Farmer's Inside Track

For its seventh birthday, Food For Mzansi isn’t celebrating with cake. It’s listening. The “Stand up and be counted” campaign invites farmers, farmworkers, and agripreneurs nationwide to share their stories, creating South Africa’s most inclusive agricultural survey yet. By combining storytelling with data, the platform aims to give a voice to the often-overlooked, reveal the sector’s real diversi...

In this episode, Dr Siphe Zantsi, agricultural economist at the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), breaks down the importance of formalising your farming business. From registering your farm and keeping accurate records to choosing the right business structure and opening a dedicated bank account, Zantsi explains how formalisation builds credibility, attracts investment, opens new market opportu...

This is part 1 of a special series with Nedbank, unpacking the bank’s R7,1 million investment to support South Africa’s next generation of farmers. In this episode, Dr Nirmala Reddy explains how two major programmes are helping young and established farmers build sustainable, future-ready agricultural businesses. We explore Nedbank’s African Greeneurs programme, supporting young farmers with land,...

In this episode of Farmer's Inside Track, we dive into Pannar Seed’s Panagri™ research programme. De Bruyn Myburgh, agronomy manager at Pannar Seed and a key driver of the programme, shares how they use precision agriculture and multi-regional trials to help farmers optimise yields and maximise profits. These trials, supported by the Pannar Sprout mobile app, ensure farmers get accurate, profitabl...

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Andries Masoga of Mazeli Farming and Projects, a family-run agribusiness in Limpopo that grew from a small backyard garden into a thriving 140-hectare enterprise. Andries shares how his wife, Tsakani Masoga’s passion for home gardening sparked a journey that now spans tomatoes, potatoes, butternut, and peppadew under formal offtake agreements w...

In this episode, we focus on Voermol SS200, a specially formulated concentrate designed to support small stock performance. Joining us is Dr. Josef van Wyngaard, Technical Manager at Voermol Feeds, who explains what SS200 is for, which animals benefit most, and the early signs farmers should watch for when introducing it into their feeding programme. We’ll explore how SS200 can support fertility a...

Join agricultural economist Joseph Kau from the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) as he explores how indigenous crops can thrive profitably through agroecology.  Kau explains how agroecology balances ecological sustainability, social justice, and economic viability. He shares insights on how crops like rooibos tea and Karoo lamb demonstrate the power of respecting local knowledge, securing...

In this episode, we spotlight Netafim Southern & East Africa and its mission to drive water-smart farming across the continent. Managing director Michael Esmeraldo unpacks how precision irrigation is transforming African agriculture, from boosting yields and conserving water to helping farmers meet future sustainability standards. He shares insights on Netafim’s efforts to make drip irrigation...

After 24 years of teaching agricultural sciences, Phaladi Motsole swapped the classroom for the fields – building a thriving maize enterprise in the Free State.  In this episode, he shares how his academic background influenced his farming journey, the challenges of securing funding and scaling up, and the importance of discipline, commitment, and passion in the agricultural sector.

In this episode, we focus on Voermol Premix 450, a specially formulated feed supplement designed to enhance cattle growth, condition, and reproductive performance.  Dr. Josef van Wyngaard, Technical Manager at Voermol Feeds, explores what sets Premix 450 apart from other protein licks and fattening mixes. Whether you’re a seasoned cattle farmer or just starting out, this episode offers action...

In this episode of Farmer's Inside Track , we dive into the essentials of establishing productive pastures for livestock with agricultural researcher Patrick Rakau from the Agricultural Research Council (ARC). From understanding soil types and rainfall patterns in South Africa to choosing the right cultivars and preparing land effectively, Rakau shares practical, science-based guidance for every l...

In this episode, we head to the Free State to meet Johannes Willem (JW) Dercksen, who has been farming alongside his father in Hertzogville for the past four years.  After gaining international experience working in the United States, JW returned home with a clear vision: to achieve maximum yields on minimum hectares while staying true to his philosophy of “back to basics.” JW shares insights...

Every cattle farmer wants the same thing - faster-growing calves, high-performing cows, and resilient herds that thrive through every season. In this episode, we’re diving into Voermol SB100 — a feed supplement that’s transforming herds across South Africa. Farmers like Maungo Mokgoje in the Northern Cape swear by it for boosting weight gain and herd resilience, even in the toughest, driest condit...

The success of a maize crop begins long before green shoots break through the soil – it starts with germination. In this episode, Kerry Rowlands, seasoned field agronomist at Pannar Seed, unpacks why planting depth, soil moisture, and nutrient support are the “terms and conditions” for a strong start. From the science behind seed activation to the risks of cold injury and the role of starter ferti...

In this episode, abattoir manager and meat inspector Jeremiah Jothams unpacks why supplying poultry to abattoirs can be more profitable and sustainable than selling live birds. He explains the compliance requirements under the Meat Safety Act, including environmental impact assessments, water rights, and health declarations. Jothams also shares practical insights on biosecurity risks, vaccination,...

In this episode, we unpack an often-overlooked but crucial part of farming: workplace accidents and labour law compliance.  Our guest, Stephan Pietersen, founder of Work Accident Support, explains how he helps farmers and farm workers navigate the complex world of South Africa’s labour legislation, specifically the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA). Stephan break...

Behind every cut of meat is a story of farmers, veterinarians, and inspectors working to protect your health.  In this episode, powered by the Red Meat Producers' Organisation, Dr Shayna Louw , Veterinary Public Health Veterinarian at the Red Meat Abattoir Association , takes us through the hidden systems that keep meat free from harmful bacteria and residues.  From farm to fridge, disco...

The 2025 edition of Agri’s Got Talent (AGT) ended on a high note when Patensie-born Jenedine Jantjies took the crown, bringing immense pride to her small Eastern Cape community. In this inspiring episode, Jantjies reflects on the whirlwind of emotions she felt when her name was announced, the overwhelming support from her hometown, and her journey from babysitting the children of farmworkers to di...

South Africa has become a global leader in agricultural biotechnology – ranking eighth worldwide in biotech crop production.  With adoption rates of 87% for maize, 95% for soybean, and 100% for cotton, farmers are proving the value of genetically engineered crops in the face of climate stress, pests, and rising costs. In this episode, Kerry Rowlands, field agronomist at Pannar Seed, explains...

In this episode, we dive into the essentials of greenhouse crop protection and why it’s a game-changer for farmers. From scouting and biosecurity to the role of beneficial insects and organic solutions, we explore practical strategies to keep pests and diseases under control. With insights from MJ Nunes of Sable Creek Farms, you’ll learn common mistakes to avoid, sustainable methods to protect you...

Strong, fertile goats. Fewer parasite problems. Herds that bounce back quickly after kidding. Sounds too good to be true? Not for farmers like Sizwe Thusi in KwaZulu-Natal, who rely on Voermol Game Block to keep their goats in peak condition all year round. In this episode, we shine the spotlight on Voermol Game Block with Dr. Josef van Wyngaard, Voermol Feeds’ technical manager.  We break do...

In this special pre-competition episode, we bring you intimate interviews with all the contestants of Agri’s Got Talent 2025.  You’ll hear about the highs, the nerves, and the moments that surprised them during the intense training week. They share how training week was filled with unforgettable moments and breakthroughs that pushed them beyond their comfort zones.

The Free State is often called South Africa’s breadbasket — a province rich in farming heritage and central to the nation’s food security. But in the face of climate shifts, economic pressures, and mounting systemic risks, what does the future hold for its farmers? In this episode of Farmers Inside Track , we sit down with the leadership team of Free State Agriculture (FSA) — CEO Gernie Botha, Pre...

In this episode of Farmers Inside Track, we explore the ins and outs of running a successful mixed farming enterprise. Drawing on years of experience, Loyiso Mbete offers practical strategies for balancing crops and livestock, planning around market demand, and making the most of every resource on the farm.  From the importance of gravel roads and fencing to the role of record-keeping, biosec...

US tariff measures are shaking up global agriculture, and South Africa is not immune. Despite worries over inflation and market stability, the world economy shows early resilience. Find out what’s at stake and how to stay ahead. Download the Absa AgriTrends Spring 2025 here: https://bit.ly/agritrends25