Farmer's Inside Track

In this episode, we dive into sustainable farming with MJ Nunes , founder of Sable Creek Farms . From system design and crop selection to fish stocking, water management, and market strategies, Nunes shares practical insights for anyone looking to thrive in aquaponics. Whether you're an aspiring aquaponics farmer or a curious eco-enthusiast, this is your essential guide to farming smarter, not har...

In this episode, we spotlight Awdalia – a 100% youth- and black women-owned agribusiness rooted in resilience and driven by purpose.  Founded in 2016 by the passionate Njabulo Mbokane , this enterprise began in abandoned school gardens and has grown into a diversified operation managing two farms in Mpumalanga.  Awdalia now produces maize, soya beans, and high-quality merino sheep wool a...

In this episode, we sit down with seasoned farmer Richard Ball , who shares tips on how to start pecan nut farming.  With close to two decades of hands-on farming experience, Ball highlights the importance of planting not just for profit but for posterity.  He delves into natural pest control, the power of indigenous livestock in regenerative systems, and why true sustainability lies in...

In this inspiring episode of Farmers Inside Track , we travel to Vondo village in Limpopo’s Vhembe district, where we meet Matika Khathutshelo, the passionate force behind Matika Subcrop Farming.  From humble beginnings to managing 10 hectares of macadamia, avocado, and litchi orchards, Matika shares how he turned his childhood love for farming into a thriving business.

In this episode, we delve into the crucial topic of selecting the right maize varieties for South Africa's diverse farming environments. Maize is not only a dietary staple but also a cornerstone of the country’s agricultural economy — and choosing the right variety can make or break a farming season. Siya Jabuza , marketing officer at Lake Agriculture, joins us to unpack why it’s essential for far...

Many outgrower schemes across Africa still rely on outdated, paper-based systems that create inefficiencies and missed opportunities. But sproot, a groundbreaking digital platform, is changing the game. In this episode, we speak to Michael Bruderli, co-founder of sproot, about how the platform is reshaping the future of contract farming. Designed specifically for African agribusinesses and smallho...

In an era of environmental awareness, Absa’s latest AgriTrends report explores the growing importance of carbon footprints in agriculture and what it means for farmers and the planet’s future. Download the Absa AgriTrends Autumn 2025 here: https://bit.ly/4cjfvwE

Ivor Price sits down with Absa’s agricultural economists to discuss major shifts in South Africa’s vegetable market, including the impact of Botswana’s import ban lift and the future of onion pricing. Download the Absa AgriTrends Autumn 2025 here: https://bit.ly/4cjfvwE

Absa’s agricultural economists reveal the winners of 2024 and what’s ahead for South Africa’s high-value exports, including citrus, macadamias, and table grapes. Download the Absa AgriTrends Autumn 2025 here: https://bit.ly/4cjfvwE

From beef and pork to mutton and eggs, Absa’s powerhouse team of agricultural economists dive into the factors influencing South Africa’s livestock industry, from disease threats to price swings. Download the Absa AgriTrends Autumn 2025 here: https://bit.ly/4cjfvwE

With global prices falling, what lies ahead for local farmers? Absa’s experts join Ivor Price to reveal key strategies for staying competitive in a tougher market. Download the Absa AgriTrends Autumn 2025 here: https://bit.ly/4cjfvwE

A powerhouse team of Absa agricultural economists unpacks the latest AgriTrends report, analyzing President Donald Trump’s tariffs, shifting US policies, changing EU dynamics, and China’s evolving influence on global trade. Download the Absa AgriTrends Autumn 2025 here: https://bit.ly/4cjfvwE

In this special on-the-road edition of Farmer’s Inside Track , we catch up with Khuliso Madima , a passionate fruit farmer in Thohoyandou, Limpopo.  Once a corporate project manager in the IT industry, Khuliso transitioned into farming, continuing her family’s legacy of growing litchis and mangoes. She shares her journey of integrating technology into agriculture, navigating market challenges...

In this episode we dive into the fascinating world of soil health with Dr Buhlebelive Mndzebele, a crop science researcher at the Agricultural Research Council. We explore how soil aggregates—tiny clusters of sand, silt, clay, and organic matter—play a crucial role in water retention, nutrient availability, and root growth. Mndzebele also breaks down the role of microbial communities, or "microbia...

In this episode, we tackle a disease every maize farmer needs to know about: Goss’s wilt.  Our guest, Dr Rikus Kloppers, private consultant at Robigalia Cropcare, breaks down what Goss’s wilt is, why it’s important, and the serious impact it can have on your crops. Dr Kloppers shares insight into how the disease spreads and what signs farmers should look out for if they suspect it’s made its...

Farmers Inside Track has officially hit 500 episodes and we couldn’t have done it without you, our amazing listeners.  In this special milestone episode, hosts of the podcast, Duncan Masiwa and Patricia Tembo take a trip down memory lane, reliving some of the most unforgettable moments, listener favourites, and expert insights that have shaped the show. From South Africa to North America, Eur...

In this episode, poultry farmer and agriculturalist Kamogelo Thobejane shares expert insights on marketing, pricing, branding, and financial management for poultry businesses. Learn how to identify the right markets, set profitable prices, build a strong brand, and avoid common financial mistakes. Plus, discover how social media can boost your poultry sales. Tune in for practical strategies to gro...

In this episode, we take you on a journey behind the scenes of South Africa’s red meat supply chain. We explore the vital role our farmers play in bringing high-quality, locally produced meat to your table. We’re honoured to be joined by Rustin Shawe, a KwaZulu-Natal-based cattle and maize farmer whose love for the land and respect for his animals shines through in every aspect of his work. He sha...

In this episode, we sit down with Rennie Brink, a commercial grain, wine, and livestock farmer from the Western Cape, who runs Groot Phesantekraal with his father and brother.  Known for its diverse operations, Groot Phesantekraal combines grain farming, livestock, and game farming with a growing agritourism strategy.  Rennie shares his journey of managing such a wide-ranging farm, offer...

In this episode, we sit down with Veenash Parbhoo , co-founder of PayCentral and Marketing Manager at Leandri Matthews , to explore how fintech solutions are transforming agricultural payment systems.  We dive into the challenges farms face with cash handling, the risks it poses, and how PayCentral’s platform provides a secure, cashless alternative.  Veenash shares insights into the evol...

In this episode, Food For Mzansi speaks with Neale White , a technical sales advisor at Molatek , about the often-overlooked role of phosphate in the health and productivity of cattle and sheep.  As the summer rains bring life to South Africa’s pastures, phosphate becomes a crucial supplement that can make a world of difference to your herd. Neale explains why phosphate is vital for optimal p...

In this episode, Mark Anderson, portfolio director for Propak Africa, gives us an exclusive preview of the highly anticipated exhibition set to take place from 11-14 March 2025 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre.  As one of the biggest events in the packaging, food processing, and printing industries, Propak Africa 2025 promises to bring together over 500 exhibitors, showcasing cutting-edge tech...

In this episode of Farmers Inside Track, we speak with attorney Lucinda Rhoodie about the legal and trade implications of bud rot (Phytophthora palmivora) in South Africa’s papaya industry. With restrictions on the movement of host materials and potential penalties for non-compliance, farmers must understand their legal responsibilities to safeguard their crops and trade opportunities. Tune in as...

n this episode, we explore the heart of sustainability in agriculture through the eyes of an influential advocate for change. In this moving conversation, Food For Mzansi’s co-founder, Ivor Price, sits down with Andile Ngcobo , a passionate agricultural consultant and farmer from KwaZulu-Natal. Andile was invited by Woolworths to witness their Farming for the Future initiative firsthand — an exper...

In this episode of the Farmers Insight Track podcast, Duncan Masiwa sits down with Lufuno Nethsikhudini , a passionate Limpopo-based farmer. Lufuno is making waves in the agricultural space, farming with Bonsmara cattle and a variety of cash crops, and he's now venturing into poultry with plans for a chicken hatchery.  From his early exposure to agriculture through school visits to commercial...