ProAgri Zambia 77

ProAg Pro Agri ri technology for the farmer

Z a m b i a No 77

Novatek: Fatten your cattle in the feedlot

Free

FES: Aligned with the needs of Zambian farmers John Deere: The biggest combine on the continent

Renewable energy meets the durability of www.agri4all.com

www.proagri.co.za

Follow Us @ BayerZambia: Follow Us @ BayerZambia:

because we are more than just because are more than just abecause seed. we we are more than just a seed. a seed.

It’s harvest season, and Bayer Zambia has what you need to It’s harvest and Bayer Zambia has what you need to protect thatseason, maize grain.

It’s harvest season, and Bayer Zambia has what you need to protect that maize grain. protect that maize grain.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONS CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATIONS US 10103, Mumbwa Road | P.O Box 37131, Lusaka - Zambia ADDRESS: Bayer Zambia CONTACT Ltd Plot No. FOR MORE INFORMATIONS CONTACT US

PHONE: +260 963Zambia 604 694 WEBSITE: www.bayer.com/en/za/sea-zambia ADDRESS: Bayer Ltd| Plot No. 10103, Mumbwa Road | P.O Box 37131, Lusaka - Zambia

Zambia soya bean production

on t he

rise

T

he recent input price increases in international markets have a significant impact on the sustainability of agricultural production in the local markets.

Farmers and mines do not have to be in conflict with each other. If we think about it, they actually need each other.

Mines need a lot of fresh food for their permanent and contract workers, and can provide a very lucrative market for farmers’ produce.

Central Province Permanent Secretary, Milner Mwanakampwe, recently stated in a news article that Zambia must strategically position itself to benefit from the mineral resources.

According to Milner the mining sector in the country has been re-affirmed as one of the key priority sectors expected to drive the country’s economic growth and transformation agenda. He observed that in order for the country to benefit from the mining opportunities there is a need to re-strategize the manner in which the sector is governed.

On the bright side, however, soya bean production is projected this year to increase further as the crop use as

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Ag Solar by Valley® John Deere excels at NAMPO 2022 Irrigation in Namibia: Reinke pivot makes the impossible possible FES takes the lead in Zambian land preparation solutions Fatten your beef cattle with Novatek Feedlot 85 Syngenta at your service: Ensure seed and food security with productive technologies Successful rabbit farming with Tiger Animal Feeds – Part 1: What a farmer needs to know about rabbits Cattle breeds Part 1 Rabbit farming Part 5: Breeding and herd management Is Infectious Bronchitis Variant 2 (IS/1494/06) a problem at your layer farm?

Diversify your family business to insulate it from risks Ancient African food Part 3: The answer to Africa’s malnutrition and obesity?

ProAgri Zambia 77

ProAgri Z a m b i a

Nangwenya House No. 7352 Nangwenya Road Rhodespark +26 (0)97-769-9786 www.proagri.co.za

Farm smartly!

Bianca Henning bianca@proagri.co.za

29

Valley Irrigation uses the sun’s energy to power your agribusiness, providing your operation with a new level of energy independence.

Read more on page 3.

technology for the farmer

a food crop. Zambia is projected to record a notable 6% growth in soya bean production between the 2018/2019 to 2019/2020 farming season. The crop will be used for the manufacturing of feed and other animal protein, as well as human consumption.

In this month’s edition of ProAgri Zambia, our cover story takes a look at the new possibilities of Valley’s ag solar pivot systems, John Deere launches the biggest combine harvester on the continent, and Trevor Dickinson, CEO of Family Legacies, advises farmers on how to diversify their family business.

Make sure you bookmark our new website, ProagriMedia (www. proagrimedia.com) for the latest agricultural news in Africa.

Stay warm this month and enjoy a jam-packed edition full of very exciting and informative content.

26

Cover

Copyright © 2022. All rights r­ eserved. No m ­ aterial, text or p ­ hoto­graphs may be r­ eproduced, copied or in any other way t­ ransmitted without the written consent of the publisher. O ­ pinions ­expressed are not n ­ ecessarily those of the publisher or of the e ­ ditor. We recognise all trademarks and logos as the sole property of their r­ espective o ­ wners.

ProAgri shall not be liable for any errors or for any actions in reliance thereon.

ProAgri Zambia Editor Bianca Henning Reporters Benine Ackermann Maryna Steyn Natasha Kruger

> +27 82-326-2572 bianca@proagri.co.za > +27 73-105-6938 benine@proagri.co.za > +27 82-261-9177 maryna@proagri.co.za > +27 81-736-4236 natasha@proagri.co.za

Specialist Writer Annemarie Bremner > +27 82-320-3642 annemarie@proagri.co.za Senior Production Manager Zainab Pandor > +26 (0)97-769-9786 zainab@proagri.co.za Client Relations Manager Carin Swartz > +27 84-233-0123 carin@proagri.co.za Marketing Manager Diane Grobler > +27 82-555-6866 diane@proagri.co.za Marketing Xander Pieterse > +27 79-524-0934 xander@proagri.co.za Johan Swartz > +27 71-599-9417 johan@proagri.co.za Tiny Smith > +27 82-698-3353 tiny@proagri.co.za Lelani Botha > +27 74-424-0055 lelani@proagri.co.za Brandon Gotz > +27 76-820-8478 brandon@proagri.co.za Lynette van Tonder > +27 74-694-4422 lynette@proagri.co.za Creative Director Christiaan Joubert > +27 72-419-3990 christiaan@proagri.co.za Design Michelle Kruger & Lizelle Erasmus Enquiries Engela Botha > +27 12-803-0782 engela@proagri.co.za Distribution and subscription Nita Volmer-van Zyl > +27 79-515-8708 nita@proagri.co.za Accounts Ronel Schluter > +27 12-803-0782 accounts@proagri.co.za Business Manager George Grobler

1

PLOUGHS PLOUGHS PLOUGHS PLOUGHS PLOUGHS PLOUGHS PLOUGHS PLOUGHS

BEST CONDITIONS BEST CONDITIONS BEST CONDITIONS BEST CONDITIONS BEST CONDITIONS BEST CONDITIONS BEST CONDITIONS BEST CONDITIONS BEST CONDITIONS BEST CONDITIONS BEST CONDITIONS BEST CONDITIONS BEST CONDITIONS CONDITIONS BEST

PLOUGHS b.swart@lemken.com PLOUGHS PLOUGHS PLOUGHS 9651, b.swart@lemken.com PLOUGHS munnik@lemken.com PLOUGHS 9651, b.swart@lemken.com 577, k.munnik@lemken.com e: 577, k.munnik@lemken.com ut more: ut more: Characteristic for the entire plough program from LEMKEN is the comprehensive

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OUR DRIVING FORCE: YOUR SUCCESS! Contact your nearest LEMKEN dealer to find out more: Contact your nearest LEMKEN dealer to2577, find out more: eed placement – in conventional asDirector, well as in conservation tillage.

Karel Munnik, Managing 082 412 k.munnik@lemken.com OUR DRIVING FORCE: YOUR SUCCESS! Contact your nearestDirector, LEMKEN dealer to2577, find out more: Karel Munnik, Managing 082 412 k.munnik@lemken.com

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Contact your nearest LEMKEN dealer to find out more: Karel Munnik, Managing Director, 082 412 2577, k.munnik@lemken.com Blackie Swart, Area Sales Manager, 082to 404 9651, b.swart@lemken.com ontact your nearest LEMKEN dealer out more: ills: your nearest LEMKEN dealer tofind find out more: Karel Munnik, Managing Director, 082 412 2577, k.munnik@lemken.com BlackieContact Swart, Area Sales Manager, 082 404 9651, b.swart@lemken.com Karel Munnik, Managing Director, 082 412 2577, k.munnik@lemken.com Blackie Swart, Area Sales Manager, 082 9651, b.swart@lemken.com Contact your nearest LEMKEN dealer to404 find out more: Seed Karel Munnik, Managing Director, 082 412 2577, arelDrills: Munnik, Managing Director, 082 412 k.munnik@lemken.com Blackie Swart, Area Sales Manager, 082 4042577, 9651,k.munnik@lemken.com b.swart@lemken.com Blackie Swart, Area Sales Manager, 082 404 9651, b.swart@lemken.com Contact your nearest LEMKEN dealer082 to find out more: Seed Drills: d, trailed or semi-mounted.

Karel Munnik, Managing Director, 412 2577, k.munnik@lemken.com Blackie Swart, Sales Manager, 082404 404 9651, b.swart@lemken.com lackie Swart, Area Area Sales Manager, 082 9651, b.swart@lemken.com ontact your nearest LEMKEN dealer to find out more:

from 3 totrailed 12 meters. ehsmounted, or semi-mounted.

Karel Munnik, Managing Director, 082 412 2577, k.munnik@lemken.com Blackie Swart, Area Sales Manager, 082 Contact your nearest LEMKEN dealer to9651, find out more: various farming ontact your nearest LEMKEN dealer to404 find outb.swart@lemken.com more: ing widths from 3operations. to 12 meters. earel mounted, trailed or semi-mounted.

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Contact your nearest LEMKEN dealer082 to find out more: ing widths fromto3farming to 12 meters. lemken.com Karel Munnik, Managing Director, 412 2577, k.munnik@lemken.com arel Munnik, Managing Director, 082 412 2577, lemken.com fective in various farming operations. cities available from 860 to 5800 litres.

Contact your nearest dealer to find outk.munnik@lemken.com more: lackie Swart, Area SalesLEMKEN Manager, 082082 404 9651, b.swart@lemken.com lemken.com Karel Munnik, Managing Director, 412 2577, k.munnik@lemken.com lemken.com cities available from 860 to 5800 Area litres.

Blackie Swart, Sales Manager, 082 404 9651, b.swart@lemken.com lackie Swart, Area Sales Manager, 082 404 9651, b.swart@lemken.com lemken.com CE: YOUR SUCCESS! Karel Munnik, Managing Director, 082 412 2577, k.munnik@lemken.com lemken.com Blackie Swart, Area Sales Manager, 082 404 9651, b.swart@lemken.com NG FORCE: YOUR SUCCESS! emken.com Blackie Swart, Area Sales Manager, 082 404 9651, b.swart@lemken.com NG FORCE: YOUR SUCCESS! lemken.com lemken.com

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mken.com

Director, 082 412 2577, k.munnik@lemken.com aaging Saleslemken.com Manager, 082 404 9651, b.swart@lemken.com

a Saleslemken.com Manager, 082 404 9651, b.swart@lemken.com

2

ProAgri Zambia 77

Ag Solar by Article supplied

D

riven by one of the most trusted names in agriculture, Valley Irrigation uses the sun’s energy to power your agribusiness, providing your operation with a new level of energy independence. As a global leader completing hundreds of solar projects, you can count on our expertise to deliver clean, efficient power no matter the size of your operation. Providing personal attention to the service, generating quality design, and producing a greater return on your investment is the difference and how we shine best.

Ag Solar by Valley offers new possibilities for your business by making energy available in places where the traditional electric network may prove challenging, or to mitigate areas of high energy consumption within your business. Our solar service solutions are also ideal if you simply want to be more sustainable and cost-efficient with your energy.

We evaluate your situation to deliver a complete, customised solar solution that meets your operation’s specific needs. From engineering and installation design to the financing and ongoing monitoring of your solar installation, Valley takes care of everything: • Distributed generation of photovoltaic, or PV energy (converting light into electricity).

• Engineered design and approval of

New possibilities Where a traditional electric network does not exist, the pivot can be powered by the sun.

detailed technical projects.

• Consulting on new PV installation focusing on agri-business.

• Every solar installation offers remote monitoring capabilities.

Valley offers the most durable irrigation structures in the field, as well as the most advanced solar service solutions, providing sustainable power by efficiently converting the sun’s rays to clean energy.

RENEWABLE ENERGY MEETS THE DURABILITY OF VALLEY Renewable energy meetsbenefits the Solar energy offers numerous for agricultural irrigation.

• •

durability of Valley Solar energy offers numerous benefits for agricultural irrigation: Efficiency – Crops require more water when the sun is shining, which Efficiency naturally when solar panels are most effective.

Crops require more water when the sun is shining, which is naturally when Energy Savings – Because the panels convert the sun’s rays to solar panels are most effective.

is

electricity, your operation will save on energy costs.

•

Energy savings Reduced Environmental Impact – Because the panels convert the sun’s and to pumping. rays electricity, your operation will save on energy costs.

Rely less on fossil fuels for power

• Tax Credits – Depending on your state or region, you may receive tax credits forenvironmental using solar energy.

Reduced impact Rely less on fossil fuels for power

• and New Possibilities – Where a traditional electric network does not exist, pumping. the pivot can be powered by the sun.

Tax credits Depending on your state or region, you may receive tax credits for using solar energy.

Energy compensation system

1

The solar panels capture radiation from the sun and convert it into electricity.

3

2

The electricity is converted to alternating current (AC) from direct current (DC).

ProAgri Zambia 77

4

The alternating current allows use by the farm buildings and machines.

The excess solar energy not used at peak times is turned into credits that can be used at night or at times of the year when less solar energy is generated.

3

WITH INCREASED FUEL PRICES

THE 6B TRACTORS’ LOW FUEL CONSUMPTION IS THE ANSWER

POWERFUL ENGINE

TRANSMISSION

HI-LOW POWER

FUEL TANK CAPACITY

The John Deere 4.5 L PowerTech™ Turbo Charged engine comes with advanced technology in engine piston and combustion chamber design, and a high pressure fuel pump with common rail ECU controlled fuel injection system.

It ensures more work done at lower fuel consumption.

The 6B offers three transmission options:

Effortlessly switch between high and low range with the touch of a button.

This provides an option to switch between speeds, ensuring lower fuel consumption as RPM range changes between modes.

150 and 220 Litre fuel tank capacity.

A larger fuel tank with lower fuel consumption, allows for more time in the field.

It offers a high torque reserve of up to 29%, allowing you to work through tough spots with ease without shifting gears, minimizing fuel consumption.

• 12/4 TSS DC • 24/8 TSS WC • 24/12 TSS WC Power Reverser

Providing you with a larger gear selection for specific application types. Not only a fuel saver, but it also allows for better productivity.

www.deere.africa | africa@johndeere.com | Customer Care: 0800 983 821 4

SCAN CODE TO VIEW THE FUEL EFFICIENCY OF THE 6B JohnDeereAME

John Deere

John Deere Africa & Middle East

ProAgri Zambia 77

John Deere excels at NAMPO 2022

by Bianca Henning

J

ohn Deere's exhibition at NAMPO 2022 was once again something to see, from a tractor hanging upside down to the introduction of the gigantic X9 combine harvester. John Deere construction equipment, which is now supplied and supported nationwide by John Deere agents and dealers, also appeared at NAMPO for the very first time this year.

John Deere's goal is to look after the farmer and his business.

Jaco Beyers, Managing Director of John Deere in Africa and the Middle East, says: “With all the challenges and rising input costs today, it is important for us to listen and care for the needs of the farmer. What is it that the farmer needs, and what can we offer to farmers? We are constantly looking for new innovative methods and ways to make farming more convenient.”

“When we started planning for NAMPO in October 2021, our aim was to turn NAMPO on its head; then the idea was born to turn a tractor literally on its head. We want to assure farmers that even if your tractor is on its head, our qualified John Deere technicians can still look after it,” says Lucas Groenewald, Sales Manager for John Deere South Africa.

“At John Deere, we run, so that you, our farmers, can leap forward.”

Jaco Beyers, Managing Director of John Deere Africa and the Middle East, aims to give farmers exactly what they need.

Farmers can now buy their John Deere parts online From a mechanisation point of view, John Deere is committed to constantly identify and apply strategies to ensure that they achieve their desired goal of giving John Deere clients and farmers an advantage.

“With the challenges faced over the past two years, many alternative plans have been put in place to continue to support and assist our farmers. One of them includes our online parts buying platform, which allows farmers to order parts online, 24 hours a day, whether it may be original John Deere parts or alternative John Deere approved parts for older models. One of the big reasons for this is because we all know that is where everything is moving and its convenience for the farmers. Go online, click and order, and we deliver the parts to the farmer’s doorstep,” says Janalize van Buuren, Director of Customer and After-sales Service for Africa, the Middle East, India, and the Pacific area.

Janalize van Buuren, Director of John Deere After-sales and Customer Service.

The gigantic John Deere X9 combine from the front.

Jan Kühn, John Deere Product Specialist from Zweibrücken, Germany, with the enormous X9 harvester.

The biggest John Deere combine harvester on the continent John Deere harvesters have made deep footprints in South African agriculture in recent decades. During the 54th NAMPO harvest day this year, John Deere introduced the gigantic and impressive X9 1100 combine harvester.

“Since 2016, a team of more than 100 engineers and specialists has been working on the design of this combine harvester. This giant harvester can harvest up to 200 tonnes of maize per hour and 100 tonnes of soft grains per hour. The harvester has a 13,6 litre engine and the grain tank's volume is 16 200 litres. The diesel tank of the combine is 1 250 litres in size,” says Jan Kühn, Product Specialist at John Deere.

ProAgri Zambia 77

The upside-down tractor at the John Deere exhibition during NAMPO attracted everyone’s attention.

Why delay your success? Contact or visit your nearest dealer today to discuss the various options offered

by John Deere. Farm more productively, efficiently, and comfortably with John Deere.

5

RAIN

www.reinke.com

with

+

IMPROVE SUSTAINABILITY WITH EASY-TO-USE SOIL SENSORS SELF-POWERED With long-lasting, rechargeable batteries

ACCURATE DATA Sensors are at the edge of spirals - undisturbed soil.

Find a dealer near you at www.reinke.com Your Reinke dealer will work with you in everything from custom design, to installation, to making sure your irrigation system performs as expected year after year.

ZAMBIA, LUSAKA GREEN 2000 LIMITED REINKE SOUTH AFRICA PTY LTD

+260 211 257 074

david@green-2000.com

031 350 4525

patrickellis@reinke.com

We also trade in Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Uganda, Nigeria, Sudan, and Egypt.

Irrigation in Namibia:

by Natasha Kruger

Reinke pivot makes the impossible possible Customers inspire AgriTurf and Reinke's team so that they can help their farmers plan superior solutions that make a meaningful difference in water and irrigation management.

Dries Venter's Rhodes grass under his superb Reinke pivot.

I

n 1980, Dries Venter, the owner of Dries laughs as he elaborates: "People Tzaus Bonsmara stud located apwho came to my farm thought I was proximately 50 kilometres north of the crazy, but I already started, and I Outjo district in Namibia, began farmcouldn't stop." ing with nothing and had to borrow When his neighbour invited him to everything he needed to start. visit a friend's farm, he saw the LEPA He took out a loan for a security irrigation system that was installed by deposit for 200 heifers and he was AgriTurf – that is when he decided to required to pay initial instalments of plant his own feed. When he visited the R5 000. The loan was to be repaid farm, they attached a sprinkler to spray over a period of five years with interdirectly from their water tank as a demest. Dries says: "That is how I started onstration. "I was astonished by the farming; for two years I only ate porsize of the drops that fell in such a large ridge to build up my farm." The desire area, with such low pressure," he says. to become a farmer developed in him Reinke uses lighter, but stronger from a young age. steel for their pivots, which means they In 1981, Dries began raising Bonsconsume less power, and he learned mara cattle. “After completing my this after conducting his own research education in agriculture, I moved on to on pivots. As he has a limited electriciresearching the various cattle breeds. ty budget and does not want to deplete My preference went to the Bonsmara his water supply, Dries was impressed breed, but I also had a lot of respect for

by Reinke’s efficiency when it comes to the Afrikaner breed,” he said. However, power consumption and proper water Bonsmara was the only breed that was application. He says: “Reinke is a price developed scientifically and subjected competitive centre pivot that uses less to performance tests. After all, Profeswater and power, which is very imporsor Bonsma did performance tests on tant for me.” his cattle and did not just look at their Dries only has single-phase power heads and horns, and Dries found that on his farm, but AgriTurf and Reinke his policy appealed to him quite a bit. helped him to overcome this limitation.

For eight of the past ten years, Dries He says: "They provided me with all has experienced drought. Because of the equipment I needed for my singlethis, he was forced to invest almost all phase power, and they installed solar the money he made from selling his panels on top of that to combine it so cattle in feed, so he decided to start that I do not need three-phase power." producing his own feed in an effort to From February to March 2021, he save money. "When I decided to install had a challenging time setting up the an irrigation system, I discovered that Reinke pivot during the rainy season. my land was covered with rocks". Dries He adds: "I also have not yet finished explains that he used a road grader removing all the rocks at that time." for three years and removed between As he was still removing the remainder 2 500 and 3 700 tonnes of rocks from of the rocks, he could only plant his the land. first oats on August 16, 2021. After Fertiliser Labour reduction DIY Easy Save up to 25% savings installation manual farm ProAgri Zambia 77 Save up to Install sensors management 20%. Eliminate

harvesting the first crop, the field was ploughed and prepared for planting Rhodes grass.

Dries says: "We are now planting Rhodes grass because it is perennial with a lifespan of approximately 4 years, after which I will decide whether I will continue with this grass, or plant something else." When they planted and ploughed the oats, it caused a significant change in the texture of the soil, even with the already acidic groundwater and soil. The soil structure has greatly improved as a result of this.

The Reinke pivot works perfectly on his farm. He is fully satisfied with the product and service he received.

Dries declares: "AgriTurf's customer service is outstanding. I know if I ever have any problems, I can just call, and they'll come and help me. "I am a big advertiser for Reinke in my area."

For more information on how AgriTurf can assist you with all your irrigation needs and the distribution of Reinke products in Namibia, contact them at sales@ agriturf.com.na or (+264)83-3308380, or visit their website www. agriturfnamibia.com.

Alternatively, contact Patrick Ellis on +27(0)31-350-4525, or e-mail patrickellis@reinke.com, or visit their website at www.reinke.com for more information.

7

FES takes the lead in Zambian land preparation solutions

F

arming and Engineering Services Africa (FES) is proud to offer bespoke land preparation services aligned with Farming and Engineering the demands of Zambian farmers. Services Africa (FES) is proud to offer bespoke land preparation FES, an integrated agricultural services aligned with the soludemands of Zambian farmers. tions provider to the agricultural sector in Malawi, Zambia and beyond, estabFES, an integrated agricultural solutions provider to the agricultural sector in Malawi, lished in 1967, provides the best valueZambia beyond in 1967, provides the best value-for-money offering to their for-moneyand offering to their established clients by focusing on three key areas: clients by focusing on three key areas: 1. Time: With tight preparation and planting windows to maximize growing harvesting 1. optimal Time: Withand tight preparation and planting windows to maximize optimal growing and conditions, FES is aware of the harvesting conditions. pressure on Zambian farmers to FES is aware of the pressure on Zambian farmers to “get the “get the crop in the ground”. Our crop in the ground.” Our fleet is maintained by word-class technicians and staff ed by fleet is maintained by word-class technicians and staffed by expeexperienced operators to ensure high mechanical availability, getting the job done rienced operators to ensure high FES’s fleet is maintained by worldas fastavailability, as possible mechanical getting the class technicians. job done as quickly as possible.

2. Cost: Cost: By perfectly matching machinery and implements to the land preparation By perfectly matching machinery and implements to the operation required, we ensure minimum cost per hectare. land preparation operation re3. quired, Quality: Ourminimum seasoned we ensure cost operators have years of experience and know the per hectare. expectations of farmers and do not compromise on the quality of operation.

3. Quality: Our seasoned operators 2.

have years of experience. They

know the expectations of farmApart from traditional land preparation and tillage operations, FES also offers surface and ers and do not compromise on the quality of operation. subsurface water management solutions to ensure effective drainage of fields.

We offer and topographic surveying, which can be used as an input to Apart from drone traditional landground-based preparation and tillage operations, FES also offers design software packages such as OptiSurface for surface water management and Trimble’s surface and subsurface water management solutions to software ensure effective WM-Subsurface for subsurface drainage design. drainage of fields.

We offer drone and ground-based topographic surveying, which can be used as an input to design software packages such as OptiSurface for surface water management and Trimble’s

Tobe bethe the leading innovative, integrated, To leading innovative, integrated, and environmentally and environmentally sound agricultural sound agricultural 8 and equipment

and equipment solutions partner solutions partner in Africa.

Malawi Head Office

Zambia Head Office

Kaohsiung Road, Mandala, Blantyre, Malawi

Cairo Road, North End, Lusaka, Zambia

+265 1 812 060 enquiries@fesmw.com

+260Zambia 211 238 ProAgri 77861/2 enquiries@feszm.com

irrigation design and implementation

specialists.

We areChallenger proud to be able to These designs can then be implemented, utilising RTK guidance on their

bring Zimmatic and Netafim solutions to farmers in Zambia, offering irrigation reliability and efficiency throughout the season.

To take your production to the next Furthermore, FES has industry-leading irrigation design andlevel, implementation specialists.

FES has partnered with Croptomistic Technology Inc to offer soil, We are proud to be able to bring Zimmatic and Netafim solution to farmers in Zambia, water and topography mapping using their SWATBox. This enables farmers offering irrigation reliability and efficiency The FES operatorsthroughout have years of the ex- season. to optimize inputs and manage field perience and know the expectations variability. of farmers.

AgriLab, part of the FES Group, is the ISO accredited soil laboratory To take your production to the next level, FES has partneredin-house with Croptomistic that can analyse soil samples taken in management zones to offer Technology Inc to offer soil, water and topography mappingidentified using their SWATBox. This variable rate fertiliser recommendaenables farmers to optimize inputs and manage field variability. tions and prescription maps.

Whatever you need, FES is the leading, innovative, integrated and environmentally sound agricultural and AgriLab, part of the FES Group, is the in-house ISO accredited soil laboratory that can equipment solutions provider.

tractors pulling Miskin ejector scrapers or tile-ploughs.

analyse soil samples taken in identified management zones to off er variable rate fertilizer recommendations and prescription maps.

FES’ Zambia head office is located at Cairo Road North End, Lusaka.

To enquire about FES Zambia’s preparation solutions, or to Whatever you need, FES is the leading, innovative, integratedland and environmentally WM-Subsurface software for subsurrequest a personalised cost estiface drainage design. mate, e-mail: enquiries@feszm. sound agricultural and equipment provider.

These solutions designs can then be implecom, call the office at: +260-211mented, using RTK guidance on their 238-861/2, or visit our website at Challenger tractors pulling Miskin ejecwww.fes.africa.

FES’ Zambia head office is located tor at Cairo Road North End, Lusaka. scrapers or tile-ploughs.

To enquire into FES Zambia’s land preparation solutions, or to request a personalised cost estimate, email: Furthermore, FES has industry-leading FES is not just about equipment; it is about integrated solutions.

enquiries@feszm.com or call our office at: +260 211 238 861/2

FES is the sole franchise holder for ProAgri Zambia 77

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ProAgri Zambia 77

Fatten your beef cattle with Novatek Feedlot 85

by Lemmy Sikumba

Breed

Fast-growing breeds will generally give you higher yields. Exotic beef breeds will put on weight quicker than local breeds.

Grazing distance

Animals that do not move long distances to graze will gain weight quicker than animals that move long distances.

Health status

A healthy animal will eat more feed and put on weight quicker than one that is unhealthy.

Fresh water

An adequate supply of clean and fresh water ensures animals are hydrated at all times.

Space

F

eed-lotting (also called pen fattening) involves the feeding of beef cattle with a high protein, energy balanced diet for a period of 60 to 90 days in confinement to increase live and slaughter weights. The basic principle of the feedlot is to increase the weight of each animal as quickly as possible.

Depending on the initial body weight and target weight, animals that start out thin will generally take longer to reach slaughter weight.

Actual feeding practices

To help farmers successfully fatten up their cattle, we recommend the Novatek Feedlot 85 concentrate, which is a high protein fattening concentrate.

To feed the animals, the farmer needs to mix the concentrate with raw materials such as maize bran or No 3 meal, maize silage, corn & cob, cotton cake, or sunflower cake in order to make feed. (See table below.)

There are generally two feeding systems used when fattening cattle:

Total mixed rations

Under total mixed rations, the roughage portion (mostly grass) is chopped into small pieces, mixed with the

concentrate and the other raw materials, and then fed as a whole. This reduces sorting and selection of the feed by animals and will allow the animal to get all the required nutrients in the correct quantities.

Cafeteria system

Under the cafeteria system, the grass is fed separately from the concentrate feed. Farmers practicing the cafeteria system have an option of letting the animals graze, or cutting the grass and taking it to the animals. The concentrate feed has to be introduced slowly to help the animals adapt to the new feed. However, the grass has to be fed on a free choice basis to help keep the stomach healthy. Lack of roughage causes a drop in the rumen pH, causing acidosis.

Getting the best out of Novatek Feedlot 85

Factors to consider when using Feedlot 85:

Age

Young animals will put on weight much quicker than older animals. Younger animals will generally give you better quality meat than older animals.

Ensure there is adequate feeding space to help avoid overfeeding, and also prevent stronger animals from chasing others away from the feed.

Introduce the feed gradually and mix ingredients thoroughly as recommended: 100 kg of molasses can replace maize bran/no 3 meal on a 1:1 basis in all rations containing no molasses.

TMR system: Start adapting animals by supplying the starter ration ad lib (free access) for 10 days, then move over to grower or finisher ration depending on the size and age of the animals.

Cafeteria system: This basically means that the hay is fed on an ad lib (free access) basis away from the mixed concentrate. Feed growers for light calves, followed by finisher. The adaption period will be as shown below: Note: Grower rations are suitable for smaller animals weighing less than 350 kg, and finisher rations are suitable for animals heavier than 350 kg.

At Novatek we ensure that our farmers get the best nutrition and value for money to ensure that our customers are feeding for prosperity.

Mixing instructions:

Packaging: 40 kg For more information on how to feed your beef cattle for optimum profitability, visit Novatek’s website www. novatekfeeds.com, or contact Robert Kanyembo on (+26)978-779-017 or by sending an e-mail to salesmanager@ novatek.co.zm.

ProAgri Zambia 77

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ProAgri Zambia 77

Image source: Pixabay

Syngenta at your service:

by Felix Tembo

Ensure seed and food security with productive technologies

T

he world is undergoing great shocks due to climate change. Every drop of water is more important than ever before. Agriculture has become more scientific, and farmers that depend on rainfall to water their crops need to ensure that every drop is utilised to the maximum.

To successfully grow a crop, a farmer needs a lot of inputs. These include good quality seed, fertilisers, water, and crop protection products.

Zambia has become an important country in seed production for the region. Seed for different crops, especially maize, is grown in this country and exported to several countries.

To produce quality seed, farmers need to ensure that it does not have diseases and does not harbour post-harvest pests such as the larger grain borers and weevils. There are restrictions to import maize seed from countries like Kenya because of some dangerous diseases like maize lethal necrotic virus (MLN), which is caused by a virus called maize chlorotic virus (MCMV).

Viral diseases are normally transmitted by vectors that injects saliva contaminated with viruses in the process of feeding on the crop. It is, therefore, important to control the population of vectors that transmit this deadly disease. Viral diseases in plants or crops, just like in humans, have no cure.

Control of viral diseases Whether the areas are contaminated with vectors that transmit viral diseases or not, production of maize for both seed and grain must continue.

The question to answer is how do farmers protect their crops against such deadly diseases? The best solution available is to control the population of vectors and to protect the crop against their attacks.

Normally, farmers would spray their crops once they see aphids or grasshoppers attacking their crops. However, this is a reactive strategy, or firefighting, as many farmers would call it.

The danger of this is that some plants would have been infected already. This means that the plant population will diminish because infected plants will die.

Several technologies can be used to control these vectors. Some of the products on the market are ACTARA and DENIM Fit from Syngenta. There are other solutions too that can be used.

It should be noted that sometimes spraying foliar products might impact on other beneficials depending on when

Proactive measures to deal with pests threatening your crop is better than a reactive response. and how you spray. The unfortunate part is that control of the vectors using natural enemies is not very effective, especially when we are potentially dealing with a viral disease. It is important to nip it in the bud before it is spread.

This disease has the potential to cause famine and hunger in any community or country if not well managed.

The most effective way to control such vectors is to ensure that the seedling is protected from day one.

The protection should start from the time the seed is planted, because we are not sure when the aphids, for instance, will attack our crops.

One of the best solutions that fits into this regime is the use of seed treatments. This will protect the seed from day one when it is planted up to a particular period in the growth stage of the crop. One such solution is FORTENZA Duo. FORTENZA Duo is a combination of two products that act synergistically to control most of the soil, foliar and post-harvest pests. This product is activated on seed just before planting and offers protection up to four weeks after planting. It offers control against soil pests such as white grub, false wireworms, cutworms, corn rootworms and many other soil pests. It also protects your crop during the first four weeks of establishment from the devasting fall armyworms, aphids, thrips, and grasshoppers.

Some of these foliar pests are very important in the transmission of this deadly disease. Therefore, by controlling such vectors, we are in a way managing deadly diseases like NLD and MSV.

ProAgri Zambia 77

Productivity tools With advent of climate change and rising costs of inputs like fertilisers, crop protection products and seed, global food security is at risk. Countries that will be adversely affected are mainly those from the third world like ours. It is, therefore, prudent that we effectively put to use crop production.

In agriculture, the emphasis will be more on productivity than ever before.

This will entail sensible management of the land through soil health practices, use of proven technologies that help to improve production, and analysing the cost benefit analysis of each input.

Again, FORTENZA Duo scores highly in helping to improve productivity. CRUISER, one of the products in FORTENZA Duo, has been proven to help develop an effective root system for the plant. This helps the plant to grow with vigour besides controlling various soil and foliar pests.

At the early establishment of a plant, you want it to grow strongly so that it can fend off disease or pest attacks besides exploring enough soil mass to extract water and nutrients. These are the basics of crop production.

Therefore, we urge farmers to try this technology which the small-scale farmers that are under Farmer Input Support Program (FiSP) have appreciated for five seasons now. Zambia has been food secure as well as seed secure; we need to continue on this road to success and prosperity.

In a world struggling with climate change that affects food security, the emphasis is placed on improved production.

For more information about solutions to protect any type of seed, visit www.syngenta.com or contact Felix Tembo, Seedcare Syngenta Key Account Manager for Southern Africa, by sending an e-mail to felix.tembo-1@syngenta.com, or call +260-967-382-102.

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ProAgri Zambia 77

Successful rabbit farming with Tiger Animal Feeds – Part 1

What a farmer needs to know about rabbits R

abbits are commonly raised around the world to sell their meat and for gathering fur.

Their meat is very tasty.

Rabbit fur is of high quality, having extensive application in the textile industry in developed countries.

Since rabbits are small animals, not too much space is required to set up a rabbit farm. These animals adapt easily to most climatic conditions, but certain specific measures need to be taken for responsible commercial farming. Rabbits also make great pets.

To fulfil the food demand for a growing population, we must find different ways of food production. The rabbit, known as “micro-livestock”, can be a great source of food production. This provides an opportunity for rabbit farming, and commercial production can be a good source of income and employment.

Rabbits are small, furry mammals with long ears, short fluffy tails, and strong, large hind legs. They become sexually mature between six to eight months after birth and can continue to reproduce for four years. Their gestation period is 31 days, and a female can produce up to 12 young ones each time she gives birth.

Rabbits are economically viable livestock due to their high reproductive rates compared with other livestock and their meat is highly marketable, fetching good market prices. The Tiger Animal Feeds Technical Department has the expertise and knowledge to support interested farmers going into rabbit farming on a commercial level.

The rabbit farming business does not require too much capital to start.

Proper containments are necessary to provide shelter for the rabbits and to protect them from predators. It is possible to start off with a few rabbits and eventually increase the number. Enough fodder should be gathered for the farm.

The main commercial aspects of rabbit farming are the fast-breeding nature of the female rabbit, and lowcapital feeding requirements. Rabbit meat is known for its high protein and low-fat content. Though rabbit meat demand in Zambia is still low, it is steadily growing to a commercial level.

Hence, Tiger Animal Feeds is offering free technical advice to interested rabbit farmers.

A sufficient space in your backyard or terrace should be reserved for this purpose. Such a setup is simple and requires very little investment.

It is important to do market research before you start. Rabbit meat will definitely have a large market internationally, therefore, export options should be considered.

Advantages of rabbit farming

Why is rabbit farming a feasible option?

Considering the high input cost of other enterprises like broilers, pigs, and beef, rabbit farming can be a good alternative farming business. There is also not much competition.

The small space and low costs needed, combined with a high production capacity, makes this business a suitable option even for the unemployed youth in the country. A healthy female rabbit can produce about 50 young ones yearly, on average. One can simply start off with very few rabbits.

Rabbit meat is considered white meat since it consists of mostly poly-unsaturated fatty acids. This means rabbit meat is a health product with very high protein and low fat content.

Rabbits are also the best wool producers based on wool produced per kilogram of body weight, because rabbits need about 30% less digestible energy for producing wool compared to sheep. This wool can be mixed with natural and synthetic fibres like sheep wool, rayon, and nylon to produce higher quality handlooms. Rabbit wool is also about eight times warmer than sheep’s wool. In addition, rabbit manure is a good source for composting soil used for crops.

How to raise rabbits profitably

The most important part of rabbit farming is the housing provided for the animals. They should be protected from natural predators like snakes, as well as from possible attacks from other animals. Proper housing also keep the rabbits protected against extreme conditions like sunburn, heavy rain, storms, and strong winds.

Exposure to rain for too long can cause respiratory complications or even pneumonia.

ProAgri Zambia 77

There are many advantages to commercial rabbit farming: 1. Rabbits are very fastgrowing animals.

2. Their food conversion rate is better than that of other animals.

3. One female rabbit can give birth to about 2 to 8 kits each time.

4. Rabbits can be raised in a small space.

5. Production costs are lower, compared to other large sized animals.

6. Rabbit meat is very tasty, nutritious, and easily digestible. People of any age can eat it without any problem.

7. In terms of meat production, rabbits are similar to poultry.

8. Rabbits require less labour compared to another animals, and can easily become a family venture.

9. Commercial rabbit farming requires relatively little capital, and you will get back your investment within a very short period.

10. As it is a highly profitable business, commercial production can be a great source of earning and employment creation.

11. You can meet your family's nutritional demands by raising a few rabbits.

As an investor, or a farmer, or a youth wishing to invest in livestock production, consider rabbit production as a good option. Tiger Animal Feeds can be your best partner for rabbit feed and technical support.

Prepared by Barbra Mulonda Simbaya, Tiger Animal Feeds Technical Advisor. You can contact her on +260-969-202-207.

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ProAgri Zambia 77

Cattle breeds Part 1 B

eef production in Southern Africa has a long history, with cattle being farmed for a variety of purposes in diverse cultures throughout the continent in the present and past. Different species are adapted to different climatic conditions, regions, and production takes place almost everywhere on the continent.

Afrikaner cattle

The Afrikaner breed has regained popularity, owing to its hardiness and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, especially hot weather.

This breed could help the beef industry cope with rising temperatures due to climate change.

The Afrikaner is a medium to largeframed breed of cattle with a deep red or yellow colour. Their horns are long and turn upward, but they are dehorned in commercial operations.

A mature bull weighs between 750

and 1 000 kg, and a cow is around 525 to 600 kg. The cattle are oval in build, with strong legs, a good depth of body, and loose skin to tolerate the heat.

Afrikaner cows are excellent mothers, easy to calve with low mortality rates because of the relatively small calves at birth, and plenty of milk. A cow can produce ten or more calves in her lifetime and has a good temperament.

Afrikaner bulls have a long productive life of up to 12 years and produce mother-line progeny.

Production regions Afrikaner cattle are produced throughout South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique. The cattle are resistant to malignant catarrhal fever, making them ideal for farming in game areas and even poor-quality veld in extensive feeding systems.

Due to the Afrikaner migration from Asia, only animals that could survive in

ProAgri Zambia 77

An Afrikaner bull with horns that grow upward. (Source: afrikanerbees.com)

Dehorned calves, cows, and bulls of the Afrikaner breed. (Source: afrikanerbees.com) 17

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ProAgri Zambia 77

arid desert conditions, extreme heat, tropical diseases, and both internal and external parasites were considered. Due to these traits, the Afrikaner has earned the title of “no-nonsense” breed. It is thus one of the few breeds in South Africa that can be produced year-round on extensive veld.

Uses The Afrikaner is of the Sanga type and belongs to the Bos taurus africanus group. The breed was used to create the Bonsmara and the Drakensberger with Shorthorn genetics. The breed has been used to improve indigenous cattle in tropical countries due to its fertility, docility, and excellent weight gain in their progeny. They are bred for the production for meat, milk, and the thick hide that makes good quality leather.

Meat quality The Afrikaner's meat quality is comparable to that of Angus cattle, which is regarded as the best beef cattle and is considered juicy and tender meat.

The Afrikaners’ hardiness allows them to finish them off in the veld, avoiding the need for a feedlot to gain weight before being sent to the abattoir. Afrikaner beef production is almost organic. The Afrikaner Breeders Society created the Afri Beef label as a marketing campaign to guarantee the quality of meat sold under this label.

international beef breed due to its excellent meat quality, polled status (lack of horns), and rapid marketing weight gain because of its good feed conversion ratio.

The Angus is a medium-framed breed of cattle. A mature bull weighs around 850 kg and a cow around 550 kg.

There is no genetic difference between Red and Black Angus cattle, although Red Angus cattle are said to be less sensitive to heat stress, lowering their risk of cancer and sunburned udders.

Production regions Angus cattle do well in cooler climates, but they can also withstand harsh weather. They are still crossbred, primarily with Brahman and Bonsmara, to improve meat quality and increase their offspring's weight. They produce high-quality carcasses in intensive feeding systems such as feedlots. They are very well adapted to natural veld or planted pasture production systems.

Uses The breed belongs to the Bos taurus group. Crossbreeding is widely used with Angus cattle to improve carcass

Angus beef

Angus, also known as Aberdeen Angus, was one of the first cattle breeds bred solely for beef. The breed is named after the county of Angus in Aberdeenshire, North East Scotland.

Angus cattle have become a leading

A Red Angus cow. (Source: Pexels. com by Tom Small)

quality and milk production. Angus cows calve easily and have good calfrearing abilities. Because the polled gene is passed down as a dominant characteristic, it is also used as a genetic dehorner.

Meat quality The Angus Society launched the Angus Beef project in 1989 to emulate the success of the US-based Certified Angus Beef programme. The project allows customers to distinguish between Angus beef and beef from other cattle.

The society considers Angus beef superior to other breeds due to superior marbling (intermuscular fat). This marbling improves flavour, tenderness, and moisture retention in the meat.

Beefmaster

The Beefmaster is classified as a crossbreed as the breed has 25% Hereford, 25% Shorthorn, and 50% Brahman genetics. It was bred to be more productive and to live in harsh environmental conditions.

The Beefmaster was named after its superiority, or as the “meat machine.”

The Beefmaster is a medium-framed breed. The cows are excellent mothers with good milk production. Calves are small at birth, so birth complications are rare, but they grow quickly and achieve some of the best weaning weights of all breeds. A mature bull weighs can exceed 1 200 kg and a cow around 800 kg.

The Beefmaster's colour has never been a breeding priority, but the cattle usually have a brownish-red coat colour.

Production regions Beefmaster cattle have a gentle temperament and disposition that make

A Beefmaster bull. (Source: Pixabay. com by DawidFourie)

Bulls of Black and Red Angus breed. (Source: angus.org.za) ProAgri Zambia 77

A Beefmaster bull. (Source: Pixabay. com by DawidFourie) 19

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ProAgri Zambia 77

Calves and cows from the Bonsmara breed. (Source: iStockphoto.com by EcoPic)

Bull of the Bonsmara breed.

(Source: frontierbonsmaras.co.za) them easy to handle. They are also very adaptable, so they are produced in South Africa and other African countries. The cattle are resistant to heat, drought, and insects.

Uses Beefmaster cattle can be used in closed herds or crossbred to improve the meat quality, maternal traits, and hardiness of other breeds. Registered Beefmaster bulls can easily increase a farmer's profit per calf when bred to indigenous breeds, by increasing the weaning weight of commercial herds by 20 to 30 kilogrammes.

Feedlots are willing to pay a premium for Beefmaster calves due to their adaptability, rapid weight gain, and high meat yield.

Meat quality Beefmaster beef is of excellent quality, which has resulted in high consumer and abattoir demand for the meat.

Bonsmara

Bonsmara cattle are typically used for beef production and belong to the Bos taurus group. The breed consists of 5/8 Afrikaner with its adaptability, 3/16 Hereford with its meat production and 3/16 Shorthorn with its milk production. This breed is known for its adaptability, suitability for extensive

production, and excellent meat quality.

The Bonsmara has distinguished itself as an “easy-care” breed.

The Bonsmara is a medium-framed breed, red in colour, and is born with horns. In order to comply with breed standards, the Bonsmara must be dehorned. Mature cows weigh 500 to 550 kg and have sufficient milk production to wean strong calves.

The bulls weigh around 900 kg. However, weight varies greatly depending on the quality of the veld on which the cattle are raised, with sour veld farmers preferring smaller animals than sweet veld farmers.

The cows are excellent mothers and are resistant to many of the tick-borne diseases that plague the more European breeds. To avoid problems, a good anti-parasite programme should be followed.

The breed is also easy to handle on the farm and in feedlots.

Production regions Because the breed thrives under extensive conditions, it is found throughout South Africa. It is also in high demand in Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Kenya.

They do well on veld in areas with less than 150 mm of rain per year, but also in areas with more than 2 400 mm. The breed is well adapted to hot climates.

It thrives in thorn, mixed bush, tall grass, and sour-veld areas of tropical and temperate climates.

Uses The Bonsmara is a versatile breed that can be used to improve the meat and mothering qualities of other breeds.

When crossed with Brahman, they produce excellent offspring, and they are frequently crossed with Charolais or Limousine for weaner production to sell at a premium. It is a good feedlot

ProAgri Zambia 77

weaner because of the breed's high growth rate and feed conversion ratio.

Meat quality The meat has excellent marbling and it is juicy and tender. The fact that the animal is docile also means that it is less stressed in the feedlot, which could have an effect on the meat quality. Bonsmara cattle produce a highquality carcass.

References Southafrica.co.za. (2022). South African Beef Breeds. [online] Available at: https://southafrica.co.za/ south-african-beef-breeds.html Loubser, A., Schutte, N. and Hofmeyr, I., (2007). Cattle breeds of South Africa. Pretoria, AgriConnect, Pages 97-165.

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Rabbit farming Part 5:

Breeding and herd management

by Natasha Kruger

I

n a single year, a doe can have up to 12 litters of kits. The average litter size is six kits, which means that if a doe is constantly in the presence of a buck, she could be able to produce approximately 72 kits a year.

Rabbit breeding Sexual maturity is reached by both doe and buck around the age of six to eight months. When the time comes for breeding, the doe should be transferred to the buck’s enclosure, which Number

can be done either in the morning or in the evening.

Puberty typically occurs when a doe reaches 70 to 75% of her mature weight. In most cases, however, it's better to wait until they've gained 80% of their adult weight before mating them.

Long before the female can ovulate and give birth to a litter, she exhibits sexual behaviour (acceptance of mating). The breeder should not treat this as a sign of puberty, but rather as a sign of prepubescent play.

Origin

Date of Birth of Doe

Palpate (Day of mounting +14 days)

Expected Kindling (Mounting + 31 days)

Does are thought to be in oestrus for most of their lives. The doe has an oestrus cycle that can occur without regular periods of heat. When a female rabbit accepts service, she is in oestrus (heat), and when she rejects him, she is in dioestrus. After the doe has been successfully mated, ovulation will occur.

A doe in heat is characterised by an arched back and raised hindquarters.

When a doe is in dioestrus, she is more likely to hide in a corner of the cage or show aggression towards the buck.

A doe with a red vulva will accept mating and ovulate 90% of the time, but a doe with a non-red vulva will only accept and ovulate 10% of the time. As a result, the presence of a red vulva is a good sign, but not a sure thing of oestrus.

In most cases, successful mating is over in a matter of seconds, and the male will fall off the female while making a distinctive noise. Getting a better pregnancy rate and a larger litter size is easier when the female is mated two times a day, one in the morning and one at night.

Cage number Commentarios Mounting Buck Date

1

Date of Kindling

2

3

1

#Kits

Live / Dead

2

3

Weaned Kits (Date of Kindling + 28 days)

**********Date to check receptivity (Kindling date + 7 days) Mounting Buck Date

1

Date of Kindling

3

1

#Kits

Live / Dead

2

Expected Kindling (Mounting + 31 days)

Buck Date

Date of Kindling

1

Palpate (Day of mounting +14 days)

2

3

#Kits

Live / Dead

Date for Nest Box (Expected Kindling - 3 days)

3

Weaned Kits (Date of Kindling + 28 days)

**********Date to check receptivity (Kindling date + 7 days) Mounting

How many?

**********

Palpate (Day of mounting +14 days)

2

A doe and buck mating. (Image source: gojackrabbitgo.com)

Date for Nest Box (Expected Kindling - 3 days)

How many?

********** Expected Kindling (Mounting + 31 days)

**********Date to check receptivity (Kindling date + 7 days)

Date for Nest Box (Expected Kindling - 3 days)

Weaned Kits (Date of Kindling + 28 days)

How many?

**********

Written record for the management of a rabbit herd. (Image source: The Peace Corps, 2014) ProAgri Zambia 77

Rabbits have an estimated gestation period of 30 days, therefore a doe should be kept in a cage by herself for the first 20 days after mating. A doe will pluck fur from herself before giving birth to build a nest for her offspring.

Additional bedding material, such as gunny bags, paddy straw, or sawdust, must be placed inside the nest Herd management A whiteboard and a calendar should be prominently displayed on the farm, as farmers will use the calendar to manage the white board. For this system to work, a set of basic rules must be learned and memorised, or the white board and calendar can be accompanied by a sheet with these rules: Breeding rules • Day 1: Check for receptivity (swollen, darkened vulva) and bring the doe to the buck's cage.

• Day 14: Palpate the doe (13 days from mating) to see if the mating was successful. If mating failed, 23

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ProAgri Zambia 77

check for receptivity the next day.

Day 28: If palpation confirms pregnancy, place a nest box in the hutch (14 days from palpation).

Day 31: You should expect kindling three days after the nest box was provided.

Day 33 to 60: Look for rebreeding receptivity (this is highly dependent on diet quality and can range from a few days after kindling to two months).

• • •

Weaning rules • Day 45: Remove the nest box (14 days after birth).

• Day 59: Wean the kits from the doe (28 days after birth).

Before giving birth, a doe will pluck her own fur (usually on the belly) for the kits in the nesting box. (Image source: wordpress.com)

Using the above “rules”, create a farm grid (a visual representation of the hutch layout or orientation) on a white board. Make each square on the grid a hutch. Each square must have at least one “task” represented by a date written in a colour that corresponds to the task type. The tasks and colour markers must be completed in order to comply with the aforementioned rules.

The daily farm work consists of a walk through the farm to feed and water the herd. During this time, a simple inspection of the hutches can reveal any unusual issues that require attention.

After feeding and watering, the farmer reviews the task list. The farmer should look for that day's date (and any boxes with past dates). The date (or a circled date) tells the farmer which hutch has a task to complete (based on the grid that represents the farm layout) and what the task is (based on the colour of the marker used).

The system works on the premise that for every task completed, another

one arises. Therefore, if a doe is successfully palpated on day 14, that tells the farmer to write down the next date for which a task is required. For example, the palpation confirming pregnancy (14 days from palpation), place a nest box inside the hutch (Day 28). Because future tasks must be written on the whiteboard, the calendar displayed with the system is essential.

There is usually only one task per square on the grid, but there can be multiple tasks. It will be checked after kindling for receptivity and weaning will be set up with the doe's kindling date in mind.

Extra cages for young fryer (nonproducing) rabbits can also be mapped onto the grid, but since they have no “management tasks” that use this system, they can be either blacked out or marked with an “X”.

If a doe is not receptive on the day of the task, the farmer circles the date in the same colour. Deferred tasks are highlighted on the board and can be

1 Day 1 dd/mm

8 Day 14 dd/mm

15 Day 45 dd/mm

22 fryer

2 fryer

X

9 Day 14 dd/mm

16 Day 31 dd/mm

23 Day 31 dd/mm

3 Day 28 dd/mm

10 Day 1 dd/mm

17 fryer

X

24 Day 45 dd/mm

4 Day 31 dd/mm

11 fryer

18 Day 45 dd/mm

25 Day 28 dd/mm

5 Day 59 dd/mm

12 Day 59 dd/mm

19 fryer

26 Day 14 dd/mm

6 fryer

X

13 Day 59 dd/mm

20 Day 28 dd/mm

27 Buck

7 Day 45 dd/mm

14 Day 45 dd/mm

21 Buck

28 Buck

X

X

X

X

X X

Table 1. Breeding and weaning rabbits are depicted graphically by a rabbit breeder whiteboard.

ProAgri Zambia 77

The doe should be taken to the buck’s cage for mating. (Image source: louispage.com) revisited the next day. A written log in a notebook or binder is a related management tool. Unlike the whiteboard, this keeps track of the herd.

Keeping production sheets on hand allows farmers to track the productivity of their breeding females and start selection based on productivity. The number of successfully weaned kits is a better measure of productivity than the number of kits born.

The information provided in this article is credited to: The Peace Corps. (2014). A Complete Handbook on Backyard and Commercial Rabbit Production. Available at: https://pclive.peacecorps.gov/ pclive/index.php/pclive-resources/ resource-library/1281-r0041complete-handbook-backyard-rabbit-production/file The National Department of Agriculture in South Africa in cooperation with JA Erasmus at the Glen Agricultural Development Institute. For more information visit www.daff.gov. za or send an e-mail to DPP@nda. agric.za.

Nurturing the roots of change in rural Kenya in cooperation with Bonnie Ami Holt at the Mitahato Education and Development Fund. For more information visit www.mitahatoedf. com/ or contact them on +254-728082887.

Dutta, P., Singh, R.K., Dhali, A. & Rajkhowa, C. (2009). Backyard rabbit farming. ISBN 10.13140/ RG.2.1.1742.5440/1. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/273886912 Lebas, F., Coudert, P., de Rochambeau, H. & Thébault, R. (1997). The rabbit - Husbandry, health, and production. ISBN 92-5-103441-9. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/ publication/38977233_The_Rabbit_ Husbandry_Health_and_Production

25

Is Infectious Bronchitis Variant 2 (IS/1494/06) a problem at your layer farm?

by Dr Oscar Blanco (DVM, PhD), Phibro Animal Health Corporation, Central and Eastern Africa

I

n issue 69 of ProAgri Zambia, we presented an overview of the signs and lesions of infectious bronchitis Variant 2 (also known as IS/1494/06) in broilers, layer hens and breeders. This variant was first reported in Zambia in 2017, and Phibro has detected it again in 2022, confirming its circulation in the country.

In this new article, we give information that may assist you to detect the problem at your layer enterprise.

Please consult your veterinarian to get a professional diagnosis, and to obtain guidance on how to protect your birds against IB Variant 2.

What do you see in layer birds?

In cases of early infection: If the infection with IB Variant 2 occurs during the pullet phase, there will be permanent damage in the reproductive tract. In cases when the virus infects the birds in the first or second week of age, birds may develop silent layer syndrome. In this case, birds reach sexual maturity and, most of the times, they look like normal adult hens, however, they do not produce eggs.

Although the ovary is functional and ovulation is verified, the oviduct (Figure 1) will develop cysts in its wall (Figure 2), preventing the progression of the yolk along the oviduct, resulting in failure to produce eggs. In a few cases, when cysts are very large, the abdomen appears distended and the birds adopt a penguin-like vertical position (Figure 2), waddling when walking. If the birds are in cages, the ones with distended abdomens normally choose to stay at the back of the cage. The egg yolks are released inside the abdomen and reabsorbed, although peritonitis (inflammation and infection in the abdomen) can sometimes develop.

It is difficult to detect false layers, as most of the time they do not show any signs suggesting disease. They are normally found when inspecting the flock due to unusual production curves, for example in flocks where there is a delay to reach peak and/or the maximum

26

production is considerably lower than the production target.

When layers get infected: Changes in egg production Although layers can be infected at any age, infection often occurs during the peak of lay. Infected flocks show a drop in production sometimes as large as 50%. Usually, egg production recovers in approximately 3 to 4 weeks, however it stabilises at levels lower than before the outbreak. That being said, some flocks do not show production drops. If birds are not vaccinated after the outbreak, using the correct

Figure 1: Reproductive tract of the hen. (After Jonchere et al, 2010)

Figure 2: Silent later syndrome. A, B and C: Cystic oviduct (CO). D: Penguin posture.

Figure 3: Eggshell alterations due to IB Variant 2. A: Normal; B: Discoloured eggs; C and H: Discoloured shells with calcium deposits; D and J: Soft shell eggs; E, F, and G: Misshapen eggs; I: White, brittle shell; K: Egg tray showing variations in colour and shape.

ProAgri Zambia 77

vaccine at the right time, the problem will return every 6 to 12 weeks; this normally results in oscillations of egg production, mostly accompanied by changes in egg quality.

Changes in egg quality The virus affects different sections of the oviduct (Figure 1), resulting in a range of changes in egg quality: Lesions in the magnum: The magnum (Figure 1) is the section of the oviduct that secretes the egg albumin. The inflammation of its wall results in eggs with very liquid albumin, or an albumin that liquifies within a couple of minutes after cracking the egg open.

Lesions in the uterus The uterus (Figure 1) is the organ where the shell is formed and the external cuticle, responsible for the egg colour, is deposited.

IB lesions in the uterus initially cause eggs to lose their shine and their traditional golden colour (Figure 3).

This translates into a range of different tones of brown when inspecting egg trays after collection (Figure 3). The

discolouration may eventually lead to completely white shells (Figure 3).

When the virus affects the uterine glands in charge of producing calcium carbonate, the shells become thinner, brittle, chalky, deformed, or even soft (when the mineralisation is totally absent) (Figure 3). Sometimes, eggs are laid with irregular deposits of calcium on their surface (Figure 3).

As mentioned above, if birds are not vaccinated with the correct vaccine and at the right times, the problems with egg quality and production will return in 6 to 12 weeks.

Other signs and lesions observed Infected layers can present mild respiratory problems, concurrent with inflammation of kidneys (nephritis), and diarrhoea. When the damage in the kidneys is severe, urates start to accumulate first in the kidneys (Figure 4) and then in other internal organs, a condition known as gout (Figure 4).

Daily mortality can sometimes be as high as 2%.

The impact on the flock’s performance can be intensified by the occurrence of secondary infections,

Figure 4: A. Nephritis (kidney inflammation); B. Urate accumulation on liver surface (gout). especially in flocks infected by mycoplasmas. These birds show generalised infections (septicaemia, polyserositis), and airsacculitis (inflammation of air sacs). This translates into long-haul respiratory symptoms, higher mortality, and low productive performance.

How to prevent infection with Variant 2?

As we mentioned in our article in ProAgri 69, Phibro IB VAR206 is the only vaccine that will give the highest protection against Variant 2, since it contains a virus that is the closest possible to the field strain. The optimum protection is achieved after priming the birds with two doses of the vaccine administered 10 to 14 days apart, followed by boosters at 10 to 12 weeks, just before transfer, and every 8 weeks in lay (Table 2).

The vaccine should be applied by coarse spray, or by eye drop, as levels of protection achieved with vaccination in drinking water are very poor. In order to protect against early Variant 2 infection and avoid the silent layer syndrome, birds should be spray vaccinated with Phibro IB VAR206 at day 1 at the hatchery, followed by a second spray vaccination at the farm at day 10. The vaccine can be sprayed together with Phibro VH against Newcastle disease.

Please visit Phibro Academy (www.academy.pahc.com), register, and access further information on IBV variants and other poultry topics via their range of online webinars.

ProAgri Zambia 77

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ProAgri Zambia 77

(Image source: pexels.com

by Joslyn Pickens)

Diversify your family business to insulate it from risks

by Trevor Dickinson

Y

our family business leadership must have a clear, compelling, and objective framework to ensure that good long-term decisions are made in the best interest of current and future shareholders.

Many well-established family agribusinesses find ways to generate new streams of income independent of the core business. Despite the longevity or success of the family business, the inherent risk is typically tied to the legacy business — which also happens to be where most of the family’s wealth resides.

What if there is a catastrophic business interruption? What if the supply shuts down? What if new technology or global competitors upend a oncedefensible position? Your family may very well run a tight ship, but there are many real-world possibilities for disruption that are simply beyond anyone’s control.

This is a common conversation among successful business families, especially from those who are thinking several generations ahead. There are many benefits to diversify a legacy business and providing alternative streams of cash flow. Risk management is typically the driving force, but there are other reasons too: preservation of long-term wealth, offsetting a cyclical industry,

extending the enterprising legacy of the family, capitalizing on the family’s unique ability to innovate.

Privately held firms actually have an advantage in innovation because of their long-term perspective on capital efficiency, which allows for the “patient

ProAgri Zambia 77

capital” attitude of owners to tolerate longer return cycles. Public companies, on the other hand, are pressured by short-term investors to focus on projects that maximise quick returns while demanding high hurdle rates.

If family businesses have such an

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(Image source: pexels.com by nappy) advantage in long-term investing, why do we not see more active diversification playing out? What is holding back families from capitalising on their own success? For many, it is simply a lack of expertise and direction in getting started. Looming questions arise: How do we evaluate industries or businesses we have no experience of? What kind of return expectations should we have?

How much capital should we allocate?

The answers require some level of investment strategy, process, and accountability, which most family businesses simply haven’t developed because, well, they’re far too busy running their existing business. While the core business may be firing on all cylinders, the risk of venturing into new territory can appear greater than the risk of sticking to what they know, which has plenty of its own challenges to deal with.

The fact is, diversifying into new business ventures is fraught with peril.

Therefore, family leadership must have a clear, compelling, and objective framework to ensure they are making good long-term decisions in the best interests of their current and future shareholders. Some families bypass this complication by parking their noncore investments in a third-party family office or private equity fund, leaving

it to experts to manage their choices.

Many families, however, are uncomfortable with the passive nature of this option, preferring hands-on control, security, and sense of ownership over their new endeavours. All the more reason to take a systematic approach to ensure you get it right.

Diversifying your family business is certainly not any easy task, but it can be successfully accomplished if the following steps are applied: 1. Establish a clear and compelling vision for diversifying the business Does your family vision statement tie the business to a single industry, or leave it open to grow from various sources? Despite your emotional attachment to the family business, it is nothing more than an asset representing a source of income and value creation. When families treat their business this way, they are more likely to acknowledge there may come a day when competitive pressures or capital requirements dictate the asset could create more value if it were liquidated and redeployed into higher-return opportunities. This may sound blasphemous to certain family members, but when you stop and think about it, your family business legacy is likely to be

ProAgri Zambia 77

more about growing wealth than clinging to a specific company or industry, especially if it is struggling to maintain relevance, or is losing value.

Articulating a clear statement of long-term intent cements your family’s commitment to enterprising beyond your core business, even if you are not sure what it might look like one or two generations from now. By raising the concepts of “diversified enterprises” as a purposeful direction for the family business, you also gain enthusiasm and buy-in from shareholders who will now publicly stand behind it, even expect it. Something powerful happens by agreeing on a future aspiration, writing it down and then providing frequent exposure to that message. You will eventually, make it happen.

2. Set the strategic framework and criteria Once a vision is established, the next step is to fill in details around strategy, which informs the type of industries and approaches you will take toward diversification. Start by casting a wide net around your playing field. What are you good at? What assets are currently underleveraged? What core competencies might be transferable to other markets or customers? This process taps into your unique capabilities to generate 31

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new, profitable sources of growth.

Next, layer in a filter of risk correlation. For example, would you prefer to focus on synergistic businesses, or countercyclical ones? Will you consider businesses related to your core enterprise, or do you want completely independent industries? An agricultural business historically depends on one product driven by commodity markets decided to venture into alternative commodities that were historically uncorrelated to its core product. You could also go horizontally forward or backward in your supply chain, but generally that only ties the risk further into your existing industry. Obviously, the less correlated an industry is with your core business, the more you are truly diversifying risk. Additional criteria to consider should include expected returns, industry growth rate, build versus buy, geographic limitations, and capital constraints.

3. Appoint a dedicated leader reporting directly to the CEO Many diversification attempts either sputter out or produce spotty results because they lack dedicated, focused, accountable leadership to see the mission through. A diversification initiative cannot be approached as a part-time effort with a “let’s see how it goes” attitude.

The pitfalls of approaching diversification as a side project of current management are two-fold: Either the core business sucks management back

in, leaving insufficient energy for the diversification initiatives; or the shiny new diversification projects become a distraction, drawing management’s attention away from the core enterprise.

Putting an objective leader in place can allow the business to cut through emotionally driven decision making — a weakness that family businesses are prone to that often leads to a hodgepodge of starts and stops that may or may not be consistent with the strategy.

Once your investment criteria have been agreed upon, a designated leader operating separately from the core business can provide objective analysis of new opportunities and ensure that the family is accountable for achieving outcomes rather than dabbling. If you are serious about it, put a competent individual in charge, and then structure the new initiatives to operate separate and apart from the core business.

4. Apply a process to narrow down the best choices Now that a strategy and criteria have been set, a process is needed to evaluate new opportunities. All ideas should be considered from a variety of sources, as if they are being thrown into a large funnel, except now there is a screening methodology for evaluating the strength of each proposition. The more aligned with strategic criteria, the further down the funnel the business idea will go. There should be just a few ideas coming out of the other side.

Despite the straightforward nature of

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this process, it is also where the family dynamics can get in the way, requiring management to remain disciplined.

During this phase, one should expend enough attention to validate a fit with criteria, but no more than a first-pass level. An internal review board is helpful to vet ideas that make it through to more advanced stages, forcing justification and validation of the most promising proposals.

5. Develop the best ideas into a full-scale business plan Here is where the viability of the business investment can be fully validated in great detail. This is no time for shortcuts or reliance on anecdotal information. Spend the time and energy necessary to develop a robust, dataheavy business plan with compelling market and financial justification, as if it were being pitched to an outside investment group. The business plan should cover typical components such as marketplace feedback. Industry growth rates, prospective customers, competitive landscape and a financial pro forma.

Ultimately, the business plan should clearly depict its unique strategic differentiator — Why will you win? What makes it a compelling investment?

Finally, get outside feedback from a third-party expert in the industry who can provide an unbiased perspective on your plan’s integrity and a critical view on its probability of success.

A designated devil’s advocate can provide a reality check on your assumptions around operations, market, customer, pricing, and competitors.

Even the most promising ventures will present challenges, so make sure you understand the minefields that will be faced.

6. Provide visibility and accountability Once the new business plan has been vetted, critiqued, and approved, now it is time to take the leap and launch. The business plan should provide a set of milestones for tracking progress, which also becomes an accountability mechanism to ensure appropriate oversight and course correction when necessary.

Be prepared to evolve and iterate.

Admit what you don’t know and bring in expertise to help operationalise when necessary. Diversification can be a risky proposition, but given the right commitment, process, and discipline, it can derisk your business in the best interest of current and future shareholders.

Trevor Dickinson is the CEO of Family Legacies, a family business consulting company. For more information visit www. family-legacies.com.

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ProAgri Zambia 77

Ancient African food Part 3:

The answer to Africa’s malnutrition and obesity?

I

n the previous two issues on ancient African foods, we discussed food security in Africa and how ancient food plants that are not cultivated anymore can help to add nutrients to the African diet. Modern foodplants do not provide enough nutrients, which leads to several disorders, including stunted growth and obesity. We also considered how different occurrences in history influenced the disappearance of these ancient foods from the African menu.

In this issue, we consider how these plants can be brought back to popularity to contribute to a healthier population.

Policies Jurie van der Walt, who has studied the value of ancient plants in the African diet, believes reinstating these foodplants on the African menu depends on changes in policy.

“The majority of farmers in Africa are small-scale farmers with less

than five hectares of land available to them,” says Jurie. “Therefore, policies that touch on farming systems at the subsistence-level have a direct effect on food availability and consumption.

“Policies that aim to rediscover lost native food crops will have strong and direct impacts on access to sustainable food. The loss of native food crops means loss of culinary identity, but by harnessing and rediscovering African native food plants, African societies have a chance to make a meaningful, lasting improvement to food security and the health and prosperity that accompanies it.”

Besides some research and small rural experiments, no large-scale and government-supported campaigns have been carried in Africa. Some effort has however been made in Kenya and Brazil.

The Brazilian example Brazil has done a lot to promote the

Children in Botswana are fed through a school feeding system.

(Photo: Nepad) ProAgri Zambia 77

by Tisha Steyn

School children in Burundi receive a nutritious meal at a school.

(Photo: Provided) importance of neglected and underutilised plant species (NUS), including promoting a variety of NUS plants in dietary guidelines, supporting production of these species through public procurement strategies, including for school feeding systems, and prioritising these species in national strategies and action plans as well as agriculture and nutrition policies.

Native food species with nutritional value are officially defined and formally recognised. This means that these species are cultivated or sustainably managed and wild-harvested by local communities. By formally recognising the value of these foodplants, they can be used for public food procurement, such as for school meals.

School feeding schemes Millions of school children all over the world are fed daily through feeding schemes. This provides an opportunity to provide and promote healthy foods, resetting eating norms in favour of nutrition.

“As homegrown school feeding programmes are currently being endorsed in many countries — with the aim of procuring food locally and encouraging agricultural development — there are progressively more opportunities to encourage sustainable and healthy sourcing of NUS,” says Jurie.

Kenya In Kenya, pilot projects have shown that underutilised, nutrient-rich African leafy vegetables can play a role in linking local farmer groups to school markets.

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Children help cultivate a vegetable garden for their own consumption in Kenya. (Photo: John Paul Sesonga, World Food Programme) conservation policy in the Busia County of Kenya recognises the importance of NUS foodplants for better nutrition and food security.

Certain areas have been set aside for conserving regional food biodiversity and for incorporation of these plants into school meals. This will also link smallholder farmers to formal markets.

As of 2018, 1,5 million children across Kenya receive a nourishing meal at school every day.

Dietary guidelines Brazil has employed a national platform of experts to collect data on the nutritional value of NUS foodplants, to document traditional recipes and develop modern NUS-based recipes.

These experts worked with the health ministry to disseminate revised dietary guidelines based on regional foods, with information on the inclusion of biodiversity for the sake of nutrition.

Culinary tourism Annual culinary festivals, where celebrity chefs and other high-profile individuals prepare food with local foodplants, is another way to spread the good news about NUS foodplants.

One such a festival is the annual Alaçatı Herb Festival on the Western

School children in Kenya form part of a school feeding system. (Photo: Amanda Lawrence Brown, World Food Programme.)

coast of Turkey. This area is famous for its wide variety of nutritious herbs and edible greens.

The festival was started in 2010 to revive cultural values and preserving them for future generations. Every year for four days in April the festival attracts thousands of visitors who enjoy delicious dishes prepared with the local plants and herbs that naturally grow in the region.

While visitors enjoy the food, they also learn about the diversity and nutrition of the plants, and how to use these plants in recipes through seminars, exhibitions, workshops, and the selling of local products.

In Sri Lanka, the Hela Bojun true Sri Lankan Taste refers to market outlets run by rural women who sell traditional food. It was initiated by the Extension and Communication Centre of the Department of Agriculture and the Wayamba University with the aim to empower women to earn money by preparing and selling traditional Sri Lankan food based on local plants.

The project proved to be a great success and women can earn a sufficient income to become financially independent.

Chefs and food activists A growing number of chefs and food activists are popularising NUS foodplants through restaurants and other food activities, initiatives, and campaigns. These include initiatives such as Chefs for Development, Culinary Breeding Network, the Slow Food Chefs’ Alliance, and Earth Markets.

Chefs for Development (Chefs4Dev) is, for example, an initiative that aims to promote links between value chain actors in the food and agriculture sectors. They highlight the value of healthier, locally sourced food and agricultural products on menus in food establishments in the Caribbean, South Pacific, and Indian Ocean cultures.

ProAgri Zambia 77

The Slow Food Earth Markets project started in 2004 and there are presently 24 Earth Markets around the world, which all adhere to international guidelines.

The objectives are to give access to local, seasonal, short-chain products which were grown and prepared with respect for the environment and the rights of workers.

The markets create marketing opportunities for small-scale producers who are usually excluded from commercial markets.

They bring together the producer and consumer to exchange knowledge, skills, education of correct nutrition, and awareness of the environment, thereby creating a sense of community.

All these ways to popularise locally sourced foodplants can be duplicated within the African context and can contribute to bringing back neglected and underutilised species of foodplants that have been forgotten but are waiting to be reintroduced to African gardens and dinner tables.

In the next issue, we shall look at established seed banks that play an enormous role in food security and biodiversity by storing and researching indigenous plants collected from across the globe.

A display of herbs at the Alaçatı Herb Festival in Turkey. (Photo: Provided) References Benlier, A. (March 2019). A nourishing expedition at the "Alaçatı Herb Festival". Itinari https://www. itinari.com/a-nourishing-expedition-at-the-alacati-herb-festivalvwml Chefs for Development. https:// chefs4dev.org/index.html Slow Food Foundation for Biodiversity. https://www.fondazioneslowfood.com/en/ Warner (2018, November 15).

Hela Bojun – empowering women through Sri Lankan food. Wale & Me Conscious & ethical lifestyle & travel https://waleandme.com/ hela-bojun/ 37

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