Agri budget met with mixed reactions
The development of traditional agricultural areas, previously known as reserves, will be a key priority during the coming financial year, according to Minister Thoko Didiza of the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development. Didiza made the announcement during her budget speech, which was delivered on 9 May.
Nampo survival guide
If this year marks your first agricultural pilgrimage to Nampo Harvest Day, read the following tips to ensure that you have an enjoyable experience.
Free State faces a difficult 2023 veld fire season
The 2023 veld fire season could potentially develop into one of the most problematic fire seasons in recent memory. According to a statement issued by the Free State Umbrella Fire Protection Association (FSUFPA), one of the reasons for this was the abundant rain during the past three summers that resulted in a very high moribund biomass fuel load.
Commodity downturn could spur farm sales
Farmers in the Lowveld are facing severe pressure as commodity prices for subtropical crops dip while input costs rise rapidly.
Favourable outlook for summer and winter field crops
Farmers intend to plant 542 600ha of wheat in the 2023 production season, 4% less than last season’s 566 800ha, according to the latest report by the Crop Estimates Committee.
‘Government is failing SA’s agri sector’ – Agbiz
While the South African government was supposed to be the agriculture sector’s most important partner, it had failed in taking up its responsibility and had left the sector and the country as a whole despondent. This was according to Francois Strydom, chairperson of Agbiz.
Dragon fruit yields and sales on an upward curve
Increasing yields and rising local demand have resulted in a good season for dragon fruit farmers. Harvest started in November and will wrap up by May.
Intensive livestock production under threat as Eskom tariff hike bites
The Eskom tariff increase of 18,5%, which kicked in at the start of April, is driving up the cost of intensive layer, broiler and pork production, and making it increasingly difficult for these farmers to remain commercially viable.
Free State MEC promises ‘millions’ to ramp up cannabis production
There is hope that a new focus on cannabis production in the Free State will boost job creation and economic activity in the province.
Vaccinate animals against lumpy skin disease, farmers warned
Lumpy skin disease has been reported in all provinces since the start of the year, with communal farmers in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal being most affected, according to Dr Danie Odendaal, director of the Veterinarian Network.
Increasing inflation sparks fear of recession
The ongoing increase in food prices has raised concern over South Africa’s growth outlook, as inflation adds to a basket of factors sending the country towards a recession.
‘Pesticide-reduction laws will increase resistance’
The global streamlining of chemicals allowed on food products will render many crop-protection chemicals illegal by 1 June 2024, heightening risk for farmers already battling pests.
