ProAgri BNZ 47

Cover

WOMEN IN AGRICULTURE

From the classroom to the farm to the boardroom … women in agriculture are helping to pave the way for a better future. As leaders, it is our responsibility to make sure the next generation of women are educated, encouraged and empowered to take on the challenges of meeting the world's growing food, fuel and fibre needs. Women have been a critical part of farming operations across the world for centuries.

But now, as women in agriculture, we have a unique opportunity to be the change we want to see in our industry. We must build on the incredible legacy of stewardship, innovation, and productivity and help one another succeed now and moving into the future.

Whether it is a farm business that feeds the world, land that you leave in a better condition than you found it, or a relationship that empowers and supports your community, industry, and neighbours — there are many ways to build and grow your contribution to agriculture. The time is now for each of us to step up to the plate and take on these challenges.

Women may not be in the majority for agricultural professions, but they

are certainly leaving their mark. In more recent times, women are working to get their work recognised by larger audiences. As we celebrate International Women's Day in August, we recognise the significant contributions women have made in the field of agriculture.

However, at the end of the day, it is not about being male or female – it is about making a difference and impact where you go. Let us stand together and build a community, with male and female farmers, taking hands and building a better tomorrow. We rise by lifting others!

In this month’s edition of ProAgri BNZ, we have some female success stories to share with our readers. In our cover story, we also have a success story of a farmer in Botswana who choose Reinke as his irrigation partner.

We hope you enjoy this new edition of ProAgri.

ProAgri-greetings!

Bianca Henning bianca@proagri.co.za

Choose SENTER360 for local quality

Reinke pivots earn profits for Botswana farmers

Farm without effort with Gallagher's smart animal management devices

Philagro's winning formula for African agriculture

Jupidex Agriculture implements: Innovating farming practices for a sustainable future

Choose Senter360 for local quality

Rethink your footprint, one pot at a time

Young female farmer is breaking stereotype barriers: Meet Thokozile Maphisa

Fruit production part 7: Dragon fruit

Chicken breeds part 2: Layer hens

Finacial literacy in agriculture

Apimondia focus: Best bottle of liquid gold

Technews: Take farming to the future with drones

Livestock identification part 2: Ear tattooing and notching

Snail production Part 4: Choose the right housing

Zimbabwe city women upscale urban farming

Irrigation plays a significant role in the production of crops worldwide; also in Southern Africa. Without irrigation, crop production would be unpredictable and limited, making it a challenge to meet the needs of a growing population. Turn to page 3 to read more about Reinke’s contribution to the success of farming in Botswana.

ProAgri

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ProAgri BNZ

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Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe

Drought? No problem!

How can Biocult® Seed Application help your crop perform with 30% less water?

• Mycorrhizae in Biocult® act as a secondary root system by enlarging the roots’ absorption surface area.

• Biocult® stimulates root development which increases the capabilities to absorb larger quantities of water.

• Mycorrhizae in Biocult® reach into micropores where plant roots can’t access water.

• Mycorrhizae improve soil structure for better water infiltration and water retention.

• Mycorrhizae assist the plant in developing osmolytes which protect cells during time of stress. Tsumeb

Irrigation plays a significant role in the production of crops worldwide; also in Southern Africa. Without irrigation, crop production would be unpredictable and limited, making it a challenge to meet the needs of a growing population.

The agricultural sector of Botswana contributes approximately 2% towards the country’s GDP, and offers opportunities for agro-industrial, agro-processing and supply chain development. Major crops grown in Botswana are sorghum, maize, millet, and cowpeas.

Jaco Strachan, a young upcoming and steadfast farmer in the Pandamatenga district in the north of Botswana, is one of the farmers who exploits every opportunity to improve the efficiency of his farm.

Jaco has been farming for seventeen years in this part of the country. “In the earlier years when we started farming here, it was only dryland, and most of the farming operations in Pandamatenga is still dryland. Irrigation is actually a luxury for us in this part of the country,” Jaco adds laughing.

Jaco mainly plants wheat, sorghum, sunflowers, mung beans, sugar beans, red kidney beans, and cowpeas under irrigation.

He says: “Our initial need was to plant more than one crop per season; however, the rainfall season limited us. That was when the need for irrigating our crops arose.”

“When I decided to switch to irrigation, I heard the name Reinke, whereafter I did some research and started investigating on what differentiates and makes a Reinke pivot different from the rest. What I read and with the information gained through my research, I was convinced that Reinke was the right choice, and still remains so today,” Jaco explains.

“I think the one thing that stood out the most for me, was the fact that Reinke pivots are manufactured of high strength steel. Although Reinke’s design and materials add up to a system

Reinke pivots earn profits for Botswana farmers

by Bianca Henning

that is lighter in weight, it is a more efficient and longer-lasting pivot than comparable systems,” he shares.

“After thorough research, I contacted the Reinke representatives in Botswana, as well as Werner Wolvaardt from Reinke Africa, whereafter they promptly assisted me with the design and layout to install pivots on my farm,” he explains.

About three years ago Jaco installed his first Reinke pivots. He started off with two 30 ha and two 15 ha pivots. A year later, he installed two more 15 ha pivots, and last year he installed a 10 ha and three more 15 ha pivots. Today, Jaco is the proud owner of ten Reinke pivots.

“One big advantage which is evident on my farm, is that the weight distribution of a Reinke is much better. For instance, a Reinke has four towers on their 15 ha pivots, while other brands have only three.

It is also evident that the lighter weight of Reinke’s pivots results in less stress on the drive train,” Jaco claims.

Reinke’s remote management offers farmers advanced options to monitor and control their systems any time from practically anywhere.

“I currently irrigate around 150 ha with my ten Reinke pivots. My first four pivots have manual control panels installed on them, and the latest pivots that were installed have remote monitoring, so I can control the pivots from my cell phone, no matter where I am,” he says.

He explains: “On my smartphone I can switch them on and off, change the direction of the pivot and control the speed of the pivot. I can basically do anything that is needed on the pivot from my phone.

“We use generators for electricity supply, and this also has the potential to create problems when it comes to effective irrigation on the farm. With the remote management system, I can see water flow and power supply, which makes life so much easier for me!

“One challenge that we have is the signal strength, however we have installed signal boosters to ensure that our sys-

tems have signal at all times,” he says.

“I am a big fan of Reinke, and I am sure it is evident in the uniformity of my pivots. I would really recommend Reinke to any farmer. Not only are their service and products exceptional, Reinke’s pivots also contributed tremendously to the economic growth of my farm,” Jaco concludes.

The future of irrigated agriculture depends on the acceptance of changing technologies to increase precision management practices and enhance crop production. Efficiency and effectiveness are essential to maintain a sustainable agriculture environment.

Reinke Irrigation’s people are dedicated to the future of irrigated agriculture, and they are ready to assist you with all your irrigation needs. Get in touch with Reinke Africa by calling them on (+27)31350-4525, send an e-mail to patrickellis@reinke.com or visit their website at www.reinke.com.

Werner Wolvaardt of Reinke Africa and Jaco Strachan, a satisfied Reinke farmer of the Pandamatenga district of Botswana.

by Bianca Henning

Farm without effort with Gallagher's smart animal management devices

G allagher understands the value of your farm and your livestock. They understand that you dedicate all your time and energy to your farm, and that is why they are your safety partner. They offer quality equipment and excellent service to farmers.

Gallagher Animal Management is a division of Gallagher Group Limited, a New Zealand-based company that specialises in electric fencing and animal management systems. The company offers a range of products and services designed to help farmers and ranchers manage their livestock more effectively and efficiently.

Their products include electric fencing solutions, weighing and EID (electronic identification) systems, pasture management tools, and animal watering systems. These products are used to improve the health and productivity of animals, while also reducing labour costs and environmental impact.

Some of these products include, but are not limited to:

Gallagher’s Electric Fencing Systems are designed to provide secure containment and management of livestock. They offer a wide range of energisers, conductors, insulators, and accessories to help clients customise their fencing systems to suit their needs.

The benefits of electric fencing systems include lower costs, easy installation, and

more flexibility in managing animals. Manage your livestock's grazing patterns

Gallagher offers farmers peace of mind and has been protecting farmers' assets for 85 years. Electric fencing requires less time, effort and capital than traditional fencing.

However, its true value lies in powerful rangeland management capabilities. This gives farmers careful control over pastures so that pasture and forage crops can be indicated by permanent and temporary subdivisions.

Gallagher keeps your animals safe and ensures your peace of mind.

Estimated breeding values and information gathering form an important part of any livestock farming operation.

Gallagher’s Livestock Weighing and EID (electronic identification) solutions help farmers and ranchers to accurately weigh and identify individual animals.

This information can be used to improve animal health, productivity, and profitability.

Gallagher offers a range of weighing and EID solutions, including weighing scales, EID tag readers, and software.

Gallagher’s Animal Husbandry Vet provides a range of animal husbandry and management products, including livestock handling equipment, stock prods, and animal identification tags. These products are designed to help farmers and ranchers safely and ef-

ficiently manage their livestock, reducing stress on both the animals and the people handling them.

Gallagher’s Water Management offers a range of water management solutions, including automatic waterers, troughs, and pumps. These products help farmers and ranchers to provide clean, fresh water to their livestock, improving animal health and productivity.

Gallagher Animal Management guarantees quality offers on products, including the range of benefits you will get when using this smart technology. The benefits of Gallagher Animal Management include enhanced soil health for proper grazing management, and can improve soil health by promoting the growth of beneficial plants, reducing soil erosion, and increasing carbon sequestration.

Gallagher’s solar-powered electric fencing and watering solutions help to reduce carbon emissions by decreasing the reliance on fossil fuels, leading to reduced water pollution.

This assists with the prevention of contaminating water sources by ensuring that livestock have access to clean water and are not overgrazing in riparian areas.

Electric fencing resolves the issue of wildlife conflict and helps keep wildlife out of areas where they may cause crop damage, thereby reducing the need for harmful wildlife management practices.

Gallagher Animal Management products and services help farmers manage their livestock in a way that is both economically viable and environmentally sustainable.

Overall, these products offer a combination of durability, reliability, and innovation backed by Gallagher’s extensive experience and expertise in the animal management industry.

Gallagher animal management products make life easy for farmers by offering a wide range of products and services to help them manage their animals and improve their operations.

Identifying and detecting water leaks can be time-consuming and frustrating.

Gallagher offers farmers solutions to track water levels and flow rates with the convenience of their phones.

Gallagher Animal Management SA is headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, and has a network of distributors and partners in over 100 countries worldwide. For more information, contact us at (+27)11-974-4740, e-mail us at sales.za@gallagher.com, or visit our website at www.gallaghersa.co.za.

Gallagher's Electrical Identification (EID) reader with its large colour display and alpha-numeric keyboard makes this handheld device the most powerful portable data collection and editing platform that delivers flexibility for the farmer right there on his premises.

Philagro’s winning formula for African agriculture

Asone of the leaders in the drive to transform agriculture in Africa for the greater good, Philagro’s philosophy is modestly simple but extremely effective. Henk van der Westhuizen, the company’s Managing Director, says Philagro’s vision is to add real value to agriculture in Africa by supplying quality agricultural products and providing exceptional service, hence the slogan: Products that work from people who care.

Despite the challenges faced today, prospects for Africa’s agricultural sector are remarkably positive. According to the “Agriculture Outlook 2018-27” report from the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the sector will undergo robust growth, with crop production in sub-Saharan Africa projected to rise 30% over the next decade. Moreover, greater access to innovative technologies are expected to support the development and application of smart farming techniques.

A fine example of this technology is Philagro’s comprehensive range of proven products that are now available to meet the needs of farmers throughout the Southern Africa region. Commercial and smallholder farmers now have access to total crop solutions with state-of-the-art herbicides, pesticides, fungicides, nematicides, miticides, plant growth regulators and animal feeds. Most of the products distributed by Philagro are very well known in the agricultural world and have earned admiration and respect in the tough world of agricultural remedies.

Philagro has acquired a wide range of registrations against many of the most stubborn pests on important vegetable crops, like the modern active ingredient pyridalyl in SumiPleo®. This

Article supplied

product has some outstanding beneficial features that distinguish it from old-fashioned hard chemicals prone to pest resistance.

SumiPleo® is a blue band product and is relatively safe with regard to mammals and birds, and highly specific to the control of certain insect pests such a Lepidoptera or potato tuber moth larvae, diamondback moth larvae, African bollworm larvae, tomato leaf miner and fall armyworm larvae.

It is relatively safe against insect pest enemies such as parasitic and predatory wasps, as well as other beneficial organisms such as earthworms and bees.

In potatoes, SumiPleo® controls potato moth, Tuta absoluta, and also suppresses the flying leaf miners Lyriomyza trifolii and L. huidobrensis. In tomatoes, SumiPleo® controls African bollworm, Tuta absoluta, and suppresses the flying leaf miners Lyriomyza trifolii and L. huidobrensis, as well as the tomato semi-looper (Chrysodeixes acuta)

In various cabbage crops SumiPleo® as well as FlorBac ® effectively control diamondback moth larvae. In lettuce, African bollworm is kept in check with Sumipleo®. In sweetcorn, SumiPleo® controls the dreaded fall army worm (Spodoptera frugiperda)

For a more effective environmental approach and intelligent resistance management, SumiPleo® is alternated with Philagro's organic Bacillus (Bt) products like DiPel®DF on Lepidoptera larvae in most vegetable crops and FlorBac ®WG in cabbage crops - specifically against diamondback moth larvae. SumiPleo® and Bt products boast relatively short withholding periods

in vegetable crops, which make them ideal for positioning in a control window shortly before harvesting.

Ultra-reliable Sumimax® is renowned for its ability to control annual broadleaf weeds in groundnuts, soya beans, deciduous fruit, citrus, vines, and forestry, and is one of an impressive array of trusted herbicides from Philagro. Sumi-Alpha 200 EW® contains the highly active synthetic pyrethroid esfenvalerate, which is a contact insecticide for the control of cutworms on all crops, bollworm on cotton, sunflower, maize, and sorghum, and also stalk borer in maize.

Another well-known example of Philagro’s comprehensive range is Sumisclex®, a translaminar systemic organic fungicide for the control of diseases on green beans, soya beans, dry beans, peas, and onions.

For more information about Philagro products in your area or to find your nearest agent contact, Bennie Buys at telephone (+27)82-8095447 or email him at bennie. buys@philagro.co.za. Visit Philagro’s website on www.philagro. co.za

SumiPleo® (Reg.no. L8377, Act 36 / 1947) contains, Pyridalyl dichloropropene-derivative, Caution. (Sumitomo Chemical Company, Japan)

DiPel®DF (Reg.no. L6441, Act 36 / 1947) contains Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki. Caution. (Valent Biosciences, USA).

FlorBac ®WG (Reg.no. L5531, Act 36 / 1947) contains Bacillus thuringiensis var. aizawai. Caution. (Valent Biosciences, USA).

Sumimax® WP (Reg no. L6358 Act 36 / 1947) contains Flumioxazin (Nphenylimide). Caution. (Sumitomo Chemical Company, Japan).

Sumi-Alpha® 200 EW (Reg no. L8821, Act 36 / 1947) contains Esfenvalerate. Harmful. (Sumitomo Chemical Company, Japan).

Sumisclex® SC (Reg no. L6377 Act 36 / 1947) contains Procymidone (dicarboximide). (Sumitomo Chemical Company, Japan).

PRODUCTS THAT WORK FROM PEOPLE WHO CARE

Proven crop solutions for Southern African farmers.

Philagro has a wide range of proven products against the most stubborn weeds, pests and diseases on all the important crops in our region. Many of these products are household names in the world of agriculture.

Philagro’s comprehensive range of trusted products are now available to meet the needs of farmers throughout Southern Africa. Now you have access to total crop solutions with state-of-the-art herbicides, pesticides, fungicides, miticides, plant growth regulators and animal feeds.

NAMIBIA

Dipel® DF

Dormex®

Excelero® 10 SL

Goal™ 480 SC

Legend™ 250 SC

Nemesis® 100 EC

Olyset Net

ProGibb® 4%

ProGibb® 40%

ProTone®

Rizolex® WP

Sitofex® 10 EC

Smite®

Sumi-Alpha® 200 EC

Sumi-Alpha® 200 EW

Sumimax® WP

Sumipleo®

Sumisclex® SC

Vectobac® WG

Yamato® 480 SC

Dipel® DF

FlorBac® DF

Goal™ 480 SC

Nemesis® 100 EC

Rizolex® WP

Smite®

Sumi-Alpha® 200 EW

Sumisclex® SC

MOZAMBIQUE

Dipel® DF

Rizolex® WP

Sunny® 50 SC

Vectobac® WG

MALAWI

Dipel® DF Smite®

Dipel® DF

Smite®

Sumimax® WP

Sumipleo®

Sumisclex® SC

Sunny® 50 SC

Dipel® DF

Smite®

Product information INSECTICIDES

Dipel® DF

A water dispersible granule biological insecticide for the control of Lepidopterous larvae on numerous crops as indicated. Active ingredient - Bacillus thuringiensis, var kurstaki, caution (Reg. No. L6441, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), W130297 (Botswana), MW/PCB/2021/R/0737 (Malawi), DSV-1545 (Mozambique), N-AR-0943 (Namibia)). DiPel®DF is the registered trademark of Valent BioSciencesTM Corporation, USA.

FlorBac® DF

A water dispersible granule biological insecticide for the control of Lepidoptera larvae on crops as indicated. Active ingredient - Bacillus thuringiensis, var. aizawai, caution (Reg. No. L5531, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), W130272 (Botswana), ). Florbac® is the registered trademark of Valent BioSciencesTM Corporation, USA.

Nemesis® 100 EC

An emulsifiable concentrate stomach and contact insecticide with insect growth regulant activity for the control of larval/nymphal stages of citrus Red scale (Aonidiella aurantii) and Mussel scale (Cornuaspis beckii) in citrus,and mango scale (Aulacaspis tubercularis) in mangoes and Whiteflies (Bemesia tabaci and Trialeurodes vaporariorum) in tomatoes. Active ingredient - Pyriproxyfen (phenylether), harmful (Reg. No. L6378, Act 36 of 1947(South Africa), W130334 (Botswana), N-AR 2170 (Namibia)). Nemesis® is the registered trademark of Sumitomo Chemical Company, Tokyo, Japan.

Olyset® Net

Olyset® Net is composed of a resin-based fiber that incorporates a synthetic pyrethroid called permethrin to form a mosquito net for malaria vector control. Active ingredient - permethrin caution (Reg. No. L8411, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa, N-AR 1055 (Namibia)). Olyset® Net is the registered trademark of Sumitomo Chemical Company, Tokyo, Japan.

Smite®

A suspension concentrate contact acaricide for the control of the egg and immature stages of the Red spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) on roses and tomatoes, Red spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) and European red mite (Panonychus ulmi) on apples and pears and various mites on citrus. Active ingredient - Etoxazole (Diphenyloxazoline derivative), caution (Reg. No. L6011, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), W130352 (Botswana), MW/PCB/2021/R/0758 (Malawi), N-AR-1238 (Namibia)). Smite® is the registered trademark of Sumitomo Chemical Company, Tokyo, Japan.

Sumi-Alpha® 200 EC & 200 EW

An emulsifiable concentrate contact insecticide with residual properties for the control of insects in crops as listed. Active ingredient - Esfenvalerate (Pyrethroid), harmful (Sumi-Alpha® 200 EC, Reg. No. L6452 (South Africa), N-AR 1237 (Namibia), (Sumi-Alpha® 200 EW, Reg. No. L8821, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), W130730 (Botswana), N-AR 2169 (Namibia)). Sumi-Alpha® is the registered trademark of Sumitomo Chemical Company, Tokyo, Japan.

Sumipleo®

An emulsifiable concentrate contact and stomach insecticide for the control of Lepidoptera larvae and Leaf miners on potatoes and tomatoes, Diamond back moth larvae in cruciferous crops, African bollworm larvae in lettuce and Fall armyworm in maize and sweetcorn. Active ingredient - Pyridalyl dichloropropene-derivitive, caution (Reg. No. L8377, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa, N-AR-1236 (Namibia)). Sumipleo ® is the registered trademark of Sumitomo Chemical Company, Tokyo, Japan.

VectoBac® WG

A water dispersible granule biological larvicide for the control of mosquito larvae and fungus gnat larvae. Active ingredient - Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis, caution (Reg. No. L7224, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), N-AR 1167 (Namibia), DSV-2520 (Mozambique)). VectoBac® is the registered trademark of Valent BioSciencesTM Corporation, USA.

HERBICIDES

Sumimax® WP

A wettable powder herbicide for pre-emergence control of annual broadleaf weeds, as listed, in groundnuts, soya beans, deciduous fruit, citrus and vines (and forestry). Active ingredient - Flumioxazin (N-phenylimide), caution (Reg. No. L6358, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), N-AR 1792 (Namibia)). Sumimax® is the registered trademark of Sumitomo Chemical Company, Tokyo, Japan.

Yamato® 480 SC

A suspension concentrate herbicide for pre-emergence control of weeds, as listed, in corn. Can be applied post-emergence of corn. Active ingredient - Pyroxasulfone (Pyrazole), harmful (Reg. No. L10746, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), N-AR 2224 (Namibia)). Yamato® is the registered trade mark of Kumiai Chemical Industry Company, Tokyo, Japan.

Goal™ 480 SC

A suspension concentrate herbicide for use in crops, vineyards, orchards and forestry as listed to control a variety of annual broadleaf and grass weeds as listed. Active ingredient - Oxyfluorfen (diphenyl ether), caution (Reg. No. LL8303, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), W130817 (Botswana), N-AR 1681 (Namibia)). Goal™ is a registered trademark of the Sumitomo Chemical Company, Japan.

For more on these products in your area, and how find your nearest agent, contact Bennie Buys at telephone +27 82 809 5447 or email bennie.buys@philagro.co.za.

Philagro South Africa (Pty) Ltd l Reg. no.: 98/10658107

FUNGICIDES

Legend™ 250 SC

A suspension concentrate surface mobile contact fungicide for the control of Powdery mildew (Oidium tuckeri) in table and wine grapes, (Oidium erysiphoides) in cucurbit crops and (Oidium mangiferae) on mangoes. Active ingredient - Quinoxyfen (quinoline), caution (Reg. No. L6840, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), N-AR 1055 (Namibia)). Legend™ is the registered trademark of Nissan Chemical Corporation, Tokyo, Japan.

Rizolex® WP

A protective contact action wettable powder fungicide for the control of Rhizoctonia damping off on seedlings of ornamentals, flowering plants, cotton and beans, as listed, as well as the control of Corticium rolfsii on chincherinchee bulbs and Rhizoctonia on potatoes. Active ingredient - Tolclofos methyl, caution (Reg. No. L6376, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), N-AR 1239 (Namibia), W130344 (Botswana), DSV-1544 (Mozambique)). Rizolex® is the registered trademark of Sumitomo Chemical Company, Tokyo, Japan.

Sumisclex® SC

A translaminar systemic organic fungicide (suspension concentrate) for the control of diseases on crops and turf as listed. Active ingredient - Procymidone (dicarboximide), caution (Reg. No. L6377, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), N-AR 0904 (Namibia), W130322 (Botswana)).

Sumisclex® is the registered trademark of Sumitomo Chemical Company, Tokyo, Japan.

PLANT GROWTH REGULATORS

Dormex®

A soluble concentrate growth regulant for delayed foliation in apples, apricots, plums, cherries, wine and table grapes, kiwi fruit, as well as advancement of budding in sultana grapes and berries listed. Active ingredient - Cyanamide, harmful (Reg. No. L5740, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), N-AR 0902 (Namibia)). Dormex® is a product of Alzchem Trostberg GmbH, Trostberg, Germany.

Excelero® 10 SL

A liquid concentrate plant growth regulator for use on table grapes to accelerate or increase the colouration in berries and bunches. Active ingredient - s-Abscisic Acid, caution (Reg. No. L10170, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), N-AR 1991 (Namibia)). Excelero® is the registered trademark of Valent BioSciencesTM Corporation, USA.

ProGibb® 4%

A liquid concentrate plant growth regulator for various usages on Grapefruit, Lemons, Oranges, Grapes, Pears, mangoes Hops, Potatoes and Peppers / Peppadews. Active ingredient - Gibberellins (ProGibb® 4%, Reg. No. L5118 (South Africa), N-AR 0941 (Namibia) (ProGibb® 40% Reg. No. L6777, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), N-AR 0942 (Namibia)).

ProGibb® is the registered trademark of Valent BioSciencesTM Corporation, USA.

ProTone®

A liquid concentrate plant growth regulator for use on table grapes to accelerate or increase the colouration in berries and bunches. Active ingredient - s-Abscisic Acid, caution (Reg. No. L8540, Act 36 of 1947 (South AFrica), N-AR 1178 (Namibia)). ProTone® is the registered trademark of Valent BioSciencesTM Corporation, USA.

Sitofex® 10 EC

An emulsifiable concentrate plant growth regulator for increasing the fruit size in kiwi fruit as well as for the increase of berry size and the decrease in berry abscission in tablegrape cultivars as indicated. Active ingredient - Forchlorfenuron, harmful (Reg. No. L6339, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), N-AR 0903 (Namibia)). Sitofex® is a product of Alzchem Trostberg GmbH, Trostberg, Germany.

Sunny® 50 SC

A suspension concentrate plant growth regulator for vegetative growth control and for the enhancement and improvement of fruit shape in avocados. Active ingredient - Uniconazole, harmful (Reg. No. L5587, Act 36 of 1947 (South Africa), DSV-2430 (Mazambique)). Sunny® is the registered trade mark of Aquamarine (London) Limited.

JUPIDEX Agricultural Implements: Innovating farming practices for a sustainable future

JUPIDEX is the supplier of world-class agricultural equipment and spare parts with exceptional service to the African market. Their vision is to be recognised as the preferred supplier of top quality and affordable agricultural equipment to the African market. This vision ties in with their mission where they aim to supply superior quality, affordable agricultural equipment, and after-market spare parts, with exceptional service to their customers.

In 1999, a visionary initiative named JUPIDEX emerged in the agricultural machinery manufacturing industry, with a mission to redefine farming practices on the African continent. JUPIDEX’s journey has been characterised by innovation, user-friendliness, and a strong commitment to agricultural mechanisation development. Over the years, JUPIDEX has become a trailblazer in offering state-of-theart farming solutions to emerging and commercial farmers.

JUPIDEX’s inception marked a turning point in modern agriculture. With a deep understanding of the evolving needs of farmers, the company embarked on a mission to create implements that would not only enhance productivity but also uphold the principles of best agricultural practises. The company's dedication to research and development has b een instrumental in crafting a wide array of agricultural equipment that spans t he entire farming cycle.

At the heart of JUPIDEX’s success lies its African perspective. As a frontrunner in the agricultural machinery sector, JUPIDEX’s influence extends far beyond its origins. With a proud presence in over twenty African countries, JUPIDEX has cemented its position as a leader in the industry. This expansive reach underscores the company's commitment to advancing agricultural practices on a large scale.

JUPIDEX’s diverse product portfolio encompasses a spe ctrum of agricultural implements, each designed to tackle specific farming challenges. From preparing the soil to planting, cultivating, and harvesting, JUPIDEX offers solutions that cater to both small-scale and large-scale farming operations. Let us explore some of the key equipment that forms the backbone of JUPIDEX offerings.

1.Ploughs: JUPIDEX’s ploughs are engineered to perfection, effectively breaking and turning the soil for optimal seedbed preparation. Mouldboard ploughs and disc ploughs ensure that

the soil is primed for planting while maximising efficiency and durability. JUPIDEX ploughs emerge as a versatile solution engineered to excel across a spectrum of soil conditions. Its multifaceted functionality encompasses soil raising, breaking, mixing, and turning, making it adept at handling various agricultural tasks. This plough's exceptional adaptability extends to rooted and rocky terrains, demonstrating its resilience and effectiveness even in challenging landscapes. Its primary applications range from preparing new farming areas to taming stony grounds, catering to the diverse needs of agricultural operations.

2. Harrows: JUPIDEX’s mounted and trailed harrows exemplify precision and versatility in soil preparation, catering to the diverse needs of farmers. The mounted harr ows are seamlessly attached to tractors, effectively breaking up clumps, incorporating residue, and levelling the soil, thereby promoting optimal seed-to-soil contact. On the other hand, the traile d harrows, attached behind the tractor, excel in

covering larger areas with their wider spans and robust construction, ensuring thorough tillage and soil refinement. Both variants of JUPIDEX harrows epitomise efficiency and

Introducing the Jupidex Plough.

Versatile tool for soil raising, breaking, mixing, and turning.

Perfect for preparing new farming areas to taming stony grounds. Your go-to for satisfying diverse agricultural operational needs.

Engineered to perfection!

Versatile Tipping Trailers

Robust Series Rotary Tillers

Trailed & Mounted Harrows

Ploughs, Harrows, Rotary Tillers, Square Balers, Disc Ridgers, Tipping Trailers.

durability, offering farmers advanced solutions for cultivating fields of varying sizes and conditions, ultimately contributing to enhanced crop yields and agricultural productivity.

3. Rotary tillers: The Robust Series collection comprises equipment tailored for soil aeration, loosening, and uniform seedbed levelling, characterised by robust construction that enables efficient operation even in challenging soil conditions, all while maintaining high-performance standards.

4. Square Baler: JUPIDEX’s square baler is a specialised implement meticulously crafted for the collection and compression of hay, straw, or grass into conveniently squareshaped bales. Featuring a broad feeder and ingeniously engineered prongs, this baler ensures swift, precise, and efficient collection, even at elevated speeds. The inclusion of a shear bolt and slip clutch adds a layer of durability by safeguarding the baler’s transmission, even when subjected to demanding operational environments. Notably, the blade length of this machinery is adjustable, ranging from 0,3 metres to an extended 1,3 metres, offering farmers the flexibility to tailor their bale dimensions according to specific requirements.

JUPIDEX’s square baler embodies a commitment to innovative design, efficiency, and adaptability, catering to the diverse needs of modern hay and forage management.

6. Tipping trailers: The tipping trailer by JUPIDEX offers an exceptional degree of versatility in the loading and unloading of agricultural materials through its effortless self-tipping mechanism, significantly enhancing efficiency while saving valuable time and resources. The trailer’s construction is characterised by high-quality components, including a superior axle, bearing, hub, and tipping mechanism, which collectively contribute to its extended lifespan, enhanced reliability, and impressive durability.

JUPIDEX’s dedication to agricultural mechanisation development shines through its range of implements. By offering tools that maximise productivity while minimising negative ecological impact, the company aligns with the global movement towards responsible agriculture and improving yields.

In summary, JUPIDEX’s journey from its inception in 1999 to its current position as an African leader in agricultural machinery distribution reflects a legacy of innovation, quality, and commitment. Its extensive product lineup caters to the diverse needs of farmers on the continent, driving efficiency, sustainability, and prosperity in modern agriculture. The JUPIDEX name is synonymous with progress; a testament to its unwavering dedication to shaping the future of farming on the African continent.

5. Disc ridger: The disc ridger by JUPIDEX is an advanced implement designed to create ridges with a remarkable maximum width of 1 000 mm. Engineered with a robust box-type frame, this ridger is built to withstand heavy duty applications. The disc ridger offers a notable level of customisation, allowing users to adjust both the depth and size of the formed ridge according to specific land and crop requirements.

For more information on JUPIDEX’s wide range of agricultural products, visit their website, https://jupidex.co.za/ or contact them on (+27)33-3863574.

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Rethink your footprint, one pot at a time

Mary Carr has always been aware of the impact humans have on the planet. She has empowered two young ladies from a rural township to also help reduce other women’s footprint on the planet.

“I have always been acutely aware of my footprint on the planet,” says Mary. “This comes from a remote and very simple upbringing in some of the wildest places in Africa. My parents always instilled in their children that

we are custodians, not owners of the planet. A love for nature grew in me from a very young age. As a teenager, I marched in London against the slaughter of seal pups for fur coats!”

Mary and her husband Dick moved from Pretoria to the Klein-Karoo in 2004 and bought a farm, Rolbaken, in the Kammanassie area near Dysseldorp, which is situated halfway between Oudtshoorn and De Rust.

With their passion for the environment, the couple farmed organically raised lambs and chickens. The mutton, chickens and eggs were sought after as far afield as Cape Town. They sold the farm in 2021 and in 2022 moved to a farm in the Blossoms area on the way to George. “We are very happy here and I visit the ladies in Dysselsdorp about once a week.”

Dick, who has worked in conservation his whole working life, is at the age of 74 still involved with stewardship for the Eden to Addo Corridor Initiative, a non-government organisation.

Rethink Bags

Given their passion for the environment, Mary founded Rethink Bags in 2017 to create an awareness about the quantity of plastic we are pumping into our environment in the form of plastic bags.

“I began a small business to teach township women to sew and make reusable parachute material shopping bags. The focus was two-fold, namely, to provide work and purpose to ladies who could not go out to work, and to

provide an alternative to plastic shopping bags.

The original-named, the Pocket Bag, was made from parachute material that can fold up to the size of a R10 note and takes almost no space in a handbag, but that can hold as much as any plastic shopping bag, carry up to 12 kg weight, and is reusable for years.

Other bags followed, like the reusable and strong netting bags called

Yolandi Kiewiets with some of the goodies made from offcut pieces of material.

Mary Carr designed the ThermoBag, which is used for cooking food by keeping the heat of a pot of food that had been boiled for a few minutes inside the insulated bag.

ThermoBags are available in two sizes to contain 6-litre or 10-litre pots.

by Tisha Steyn

Veggie Bags, to hold loose fruit and vegetables bought from vegetable stores. Laundry Bags for underwear followed to use up extra netting materials.

Then followed bags made of offcut upholstery materials that were destined for landfill. These beautiful, strong materials were turned into a variety of other bags, including small vanity bags and strong and durable handbags.

Inevitably, cooking bags followed. “Some of the ladies were involved with CapeNature and the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR) to make cooking bags, called Wonderbags.

“These bags were distributed to

families in the GCBR to help women to cook using less electricity or firewood collected from areas that are already overgrazed and depleted of sizable trees. This was all part of a climate change workshop initiative. Since then, we have developed our own ThermoBag which, due to loadshedding and the expense of power and fuel, have become very popular with ladies in townships.”

In December 2022, Mary transferred the ownership of Rethink Bags, which belonged to her and Yolandi Kiewiets, to Yolandi and Jessica Malgas.

Yolandi and Jessica rent premises from the Catholic Mission in Dysselsdorp, from where they run the business.

“They do everything themselves and I serve as mentor and operations manager,” says Mary. “At present, I help with client liaison, fabric purchases online and bookkeeping. They run all the day-to-day business without me. They undertook and managed a stall entirely on their own at the Klein-Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees (KKNK) this year, and they made good money too!”

Mary is full of praise for these two women. “They are wonderful young women, and I wish the country had more of them. They are honest, hardworking, and committed to the success of their business.

“They create their own success through hard work. They learned how to sew, and moved on from being farmhands to businesswomen. They have received no grants, besides two in the early stages, which funded four industrial sewing machines and material for manufacturing the bags.

“The women have been promised computer and financial training by the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), so I hope they come to the party.” SEDA is responsible for the implementation of the small business plan of the national government.

“We are looking for opportunities to brand shopping bags for businesses and large corporates. We were doing that very successfully before the COVID-19 pandemic.”

ThermoBags

The ThermoBags are made of 100% cotton fabric. It consists of a base with pockets attached to it, which, when open, resembles a flower with petals. The base and pockets are filled with polystyrene balls, and so is the ‘lid’, a bag also filled with polystyrene.

Once the pot is put inside the bag, the lid is put on top and the bag is closed with a drawstring, which then resembles a big pumpkin. The bag is provided with two sturdy handles for carrying it around if necessary.

Using the bag

The bag is manufactured in two sizes, one to take a 6-litre pot, and a bigger

one for a 10-litre pot. When you want to cook rice, bring the pot to the boil on whatever heat source you are using, whether it is an electric or paraffin stove or brushfire. Simmer for five to seven minutes, then take off the heat.

Place a dishcloth in the bottom of the bag to protect it from stains on the pot or any spills. Put the pot inside, put the ‘lid’ on top, and, using the drawstring, pull the pockets of the bag up around the pot with the drawstring before securing the two ends of the drawstring in a bow.

“Set it aside, and an hour later your rice is cooked by the time you have finished the chicken curry to go with it …” suggests Mary.

Chicken, mince, stew, beans, and maize porridge, can be cooked in the bag, depending on how long a dish needs to cook. The principle applies

Yolandi Kiewiets operated a sewing machine for the first time in 2018, and now she is an expert.

A handbag and overnight bag made from discarded upholstery material.

Jessica Malgas hard at work in the premises they rent from the Catholic Mission Church in Dysseldorp.

Shopping bags made from parachute material replace plastic shopping bags and last many years.

to all food, but some foods may need a longer cooking time, such as samp (stampmielies) and beans, or tougher cuts of meat.

“The bag can keep food hot for hours to allow the contents to continue cooking,” explains Mary. “This saves a

lot of energy cooking things like rice and beans.”

With this bag, you save fuel, whether electricity, paraffin, or wood, and in addition there are much fewer toxic fumes from a brushfire.

The bag can also be used to raise bread dough or to make yoghurt or cheese, as it keeps the heat at a constant temperature.

Fashionable and everlasting sling bags are made of upholstery material.

No material goes to waste, but is turned into small bags that fit nicely into a handbag.

Where can you get yours?

The bags can be ordered from anywhere in South Africa. At present, they are not selling in neighbouring countries, but a bulk order could be more cost-effective as far as courier fees go. The bags retail for R300 for the 6-litre size and R450 for the 10-litre size. They make use of regular courier services, the cost of which is extra.

Contact details

For more information and to order bags, sent an e-mail to rethinkbags@gmail.com, or call Mary at (+27)72-248-4830.

Mary Carr with Yolande Kiewiets, left, and Jessica Malgas, centre, in the stall at the 2023 Klein-Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees (Klein Arts Festival).

Bags made from netting material are ideal for shopping fruit and vegetables.

A pot fits snugly inside the ThermoBag, and once the drawstring is tied and the lid pillow is put in place, the food can cook without any electricity, paraffin, or woodfire.

Young female farmer is breaking stereotype barriers Meet Thokozile Maphisa

F arming may not seem like an obvious career choice for a woman –but Thokozile Maphisa, the founder of Ikusasalethu Agricultural Projects, is at her happiest in the fields.

According to the Sustainability Initiative of South Africa’s study on Women and Gender in South African Agriculture, published in 2019, 52% of part-time workers in the agricultural industry are female. Only 34% of full-time workers are female, and when it comes to landholders, the figures are even more dismal: although 60 to 80% of smallholder farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa are women, only 15 to 20% are landholders.

Thokozile is one of the young women who are changing the face of the agricultural industry in South Africa, having experienced her first taste of farming on her mother’s farm. “My late brother and I used to spend many hours during school holidays and weekends pretending that we, too, were farmers, herding the clay cattle we made,” she recalls. “There’s something about being around plants and animals, seeing them grow and reproduce, that brings me peace.”

Today, Thokozile’s Ikusasalethu Agricultural Projects, which she runs on her mother’s farm – comprising 50 hectares of land near Harrismith in the Free State – produces yellow maize, sugar beans and soya beans, as well as calves. While her crops are sold to processing companies and feedlots, her calves are sold at auctions. She has

created work for four full-time and 60 seasonal workers.

Thokozile admits that she and the business have travelled a difficult road to reach this point. She started Ikusasalethu Agricultural Projects with just one calf in 2014. Although she planned to increase the number of cows to five, she encountered a major setback when some of her cattle were stolen. Undeterred, she remained focused on her goals, gradually expanding the scope of the project. In 2020, the project began producing yellow maize. The following year, she was joined in the venture by a shareholder, and expanded further by planting sugar beans and soya beans.

Thokozile used her entire savings to plant the current set of crops. She explains that she holds a part-time job in construction (where she works as a mechanical and piping supervisor) to fund her agricultural business, as it is difficult to obtain grant funding from the Department of Agriculture.

Thokozile explains that the business’s impressive growth has come as a result of hard work and dedication to problemsolving. Farming is not a profession for the faint-hearted: among the challenges that she has little control over (like the effects of climate conditions, theft, price fluctuations and disease), she also must contend with issues that often stymie entrepreneurs, like access to capital or inadequate resources; in this case, farming equipment and infrastructure.

Article supplied (by Loudhailer)

“We currently hire all equipment, although we hope to buy our own in future as this would help to bring down business costs. We are also looking to create storage facilities where we can store produce until prices increase,” she says.

Because Thokozile farms on the same land as her mother, the family have had to find a way to ensure their businesses operate in harmony. “Although our businesses are separate, we produce the same commodities on the same land. That can be challenging, because funders don’t see us as different entities; they seek to fund one farm.”

Personal conflicts are sometimes inevitable when working with family, but Thokozile says that they have found a way to navigate arguments. Her own approach is to give the issue some distance before sitting down to find a solution.

There are also advantages to this working relationship. “Our income stays in the family, which is a big plus. And, because we trust each other and understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses, our decision-making processes are simpler.”

Thokozile’s plans now are to build on the growth Ikusasalethu has already achieved. “We are hoping to secure grant funding which will allow us to build up our infrastructure, purchase our own land and equipment. Our next step will be to increase our range by introducing winter crops,” she concludes.

Thokozile Maphisa farms in the Harrismith area

Ever since she was a child, Thokozile had a passion for farming.

Daughter, mother, wife, and farmer cultivates her dreams

There is no formula for farming, and when you are a female farmer, juggling motherhood and a full-time career, you understand that even more. Farming itself is challenging: It is not easy to generate an income as well as growing food, but as long as you have passion and perseverance, you will find a way.

That is true for Koketso Mofokeng, farmer from the Madibeng district in Northwest, South Africa. “I was born and raised on a farm at De Wildt, near Brits,” she recalls. “I was raised by my grandmother who was a farm worker for 37 years.” This gave Koketso an understanding of the challenges lowincome families face and the dire need for both generating an income and producing food.

She started farming in 2018, growing produce on a three-hectare plot. Today she is successfully farming on two farms: one based in Sonop, Kareepoort, and another in Mooinooi, Elandskraal.

Through her farming operation, Diatla Tsheweu, she provides vegetables to big supermarket groups such as Boxer and Cassgro. Her business also serves as a space where students from the Tswane University of Technology can receive unpaid in-service training.

Passionate about farming since childhood

Koketso has been passionate about farming since childhood.

“Farming was a very big part of my childhood,” she explains. “My grandmother, Agnes Baloyi, and her sister, Sarah Baloyi, were both farm workers for a very long time. Both my parents were born on the farm where they met and fell in love. My uncles and mother never went to school. They started working on the farms when they were still young.”

Although Koketso worked as a photographer for a while after school, she ultimately turned back to agriculture. “My husband, Katiso, encouraged me to pursue my dream.” She launched her career as a farmer by completing an online course in agriculture.

The vegetable crops she grows include cabbage, bell peppers, green beans, and spinach.

Women bring something special to agriculture

Being a woman in a male dominated industry can be daunting, but being supported by your loved ones is a vital part of making it work. Just like Koketso, many female farmers are also mothers and wives who are traditionally responsible for taking care of the family.

“Balancing motherhood and working

on the farm full time can be challenging,” she admits. “I believe you need to have a supportive partner. My husband takes over when I cannot get to everything in the household, which gives me space to focus on work.”

The same goes for being a wife. “My husband understands that I am a farmer as well as being his wife. He supports my decisions and my hectic work schedule.”

Over time, Koketso has found that you should not try to separate motherhood and farming, but rather combine

by Maryna Steyn

the two. “I involve everyone in the farm, including my kids.”

In her opinion, women bring something very special to agriculture. “Women do not only farm to feed their pockets, they also farm to feed the community.” She believes it is the caretaking abilities of women that make them successful in agriculture.

Koketso’s advice for other women working in agriculture, especially working mothers, are to give themselves some leeway. “You need to be patient with yourself.”

Preparing spinach to go to market. Diatla Tsheweu, Koketso Mofokeng’s farming enterprise, provides vegetables to local supermarkets.

Charity Ndlovu, Koketso Mofokeng’s Farm Manager, supervises students from TUT getting practical experience on the farm. Thuli, Tefo, Madisha, and Lerato are checking if the cabbages are ready to be harvested. Koketso shows off the excellent green beans grown on the farm.

A vision of a pristine indigenous landscape

by Tisha Steyn

Juanita Wilmans is a woman with a mission. She cannot walk past a weed without removing it.

Trevor Dearlove, who found the Wilderness National Park during the early 80s, says invasive alien plants, black wattle and Port Jackson, were a problem even back then. “I suppose we will have to accept that it will still be a problem for our great-great grandchildren!”

Not if Juanita has a say: She is fighting a never-ending battle against these unwanted plants.

“I regard every weed that I pull not as an endless war that I have no part in, but rather as an opportunity to make a difference.”

Juanita is a landscape designer who founded Juanita Knox Designs 36 years ago. She lives in Wilderness on the Garden Route, and her landscape designs show her passion for indigenous plants.

Juanita’s view on weeds

Some people are daunted by the huge task of removing weeds. Not Juanita. “Sometimes looking at a weed-infested property, one feels so broken, like there’s nothing we can do. It just seems so overwhelming. But in everything I’ve done, I realised that just as it overwhelms us, every undesired plant that is removed makes an intrinsic difference to the ultimate landscape. Every weed that you pull out prevents another generation of weeds. Knowing that you are making such a massive difference encourages you to go on.”

She suggests using the weather in your favour. “Going out after the rain makes the work of removing weeds so much easier. Also, if you go out when the plants are still small, it is easier to remove them.”

It is also of vital importance to follow up.

“When you take the approach that if you are going to do this, and commit to it, you’ll do what it takes. In that way the commitment has lasting value for all involved.”

Her philosophy is that humans need to know that what they are doing has value. “In some cultures, acceptance is the only way to peace. My way to find peace is to make the change that I can, knowing that everything I do each day is ultimately making a difference.”

Ex-Rhodesian

Juanita was born in Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe. She came to South Africa in 1981. “I was one of the children of the migrant families who came here with R1 000; five of us in a caravan and we had to make it work.”

She has always been a hard worker. “As a child, my mother used to give me pocket money for pulling out piles of weeds, and I think that is where the passion started.”

She developed a career as a landscaper from 1987. “I had to learn about plants and the study of Alien Invasive Plants was part of that, only in those days they weren’t called AIP’s. I have always been passionate about doing things right. Removing the weeds and making a difference has always been part of my landscaping process.”

During her stay in Johannesburg, Juanita Wilmans cleaned up the neighbourhood in Linbro Park.

Cleaning up unsightly overgrown plots can uplift an otherwise derelict area.

Juanita Wilmans and her team cleaning up an area near Victoria Bay during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Neglected areas in the neighbourhood were thoroughly cleaned up.

A member of Juanita's team cleans up pampas grass, which is still being planted in gardens despite being a declared weed.

Linbro Park

While living in Johannesburg from 2006 to 2019, she used to clear the weeds in Linbro Park. “The weeds came up as the decay of the city enveloped the neglected plots. I used to call it the ‘place where weeds grow’.”

Being a keen horse rider and cyclist, on her trails she observes the sites overgrown with weeds. “Once I have seen the weeds, it creates a need in my body to go to remove it. It is almost unbelievable – I must go and deal with them.” While out she forms lists

in her head as she plans how to return and remove them.

In Linbro Park, she would go out with her landscape team, or even homeless people who needed a temporary job, to remove the AIP’s. “It has always been a passion of mine to do something good for nature.

“I have been involved with SALI (South African Landscape Institution) as a member since 1992, then nine years on the committee and as the chairperson in 2003/2004, where the members of SALI and SANA (South African Nursery Association) were co-opted by National Department of Agriculture to help develop an alien invasive list.” The list formed part of the initial CARA (Conservation of African Resources Act no 43 of 1983) legislation which was overwritten by NEMA (National Environmental Management Act 107/1998). This was in conjunction with Working for Water and Environmental affairs.

“All the information is out there, but few people seem to care about removing these invasive aliens,” she says.

Wilderness

In 2004, she bought land in Wilderness. “I fell in love with the pristine indigenous landscapes here and made it my next big mission to clear the whole Touw River Valley”. To do so, she had to get involved with the Touw River Conservancy, as she needed more than her own two hands to get the job done.

“We achieved massive success, but unfortunately, I had to learn that people have their own opinions on weeds. It is a big challenge to encourage people to feel as passionate as me to solve the problem …”

She has worked with landowners, people on the street, ratepayers’ associations – anybody who was willing to roll up their sleeves and do something. She has also been involved in alien awareness campaigns. “I like to educate people and share my knowledge and knowhow with them.”

No challenge is too big. Whether making use of her regular landscaping team or any number of unskilled people in the area, she tackles any plot that needs clearing with basic gardening tools.

“We do not know what the future holds, but will strive to make a small difference every day. Happy weeding!”

For more information, contact Juanita Wilmans at (+27) 81049-0820 or send an e-mail to Admin@juanitaknoxdesigns.co.za

Juanita Wilmans makes use of any pair of hands available to do the job, in this instance unemployed persons.

Members of the Touw River Conservancy lend a hand to clear alien vegetation.

A thoroughly cleared plot of aliens in Wilderness Heights.

by Annemarie Bremner

Technews: Take farming to the future with drones

Derek Kruger walks around the hologram image of Orchard SA07/13 and frowns. The report from the drone swarm checking the sugar index of the oranges to determine the best harvesting time has also pointed out a calcium deficiency in the leaves of the north facing rows of trees. The images clearly show the tips of the leaves curling in.

Calcium deficiency is a tricky problem. It can result from many different variables.

Derek looks out of the window of his office above the new packhouse in Birambo, Rwanda, just in time to see an autonomous BVLOS (beyond visual line of sight) sprayer drone coming in to the self-charging docking station. Farming with tea and vegetables in the mountains of Rwanda has been made possible with the assistance of the latest drone technology which allows them to stay comfortable within the limits of the allotted carbon footprint.

With a sigh he calls up Sarie, the South African agricultural version of Siri. As always, she promptly answers in her well-modulated voice.

“Good morning, Derek. I was wondering when you would ask my advice.”

He cannot resist teasing her a bit. “Actually, I just need you to organise

me a cup of coffee. And please use the 2030 beans from our plot in Cameroon.”

“Ah, going for vintage this morning,” she remarks, and almost instantaneously the aroma of freshly grounded beans fills the room. “Well, are you ready now to face your calcium challenge?”

“Yes, please run down all the checks.”

As Sarie talks him through the tests she has already ordered, he looks at the glass screen of his desk. Although paper is coming back in fashion after the hemp industry proved compliance to all sustainability parameters, he prefers his old-fashioned screen reports.

“As you can see, the soil sample collection drone has already fed the sample into the AI-analyser. There is no issue there, the soil content is good, although the moisture level was a bit lower than expected. The leaf analysis, however, also shows that there are other deficiencies, notably iron and potassium. The dosage applicator reports that the correct nutrient quantities have been measured out and fed into the irrigation system. What would you like me to do?”

Derek smiles. “This one is on me,” he says and activates the satphone on his wrist. Back home in South Africa his son, Paul, answers sleepily.

“Morning son, have you been playing ‘find the bone’ with Robodog in Orchard 13?”

“Yes Dad, how did you know?”

“Easy, there is something wrong with the water feed to the last rows of trees. I believe that dog of yours has been digging and damaging the lines. Get yourself down there and fix it.”

SA's small drones’ market is seeing fast growth, and is estimated to reach $134,5 million by 2025, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 22,35% from 2020 to 2025, according to research firm Industry ARC.

(16 Sept 2022)

Sarie laughs. “Well Sir, again you have proven that humans can still solve some of the problems caused by them. Would you like a report on the progress with the reforestation programme in Ethiopia? The seed pod shooting drones have been performing exceptionally well in the clear weather.”

2023: The new AGRAS T40 is equipped with the Coaxial Twin Rotor design, enabling it to carry a spray load of 40 litres and a spread load of 50 kg, making it useful for larger operations, even for grain farming. (Source: UVSSA.co.za)

While Sarie drones on about the reforestation programme, Derek thinks back to 2023 when he, fresh out of college, had to convince his father to invest in drone technology. He still remembers the list of functions and new technology in the making that he compiled at that time with the help of the relatively primitive AI website of the time, Chat GTP.

All those technologies became commonplace, but also many more.

• Improved sensors and payloads: Agricultural drones are equipped with advanced sensors and payloads, including hyperspectral and multispectral cameras, LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), thermal imaging, and even specialised sensors for measuring soil conditions and crop health. These sensors enable more precise and comprehensive data collection, allowing farmers to make betterinformed decisions.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning: Integration of AI and machine learning algorithms is becoming more common in agricultural drones. These technologies help in processing the vast amounts of data collected by drones and analysing it to identify patterns, anomalies, and crop health indicators. AI-powered drones can provide real-time insights and actionable recommendations to farmers.

• Autonomous and swarm capabilities: Drones with autonomous flight capabilities are being developed, enabling them to follow predefined flight paths or execute complex tasks without continuous manual control. Swarm technol-

in 2022, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21,2% between 2023 and 2032.

ogy, where multiple drones work together collaboratively, is also emerging, allowing for efficient coverage of large areas and coordination in data collection.

• Long-endurance drones: Battery life and flight time are improving, leading to the development of long-endurance drones capable of covering more significant distances and remaining in the air for extended periods. This advancement

is particularly valuable for largescale agricultural operations.

• Precision application systems: Agricultural drones are integrated with precision application systems, allowing targeted and localised delivery of fertilisers, pesticides, and other inputs. This reduces waste, minimises environmental impact, and enhances resource efficiency.

• Improved software and analytics platforms: The software that accompanies agricultural drones is evolving, offering user-friendly interfaces, data visualisation tools, and analytics platforms. These enhancements help farmers interpret the collected data more effectively to make data-driven decisions.

• Weather and environmental moni-

toring: Some agricultural drones are equipped with weather and environmental monitoring sensors, providing real-time data on temperature, humidity, wind speed, and other weather-related parameters that influence crop growth.

• Hybrid drones: Hybrid drones that combine features of fixed-wing and multirotor drones are being developed. These hybrid designs offer the benefits of both types, such as long-range coverage and vertical take-off and landing capability.

• Risk management and insurance: The integration of agricultural drones with crop insurance and risk management services is on the rise. Drones provide valuable data for accurate crop yield

Market.us predicts that the agricultural drones market will exceed USD11,08 billion by 2032 from USD1,7 billion

2023: Drones equipped with hyperspectral, multispectral, or thermal sensors can identify areas that require changes in irrigation, nutrient deficiencies, and pests not visible to the human eye. (Source: UVSSA. co.za)

• estimation, damage assessment, and claims processing.

Derek even provided his father with photographs and company names. It was quite difficult at that time to get permits and licensing to fly drones, and drone companies were delivering “in-the-box” solutions by deploying their own drones and collecting the information or delivering the services farmers needed.

Getting involved in the drone business at that time was indeed a wise decision and it opened the door to Africa for the Krugers. The growth in the industry was even more remarkable than the most optimistic projections.

The use of drones between 2023 and 2030 shot up with much more than the predicted 41% and now, in 2040, farming without drones would be unthinkable. There was a time before global control standards were agreed upon when drones were crowding air space to such an extent that many calls went up for the banning of all info-drones in favour of satellite information services.

It was a valid point, but then again, no satellite can give you the close monitoring, physical sample collection, and even the mobility you need to manage today’s complex farming activities, Derek thinks, while strapping himself into his Repressed Sound High Performance transporting drone which will take him to the next stop on his list of personal visits, the freshwater kelp

2023: Valmont, the holding company of Valley Irrigation, recently completed an industry-first long-distance (124 km) beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone inspection flight enabled by 5G-connectivity. The flight proves that drones are a viable, safe, and efficient alternative to helicopters for monitoring infrastructure. (Source: valmont.com)

farm in Lake Kivu. There seems to be a problem with the communication of the underwater

needed.

2023: Self-charging autonomous flying of drones became a reality with this South African developed docking station. (Source: Skydock.co.za)

2022: The company AirSeed Technologies has developed a drone that can fly autonomously and plant over 40 000 seed pods per day. It can be used for reforestation or commercial planting of trees. (Source: airseedtech.com)

2023: An easy way to move from farm to farm is to get into your own passenger drone! (Source: mashable.com)

2040: Taking farming to the future!

drones harvesting the kelp. A human touch is

Chicken breeds part 2:

Layer hens

An Amberlink hen typically lays around 280 brown eggs per year. The eggs can be any size between medium and large, but tend to be on the larger side. Many factors, including the chickens’ diet and environment, can influence their ability to lay eggs. A purebred hen or breeder hen will stop laying quality eggs between the ages of six and eight years of age.

Hy-line

Another variety of hybrid laying hens is the Hy-line. They can be found in a wide array of colours, from white to brown. The two most common colours in Africa are Hy-line Brown and Hy-line Silver Brown.

Why are hybrid chicken layer breeds so popular among farmers? This article will seek to provide the answers.

The creation of hybrid chickens requires the mating of two or more pure chicken breeds, with additional matings possible in the future. In some cases of hybridisation, meat or egg-laying birds are produced. In recent years, breeders have been able to produce hybrids with eggs in more desirable colours, more eggs per year, or increased size, or yolk per egg.

These chicken breeds are developed through careful, scientific selection and genetic engineering to maximise traits useful for commercial egg production.

Genetically pure offspring cannot be produced from a hybrid parent. Chickens bred from a male and female of certain breeds will produce offspring that are a unique mix of characteristics from both parents.

The use of hybrids, as opposed to pure breeds, offers numerous benefits. Because their blood lines are so different from their parents, the offspring tend to be extremely healthy and physically fit. The term “hybrid vigour” is used to describe the phenomenon that occurs when two different bird breeds are mated. The resulting offspring is superior to both of its parents.

Amberlink

Mixed offspring of a male Light Sussex and a female Rhode Island Red resulted in the Amberlink chicken breed.

The cream-coloured feathers of an Amberlink chicken have reddish overtones, and they form beautiful patterns not only on the neck but also on the wings.

This type of hen is highly sought after because of her calm nature and her ability to lay about 280 eggs per year. If you are looking for an attractive and

productive backyard chicken, the Amberlink is a sensible choice.

These birds should be considered a part of your backyard poultry flock if you want to get the most out of them with the least amount of work. Amberlink chickens are quite active and prefer a free-range feeding system, despite the fact that an adult male can weigh up to 2,7 kilogrammes and a female up to 2,3 kilogrammes.

The free-range system meets their nutritional requirements without confining the birds to a cage. Instinctively foraging, Amberlink chickens thrive when allowed to roam freely in the grass and find their own food.

The Amberlink chicken is a resilient breed that can thrive in many environments. They are able to regulate their body temperature and lay eggs continuously throughout the year, making them well suited to colder climates.

Hy-line chickens are favoured for their submissive demeanour and lowmaintenance requirements in the backyard coop. Despite hens weighing only 2,2 kilogrammes, they are extremely strong.

Some breeders claim that the Silver Brown is the most common layer in the world. She can start laying at 18 weeks of age and produce 320 eggs annually. Her eggs consistently weigh 63 grammes and have a uniform brown colour.

The Brown Hy-line hens lay eggs reliably until the age of 80 weeks, and has a high feed conversion rate. The eggs are heavier and have a slightly better internal quality.

Due to their resilience, adaptability, and high degree of feather retention, the Brown Hy-line is a popular breed for free-range environments. Both the Silver Brown and the Brown have a lengthy lifespan.

Amberlink chickens have beautiful neck and wing patterns of creamcoloured feathers with reddish overtones. (Source: sasmallholder.co.za)

by Natasha Pansegrouw

Hy-line chickens come in a wide range of colours, from white to brown. (Source: zootecnicainternational.com)

Lohmann Brown

The Lohmann Brown is a cross between the Rhode Island Red and the White Rock chickens.

Lohmann Brown hens are known for producing some of the best eggs in the industry at a rapid pace. This hybrid breed can thrive in a wide range of environments.

Lohmann Brown chickens have a reputation for being of superior quality. They can start laying eggs at 19 weeks, and produce 360 eggs over the course of a year. Each of their brown eggs can weigh 65 grammes.

The improved laying capacity of chickens can be traced back to Lohmann breeders. The Lohmann Brown matures quickly and can lay eggs for up to 72 weeks of age.

Lohmann Browns are known for their slim build and light bone structure. Adult roosters can grow to 3 to 4 kilogrammes in body weight, making them significantly heavier than hens. In their prime, hens can weigh up to 2,2 kilogrammes.

The docile and social nature of Lohmann chickens makes them ideal for backyard flocks. These chickens are bred for their commercial viability and raised on large-scale egg farms. In addition to their commercial use, Lohmann chickens do well on smaller, more environmentally conscious farms.

Boschveld

The Boschveld chicken is a unique cross between three native southern African chicken breeds, namely Venda, Matabele and Ovambo. The bird’s

The Potchefstroom Cuckoo’s tolerance of the dry climate of Southern Africa is due to its distinct genetic makeup.

she matures, her eggs are larger. The yellow yolks are delicious and visually appealing. The Boschveld is a rare and practical breed that offers its owners many benefits.

Potchefstroom Cuckoo

The eggs laid by Lohmann Brown hens are considered among the highest quality in the industry. (Source: desobry.co)

feathers are a mottled, spotted pattern of black, brown, and white.

The Boschveld chicken, while not the largest breed, is known for its strength and muscularity. Its long, slender neck is held high, adding to its already distinctive posture.

This breed is popular with hobbyists and small-scale farmers because they are hardy and adaptable. They are claimed to be fantastic at finding food and assisting with pest management in fields and gardens.

It is possible to reduce the use of chemical pesticides by employing their use in gardens. These chickens are resilient and rarely fall ill, even in the harshest environments. Boschveld chickens are economical because they require little in the way of care from humans.

The Potchefstroom Cuckoo is a cross between the Black Australorp, the White Leghorn and the Barred Plymouth Rock. The Potchefstroom Cuckoo’s unique genetic composition makes it resistant to the dry climate of Southern Africa. The ability of the Potchefstroom chickens to adapt to both hot and cold climates makes them a popular choice for local farmers.

The Potchefstroom Cuckoo is wellknown for its hardiness.

The breed’s resistance to disease and stress allows it to survive and even thrive where other chickens perish. This is why the Potchefstroom Cuckoo is so important in the South African agricultural economy.

The Potchefstroom Cuckoo is selectively bred for its large, light brown eggs, which average 56 grammes in weight. One Cuckoo hen lays between 200 and 250 eggs per year.

References

Azeem, S. (2022) Chicken breeds. ZPoultry. Available at: https:// zpoultry.com/category/chickenbreeds/

The feathers of a Boschveld chicken feature a spotted pattern in shades of black, brown, and white. (Source: Facebook by Tshepo Tshambani)

Despite their homely appearance, Boschveld hens are excellent layers, laying 200 eggs per year on average. Hens start laying eggs at about 24 weeks of age. When the hen is young, she lays small eggs, but as

Staff Reporter. (2021). Choose your chicken. SA Smallholder. Available at: https://sasmallholder. co.za/2021/05/01/choose-yourchicken/

Herb and spice production part 7: Setting yourself up to grow

by Maryna Steyn

Becoming a spice producer requires a lot of planning. Just like any other farming operation, you need to consider input costs, labour, market access, and your return on investment. With so many factors to keep in mind, knowing where to start can be overwhelming.

By the end of this article that also marks the end of this series, you should have a better understanding of where to start in your spice endeavours.

Market research

The first steps in setting up your herb and spice production is to conduct market research. Since there are so many different spices, deciding which crop you will plant is vital. You need to determine which spice or herb is in demand in your area. There is no use in growing and trying to sell a product that is already widely available because the market saturation will prevent you from turning a profit.

Once you have narrowed down the list of potential crops and determined the best option for marketing, you can investigate which spice to plant.

Not all spices may grow well in the climate you live in, so take time to look at all the climatic requirements that the plants need.

Set up budget and business plan

Setting up a business plan and a budget goes hand in hand. Afterall, without a business plan, how will you know what you need to budget for, and without a budget, how can you bring your business plan to life?

For your business plan, add the following elements:

• A summary of what you intend to achieve with your business

• A description of your business

• A SWOT analysis (list the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats surrounding your business venture)

• What you intend to sell

• How you will reach your customers

• Financial plan that looks at the input costs, expected return, and possible profit

In your financial plan, you will need to keep track of your expenses and plan ahead for what those will be. Remember that your inputs include:

• The rent of land if you do not own any

• Cost of seed, seedlings, or saplings

• Cost of fertiliser

• Infrastructure such as renting cold rooms or storage space

• Equipment that needs to be purchased

• Irrigation costs

• Labour and training

Identify space and preparing for planting

Setting up a spice production is not going to be a quick money-making

Spices such as cinnamon and cloves come from trees. Aniseed comes from flowering plants. (Source: Pixabay)

scheme. A field of herbs will take time to grow just like regular vegetable crops, but spices may take longer to mature. Spices are derived from a range of different plants and plant sections. Cloves for instance, are harvested from the flower of the clove tree. Cinnamon, on the other hand, is harvested tree bark and nutmeg are seeds from a different tree.

Therefore, identifying space and preparing the area to be planted will be vastly different for trees and shrubs in comparison to leafy green herbs. You will need to closely look at the requirements for each plant when conducting your research.

If you do not own land, you will need to consider renting land. Also take this into consideration if you are going to plant trees that will be on the property much longer than herb crops.

Thereafter, you can prepare the space you have allocated according to your crops’ needs.

Will you be selling fresh herbs or dry it? Consider what your market requires (Source: This is Engineering on Pexels)

Source: Affif Ramdhasuma on Pexels

Before you start, consider the equipment you will need to use, where to find them and how much it will cost. (Source: Pixabay)

Source inputs, equipment, and infrastructure

Inputs include seed, saplings or seedlings, fertiliser or compost, water, and labour. It may also include pesticides and fungicides.

When sourcing these elements, ensure that you obtain it from a trustworthy provider that distributes quality products. You do not want to end up purchasing unhealthy seedlings that will die soon after you have bought them.

With regards to equipment, you do not necessarily need specialised equipment, but you also need to consider the cost and where to obtain your equipment, whether it is a rake or a tractor.

Under the category of infrastructure, there are many factors to consider. Infrastructure relates to any poles, structures, netting or even greenhouses that need to be constructed to help your crops flourish. It also includes irrigation systems, for instance, drip lines, spray tips, pivots, irrigators, power supply for pivots, and pumps.

Your infrastructure may also include storage buildings for equipment or harvested crops. You may need to make use of a cold room to keep herbs cool to prevent wilting before selling them. In this case, consider the fridges you will need or facilities you need to rent.

Processing, packaging, and storage

Before planting your crops, consider what you will do with your harvested crop. It does not help to plant a crop and then you do not have a plan with what you are going to do with your harvest (aside from selling it). Therefore, give it some thought if you are going to process, package, or at least store the products before going to market.

Every spice or herb needs to be harvested and stored differently. Parsley, for instance, can be cut and sold fresh or dried. But coriander seeds are harvested and dried before it is sold whole or grounded.

If you sell fresh, green herbs, you need to think about how you are keep -

Depending on the size and requirements of your herb production, you may need infrastructure such as irrigation systems, greenhouses, and storage rooms. (Source: Pixabay)

ing it fresh until you can get to the market. Depending on the amount harvested, you might need to keep it in a fridge or cold room.

When drying or milling spices, there may be different requirements for each spice regarding the conditions it needs to kept in.

If you are selling directly to a fresh food market, packaging is of less importance, except if it makes transportation easier. Consider tying your herbs in bushels or packing your spices into sealable containers. You can also research what works best for each product.

Market access

While your crop is in field, your trees maturing and your plants growing, you can plan exactly how you want to sell your products. By now you should already know which herbs and spices are in demand, so this would only be the logistics of bringing the consumer and product to each other.

Find out where the market in your area is where you can sell your products. You can also reach out to community members and let them know you will be harvesting shortly.

Alternatively, you can sell your spice to other businesses like shops, restaurants or even spice millers.

Regulations

The regulations you need to consider when working with foodstuffs will differ from country to country. Basic steps you can take to ensure that your product is safe for human consumption is to always keep your hands clean when working with the harvested crop. Follow basic hygienic guidelines in keeping your work environment clean and safe. Ensure a clean working area when cutting, milling, or drying the spices.

Sources:

A complete guide on starting a Spice Business in South Africa (2022) Available at: https://www.kitchenhutt.co.za/acomplete-guide-on-starting-a-spicebusiness-in-south-africa/

Edom, S. (2023) How to start a lucrative spice farming business in Nigeria: The Complete Guide, StartupTipsDaily. Available at: https://startuptipsdaily.com/ spice-farming-business-nigeria-africa/

Roberti, D. (2021) Start a spice business, LinkedIn. Available at: https:// www.linkedin.com/pulse/start-spicebusiness-damian-roberti/

TRUiC Team (2023) How to start a spice business, HowToStartAnLLC.com. Available at: https://howtostartanllc.com/ business-ideas/spices

Farmers are preparing the soil for planting. (Source: Safari Consoler on Pexels)

When planning for your business, also consider how you will package or process your crops. Will you tie them into bushels when harvesting? You might also need facilities to store the product if you are going to dry or cool it.

(Source: Roman Odintsov on Pexels)

Financial literacy in agriculture

Knowledge of and application of financial terms or language is an ongoing process that requires continuous assessment and improvement. Not all terms are used in the everyday operation of an agribusiness, therefore activities such as inter alia, reading and listening to business related information aid immensely.

Articles of incorporation is the legal documentation of the business’s creation, including name, type of business, and type of business structure or incorporation. The creation or processing of this paperwork is one of the first tasks required to be undertaken to operate a business. Once submitted, the agribusiness’ articles of incorporation are kept on file with the appropriate governmental agencies or departments.

As a business is required to pay taxes, it is usually assigned a unique identity, usually referred to as an EIN (Employer Identification Number (EIN) or PIN (Personal Identification Number). This term of course varies from country to country. Once the business is registered with the government tax body/authority/department, the EIN/PIN will be assigned and mailed to the business address. This number never changes, and it may be requested for business transactions.

A franchise agreement is a contract made between an agribusiness and a larger company that gives the agribusiness the right to operate as satellites of the larger company in a certain territory for a given period of time. The use of this

allows the small agribusiness to take advantage of a brand name that is already familiar in the marketplace and to apply an already tested business process or operational plan.

Bankruptcy is a tool for businesses with severe financial challenges. The majority of the outstanding debts can be paid for or reduced through repayment of debts over time, or an opportunity to completely eliminate them. Agribusiness should be mindful that opting for bankruptcy should be given careful thought because it will have a negative effect on the business’s credit score.

Businesses can be classified according to their types or sizes. In terms of types there can be sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation and a limited liability company (LLC).

A sole proprietorship is a business owned and operated by a single person. The tax and legal liabilities of the business are accounted for by the owner. This means that there is no legal separation between the business and the owner.

When two or more individuals participate in the running of an agribusiness, it is knowns as a partnership. These individuals contribute resources and/or money to the business and share the profits and losses of the business. The shared profits and losses are recorded on each partner's tax return. The sharing of these depends on the shareholding structure which is usually elaborated in the company/business registration paperwork.

by Tapuwa Mashangwa

– Part 4

In the event of a group of people acting as a single entity, the business is known as a corporation and the transition into this arrangement is known as incorporation. The owners are commonly described as shareholders who exchange consideration for the corporation's common stock. Incorporating a business releases owners of the financial liability of business obligations, however a corporation comes with unfavourable taxation rules for the owners of the business.

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a fairly new business structure. It made its appearance in Wyoming 1977 and other states in the 1990s. A limited liability company combines the pass-through taxation benefits of a partnership with the limited liability benefits of a corporation.

Among the businesses classified in terms of size are small businesses, midsized enterprises and large businesses.

Small businesses usually refer to small owner-operated companies. Such businesses are overseen by one person or a small group of people with fewer than 100 employees. Typical companies found in this category are family, home-based, agri-clothing, agri-book companies, and small manufacturers.

These types of businesses can qualify for loans, grants, and in some countries for contracts or tenders where the governments limit competition to help small businesses acquire contracts or tenders.

Mid-sized enterprises are mediumsized companies with usually 100 to 249

(Source: minnwestbank.com)

employees or $10 million to less than $1 billion in annual gross sales.

Large businesses function with 250 or more employees and acquire more than $1 billion in gross receipts. They can be publicly-traded companies through which they issue corporate stock to finance operations. Usually, they are based in one country with international operations, and are organised by departments, such as human resources, finance, marketing, sales, and research and development.

According to Hayes (2022), unlike small and mid-sized enterprises, owned by a person or group of people, large organisations often separate their tax burden from their owners, who usually do not manage their companies but instead, an elected board of directors enacts most business decisions.

Examples of large agribusiness are Cargill, the Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (ADM), Bayer, John Deere and CHN Industrial.

References

Ag operating loans: What are they and how do you get ready? Available at: https://www.minnwestbank. com/hubfs/blog/images/8d672c82e3ca-42d2-ae29-859f74b5bb66postImage.png

20 key business terms every professional should know. (2023) Available at: https://www.suitably.com/blogs/ well-suited/20-key-business-termsevery-professional-should-knoww Practical business terms. (2023) Available at: https://www.practicalbusinessskills.com/resources/ glossary-of-terms

Basic financial terms. Available at: https://www.studysmarter.co.uk/ explanations/business-studies/introduction-to-business/basic-financialterms/

Wood, M. (2020). Business finance. 60 Business and Finance Terms You Should Absolutely Know. Available at: https://www.fundera.com/blog/ business-finance-terms-and-definitions

Hayes, A. (2022) What Is a Business? Understanding Different Types and Company Sizes. Available at: https://www.investopedia.com/ terms/b/business.asp

CFI Team (2022) Financial Literacy

- The cognitive understanding of financial components and skills. Available at: https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/resources/management/financial-literacy/

by Tisha Steyn

Clayton and Roxy Sanders-Perrin’s Wildflower Honey won a special award for what judges believe could be the best honey in the world at two recent honey competitions, namely the Cape Honey Festival in Paarl and the Africa Apimondia Regional Conference in Durban.

At Apimondia, Wildflower Honey achieved the Special award as the Best Bottle of Honey among 152 entrants at the international symposium. It also won 1st prize in the Light Honey Category and 1st prize for Citrus Honey. This is a remarkable achievement as the couple became full-time beekeepers only three years ago and entered competitions for the first time this year.

Nature lovers

"I was born and bred in Hout Bay in Cape Town,” says Clayton. “Besides being very sporty, I have always had a love affair with nature and spent much of my youth exploring the Cape outdoors.”

Roxy, his wife, is a ‘farm girl’ from the northeastern parts of South Africa where she ran a cattle farm and managed sales and marketing of her family’s business, and she shares Clayton’s love for nature.

Big leap

Clayton worked in the rope access industry, which is the professional use of ropes to do inspections, maintenance, and other types of work, which took him to places around the world. “It was

an exciting time in my life, but the best part of it all was always coming home to the Cape.”

In 2020, he took the big leap to leave his offshore career to invest all his time and money in Wildflower Honey. “I wanted to be home with my family and work closer to nature. We have so much passion for what we do.”

Wildflower Honey

There is a lot of emotion invested in their business name, Wildflower Honey. “Roxy moved to the Cape during the month of August. She was so mesmerised with the sight of wildflowers popping up all over that she even had wildflowers tattooed on her back!”

Clayton wanted their business logo to be based on Roxy’s tattoo to give it a personal touch. “The resilience of a wildflower is inspiring and that is exactly what it takes to start your own business, especially with something that is affected by the elements of nature! “The same month the business name was officially registered, their daughter Isabella was conceived. “She is most definitely our precious Little Wildflower!”

Family-run business

The business is run by Clayton and Roxy. “I am Wildflower’s only beekeeper with the help of my right-hand man, Talent Mugumira, and occasionally our son Ethan pitches in to help during school holidays.”

Roxy focuses on sales and marketing and has started a side-line operation

of, among others, beeswax candles and lip balms with the help of Elina Samati.

Following the flowers

At present, they have about 600 hives, but there will be more after the season’s splits. “The hives are based all over the Western Cape and we drive long distances to work them. I guess that is one of the challenges of beekeeping: the honey price has become related to the price of diesel!”

(Source: Wildflower Honey).

600 hives are placed in suitable spots with ample forage throughout the Western Cape. (Source: Wildflower Honey).

"The colour and moisture content of the citrus honey are perfect, and the aroma is distinctly citrus without a hint of wildflowers," according to beekeeper Louis van Zyl.

They must also keep moving the hives around depending on the season and the available forage, which includes canola, ‘bloublom’ or Paterson’s curse, eucalyptus, fynbos, citrus, and a myriad of other flowers.

Fruits of the hive

They produce approximately ten tonnes of honey and about 300 kg of beeswax throughout the year. About 100 kg of propolis is harvested once a year. Most of the honey is sold to delis and boutique coffee shops in and around Cape Town.

Quality does not come cheap

Clayton believes cheap honey is never real honey. “Sadly, there has been an influx of honey from China, mostly pure glucose. We pride ourselves in our honey being pure, raw, and untouched.”

The couple hopes to educate people about the importance of buying real honey and supporting local beekeepers. “It is vital that we protect our bees and grow their numbers. If we don't have bees, we will starve.”

Bees need trees

Another pressing issue for beekeepers is the loss of foraging land. “With eucalyptus trees being cut down and some farmers using harmful chemicals, it has become increasingly difficult to find safe spaces for our bees. We have been very blessed to find ethical farmers who are happy to have our bees on their land. It is a win-win situation for farmers, the beekeeper and most importantly, the bees!”

Another issue is the ransacking and destruction of hives by honey thieves. “Finding a good site is one thing, but then there is also the issue of security.” Also, honey badgers that demolish hives for bee larvae are another threat. “However, this is a part of nature, and you must factor this in and write off the losses.”

Best bottle of all

“We have never, ever doubted the quality and pureness of what we produce, but we were absolutely overwhelmed when our honey won best bottle overall at The Cape Honey Festival, and, very hugely, at the African Apimondia Symposium. Being relatively new in the industry, this was really an immense moment for us,” says Clayton.

Elize Lundall-Magnison, a member of the Honey Judges Guild at the African Regional Apimondia Symposium, said Wildflower Honey’s Citrus Honey is delicious. “Reg Morgan, another judge, said it tasted like ‘re al orange honey’, and I agree. It was a beautiful honey with a very light colour and a unique taste and aroma. It had a high density that would not easily crystalise.”

Patience pays off

Clayton believes that when you work with nature, it works with you. “There is also definitely something to be said for our Capensis bee – they are the master blenders of nectar!”

He also believes that it pays off to be extra patient when working with your bees. “I try to take my time when I work our bees. I am extra meticulous, paying careful attention to the little details in each hive.”

Pollination plans

Clayton and Roxy plan to put a lot more hives into pollination services this year. “We have had very fruitful results with our pollinations and have established

Clayton and Roxy all suited up to work with the hives in the family-run business. (Source: Wildflower Honey).

Clayton and Roxy's son Ethan helps with the beekeeping during school holidays. (Source: Wildflower Honey).

Isabella, Clayton and Roxy's daughter, loves being a bee. (Source: Wildflower Honey)

Clayton runs 600 hives with the help of only one helper. (Source: Wildflower Honey)

good working relationships with our farmers. We hope to gain more pollination contracts as we are confident of our bees’ capabilities.”

Liquid gold

They also hope to get into more delis, coffee shops, gift stores, road stalls, boutique hotels, and the like. “Our honey is so close to home; we are not aiming for a mass-produced market. We would rather have our special little bottles of ‘Liquid Gold’ be enjoyed by families around the country who appreciate knowing all the hard work that goes into every drop, for both beekeeper and bee.”

Next stop, London

They are also hoping for sponsors to assist them to get to the honey awards in London to compete against the world's best. “I think South African honey is just super special and we would love to be able to showcase our honey in London and make a positive impact for our country.”

Most of all, they want to play a role in helping to grow the South African honey industry by educating everybody about the values of pure honey. They also want to team up with organisations to donate hives and educate rural communities across Africa.

Mentors

Since Clayton always wanted to farm, beekeeping provides the opportunity to experience a farming lifestyle and work in nature. He has always been intrigued by bees and in 2018 started beekeeping as a “serious hobby”. “I got the opportunity to work under Brenden Ashley-Cooper, who has been my mentor from the start. Beekeepers like himself and Louis van Niekerk have been so generous with their knowledge and advice. I will remain forever grateful for all their freely shared wisdom.”

They are also thankful to Riette van Zyl and the rest of the team at the Western Cape Bee Association, SABIO, and the Honey Judges Guild for awarding them the opportunity to participate – and succeed.

Clayton and Roxy Sanders-Perrin's Wildflower Honey proudly display the three awards they achieved at the Africa Regional Apimondia Symposium in Durban in March this year. (Source: Wildflower Honey)

Clayton and Roxy Sanders-Perrin of Wildflower Honey with their children Ethan and Isabella. (Source: Wildflower Honey)

For more information, contact Clayton and Roxy at wildflowerhoney2020@gmail.com or follow Wildflower Honey at https:// instagram.com/wild.flower.honey. co?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== and https://www.facebook.com/ Wildflowerhoneycapetown?mibext id=ZbWKwL

Besides honey, Wildflower Honey also produces wax products for sale in selected shops and farm stalls. (Source: Wildflower Honey)

Wildflower Honey's logo was inspired by Roxy's tattoo. (Source: Wildflower Honey)

Food for Africa: Cassava

by Tisha Steyn

Cassava (Manihot esculenta) is a versatile, nutty-flavoured starchy root vegetable (tuber) that is used in the same way as a potato. It is an important source of nutrients, carbohydrates, and calories, which provides energy. It is like yams and taro.

Sweet and bitter varieties are available, but the sweet cassava is more common in the United States, where it is often referred to as yuca, manioc, or Brazilian arrowroot.

The root or tuber is the most consumed part of the cassava plant. It can

be eaten whole, grated or ground into flour for baking bread and crackers. It is also used to make tapioca starch for baking gluten-free goods.

As cassava may contain harmful compounds such as cyanide, it may be harmful when consumed raw. If it is prepared well, it is a beneficial addition to the diet.

Growing cassava

The plant is native to Brazil and Paraguay in South America, where it is known as yuca, but is also grown in

other tropical areas, including Africa, because of its ability to withstand difficult growing conditions, including drought.

Growing cassava successfully relies upon tropical climates and at least eight months of warm weather. It prefers well-drained soil and modest rainfall, but it can survive where soils are wet. The roots however do not tolerate freezing temperatures and it grows best in full sun. From start to harvest may take up to 18 months.

Cuttings

Cassava is always grown from stem cuttings of plants that are at least ten months old. Once the tubers are harvested, the stems are cut off from the tubers and the leaves are removed. The stems are stored in a cool, dry place for the next planting season. Cuttings should be 20 cm to 30 cm long and about 1,5 cm to 4,0 cm thick with two or three viable nodes.

The cuttings can be planted directly into prepared soil or in a pot in a sunny spot indoors until the outside temperature is at least 21 °Celsius. Keep it lightly misted to keep it moist. Transplant them outside once the cuttings have sprouted leaves and have at least 5 cm of growth.

The plants grow faster in warmer temperatures. There are several pests that eat the leaves, but the plants are mostly free of diseases and pests.

Keep the plants moderately moist and use a slow-release fertiliser in spring. If the plants are in pots, they can be moved indoors before freezing temperatures occur, and

The cassava plant is native to South America, but is also grown in other tropical areas, including Africa, because of its ability to withstand difficult growing conditions such as drought. (Source: Pixabay)

Cassava is sometimes dried and used as flour, which is gluten-free.

(Source: Pixabay)

Cassava can be boiled, baked, or fried as snacks. (Source: Pixabay)

Cassava roots are sold in local markets in towns in Africa, where it is a staple food, providing carbohydrates in the diet of many families. (Source: Pixabay)

moved back outside when it gets warmer.

At present, scientists are mapping the genetic structure of cassava. This information may be used to grow superior plants that will have more nutritional value and be more resistant to disease.

Nutritional value

Cassava root has many health benefits as it is particularly high in vitamin C, an important vitamin that acts as an antioxidant, supports the production of collagen, and enhances immunity.

It is also rich in copper, a trace mineral that is necessary for energy production and iron metabolism.

Cassava is a significant source of carbs. It also provides a little fibre, vitamins, and minerals. A 100-gram serving of cooked cassava root contains 191 calories, of which about 84% comes from carbs, while the rest come from protein (1,5%) and fat (3 grammes). One serving also provides some fibre (2 grammes).

Besides Vitamin C (20% of the daily requirements, one serving also provides copper (12%), thiamine (7%), folate (6%), vitamin B6 (6%), potassium (6%), magnesium (5%) and niacin (5%).

Potential health benefits

Resistant starch: Cassava may have several health benefits. It contains resistant starch, which can bypass digestion and has similar properties as

soluble fibre. This feeds the beneficial bacteria in the gut and may help promote digestive health, while reducing inflammation.

Resistant starch may also improve metabolic health and reduce the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes. This may be related to improved blood sugar management and an increased feeling of fullness which may reduce appetite. The cooling of cooked cassava root may increase the content of resistant starch.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is important for many health aspects, including immunity. It also helps protect against oxidative stress and supports the function of immune cells in your body. It also protects against skin damage and stimulates the production of collagen, a type of protein found throughout your body in your bones, skin, muscles, and joints.

Cooked cassava root used in cooking

and baking is beneficial to people with food allergies, as it is free of gluten, grains, and nuts.

Potential downsides

As with all foods, cassava should be consumed in moderation, as it is high in calories. Cassava must be cooked before eating it, as it can be poisonous if consumed raw.

It must be kept in mind that the use of cassava may also have downsides, such as high calory content of 191, compared to sweet potatoes, which contain only 90 calories, and carrots, which contain only 60 calories.

The high calorie content makes cassava an important staple crop in many countries. It must be kept in mind that consuming more calories than you burn can contribute to weight gain over time. It is therefore best to eat it in moderation as part of a balanced diet and not eating more than a quarter to half a cup per serving.

It must be noted that preparing

Cassava flour can be used in the baking of gluten-free cakes. It is growing in popularity because of this, but also does not contain allergens, is a resistant starch that bypasses digestion and has properties similar to soluble fibre. (Source: Pixabay)

The cassava root must be peeled and cooked to remove toxins that may be harmful to health if eaten raw. (Source: Pixabay)

the cassava by peeling, chopping, and cooking can also reduce the vitamins, minerals, fibre, and resistant starch content. Boiling instead of roasting and frying retains more nutrients. Processed forms like tapioca also have limited nutritional value.

Caution

Cassava must be cooked before eating it, as it can be poisonous if consumed raw.

Cassava contains chemicals called cyanogenic glycosides, which, when eaten raw, in large amounts or when prepared improperly, can release cyanide into the body.

Cyanide poisoning can impair thyroid and nerve function and may lead to paralysis, organ damage, and even death. Especially people with poor nutritional status and low protein intake are likely to experience these negative effects.

Soaking and cooking cassava decreases the content of the harmful chemicals, and if eaten as part of a well-balanced diet that is high in protein may reduce the risk.

Preparing cassava

The skin of the cassava root contains most of its cyanide-producing compounds, so it is best to peel it and discard the peels before cooking it.

Soaking cassava in water for 48 to 60 hours before cooking may reduce harmful chemicals. Cook it thoroughly by boiling, roasting or baking before eating it.

Eating protein (meat or eggs) along with cassava may be beneficial as it helps rid the body of toxic cyanide.

Including a variety of foods in the diet rather than relying on cassava

as the main source of nutrition may reduce harmful effects.

Eating cassava

Cassava is normally used in the same way as potatoes as an addition to many dishes. It can be used to make snacks and side dishes by slicing it and then baking or roasting it as you would potatoes.

It can also be mashed or added to stir-fries, omelettes, and soups.

When ground into flour, it can be used in grain-free bread, tortillas, pancakes, and crackers.

Tapioca, which is made from the starch extracted from the root by washing and pulping it, can be used as a thickener for soups, stews, pies, and puddings.

Products made from the root, such as flour and tapioca are safe to eat as these products contain little or no cyanide-inducing compounds.

Cassava must preferably be used with a protein, such as meat or fish for a well-balanced diet. (Source: Pixabay)

References

Ajmera, R (2023) What is Cassava. Healthline https://www.healthline. com/nutrition/cassava

Grant, B.L. (n.d.) Cassava plant care – Information on how to grow cassava. Gardening know-how https://www.gardeningknowhow. com/edible/vegetables/cassava/ growing-cassava-yuca.htm

Sike-Ezo. O. (n.d.) Cassava propagation and planting. Wikifarmer https://wikifarmer.com/cassavapropagation-and-planting/

Cassava is grown from cuttings from a mature plant. (Source: Pixabay)

by Natasha Pansegrouw

Livestock identification part 2:

Ear tattooing and notching

Improvedalternatives to replace conventional methods of livestock identification, such as branding or ear tags, have been available for quite some time now. Farmers and breeders today are taking advantage of the

trend of having more detailed information etched into the ears of their prized animals as a means of identification and keeping track of treatments or breeding factors.

Marking and branding livestock can

be done in a number of ways, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Several factors, such as the type of animal, the intended use, and local regulations, influence the decision as to which method to use. Livestock must be marked and branded correctly for identification, traceability, and disease control purposes, regardless of the method used.

Tattoos are a fast and permanent way to identify livestock. Typically, ink or a specialised tattoo gun are used to apply them to the ear canal. Tattoos are best suited for smaller herds because they are difficult to read from a distance.

Some tattoos need to be touched up because they blur or fade over time. Some livestock owners, however, find them to be the best option for permanent identification. Similar to ear tattooing, ear notching is commonly believed to be more legible and resistant to wear and tear compared to tags.

How to ear-tattoo livestock

Tattooing involves using a specialised

(Photo credit: Meyersvlei Bonsmara)

Having secured the sheep’s neck with a clamp, the tattoo artist has begun sterilising the ear in preparation for the tattoo. (Source: Caring for Sheep and Goats Ear Tattooing, https://www.youtube.com/@UNFAO)

tool to imprint a unique number or symbol onto the animal’s ear. Before starting, it is important to ensure that the animal is properly restrained, and that all equipment is clean and sterilised. It may also be helpful to have an assistant hold the animal steady during the procedure. Once the tattoo is complete, be sure to record the animal’s tattoo number in a permanent record for future reference.

Tattooing advantages

The ability to keep accurate breeding records, track animals over time, and track of their health and growth are all advantages of ear tattoo identification for livestock. As an added bonus, ear tattoos are a permanent form of identification that does not need to be replaced or maintained often. However, it is worth keeping in mind that some animals may feel pain or stress during the tattooing process, so it is important to take extra precautions.

Tattooing disadvantages

Human error in recording tattoo numbers is one drawback of tattooing livestock ears, and tattoos may fade or become difficult to read over time.

Tattoo pliers are pressed down firmly on the ear between the ear’s major veins to minimise bleeding. (Source: Caring for Sheep and Goats Ear Tattooing, https://www.youtube.com/@UNFAO)

Some animals and circumstances may benefit more from the use of alternative forms of identification, such as microchipping or ear tags. Weighing the benefits and drawbacks of each identification technique is essential before making a final choice.

The process of ear tattooing

Typical supplies for tattooing livestock include cardboard, a wiping towel, tattoo pliers, ink, and tattoo numbers or letters. A stencil or template can be used to ensure that the tattoo is consistently placed, and disinfectant can be used to ensure that the area is clean before and after the tattoo is applied, but these items are optional. The risk of infection or injury to the animal

can be reduced by using high-quality equipment and adhering to proper sanitation procedures.

Steps to tattoo livestock

1. Gather the necessary equipment, including tattoo pliers and ink.

2. Use proper precautions to restrain the animal

3. Clean the ear thoroughly with alcohol or another disinfectant.

4. Make a few tattoos on cardboard first to get the hang of tattooing and double-check the display of the characters.

5. Place a stencil over the ear or draw the design freehand.

6. Load the tattoo pliers with ink and position them over the stencil or drawing.

7. Apply steady pressure to the pliers to make small holes in the skin and deposit ink there.

8. Release pressure on the pliers and remove them from the ear.

9. Repeat the process for any additional tattoos needed.

10.Apply an antiseptic ointment to the tattooed area to promote healing.

11.Release the animal and monitor the tattooed area for any signs of infection or complications.

Livestock ear notching

Ear notching is a permanent method of identifying livestock in which a series of notches are cut with specialised pliers into the animal’s ear. Notches can be used to provide information about the animal’s breed, age, and other vital aspects.

What tools are required for ear notching on livestock?

Notching pliers, antiseptic, and a record-keeping system with permanent entries are all necessities for success

For a clean tattoo, ink is smeared into the holes created by the pliers. (Source: Caring for Sheep and Goats Ear Tattooing, https://www.youtube. com/@UNFAO)

Ear tattoo pliers and black ink can be used for tattooing livestock. (Source: valleyvet.com)

ful notching. The procedure should be carried out in a sterile environment free of dirt and germs. Wearing gloves can help prevent injuries and keep hands clean. In addition, the procedure should be carried out with the utmost care and caution to avoid injury to both the animal and the person during the procedure.

How to notch the ears of livestock

1. First, gather the necessary tools, including ear-notching pliers and disinfectant solution.

2. Restrain the animal in a safe and secure manner to prevent injury to both the animal and the person performing the procedure.

3. Clean and disinfect the area of the ear where the notches will be made.

4. Make a sequence of notches in the ear’s cartilage in a pattern that corresponds to the desired identification code using the ear notching pliers.

5. Apply an antiseptic solution to the notched area to prevent infection.

6. Record the identification code in a permanent record-keeping system for future reference.

It is worth noting that different countries and regions have different rules

Each notch on the ear represents a different number. (Source: www.bonsmara.com.na)

about tattooing and notching the ears of livestock. However, South Africa, Kenya, and Zimbabwe are a few of the African countries that permit livestock tattooing. Before tattooing and notching ears, it is wise to familiarise oneself with and abide by the rules and regulations in effect in one’s area.

Pliers for notching ears come in various shapes. (Source: www.vetimpex.com)

Please use the links below for guidelines on tattooing and notching livestock:

Botswana

https://www.gov.bw/animalhusbandry/user-application-botswana-animal-identification-andtraceability-system-baits

Namibia

https://www.lac.org.na/ laws/2017/6476.pdf

Zimbabwe

https://www.swm-programme. info/legal-hub/zimbabwe/animalproduction

References

Livestock Production Management. (n.d.). Identification of livestock. Available at: https://sites.google.com/ site/viveklpm/introductory-animal-husbandry/identification-of-livestock

Neary, M. and Yager, A. (n.d.). Methods of livestock identification, as-556-W - Purdue university, Farm Animal Management @Purdue. Available at: https://extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/AS/AS-556-W.pdf

(Source: myvetsupplies. com)

The ear tattooing pliers’ inverted letter symbols.

This bull’s number is 93. A total of 93 is obtained by adding the 50 at the right ear’s tip, the 10 just above the tip, the 30 below the tip, and the 3 just below the tip on the left ear. (Photo credit: Meyersvlei Bonsmara)

REGTEROOR LINKEROOR

REGTEROOR LINKEROOR

Snail production Part 4 Choose the right housing

by Tapuwa Mashangwa

Heliciculture is a good source of income for farmers as its products are highly beneficial as food and for the pharmaceutical industry. Both industries require the highest quality of snail product. It is important to understand that the profitability of the production system largely depends on the quality of housing at each stage of snail’s life cycle. Housing has an influence on breeding, feed conversion ratios, and quantities of snail slime produced.

One housing option for snails is free range pens. These pens are large mini-paddock pens: a fenced area of up to 10 by 20 m, planted with plants, shrubs, and trees that provide food and shelter from wind, sun, and rain. In the same structural form as a mini-paddock pen, the vertical fence must be extended inwards to prevent snails from escaping. If the fence is constructed of fine chicken wire mesh, the overhang is not obligatory because snails dislike crawling on wire mesh. The fence must be dug at least 20 cm into the ground. These pens can be completely enclosed and roofed.

Generally free-range pens can be used as a sole snail enclosure in an extensive snail farming system, or as growing and fattening pens in a semiintensive production system.

In the extensive snail farm, the entire life cycle of the snail takes place within the open pen: mating, egg laying,

(Source: africabusinessclassroom.com)

hatching, hatchling development, and growth of the snails to maturity. Snails feed on the plants provided in the pen.

In a semi-intensive snail farm the pens are used as growing and fattening pens for adult snails, which were raised through the egg hatchling to juvenile stages in hutch boxes or trench pens.

The advantage of a simple fenced free-range pen is that it is easy and cheap to construct, and management is limited to occasional replanting of food and shelter plants. Provided that the vegetation within the pen is kept well, additional feeding of the snails is not necessary.

A fully enclosed and roofed pen can be expensive to build, and if a concrete floor is used, an apron and a drain are

to be included in its construction.

Free-range pens have several disadvantages namely: they require more land than other types of snail farming; it is difficult to locate and protect eggs and small snails which may lead to poor disease management and higher mortality rates compared to other snail production systems; snail performance in free range pens is difficult to track, and therefore more efficient and effective record keeping is necessary; and predators and poachers can easily gain access to open type free range pens.

Quality feed needed

Optimum snail production is not only determined by the quality of housing but also by the food the snails are

(Source: thenewgreece.com)

given. The distinction between extensive, semi-intensive and intensive snail farming systems applies not only to housing, but also to feeding.

In an extensive system, snails feed only on vegetation planted in their pens specifically for that purpose. In a semiintensive snail farm, external feed is provided to hatchlings, juveniles, and possibly to breeding snails housed in hutch boxes or trench pens. In an intensively managed snail farm, all snails, at whatever growing stage, are always provided with external feed. Snails are kept in hutch boxes or trench pens.

In very intensive systems, the snails are fed a formulated snail feed mix containing all the proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins required for optimal growth. Snails are housed in boxes or trench pens.

Snails are vegetarian and will accept many types of food. All snails will avoid plants that have hairy leaves or produce toxic chemicals, like physic nut (Jathropa curcas). Young snails prefer tender leaves and shoots; they consume about twice as much feed as mature snails.

As they get older, mature snails increasingly feed on detrited fallen leaves, rotten fruit, and humus. Older snails should be fed the same items as immature snails. If a change in the diet has to be made, the new food items should be introduced gradually.

Snails need carbohydrates for energy, and protein for growth. In addition, they require calcium (Ca) for their

shells, as well as other minerals and vitamins. Snail meat is low in crude fibre and fat; for that reason, these components are of minor importance in snail feed.

Rygało-Galewska, A., Zglińska, K., Niemiec, T. (2022) Edible Snail Production in Europe. Available at: https://www.mdpi.com/20762615/12/20/2732

Helicicultural Entrepreneurship

Available at: https://www.turkeytrainings.com/heliciculture

Snail Farming Startup Guide

Available at: https://www.agri4africa.com/snail-farming-startupguide/

A Practical Approach to Backyard Snail Farming. (1998) Available at: https://www.ajol.info/index. php/njap/article/view/124545

(Source: www.inisescargot.ie)

References

(Picture) Snail Farming in Nigeria (Detail Post + Free practical training on our farm). Available at: https://www.africabusinessclassroom.com/wp-content/ uploads/2022/11/snail-shell-mollusk-4345504.jpg

Akharume, C. O., Alao, B. O., Eyinade, G. A. (2019) Costs and returns analysis of smallholder snail production in southwestern Nigeria. Available at: https://serialsjournals.com/abstract/21186_ chap-2_celestine_ohi_akharumechapter_2.pdf

Ngenwi, A. A., Mafeni, J. M., Etchu, K. A., Oben, F. T. (2010) Characteristics of snail farmers and constraints to increased production in West and Central Africa. Available at: https://idl-bnc-idrc. dspacedirect.org/bitstream/handle/10625/48747/IDL-48747.pdf

SEPTEMBER

Lazarett Kommersiële Komplex, Eenheid 1 + 7, Suidelike Industriële Area, 64 Lazarett Straat, Windhoek, Namibië

In the previous two parts of this series, we had a look at the impact humans have had on the environment during the past 100 years and how they have lost the spirit of a land ethic, which can be re-instilled to empower land managers to do the right thing to care for the land.

In this issue, Ken Coetzee of Conservation Management Services explains the difference between revegetation, rehabilitation, and restoration. He defines the meaning of each concept and provides valuable insights into the approach of earlier restoration and rehabilitation practitioners.

‘Ecological restoration’ is a relatively young discipline and restorationists today are active in ecosystems as divergent as coral reefs and tropical forests. However, Ken believes the restoration of the American Midwest prairies played a leading role in the development of the “art of restoration” about half a century ago. In the previous chapters, we referred to the writing of Aldo Leopold in his book A sand county almanac from which Ken takes his inspiration.

The terms are often incorrectly used interchangeably to describe the same process. Here are Ken’s definitions:

Revegetation involves the establishment of only one or a few plant species to cover the ground with a protective and pretty vegetation cover. There is no attempt to recreate a previous state, and the results are achieved quickly.

Rehabilitation involves the repair of ecosystem processes, productivity, and services to return some of the

functions of the ecosystem before it was disturbed. The historical or pre-existing ecosystem is used as a reference, and the desired results take much longer to achieve.

Restoration involves the repair of ecosystem processes to re-establish the original structure and function and the pre-existing biotic species composition and community structure. It requires a great deal more postrehabilitation and after-care, and it takes much longer to achieve the state before it was disturbed.

“Rehabilitation, therefore, is probably a better description of most of the work that is usually, but erroneously described as restoration,” says Ken.

Lessons learned

One can learn from the experiences of early restoration and rehabilitation practitioners. Here are the lessons they have learned:

Reversible or irreversible changes

Human activities have changed the landscape, and there is a difference between changes that are reversible and those that are irreversible. It is important to try to repair changes that can be changed, rather than attempt the near impossible.

Ken advocates a practical, hands-on approach, which can be achieved, at a relatively low cost, by small groups or individuals with a commitment to landscape restoration. “These actions must be directed towards landscape improvement projects in which human changes are reversible.”

Understanding human impact

Humans influence the environment, and at the same time, the ecosystem needs to be rehabilitated. How these interact must be kept in mind when planning to rehabilitate the land. If not, even the most carefully made plans and lots of time, effort and money will be wasted.

Nature’s resilience

Nature is amazingly resilient and very forgiving. When time and effort are invested, all except the most severely degraded land can be reversed, or at least much improved.

Humans and nature

Mankind and nature must be viewed together. Ecological restoration of the changes caused by man should always be viewed as an artificial recreation of the natural ecosystem, and not as an artificial ecosystem. The ecological integrity of the work will contribute to the naturalness of the landscape, and rehabilitation should therefore be regarded as an essential nature conservation action.

Tiring, but rewarding

Although rehabilitation and restoration work is always tiring and seemingly without end, the results are always satisfying. That is why people volunteer and get involved all over the world, instead of just donating money to nature conservation projects.

The needs of humans, such as cultivating large volumes of wheat in monoculture fields, such as these

by Tisha Steyn

wheat croplands, cannot be viewed apart from nature. Man’s use of the landscape must be regarded as a part of the biosphere and will have to be managed as such.

Innovative experimentation

The approach to restoration and rehabilitation work, whether based on innovative experimentation or a scientific approach, should always use the best available information.

Natural landscapes must never be allowed to deteriorate further while practitioners wait for scientifically generated guidelines. Innovative experimentation, based on previous experience, is the only practical course of action to take to prevent the loss of biodiversity. Practical knowledge derived from unrelenting trial and error has a huge role to play in the success of landscape restoration activities.

Communication

If you know about a restoration and rehabilitation practitioner who did a good job, you must tell others about it. This knowledge must be shared with anybody who might need it if we want landscape restoration to become a new way of looking at natural resources.

Persons with this valuable experience should share it with others because practical experience is lost if it

is not shared. We simply cannot afford to lose this kind of knowledge while forests decline, rangelands become deserts, and alien plants creep closer to the remaining natural wildlands.

Community effort

Landscape rehabilitation should be a community eff ort. When rural com munities are trained and participate, rehabilitation will be s

If possible, the community members should be encouraged and hopefully employed to do the physical rehabilitation work. The traditional knowledge within rural communities should not be ignored, for by making use of familiar methods, products, and social systems a great deal can be achieved.

Dedication

Landscape rehabilitation and restoration need a long-term commitment and dedication to the task. This, and hard work, is the basis of an ethical relationship with the land.

“The rehabilitation of degraded land is therefore not for the faint-hearted, but rather for those who have the courage to take on and combat man’s greatest folly – the destruction of his own home!”

February 2023 AUCTION CALENDER

2023

by Marko Phiri

Small grains provide hope for female traders in Zimbabwe

W hile Zimbabwe's smallholder farmers have been slow in embracing large-scale production of small grains such as millet and sorghum, women who have taken up growing such crops have found a ready market in Bulawayo where traditional foods are in demand.

Thokozile Mabuza is a fifty something year old widow in the low rainfall region of Gwanda, about 100 km north of Bulawayo, an agricultural zone more suited to cattle ranching than crop production.

On her plot she grows a variety of food crops, including maize which she says routinely fails as it is rainfed.

"If there is no rain, there is no harvest," has become the story of the life of subsistence farmers here.

"It is only this past season that we managed to harvest a little. Otherwise, year in and year out, it is the same old story of poor maize harvests," Mabuza said.

However, Mabuza has learned over the years that from adversity springs hope.

"In recent years I have turned my attention to drought resistant small grains such as millet and sorghum. I have also come to realise that people in the city (Bulawayo) enjoy these traditional foods," she said.

It is in Bulawayo, the country's second largest city, where there is a thriving market for small grains that provided Thokozile with a lifeline.

While her operation is small-scale, designed to produce enough for domestic consumption, Thokozile says she has taken up land traditionally reserved for maize to plant more small grains.

"I extended the field because I now sell the excess produce to people from out of town," Thokozile added. Her story is a contrast of sorts against the background of Zimbabwe small-

holder farmers who produce the bulk of the country's staple maize who authorities say continue to shun growing small grains.

And this against the advice of the Ministry of Agriculture and other experts who seek to climate-proof agriculture affected by a cycle of droughts and flash floods that have destroyed crops and incomes.

The World Food Programme (WFP) says small grains provide an opportunity for Zimbabwe to tackle poverty and hunger, noting that the country must promote the production of sorghum and millet as "both are traditionally important crops that can be grown with relatively less water resources-while being more nutritious than maize."

Subsistence farmers such as Thokozile have discovered the benefits of small grains, with the WFP training local farmers in "diverse and climate smart food production," according to country spokesperson Maria Gallar.

Thokozile is able to sell the small grains, and can use the proceeds for other domestic needs.

"We grew up eating millet and sorghum; it is time we returned to old ways for us to survive," she said.

Small grains and dried vegetables marketed in Bulawayo.

Honey I'm home:

Turning wild bees into cash in Zimbabwe

by Marko Phiri

Unemployed women in Zimbabwe's second city are turning to nature to earn a living as they collect wild honey to sell in the country's major cities.

Honey has proved to be popular here in Bulawayo, with virtually every corner of the central business district having women selling the sweet organic bee product.

Sarudzai Dambadza roams the city with a twenty-litre bucket full of honey every day, and by end of business, the bucket is empty, she says.

"There is a huge demand for organic honey in the city," she says, and on a good day, the bucket is empty before midday.

City residents use honey for a variety of purposes, some health related, and Sarudzai says she sometimes finds herself overwhelmed by the demand.

But where does she get the honey

from?

"I get the honey from Chiredzi," she says in between serving a clutch of customers extending their hands for a sample taste before they make a purchase.

Chiredzi lies in the country's south-east some 430 km from Bulawayo, and offers economic opportunities for women such as Sarudzai and in a country where the majority of women are without formal jobs.

However, amid such gloomy economic circumstances, it is nature's sweetness that has residents licking their fingers and providing unexpected livelihoods, for from the honey she sells, Sarudzai is able to pay the bills and send her children to school.

With thousands of vendors in the city selling all kinds of wares, Sarudzai has found her niche selling honey.

According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) which has helped with setting up bee farming projects around the country, there are about twenty thousand beekeepers in Zimbabwe.

These professional beekeepers, however, sell to processors who then sell to supermarkets, while Sarudzai's customers want the organic honey together with its raw combs.

As Sarudzai scoops the honey from the bucket, a customer insists on a spoonful of the honeycomb.

"That is the real honey," the evidently satisfied customer declares, but Sarudzai is reluctant to reveal if she poaches the honey herself from the Chiredzi forests.

Despite the hard work Sarudzai puts into her enterprise, there is little to show she might be able to grow her business,

and local women's rights advocates are agitating for long term sustainability of female informal traders.

"The nature of the informal sector means these women have no access to the formal banking sector where they can access loans to expand their businesses," said Sithabile Dewa, Executive Director of Women's Academy for Leadership and Excellence.

"Most banks and lending institutions require collateral, which most women do not have, to release loans. Profits from the informal sector are so meagre and only allow women to feed from hand to mouth," Sithabile said, highlighting the predicament of Sarudzai and millions of other women caught in Zimbabwe's hamster wheel of economic hardship.

In the meantime, Sarudzai will continue bringing sweetness to the palates of her customers, and hope that her source of honey does not run dry.

Sarudzai Dambadza scoops honey for a customer.

Zimbabwe women fish for economic answers

by Marko Phiri

the power outages, with farmers appealing to the government to be exempted from load shedding.

However, for Tabeth and other fishmongers such challenges have been overcome by turning to selling dried fish, despite the continued demand for fresh fish.

"You learn to devise a survival strategy. You cannot abandon this business because of circumstances over which you have no control. What I do now is buy and sell dried fish which include bream and kapenta," Tabeth said.

For years women in Bulawayo have travelled long distances to buy fish in bulk, but the current challenges, including low fish stocks in the dams and power outages that interrupt refrigeration, are exposing the risks that come with the fish business.

Tabeth Zulu knows the risk too well. "When we started, fish was cheaper than beef, but now because the fish is becoming scarce, fish is considered expensive," she said, as her industry responds to the laws of supply and demand.

Government has in recent months promoted fish farming, providing resources to economically vulnerable communities to develop aquaculture infrastructure as part of income generating projects for especially women.

For now, Tabeth joins scores of women who source their produce from fishermen and she hopes the industry will continue providing sustenance despite the uncertainty of fish hauls in the country's dams.

Fisheries in Zimbabwe are providing women with livelihoods against odds brought by economic hardships, climate change, and competition from male fishmongers.

Selling fish has long been a source of income for women, but with current unemployment levels, more and more women are trying their hand at anything that will provide income.

Demand for aquaculture produce has continued despite dwindling fish stocks in the country's supply dams, according to the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fishe-ries, Water, Climate, and Rural Development.

The price of fish bought directly from dams is considered lower than that sold in supermarkets and butcheries, thereby providing a steady stream of income for informal traders.

Fishmongers such as Tabeth Zulu who make a living visiting dams surrounding the city of Bulawayo to purchase their stock say they have watched as a growing number of people, especially women, turn to buying and selling fish.

"This has become a women's business. Fish sells, but when you have a problem with electricity that's when things become difficult," Tabeth said.

While Zimbabwe's electricity crisis has affected big business, informal traders such as Tabeth are also feeling the pinch because of the highly perishable nature of the commodities they sell.

Fish for sale in Bulawayo

Women selling fish in the Bulawayo central business district.

The agriculture sector has not been spared

Zimbabwe city women upscale urban farming

by Marko Phiri

At a time when food insecurity is also affecting urban residents in Zimbabwe, some women are turning pieces of land into thriving agriculture plots, growing anything from maize to vegetables, and even producing fish.

Aid agencies say a growing number of people in Zimbabwe's urban areas are food insecure, with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) actively supporting local governments and residents to expand urban food resilience efforts by promoting food gardens.

In the country's second largest city, Bulawayo, where municipality officials previously slashed crops grown on undesignated land, women have taken up the mantle to create thriving food ecosystems that are feeding their localities.

Marieti Mpala runs one such urban agriculture project.

From an abandoned piece of land in Bulawayo not far from her home, Marieti has turned, what was considered a wasteland, into a green zone where she grows vegetables that include cabbages, onions, chomolia, tomatoes, and cucumbers.

She has also set up a pond where she breeds bream.

"I purchased the land more than a decade ago but only seriously started the agriculture project later," Marieti said.

She has sunk a solar-powered borehole, ensuring a constant supply of water in a city long plagued by water shortages due to the failing electricity supply.

"I sell the produce at a low price so that the buyers can also sell and earn a living," she said. She also acts as a local

philanthropist doling out vegetables and other goodies to the elderly for free.

Not far from her small plot is also a group of women with backs bent working on a community garden.

Here, the women primarily grow chomolia, which is a staple green for many households in a country where low incomes have meant adjusting daily diets.

"We grow for our own kitchens while we also sell to whoever wants the vegetables," said Agnes Mwale, an elderly resident who runs a portion of more than hundred vegetable beds found at the Sizinda township community garden.

Women in Zimbabwe constitute the bulk of domestic food producers-up to seventy percent by some estimatesworking the land against insurmountable odds such as lack of access to agri-loans and title deeds to their farm land. For Marieti, Agnes and others, the provision

of infrastructure such as solar-powered boreholes will go a long way to ensure uninterrupted food production.

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) says if female farmers in Zimbabwe had the same access to productive resources as men, they would increase yields by up to thirty percent.

"We applaud the work being done by Marieti and others to ensure food security," said Tinevimbo Maphosa, the local councillor.

"Such efforts should be replicated by others as we don't want the usual complaints that times are hard," Tinevimbo said.

The municipality has made commitments to make more land available to address food security, but for now, female urban farmers make do with what they have to ensure local solutions to food security.

Maintaining the community garden is back-breaking work, but worth the results.

Marieti Mpala at her horticulture project.

Tick-borne diseases of Zimbabwe: Gallsickness (anaplasmosis)

Gallsickness, or anaplasmosis, is a tick-borne disease that is common throughout Zimbabwe, and which affects cattle, sheep, and goats. Local cattle breeds are more resistant to the disease than foreign breeds.

Cattle deaths due to the disease occur throughout the year, but in greatest numbers during the summer months when tick infestations are heaviest.

Dipping with chemicals to deter tick infestation is a double-edged sword: On the one hand it controls tick infestation and disease, while on the other hand it results in a lack of immunity to these diseases. Where natural resistance does not occur, it is important to immunise cattle against tick-borne diseases to prevent it.

What is gallsickness?

Gallsickness in cattle is mainly caused by various anaplasma rickettsia bacteria, including the organism anaplasma marginale, and to a lesser degree, ana plasma centrale, which is less severe than anaplasma marginale.

It is primarily transmitted by ticks where the distribution of mainly three species occurs, namely the African blue tick (Rhipicephalus decoloratus), Asian blue tick (Rhipicephalus microplus), and the red-legged tick (Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi).

It is also caused by some biting flies and mosquitos.

It is important to note that unhygienic conditions, such as using dirty needles and bloody farm equipment like ear notchers that are used to mark animals, can also transmit the disease between animals.

How does anaplasma cause disease?

An infected tick transmits the organism through its saliva when it attaches to the animal. The anaplasma organism enters the animal’s bloodstream and infects the red blood cells, where it starts to multiply. The number of infected red blood cells doubles every

between three to four weeks after the tick bite transmission took place. The infected red blood cells become foreign to the animal’s body and are removed by the liver, spleen, and lymph nodes.

The infected red blood cells are broken down and the animal starts to develop anaemia. The animals can lose up to 70% of their red blood cells, but the anaemia normally only becomes noticeable once the animal has lost 40% to 50% of the red blood cells.

The animal’s mucous membranes, namely the gums, eyes, and inner layer of the vulva or preputium (the extended part of the foreskin of the penis that covers the glans penis) turn pale before it turns into the more common and noticeable yellow colour. The yellowing is caused by the broken-down red blood cell pigment or haemoglobin in the liver.

Symptoms

Affected animals show fever, which may disappear during the later stages of the disease, general weakness, loss of appetite and weight loss, rumen stasis (indigestion), and constipation. In severe cases, there is yellowing of gums and eyes, called icterus, which is due to anaemia or loss of red blood cells. In dairy cows, milk production drops severely, and pregnant cows may abort.

Older animals can suffer from the disease for longer and up to 2 weeks. Some animals may show aggressive

by Tisha Steyn

The severity of disease is related to the age of the animal. Animals younger than a year, rarely show any symptoms. Animals between one and two years of age show moderate symptoms, while in older cattle the disease is severe and usually fatal in up to 50% of the cases.

Animals that survive have a convalescence period of several months to regain their former condition.

Treatment

Gallsickness can be confused with redwater (babesiosis) in the early stages. A veterinarian can help to diagnose the disease correctly. Treatment for gallsickness using oxytetracyclines is usually very successful if diagnosed early. Other supportive treatment like multivitamins can improve the recovery of the sick animals.

Since this is a tick-borne disease, the main control method is consistent dipping.

Consistent communal plunge dipping, knapsack spraying, and spray races can be used to apply chemicals that deter ticks.

Plunge dip tanks are the preferred method for dipping large numbers of especially beef cattle. If constructed and used correctly, these ensure that the animals are completely submerged in the dipping chemical so that it reaches the inside of the ears and under the tail where ticks are found.

Spray races usually consist of a

concrete base and metal walls, usually with a tunnel shape and with strategically placed nozzles at different angles to ensure the animal is completely covered with the dip-wash sprays coming through the nozzles. These spray races are used in many tropical and subtropical countries to periodically treat cattle against ticks, biting flies, mosquitos, and other external parasites.

Dipping chemicals should be changed regularly to prevent buildup of tick resistance.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis can be made based on the clinical signs, but as the early stages of gallsickness can be confused with redwater, a definitive diagnosis must be made with a microscope on a blood smear.

Carrier animals can be diagnosed with serology tests on the body fluids

before they are introduced into the herd. Animals diagnosed with gallsickness can be treated with two recognised active ingredients, Imidocarb (Imizol®) or tetracycline (Reverin 135). Contact a veterinarian to advise which treatments are available in Zimbabwe. These drugs do not remove the infection and recovered animals will remain lifelong carriers. They may get the disease again and can cause new outbreaks in the herd.

Natural immunity to gallsickness

Bos indicus cattle are more resistant to anaplasma than Bos taurus breeds, but the resistance may vary between breeds.

Calves younger than six months have an innate immunity against anaplasma, despite the cow’s immune status. Cattle raised in endemic areas can develop immunity to the disease before the age when clinical signs become severe.

Control and prevention

The control of gallsickness depends on two strategies, namely tick control by dipping/spraying, and vaccination. Unlike redwater, it is not possible to block anaplasma.

As most parts of Southern Africa

are endemic to anaplasma, a stable disease situation must be sustained to prevent large losses.

By allowing calves to be exposed to tick-borne diseases while they are still young and naturally immune, they will increase the antibody levels against these diseases. If this cannot be done, calves younger than six months of age should be vaccinated with the anaplasma vaccine to ensure immunity.

Contact Department of Livestock and Veterinary Services at +263-4-706603 or e-mail newazvo@dlvs.gov.zw or visit the website at http://www.dlvs.gov. zw/?page_id=25

Source references

Cattle Spray Race for Sale in South Africa - 2023/2024 (safacts.co.za)

Du Plessis, C. (n.d.) Understanding Anaplasmosis (gallsickness) https://www.msd-animal-health. co.za/wp-content/uploads/ sites/30/2020/05/VV-anaplasmosis.pdf

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