Farmer's Inside Track

In this episode, we speak with Zabion De Wee , a Free State livestock farmer who also grows sunflowers and watermelons. With an impressive diversification strategy that includes cattle, pigs, and poultry, Zabion shares some of the biggest lessons he's learned, the farming practices he swears by, and his ambitious plans to become the largest watermelon producer in the Free State.

In this episode, we delve into the phase-out of hazardous agricultural chemicals, specifically those classified under CMR 1A and 1B, known for their potential to cause cancer, genetic mutations, and reproductive harm.   Roleen la Grange , regulatory manager at CropLife South Africa , and Chana-Lee White , agri-intel manager, discuss the details of these regulatory changes. They also unpack ho...

In this episode, we’re joined by Willem Hendricks , the owner and trainer at WH Consulting, who brings over 31 years of experience in the wine export industry.   Willem's career includes roles at the Western Cape Department of Agriculture and various prominent wine-producing companies. Currently, he works as a production scheduler at a leading wine industry firm.   With his extensive han...

Livestock auctions can be daunting, especially for new-era farmers. To help you thrive in this critical aspect of agriculture, we’re joined by agricultural consultant Ndumiso Gule in our latest episode.   Ndumiso shares invaluable tips on understanding legal requirements; financial preparation and budgeting; as well assessing animal health. Whether you are a seasoned farmer or new to the game...

In this episode, we sit down with Lukeshni Chetty , General Manager of the South African National Seed Organisation (SANSOR) , to explore the intricate journey of agricultural seed development and the critical role it plays in agriculture. Discover the vital importance of research and development in the seed industry, and why it takes years of dedicated effort to bring a new seed variety to market...

Abortions in a herd can be frustrating for any cattle farmer. In this episode, Kenneth Malatji , animal health technician for Afrivet , provides valuable information and considerations for managing gestating cows and preventing pregnancy complications from occurring.

In this episode, we’re excited to welcome Corina du Toit , a seasoned professional with an impressive background in the wine industry. With an MSc in Wine Biotechnology from Stellenbosch University, a Diploma Wine Course from the Cape Wine Academy, and a Level 3 Qualification in Wine from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET, UK), Corina brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation. &nbs...

In this episode, Emmanuel Mudau , a livestock farmer from Limpopo, reveals how Voermol Feeds transformed his farm. Facing high mortality rates among his Bosvelder sheep, Emmanuel found a solution with Voermol Sheep and Goat Protein Lick , as well as Voermol's Premix 450 for his cattle. Tune in to discover how Voermol Feeds gave Emmanuel a market edge and revitalised his farm. We’ll also hear from...

In this episode, we delve into the role of soil analysis in agriculture with Werner Rossouw , technical manager for AECI Plant Health in the northern region. Werner examines how laboratory measurements of soil, leaf, and water samples offer crucial insights into their chemical and physical composition. We discuss the significance of understanding parameters such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium,...

Discover the benefits of automation, the evolution of irrigation technology, and insights into dosing systems, fertigation, and controllers. In this episode, Nickie Theron , Product Manager for Netafim , guide us through the world of digital farming within the context of irrigation. We explore how this technology transforms every aspect of farming. From the pumphouse to the greenhouse and beyond.

In this episode of Farmers Inside Track, we explore the story of Petrus Happy Letsitsa , a former financial advisor who swapped banking for commercial farming. Based in Welkom, Happy now farms 800 hectares of land, producing crops like maize meal, sunflower, and groundnuts. Join us as Happy shares how he grew his grain production from 250 tonnes to over 1 000 tonnes in just six years, offering ins...

Rural community development is crucial to South Africa's broader socio-economic transformation. Discover how Roana EasyFarm , a youth-led initiative, is advancing local food security by integrating sustainable aquaculture with tilapia farming and crop production.   By bringing aquaculture to rural communities, they are not only addressing food security but also fostering economic growth in th...

In this episode, we meet Nadia Heffer , who holds a BC in Viticulture and Oenology from Stellenbosch University and an MBA in responsible management from Audencia Business School in France. She specialises in developing strategic solutions for the wine and FMCG sectors, as well as in training and development.   Nadia began her consulting career in 2018 and founded her own business, Hive Colle...

In a small Swiss hotel garden, with the Jungfrau mountains standing tall in the background, Michaela Sandmayr, a grain and crop farmer based in Austria, sits down to share her story with Food For Mzansi’s assistant editor, Duncan Masiwa. Though her heart belongs to her family’s farm in Austria, Sandmayr is not just farming; she is helping farmers do something they never thought they needed—better...

Agriculture remains a key driver and beneficiary of technological innovations. In this episode, we speak to Thulani Magida, the founder of Juta Agritech , who explores the specific uses, benefits, licensing requirements, and potential of drone technology to advance agricultural practices in South Africa.

Join us as we delve into critical compliance issues under the National Environmental Management: Waste Act. This important legislation classifies pesticide containers and obsolete pesticides as hazardous waste, requiring stringent disposal protocols. In this episode, we speak with Dr Gerhard Verdoorn , operations and stewardship manager at CropLife South Africa , alongside compliance specialist Qu...

In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Ruth Faro, a seasoned veteran of the wine industry with nine years of experience. Faro’s journey has been a dynamic blend of challenges and successes, which have only strengthened her resolve and drive. Throughout her career, Faro has benefited from the guidance of invaluable mentors who have supported her growth. However, her dedication exten...

In this episode, agritech entrepreneur Ziphezinhle Gabuza explores the critical topic of digital safety in agriculture. Learn about the most common digital threats facing modern farms, how to protect your agricultural data from cyber attacks, and best practices for integrating IoT devices securely. Whether you’re a farmer or involved in agribusiness, this podcast offers essential insights to safeg...

Agro-processing is a viable avenue to diversify a farming enterprise, increase profitability and build business resilience. In this episode, Selinah Ntjana , the founder of Selinah the Goat , shares how she successfully diversified her enterprise. 

In this episode, Jerid-Lee Warries , a seasoned farmer with over 12 years of experience cultivating table grapes in the picturesque Piketberg region shares stories about his early to becoming a successful farmer at Broodkraal Landgoed Middelpos .   We dive deep into his motivations for venturing into table grape farming, how his methods have evolved over the years, and the innovative practice...

It is important to ensure your farm’s water is safe, compliant and sustainable. In this episode of Farmer’s Inside Track, Dirk Moolman , a leading hydrogeologist, explores what farmers need to know about water testing and borehole management. From understanding when you need a water use license to the tools required for testing pH, electrical conductivity, and dissolved oxygen, Moolman shares advi...

Born and raised in the heart of the Swartland, Edmund Terblanche is a passionate winemaker now crafting exceptional wines at La Motte Wine Estate.   After completing his agricultural studies at Stellenbosch University and a diploma in cellar technology at Elsenburg Agricultural College, Edmund honed his skills through international experience in France. As chairman of South Africa’s Shiraz As...

In this episode, we delve into the value of drip irrigation for small-scale crop farmers and explore how this innovative solution can transform their farming practices.  Martin Bahnemann, Netafim’s business developer for small-scale farming in South Africa and the SADC region, guides us through the benefits of drip irrigation. He also shares essential agronomic and maintenance principles and...

Tune in to learn how an innovative collaboration between AECI Plant Health and Khula is providing new-era farmers with cutting-edge solutions, expanding their market reach, and promoting sustainable farming practices. Jannie Willemse , business development manager for AECI Plant Health, joins us to discuss their strategic alliance with the agri-tech company Khula.

The medicinal cannabis industry in South Africa has been evolving rapidly over the past few years, driven by legislative changes, increasing local and international demand, and investment interest. In this episode, Alec Yardley speaks about cannabis cultivation.