Farmer's Inside Track

In this episode we focus on the role of honeybees, particularly the unique Cape honeybee, in sustaining South Africa’s agriculture and ecosystems. Host Dawn Noemdoe leads a conversation with two honeybee experts: Chris Nicklan , chairperson of the Western Cape Bee Industry Association , and Mike Allsopp , Senior Researcher at the Agricultural Research Council . They discuss the alarming global dec...

South Africa’s cannabis industry is lighting up the horticultural landscape, offering immense potential for local farmers. In this episode of Farmers Inside Track, we explore the rapid growth of medicinal cannabis cultivation since its decriminalisation in 2019. According to Stuart Spooner, director at The Lamphouse,  the exclusive South African distributor of Fluence horticultural lighting p...

In this episode, we dig deep into the inspiring story behind Ubuntu Extra virgin olive oil , and its founder, Loyiso Manga . Driven by a passion to make high quality olive oil accessible to all South Africans, Loyiso set out on a journey to create a brand that is fresh, positive and grounded in the African values of community and sharing. For over two years, he faced the challenges of finding the...

Explore the transformative potential of genome-edited crops and their benefits for small-scale farmers. This discussion features industry experts Chantel Arendse, Plant Biotechnology Lead at CropLife South Africa , and Dr Hennie Groenewald , Executive Manager at Biosafety South Africa .   We investigate how innovative agricultural technologies can boost productivity, resilience, and sust...

In this episode, entomology expert Blessing Mphahlele, a PhD candidate at the University of Pretoria, shares vital insights for tomato farmers combating the Tuta absoluta pest. We discuss the pest's origins, its impact on South African tomato crops, and the importance of integrated pest management (IPM). Blessing explains why avoiding the overuse of insecticides is critical to prevent resistance a...

In this episode, we speak with Muhammad Ghoor , founder of the Meatcart , a Johannesburg-based butcher.   Ghoor shares his expertise on the requirements for producing and marketing halal-certified meat. He provides practical advice for farmers on navigating the halal certification process, meeting abattoir standards, and ensuring traceability.   Ideal for farmers interested in supplying...

In this episode of Farmers Inside Track , Dr Josef van Wyngaard, Technical Manager at Voermol Feeds , joins North West’s young livestock farmer Thabo Dithakgwe . Farming 790 hectares near the Kalahari Desert, Thabo shares his journey toward becoming one of South Africa's youngest black stud breeders, raising high-value Bonsmara bulls.   Discover how Voermol Maxiwol and Phosphate Block help ke...

Good quality irrigation water is crucial for the health of your crops and the longevity of irrigation equipment. In this episode, Dexter Neethling , product manager at Netafim South Africa , talks about declining water quality and the vital role of filtration and standards in agricultural irrigation. He also shares information on how water quality is classified and its impact on filter selection,...

In today's agricultural landscape, precision, efficiency, and sustainability are more crucial than ever. With rising input costs, narrowing profit margins, and increasing food demand, farmers must utilise the right tools and technologies to succeed. However, when it comes to irrigation equipment, how do you know you've chosen the best tools for the job? In this episode of Farmer's Inside Track, we...

Since its inception in 2022, Tri Toad Nursery has been a game changer in the commercial seedling and plant industry. Under the inspiring leadership of Sheena Paulus, this women-owned business based in Philippi, Cape Town, has rapidly grown into a powerhouse. Specialising in vegetable, herb, and flower seedlings, Tri Toad Nursery supplies major retail garden centres like Stodels, Cape Gardens, and...

In this episode, we are joined by Tumelo Makgaka , CEO and founder of Leruo. Makgaka discusses how technology has become instrumental and accessible in aiding livestock farmers with herd management and market access. He highlights the benefits of using the facial recognition technology on Leruo for record keeping, marketing, health management and traceability .

As energy costs soar, farmers are feeling the pressure to find sustainable solutions that keep their operations profitable. In this episode, we break down the Land Bank’s Agro-Energy Fund —a powerful blended finance option designed to help farmers access alternative energy sources. Craig Harrison , the Provincial Head of Land Bank in the Western Cape , joins us to guide listeners through each step...

In this special episode, we sit down with Chester Fisch , the newly crowned winner of Agri’s Got Talent 2024 , as he takes us behind the scenes of his incredible journey to the top. From performing Michael Jackson’s “The Way You Make Me Feel” to a heartfelt rendition of Sam Cooke’s “A Change is Gonna Come,” Chester opens up about his song choices and the messages he hopes to inspire within South A...

In this insightful episode, we speak with Khomotso Mashiloane , Livestock Technical Advisor for the Red Meat Industry Services. Mashiloane offers valuable advice and information tailored for farmers aiming to optimise their approach to marketing cattle. His expertise serves as a practical guide for producers navigating the complexities of the red meat industry.

In this special episode, we catch up with five incredible contestants from the 2024 Agri’s Got Talent competition: Arno du Toit, Chanthel Boonzaaier, Sandile Mathebula, Franklin Hermanus and Bonginkosi Nkosi. Agri’s Got Talent, an annual event celebrating the hidden musical talents of South Africa’s agricultural workers, is not just a platform for vocal competition—it’s a development programme tha...

North West farmer, Ben Otukile’s solution for issues like poor condition and unexpected illnesses is Voermol Feeds. In this episode, he shares his customised feeding plan, a how it helps him ensure year-round health and optimal growth for his cattle and goats, even in tough conditions.   We'll also hear from Dr Josef van Wyngaard from Voermol Feeds, who provides a breakdown of the products us...

In this episode, we explore the booming global demand for ginger and its impact on agricultural economies worldwide. Join us as we sit down with Nozipho Puwana , an agricultural economist and founder of Agricultural Market Research Insights and Analyst . She shares her expert insights on the key drivers behind ginger’s growing popularity, the challenges faced by African producers, and the potentia...

In this special episode, we catch up with five incredible contestants from the 2024 Agri’s Got Talent competition: Chester Fisch, Lungelo Sithole, Davon Johnson, Arnaud Lamoër, and Ferencia Scheepers. Agri’s Got Talent , an annual event celebrating the hidden musical talents of South Africa’s agricultural workers, is not just a platform for vocal competition—it’s a development programme that empow...

Drawing on his extensive experience in farm management and his work as an agronomist and horticulturist, Tapiwa Masimba delves into the subject of crop protection. He examines the effectiveness and challenges of physical, chemical, and biological pest control methods, emphasising the significance of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for sustainable farming. Additionally, he addresses practical stra...

In this episode, we delve into the new regulations for agricultural remedies introduced in 2023, marking a significant shift for South Africa’s agricultural sector. CropLife South Africa’s regulatory manager, Roleen la Grange , and regulatory specialist, Anushka Gokul , unpack these changes. From stricter requirements for trials to global harmonisation standards, this episode explores the complexi...

In this episode, we delve into an essential topic for livestock farmers and animal health professionals: controlling tick-borne diseases, such as anaplasmosis in cattle, through pasture rotation. We are joined by Kenneth Malatji , an experienced animal health technician, and Dr Caryn Shacklock , a specialist in livestock epidemiology and Laboratory Manager, to discuss how pasture rotation can help...

In this episode, we delve into a game-changing opportunity for South African farmers – the Agro-Energy Fund. Craig Harrison , provincial head of Land Bank in the Western Cape, discusses how this government-backed initiative offers both grants and loans to help farmers transition to alternative energy sources like solar power. Designed to tackle the ongoing energy crisis, the fund empowers farmers...

Karen Swanepoel, the Executive Director of the Southern African Essential Oil Producer Association (SAEOPA ), explores the vibrant landscape of essential oils in South Africa. She delves into the key essential oils produced in the country and highlights how the industry has evolved over time. In this episode, Swanepoel offers valuable insights into the opportunities available for South African far...

South African farmers must comply with the Hazardous Substances Act of 1973 when using pesticides, especially Group 1 Category B products.   In this article, we explore the details of Group 1 Category A and Group 1 Category B hazardous substances, focusing specifically on agricultural remedies and how they are regulated under Act No. 15 of 1973.   Hiresh Ramanand , a stewardship speciali...

In this episode, we highlight the "Opportunities for Youth" initiative by ALL4YOUTH and Nestlé , exploring how it helps guide the youth in agriculture to make informed career decisions. We also introduce the launch of their Eguide, designed to support young professionals in the industry. Joining us are Comfort Tshisikule , youth and learning & development lead at Nestlé , and Masego More , CEO...