ProAgri B otswa n a /N am i b ia/Zim b ab w e
No 01
Free
Veld Goats oer strong genetics Second hand tractor: To buy or not to buy Botswana p 31
Namibia
p 38
Zimbabwe
p 42
Choose an industry leader www.agri4all.com
www.proagri.co.za
Letter from the Editor
Zimbabwe
Namibia
Botswana
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frica does not always make sense. A huge share of our food security depends on those invisible millions and millions of small farmers who work the land where there are very weak or no cell phone signals, where shops are far and wide apart, where disposable income is limited and where agricultural support, extension services and educational and informative material is virtually non-existent. These are also the people who fall through the cracks of global agricultural advancement and it is going to cost us as food consumers dearly in the long run. Someone has to look after the informational and technological well-being of these people who work non-stop to keep the rural areas stable and satiated. This is also true of the commercial farmers and enterprises who excel against all odds. In your hand or on your screen is the first ProAgri BNZ (Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe) issue. This is the fourth monthly freemium (free and premium)
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magazine in the ProAgri group, whose aim is to make agricultural knowledge available to the farmers of Africa. ProAgri South Africa has already been disseminating valuable information to farmers for 25 years, ProAgri Zambia is 4 years old and GROW, our online educational aid to emerging farmers, has also just seen the light. We believe that knowledge is one of the most important drivers of agriculture and we believe it should be free. We also believe that it should be easily accessible to those who need it most. Therefore, our distribution is geared to put a copy in the hands of even the most isolated farmer. We formed distribution partnerships with rural agro contact points such as livestock auctioneers and agro shops, where every farmer must call at least once a month to buy his inputs or sell his produce. We aim to cover the whole agricultural spectrum with different series and articles. Every month we shall also publish country-specific news and introduce new technology and products from our advertisers. Enjoy ProAgri BNZ! For the farmers who have cell phone coverage, please WhatsApp your name, surname, country, main agricultural activity and e-mail address to +27(0)84041-1722 in order to receive the magazine on WhatsApp or via e-mail. It will take less than 15 MB per issue. Farm smartly! Du Preez de Villiers dupreez@proagri.co.za
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Content 2. Reinke: The worldwide pivot of choice 5. A cattle breed you can count on: African farmers opt for Boran 6. Meet our heritage: Indigenous Veld Goats 9. Make Bonnox part of your farm-smart plan 10. How to handle your beef cattle. Part 1 12. AFGRI Equipment helps emerging and small-scale farmers to grow 14. Place fertiliser precisely with Valtrac and Bogballe 16. Soil, the farmer’s most important asset. Part 1 18. Guidelines for buying a used tractor 22. Spray to protect your crops. Part 1 26. Building an affordable round dam: Part 1 31. Botswana lifts ban on elephant hunting 35. Swakara: Turn pelts into profits. 38. Drought takes its toll: Namibia still suffers from seven lean years 40. ADMA shows the pride of agriculture in Zimbabwe 42. Zimbabwe hopes to revive economy with new currency 45. How to get started with aquaponics. Part 1
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Cover Africa has lots of water, but it is not always where we want it. A Reinke pivot irrigation system can place the exact quantity on your crops, when and where you want it. Turn to page 2 for more about the useful systems this international manufacturer has to offer.
ProAgri B ot s wa n a/N a m i b i a/Z i m b a b w e
202b Griselda Road Murrayfield, Pretoria +26 (0)12 803 0728 www.proagri.co.za Copyright Š 2019. All rights reserved. No material, text or photographs may be reproduced, copied or in any other way transmitted without the written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher or of the editor. We recognise all trademarks and logos as the sole property of their respective owners. ProAgri shall not be liable for any errors or for any actions in reliance thereon.
ProAgri Editor Du Preez de Villiers > +27 82-598-7329 dupreez@proagri.co.za Reporters Jaco Cilliers > +27 71-893-6477 jaco@proagri.co.za Benine Ackermann > +27 73-105-6938 benine@proagri.co.za Marketing Manager Diane Grobler > +27 82-555-6866 diane@proagri.co.za Marketing Xander Pieterse > +27 79-524-0934 xander@proagri.co.za Tiny Smith > +27 82-698-3353 tiny@proagri.co.za Anelda Strauss > +27 74-424-0055 anelda@proagri.co.za Johan Swartz > +27 71-599-9417 johan@proagri.co.za Gerhard Potgieter > +27 74-694-4422 gerhard@proagri.co.za Design Christiaan Joubert > christiaan@proagri.co.za Enquiries Engela Botha > +27 12-803-0782 engela@proagri.co.za Izel Zeelie > +27 12-803-0782 izel@proagri.co.za Accounts Ronel Schluter > +27 12-803-0782 accounts@proagri.co.za Distribution Janita du Plessis > +27 12-803-0782 janita@proagri.co.za Managing Editor Annemarie Bremner > +27 82-320-3642 annemarie@proagri.co.za Business Manager George Grobler > +27 83 460 0402 george@proagri.co.za
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Reinke Centre Pivot Irrigation Systems:
The worldwide pivot of choice
structure weighing as much as 20 percent less. The C-channel leg is a critical feature of every Reinke system. Patrick Ellis, Sales Director for Reinke Africa, says: “We’re so confident in its design, strength and mass that we dare you to compare it to the double angle iron used in competitive systems. That is why we are able to eliminate cross-bracing between the tower legs and why our single-leg towers always stand superior.” Also, unlike the competitors' T-gasket that is sandwiched between two flanges, the Reinke V-ring seal creates stronger flange-to-flange contact (instead of flange-plastic-flange) and combines the strength of two connected steel flanges (instead of interrupting the strength of steel with a plastic T-gasket). Plus, connected flanges won’t sag or settle and create potential weak spots that might necessitate future repairs. Reinke’s exclusive double-walled tower box provides a moisture-free environment for electrical components; it is the last place you’ll ever find condensation. Its high quality, UV-resistant materials and unique design make for the strongest, longestlasting tower box in the industry. Finally, thanks to a mechanical safety interlock, no one can remove the cover without first disconnecting power to the tower. The most efficient place to rotate within a cylinder is directly in the centre, which is exactly where Reinke placed their hook-and-receiver joint. It enables maximum flexibility across challenging terrain. Even when the span needs to roll slightly, it won’t affect alignment. Plus, the internal joint allows the boot to flex without being excessively stretched, furthering longevity.
Reinke pivots perform better, because they are built better.
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n 1968 Reinke changed centre pivot irrigation with the introduction of the Reinke centre pivot. Reinke called their centre pivot the Electrogator. The Electrogator was the first reversible, electric drive pivot with a collector ring allowing for continuous rotation. The Electrogator was also the first pivot with spans of more than 30 metres in length, the first with the Reinke patented V-jack truss design and the first to use interchangeable pipe and truss components. Today, Reinke is still the industry leader. The high-strength steel that goes into Reinke pivots and lateral movement irrigation systems can be as much as 50 percent stronger than steel used in competing irrigation systems. The result is a high-strength 2
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A Reinke system is complete when it is galvanised by ReinCoat, a subsidiary of Reinke that boasts a stateof-the-art galvanising facility and process. This includes pre-treatment of system components in a self-enclosed pre-treatment room that prepares the components for dipping into the zinc-filled kettle contained in a white fume enclosure. The end result of the galvanising process from ReinCoat is a superior protective coating that is ready to stand up to the elements and add further strength to a Reinke irrigation system. Reinke Precision Management (RPM) control panels are custom-built to give you reliability and trouble-free use. Plus, if your needs change over time, upgrades and customisations are easy, thanks to compatibility between RPM systems.
Built for growers and producers worldwide, ReinCloud™ Ag-Data Services is an online software package that helps you to combine field and irrigation data into one easy-to-use dashboard. Whether it may be irrigation monitoring and control, soil moisture or weather data you are looking for, ReinCloud is easy to use, informative and ready to put your ag-based data to work. Patrick says: “Since 1968, being ‘different with purpose’ has been at the core of all Reinke irrigation systems, which is why we have been the irrigation system of choice for farmers worldwide. We all know our pivots look different, but there is a reason behind every design choice; to add strength without adding weight and to increase efficiency without sacrificing durability. Not to boast, but that’s just what we do. And from pivot centre to end gun, we’ve created a machine that will perform to exceed your expectations.” Armed with a truckload of experience, expertise and extensive factory training, your Reinke dealer will work with you in everything from custom design, to installation, to making sure your irrigation system performs as expected year after year after year. “Like our pivots, your Reinke dealer is in it for the long haul. They’ll settle for nothing less than superior irrigation performance and will always be available for unparalleled service and support,” says Patrick.
Find your nearest dealer on www.reinke.com, or contact Patrick Ellis, Sales Director in Africa on +31-350-4525 or patrickellis@reinke.com. In Zimbabwe, please contact Graeme Flower from Lomag Irrigation at +263-77-223-5503 or graeme@lomagagric.com. ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 01
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A cattle breed you can count on:
African farmers opt for Boran T
he Boran is a pure African breed dating back 1 300 years and unrelated to any other African or European cattle breed. The genetic composition of the Boran is unique, making it your best choice for cross-breeding: European Bos Taurus Bos Indicus African Bos Taurus
24% 64% 12%
Boran cows have very good udders with well-formed teats and are exceptional at raising calves off the veld to comfortably wean at 50% of their body weight. The calves are small for easy calving, and hardy from birth. Boran cows have
good mothering instincts which include protecting their calves from predators. The cows are extremely fertile, and even under harsh conditions, Boran cows will continue to breed and rear their calves. Borans have thick, loose skins with short, shiny hair. This makes them a less desirable host for ticks and flies. The skin, thick eye banks with very long eyelashes and a long tail with a big, wellformed switch, help to protect this indigenous breed against insects. Through natural selection, they became highly resistant to the effects of internal parasites and external parasites like ticks. The Boran is a non-selective browser and grazer, with a rumen and metabolism
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that can handle poor roughage. As a result, they are adaptable, keep their condition, and are extremely productive in all veld types. The herd instinct makes it easy to manage them in bush environments. They respond quickly after the first rains and can be successfully fattened off the veld. The Boran is an early maturing Bos Indicus breed with a docile temperament and renowned longevity (15-year old productive cows are not uncommon). Boran cattle are recognised as being generally quiet, docile and easy to handle. They have exceptional cross-breeding capabilities and can add hybrid and complementary vigour to your herd’s progeny.
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Meet our heritage:
Indigenous Veld Goats Article provided by the Indigenous Veld Goat Breeders Society
The Indigenous Veld Goats of Southern Africa almost disappeared with the development of the Boer Goat and the Mohair industry. Today, a renewed interest is experienced for the disease-resistant and hardy indigenous goats that are not only our unique heritage, but can also play an increasing part in maintaining societies in future.
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n this article we briefly discuss their origin, development and the different ecotypes. Epstein (1971) The Origin of the Domestic Animals of Africa – explained how the nomadic Northern African nations started migrating in 5 AD southwards through Africa with their cattle, sheep, goats and dogs. They moved down the sweltering hot Eastern coast into southern Africa. The coloured nations from around the equator, with their disease resistant stock, were also driven southwards by stronger nations, but they proceeded along the western coast into southern Africa. During the 20th century farmers in South Africa started “improving” the indigenous goats they acquired originally to open up thorn-bush country – these goats were called “boer (farm) goats”. This improvement was further helped on by a specific big, robust dapple-coloured male goat. With the selection for red heads, white bodies and well-muscled animals, a lot of the indigenous goat genetics was replaced and swallowed up by this “improvement”. Some of the attributes of Indigenous Veld Goats are summarised below: • The goats are naturally bred for functional efficiency; they move with ease and can walk long distances. • They are highly fertile from a young age, have a long breeding season, have non-seasonal breeding patterns and have a long productive lifespan. • Multi-coloured, roan (speckled / “skilder”), dappled (“apple”), or solid 6
coloured patterns occur; due to their different colourations, they are difficult to spot by predators. • They are antelope-like, with longer legs and slight cow hocks; and are able to cover large extensive areas. • They have excellent herding instincts to help protect themselves from predators and will even fight them off. • They are well-adapted to harsh environments all over Southern Africa; their hair coats can be slightly longer or shorter depending on the difference in climates; a down (cashmere) coat is found on some goats during winter for extra protection; they are also able to handle the humidity in the eastern parts of South Africa. • They have excellent pigmentation due to their dark skin and are highly heat and sunlight tolerant. • They are highly tick and parasite tolerant. • Their hides can be tanned for glove leather and tanned skins can be utilised whole or for various leather products. • They can either browse (around 60% of their diet) or graze (around 40% of their diet) on a wide variety of plants, shrubs and grasses and have the ability to select a higher quality diet should they have limited feeding time and to obtain nourishment from average quality forage. • Rams are masculine with prominent hair on the neck and shoulder. Testes are of functional size and shape, equal in size and situated near the body. • Ewes are feminine with long and slender necks, and they are very good mothers. They have well-developed udders with more than enough milk for twins and even triplets. Xhosa Lob Ear, Northern Cape Speckled and Nguni are the most prevalent Indigenous Veld Goat ecotypes in South Africa. Below are some distinctive characteristics of each of the ecotypes:
Nguni ram (top) and ewe (bottom) from IVG archives Eastern Cape Xhosa Lob Ears • multi colours • large frame, robust & well muscled • lob ears (big floppy hanging ears) • profile – flat to slightly convex, & rather strong • horns – up and outwards; large & heavy, inclined to be longer than the skull • legs – strong, medium to long Ewe from IVG archives.
Xhosa Lob Ear
Mbuzi’s (Nguni type) • multi-colours • small frame • compact but well proportioned • small to medium semi-pendulous ears • profile – concave (hollow) to flat • legs – strong but fine, medium to long
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Northern Cape Speckled Goats • speckled – dark red, brown and black, concentration of speckles varies • concentration of speckles on legs, pattern is true breeding but recessive • majority have a white blaze • large frame • lob ears (big floppy hanging ears) • profile – flat to convex; slight dip in front of eyes • horns – up and outwards; tips slightly curved in, inclined to be +/- same length of skull • legs – strong, medium to long
Northern Cape Speckled ram (top) and ewe (bottom) from IVG archives.
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Kunene (from the Kaokoland, Namibia) • multi-colours • medium frame and slender • lob ears (big floppy hanging ears) • profile – flat with narrow face • horns – straight and slightly up, with the base closely spaced • inclined to be 2/3 of the skull and in line with the profile • legs – finely boned, long and lanky Mbuzi’s are abundantly found in the hotter, wetter and more humid eastern parts of Eastern Cape, Transkei, KwaZulu Natal, Swaziland, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Mozambique, northern parts of Namibia and in the rest of Africa. Today Indigenous Veld Goats are found all over Southern Africa, and not only in their original, historical distribution areas. With farming input costs and veterinary costs escalating year on year, Indigenous Veld Goats can play a vital role in goat meat production, due to their hardiness, disease resistance and low maintenance requirements. These traits make Indigenous Veld Goats the ideal dam line for terminal crossbreeding with terminal sires that need more inputs in order to survive. The Indigenous Veld Goat ewes can be farmed extensively on the veld, while the terminal sires can be kept and looked after at home during the day, letting them in with the ewes to breed at night. Indigenous Veld Goat ewes can be described as cost-effective embryo factories with enough milk to raise their kids with minimal inputs. The hybrid vigour resulting from terminal crossbreeding leads to increased meat production and capacity, in conjunction with the lower input costs required for the Indigenous Veld Goat dams. It is part of the mission of the Society to encourage and promote the preservation of the breed characteristics of the Southern African eco-types, by good selection in terms of the accepted description of a pure Indigenous Veld Goat. The Society encourages healthy practices, sound animal stock breeding principles, and promotes a courteous, harmonious and productive responsibility amongst our members. The world-wide trend for super breeds threatens to wipe out thousands of indigenous breeds with their unique
Kunene ram (top) and ewe (bottom) from IVG archives. abilities to perform in harsh environments. Irreplaceable genetic resources are being lost in the process. Their loss is not just a matter of heritage; it's very much about our future. Dr Herbert Atkinson said in the 18th century about man always wanting to "develop" the animals around him:
"Please do not spoil, transform or improve them out of existence" For more information, contact the Indigenous Veld Goat Breeders Society at +27(0) 54-891-0058, indigenousveldgoats@gmail.com or www.indigenousveldgoats.co.za.
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A FIRST FOR SOUTH AFRICA!!!
KUDOS FOR BONNOX’S NEW 3METRE FENCE.
3m
WOW! Kudus can’t clear THIS fence!
2.44m
1.8m
1.2m
AVOID POOR IMITATIONS AND BUY DIRECTLY FROM THE ONLY BONNOX FACTORY, SITUATED IN SUNDERLAND RIDGE, CENTURION ONLY A BONNOX INVOICE SERVES AS A CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY.
zane@bonnox.co.za • gerda@bonnox.co.za • linda@bonnox.co.za
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+27 (0)12 6668717 8717 www.bonnox.co.za • 012 666
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Make Bonnox part of your farm-smart plan by Annemarie Bremner
been no trouble with predators such as jackal or lynx, and it helps to eliminate stock theft as well. He opted for the fully galvanised wire fence from Bonnox to ensure longevity in this region that receives a lot of rain at times. He wanted to make sure that rust will not become a problem. Initially, he used the posts that he had on the farm, but the fencing team quickly complained that the posts were not strong enough for the fence, so he went back to Bonnox for the correct posts for the job. He says: “I saw an advertisement and drove to them. They assisted me very well and recommended the correct product to suit my needs.” He was also very impressed with the fact that he received one roll of fencing for free for every ten rolls that he purchased. Hezekiel says he wished he could find a mentor who could teach him about all the other aspects of farming as thoroughly as Bonnox mentored him on fencing.
Hezekiel Malesa from Brits, SA, ensured the safety of his Boer goat and Kalahari-Red herds with Bonnox. The goats stay in and the thieves stay out!
“W
hen you touch the wire, you can feel the quality,” says Hezekiel Malesa from Brits in the Northern Province of South Africa. He fenced his 23-hectare farm with Bonnox as part of his long-term farming plan. “I invest a lot of money in my Boer goats and Kalahari-red herds and the fence should protect my investment for the next twenty years.” Hezekiel is a part-time farmer and practises as a lawyer in the city. He wants to ensure that his animals are safe, especially when he is not there during the week. He has one full-time employee who takes care of the 89 goats that must be fed, managed and moved between the different camps on the farm. All his fences are now 1,8-metre game fencing with smaller apertures at the bottom and bigger ones at the top. Not even the kids can break through or lift the fence to crawl underneath it. With normal fencing, the goats can push the wires apart to climb through. The vertical wire links in a Bonnox fence make this impossible. Hezekiel also claims that since they erected the Bonnox fence, there has ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 01
Just look at how sturdy the wire is, says Hezekiel Malesa – no goat can break through.
Hezekiel takes good care of his goats as they are his long-term investment.
Strong posts that are anchored correctly ensure strong fences. Soon the irrigation system will help to produce feed on the farm, and the camps are ready and waiting. “I grew up taking care of my grandfather’s indigenous goats near Phalaborwa. That meant that I had to take the goats to the fields and stay there with them while they were grazing. Nowadays goats have to be managed with the right genetics, feeds, and camps where the goats can graze or be fed.” Hezekiel has already installed an overhead irrigation system in certain camps where he plans to plant feed crops like lucerne or grazing crops, but he is waiting for the local council to approve his plans for a dam to store the water. “As soon as the dam is approved, I can clean the camps and start planting. But luckily my fences are already in place,” says Hezekiel. Make Bonnox part of your planning for your farm’s future. Contact Linda: +27 72-704-8764 Gerda: +27 81-865-4543 Zane: +27 76-169-9068 or +27 12-666-8717 or send an email to linda@bonnox.co.za, gerda@bonnox.co.za and zane@bonnox.co.za, or visit www.bonnox.co.za. 9
How to handle
your beef cattle Part 1: Understand your cattle
For successful beef production, certain facilities are necessary. These facilities must simplify the management of cattle and it must be functional and economical. The ARC Agricultural Engineering in South Africa has made their manual on handling facilities available to ProAgri BNZ so that our readers can benefit from their research and knowledge. www.proagri.co.za 10
ProAgri 11 – September 2016 18 ProAgri BNZ 01
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Equipment enables the emerging and small-scale agricultural market by Etienne Meyer, Marketing Manager AFGRI Equipment
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gricultural products and services company, AFGRI Equipment, has once again confirmed their commitment to the emerging markets in agriculture by bolstering their product offering to the market in Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana. The idea that Africa will soon be the breadbasket of the world has ignited a train of thought at AFGRI Equipment to deliberate on the task at hand, to equip the large number of small-scale and emerging farmers on our continent. Mechanising a modern farm to the point of being a commercial entity, demands a lot of financial resources and security. Availability of retail finance remains a key concern across the continent. AFGRI Equipment has subsequently decided to partner up with some of the best, robust and aff ordable equipment suppliers in the market. Some of the key factors in consideration are that equipment for the African market should always be well manufactured due to the tougher conditions we experience, generic parts availability to ensure maximum uptime, and cost of ownership should be aff ordable. AFGRI Equipment is committed to the growth of agriculture on the African continent. By enabling the evolution of farming practices from emerging farmers to commercial farmers, AFGRI Equipment believes in the possibilities that the future will bring, and in Africa as an agricultural keystone in food security.
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Backsaver equipment has recently added several award-winning products to their portfolio and is aimed at emerging farmers. Aff ordable equipment with an understanding of grower challenges has prompted the exceptional success of Backsaver equipment over the past 5 years, enabling emerging farmers to become small-scale farmers has been the goal and the results are simply fantastic. The product portfolio focuses on the planting and fertilisation processes. The hand planter increases efficiency in planting faster at uniform depths and inter row spacing. The hand planter is also ‘no-till’ capable, making it a sensible choice for all growers. Walk-behind or push planters are available for planting up to 10 ha with ease. Singulation of seed on these planters is extremely good and can be calibrated easily by changing sprockets. Push-type or animal drawn planters are available with or without fertiliser applicators as needed. Motorised planters are available for larger areas. Fertiliser applicators are available for post emergence and top dressing. The single shot fertiliser applicator is very easy to operate and uniform in the amount of fertiliser applied. With a simple twist on the control handle a predetermined quantity of fertiliser is dropped through the applicator pipe where it is needed. The fertiliser container can hold anything from 5 to 20 litres. The push-type fertiliser applicator uses tried and tested technology to deliver precise metering of fertiliser via a worm gear. With the speed and accuracy of BACKSAVER equipment, the emerging farmer will soon see large savings in fertiliser and seed, as well as an improvement in crop yield. For more information, contact the nearest AFGRI Equipment branch or visit www.afgriequipment.co.za.
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AFGRI is bringing much needed equipment to farmers in Africa.
With a variety of well-crafted equipment based on practical expertise, gained over years of involvement in agricultural sectors across the world and specifically on the African continent, their product portfolio is simply amazing. From primary to secondary tillage, grading, seeding, spraying and haulage equipment the quality of the products is evident. BERONI products come standard with a 12-month guarantee and aim to use generic parts wherever possible to drive down the cost of ownership in the long term. Extensive testing and demonstrations have already kicked off in Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zambia. Client feedback has been received as a monumental success. Some of the popular products in the line-up include the disc plough available in 2 to 5-disc specification, disc harrows from medium to heavy duty,
rippers and trailers from 3 to 10 tonne capacity. Some of the products to watch out for in the range are the highspeed disc harrow, heavy duty subsoiler, multi-row tiller, disc ridger and a wide variety of rotary tillers. Growers looking for the best in terms of affordability and quality can contact their nearest AFGRI Equipment branch or visit www.afgriequipment.co.za. Products can also be viewed at www.beroni.in. Zimbabwe Graeme Bennett +263 77-223-5545 graeme@afgri.co.zw Botswana Arthur Bezuidenhout +267-311-0876 arthur.bezuidenhout@afgri.co.za
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Place fertiliser precisely with Bogballe by Du Preez de Villiers Leonie and Matt Flanagan of the Oribi Plain solved all their fertiliser spreading problems when they acquired their Bogballe L2W Plus fertiliser spreader from Valtrac. They can also use it to spread lime.
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dramatic increase in working speed and efficiency is what you can expect when you use Bogballe and Valtrac to spread fertiliser. This fact was proven the past two years by four of Valtrac’s Bogballe L2W Plus fertiliser spreaders active on the Oribi Plain. The Oribi Plain is a small, but very fertile agricultural belt 35 kilometres from Port Shepstone in KwaZulu-Natal, SA. Matt Flanagan of the farm, Ballymena, explains why the implement is so popular amongst farmers: “Previously, we used a disc spreader that kept us busy for two weeks, but unfortunately this spreader was destroyed in a fire. As I am very interested in precision farming, field mapping and GPS applications, I decided to look for something more. Matt’s other challenge was to apply fertiliser to his sugar cane, macadamia nuts and teatree oil plantations alike with his new spreader. His local Valtrac agent, Bryan Taylor of MF Tractor Parts in Port Shepstone, suggested the Bogballe, but the name sounded strange and outlandish, and Matt was not interested at first. Fortunately, he then did some homework to find that the brand originated from Denmark. Furthermore, he learned that Bogballe is regarded as one of the foremost fertiliser spreader manufacturers in the world today. “We looked at all the various sizes offered by Valtrac, and initially invited them to come and demonstrate the smallest one on our farm,” Matt said. “It was a very nice machine, but I wanted functions such as section control, landend control and automatic calibration to fully enter the age of precision farming.” The day when the L2W Plus was demonstrated on his farm, he knew... Matt’s work speed and efficiency immediately increased dramatically. His previous spreader covered 16 14
metres against the Bogballe’s 24 metres. That means the band covered is now 50% wider. “With my previous spreader, I had to spend two weeks in the fields and orchards, but now I complete the whole job in only two days.” This increased work tempo enables Matt to apply less fertiliser more often, in two or three sessions, thereby decreasing the risk of fertiliser washing away and increasing the effective period of nutrition. This practice increased his yield with 5 to 10%. Matt can now single-handedly spread fertiliser on his whole farm if necessary. “I now order bulk bags and lift them with the TLB to fill the Bogballe spreader. As fertiliser is my main expense, I do all the spreading myself,” he says. Half of Ballymena is used for sugar cane production, and the rest is planted with macadamia nuts and teatrees ... and the Bogballe applies fertiliser to all the crops promptly and perfectly. On his sugar cane and teatrees, Matt can spread the full width of 24 metres, and even make roads every 24 metres
A Bogballe fertiliser spreader is versatile enough to work with a wide variety of third party monitors. between the teatrees so as not to compact the soil in other places. The macadamia rows are nine metres apart. For them Matt adjusts the Bogballe to its minimum spreading width of ten metres to place fertiliser up to just behind every tree. Matt’s Valtrac dealer designed a screen that bolts onto the sides of the spreading discs to apply all the fertiliser only to the area under the trees where it should go, and not onto the road. The advanced weighing cells of the Bogballe L2W Plus constantly calibrates the spreader and continuously adapt the quantity of fertiliser spread, even when the tractor accelerates or slows down. “Another vital bonus is that the weighing cells, section control and GPS function allow me to apply fertiliser exactly according to the previous year’s maps.” The horizontal sections of the hopper can also be replaced or increased to increase the volume of the spreader. This success story quickly spread in the area, and today three other farmers of the region also enjoy the benefits of accurate fertiliser placement with their own Bogballe L2W Plus spreaders. Matt says: “We have found a machine that makes our lives simpler, and makes us work quicker and more accurate.”
Promech is the distributor in Zimbabwe
The grid and cone inside the fertiliser hopper protect the delicate agitators to work gently with the fertiliser in order to prevent pulverisation.
Call Attie de Villiers on (+27)083-261- 9863 or (+27)056-817-8006 or send an e-mail to attiedev@valtrac.co.za to take full control over your fertiliser placement. Also visit the Valtrac website at www.valtrac.co.za. In Zimbabwe you can contact Graeme Flower at +2637 7223 5503 or graeme@lomagagric.co or Jacques van den Bergh at +2637 7304 0794 or jacques@lomagagric.co.za. ProAgri BNZ 01
Soil:
The farmer’s most important asset Part 1: The composition of soil Martiens du Plessis, Soil Scientist, NWK Limited & Prof Cornie van Huyssteen, Lecturer: Soil Science, University of the Free State
Soil is the most fundamental resource for the farmer, without which food and natural fibre cannot be produced. Furthermore, it is often also the most expensive single capital asset of the farmer. Soil is also a scarce resource, the availability of which on earth, is limited. In order to be What is soil? Generally, soil is regarded by the agriculturalist as the unconsolidated material which forms the upper-most layer of the hard earth crust and which maintains plant growth. This layer of soil varies in depth, from insignificant where solid rock occurs at the earth’s surface, to several metres deep. What does soil comprise of? The main components of soil are the minerals, air, water and organic fractions. These four components are integrated and occur in different ratios in the soil. The composition of each of the components varies from place to place. The variation in the ratio between the components and the variProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 01
able to utilise any resource productively, it is necessary that the soil user has a working knowledge of that resource. This series aims at providing the soil user with a basic knowledge of the soil as a resource. This introductory article focuses on the composition of soil.
ation of the components themselves, largely influence the properties of the soil and therefore also the ability of the soil to sustain plant growth and thus eventually the productivity of the soil. The mineral fraction The mineral fraction comprises of about 50% of the soil volume and is made up of rocks that have been weathered down to fine fragments by a variety of processes. Various rocks have various mineralogical compositions and therefore weather into different soil types. Because geological matter varies from place to place, one can therefore expect that soils formed in situ (in the same place) from the parent material, will bear a strong
resemblance to the parent material. Therefore, soils formed from shale are clayey, while soils formed from sandstone are sandy. Not all soils have been formed in situ from the original parent material, but could also be formed from parent material, transported from another place by wind, water, glaciers or gravity (down slopes). Examples of transported soils are the wind-blown (Aeolian) sands from the Kalahari and the soils on the flood plains of rivers (alluvial soils). Various new minerals can crystallise in the soil during the weathering of the parent material. The most important amongst these are clays or other secondary minerals. 15
Particle size distribution The mineral fraction can comprise particles of various sizes. Particles larger than 2 mm in diameter are classified as gravel or rock fragments and are not regarded as soil. It is therefore the fraction that can pass through a 2 mm sieve, which is regarded as soil. Sand varies in size from 2 mm to 0,05 mm and that of silt between 0,05 mm and 0,002 mm. The fraction smaller than 0,002 mm is regarded as clay. The sand fraction The sand fraction usually consists of hard minerals that originally came from larger crystals which were part of the parent material and physically weathered (broke off), splintered, crumbled and were reduced in size. Of these, quartz is the most common example, due to the hardness thereof. Another hard material that chemically weathers and often forms part of the sand fraction is feldspar, which is plentiful in granite. Soft minerals and those that are chemically reactive, weather away quickly and therefore do not usually form part of the sand fraction.
Air 25%
The silt fraction The silt fraction is usually mineralogically the same as that of the sand fraction and therefore consists of sand which has simply weathered further physically to particles smaller than 0,05 mm in diameter. The clay fraction The mineralogical composition of the clay fraction can be widely divergent, as it can crystallise in situ, or it can be transported. Because clay particles are so small, they have special characteristics and they contribute the most towards the physical and chemical properties of the soil. Articles following in this series will focus specifically on the clay fraction. The pore volume The pore volume comprises the openings between the solid particles and makes up about 50% of the soil volume. This fraction is also known as the porosity of the soil. The pores are filled with air and/or water. As can be expected, some of these pores are larger and others smaller. The size of the pores has a major influence on a
Organic material 1% Mineral parts 49%
Water 25%
The ideal composition of soil.
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number of the physical properties of the soil. For example, sandy soil usually has a low pore volume, but with larger individual pores than in clay soil. The taller usually has a larger pore volume, with smaller individual pores. When a drained loam soil is at field water capacity, the pores are about half filled with water and half with air. Clayey soils hold more water than sandy soils at field water capacity. Deeper soil layers are often more compact and therefore have a lower porosity. Frequently more than half of this pore volume is filled with water and these layers are regarded as “waterlogged”. The organic fraction The organic material content of the vast majority of soils in Southern Africa is less than 5%, with the majority of arable soils less than 1%. The organic material in soil consists of dead plant material, soil microbes, remains of animal origin, and excretions of animals. The organic material
is broken down (humified) in the soil to simple organic compounds which, in turn, are restructured into humus. This humus is reasonably resistant to degradation and gives the upper layer of soil its darker colour. Summary Soil is a very complex composition of mineral particles, air, water and organic material. This composition has a major influence on plant growth and therefore the study field of soil science is essential for sustainable production of food and fibre. Follow-up articles will examine in greater depth the various soil properties. The next article will carry more information on the influence of the various rock formations on soil properties. ProAgri BNZ acknowledges Grain SA for the use of this series which originally appeared in Afrikaans in SA Graan/Grain.
REFERENCES The following references were used extensively during the compilation of this series of articles. 1. 2. 3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
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Brady, N.C. and Weil, R.R. 1996. The nature and properties of soils. Prentice Hall, New Jersey. Foth, H.D. 1990. Fundamentals of soil science. John Wiley & Sons, New York. Le Roux, P.A.L., Ellis, F., Merryweather, F.R., Schoeman,J.L., Snyman, K., van Deventer, P.W. and Verster, E., 1999. Guidelines for the mapping and interpretation of the soils of South Africa. Singer, M.J. and Munns, D.N. 1987. Soils an introduction. Macmillian Publishing Company, New York. Soil Classification Working Group, 1991. Soil Classification – A tacsonomic system for SouthAfrica. Mem. agric. nat. resour. S. Afr. No. 15. IGKW, Pretoria. Sopher, C.D. and Baird, J.V. 1978. Soils and soil management. Reston Publishing Company Inc., Reston. Van Huyssteen, C.W. 2009. Soil ecology. Unpublished class notes for GKD214. University of the Free State, Bloemfontein. White, R.E. 1979. Introduction to the principles and practice of soil science. Blackwell Scientific Publications, Oxford. Winegardner, D.L. 1996. An introduction to soils for environmental professionals. Lewis publishers, New York. 17
Guidelines for buying a used tractor by RF Bartels and GJ Stoltz
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he escalating cost of purchasing new tractors forces many farmers to consider the purchase of used tractors. Many dangers need to be overcome to ensure that a tractor is purchased that can provide reliable and long-lasting service. The old adage “let the buyer beware” (caveat emptor), is as appropriate today as in the time of the Romans. We thank the ARC Agricultural Engineering in South Africa for making this article available to the readers of ProAgri BNZ. The onus rests on the buyer to determine the soundness of the purchase. Before considering the purchase of a used tractor, determine your needs and budget, then study the prices of used tractors (the agricultural press and dealers can give you a good indication). You need to know the type and size of the tractor that you require. It is important to establish beforehand the spare parts and service infrastructure available in your area for the particular tractor that you are considering. Generally, with older models, the more popular the tractor, the easier it is to obtain spare parts. Assess the seller Buy from a reputable farm machinery dealer or a trusted friend. The buyer must first assess the seller. The buyer has two options, namely: • Either buy from a reputable farm machinery dealer or a trusted friend, or • Trust your own judgement and buy from other farmers, auctions or other sources. 18
The first option is highly recommended for the inexperienced buyer. A dealer who prides himself on his reputation will offer a guarantee, as well as pre-sale and/or post-sale servicing. Likewise, a friend will give a reliable account of the problems and history of the tractor. Assess the tractor It is important to determine the tractor’s age, model and hours of use. Ascertain whether the claimed hours of use of the tractor and the type of work the tractor has been doing relate to the visible wear. Is the tractor sufficiently reliable and affordable, considering the
expected costs of repairs and maintenance? The following guidelines can be used to determine the reliability of the tractor: Overall visual impression: The overall looks of a tractor can give a good indication of how well the tractor has been cared for. Look out for: • Clues to overdue repair work; • Sloppy maintenance and repairs (for example rags, pieces of wire that indicate a poor attitude to maintenance); and • Signs of outdoor storage (for example perished rubber or plastic components, faded paintwork).
What does your gut feeling tell you when assessing the tractor's exterior?
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Lubricants: Take advantage of your sense of touch. Lubricants, in particular, collect dirt and metal chips and retain them, making it easy to detect extreme neglect. It is sometimes hard to determine if components have been properly lubricated. A build-up of grease in an area is not necessarily an indication that a joint or a bearing has adequate grease where it’s needed. Shiny, tacky, clean grease should be revealed when the greased fitting is removed. If the grease well looks dry or the grease is lumpy, the unit hasn’t been greased properly. If a component is loose and can be wiggled, excessive wear has occurred.
cap indicate that exhaust gases or oil may be leaking into the coolant system (a possible cause may be a head gasket or water jacket leak in the block). Discoloured or flaking paint in the area of the cap indicates that the engine may have overheated (a possible cause can be coolant loss, a plugged thermostat or plugged radiator, collapsed hose, faulty water or major head gasket). Look inside the radiator for corrosion. Severe corrosion inside the radiator means the radiator may need to be replaced. Inspect the radiator for damaged fins and repairs. Stains along the fins usually indicate a leak. While the radiator is cool, squeeze the radiator hoses to see if they are brittle and cracked. Oil: A healthy engine will have no water in its oil. In both diesel and petrol engines, creamy white droplets or accumulations near the top of the dipstick indicate a water-oil emulsion. Water could have come from a leaky coolant system, outdoor storage or vapour from combustion of fuel accumulating in the oil sump. Valve guide or piston ring wear can lead to large amounts of blow-by vapours showing up as water in the oil sump. Also, check the crankcase breather tube outlet for caked oil or an obvious flow of exhaust gases, which signal that piston rings may be worn. If time permits, take hydraulic oil and engine oil samples by tapping off
Does the machine pull left or right? Brakes and clutches: Depress the left and right brakes independently. If the movement is not similar, the brakes may need some attention. With the engine running at a high idle, both brakes locked together and the transmission in a mid-range gear, gently feather-out the clutch while depressing the brakes. This will check the clutch, the brakes and the responsiveness of the engine governor. The governor should smoothly increase engine speed as the engine struggles to move the machine forward. You should be able to stall, or nearly stall, the engine with the brakes. Is the clutch engagement smooth and positive, or does it seem to slip? Slippage indicates that adjustment or repair may be necessary. Does the machine pull left or right (a possible cause can be poorly adjusted or faulty brakes)? On mechanical clutches which are not hydraulically assisted, sometimes a pending clutch problem can be detected by manually disengaging the clutch pedal. With the brakes set, transmission in neutral and the engine running, slowly depress the clutch to feel for smooth movement in the linkage. Once the pedal is down, listen and feel for a noise from clutch release bearing. If you feel vibrations or if the clutch pedal movement is rough, there’s a good chance the clutch needs to be overhauled. Although the release bearing replacement appears simple,
Water in the tractor oil is a big no-no. Photo: youtube.com How does the grease look? Photo: uncityslicker.com Seals and bearings: A simple way to see if wheel bearings are improperly seated or worn, is to bump the tire with your knee. Even the slightest clunk indicates a possible problem. On engines, a bad front or rear main bearing oil seal can cause a loss of oil and indicates the age of the machine. Look for oil spots on the ground near the machinery, then look underneath the engine, both in the front and the rear of the oil pan. If you see scattered fresh oil, the seals are probably worn out. If the seals are bad, the crankshaft bearings may also be worn, because they too have been in the engine since it was new. The installation of new seals and bearings can be expensive. Coolant: While the engine is cold, inspect the radiator filling area of a water-cooled tractor. Creamy white deposits on the
the bottom of the bottom reservoir. It’s messy, but it allows you to look for water, which will exit first. A few drops of water can be tolerated and is no cause for alarm. Thick, gooey sludge is an indicator of poor maintenance. If metal chips are present or the oil has a silver-grey sheen, move on to the next machine for sale.
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it often entails splitting the tractor. Once you’ve gone that far, it’s best to replace the clutch disc, the pressure plate, et cetera. In short, it could cost you more than the tractor is worth. Engine and battery: Test whether the engine starts easily to determine the power output of 19
old and stained. Hydraulic systems: Clean and covered hydraulic joints are a good sign. Open, dirty joints are often a sign that dirt or water has entered the system. Rusty locking pins indicate that the joints have been exposed to weather conditions. To check the hydraulic system, hitch a heavy implement to the tractor. Look out for the following: • Use the hydraulic system to lift and lower the implement – it should be a smooth process. • Lift the implement and shut off the engine. The implement should remain in position. If the implement starts to drop, it is an indication of a problem with the hydraulic system.
A tractor should carry on straight when you take your hands off the steering. the battery. Allow the engine to idle and listen for any lashing or rumbling noises. Make sure that the paint on the major gasket is the original coat. If the oil and dirt marks above the major gasket vary, it may mean that the cylinder head packing had recently been replaced. A new packing is, however,
not an indication of any major problems in the engine, but it is advisable to enquire from the seller why the head was removed. Some owners remove the heads, but unknowingly re-use the packing – be on the look-out for marks that show the head has been removed while the sides of the packing still look
Air filters: In dry air filtration systems, remove the filter element from the canister. Look for a dusty spot along the flexible gasket where the element has been bent or improperly seated in the canister. This indicates that dust has found a path to bypass the filter to enter the engine and cause unnecessary wear. Crumpled filter elements seal poorly at the gasket area and may be fractured, which may cause leaking where the pleats are glued to the end caps. Dust unloader valves collect and
An implement raised by the lift should remain raised when the tractor engine is switched off. 20
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store dirt which settles from dry air filter elements. If the rubber is dried, cracked or torn, a vacuum created by the engine can pull air and dust into the flow valve, bypassing the dirty flow path designed into the filtration system. Excessive dirt accumulates in the localised areas of the filter, causing restrictions and clogged elements. Power steering: If the tractor has power steering, with the engine running, rock the steering wheel left and right. Front wheels should begin to move smoothly with relief valve squeal. Rough front wheel movement might indicate bent hydraulic cylinder rods, worn or seized knuckle joints due to lack of lubrication, or a low hydraulic fluid level. With manual steering, hand movement greater than a few inches left or right before front wheels react, may indicate a worn steering gear (backlash) or worn pivot points in the linkages. Restricted steering wheel movement may indicate bent or twisted linkages or control arms, or poorly lubricated or binding joints. Even experts are fooled by exhaust systems.
Exhaust smoke: Run the engine and examine the exhaust smoke. At a constant engine speed, black smoke may mean improper fuel, a faulty fuel injection system, incorrect engine timing or, in the case of petrol engines, an improperly adjusted carburetor. White smoke at constant engine speed could be due to a low engine temperature because the tractor was not warmed up or has a faulty thermostat, incorrect engine timing or a coolant leak into the combustion chamber. Even experts are fooled by exhaust systems. Generally, continuous black smoke in diesel engines is an injection pump/injector related problem. If the white smoke persists, allow the radiator to cool and remove the radiator cap. Then, while the engine is running again, check for gas bubbles which may indicate a coolant leak. It is possible to buy a good used tractor. However, the onus rests on the buyer to ensure that the machine is in good order. Be aware of sales talk and don’t buy a tractor on the spur of the moment. It can cost you much more than you thought. Rather shop around until you find a tractor of quality.
Photo: youtube.com
Published with acknowledgement to the ARC-Agricultural Engineering for the use of their articles and manuals. Visit www.arc. agric.za for more information. REFERENCES: Garthe, JW, Murphy, DJ & Water, WK. Used Farm Equipment. Notheats Regional University 152 Riley-Robb Hall, Ithaca, New York 14835. Hittersay, P. Used Tractor Trading. Unpublished paper presented at the South African Society for Agricultural Mechanisation, 1995.
Black smoke can mean a lot of things. Photo: youtube.com
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Spray to protect your crops Part 1: The principles of spraying Compiled by J Fuls (Pr Eng)
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A knapsack sprayer is used in conjunction with a mobile spray box to prevent loss through wind blow.
Profit margins for farming are tight, and no farmer can afford to share his crops or inputs with pests or weeds. Therefore, farmers have to apply pesticides and herbicides to protect their valuable plants. Chemical control of weeds and pests can be easy, effective and profitable if the right equipment and techniques are employed. In order to help farmers and emerging farmers to get the most out of chemical control, ProAgri BNZ plans to publish
a series of articles on the basic principles of sprayers and spraying techniques, starting right here and now. We thank the ARC-Institute for Agricultural Engineering, who made this series available.
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eeds compete with desirable plants for food and water, while insects, mites, worms and other invisible pests like fungi and microbes damage plants. Spraying is a method used on large scale for direct control of weeds and pests. In these methods, chemicals that kill the weeds or pests are used. These chemicals are called herbicides,
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pesticides or insecticides. The chemical method is effective and quicker than other methods, but it can be hazardous to the environment if it is not applied strictly according to the instructions. Improper use of chemicals may lead to the development of resistance among the pests, causing heavy outbreaks which lead to an increase in production costs and heavy crop losses. Insecticides come in various formulations, such as dusts, wettable powders, seed dressers, emulsions and granules. Sometimes spraying is also used to apply plant foods to be taken up through the leaves. Coarse or fine droplets • Coarse spray takes longer to evaporate in the sun than fine spray.
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•
Coarse spray falls down faster, and fine spray gets blown away in wind, like rain and clouds.
•
When to use coarse spray and/or fine spray Coarse spray: • To keep the leaves wet for a longer time so that the plant can absorb the sprayed substance. • Weed poison will then kill the plant and insect poison will kill the insects eating the plant.
Correct population (consult with extension officer)
When not to spray • Not just before rain
Fine spray: • To cover the insect or pest as thoroughly as possible. • Poison will kill the insect or pest when taken up through its skin.
•
Not in strong wind
When to spray Weeds: • Young weeds take up a lot of the plant’s food to grow fast (consult with extension officer) Insects: • At the correct time of its life (consult with extension officer) 24
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How strong is the wind? May I spray?
•
By the shape of the hole
One can change the form of the spray (the spray pattern) and the size of the droplets by moving your thumb position. Nozzles Just like one can change the spray pattern on a hose pipe, different nozzles are shaped to produce different spray patterns. Various nozzles and nozzle sizes are available. Two different nozzle types may even look alike. The hollow cone spray nozzle may look like a solid cone nozzle.
Do not spray during mid-day in summer, rather spray when it is cool.
Different types of nozzles Only by knowing the marking code on the nozzle, one can be sure what kind of nozzle it is. For this one needs to consult the nozzle book of the manufacturer of the specific nozzle. Your extension officer may be able to help. One can, however, do some test sprays onto a dry surface to get an idea of what the nozzle does. Carefully observe the patterns you get and judge whether a fine spray or course spray is produced:
The knapsack sprayer How are droplets formed? • By pressure
Next month we shall take a closer look at nozzles and also look at pumping mechanisms. Published with acknowledgement to the ARC Institute for Agricultural Engineering for the use of their manuals. Visit www.arc.agric.za for more information. ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 01
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Building an affordable round dam: Part 1 by JA Nienaber and M van Zyl
A farmer can only survive as long as he has access to water. 26
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All three countries covered by this new magazine, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Namibia, experience one of the most severe droughts in human history. A manual on building a dam is perhaps a little too late, but since it is never too late to plant a tree, it is also never too late to build a dam, or an emergency dam for that matter. This short article series shows how you can build your own affordable round dam in a do-it-yourself fashion.
processing or any other purpose. The cost of a dam or dams for collection of water usually constitutes a considerable part of the cost of the infrastructure of a farm. The ARC Institute for Agricultural Engineering therefore started examining alternative and cheaper ways of collecting water. A dam was erected on the premises of the Institute for this purpose and has been evaluated for a period of three years. The dam was emptied, cleaned and refilled on a regular basis. It is entirely exposed to all weather conditions and it can be stated that the durability of the dam can be determined
in the course of time. The conventional type of dam of concrete and brick may be considered a more durable construction, but it costs considerably more and is more labour intensive to build. With careful maintenance and the prevention of mechanical damage, it is viable to consider the new structure, as it is much cheaper than commercially available dams. The cost of erecting this dam is less than half of the cost of a round concrete dam and less than a quarter of the cost of a commercial, prefabricated dam after installation.
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he walls of this dam consist of welded wire mesh, with a lining of polyester cloth treated with a sealant for waterproofing. Timber posts supply the necessary support and strength to the structure. As it is important to determine the size of the dam beforehand, clear indications are given for the calculation of the diameter. A complete list of materials required is supplied for easy purchase of the components. Step-by-step instructions with practical hints for the erection of the dam are given. At the end of the series, directives regarding the maintenance of the dam are also discussed. Collected water is a necessity on every farm – whether it is used for drinking water for man and animal, irrigation of lands or vegetable gardens, fish farming,
A concrete dam is double the cost of a timber and canvas dam. Description of the dam: The structure (See Figure 1) is a round dam of welded wire mesh, with a lining of polyester cloth, painted with a waterproofing substance to make it waterproof. The whole structure is secured with a number of timber poles planted into the ground, with the wire mesh secured to it.
Collecting water in a quick and effective manner is crucial, especially in times of emergency. Photo: Tentedcamps.com. ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 01
Figure 1: The experimental dam on the premises of ARC Agricultural Engineering is used for flood irrigation for a vegetable garden. 27
The construction of the dam is simple, and it can easily be constructed with the user’s own labour in a very short time. The materials are also easy to use, and no specialised knowledge or equipment is necessary.
into the dam? • What will the total water consumption be during this period? • How continuous is the water source? • How much damage will be caused by water shortages?
Size of the dam: The user decides on the size of the dam required according the purpose for which it will be used. The following aspects should however be kept in mind: • How regularly will water be pumped
After the volume of the dam has been determined, the diameter must be calculated in order to continue with the preparations for and erection of the dam. For practical reasons, the height of the dam walls is restricted to 1,2 metre.
Table 1 shows the ratio between the volume, diameter and radius of a round dam with a depth of 1,2 metre. The following abbreviations are used for the units: m = metre m2 = square metre m3 = cubic metre ℓ = litre mm = millimetre 1 m3 = 1 000 litre subsequently applies
Volume [m3]
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
Diameter [m]
3,26
4,61
5,64
6,52
7,28
7,98
8,62
9,22
9,77
10,3
Radius [m]
1,63
2,31
2,82
3,26
3,64
3,99
4,31
4,61
4,89
5,15
Table 1: Proportion ratio between volume, diameter and radius of a round dam, 1,2 m deep
To calculate the volume of the dam yourself, when a diameter other than that in Table 1 is chosen, the following comparison may be used: V = 0,785 x h x D2 (1) Where: V = volume of storage dam (m3) h = depth of storage dam (m) D = diameter of storage dam (m) Example Calculate the volume of a round storage dam with a diameter of 5,00 m and a depth of 1,20 m. Geotextile unwoven polyester cloth. Photo: Agriculturesolutions.com.
Solution: Use comparison (1): V = 0,785 x h x D² V = 0,785 x 1,20 m x (5,00 m²) V = 23,6 m3 Therefore V = 23 600 litre
Dams with a diameter larger than 10 m and a height exceeding 1,2 m are not discussed, because the materials place a restriction on the strength of such a dam. List of materials: The following materials required for the erection of this storage dam can be purchased at an agro shop or building material dealer: • Treated timber poles, 1,5 m in length and 50 to 75 mm thick. • Galvanised, welded wire mesh, 1,2 m wide with mesh openings of 13 x 25 mm, of which the wire is 2,0 mm thick. • Unwoven polyester cloth (also called geotextile), grade U14, with a width of 1,32 m. • Multi-purpose rubberised waterproofing sealant in liquid form. Ensure that the sealant does not contain any health threatening substances and that it will be stable under prolonged exposure to sun and water. • An exterior acrylic paint of a light colour. • Outlet pipe and 90° bend of at least 28
100 mm in diameter, of PVC, polythene, and fibre cement or galvanised steel. • Binding wire.
Galvanised, welded wire mesh. Photo: jacksons-fencing.co.uk.
Treated timber poles. Photo: Kwambapoles.co.za.
Liquid rubberised waterproofing sealant. ProAgri BNZ 01
Exterior acrylic paint.
PVC outlet pipe and 90° bend.
Binding wire. Photo: Indiamart.com.
The number or quantity of each of the above-mentioned materials required for a specific dam is given in Table 2.
Volume [m3]
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
Diameter [m]
3,26
4,61
5,64
6,52
7,28
7,98
8,62
9,22
9,77
10,3
Number of poles
6
6
8
8
8
10
10
10
12
12
Length of wire mesh [m] (width =1,2 m)
11,0
15,0
18,5
50
24,0
26,0
28,0
29,5
31,5
33,0
Length of polyester cloth [m] (width =1,32 m)
19
30
40
260
60
69
78
87
96
105
Quantity of sealant (â„“)
95
155
210
310
355
405
450
495
540
Table 2: Quantity or number of materials required according to size of storage dam: As the calculation of the volume has already been done, the materials can be purchased according to Table 2. The diameter of the dam is also known according to the particulars in Table 1 or as calculated with the aid of comparison (1). The construction can now commence.
Next month we shall look at the preparation, construction and maintenance of the dam. Published with acknowledgement to the ARC Agricultural Engineering for the use of their Affordable Round Dam For Farms Manual. Visit www.arc.agric.za for more information.
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Trading for more than 25 years in Botswana • • • • • • •
All agrochemicals sold by Agrichem, are registered as required by the Agrochemical Act. Staff are trained and offer a professional service.
Veterinary products Feed Seed Pest control Fertilisers Irrigation equipment General farming products
“We have established a demonstration plot where we test and showcase products and train people. We are here to assist new and established farmers with good quality products and relevant information.” - Mike Paxton, CEO of Agrichem NR
Agrichem NR
ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 01
Agrichem demo plot
+267-241-4211 / 3905 sales@agrichembotswana.com Plot 246/7, Khutse Crescent, Light industrial, Francistown
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Botswana
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lephants, the largest existing land animals, are an endangered species that should be protected to prevent them from becoming extinct. They are also beautiful animals, but however beautiful and interesting elephants may be, they can also severely damage crops, destroy trees and even kill people. This situation obviously brings about a conflict of interests between farming and nature conservation. The former president, Ian Khama, introduced a prohibition on elephant hunting in Botswana in 2014, but this year the ban was lifted. Lifting the ban appeals to villagers struggling to keep elephants out of their fields, and boosts President Mokgweetsi Masisi’s popularity ahead of general elections in October 2019. President Masisi took over from President Khama in April last year, and a review began five months later, with reports suggesting growing political friction between President Masisi and his predecessor. The negative side of elephants in Botswana: • There are too many elephants in Botswana. Some experts claim the number of elephants in Botswana has almost tripled over the last 30 years, and that the population is now over 160 000. • Elephants cause trouble for farmers’ crops and kill people. According to Botswana's government, some 45 people have been killed by elephants in recent years, and there has been more than 8 000 incidents of animal and human conflict. • The biological diversity is being put under strain. The elephants eat too many trees. In South Africa’s Kruger National Park (since 1960) more than 95% of that sanctuary’s top-canopy woodland trees have been destroyed by too many elephants. More on the trees: Ron Thomson, a qualified field ecologist who has been working in Africa’s
Botswana lifts ban on elephant hunting by Benine Ackermann
national parks and wildlife management systems for 58 years, said in a letter quoting the words of Professor Brian Child: • Only four of the 152 Acacia nigrescens (knob thorn trees) had survived (by 2007). • Knob thorns, that had constituted
Poaching of elephants in Botswana increased: Ron Thomson claim that the presence of hunters reduces poaching. According to an article of the Daily Maverick, Don Pinnock writes: “EWB found 156 elephants with their skulls split open and tusks removed, a huge increase over the previous survey. The actual number poached is undoubtedly higher than just those seen. All were within five hot spots. This evidence suggests that ivory poaching on the scale
An elephant enjoys eating trees. 32
51% of the woodland species in 1965, were then down to 1,3%; and five species of slow-growing large riverine tree species had been extirpated. • In 1963, the majority of mukwa trees (Pterocarpus angolensis) and mugongo-nut trees, were ring-barked in an area just to the north of the Ngwezumba Bridge. • In 1965, virtually all the Kirkia and Commiphora trees were pushed over in a large area on the face of the sand ridge west of Ihaha. • The marula (Sclerocarya caffra) is greatly favoured by elephants. The whole tree is eaten by the elephants right down to the roots.
ProAgri BNZ 01
This elephant devours a whole branch of a tree. • Farmers can put up electric fencing that don’t need any maintenance to limit their crop damage.
The debate of elephant hunting is still going on in Botswana. of hundreds of elephants per year occurred in northern Botswana since 2017 or possibly earlier. “Increases in carcass numbers are disturbing because it may indicate a future poaching increase. In Zimbabwe’s Sebungwe ecosystem, carcass numbers increased in the early 2000’s. This was followed by massive poaching and population collapse, with 2014’s elephant numbers down by 76% from the early 2000’s.”
Elephants and their eating habits: An elephant can weigh up to 7 tonnes and reaches heights of 3,3 m at the shoulder. They can live to an age of 70 years. They are considered to be a keystone species, due to their impact on their environment. Elephants are enormous feeders. In a day a single elephant can consume
up to 272 kg of grass, tender shoots and bark from trees. An adult elephant drinks up to 200 litres of water in a single session. A single elephant deposits up to 150 kg of dung every day, about one dollop every 15 minutes. There is no easy solution to the problem. The rich diversity of African wildlife must be protected, but should it really be protected at the cost of human life? Legalising the hunting of elephants may be the only way to protect both elephants and humans.
Why elephants should not be hunted: • They are an endangered species and can go extinct. • Tourists pay to see elephants and this means that the killing of elephants will have a negative impact on tourism that contributes to Botswana’s economy. ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 01
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Swakara sheep: Turn pelts into profits by Jaco Cilliers
S
wakara was coined as a brand name by the Karakul farmers of the then South West Africa, now Namibia, and South Africa, as their Karakul sheep had specific characteristics that those from other parts of the world did not have. Karakul sheep are multi-purpose animals originating from the dry regions of Central Asia. Since the first ten ewes and two rams made their way into Southern Africa via Germany in 1907, they have adapted to their new hotter and dryer environment. In 2016, the then Chairman of the Swakara Board of Namibia, stated that “the arid semidesert conditions prevailing in southern and western Namibia proved to be an environment where the sheep thrived without having any negative impact on the very fragile ecosystem, and delivered a high-value agricultural product”.
Mature Swakara sheep.
Economics Agra is a Namibian based farmers’ co-operative responsible for the marketing and export of all Swakara pelts. They are committed to developing and implementing strategies for expanding the industry, imparting knowledge and directly supporting the farmers. The product certainly has a high agricultural value. During the March 2019 auction, Agra sent 32 975 pelts to Denmark. The consignment consisted of 18 952 black (57,47%), 8 877 white (26,92%), 1 830 spotted (5,55%), 2 162 grey (6,56%), 452 brown (1,37%) and 702 diverse pelts (2,13%). The average price obtained on the day was N$452,53. This was 2%
less than the average of the September 2018 auction, but it can be attributed to an unfavourable exchange rate between the N$ and the Danish Krone. The average price achieved for black Swakara pelts was N$461,63, an increase of 20,37% over Sept 2018. White pelts sold for an average N$551,06, representing a 21,85% decline compared to Sept 2018. Spotted pelts sold for N$313,45, an increase of 38,84% compared to Sept 2018, whilst brown pelts sold for N$426,36 and grey pelts for N$269,99. The auction was attended by 22 successful bidders. The top Namibian producer with more than 250 pelts was Raynold Losper. He achieved an average price of N$712,04 for his 400 pelts. Due to the outbreak of foot-andmouth disease in South Africa, the South African pelts were not sold during the March 2019 auction. (Source: www.agra. Swakara ewe with her lamb. The lambs are born com.na) with black, wavy pelts. ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 01
Swakara also provides new opportunities for emerging farmers through AGRA’s commitment to expand the Swakara industry. They provide access to international markets with their participation in Copenhagen Fur Auction, but they also organise regular local auctions. There will be an auction held on 23 October 2019 in Keetmanshoop for those who are interested in trading with the Karakul sheep. Not only does the Swakara industry of Namibia provide job opportunities for the producers of Swakara pelts, of which there are over 600, but there are also secondary industries as a spin-off. The processing of the pelts has created jobs that stimulated the Namibian economy on a local community level. The industry has developed slowly and sustainably over the years and is now a significant economic contributor to the improvement of the lives of many Namibians. Agra is the main marketer for the Swakara pelts. Jaco van Zyl from Agra explained the process. He said that farmers deliver their pelts throughout the year to ‘The House of Swakara’, where pelts are sorted, graded and shipped to the auction house in Copenhagen, Denmark. Throughout the sorting and grading process, jobs are created to stimulate the local economy. 35
Namibia
ProAgri ProAgri Z a m b i a
ProAgri South Africa was established 25 years ago and ProAgri Zambia 4 years ago, growing from strength to strength every month.
We now welcome our latest addition to the ProAgri family -
ProAgri Botswana /Namibia/Zimbabwe This publication will pave the way for agricultural development, knowledge and trade with our northern neighbours in Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe Namibia Namibia
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Contact Diane Grobler on +27 (0)82-555-6866 or send an e-mail to diane@proagri.co.za for more information.
ProAgri BNZ 01
Farming Due to the fact that the Swakara breed is so well adapted to suit the dry conditions of Southern Africa, they can be maintained on a free-range feeding system, even in times of drought. Additional feed can be given when necessary, but the sheep uses the fatty tail to store energy for times when food becomes scarce. Swakara sheep are mediumsized animals, which also means that they need less nourishment than bigger sheep breeds. An average mature ram can weigh between 80 and 100 kg, with an average mature ewe ranging from 45 to 68 kg. They are not only able to survive harsh climates, but also have a resistance against intestinal parasites and foot-rot disease. An ewe can produce three lambs in a two-year cycle if managed correctly, thereby increasing profitability. Single lambs are usually born, but twins are not uncommon. The ewes have excellent maternal qualities that results in a high lamb survival rate. Swakara pelts are a mixture of coarse and fine fibres. The colour varies from shades of black to grey and tan. Most lambs are born with black coats with wavy curls. As the sheep matures, the wool loses its curl and the colour turns to a bluish grey, getting lighter with age. Older sheep have a double coat that consists of a fine undercoat and a rougher guard coat. The Swakara breed moved away from the long and curly type of hair and instead breeds short and strong hair that sets Swakara apart from the traditional Asian Karakul. The Swakara sheep has a lot to offer the producers in Southern Africa. This breed is well-adjusted to the arid conditions prevailing in large parts of South Africa, Botswana and Namibia. It is world-renowned for producing magnificent pelts that are used in the high-end fashion industry, but also produces meat and milk, allowing for diversifica-
Such a Swakara pelt is very popular at the Copenhagen auction. tion and thereby reducing the risks of farming a single product. Products Apart from the pelts already mentioned, the Swakara sheep can be used to produce: • Meat that is very lean and a lot healthier with less fat than other common sheep breeds. • Milk that is used for producing butter and cheese. These products are considered delicacies and are also highly profitable. • Apart from the pelts, the wool is also a highly sought-after product. The wool of adult sheep is used for weaving carpets and other heavy fabrics. The Karakul produces a light-weight, high-volume, strong fibre fleece, that at its best is long and lustrous, usually with no crimping. It is easily spun, with little preparation. It produces a superior carpet yarn, is often used for rugs and saddle blankets, outer garments and wall-hangings, and has an excellent felting ability. It is the wool from which the art of felting evolved.
The final high-end fashion product manufactured from Swakara pelts. Overall, the Swakara is an excellent sheep breed that can be kept sustainably in areas that are not suitable for other types of agricultural activity. Their versatility ensures the farmer multiple income opportunities, and their hardy nature means that they are less labourintensive to farm with. Swakara is a breed from Africa, for Africa.
Swakara pelts are dried on these shelves during the processing phase of production.
Farmers looking at the lots on offer at a Swakara auction. ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 01
For more information, contact George Pearson who is the agent for the Keetmanshoop auction. (+264-63-223-321 / +264 (0) 81-122-3623). 37
Namibia
Drought takes its toll: Namibia still suffers from seven lean years by Jaco Cilliers
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ome parts of Namibia did not have sufficient rain for the past seven years. It became a national crisis, and in May this year the President declared the whole country a disaster area due to the persisting drought. The whole country is suffering, from Ovamboland all the way down to the Southern border with the RSA. Hansie Esterhuyse, Chairman of the Karasberge Farmers Union, said that on
his farm he lost more than 200 ewes due to the drought this year. “I had 210 springbuck on my farm, now there are only eight left,” said Hansie. The drought affects the farming community in various ways. Due to the drought, there is a feed shortage which means that the feed prices have increased dramatically. A bale of lucerne that used to cost R80 is now R165 and a 50 kg bag of maize that used to be
Namibia is experiencing the worst drought in more than a century. Photo: FTW Online.
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R180 is now R240. “The other problem is that if I order feed from South Africa today, I have to wait five to eight weeks for delivery,” Hansie stated. He also said that in an effort to assist the farmers, the Namibian government made the purchasing and import of feed tax-free. Various companies organised fund raising projects to assist the farmers with feed. Recently Engen donated an amount of R3 million to the drought relief fund. The NAU (Namibian Agricultural Union) and the regional farmers’ associations are doing what they can to assist farmers with feed for their animals. Farmers receive subsidies to the amount of R50/bag of feed that they purchase. A joint initiative between the Namibian Biomass Industry Group (N-BiG), the charcoal industry, the Namibian Farmers’ Union (NFU) and the Namibian Emerging Commercial Farmers’ Union (NECFU) has also almost reached their target of R10 million to assist the drought stricken farmers. Farmers cannot afford to feed large herds with the escalating feed prices, and it is estimated that 50 to 60% of livestock have either already been slaughtered or sold to South African farmers. Many farmers have sold all their animals and are waiting for the rains to start farming again. Some farmers ProAgri BNZ 01
some of worst hit farms. The industry has virtually grinded to a halt because of the drought. If cows cannot eat properly, they also cannot produce enough milk. The high cost of feed and low milk production has made profitability nearly impossible for the dairy farmers. The availability of potable water is getting worse in areas such as Mariental, where the water level of the Hardap Dam has reached an all-time low of 18%. Recently some areas have received rain. Aus had 24 mm of rain and, as Hansie explains, the desert is thankful. “It does not take a lot of rain for the grass to grow,” he says. The regular rainy season usually lasts from late in
January to May, but there may be some rain during September/October. Many farmers must transport water from other places because their boreholes have dried up. The transport involved to bring feed and water to the animals is costing the farmers a lot of money. This is going to result in rising meat prices that will affect consumers. Drought is indeed a problem that affects every citizen of a country, not only the farming community. The farmers are desperate for relief from the persisting drought. The fact that some rain fell in other areas such as the Northern Cape in South Africa and the southern regions of Angola gives the Namibians hope for next year’s rain season.
Crop failures have occurred because of the drought. This caused feed and food shortages for the animals and people of Namibia. Photo: The Namibian. who still have bonds on their farms are facing eviction because they fell behind with their payments due to the drought. According to Hansie, the whole community is suffering, not only the farmers. “The farmers supported other businesses in the towns, but now that the farmers do not have money, the shop owners are also struggling,” he explains. It seems that the dairy farms are
Cattle farmers are severely affected by the persisting drought in Namibia. Photo: The Namibian.
50 to 60% of cattle have either been slaughtered to escape the drought or exported to South Africa. Photo: informante.web.na. ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 01
Dam levels have dropped to a record low due to the drought that has been going on for seven years in some regions in Namibia. Photo: The Citizen. 39
Zimbabwe
ADMA shows the pride of agriculture in Zimbabwe The rather windy, cloudy, and cool weather did not deter visitors from queuing to get through the tight security measures at the entrances. The measures were implemented due to the presidential visit on the Friday.
I
n a display of optimism, agricultural suppliers in Zimbabwe flocked to the Borrowdale Racecourse in Harare for the third annual ADMA (Agricultural Dealers and Manufacturers Association) Show. With more than 150 stands, the show showed a 50% increase on last year’s attendance and an even better quality of displays and products available to farmers. Close to 10 000 people visited the show over the three days in June, and many used the opportunity to look at new technology, catch up with old friends and to do some serious networking. Mr Marco Garizio, President of ADMA, took time off his busy Loadagropower stand to explain to ProAgri that ADMA had to step in to create their own dedicated agricultural show when the
previously successful agricultural show lost its focus. “Our farmers depend on innovative and cost-effective farming concepts. The initiative behind our AgriShow is to give our industry players and our farmers a once a year opportunity to identify and compare products that offer costsaving advantages and concepts,” he explains. He said afterwards the reaction they received from the public visiting the show was that they were quite overwhelmed by the size of the show and the volume of equipment on display. “It did not project a country that is supposed to be on the brink of collapse. Most exhibitors indicated good sales and enquiries and said they will definitely exhibit again next year.” Marco also acted as host for Presi-
dent Emmerson Mnangagwa who visited the show on the busy Friday. He says: “The President was suitably impressed with the show and had no idea the mechanisation sector was as big or as competitive as it is. On a personal note, being a farmer from before the land re-distribution programme, he indicated he would love to be able to walk around the show and leisurely view what’s on the market and display.” The new monetary policy had an influence on sales, because agricultural business has been running smoothly on USD and any new currency cannot replace that buying power, says Marco. Even so, his company, Loadagropower, could cover their exhibition costs, including transport, with the sales generated at the show.
ProAgri visited many stands during the show. Please join us in a brief tour:
President Emmerson Mnangagwa was shown around the show by ADMA President Marco Garizio. 40
Proudly serving Zimbabwe since 1922, William Bain & Company boasts a full range of farming equipment, including their own robust tillage and other machinery, New Holland tractors and Iveco trucks.
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At the AFGRI stand John Deere stole the show with its display ranging from the old to the new and from the small to the impressively large, but Graeme Smith, Country Manager of AFGRI Zimbabwe, says the 6175M remains one of the popular choices in Zimbabwe due to its versatility.
Brett Krambergar from the tyre specialists, Amcotts, said they had a very good show with farmers making use of the show specials.
Driptech was a main sponsor of the ADMA AgriShow. They provide everything you need to irrigate anything you plant. Partnering with One Stop Solar also means that you can get off the grid with you irrigation and everything else on the farm, explained Paul Myburgh and Grant Tapson from Driptech.
Nelly Chamboko from Superfert is one of the company’s team of experts advising farmers on all the nutritional needs of their plants.
Nevill Sealy from Agricon, dealers for Case, says they are not afraid to go big with red in Zimbabwe. Left: Kevin Williams from Valley Irrigation spent some quality time with the President explaining what difference a centre pivot system can make to farming productivity. ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 01
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Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe hopes to revive economy with new currency by Jaco Cilliers
Photo: moneyweb.co.za
I
n an effort to make it easier to do business, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Finance, Prof Mthuli Ncube, announced in June this year that a new Zimbabwean currency will be introduced before the end of 2019. This comes after the Zimbabwean government decided to abandon the multicurrency bond notes that they have been using since 2009. The reason for this decision was that there was not enough cash in the country to back up the currency. According to Chrispen Mununga, economist of the Commercial Farmers’ Union of Zimbabwe (CFU) the way that most Zimbabweans conducted business until now was through mobile transfers, due to the cash shortage. Traders exploited this problem. “Due to unavailability of cash within the market, most traders have asked for a 35% to 45%
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premium for one to access cash,” says Chrispen. He also stated that goods tended to be cheaper when using cash. Chrispen said there is hope that the new currency will make it easier to do business, but all depends on how well the public reacts to the new currency, and how well the government can formulate the policies surrounding the issue. However, Chrispen stated that “trust and confidence have been lost with the financial instruments.” According to the Director of the CFU, Ben Gilpin, the reality is that Zimbabwe is facing high inflation and the prospects of confidence in a new currency are low. But how will this affect the agricultural sector? Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector is struggling to keep up with the demand.
“Farmers are largely contract financed now, and their level of indebtedness is quite high. Banks are reluctant to finance farmers where property rights have been eroded, and there are limited prospects of recovery in the event of failure. This has been made worse by the unfavourable rainfall over the past season and the other disruptions caused by acute energy and fuel challenges,” says Ben. He further explains that production costs are continuously rising, and budgeting is simply not possible. To further complicate matters, the state’s control over the maize market is a strong deterrent for farmers who can plant crops this year. “Government will now also be faced with a high import bill for both maize and wheat as well as the shortfall on oilseeds,” he predicts. Zimbabwe exports its agricultural products to South Africa, the Netherlands, and the Middle East. How the new currency will affect these markets will once again depend on the confidence that the public and business community displays in the currency. According to Ben Gilpin there has been considerable support from the government to farmers over recent years, but it had not been adequately accounted for and eventually the taxpayers had to foot the bill. “In addition, recent incentive maize prices to producers were higher than import prices and resulted in government having to finance subsidies to millers to keep them viable. These issues are still contributing to great uncertainty and a lack of confidence.” The future of agriculture in Zimbabwe seems uncertain, but Chrispen Mununga has a message for the government: “Farming is key to Zimbabwe’s success, but we need policy makers who can understand and appreciate the economic conditions that prevail and make use of them. It is most important to understand that time is money and the speed at which they catch up will determine the surplus Zimbabwe will accumulate at the end of each annual budget statement.”
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How to get started with aquaponics Part 1 45
80
% of entrepreneurs starting a business fail within the first 18 months (Forbes) – this is a scary statistic for anyone looking to start a new aquaponic venture. In this series we shall cover principles that will increase your success rate and reduce your risk for failure. You don’t have to be one of the 80% that fail! Invest what you can afford to lose This statement is profound and can be summarised in two words, ‘start cheap’. In our aquaponic journey, we found that the vast majority of people are taking risks and chasing profits but neglecting the core principles that will ensure the longevity of their venture. Aquaponics is an industry that is riddled with business risks that you need to consider and then reduce. Consider the following smart ways (“aquaponic hacks”) to start off with:
PVC sizing is important to avoid blockages in your system Consider the root systems of your plants. Plants with large tap-root systems are more likely to lead to blockages in your system. On https:// hydrotower.org/2018/07/20/how-toget-started-with-aquaponics/ you will find a video guiding you in the process of constructing your own NFT system. The CHOP (Constant Height One Pump) system is the most popular system among beginners as it is arguably the most efficient way to run an aquaponics system. This system, including it’s variant (Chop #2) is explained in detail by Murray Hallam who leads the industry in promoting commercial aquaponic systems. The picture below illustrates the typical CHOP system design (image by www. avazinternationaldance.org):
Aquaponic starter kits Several companies specialise in developing ready-to-go systems that are perfect for your initial experimenting. These systems range in size and price. If you are not sure where to start, search on Amazon for an aquaponic starter kit for a small investment. Experiment and adapt With this mindset, flexibility and adaptability are a competitive advantage. You succeed not by becoming too fixated on a single goal or outcome, but by being responsive to changes in the environment. By starting small you could have more than one experiential system, collecting data and analysing performance. The secret is optimisation in your country and climate – what works in Canada will not necessarily work in Africa. Consider light, humidity, temperatures and legislation in setting up your experimental systems.
DIY projects We shall discuss two of the most popular DIY aquaponic systems, the gravitybased NFT system (made of PVC) and the CHOP aquaponic system. NFT stands for Nutrient Film Technique. The NFT system is ideal for anyone and everyone on a tight budget. As with most systems, there are a couple of things that you need to consider to optimise your system and increase plant growth: NFT system should only have exposure to diffused light. This means that you should not leave your system in open sunlight – diffused light will keep your water at a stable temperature and prevent your plants from being damaged. Please read the section on lights and plants as well as the importance of water temperature control. The CHOP system was designed by Murray Hallam of Australia. “Greenhouse design – considering light” is an article that we wrote after we struggled to understand why certain greenhouse designs can only be found in certain climates; we didn’t take climatical differences into account. Understand what you do before you branch out and invest in something new – you might just find your niche in obtaining that in-depth understanding.
A NFT system can get you going to experiment with aquaponics. Photo: www.knutsonsharvest.com. 46
Networking “If you don’t have an ecosystem of people you can tap into for support, to help out with, say, finding talent or just making contacts, it’s 20 to 30 times harder to get your business off the ground.” – Bryce Keane, co-founder, 3beards. It is interesting to note that when looking at aquaponics we are building an ecosystem, and the same principal should be applied to your business, build an ecosystem. Grow an organic
ProAgri BNZ 01
sive breed with the idea to ultimately sell your fish. Conclusion Purposeful design, experiential farming and an investing mindset (“invest what you can aff ord to lose”) makes for success rate far above the 20% mentioned in the introductory paragraph. Apply the principles discussed above and you will drastically increase your chances of success. Make that profitable aquaponic venture a reality! In this system around 30 different types of leafy vegetables and herbs are thriving together. network by reaching out to aquaculture farms, plumbers, botanists and any other persons who could add value to your venture and life. We started our business by reaching out to an aquaponic farm in South Africa, and they influenced some of the business decisions that we have made. They raised concerns and advised us when we needed guidance in our decision-making, just like parents who are looking after the best interests of their children. Please support them by visiting their website: www.ksba.co.za. Build an ecosystem with purpose In this last section, we don’t want to advise you to start with certain plants or species as the purpose behind your system should be the driver here. In this decision, it is also very important to understand what plants will thrive in a mature system versus a new system. Plants that carry fruit tend to thrive in mature systems (for example tomatoes, cucumbers, and eggplants) where your leafy greens tend to thrive in either one (kale, spinach, lettuce, and herbs) due to the nutritional demand.
Let us break the intentions down in more detail: Commercial When your intention is to experiment with a small-scale commercial system, it would be wise to incorporate your envisaged fish and plant species. This will not only allow for comparable data, but it will ensure that you cross certain of the red tape in establishing your venture – in South Africa for an example we have to obtain numerous fish permits to farm with Nile Tilapia. This will make the transition from experiential farming to commercial farming smoother and it will promote informed decisions to be made. Residential When your intention is to feed your family, in any shape or form, it creates room for easier alternatives. Fish species like goldfish, catfish and koi make for excellent aquaponic fish species as they are hardy and can usually be obtained without the necessary red tape. These fish have different points of attraction – koi for example can be an investment if you invest in an expen-
Nile Tilapia is one of the best fish species to farm with commercially, as they are fertile, hardy, and grow fast. ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 01
Microgreens can also be grown in aquaponics, explains Jeannette Molefe from Kleinskuur Aquaponics.
This article was published on hydrotower.org. Visit the site for many more interesting articles on sustainable living. 47
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ProAgri BNZ 01
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CAPACITY 9-12 Ton p/h product dependent GRAIN TYPES Maize, wheat, Soya, Sorghum, Oilseed, Other
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