Farmer's Inside Track

In this episode, we sit down with Mosa Balesamang,  an animal scientist, livestock consultant, and passionate sheep farmer making waves both in the field and on TikTok. Mosa shares her journey from earning her degree in Animal Science in 2017 to serving in Botswana's Ministry of Agriculture, and how her work in cattle insemination and livestock consulting is helping reshape the future of farm...

If you think farming has nothing to do with your dinner plate, think again. In this episode, we’re crossing over to our sister publication, Food For Mzansi’s Farmer’s Inside Track podcast for a special feature that dives into sustainability and the red meat on your plate. Frik van Rooyen from the Red Meat Producers’ Organisation (RPO) joins the conversation with a powerful message about sustainabi...

After 44 years in agriculture and over two decades in the wine industry, Rydal Jeftha, managing director of Koopmanskloof Wines, knows that the future of South African wine lies in its people. In this episode, Jeftha shares his journey from navigating the industry without a mentor to becoming one of its most passionate champions of skills development and knowledge transfer. We dive deep into his p...

In this episode, we dive into one of the most overlooked threats to crop production, free water or gravitational water, and how it affects South African farmers across different provinces.  Soil scientist Peter Mudau breaks down what free water is, how to identify it, and why proper management is crucial for healthy soils and productive yields.  From recognising signs of waterlogging to...

In this episode, we sit down with legal expert Pearl Gibbs, an attorney, conveyancer, and notary public, who unpacks the most pressing legal challenges facing South Africa’s new-generation farmers. From contract negotiations with powerful agricultural companies to navigating the complexities of long-term land lease agreements, our guest shares crucial legal strategies to level the playing field.&n...

In this episode, we chat to Kevin Pieterse, an experienced farm manager and Kyron Agri representative, who unpacks practical strategies for controlling and managing endoparasites in livestock.  From understanding different types of internal parasites to choosing the right dewormers and implementing effective treatment timelines, Pieterse offers valuable insights every farmer should know.&nbsp...

From laying bricks to paving his own path to success, Anton Saunderson’s story is one of vision and transformation. In this episode, we meet a man who began with a modest construction crew and followed his heart all the way to the cattle kraal. Today he passion has evolved into a high-functioning feedlot where 180 cattle are managed with sharp precision. Behind it all is a businessman who runs on...

One bad seed can ruin everything. In this episode, part of a special SANSOR campaign, we unpack why seed certification matters more than you might think.  Across Africa, many farmers unknowingly plant uncertified or poor-quality seed—jeopardising their harvests, their incomes, and their futures. Thabiso Ntsele, certification technician at the South African National Seed Organisation (SANSOR),...

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...