quirky death and decay. PHOTOS: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS tomentosa) is a compact, proudly South
touch to your garden, what follows are African succulent that boasts small,
a few examples and how to grow them. oddity can be grown as a pot plant from fuzzy, fleshy leaves with serrated tips
seed. Keep it in bright, indirect light, resembling bear paws and claws.
MICKEY MOUSE BUSH maintain a warm environment (24°C It produces tubular flowers
This attractive and hardy Southern to 32°C), water whenever the top layer in spring and summer, ranging
African bush displays profuse, of soil feels dry, and repot as it grows. from yellow and orange to red,
bright-yellow flowers in spring. If you follow these guidelines and don’t and tends to be slow-growing.
Its playful common name comes mind waiting up to 10 years
from the fruit – shiny black berries for a flower, only to move
dangling beneath red sepals are said it outside before you choke
to resemble Mickey Mouse’s face. The on the stench, you’ll have
flowers attract bees and butterflies a guaranteed conversation
to your gaerden, while many bird starter in your home.
species feast on the berries.
Growing tips: the Mickey Mouse LIVING STONES
bush (Ochna serrulata) grows best in Cute, colourful, and quirky,
full sun and frost-free regions but can living stones (Lithops spp.)
manage semi-shade and light frost. are native to South Africa
The soil should be well-composted and Namibia. Resembling
and mulched, and the plant painted pebbles, these
should be watered regularly. succulents grow flush
with the ground in many
CORPSE FLOWER different habitats, including
Part of the arum family, the massive shale and limestone. Wandering dude, better known as purple heart, has
corpse flower (Amorphophallus titanum) They are drought- striking dark-purple foliage and tiny pink flowers.
from the jungles of Sumatra has tolerant plants that retain
many weird attributes that are well- moisture in their fleshy leaves. Growing tips: plant in well-drained
aligned with its bizarre appearance. Growing tips: living stones like well- soil, in warm conditions, and
Named for its foul-smelling flowers, drained sandy soil, full sun, and high water only when the soil is dry,
thankfully a decade or more passes temperatures. Water them only when as it’s highly drought-tolerant.
between stints of blooming, and the the soil is completely dry, and when Fuzzy bear paws are ideal for
blooms last no more than 48 hours. they’re dormant, don’t water them at all. rockeries but also thrive in pots.
The odour has a purpose, though, These unique succulents can also Note: they can be toxic to
attracting flies to pollinate the flower. be grown indoors, provided they are animals if ingested.
Growing tips: recommended for consistently getting bright light and good Email Farmer’s Weekly at farmersweekly@
experienced and patient gardeners, this airflow in order to continue thriving. caxton.co.za. Subject line: Gardening. FW

52 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

 HORSE TALK

Fusarium fungi on harvested

maize can be lethal to horses
High rainfall can lead to bumper maize crops, but it can also cause rapid bales are removed from the land so
growth of mycotoxins, which are harmful to broodmares, says Dr Mac. ploughing and planting can start.
Responsible farmers don’t deliberately
include contaminated maize in bales
they sell as feed. Horse breeders
and owners are a good market, so
contaminated bales accidently included
in the purchase can be returned.

QUALITY-CHECKED BALES
Experienced horse owners will usually
purchase a single bale and open it up to
look for the purplish strands of fusarium
in the centre before purchasing more.
Fusarium poisoning also becomes
less of a problem when a responsible
farmer has diversified their market into
the showing or racehorse industry.
Bales are likely to be quality-
checked, as the price per kilogram is
far higher than that paid by feedlots,
because the profit margin is higher.
Competition horses are worth a great
deal more than feedlot cattle.
Baling wire or string is removed
mechanically, and then the
Maize stalks left on a harvested field after heavy rainfall create ideal conditions for toxic harvested maize stalks and stems
fusarium fungi to grow, posing a hidden danger to horses grazing there. WIKIMEDIA COMMONS are pounded and mixed into feed.

H
eavy rainfall over the past few rapidly in maize residues on harvested
months has resulted in wet, muddy fields, especially in hot, wet weather. POISONING IS
conditions that are favourable The fungal strands form pink or LESS OF A PROBLEM
to the development of fungal toxins,
which may be deadly to horses.
purplish streaks on cobs, kernels, stalks,
and leaves of mature or harvested
WHEN A FARMER
Many horse breeders and owners move maize, particularly if baling is delayed HAS DIVERSIFIED
their riding horses and broodmares until the muddy soil dries. Only when THEIR MARKET
onto harvested maize lands, not only the soil is less soggy will tractors be
because the veld and planted pastures sent in to bale the harvested maize. Horse feed is tested routinely,
have been grazed to their roots, but Wet stalks and leaves in the centres of but previous outbreaks of equine
also because farmers often offer ‘free the round or square bales may remain leuko-encephalomalacia have been
grazing’ when they clear their lands for damp enough to ensure rapid growth recorded. Signs include blindness,
planting. This is often seen in KwaZulu- of fungi, particularly once the weather circling, staggering and choking.
Natal and the Eastern Cape, where starts heating up in September. Affected horses die suddenly or
thoroughbred broodmares are moved show chronic symptoms like liver
onto harvested maize lands in May. THREE TYPES OF FUMONSINS failure and loss of condition.
This year, rains have soaked the land, There are three types of fumonsins: ȊȲSource: Dutton, MF. 1996. ‘Fumonisins,
and the high carbohydrate content of FB1, FB2 and FB3. These toxins are more mycotoxins of increasing importance: their
maize cobs will have increased the dangerous to horses, pigs, and humans, nature and their effects’. Pharmacology
possibility of certain fungal moulds as they are partially denatured in the & Therapeutics. bit.ly/3FAOOaR
that are highly toxic to horses. rumens of cattle, sheep, and goats Dr Mac is an academic, a practising
Fumonsins are the generic name for As the fungi tend to multiply in the equine veterinarian and a stud owner.
the toxins produced by the fungus damp centre of harvested bales, their Email her at farmersweekly@caxton.co.za.
Fusarium verticillioides, which grows growth may not be noticed when the Subject line: Horses. FW

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 53

MOTORING

Converting the Ford Ranger

into a proper workhorse
When bakkies are used for
commercial purposes, it’s not
always a case of one size fits all.
The Citizen’s Mark Jones looks
at the tailor-made conversion
solutions Ford offers for its range.

W
e mostly get to drive the
luxury versions of Ford
Ranger Double Cabs.
These are no doubt great bakkies, but
they aren’t meant for the daily grind
workhorses are bred for. So, when a true-
blue single-cab bakkie in an XL guise
with dropside conversion was offered
to us, we jumped at the opportunity.
To give the experience an authentic
feel, we headed off to Michael da Serra’s The Ford Ranger XL Single Cab dropside‘s flat loadbed can be accessed from three sides. MARK JONES
Village Lawns & Grassland out on the
East Rand to get our bakkie working by outdoor enthusiasts transporting
loading hay for their daily deliveries. motorbikes or quads, and courier services
This is a proper working farm and handling larger items. The drop side
the real-world convenience of the tray allows forklift access to any side of
drop sides fitted to our Ranger made the bakkie with all three sides down.
a major difference to the task at hand, The tray design increases the load
while the drive and feel of the single- footprint by removing the wheel arches, to their exact conversion requirements
turbo diesel engine and six-speed and this improvement allows a single- along with detailed consultation and
automatic gearbox impressed the staff. cab Ranger to take up to two pallets. The quotation process. The modifications
A Ranger, even in entry-level XL drop sides are also easily removable, can be financed through the Ford
guise, comes with a decent level of specs providing a completely flat deck option. dealership and will not affect the original
that includes the likes of aircon, full This conversion is part of the Blue four-year/120 000km factory warranty
infotainment system with handsfree Oval’s Ford Pro Convertor (FPC), which on all non-modified components.
calling and Apple CarPlay, and Android offers vehicle conversion services
Auto connectivity. Add to that a full tailored for the commercial market. PEACE OF MIND
electronic stability control programme The FPC programme replaces the Lead times typically range from four
for added safety of the driver and previous Qualified Vehicle Modifiers to six weeks but can vary based on
passenger when hauling goods. initiative with a refreshed brand aligned the complexity and nature of the
to the global Ford Pro platform. individual conversion project.
JACK OF ALL TRADES “Our comprehensive approval and
The drop side is ideal for small business WIDE RANGE OF OPTIONS support framework ensures that
owners such as garden services, The FPC programme empowers Ford- each conversion is done to exacting
furniture removals, general contractors, approved converters to carry out standards without compromising
modifications on selected Ranger, vehicle functionality, safety, or
VEHICLE FAST FACTS Everest and Transit product lines warranty, whether it’s a mobile clinic,
to meet a broad spectrum of emergency vehicle, or specialised
Engine: 2ℓ single turbo-diesel commercial and industrial needs. mining support truck,” says Tracey
Transmission: Six-speed automatic Apart from a dropside bakkie, Delate, general manager of direct
Power: 125kW at 3 500rpm Ford vehicles can be converted sales operations, Ford South Africa.
Torque: 405Nm at 1 750rpm to 2 500rpm into ambulances, emergency “Ford Pro Convertor conversions
Fuel consumption (claimed): 7,5ℓ/100km response vehicles, armoured provide peace of mind and
Licensing mass: 1 939kg protection cars, mining, and reliable operation tailored to the
Towing capacity: 3 500kg construction support vehicles. customers’ unique requirements.”
Payload: 1 000kg A Ford dealership will direct Email farmersweekly@caxton.co.za.
customers to the FPC that can tailor Subject line: Motoring. FW

54 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

 Farmer’s Feasts LIFESTYLE

Avo boats with scrambled

eggs and baked beans
Quick and easy to whip up, this hearty breakfast is simple, satisfying, and tasty.
Recipe and photo: South African Avocado Growers’ Association.

SERVES TWO

Avocado or olive oil, for frying ȊȲȱ ŽŠȱŠȱœ™•Šœ‘ȱ˜ȱ‘Žȱ˜’•ȱ’—ȱŠȱ›¢’—ȱ™Š—ȱ˜—ȱŠȱ–Ž’ž–Ȭ•˜ ȱ‘ŽŠǯȱ‘’œ”ȱ˜Ž‘Ž›ȱ‘Žȱ

2 eggs Žœȱ ’‘ȱŠȱ™’—Œ‘ȱ˜ȱœŠ•ǰȱŠ—ȱŠȱ‘Ž–ȱ˜ȱ‘Žȱ™Š—ǯȱŒ›Š™Žȱ‘ŽȱŽœȱŠŒ›˜œœȱ‘Žȱ™Š—ȱ
Salt and pepper ˜›ȱŠ‹˜žȱ‘›ŽŽȱ–’—žŽœȱ˜›ȱž—’•ȱœ˜ȱŒž›œȱ‘ŠŸŽȱ˜›–ŽǯȱŽ–˜ŸŽȱ›˜–ȱ‘Žȱ‘ŽŠǯ
1 avocado, halved, stoned, and peeled ȊȲȱŽŠœ˜—ȱ‘ŽȱŠŸ˜ŒŠ˜ȱ‘Š•ŸŽœȱ ’‘ȱœŠ•ȱŠ—ȱ™Ž™™Ž›ǯȱ’••ȱ‘Ž’›ȱ
205g (½ a 410g) tin baked beans ŒŠŸ’’Žœȱ ’‘ȱ‘ŽȱœŒ›Š–‹•ŽȱŽœȱŠ—ȱ‹Š”Žȱ‹ŽŠ—œǯȱ Š›—’œ‘ȱ
A few oregano leaves (optional) ’‘ȱ˜›ŽŠ—˜ȱǻ’ȱžœ’—ǼȱŠ—ȱœŽ›ŸŽȱ’––Ž’ŠŽ•¢ǯ

13 JUNE 2025 IDUPHU·V ZHHNO\ 55

LIFESTYLE Crossword

Crossword 609
ACROSS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
1. Breed of ornamental chicken with long
tail feathers, developed in Germany (8)
5. The ________ Sussex is a
10 11 12
breed of chicken with flecked
plumage and a good tolerance 13
of temperature variations (8)
10. One from Kampala? (7) 14 15
12. Indonesian island on which
a rare breed of chicken with 16 17 18

black plumage originated (7)

19 20 21 22 23
13. Freshwater fish (Salmo trutta)
popular with anglers (5) 24
14. Main source of energy in the
body, also called blood sugar (7) 25 26
15. Underground lateral stem sending
out roots and leafy shoots (7) 27 28 29

16. Covered in a layer of fine

30 31 32 33 34 35
particles of solid matter (5)
19. Gem ______ is a small, round 36 37 38
gourd with dark-green skin (6)
22. Plant with prickly flowers whose 39 40
dried heads with their hooked bracts
41
are used to raise a nap on cloth (6)
24. Non-professional (7)
42 43
25. An indigenous pastoralist people
of south-western Africa (4)
26. Impulse (4)
28. Motives (7) 44 45
30. Noon (6)
33. Female sibling (6)
36. Domain or kingdom (5)
39. Remainder; dregs (7) feathers of a male duck (5,3) 38. Breakfast dish of rolled
40. Yet to be sampled or tested (7) 11. Fruit-clusters of a mulberry oats, nuts and fruit (6)
41. Tall cereal grass (Zea mays) (5) family plant (Humulus lupulus)
42. Dizziness (7) used for flavouring beer (4)
43. Hardy, disease-resistant breed 17. Oblivious (7)
of cattle developed in the 18. Leaf of three lobes or leaflets (7)
Caribbean and introduced into 20. Plant louse (5)
South Africa in 2001 (7) 21. A _____ caterpillar is a larva of a moth MYSTERY WORD
44. Contrived; drafted (8) or butterfly covered in filaments (5) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
45. Weapons discharged by explosion (8) 22. Framed structure for supporting
a pitched roof (5)
DOWN 23. Aberdeen _____ is a Scottish
1. Least advanced in age (8) breed of beef cattle (5) CROSSWORD 604: 9 MAY 2025

2. ______ Natal province (7) 27. Of land, made more valuable (8) ACROSS: 1. Molasses; 5. Communal; 9. Oyster;
3. Containing water (chemistry) (7) 29. Flat iron plates heated from 10. Replanting; 11. Burglary; 14. Rear;
17. Issue; 18. Francolin; 19. Agent; 20. Grist;
4. Flavoured with a strong, fresh- beneath for cooking (8) 22. Strains; 23. Basis; 25. Sinew; 27. Precision;
smelling herb of the Mentha genus (6) 31. Regions of very little or no rainfall (7) 28. Alpha; 30. Ruff; 32. Seagrass; 34. Yellowtail;
35. Social; 36. Excesses; 37. Duckweed.
6. The crust of pies and tarts (6) 32. Causing eggs to rot (7)
7. A _______ harvester will 34. Strained; concentrated (7) DOWN: 1. Mbombela; 2. Lustreless;
gather and thresh a crop (7) 35. Tourist (7) 3. Syria; 4. Stray; 5. Caper; 6. Manuring;
7. Neighs; 8. Ligament; 12. Loft; 13. Roast beef;
8. Ointments and creams for the skin (7) 36. Far off; isolated (6) 15. Eglantine; 16. Scrapie; 21. Innovative;
9. Angling lure that is dressed with 37. Of the same kind (4) 23. Blantyre; 24. Sparrows; 25. Snag; 26. Wrestled;
29. Public; 31. Foals; 32. Salad; 33. Assoc.

MYSTERY WORD: Greenery

56 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

 Hillbilly Homes LIFESTYLE

Adding aesthetic character with thatch

Dear Jonno, Dear Oscar,

I’ve seen so many of your designs Thank you for the original plan of
in Farmer’s Weekly, and now I find your house that you sent to me.
myself needing your help, too. With the smaller-sized home,
I have attached the original you have already built a normal
plan of my house, completed 45° pitched roof over the walls, and
a few years ago. With my honestly, that would be a pretty
children getting older, I’m now tight squeeze for two more rooms.
discovering that I need more I have designed the home with gable
rooms for my growing family. ends on two sides, featuring a thatched
I want to remove the existing roof pitched at 75°, along with a
roof and replace it with a thatched lower roof section pitched at 30° – all
one that will accommodate achieved with minimal additional cost.
two extra bedrooms. This design not only gives the
Is this possible with the existing roof aesthetic character but will
wall thickness and current also significantly reduce thatching
foundations, and is it cheaper cost, while remaining compliant
than building sideways? with local authority by-laws.
Please share your experience The roof assembly is shown in
and assist me with advice, the cross section A-A. A three-
as well as the best and bedroom house of about 90m²
cheapest way forward. is what so many people desire.
Kind regards, Kind regards,
Oscar Jonno FW
Jonno Smith is a registered architect. Email hillbillyhomes1@gmail.com or visit hillbillyhomes.co.za.
Please provide details of the proposed development.

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 57

LIFESTYLE The Hitching Post

I am a 71-year-old widow from a little

coastal village. I am fit and healthy – I
love walking, doing yoga and aerobics.
My hobbies are art, music, cooking,
and travelling. I also enjoy dining out
and having a good glass of wine.
THE Any gentlemen with the same
interests can contact me. Photographs

HITCHING of yourselves will be most welcome.

BRUNETTE

POST I’m a 60-year-old white lady who enjoys

camping and the outdoors, and loves
animals and watching sport. I’m also
a Christian and I don’t smoke.
I am looking for a white, Christian man
aged 60 and above who is looking for a
long-term relationship and likes dogs.
ALL YOURS, 9480

I’m a down-to-earth, 57-year-old and socialising, and I’m looking for

woman and former farmer, seeking someone with similar interests.
a single, white gentleman farmer LADY EASTERN CAPE
in his 50s or 60s in the Emalahleni
area. He must cherish the outdoors, I’m a widow in my sixties, and I seek a
fishing, gardening, music, genuine, kind-hearted and trustworthy
and Yahuah, our Elohim. gentleman between the ages of 68 and 80.
HOW TO PLACE A POST: The service is free,
I’m large, fit, healthy, and a passionate LOVE HONESTY confidential and open to those over 18. Posts or
cook. Life has shown me sorrow, but replies cannot be written on behalf of someone
else, and you must supply a pseudonym. Posts
I long for companionship. A true I am a 43-year-old black Christian female must not exceed 50 words and your address must
Sagittarius, I embrace nature and life. from Eswatini. I am a jill of most trades, be legible. Sign with your name and surname. Send
SAGITTARIUS loyal, loving, and compassionate, and your post to Hitching Post, PO Box 1797, Pinegowrie
2123 or email hitchingpost@caxton.co.za.
I love farm life. I do not smoke or drink.
I’m a respectable lady of 72-years- I seek a Christian male of sober habits HOW TO REPLY TO A POST: Send a response
in a sealed, SA-stamped envelope and write the
old and I’m looking for an equally who is 45 years or older. I’m looking pseudonym of the person to whom it should be
respectable gentleman friend between forward to hearing from you. sent on the front cover in pen. Place this into
a second SA-stamped envelope and send it to
the ages of 72 and 80. I am a homely FARM GIRL SZ Hitching Post, PO Box 1797, Pinegowrie 2123, or
person who loves gardening, reading, email hitchingpost@caxton.co.za.

On the Edge

Melatonin extends shelf life of fresh produce

R
esearchers from MIT in the US microneedles to inject melatonin directly to extend the shelf life of a fresh-
and the Singapore-MIT Alliance into bok choy, a leafy vegetable that cut crop,” says Benedetto Marelli,
for Research and Technology spoils quickly. Melatonin is a natural senior author of the study.
have found a new way to extend the hormone in many plants that helps “The dose of melatonin we’re delivering
shelf life of fresh produce after harvest. them regulate growth and ageing. is so low that it’s fully metabolised by
This is a crucial development, The needles gently pierce the plant’s the crops, so it would not significantly
because over 30% of the world’s food – skin without damaging it, delivering increase the amount of melatonin
enough to feed more than one billion a precise dose of melatonin. normally present in the food; we would
people – is wasted after harvest. In the study, the bok choy treated not ingest more melatonin than usual.”
Refrigeration is the main way to this way stayed fresh four days longer While the researchers currently apply
keep food fresh, but many regions, at room temperature, and up to 10 days the patches by hand, they hope to
especially in Africa and Asia, lack longer when refrigerated, compared with develop machines or drones to do this
the energy or infrastructure for it. the untreated bok choy in the control. on farms in the future. – Staff reporter
To solve this issue, the researchers “This is the first time that we’ve This article was first published by
used patches of biodegradable silk been able to apply these microneedles ScienceDaily. Visit bit.ly/4dzxe3M.

58 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

 Books LIFESTYLE

Stories of beer, beasts, and self-motivation

This week, Patricia McCracken reviews a broad range of books, predominantly non-fiction, which all seem to
have a common thread: motivational tales of self-discovery, expression, and regrowth.

Of Man and Beast by What You’re Made For Air by John Boyne
Willie Labuschagne (Tracey by George Raveling & (Doubleday, R355)
McDonald Publishers, R360) Ryan Holiday (Profile, R475) Aaron and his 14-year-old
Labuschagne is something of Offering his insights, son Emmet are flying super
a legend in South Africa, up successes, and failures, long-hauls, from Sydney
there with the likes of Nelson Raveling is a US sports to Dublin, to see Emmet’s
Mandela and Chris Barnard. icon, but less known in mother, Rebecca, on an island
For years he was in charge South Africa, since his on the Irish west coast.
of the Johannesburg Zoo, and background is in basketball. But Emmet’s refusing
later the National Zoological to be bought off by the
Gardens in Pretoria. business-class flight and,
Long before the days after an uneasy first flight,
of biodiversity and red- he suddenly demands to
list species, Labuschagne stay in Dubai, or fly home.
was on the side of the
animals, fighting for their
preservation, building up an
World of Guinness by extraordinary collection, and
Rory Guinness (Scala, R445) – perhaps more dangerous
Rory Guinness is indeed a than his animal pals
member of the internationally inside cages – dealing with
renowned brewing family. politicians and the politics
The last Guinness ship of animal conservation.
was named after his
mother, Miranda, but Rory
reports that she was stung
by being referred to as ‘a
bulk liquid beer carrier’. Raveling’s interest in strategy
Founder Arthur Guinness led him into coaching, taking
quickly made the family the US to Olympic gold in
fortune after shrewdly 1984 and landing him in the
using his £100 legacy from Basketball Hall of Fame.
an archbishop in 1749 to His coaching had a strong
buy a 9 000-year lease on element of leadership and Despite the comfort and
a broken-down brewery. mentorship so, despite the in-flight entertainment, both
About 50 years later, generation gap, he and have had too much time
Guinness had an established philosophiser Ryan ‘Stoic’ to think about what they
export market and was Holiday clicked immediately suspect the other is keeping
even being shipped to when they met in 2015. quiet, and ponder the whole
sub-Saharan Africa. Raveling lives by staying messed-up family dynamic.
In the 1960s, Nigeria became in touch with the wisdom Eventually, Emmet gets
the first African country This second memoir volume of others in libraries and on the connecting flight,
to get a Guinness brewery. is a pleasant, eclectic bookshops, even at the and even arranges a little
Today, Africa is Guinness’s hotchpotch of stories. And advanced age of 83. celebration for his father’s
largest market globally. here are some endearing What will resonate with 40th birthday. But it’s a bit
Rory engagingly shares tales, such as the one about many South Africans is his like a thunderstorm circling
the brewery’s growth, the ageing Asian elephant rise from hardship – his away, returning to unleash
technological advances, Peggy who, when three baby father died at 49, his mother itself with renewed vigour.
and family honours. elephants arrived at the was institutionalised, and he Simply and sharply written,
At just 96 pages, the book Pretoria zoo, immediately was raised in poverty by his with prose that often cuts like
won’t distract you long from took control and care of them. grandmother – before joining a knife, this book dramatises
your pint, making it quite The book also recounts the civil-rights movement and self-expression and regrowth.
pricey for something that’s Labuschagne’s exciting forging a new path through Patricia McCracken is a features
essentially brand marketing. international travels. talent and determination. and investigative journalist. FW

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 59

LIFESTYLE Travel

A walk back
in time to the
whaling days
of The Bluff
A tour to the abandoned Old
Whaling Station, now a world
heritage site, brought up
memories of a regrettable bygone
industry, writes Yvonne Fontyn.

T
he tour to the derelict Old
Whaling Station in The Bluff,
KwaZulu-Natal, is one of the
most popular offered by Durban
Walking Tours (DWT), even though,
thankfully, whaling was outlawed
in South Africa in the 1970s.
Clearly, this relic of a now abandoned
industry holds a strange fascination.
You have to book early to get in,
our tour leader, Ruth Hagen, told me
when I went in November 2024.
Like many other DWT tours, this
particular one cannot be conducted
every month, as permission for every
outing must be obtained from the
South African National Defence
Force, which owns the land.
In October 2019, the World Cetacean study at university,” explains Hagen. The walking tour begins with a meet-up
Alliance announced that The Bluff had It was one of the first whaling at Maha Café at 5 Mahatma Gandhi
become the world’s first certified whale stations to be established. Road on the Point Waterfront, with
heritage site. Announcing upcoming In his book on the whaling dishes like seared hand-cut carpaccio
tours to The Bluff whaling station, company, titled A Whale of a Time, and pulled-pork tacos on the menu.
DWT says in its newsletter that, during former general manager Peter Froude The tour left at 7.30am, but a word of
its years of operation, it was one of the notes that in 1952, a gunner earned advice: get there with at least 10 minutes
largest land-based whaling stations £25 000 (about R15 million today!) to spare, as you need time for orientation.
in the world. Established in 1907, it for three months’ work, with senior The first stop is a 30-minute slog
continued operations until 1975. personnel on the factory ship being through the harbour entrance
“At its peak in 1965, it processed over accommodated in some comfort. channel, which is 222m wide at
3 640 whales killed by its fleet. In In an interview with Tanya its narrowest point. It’s dark and
the early 1900s, it became common Waterworth for IOL, he tells how, as a dingy, so you’ll need a torch.
knowledge that more whales passed teenager, he would visit the whaling On the other side, however, are
closer to Durban’s shores than any stations and watch the whale catchers sunshine and endless views of
other coastal city in the world,” coming into the Durban harbour. the clear, blue Indian Ocean.
according to the newsletter. He went to work for the company,
starting in the UWC laboratory SETTING OFF
HUGE INCENTIVES as a university student during We gathered at a small heritage site
The Union Whaling Company holidays, and working his way up. that commemorates the World War II
(UWC), founded by Norwegian-born During the 1960s, conservationists gun emplacements, where Hagen
businessman Abraham Larsen, was justifiably raised alarm over the massive gave us some background, then set
the main operator and offered reduction in whale populations, bringing off for the magnificent coastal walk.
crews huge incentives. to an end the bloody trade, at least in the En route were some interesting sites,
“In a year, a worker could make enough Western world. It has been banned in such as the remains of Cave Rock, which
money to buy a car and pay for a year’s its entirety in South Africa since 1979. was reportedly dynamited in the 1940s

60 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

by the South African War Department. ABOVE: Gaps in
It was a large sandstone formation the wall of the
that once stood proudly at The Bluff old storage area
offer views of
headland, according to Durban writer the sea. LEFT:
and illustrator Graham Leslie McCallum. A World War II
We also spotted a commemorative relic. BELOW:
plaque with an amusing inscription, One of the
original whaling
dedicated to a deceased army colonel station buildings.
who liked to fish there. It reads: ‘’Žȱ 3+2726<9211(
˜•˜—Ž•ȱœŽȱ Š. In loving memory of )217<1
Colonel JCJ Louw. 07/03/1959–25/01/2019’.
This is a long trek for those who
are not used to hiking, and the tour
organisers do stipulate that participants
should wear good walking shoes,
have a fair level of fitness, and bring
a hat and a good supply of water. To
get to the whaling station itself, there’s
a bit of a climb onto a steep bank.

SOMBRE ATMOSPHERE
We threaded our way through the eerie,
derelict buildings that once made up
the whaling station. Hagen pointed out
the former head office, other offices,
laboratory, workshop buildings, meat

13 JUNE 2025 IDUPHU·V ZHHNO\ 61

LIFESTYLE Travel

where the animals were brought

ashore and their carcasses stripped,
as well as the huge storage areas.
Here, some of the bricks have been
removed, creating portholes with a
view of the thrashing sea just outside.
Although the Old Whaling Station has
been declared a world heritage site, it is
not being maintained. Clearly, people
were living in the buildings, despite the
missing roofs on many of them, there
TOP: A structure put up for meal store, staff accommodation, was a lot of rubbish lying around, and
surveillance during World War II.
MIDDLE: Overgrown with vegetation, the boiler house and plants, kitchen, we could smell fires smouldering.
old whaling station has a haunted feel. dining room, and the cannery. There was a bit of time allowed for
ABOVE: Some of the writer‘s tour Many of the buildings are covered in wandering around, taking pictures,
group of about 30. These tours are graffiti and all are crumbling, giving and just soaking up the history of
always booked up ahead of time.
ABOVE RIGHT: Walkers are treated the place a sombre atmosphere. the place. Afterwards, we posed for a
to long vistas of the ocean. We were shown the flensing area, group picture before starting to make

62 IDUPHU·V ZHHNO\ 13 JUNE 2025

 bottom giving us a heave up, and some
willing types at the top grasping our
hands and pulling us over the top.
Some in the group formed a welcome
party, loudly cheering each person
as if we’d all just run the Comrades
Marathon. That was a heart-warming
end to the tour, as most of us went our
own way at our own pace after that.
Since going on the tour, I have often
reflected on what a surreal experience
it was and how it has stuck in my mind.
I can indeed see the fascination in
walking around an old whaling station.
Visit durbanwalkingtours.co.za. FW

BELOW: A view of Durban from The

Bluff side. BOTTOM: The tour starts at
a small heritage site that commemorates
the World War II gun emplacements.

THIS RELIC OF A
NOW ABANDONED
INDUSTRY STILL
HOLDS A STRANGE
FASCINATION

our way back at about 10.30am.

I’m not sure when the wind started
picking up, but by the time we
got back down to the beach, the
waves were barrelling in, leaving
a small margin for walking.
Step by step, it became very hard going,
more excruciating as the wind and sand
rushed at us, getting in our eyes and
stinging our skins. Hagen said that in
all the tours she had conducted, she’d
never experienced anything like it.
Shielding our faces from the onslaught,
we made our way back. As we climbed
back up the steep bank and it became
obvious that most of us wouldn’t make
it unassisted, it turned into a group
effort, with some burly types at the

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 63

LIFESTYLE Great Tales

The saga of the Maid of Fort Beaufort

Graham Jooste tells a moving and poignant love story set against the backdrop of the war-torn Eastern
Cape during the height of the Frontier Wars in the mid-1800s.

O
ne lovely Sunday afternoon,
young John Marvell walked
hand-in-hand with his
sweetheart, Ann, on the outskirts of
their village in Hampshire in the UK.
He had often mentioned to her that he
would like to become a sailor and travel
the oceans in search of adventure.
Ann listened in awe to his
ambitions and wondered if
anything would ever come of it.
The next day, John simply disappeared.
His distraught parents and the rest
of the village started to scour the
countryside, with many suspecting
foul play from the smuggling fraternity
that operated along the coastline.
The county sheriff was alerted and,
after a few weeks of searching, with no
results, the inhabitants settled back into
their routine of fishing and farming.
A month later, the village woke to
the news that Ann had not slept in her
bed and was missing from her home.
Another search revealed nothing, and
the entire surrounding population was
involved in searching and gossiping.
What Ann actually did was Martello tower at Fort Beaufort during the Frontier Wars. PHOTOS: GRAHAM JOOSTE
disguise herself as a boy and
find her way to Plymouth. finding her beloved and resigned The ship was a Royal Navy troop
After some two years at sea searching herself to the fact she would be carrier, and she had on board a
for John, she returned to England working for the Lindsay family. battalion of the 91st Regiment
and found employment aboard the Ann became a great favourite with under the command of Lindsay.
good ship Abercrombie Robinson as both the passengers and crew, and The intention was that as soon as
a steward. It is not known whether the voyage to the Cape was pleasant she had taken on water and food, the
she made contact with her family. under fair winds and fine weather. transport was to proceed to Algoa Bay
The ship sailed for the Cape in 1842, The troopship dropped anchor in for disembarkation and to relieve the
with Ann still dressed as a boy. the choppy waters of Table Bay on battalion at Fort Beaufort. But now, the
During the voyage, rough seas brewed 25 September 1842. Alongside her ship was in danger of breaking up.
up, and Ann slipped on the deck and was the Waterloo, carrying convicts Aboard the ship, the troops
was injured. Fortunately, a medial doctor and soldiers bound for Australia. responded to their orders, and the
was on board, and to his amazement, he rescue of the women and children
discovered that the steward was in fact a SUCCESSFUL RESCUE MISSION proceeded without incident. Captain
girl. He immediately notified the captain, A stiff breeze soon developed into a gale Young issued calm orders and was
John Young, who was in a quandary of furious proportions. The Abercrombie well supported by Lindsay.
about what to do with the young woman. Robinson strained and twisted around At first, a small surfboat arrived
At the dinner table that evening, her anchor cables until finally they from the harbour master, and later
Lieutenant-Colonel Lindsay and his snapped, and the ship appeared doomed a larger one. By 8.30am, all the
wife volunteered to take Ann on as as she drifted towards the shore. women and children and a portion
a nurse maid for her two children. Fortunately, she slewed around, of the soldiers were safely ashore.
After years of searching and hoping, and her bow ploughed into the soft Not a soul was lost. Meanwhile, the
Ann had abandoned all hope of sands near the Salt River mouth. Waterloo simply split her seams, with

64 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

a subsequent dreadful loss of life. officer the next morning. Ann was Six months later, he was promoted to
So impressed was Lindsay with Ann totally distressed, and Mrs Lindsay sat sergeant because of his enthusiastic
during the evacuation of the women with her for hours during the night. approach to his duties and study
and children, that he offered her Under close questioning by the colonel, of musketry. Amid much joy,
permanent employment and invited Mullins broke down and confessed that the wedding date was set.
her to accompany Colonel to Fort he was in fact John Marvell. The colonel
Beaufort, which she accepted. now contrived a meeting between Ann A UNION NOT MEANT TO BE
She was exited when she saw wild and John in his office the following On the eve of their wedding, fate
game, which endeared her even more morning. He instructed the duty sergeant played another trick on Ann. John
to her adopted family. On arrival, to keep an eye on John during the night. was returning from Grahamstown
the Lindsays were granted a neat Ann was seated next to the colonel’s with mail and despatches when his
commanding officer’s cottage, and desk when John was admitted into the detail was confronted with the Koonap
the family settled into the routine office. He strode in, took his cap off, River in flood after severe rain. The
of military life once again. stood to attention, awaited orders, and drift was running strongly, but they
The family often discussed wondered what would happen next. ventured into it carefully and all
Ann, but could get no response As the colonel looked away, John seemed well until they were swept
from her about why she had gone ventured a glance at the blonde girl away when reaching the middle. All
to sea disguised as a boy. the horses and the men survived except
Fate and coincidence were soon to John, who was drowned after hitting
answer their question. The attractive his head on a submerged rock.
Ann had now grown her golden hair, Ann was beside herself with grief,
and many a young officer requested and the Lindsays were worried about
her to accompany them to social her safety, as she became irrational
outings within the regiment. in many ways. Her faith, however,
However, she remained quiet, stood her in good stead, and after
reserved, and rather withdrawn. The incessant praying, she emerged again,
Lindsays were starting to worry about after some two months, to her old
her forgetfulness and zest for life. self and again turned to her work as
the Lindsay children’s governess.
A TOUCHING RECONCILIATION Some years later, Ann married Troop
It was Ann’s duty to take the children Sergeant Moffatt of the 7th Dragoon
for a late afternoon walk before the Guards. But still fate and misfortune
evening meal. On one particular day, followed her. At a skirmish with the
she returned pale and distraught, Xhosa near Fort Peddie, her husband
and locked herself in her room. displayed gallantry but was severely
The two little Lindsay children kept injured with numerous stab wounds,
knocking on her door and asked her to and his right arm had to be amputated.
open it, but she did not respond. Mrs He was declared unfit for military duty
Lindsay soon requested her to open the and discharged with a small pension.
door and accompanied her back to bed. British military uniform during the Frontier Wars. During his recovery period, the
Eventually Ann told her mistress couple stayed on at Fort Peddie before
all about what had happened in the and instantly recognised her. She locating to Leeuwfontein, some 30km
past. Sobbing, she explained that she gasped and her hand flew to her mouth. from Fort Beaufort on the Grahamstown
had recognised one of the sentries on John took a step towards her, road. This beautiful setting consisted
guard duty as her long-lost friend and but suddenly realised he was in of a hostelry called The African Hotel
childhood sweetheart, John Marvell. the presence of his commanding – frequented by the military, settlers,
The astounded Colonel Lindsay officer. Lindsay discreetly left his and travellers – where they managed
promised his wife that he would office and told the sentry that he the store. The couple was blessed
intervene and find out the true would be back in five minutes. with two sons and a daughter.
identity of the sentry, as the regimental A touching and miraculous In 1851, Ann became ill, possibly
list had no John Marvell on it. reconciliation between John and Ann with pneumonia, and passed away
In those days, many recruits signed up took place, and once more the couple at the age of 30, leaving three young
for The Kings Shilling under false names laughed and spoke about each other. children behind in the care of their
as a means to escape something or other. They decided there and then to get father. She was buried at Fort Peddie.
The colonel soon had a suspect in mind: married as soon as possible. There ȊȲSources: Metrowich, FC. 1968.
a boy fitting the description supplied by was, however, an obstacle: army law Frontier Flames. Books of Africa;
Ann had signed on in London some two stated that an enlisted man could only Fort Beaufort Historical Museum.
years prior under the name John Mullins. be granted permission to have a wife Graham Jooste is an author and historical
Trooper J Mullins was ordered to appear if he had attained the rank of sergeant. researcher. Email him at farmersweekly@
at headquarters before the commanding John was, by then, a corporal. caxton.co.za Subject line: Great tales. FW

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 65

AUCTIONS
Market Report
28 May 2025 Price/kg

For more information, phone Chris Derksen on 082 807 5961.

Beef
Weaner calves < 200kg R36,11
Weaner calves 200kg - 250kg R36,80
Weaner calves > 250kg R35,20
A-class R36,57

Best livestock prices: Northern Free State

B-class Not available
C-class cows (fat) R25,50
C-class cows (thin) R19,60
Slaughter bulls R25,62
Mutton and lamb
Feeder lambs > 30kg R47,54

Auction Sales Slaughter lambs

Feeder ewes
R47,87
R33,74
Fat ewes R34,65
TO PLACE AN UPCOMING AUCTION EVENT in the Classifieds Auctions section, Goats
contact Rowena Nundkumar on 010 971 3774 or at rowenas@caxton.co.za. Lambs R52
TO LIST AUCTION RESULTS in this section, email Janine Ryan at janiner@caxton.co.za. Ewes R44,18

Alpha and Omega

Tuli Production Sale
HIGHEST PRICE: (BULL) R90 000
Burgersdorp – The Alpha and Omega Tuli Production
Sale was held on the farm Essex on 21 May, on behalf
of Harm and Alwyn Marx, and Gert Schmidt.
The highest price of the day was paid for the bull AM 23 127,
which was sold to VV Broers Boerdery in Kestell for
R90 000. Bulls achieved an average price of R42 892,86.
Heifers achieved an average price of R21 400,
while cows achieved an average of R24 562,50.
Commercial cows were sold for an average price of R15 708,33,
while commercial cows achieved an average of R18 038,46.
The sale was held by BKB, with JP Marais The bull AM 23 127 achieved the highest price of the day
as the auctioneer. – Gavin Isted when he was sold for R90 000. PHOTOS: GAVIN ISTED

TOP PRICES
VV Broers Boerdery, Kestell R90 000
WF de Jager, Carolina R68 000
HG Marx, Burgersdorp R62 000
Ganna Boerdery, Danhof R60 000
WHV Boerdery, Humansdorp R58 000

The heifer AM 22 171 achieved the highest price in her

category when she was sold for R25 000.

66 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

Breypaal Letelle Top Tier and Stormberg
Stud Production Sale Merino Stud Sale
HIGHEST PRICE: (RAM) R12 000 HIGHEST PRICE: (RAM) R22 000
Smithfield – The Breypaal Letelle Stud Production Sale Molteno – The Top Tier and Stormberg Merino Stud
was held on the farm Breypaal on 5 March, on behalf Production Sale was held on the farm Buffels on
of Wally and Kathy Ward. 28 February, on behalf of Robbie and Grant Stretton.
The highest price of the day was paid for a ram, The highest price of the day was paid for a ram, which
which was sold to DG Snyman of Philippolis for was sold to Matthew Morgan of MJ Morgan Farming in
R12 000. Rams achieved an average price of R5 500. Tarkastad for R22 000. Rams achieved an average price of
In-lamb ewes were sold for an average of R1 875,41, R7 666,67. Ewes were sold for an average of R1 764,84.
while ewes achieved an average price of R1 529,96. The sale was held by BKB, with JP Marais
The sale was held by BKB, with JP Marais as the auctioneer. – Gavin Isted
as the auctioneer. – Gavin Isted
TOP PRICES
MJ Morgan Farming, Tarkastad R22 000
MJ Morgan Farming, Tarkastad R12 000
DB Bradfield, Dordrecht R11 000
VH Cronje, Barkly East R10 500
MJ Morgan Farming, Tarkastad R10 000

The highest-priced ram, which was sold for R12 000, with (back, from
left): DG Snyman (buyer), Wally Ward (seller), Jan Joubert (BKB),
and JP Marais (auctioneer). Front: Johannes Sefali (handler).

TOP PRICES
DG Snyman, Philippolis R12 000
LT Oosthuizen, Bloemfontein R10 000
LT Oosthuizen, Bloemfontein R10 000 The highest-priced ram, which was sold for R22 000, with (back,
JCJ van Rooyen, Rouxville R6 000 from left): JP Marais (auctioneer), Gary Trethewey (BKB), Grant
and Robbie Stretton (sellers), Matthew Morgan (buyer), and
E Naude, Frankfort R6 000 Antoinette Birch (stud worker). Front: Chicken Jokiwe (handler).

Etienne van Tonder Bonsmaras Sale

HIGHEST PRICE: (BULL) R40 000 Polokwane for R40 000. Bulls achieved R17 926, while in-calf heifers were
Bela-Bela – The Etienne van Tonder an average price of R40 000. sold for an average of R17 822.
Bonsmaras Sale was held at the Cows with calves were sold for an Open heifers achieved an
Warmbad Auction Complex on 17 May. average of R18 333, while 3-in-1 cows average price of R7 803.
The highest price of the day (with their calves) were sold for an The sale was held by Vleissentraal,
was paid for the bull BBM 20 343, average price of R21 560. In-calf cows with Pieter-John Venter as the
which was sold to Ebas Boerdery of achieved an average price of auctioneer. – Staff reporter

13 JUNE 2025 farmer’s weekly 67

Ask Our Vet
Feline panleukopaenia
Dear Prof McCrindle, muddy conditions. These are favourable Survivors are cats that were vaccinated
Several farm cats live close to our dairy. conditions for transmission of the virus. at eight weeks, received a booster at three
They are semi-feral, but we put down In feral populations, the first deaths are months, and had then been vaccinated
milk for them to drink whenever we usually seen in young kittens, as adults annually. You mentioned that your cats
milk the cows. It’s good to have them pick up an immunity over time. However, had only been vaccinated for rabies.
around because they keep the rats away. once there is a high level of the virus in a The symptoms shown by a sick cat
Recently, I noticed that the kittens feral population, adults also start dying. are typically listlessness, a high fever
had disappeared, and yesterday one In a sick cat, the first signs of disease of 40°C, depression, severe diarrhoea,
of our older tomcats looked sick. He include lethargy and lack of appetite. vomiting, and dehydration. Unvaccinated
was vomiting and looked very weak. Then the infected cat will show vomiting, cats can die within 24 hours.
The state veterinarian said we should diarrhoea, and dehydration. The treatment is hospitalisation, injections
always vaccinate the adult cats against Initially, the outbreak is not noticed to stop the vomiting and diarrhoea, and
rabies, and we do that every year. But this in a group of feral cats where newly rehydration using intravenous fluids.
disease is not rabies. What could it be? weaned kittens with low resistance are Even with treatment, there is a very
Dairy Farmer, the first to disappear. They creep away to high death rate in unvaccinated cats.
Gauteng die, so there are no bodies to be seen. Once the virus is in the environment, it
The next group to disappear is the can survive for years, so all kittens should
Dear Dairy Farmer, young females that were the mothers of be vaccinated and dewormed at weaning,
There is a highly infectious and fatal viral the now dead kittens, as their immunity given at least two vaccines at monthly
disease of cats called panleukopaenia. is depleted by the stress of giving intervals, and then boosters every year.
It is caused by the feline parvovirus birth and feeding their offspring. Kinds regards,
and is commonly found in semi- Feral tomcats have the highest survival Prof Cheryl McCrindle
wild or feral cats that have not been rate, as they are tough and have often ȊȲSource: DeTar, L. February 2025.
regularly vaccinated and dewormed. acquired immunity over time. The last to ‘Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Parvoviral
In Gauteng, there has been a lot of rain die are house cats, who have probably been Enteritis, Feline Infectious Enteritis)’. Merck
this season, with early morning mist and vaccinated at some stage in their lives. Veterinary Manual. bit.ly/4jqXRJA. FW
Cheryl McCrindle is an emeritus full professor in the Faculty of Veterinary Science at the University of Pretoria, and has extensive experience in animal health.
Email her at farmersweekly@caxton.co.za. Subject line: Ask our vet.

Sudoku
MEDIUM DIFFICULT 6 JUNE
7 5 8 4 1 2 9 6 3
9 3 7 3 8 4 9 1 2 6 7 3 4 8 5
3 4 6 5 8 9 7 1 2
1 8 1 5 2 8 3 9 7 4 6 2 5 1
5 7 4 8 2 1 3 9 6
6 2 1 9 3 5 8 7 4
4 2 1 2 9
1 8 7 2 6 4 5 3 9
4 9 3 1 5 7 6 2 8
6 5 3 6 7 1 2 6 5 3 9 8 1 4 7
MEDIUM
2 6 9
8 4 5 1 7 2 9 6 3
6 7 9 8 3 4 5 1 2
2 4 3 8 9 3 1 2 3 5 6 9 7 4 8
9 5 7 2 4 6 8 3 1
7 4 5 6 6 2 6 8 3 5 1 4 9 7
3 1 4 9 8 7 6 2 5
5 9 8 3 4 4 8 2 6 1 5 3 7 9
5 9 6 7 2 3 1 8 4
7 3 1 4 9 8 2 5 6
2 8 1 1 4 5 8 DIFFICULT

HOW TO PLAY: Fill in the grid so that each row and column, as well as each of the 3 x 3 squares, contains all the digits from 1 to 9.
Look out for the answers to this week’s Sudoku puzzles in next week’s magazine.

68 farmer’s weekly 13 JUNE 2025

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