ProAgri Zambia 94 by ProAgri

ProAg Pro Agri ri technology for the farmer

Z a m b i a No 94

Powering progress with SARO Agro’s power solutions

Free

How to establish a successful maize crop

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FEEDING FOR PROSPERITY Novatek Animal Feeds is the largest animal feed producer in Zambia and has been in operation since 2008. With two production facilities, one located in the capital city Lusaka and the other on the Copperbelt Province, Mpongwe, Novatek is strategically located with a large retail and distribution network to serve farmers all over Zambia. Novatek strive to be the leading supplier of technologically advanced animal feed products in Zambia and is also the only feed producer with an ISO 22 000 Food Safety Management System Certification. NOVATEK AQUAFEEDS Novatek Animal Feeds Zambia produces a variety of fish feeds products that ranges from hatchery to out-grower feeds and includes crumbles and pellets for both ponds and cage systems. We supply fish feeds to most of the southern African countries and East Africa such as Kenya at Victory Farms, Rwanda, Uganda, Congo DR and Tanzania. We are also commencing delivery of our fish feeds into West Africa, especially for the Catfish to be accompanied by Tilapia. Our fish feeds are certified under DQS Quality Systems and ISO 22 000. Feel free to reach out to us and we will be glad to do business with you.

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from Africa

Cover

Adapt …

and flourish! I

recently came across an interesting and mind-blowing news article. Most cattle farmers are sure to do thorough research before choosing a suitable breed of cattle for their farms. Popular cattle breeds in Africa include the Bonsmara, Ankole, Nguni, Afrikaner and Boran, because they are able to adapt and survive in Africa. Some farmers and breeders may also be fond of the beautiful little black beast: the Dexter. These gentle and easy to handle, but hardy animals are one of the world's smallest bovine breeds. Approximately 27 years ago, 16 Dexters escaped into the Addo Elephant National Park from a farm nearby. The Dexters survived for 27 years among the wild animals and despite the lack of any human contact, remained in excellent physical condition. Is this not an amazing story? Imagine these small domesticated animals being able to survive for all those years undetected in Addo. Even more incredible is that they were able to breed and sustain the herd in that time. Shows how ferocious they must have been to protect their calves from the lions and hyenas! It just goes to show that where there is a will, there is a way, no matter how challenging it may seem! New in Zambia and what you can expect from this edition of ProAgri Zambia: Good news this month is that a good maize season is predicted despite challenges. Spurred by input subsidies

Content

3. 5. 7. 9. 11. 16. 20. 24. 29. 35. 39. 40. 43.

and sustained output of the country’s staple food in recent years, Zambia remains one of the main exporters of maize in Africa, despite some climate change effects, invasion of pests, post-harvest losses, and frustrating marketing processes. According to the agricultural ministry, in the 2022/23 farming season, Zambia’s maize output was 3,3 million tonnes, slightly lower than the 3,6 million tonnes produced in 2021/22. Aided by increased production area and productivity, Zambia has induced robust food production and doubled its maize production over the past 20 years, said the ministry, prompting neighboring countries and beyond to look to Zambia to supplement their deficits. SeedCo provides farmers with some insightful information and guidelines on how to establish a successful maize crop, read more on page 34. Looking for reliable and efficient power solutions? SARO Agro has got you covered with their wide range of generators and solar solutions. Read more on page 5. Join us in uncovering the stories that cultivate the essence of Zambia’s agricultural resilience. Until next time! ProAgri greetings Bianca Henning bianca@proagri.co.za

Planter technology from John Deere offers value season after season SARO Agro: Revolutionising agriculture and infrastructure development SARO Agro's manufacturing prowess inspires Self Help Africa delegation Growth monitoring in poultry Rift Valley fever Technews: The latest in agricultural technology from around the world Livestock identification part 3: Hot branding Food for Africa: Legumes Fruit production part 10: Grape adventures Establishing a successful crop of maize: What you need to know Bamboo promotes conservation, forestry, and agriculture Mechanisation considerations for drip irrigation systems Tapeworm is spreading, endangering people

ProAgri Zambia 94

Agri4all is the largest online agricultural classifieds platform in Africa, specialising in the promotion and marketing of agricultural products, connecting agricultural businesses to farmers and advertising agricultural-specific products and services across Africa.

ProAgri technology for the farmer

Z a m b i a

No. 10 Tito Road Rhodespark, Lusaka +26 (0)97-769-9786 www.proagri.co.za Copyright © 2023. 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

> +27 82-326-2572 bianca@proagri.co.za

Reporters Benine Ackermann > +27 73-105-6938 benine@proagri.co.za Maryna Steyn > +27 82-261-9177 maryna@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 62-391-6507 xander@proagri.co.za Johan Swartz > +27 71-599-9417 johan@proagri.co.za Tiny Smith > +27 82-698-3353 tiny@proagri.co.za Lynette van Tonder > +27 74-694-4422 lynette@proagri.co.za Evette Liebenberg >+27 71-891-4441 evette@proagri.co.za Head of Design Michelle Kruger > +27 84-416-1780 michelle@proagri.co.za Design Anja Oosthuizen Jamie-Lee Tromp Enquiries Engela Botha > +27 73-663-1234 engela@proagri.co.za Distribution and subscription Nita Volmer-van Zyl > +27 79-515-8708 nita@proagri.co.za Accounts Ronel Schluter > +27 84-088-0123 accounts@proagri.co.za Business Manager George Grobler

YOU CAN’T BE EVERYWHERE AT ONCE! JDLinkTM • Empowers remote management • Boosts machine performance • Monitors on-ﬁeld equipment

Contact your nearest dealer today *Terms and conditions apply. (Available at https://www.deere.africa/en/) https://www.deere.africa/en/ I africa@johndeere.com I Customer care: 0800 983 821 JohnDeereAME 2

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ProAgri Zambia 94

Planter technology from John Deere offers value season after season Article supplied

iscover the value in every pass and every season with John Deere's precision ag tools. John Deere has established itself as an industry leader, providing farmers with innovative tools to enhance their farming operations. From machine performance to field management and data analysis, John Deere offers a comprehensive suite of solutions that enable farmers to monitor, manage, and maximise their yields, season after season. More efficiencies: From automation to repeatability, find the precision technology you need to work faster and smarter. Lower cost: Precise seed placement. Better application accuracy, less input which means lower costs. Higher yield: From your machines to your fields precision ag fuels better performance and powers higher yields. Put more PLAN into your PLANting. Planting does not just happen, it comes with careful planning, early preparation and lots of hard work. That is why the following John Deere Precision Ag solutions will help make this easier:

JDLink™

Turn on JDLink™ to seamlessly send your data from your equipment the Operation

ProAgri Zambia 94

Centre and vice versa. Saving you less trips to the field.

Operations Centre

See what is happening in your operation right now and learn from your performance over time. Collaborate with the right people and tools to make decisions that save time, optimise yield, and maximise profits. Direct your operations by turning your plans into action, and adjusting as conditions change.

In-field data sharing

See coverage and as-applied maps for machines working in the same field at the same time. Ensure complete field coverage with multiple machines even in low light and/or dusty conditions. Reduce over-application leading to more accurate documentation data and lower input costs.

Automation 4.0

Uses data from planning or strip till and planting to automatically full field guidance lines for secondary passes. Let AutoTrac™ Turn Automation take over your turns, implement functions and speed.

AutoTrac™ Implement Guidance places your tool exactly where it needs to be, even on sidehills and around curves.

StarFire™ 7000 with SF-RTK

Offers greater accuracy, faster pull in times and season to season repeatability, this means less hardware and faster recovery from shading.

John Deere Section Control

Reduce overlap and minimise skips ensuring precise placement of crop protectants and nutrients.

SeedStar™ 4HP

Designed to optimise the in-cab monitoring experience exclusively on the Gen 4 4600 CommandCenter™ display or 4640 Universal Display for growers with ExactEmerge™ planters and MaxEmerge™ 5e planters. With John Deere Precision Ag, you can achieve greater efficiency, cost savings, and higher yields. Maximise your planting success with our comprehensive range of tools and technologies. Find the planter that is right for your farm, visit www.deere.africa/ en/planting-equipment.

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ProAgri Zambia 94

SARO Agro: Revolutionising agriculture and infrastructure development

Article supplied

n the heart of Zambia, SARO Agro stands as a pioneering force, leading the charge in providing farmers and municipal bodies with cutting-edge equipment and solutions to boost productivity and development. Specialising in a wide range of machinery, from tractors and farm equipment to power generators, solar solutions, pumps, and earth-moving equipment, SARO Agro has been a game-changer in Zambia's agricultural and infrastructure sectors.

fer the Public Service Agricultural Asset Plus Loan Scheme. This initiative caters to public service workers, including the Zambia Air Force (ZAF), Zambia National Service (ZNS), Zambia Army, and quasi-government institutions. With attractive loan tenure options of up to 84 months and an incredibly low interest rate of just 9% per annum, SARO Agro is facilitating access to topquality equipment, further boosting agricultural productivity.

Mechanisation for the masses

Powering progress with generators and solar solutions

Agriculture has long been the backbone of Zambia's economy, and smallscale farmers play a vital role in this sector. To help these farmers access the machinery they need without the burden of collateral and high interest rates, SARO Agro, in collaboration with AgLeaseCo, has embarked on a groundbreaking project sponsored by the European Union. This project facilitates easy and affordable access to essential agricultural machinery, coupled with comprehensive training to equip farmers with the knowledge needed to operate the equipment efficiently. This initiative is a giant leap forward in promoting mechanisation in the country. Moreover, SARO Agro has established a partnership with the Public Service Micro Finance Company (PSMFC) to of-

ProAgri Zambia 94

Energy is the lifeblood of modern agriculture and infrastructure development. SARO Agro recognises this need and supplies a diverse range of generators to meet various demands. Renowned brands like Kirloskar, CGM, and SAROGEN are part of their impressive lineup, catering to both industrial and domestic requirements. The company has also expanded into providing solar power backup solutions, reinforcing their commitment to sustainable energy. The recent collaboration between SARO Agro's Genset Department and the Engineering Division resulted in significant enhancements to the CGM 30 KVA and 20 KVA generators. By increasing the tank size from 100 litres to 500 litres, these generators have become ideal for telecoms and other applications, ensuring a remarkable boost in performance and reliability. Moreover, their solar installation project in Mafinga Town Council demonstrates a commitment to clean, green, and reliable power sources. This project showcases a cutting-edge solar system with high-efficiency panels and battery setups, delivering tailor-made solutions to meet clients' specific energy needs.

Pumps and irrigation solutions

Efficient irrigation is a key component of successful farming, especially in regions with irregular rainfall patterns. SARO Agro provides a wide array of irrigation equipment, including manual pumps, submersible pumps, and booster pumps. An impressive addition to their offerings is the Solar Powered Centre Pivot designed by SARO. This innovative solution is designed to cover areas of up to 2,5 hectares and ensures efficient irrigation over a 7-day cycle, making it a perfect fit for emerging and small-scale farmers looking to enhance their crop yields.

Empowering municipal development

SARO Agro is not solely focused on agriculture. They are also instrumental in the development of municipal infrastructure, particularly in the field of earth-moving equipment. By supplying motor graders, TLBs (Tractor-LoaderBackhoes), and roller compactors to various municipal councils through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), SARO Agro is contributing to the construction and maintenance of roads and other critical infrastructure. Notable beneficiaries of this initiative include Matero Constituency and Chongwe Municipal Council, among many others. The result is tangible progress and development within these communities. SARO Agro's commitment to delivering top-tier equipment, financing options, and sustainable energy solutions sets them apart as a trailblazer in Zambia's agricultural and infrastructure sectors. As the agricultural landscape evolves and infrastructure demands grow, SARO Agro is ready to lead the way, ushering in a new era of mechanised agriculture and robust development. Their dedication to innovation and excellence continues to shape the future of Zambia's rural and urban landscapes. 5

The PROfessional choice KimtraPro 20 A ready-mixed phosphate-salt-trace mineral and protein supplement for ruminants. • The phosphate source of KimtraPro 20 is Yara Animal Nutrition’s Kynofos 21, a high-quality MDCP. • Enriched with the most important trace minerals. • Contains protein to stimulate growth and production of rumen microbes for optimal digestion of grass. • Contains highly bioavailable magnesium in the form of Magnesium Phosphate. • Contains molasses by-product to promote palatability and intake. • Convenient granulated form to minimise dustiness. • Suitable for cattle, sheep, goats, and ruminant game species. • Available in 50 kg and 25 kg bags.

Trust KimtraPro 20 for optimal health, production and reproduction. www.yara.co.za/animal-nutrition/ animal.nutrition.sa@yara.com | Tel: +27 (0)31 910-5100 uppe marketing A34669

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ProAgri Zambia 94

Working together to achieve goals

SARO Agro's manufacturing prowess inspires Self Help Africa delegation

Article supplied

ARO Agro was delighted to welcome a delegation from Self Help Africa (SHA) at their main branch in Lusaka. During their visit, SARO’s Managing Director, Mr Ashok Oza, led the SHA delegation on a tour of the facility. They had the opportunity to witness the assembly of the renowned Kirloskar Hammermill (Chigayo), the fabrication of trailers, and the series of innovative attachments, such as the Tool Bar and Sprayer for the Two Wheel Tractor. The SHA delegation was impressed to discover that SARO not only distrib-

Self Help Africa is a non-profit organisation that aims to alleviate hunger, poverty, social inequality, and the impact of climate change. They work towards this goal through community-led, marketbased, and business focused approaches to agricultural development, ensuring that people have access to food, clean water, and employment. The visit showcased SARO's extensive range of equipment, covering farming machinery, food processing equipment, and irrigation solutions. Together, SARO Agro and SHA are working towards a future where hunger, poverty, and climate change's effects are significantly reduced. The visit underscored the partnership and the organisations’ mutual dedication to making a positive impact on Zambia's agriculture. Thanks to the wide range of agricultural machinery and equipment, SARO Agro will be able to assist SHA in achieving its goals. Even the smallest grower can benefit from the range of equipment.

utes farming machinery but also designs and manufactures its own equipment. Mr Oza highlighted the company’s shared vision with SHA, focusing on mechanisation to transform Zambia's agricultural sector, alleviate hunger, and promote climatefriendly solutions.

A delegation from Self Help Africa recently visited SARO Agro's impressive facilities.

Visit the SARO Agro website at www.sarozambia.com for more information about this agricultural supplier and view the wide range of products.

ProAgri Zambia 94

Growth monitoring in poultry

roiler weight is an important parameter when growing broilers. After all, the end goal of raising broilers is to get as many birds to market as possible, using the least amount of feed, and producing the greatest amount of meat. With pressures on the industry to reduce antibiotic usage, there is a greater focus on finding new ways to maximise birds’ growth, health, and well-being from the earliest stages. It has long been known that the better start a broiler bird gets, the better chance for that bird to reach its genetic potential. Broiler chickens have the genetic potential for significant weight gain over a short period. During the first 7 days, 80% of the bird’s energy is used for growth and only 20% for maintenance, indicating the importance of this period in the chicken’s life. Weighing around 40 to 42 g at hatch, broilers can achieve a weight of 2,8 kg within the next 42 days. That is an average daily growth rate of 60 g. Furthermore, according to management guidelines for the modern broiler, the birds are supposed to increase their live weight 4,25 times during the first 7 days, from approximately 40 to 180 g. Seven-day weight of the Indian river broiler is about 187 g. Good early development of the chick reaching high 7-day weights will have a significant positive impact on the bird for the rest of its life. It will improve the nutritional maturity of the bird and accelerate development of the gastrointestinal tract. Muscle growth and development of muscle morphology improves, as will long-term positive metabolic effects. As important as bird weight is in the broiler industry, it has never been a customary practice to routinely weigh broilers, due to the physical time it takes to weigh birds on a multiple barn farm. With the development of accurate automatic scales that can have multiple platforms in a single barn, collecting weights on a broiler farm has become easier, whether you raise straight run birds or sexed birds. Actively weighing your birds gives vital ProAgri Zambia 94

data to help better manage birds to reach their genetic potential. Weighing broilers can confirm how effective different management practices are. Every management technique implemented should maximise the performance of the flock. There are weighing systems available with computer software that will collect and calculate important data such as average daily weight gains, daily actual weight, coefficient of variation, uniformity, and number of birds weighed. Some programmes have built in breed weight curves to be able to easily compare gains with documented weight curves for specific breeds. These programmes can also be enabled to track total mortality easily. If the weights of the flock are not following the recommended breed guidelines, an investigation can begin to determine the cause, instead of waiting until the flock ships, learning too late that the flock has below aver-

Article supplied

age weight gain. The problems that could cause poor weight gain include disease challenges, temperature or air quality issues, inadequate feed space for all birds to eat, slow feed delivery or distribution, and feed formulation or quality problems. By catching a problem early, it is possible to get the birds back on track, maybe not completely recover, but at least work to get the birds back on their growth curve and maximize remaining growth days. The success of any poultry programme must be driven with data. Good decision-making is dependent upon the quality of data and ensuring that the numbers are accurate and complete. The level of uniformity contributes to the final result, and as with any business, increasing profits with positive results is what one is after. The broiler industry is no different. Invest in a tool to maximize performance and profits.

Tiger chicks’ average weights on Tiger Supreme feed and Classic feed; standard weights Day

Body weight (g)

Daily gain (g)

Average daily gain/ week (g)

Daily intake (g)

Cumulative intake (g)

FCR^3

207

23,51

172

0,828

515

44,02

544

1,1055

978

66,12

108

1 175

1,201

1 567

84,11

151

2 102

1,1341

2 231

94,85

188

3 312

1,484

2 915

97,67

216

4 748

1,629

Contact Sitali Brian, Tiger Animal Feeds: Technical Adviser on +260 96-794-6215 for more information.

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ProAgri Zambia 94

Rift Valley

fever

by Tisha Steyn

ift Valley fever (RVF) is an acute viral haemorrhagic fever that is most commonly seen in domesticated animals like sheep, goats, cattle, camels, and buffalo. The Rift Valley fever virus is a member of the Phlebovirus genus. It is a viral zoonosis that primarily affects animals but can also infect humans. It is transmitted by mosquitoes and blood-feeding flies. When livestock are infected, the disease can cause significant economic losses due to high mortality rates in young animals and waves of abortions in pregnant females. Rift Valley fever was first identified in 1931 in a sheep epidemic on a farm in the Rift Valley of Kenya. Although it is generally found in regions of eastern and southern Africa where sheep and cattle are raised, it exists in most countries in sub-Saharan Africa, including West Africa and Madagascar. In 2000, it was also reported for the first time in Saudi Arabia and Yemen. Flooding seems to contribute to an increase in Rift Valley fever because more virus-infected mosquitoes buzz about after heavy rainfalls. Three major epidemics occurred in South Africa during 1950-1951, 19741976, and 2010-2011. These primarily affected the Free State and Northern Cape provinces of South Africa but were widespread during the most recent two outbreaks involving the Northern, Eastern, and Western Cape provinces. Smaller sporadic animal outbreaks with concurrent human cases have been documented in the periods between these major epidemics. The last major outbreak in South Africa, in 2010-2011, was preceded by smaller isolated outbreaks in 2008 and 2009 in the northeast and northwest parts of the country. In 2018, an isolated outbreak occurred on a sheep farm in the Free State after heavy rainfall during 20172018, followed by a drought period.

Rift Valley fever in livestock

Clinical signs vary depending on the species of animal affected, age, and whether the animal is pregnant. Pregnant sheep and cattle affected by this disease will almost always abort (80100%). Young lambs of sheep and goats (kids) are considered to be the most susceptible with mortality rates of 70% to 100%. Sheep and calves are highly susceptible with mortality rates of 20% to 70%. Goats, African and domestic buffalo, Asian monkeys, and humans are regarded as moderately susceptible with mortality rates of fewer than 10%. Other species can be infected but are resistant and do not show any clinical signs. Since the symptoms of the disease are non-specific, it is difficult to recognise individual cases during epizootics. ProAgri Zambia 94

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WANTED

Enthusiastic, professional large-scale farmers!

We need farmers to grow an ancient grain, teff (which can diversify your crop rotation), on a contract basis for an EU based company for export to Europe. What is required:

What it will bring:

Fertile flat soil with irrigation, making it possible to harvest twice per season Minimum hectarage - 50 hectare Planting first crop: second week of February. Planting second crop: end of June. Harvesting June and early October The farmer should level the fields thoroughly, equipment able to press the soil after/while seeding (Cambridge roller) and own a combine harvester for fine seeds (similar to poppy seeds)

The income per hectare (double cropping under irrigation): Brut income some $2,400 to $3,520 Direct costs = $ 600 (low investment crop) Net income some $1,800 to $2,920 (per field per year) Green fertilizer improving the soil structure and yield of next crops Also possible to get more than 5 ton of hay per hectare.

Cape Fresh Peonies 12

Dry land cropping can be discussed but not preferred.

Rob Holtrop - (+27) 73 134 4487

holtroprob@gmail.com

ProAgri Zambia 94

However, the occurrence of numerous abortions and mortalities among young animals, as well as an occurrence in humans, are characteristic. The disease in susceptible animals can vary in severity and is characterised by fever, listlessness, severe weight loss, reluctance to move, abortions, and high morbidity and mortality rates in neonatal animals. In livestock, it causes severe illness and nearly 100% of abortions of livestock pregnancies. Young animals that become infected will mostly die, while the mortality rate among adult animals is significantly lower. These losses lead to loss of trade and income. In animals, the incubation period is between two and six days, and is characterised by fever and weakness. Definitive diagnosis requires laboratory testing of blood and tissue samples. The virus is most commonly spread by the Aedes and Culex mosquitoes but varies by region. Environmental conditions, particularly heavy rainfall and flooding, are most often linked to the spread of the disease as it allows more mosquito eggs to hatch. As a listed animal disease with the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) an outbreak must be reported to the WOAH. Because of its long inter-epizootic intervals, it is also regarded as a re-emerging disease. Different types of vaccines are available for use in animals. Consult your veterinarian or veterinary extension officer. It is better to inoculate in time rather than suffer the losses. The transmission cycle may look like this: • The virus can spread from female mosquitoes to their offspring through the eggs; • In the eggs, the virus remains viable or infectious for several years during dry conditions; • Excessive rainfall allows more mosquito eggs to hatch; • As mosquito populations increase, the potential for the virus to spread to animals and people increases; • RVFV outbreaks in animals, most commonly livestock, lead to increased handling of infected animals, which then increases the risk of exposure to the virus for people.

(Source: https://www.cdc.gov/vhf/rvf/outbreaks/distribution-map.html)

Rift Valley fever in humans

In humans, the disease ranges from a mild flu-like illness to severe haemorrhagic fever that can be lethal. People usually get Rift Valley fever through contact with blood, body fluids, or tissues of infected livestock during slaughter or butchering, but also through caring for sick animals or eating raw or uncooked animal products. The virus can also be transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes and ProAgri Zambia 94

Pregnant livestock usually abort when they are infected with Rift Valley fever. (Source: Pixabay) 13

biting flies, but this happens rarely, and it has not been documented that it is spread from person to person. Herders, farmers, slaughterhouse workers and veterinarians are at higher risk of infection. Humans can also be infected by ingesting the uncooked or unpasteurised milk of infected animals. Most people with RVF either have no symptoms or a mild condition including fever, weakness, back pain, and dizziness. Only 10% may develop serious symptoms including haemorrhage and encephalitis, or eye disease. No vaccines are currently available for vaccination in people. Prevent infection in areas prone to the virus: • Avoid contact with blood, body fluids, or tissues of infected animals; • Wear appropriate protective clothing, gloves, boots and a face shield when working with animals that may be infected; • All animal products, including meat, milk, and blood, must be thoroughly cooked before consuming it; • Protect yourself against mosquitoes and other bloodsucking insects by using insect repellents

Young livestock are especially susceptible to Rift Valley fever. (Source: Pixabay) and bed nets and wear longsleeved shirts and long pants to cover exposed skin.

Treatment for people

Since most cases of RVF are mild and self-limiting, there is no specific treatment for RVF in humans. Symptoms of mild illness such as fever and body aches can be managed with standard over-the-counter medications. Most often, people will get better within two to seven days after the onset of the symptoms. Treatment for more serious cases may require hospitalisation for supportive care. A vaccine has been developed but it is not yet licensed or available. Rapid case detection, including prompt laboratory testing of people with symptoms, has limited recent outbreaks. The disease is, however, listed along with eight others as having the potential to cause epidemics when jumping from animals to humans. Other include the Nipah virus, Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever, Lassa fever, Zika, Ebola and Marburg virus disease, MERS (Middle East respiratory syndrome), and SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome).

Distribution

Sheep and goats, as well as cattle, camels and African buffalo, can be infected with the Rift Valley fever virus. (Source: Pixabay) 14

Countries reporting endemic disease and substantial outbreaks of Rift Valley fever include Egypt, the Gambia, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritania, Mozambique, Namibia, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, South Africa, South Sudan, ProAgri Zambia 94

Sudan, Tanzania, Yemen, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Countries reporting few cases, periodic isolation of the virus, or serologic evidence of RVF infection include Angola, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Gabon, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Republic of Congo, Somalia, and Uganda.

The Rift Valley fever virus is most commonly spread by the Aedes and Culex mosquitoes but varies by region. (Source: Pixabay)

Source references Eldred, S. M. (2023) Nine diseases that keep epidemiologists up at night. NPR. https://www.npr.org/ sections/goatsandso da/2023/01/29/1151039454/9diseases-virus-epidemiologists-pandemic-potential-who Jansen van Vuren P, Kgaladi J, Patharoo V, Ohaebosim P, Msimang V, Nyokong B, Paweska JT. Human (2018) Cases of Rift Valley Fever in South Africa, 2018. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis. 2018 Dec;18(12):713715. doi: 10.1089/vbz.2018.2357. Epub 2018 Sep 5. PMID: 30183525; PMCID: PMC6276270. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/ articles/PMC6276270/ Rift Valley Fever (RVF) (2023) Centres for Disease Control and Prevention https://www.cdc.gov/vhf/rvf/index. html Rift Valley Fever (2023) Centres for Disease Control and Prevention https://www.cdc.gov/vhf/rvf/treatment/index.html Rift Valley Fever (n.d.) EcoHealth Alliance https://www.ecohealthalliance.org/ program/rift-valley-fever Rift Valley Fever (n.d.) World Organization for Animal Health https://www.woah.org/en/disease/ rift-valley-fever/

Herders, farmers, slaughterhouse workers and veterinarians are at higher risk of infection, but humans can also be infected by ingesting the uncooked or unpasteurised milk of infected animals. (Source: Pixabay) ProAgri Zambia 94

Rift Valley Fever (n.d.) World Health Organisation https://www.who.int/health-topics/ rift-valley-fever#tab=tab_1

Technews

The latest in agricultural technology from around the world Case IH Advanced Feed-rate predicts crop density

Faresin goes fully electric with a new mixer wagon

CASE IH can now predict how much material will enter the harvester before it has even been cut.

he Advanced Feed-rate Control system developed for Case IH AxialFlow combines has been awarded a Silver Medal in the Innovation Awards, presented by the organisers of the Agritechnica exhibition. It predicts crop density before the material enters the machine. In contrast to solutions that alter machine parameters once the crop has entered the combine, Case IH Advanced Feed-rate Control uses forward-looking radar sensors to scan and assess density of the crop before it enters the machine, rather than during the threshing process. The four header-mounted radar units measure the complete plant mass from the ground up for a highly accurate crop density assessment, The information generated is used to automatically adjust key settings, such as forward speed for the crop volume the machine is about to ingest. As a result, combine forward speed and engine load are maintained as closely as possible to the desired level, maximising output without the risk of blockage. In addition, experienced operators can get the maximum from their machine, while those less experienced can be more confident they can push the combine without fear of it blocking. 16

Boost work rates Because operators can work at faster ground speeds than might otherwise be possible, the development of proactive Advanced Feed-rate Control has the potential to boost work rates by up to 20% when compared with a combine fitted with the established reactive automated feed-rate intake. Greater consistency of throughput speeds minimises losses and improves grain quality, while reduced blockage risk improves safety and minimises inconvenience and downtime. The system is fitted the VariCut header paired with the Axial-Flow 7160 combine. In addition to Advanced Feed-rate Control, the new models incorporate full AFS Harvest Command connectivity. “The Agritechnica awards panel’s recognition of the benefits offered by this development is really gratifying,” says Peter Friis, Head of Combine Business for Case IH in Europe. “The proactive Advanced Feed-rate Control provides the ability to get the most from the combine’s potential regardless of operator experience, enabling users to maximise output in short weather windows without risk of overloading.” (Source: worldagritech.com)

The Leader PF Full Electric self-propelled mixer wagon was introduced to the world at the beginning of November. It completes Faresin’s electrified range, launched in 2018 with its electric telehandler. The new Leader PF Full Electric has been designed to make use of the electricity that farms produce through photovoltaic or cogeneration plants at low cost. At the same time, the machine produces no pollutant emissions, thus reducing the environmental impact of the farm. The use of electrical technology also promotes animal welfare and enables certification of the production chain. “Thanks to the virtuous transversatility that distinguishes our research and development process, we were able to implement our Full Electric technology, completely Made in Faresin, in the Mixer Wagons line as well,” says President Sante Faresin. The result is a machine that offers a work experience that is fully equivalent to what one would have with an endothermic engine, but without emitting greenhouse gases.” Similar performance The Leader PF 1.14 Full Electric has 14 cubic meters of mixing tub capacity and a vertical auger. Faresin engineers have worked hard to ensure performance quite similar to their respective heat-powered models, while maintaining enough range to complete at least a full day on an averagesized farm. For this reason, the 91 kW, 210 Ah Lithium Iron-Phosphate battery integrated with Farmatics telematics for remote control was installed in the rear engine compartment. Its location at the rear allows for optimal weight distribution, greater operational convenience such as reduced dirt in the compartment and easy access to components, and other advantages while driving, such as comfort and visibility. ProAgri Zambia 94

Battery charging is done with complete flexibility thanks to the Universal Charge system, a single plug-in interface for 220 V single-phase and 400 V three-phase supplies. The machine also has a system that recovers energy during braking and accelerator release by storing it in the battery and increasing its range. The entire system is monitored by diagnostics involving all electrical, electronic, and hydraulic parts, including the in-cab control instrumentation. Tractive force comes from a 51-kW electric motor located in the rear axle, which also transmits motion to the front axle. The system has two gears that allow travel up to a maximum speed of 20 km/h. The Leader PF Full Electric has four-wheel drive and steering that allows three types of steering (concentric, crab-steering, and front-only). It is also equipped with a hydro-pneumatic suspension that can be adjusted in height from the cab, allowing a comfortable and safe ride. Homogeneous mixtures The geometry of the mixing tub, combined with the special profile of the auger, quickly prepares homogeneous mixtures. There are eight mixing speeds, which allow the machine’s performance to be adapted to the recipe. In addition, a special “Cleaning” function allows the auger to completely discharge the content of the mixing tub, preventing excessive stagnation of product dangerous to animal health. To meet the needs of each farmer, the unloading system can be configured with various types of mats with displacement or lifting operated directly through the cabin display. Accuracy is important to achieve good results and keep feed costs under control. Through the electronic weighing and dosing system located in the booth, or by using the Farm Manager Web business management programme, it is possible to programme the recipe and constantly monitor the loaded ingredients. The main functions are operated by the electro-proportional joystick and side keypads, while the automotiveinspired push-button panel allows precise and timely control of all loading and unloading parts. (Source: World-Agritech.com)

New Holland's T7 Methane Power LNG tractor on TIME's Best Invention List 2023

Among a wide range of innovations across several categories, TIME Magazine has chosen New Holland's T7 ProAgri Zambia 94

Faresin has introduced its first fully electrical self-propelled mixer to the market. Methane Power LNG tractor to be featured in their Best Invention List 2023 TIME has been expanding their categories in response to the rapidlychanging progress in fields such as artificial intelligence, sustainability and more, paying special attention to growing fields such as the electric vehicle industry, green energy, and the metaverse. This year’s special mentions list featured 50 inventions recognised for their unique impact. New Holland’s T7 Methane Power LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) tractor is an industry first and the latest development in the brand’s Methane Power tractor offering. With its LNG power solution, this tractor more than doubles the autonomy capability of the current methane powered range: using liquefied methane delivers four times as much fuel storage capacity when compared to compressed gas (CNG). The LNG tractor can be fuelled by fu-

gitive methane, strategically captured from livestock waste slurry lagoons. The methane is converted into fuelgrade liquefied natural gas (LNG) using patented cryogenic processes solving the low boiling point challenge historically seen with this fuel source. So far, the LNG tractor has worked across multiple continents with prototypes being developed and tested to continue to deliver the best experience for farmers around the world. "This Mention reflects the long commitment New Holland has in sustainability and our role of leadership in the agricultural sector. This award is a milestone for the company, so congratulations to everyone who worked so hard to achieve such incredible results,” said New Holland Brand President Carlo Lambro. https://www. africanfarming.net/technology/machinery-equipment

The New Holland T7 Methane Power LNG tractor made it onto TIME’s list of innovations that can change the world.

SolAgra collaborates with UDel for Agrivoltaics research SolAgra has recently contracted with the University of Delaware (UDel) for two agrivoltaic solar plants that will be built at UDel’s Newark and Georgetown campuses. These solar arrays are planned to be built and launched for the 2024 growing season, with facilities giving access to students and faculty of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and offering them an opportunity to

study the benefits of co-locating solar tracking systems with crop production. The test crops will mostly comprise of high-value fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, and strawberries that are currently bearing the brunt of climate change. Students in the College of Engineering and Institute of Energy Conversion will gather data on solar electricity generation. Any mutual benefits demonstrated will

highlight the potential of using agricultural land for large-scale dual-use PV installations. SolAgra, which calls its patented technology SolAgra Farming, uses patented elevated solar arrays to produce green energy on farmland while simultaneously sustaining or improving the quality of crops being grown beneath the solar arrays. This unique agrivoltaics technology provides DynamicShiftingTM and CounterTrackingTM of elevated solar arrays to support the dual use of farmland. This means that the panels can be tilted to allow more

The hinged structure itself can also be shifted to control light penetration. An advantage of having plants and even irrigation underneath the solar system is that the panels do not overheat and are therefore more productive.

ProAgri Zambia 94

SolAgra’s solar panels are placed on a high structure to allow tractor and implement movement in fields. The panels can be tilted to follow the sun or manually positioned to protect plants against hail or too much heat.

of less sunlight through to the plants. Moreover, the company’s Solar Platform with its hinged design also controls the mobility of the structure to help regulate the location of sunlight and shade landing on the field. This allows farmers to control the amount of shade the crops receive while maintaining solar power production. In addition to enjoying the shielding from excess sunlight, rain and hail, the

farmers are also entitled to receive a portion of the power sales revenue from SolAgra in lieu of land-lease payments. "UDel is really excited to be partnering with SolAgra to be the first demonstration site for this new type of agrivoltaic system,” said co-PI, Steven Hegedus, an electrical and computer engineering professor, and senior scientist at UDel's Institute of Energy Conversion. “Two of the greatest chal-

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An animal that has been branded with a hot iron. The letters are a rich, golden brown colour after branding. (Source: petersonsl7bar. com) the use of liquid nitrogen and specialised equipment, which adds both cost and time to the process. In the next part of the series, we shall dive deeper into the topic of freeze branding.

What does hot branding entail? (Source: 5280.com)

Hot branding involves using a branding iron heated to a very high temperature to brand an animal's skin. This

Livestock identification part 3: Hot branding by Natasha Pansegrouw

he livestock industry commonly uses hot branding or freeze branding to identify and mark cattle. Despite their similarity in that both methods leave a permanent mark on the animal's hide, there are important differences between the two. Hot branding, also known as fire branding, is the practise of permanently marking an animal's skin with a heated iron. Freeze branding, on the other hand, accomplishes the same goal by subjecting the hide to subzero temperatures. Both approaches have their benefits and drawbacks, with the choice ultimately being determined by factors like the farmer’s budget and available equipment, the animal's species, age, size, and the reason for branding. Animals experience more pain during hot branding because the heat causes burns and other discomfort. Freeze branding, alternatively, is less stressful for the animal because it numbs the area being branded. However, unlike hot branding, freeze branding requires 20

Brand the animal's skin for 3 to 5 seconds with a hot branding iron. (Source: howlingduckranch.wordpress.com)

ProAgri Zambia 94

results in permanent damage to the hair follicles and leaves an identifiable scar. Hot branding is a centuries-old practise that represents ownership and individuality. However, a farmer should think about how the animal will behave during the procedure to any unnecessary suffering or pain. Like any other branding procedure, this method requires careful attention to the animal's comfort and pain management. Before the hot branding process, the area can be numbed with local anaesthesia by a veterinarian. In addition, it is crucial to take aftercare measures like applying soothing ointments and checking on the progress of the healing process.

What a farmer needs for hot branding

Make sure you check the laws of your country first before branding your livestock. Before you start branding, make sure you have taken care of the

Branding an animal in a variety of areas over its body. (Source: smithsonianmag.com) necessary paperwork to register your identification numbers and branding characters.

Every branding iron needs to be crafted from sturdy steel that will not melt under the intense heat. The rod

Branding irons and a branding box heated by gas. (Source: tscra.org)

A scab forms on the burned region and comes off a few weeks after an animal has been branded. Even if hair grows out through the branded area, the mark will be clearly visible. (Source: mdpi.com) ProAgri Zambia 94

(Image dedicated to the beautiful Reeba Brahman stud)

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Overheating the branding iron or holding it to the skin for too long will burn the skin surrounding the intended character, making it difficult to read. (Source: kzndard.gov.za)

By rocking the handle, you can adjust the burn time so that the entire surface is evenly heated, usually between three and five seconds. The iron will bring out a golden brown colour in the hide. The skin of the animal can be cooled by spraying it with cold water. Oil for wounds can be sprayed onto the burn mark. Do not try to remove the stain by wiping it or rubbing dung into it.

Recovery and the avoidance of complications depend on close observation at regular intervals. Infection can occur at the branding site, so it is important to monitor it for redness, swelling, and discharge. The skin of the animal must be kept clean and dry to avoid further irritation and infection. It is essential to seek the advice of a veterinarian if complications arise during the healing process. Overall, the animal's well-being and recovery can be ensured with the right care and monitoring after branding.

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The temperature of the branding iron determines how long it must be held against the skin of an animal. A temporary hair brand is all that will remain if the branding iron is not hot enough or is not held against the animal long enough. (Source: kzndard.gov.za) should be about 1,3 centimetres in diameter and the handle should be 1,3 metres long from the iron's head to the handle loop. When not in use, branding irons should be stored in a dry place. Maintain the smoothness and cleanliness of the iron head by using a wire brush or file. Branding iron faces should be 1,3 centimetres thick and 5 centimetres deep. Slim down the branded surface's front to a thickness of one centimetre. A scorching face that is too narrow will not affect enough hair follicles to be seen after hairing over. The corners and edges of the logotype should also be rounded. If you round your face, it will appear narrower, but the centre of your face will still be slightly higher and concave after you burn it. Step-by-step method for hot branding: • Use proper restraints to keep the animal and the person performing ProAgri Zambia 94

•

• •

•

the branding as safe as possible. The animal can be contained with a head clamp or crushpen. Long-haired cattle should have their hair clipped before being branded so that the process goes more quickly. Drawing a line with your finger on the animal's fur will help you align the characters. A fire or gas-powered branding iron heater are used to preheat the branding iron. After being heated to the usual branding iron temperature of 500 ºC, the iron should be an ash grey colour rather than a bright red. Once the branding iron has reached the appropriate temperature, it is used to brand the animal directly on the skin in the location mandated by local law. Branding requires a firm press and a slight jiggle of the handle to evenly distribute the character.

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References Mann, J. and Pienaar, A. (2010) Hot iron branding for beef cattle, Animal Science. Available at: https://www. kzndard.gov.za/images/Documents/ researchandtechnologydevelopment/publications/Research_and_ Technology_Bulletins/Hot-ironbranding-for-beef-cattle.pdf Livestock Identification Services Ltd. (no date) Applying brands. Available at: https://lis-ab.com/ brands/applying-brands/

by Tisha Steyn

Food for

Africa:

Legumes B

eans, including common beans that are eaten fresh, and the seeds of other legumes that can be dried and stored for later use, are grown and consumed throughout Africa. These African legumes are suitable for planting under difficult environmental conditions, such as drought and high temperatures. Beans are a good source of protein and micronutrients, which is important to provide healthy food on the continent where poor nutrition has led to diet-related diseases like diabetes, heart conditions and obesity, as well as deficiencies in the diets of pregnant mothers and stunted growth in children. Common beans, cowpeas, groundnuts, and soya beans are easy to grow and provide a high yield. In addition, they put nitrogen back into the soil to increase the soil’s fertility without the use of expensive chemical fertilisers. A small quantity of legumes can be used with or in the place of nsima or sadza, which is made from maize or cassava, and it can even replace expensive meat to a large extent.

Nutritional value of beans

Beans and legumes are the fruits or seeds of a family of plants called Fabaceae. Commonly eaten worldwide, beans and legumes are rich sources of fibre, essential vitamins and minerals, and plant-based protein. They are good sources of fibre and vegetable protein. Cooking beans Dry beans need to be soaked prior to cooking. This not only softens the beans so that less cooking time is required, but it also releases antinu24

trients that may stop nutrients from being absorbed by the body. You can incorporate beans into soups and stews with or without meat to add protein to your diet. Health benefits Beans and legumes have several health benefits. Eating more of them may help reduce cholesterol, help prevent heart disease, decrease blood sugar levels, and increase healthy gut bacteria.

Beans and legumes grown in Africa

Four beans, among many others, which are widely grown in Southern Africa, include common bean, cowpeas, groundnuts, and soya beans. Common bean (Malawi: nyemba; Zimbabwe: shuga, bhinzi) Common beans include bush and vine varieties that are grown in a wide range of environments. Bush beans do not have to be staked. Beans do not do well under hot, humid conditions, but need moderate rainfall during the growing period, followed by a dry period for ripening. Beans do not tolerate extremely acid soils. They are attacked by a wide range of pests and diseases, but when they are regularly grown in intercrops with maize or other cereals, it may help to reduce these attacks. Although climbing bean varieties can have higher yields than bush beans, they are only practical in environments with a longer rainy season. They produce a lower yield but over a longer period. They require staking, which is expensive, so an alternative is to intercrop climbing beans with maize.

When grown as a sole crop, 70 to 80 kg of seed/ha is needed for some varieties. Cowpeas (Malawi: khobwe; Zimbabwe: nyemba) Cowpeas originated in Africa and is quite tolerant to heat, drought and acid soils but not to waterlogging. Cowpeas are attacked by many insects, and aphids (nyinda/nhata) are especially dangerous as they can infect cowpeas with viruses that will seriously reduce crop growth and yields. When grown as a monocrop, 25 to 35 kg cowpea seed/ha is used. Cowpea leaves are often used in relish, and the crop residues make a good feed for livestock. There are many species of rhizobium in African soils which will form nodules with cowpea, and the nodules formed can be round or odd shaped. Soya beans (Malawi: soya, nyemba, khobwe, mtedza; Zimbabwe: soya bhinzi, shuga bhinzi, nyemba, nzungu). Soya beans, which have hairy leaves and pods, tolerate moderately acid soils and short-term droughts. It can be grown from lowland to upland tropics. As it performs poorly under cool and shaded conditions, it is not suitable as an intercrop under densely planted tall, leafy crops. Soya beans are attacked by a brown fungal disease or rust that can seriously reduce yields, so it is recommended to grow soya beans in rotation with other crops. When grown as a monocrop, from 50 to 80 kg of seed/ha are used, depending on seed size and planting distance. Leftover plant material from the soya ProAgri Zambia 94

Groundnuts are not nuts, but a legume that can be eaten raw, toasted as a snack, or in a cooked dish.

Cowpeas are widely cultivated in Africa.

Common or green beans are easy to grow in difficult circumstances. bean crop can be used for livestock feed. Groundnuts (Malawi: mtedza, Zimbabwe: nzungu) Groundnut pods are formed underground. For best growth and production, it needs moderate (about 600 mm) rainfall during growth, followed by a dry period for ripening. Groundnuts do best on a sandy loam soil and can tolerate acidic soils, but may need calcium for good pod development. The crop is susceptible to a viral disease called rosette, which is spread to groundnut plants by aphids. About 50 kg of seed/ha are needed for monocrop groundnuts.

Growing legumes

Legumes add nitrogen to the soil that is necessary for healthy plant development and higher yields. ProAgri Zambia 94

Legumes can be grown in a number of different ways. In intercropping, the legumes are grown with other crops. The timing of the legume sowing has to be planned carefully if the crop is to complete growth before the dry season begins. It is common to grow one row of beans or cowpeas in alternation with one row 25

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of maize. With this arrangement the legume yield tends to be lower as the plants are shaded by the maize. The advantage is that the same labour can be used to harvest the maize and legumes. For short-season legume crops, such as cowpeas, the legume is sown into the maize field a few weeks before maize harvest. Since the maize is drying down, it doesn’t shade the cowpeas so much. Alternatively, the legume can be sown into a field of newly planted cassava cuttings.

Beans can be added to soups and stews to add protein to the diet.

Because crops remove nitrogen from the soil in order to grow, additional nitrogen must be added to the soil in one form or another every growing season. Plants get nitrogen from several sources: from broken-down remains of previous crops grown on the soil, from animal manure, which in combination with the crop remains forms compost, from artificial fertilisers and from legume crops. By leaving the plant rests of legumes in the soil, nature will fix the nitrogen in the soil all by itself.

Fixing nitrogen

If sustainable development goals set by the United Nations (UN) must be achieved to end hunger by 2030 in Sub-Saharan Africa, where one third of all households are threatened by foodinsecurity, cereal crop yields must increase substantially. Yields are severely limited in the region by the depletion of soil nutrients after decades of continuous cropping with insufficient fertilisation. This is the result of the inadequate use of mineral fertilisers and the lack of biomass for organic fertilisation. That means more nitrogen is needed to increase crop yield. Besides being increasingly expensive, mineral fertilisers can harm the environment if used incorrectly. The good news is that nitrogen is abundant in the atmosphere and legumes have the ability to fix this atmospheric nitrogen in their plant tissues via symbiotic bacteria. By growing legumes before cereals and, instead of removing the plant remains from the soil, digging it into the soil before sowing could provide substantial nitrogen inputs. This will optimise the use of mineral fertilisers needed to improve cereal crop yields, thereby cutting costs.

Signs of nitrogen deficiency

All crops need nitrogen, water, sunlight, and other elements to grow and produce harvests. When the lower leaves of your plants turn yellow, it is a sign that a plant isn’t getting enough nitrogen. If the nitrogen in the soil is not fixed, the plants will not grow tall, and the yield will be low.

Bags of legumes at a local market in Africa, where this staple can increase food security and health by providing protein and other nutrients that are often lacking in a carbohydrate-rich diet.

References Duodu, K.G., Apea-Bah, F.B. (2017) African Legumes: Nutritional and Health-Promoting Attributes. Woodhead Publishing Series in Food Science, Technology and Nutrition 2017, Pages 223-269 https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-08-100866-9.00009-1Get rights and content https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780081008669000091 Paliwal, R., Abberton, M. Faloye, B., Olaniyi, O. (2020) Developing the role of legumes in West Africa under climate change. Current Opinion in Plant Biology Volume 56, August 2020, Pages 242-258 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pbi.2020.05.002 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1369526620300546 Snapp, S.S., Cox, C.M., Peter, B.G. (2019). Multipurpose legumes for smallholders in sub-Saharan Africa: Identification of promising ‘scale out’ options. ScienceDirect https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gfs.2019.03.002 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2211912418300798 Ranaivoson, L., Ripoche, A., Affholder, F., Falconnier, G., Leroux, L. (2023) Food security in Africa: growing legumes to reduce the need for mineral fertilisers? https://www.cirad.fr/en/cirad-news/news/2023/betting-on-legumes-for-food-securityin-africa Lalaina Ranaivoson

Beans and legumes have several health benefits, such as reducing cholesterol, decreasing blood sugar levels and, because it contains fibre, it can increase gut health. ProAgri Zambia 94

Tarirai Muoni, Andrew P Barnes, Ingrid Öborn, Christine A Watson, Göran Bergkvist, Maurice Shiluli & Alan J Duncan (2019). Farmer perceptions of legumes and their functions in smallholder farming systems in east Africa. International Journal of Agricultural Sustainability, 17:3, 205-218. Tandfonline.co DOI: 10.1080/14735903.2019.1609166 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14735903.2019.1609166

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Protected by thick foliage, the grapes hang down, ready to finish their final stages of fruit set before harvest. (Source: Pixabay)

Fruit production part 10:

Grape adventures

by Maryna Steyn

rape farming in Zambia is not a new thing. In fact, it has been more than a decade since growers have started to produce grapes for the table grape industry. Some farmers have even ventured into wine making or exporting grapes for juice making. A favourite for many, this fruit’s juicy flesh quenches thirst and fills the tummy. Whether it is a snack, an ingredient in salad and deserts, or a refreshing drink, grapes and grape juice are enjoyed by many across the world. It offers many antioxidant properties and boosts immunity as well as keeping you hydrated. Grapes contains copper, vitamin B, C and K, as well as potassium, sodium, zinc, calcium, iron, and phosphorus. The plump fruit belongs to the category of berries that grow on a deciduous woody vine from the Vitaceaefamily. A wide variety of types are available: more than just having the green, red, or black colours, there are also an array of varieties that impact the taste, size, and shape of the fruits. What is more important in these varieties are to know which grapes to use for table grape production, raisins, juice, or wine. Some are also hardier than others, withstanding high temperatures more than others. Some of the varieties to consider when planting table grapes are: Thompson Seedless: A popular green grape variety known for its sweet and ProAgri Zambia 94

seedless berries. It is widely used as a table grape and for making raisins. Red Globe: One of the most popular red table grape varieties, known for its large size, crisp texture, and sweet taste. Crimson Seedless: Red, seedless grapes with a sweet flavour. They are popular for fresh consumption and are resistant to cracking. Flame Seedless: Red seedless grapes with a sweet and slightly tart flavour. They have excellent shelf life and are popular in the fresh market. If you aim to start grape production for wine or raisin making, you will need to consider other varieties. Investigating local varieties to plant is also an option. Soil and climatic requirements To grow grapes, you need a climate

that has moderate heat. Temperatures needs to range between 25 to 32 ° Celsius if the plants are going to thrive. They are, however, sensitive to frost. It is quite economical with water, and it is most successful when the annual rainfall varies from 635 to 890 mm. The plant grows best at elevations ranging from 200 to 250 meters. Grapes need plenty of sunlight, at least 7 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Winters need to be long and cold enough to ensure dormancy in the resting season. The optimal soil condition has a soil acidity ranging from 6 to 6,5 pH. Grapes can be cultivated in a variety of soils including sandy loams, sandy clay loams, red sandy soils, shallow to medium black soils and red loams. 29

The soil must just be well-balanced between having good drainage and having good water holding capacity to keep the plants hydrated. It is also important that the soil is without any hard pan layers.

The soil needs to have good drainage and be loose enough to ensure good root development. (Source: Juan Pablo Serrano Arenas on Pexels)

Soil preparation When preparing the soil, two things need to be considered: soil health and structure. You may loosen the soil with a pickaxe or with the use of a larger implement like a ripper. This ensures that the roots can spread wide and deep. Grapes can tolerate less fertile soils and a variety of pH levels, but you may adjust these according to the results of a soil test. Incorporating well-fermented compost or manure can enhance soil fertility and structure. Planting It takes at least a year for a vineyard to be established. One-year old seedlings will take an additional three years before it delivers a yield. You can plant the grape seedlings three to four weeks before spring starts. Plant seedlings with precision, ensuring proper spacing, adequate depth, and firm soil contact around the roots. It is important to note that since grapes grow vines, you will need a trellis system to hold up the vines. Planting wooden poles to keep the trellis up means that you need to plan the row spacing before transferring the seedlings to the soil. Plant the seedlings 0,24 to 0,28 metres apart in rows. Rows can be 0,3 metres apart. Ensure that you plant them at the same depth as the nursery pots. Prune the tops to encourage growth. Fertiliser For grapes, the soil does not need to be too fertile. In fact, if it is too fertile,

the plant places uses more energy to grow foliage than fruits. This is obviously not ideal. But the opposite can also be detrimental as it will cost you a fortune in ensuring your crop gets the nutrients it needs. That is why frequent

To protect your crop from birds, you may want to consider agricultural netting. (source: Mathias Reding on Pexels) 30

ProAgri Zambia 94

water that is high in sodium may reduce the water permeability of soil. This, in turn, reduces the yield. Grapes’ watering needs change across the season according to the day length and growth stage. The younger plants need at least 20 litres of water per vine per week, dividing it into two to three applications. Mature vines require 100 to 300 litres of water per vine per week, divided into one to three applications. Soil moisture needs to be maintained in the critical growth stages of budburst, flowering period, fruit setting and berry ripening as water stress can severely affect the yield. Thankfully, farmers do not need to guess what the soil moisture is, they can use tensiometers to monitor soil moisture effectively. There must be very little rain during the ripening period; too much rain can cause various grape diseases and the plump grapes may burst. Most farmers find that it is best to use drip irrigation to manage water needs. Drip irrigation systems also has the added benefits of conserving water, minimising evaporation, and

delivering precise amounts of moisture to the grapevines' root zones. Pest and disease management Most commonly, grapes are threatened by grape berry moth, whose larvae feed on grapes, and by birds. Keep an eye out for aphids, grape leafhoppers, and spider mites. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for organic pest control. You may also find out more about the insecticide that is best for your specific

(about once every three years) soil testing is vital. Ask your agronomist about soil tests and how to use their results. Based on the soil test results, apply a balanced fertiliser (such as 10-1010 N:P:K) during the growing season. Grapes need these macronutrients as well as micronutrients, such as copper, iron, and zinc. If the vine growth is less than one metre in a year, additional nitrogen must be applied. A nitrogen deficiency will also show poor colour of the leaves (light green or yellowish). On the other hand, high nitrogen fertilisation promotes heavy vine production at the expense of fruit production. Applying phosphate is beneficial. Ideally, fertiliser is applied two to four times a year, but you may also ask you agronomist for more information about this. Irrigation It is vital to have an irrigation system to supplement rainfall if consistent success in grape production is to be achieved. However, there are a few concerns with regards to minerals in water sources. Chlorides or boron in irrigation water may accumulate in grape leaves, and ProAgri Zambia 94

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ProAgri Zambia 94

spots on the upper surface of the mature leaves corresponding with white spots on the lower side. The affected leaves turn brown and cannot support bunch development owing to reduced photosynthetic activity. To control the disease, start by pruning the affected sections. Destroy the removed parts immediately.

Powdery mildew All parts of the grape plant, namely leaves, blossoms, or fruit, can be affected by this disease. It leaves blemishes on the affected berries and results in deformation.

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Downy mildew This disease is caused by light and continuous rain or heavy dew associated with high humidity. Low temperature also favours the development of the disease. The leaves, flowers, and fruits are attacked by the disease. Signs that your vines are infected are light-yellow

Black rot Black rot most often occurs in areas with a warm and moist climate that has extended periods of rain and cloudy weather. The disease attacks the leaves, stems, flowers, and berries. The new growth is attacked during the growing season. The main symptoms are usually reddish-brown spots on the leaves and a black scab on the berries. The best control method is to collect and destroy any mummified berries left on the vines.

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Sources Yara Zambia (2018) Crop nutrition: Table grape. AvailTY RAT able at: https://www.yara.co.zm/crop-nutrition/tablegrape/. OL • E W

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Symptoms of the disease are a powdery (ash-like) white substance on the leaves. To control this, apply a fungicide at bud break in vineyards where symptoms appeared the year before and follow the label instructions carefully.

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problem. To keep birds away, you may consider using netting. Among the most common diseases are downy mildew, powdery mildew, and black rot.

Bacterial leaf spot The disease is more prevalent from February to March and in June and August when the temperature is 25 to 30 °C and humidity is 80% to 90%. Symptoms of infection first appear on young growing shoots, but it also affects leaves and berries. The leaves show minute water-soaked spots on the lower surface of the leaves along the main and lateral veins. The spots coalesce later to form larger patches and brown-black lesions on the berries, which become small and shrivelled. To control this disease, the easiest way is to collect and burn the infected plant parts as this will help minimise the spread of the disease.

Lima Farms Limited (2023) Grape growing and wine making in Zambia ,yht.laAvailable eh era skcat: ihc hhttps://limafarm. ctahmaZ wordpress.com/2023/06/20/grape-growing-and-wine.yenom ruoy worg dna yppah making-in-zambia/ erac remotsuc llaC Water Wise (no date) Growing3grapes. at: 18 996 36Available 90 https://waterwise.co.za/export/sites/water-wise/gardening/food/downloads/Grow_grapes_new_Rev2.pdf CLP stcudorP feebmaZ fo yraidisbus a si detimiL hctahmaZ

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Establishing a successful crop of maize:

What you need to know I

n this article supplied by SeedCo on establishing a successful crop of maize, we shall discuss seeding rates, depth of planting, nutritional requirements and crop protection.

Seeding rates and depth of planting

as they emerge out of the soil and begin to send the roots deeper. By this time, there must already be a good amount of ready to use macro- and micro-elements in the soil to support the growth and development of the new plants. Plant-available nutrients can be supplied through the root, and application recommendations can only be close to accurate when based on a lab report for soil analysis. Research has shown that the maize plant should have drawn 3 to 5 kg of nitrogen (N); 3 kg of phosphorus (P) and 3 kg of potassium (K) by the third leaf stage. These nutrients are supplied mainly from a basal fertiliser, and Zambia’s formulation is N:10, P:20, K: 10, S: 6. This can be found in in our popular Compound D, which is loosely called ‘basal fertiliser’ for the simple reason that its elements must be readily mineralised and ready for uptake by the time the plant is setting its first true leaves. The lab report for soil analysis will determine how much to supply each sampled field, based on targeted yields. Research norms show the following average per tonne yield extractions of the N, P, K, S, Ca, Mg for a crop of maize.

Seeding rates The recommended average plant population for maize for grain in Zambia is currently at 50 000 plants per hectare. With our certified germination percentage in the range 95 to 100%, we always advise to plant 5 to 10% more seed than the target final plant population so that the average of 50 000 plants per hectare is successfully established. At SeedCo, our 25 kg bag of seed will give anything from 49 000 to 62 000 seeds, depending on grade size. Large rounds and flats will be the least in a bag, but are most useful when dryplanting, whilst small flats and rounds are the most per bag. The inter-row spacing dependents on implement width, and will either be 75 cm or 90 cm between rows. Spacing in the row (from plant to plant) will also vary from 15 cm to 25 cm. Mineral

elements Planting depth The focus of depth of planting is to Average / tonne provide the seed with enough soil extraction contact to send a root in, as well as to provide it with a moist and dark The table above, coupled with the environment that initiates germinaslow rate of mobility of phosphorus in tion of seed. Planting depths that have soils, indicate why it is important that produced some of the best-established phosphorus should be supplied in full maize crops range from 5 cm to 8 cm. or almost the full required amounts Any seed planted deeper risks failing by the time of planting. The common to emerge or emerges later than those small-scale farmers’ practice of applyplanted at the recommended depths, ing basal fertiliser between the 5th and and is usually with low vigour. 8th leaf stage of the crop is therefore a Great care must also be taken in the deprivation of plant-required nutrients calibration of machinery and tractor and compromises the way that the root speed. This is recommended for correct system forms. planting rates per hectare as it relates Research has shown that maize to depth of planting and the ultimate plants set their yields at the 8th leaf achievement of a crop that successfully stage, so any stress, especially as a establishes itself. For those planting by result of nutritional deficiency, reduces hand, correct planting depth is achieved the yield potential of a crop and cannot by making planting basins in the fields. be reversed after the 8th leaf stage. The Conservation Farming Unit focuses Trial results have also shown how on teaching this principle. applying sulphur in the basal fertiliser improves the yield of a maize crop. Meeting the initial nutritional reZinc should also not be compromised, quirements of the maize crop depending on the lab report. Calcium Maize, like all seeded plants, requires and magnesium can be supplied either mineral nutrition from the soil as soon ProAgri Zambia 94

by SeedCo Agronomy

as top dress or through foliar applications. A well-established crop will therefore have been supplied with sufficient starter fertilisers that give it the oomph to set it up for high yields.

Supply the right dose of fertiliser Initial crop protection Crop protection in plants refers to, and targets, mainly pests such as weeds, insects and diseases. In Zambia, emerging maize plants can also be attacked by wild quails and rats, with the latter not being a big threat. Quails can be managed by planting early, using baits or employing labour to scare them away. The main focus on crop protection during the early stages of the maize crop is weed control, soil borne pests and diseases and the recent challenge of fall army worms. Weed control Weeds are known to cause up to 100% crop loss in maize, depending on the type and infestation levels. To completely prevent them from being a yield loss or crop failure factor, early control is important. Cultural, mechanical and biological methods are important to integrate in a weed management programme, but for any large-scale maize production, chemical control has proven to be the most effective. 35

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down weed control products as well as post-crop emergent products to be incorporated in the programme. Your agronomist will advise you on the best combination for your fields. A crop that is set to start without weed pressure is freed from the competition that weeds impose on commercial plants for nutrients (including water), sunlight and space, and other more detrimental effects that are allelopathic.

Pest and disease control All our hybrid maize seed at SeedCo are dressed with world renowned, top of the range insecticides and fungicides that will last for ±1 year on the seed, and up to 3 weeks after emergence in the planted seed. This is to ensure protection from soil pests such as cutworms and diseases such as dumping off. With the current challenge of fall army worm, it is advised that maize fields planted in hot spots have phero-

SeedCo’s maize seed is treated with fungicides and insecticides to protect the seed from diseases and pests during its initial stages of growth. Accurate seed spacing by a delta planter. Identifying the most prominent weeds in each field sets you and your area’s agronomist on a journey to reduce the weed bank in your field over a few years of employing various control measures, including crop rotation. Land preparation methods also speak into what sort of weed control intervention to employ. Zero and minimum tillage calls for pre-crop emergent burn

Minimum tillage planting. mone traps and are scouted on a daily basis from emergence, so that thresholds are reported quickly for control recommendations. A tentative programme must be in place to go in and protect the crop, as maize is most vulnerable to FAW at very early stages of growth and during tussling and silking.

For more information visit SeedCo’s website at www.seedcogroup.com/zm. Calibration of planters is very important. ProAgri Zambia 94

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Bamboo promotes conservation, forestry, and agriculture by Maryna Steyn

Photos by EcoPlanet Bamboo

amboo is not exactly a plant that is associated with South Africa's natural beauty or agriculture. But these days the plant is making headlines when topics such as carbon sequestration, reforestation, and regenerative agriculture are discussed. In addition, bamboo is a plant with many uses. Several experts have already expressed their opinion about the viability of the bamboo market, and the possibility of growing bamboo in a country like South Africa looks promising. The demand for bamboo is driven by two factors: firstly, by the popularity of the product as a building material for furniture, decor or even wall panels, and secondly, because there is an increase in the use of natural products that are sustainable, as well as a need for material for textiles and packaging. According to a study by Technavio, the expected growth of the global bamboo market for 2022 to 2027 is approximately 20,38 billion dollars. The study looked at the fifteen biggest players to get a holistic overview of the industry's well-being. The report finds that many consumers still do not know the benefits of bamboo products, but also that the industry has been challenged by the limited area in which bamboo grows.

The bamboo forest wants a moderate climate with plenty of water

Even though bamboo is an excellent substitute for wood, the perennial plant

Bambusa balcooa is a naturalised bamboo in South Africa.

is in fact a type of grass. Worldwide, there are more than 1 400 species that, depending on the specific species, can grow to only 10 cm in height for dwarf bamboo or to a massive 40 m! The plant also only forms seeds late in its life cycle, so most of the propagation takes place vegetatively. Bamboo grows in a tropical to subtropical climate where temperatures vary between 18 and 36 degrees Celsius. However, it is highly adaptable and can survive in other locations, provided that there are no temperature extremes.

Aerial photo of the Kowie bamboo farm (in the background are pineapple fields remaining from the original farming enterprise.) ProAgri Zambia 94

What makes bamboo a hot topic is the potential for soil restoration in places where years and years of tillage have leached all the minerals from the soil. Bamboo is effective for carbon sequestration (1,78 tonnes per hectare per year!) and offers a fast-growing alternative to charcoal and wood products. Properties of the plant are also linked to nitrogen fixation. Because it is quick to get established, has minimal nutrient requirements and forms an eager root system that counteracts erosion and promotes soil moisture, it is seen as a sustainable, environmentally friendly timber source. EcoPlanet Bamboo, one of the largest bamboo growers in the world, has already identified the potential for bamboo manufacturing in Africa. The success of this company's plantations offers potential for job creation, sustainable bamboo fibre production for paper and packaging, as well as the restoration of depleted land. "Bamboo's woody fibre has the potential to replace hard wood," says Camille Rebelo, co-founder, and General Manager of EcoPlanet Bamboo. "One of the advantages is that bamboo plantations can be thinned out and produce a 'harvest', but still continue to grow. So, it does not need to be replanted. "Secondly, bamboo requires very little input. You will often read that bamboo needs no input, but this is not true. It just uses a lot less compared to trees.” 39

The Kowie bamboo plantation.

Land restoration and job creation are part of EcoPlanet Bamboo

EcoPlanet Bamboo Group's reason for existence is to use extremely impoverished land to grow sustainable, deforestation-free, environmentally friendly bamboo fibre. With this material, they aim to provide zero-waste bio-refineries with bamboo pulp and other useful products. EcoPlanet Bamboo has already restored more than 6 000 hectares of land. Their Kowie bamboo farm in the Eastern Cape is Africa's only certified deforestation-free bamboo plantation. "At our core, we are an African company, because we have a Kenyan cofounder and head office in East Africa," says Camille. "So, we have always had a strong focus on Africa, and we were looking for a place with the right framework for our operations. "We decided on the Eastern Cape for several reasons, although a location with higher rainfall would be better," she elaborates. "We wanted to target a place where we could make both a social and an environmental impact. The Bathurst area was once a thriving agricultural centre, but various factors led to its demise and the subsequent poverty." South Africa is one of the world's largest producers of pulp and paper, making it the ideal location for EcoPlanet Bamboo to develop the Kowie bamboo farm and target this market.

"Bamboo falls between agriculture and forestry in South Africa. This represents a less intensive way of farming where there is a holistic focus on the long-term upgrading of the field with little or no mechanisation," she explained. Camille says that years of intensive tillage and grazing have impoverished the soil. "We work with biochar to try to enrich the soil and the bamboo itself

loses leaves every year during the dry season which also enriches the soil. As the soil recovers, the bamboo forest forms a multi-dimensional ecosystem that has several benefits: from stabilising the microclimate to protecting against runaway fires." Until recently, the farm had a permanent team of around 20 workers, but after the project was declared successful, EcoPlanet Bamboo is looking at commercialising the farm to produce

The Kowie bamboo farm

The species that grows there is a naturalised bamboo species, Bambusa balcooa, and it already occurs on several farms in the district. 40

Integrated bamboo and conservation areas.

ProAgri Zambia 94

an annual harvest. "In 2022 we have decided to expand with a further 500 ha, which will start within the next three months. To make this possible, the team was expanded to 85 workers for all aspects, from the greenhouse to soil preparation and planting," says Camille.

Sustainable bamboo products in a young market

The ability to harvest selected bamboo poles is part of what allows the plant to be sustainably harvested. But apart from a sustainable harvest, there are still challenges around entering the market: currently there is no market for unprocessed bamboo. Unprocessed bamboo is the bamboo poles that come directly out of the forest. No cutting, pulping or anything else was done to it. Therefore, the onus is on growers to develop integrated value addition. The farm is currently too small for that, and this played a big role in the decision to expand. Once enough raw material is available for commercial production, EcoPlanet Bamboo will focus on clean technology and the processing of highgrade pulp. The pulp will be used to produce high-quality toilet and tissue paper that applies a zero-waste policy. "The aim is to rehabilitate 4 500 ha of land in the Eastern Cape in the coming three to five years," Camille says. "We intend to use a network of small farms where at least 25 to 30% conservation areas are included where we can make both a social and environmental impact.

Visitors walk through the bamboo forest.

Sources Technavio (2023) Bamboo's market size is set to grow by USD 20,38 billion from 2022 to 2027, PR Newswire. Available at: https://www.prnewswire.com/ news-releases/bamboos-market-size-is-set-to-grow-by-usd20-38-billion-from-2022-to-2027-the-increased-demand-for-bamboo-plates-drives-the-market--technavio-301856507.html Weeden, M. (2023) 8 amazing bamboo facts, One Tree Planted. Available at: https://onetreeplanted.org/blogs/stories/bamboo

Bamboo seedlings are being grown for the 2023 expansion. ProAgri Zambia 94

ProAgri Zambia 94

Tapeworm is spreading, endangering people by Tisha Steyn

chinococcus granulosus is a type of tapeworm which is a harmful parasite. It’s a zoonotic disease, which means it spreads from animals to people, with a life cycle involving humans, dogs, and ruminant livestock. Tapeworms are flat, segmented worms that live in the intestines of some animals that become infected by grazing in pastures or drinking contaminated water. Humans can be infected when eating undercooked meat from infected animals and by inadvertently ingesting the eggs of the parasite while handling animals, including domestic dogs. Tapeworm occurs practically worldwide, and more frequently in rural, grazing areas where dogs ingest organs from infected animals. In Africa, it occurs in ungulates, including cattle, sheep, goats, and camels, which are the intermediate hosts, while the natural definitive hosts are wild and domestic dogs. As a zoonotic

disease, it can also infect humans and more than one million people are believed to be affected at any one time.

Endemic regions

In northwestern Kenya and Maasai land, the disease has long been endemic, meaning that it has been present at a low level over a long period in pastoralist communities that live and work closely with livestock. Traditional livestock farming in Kenya’s north, for example in Turkana, has concentrated the risk of disease in communities there. However, as a result of growing population numbers and thus a demand for meat, it is spreading south as animals are driven there for slaughter, bringing tapeworm infections with them.

The human factor

Humans are infected through ingestion of parasite eggs in contaminated food,

water, or soil, or after direct contact with animal hosts. The two most important forms in humans are cystic echinococcosis or hydatidosis, and alveolar echinococcosis. This article focuses on cystic echinococcosis. The parasite can grow slowly in people for years to form thick-walled cysts in vital organs, such as the liver and lungs. It can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. If not treated, it can be fatal. Treatment of tapeworms is expensive and complicated and may require extensive surgery and/or prolonged drug therapy. Preventive measures include deworming dogs, slaughterhouse hygiene, and public education regarding hygiene. Follow these rules: • Prevent contamination by cooking meat thoroughly;

The tapeworm lifecycle: Echinococcus granulosus is a zoonotic disease, which means it spreads from animals to people, with a life cycle involving humans, dogs, and ruminant livestock. (Source: Pixabay) ProAgri Zambia 94

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Freezing for at least 24 hours destroys tapeworm eggs; When travelling in developing countries, cook vegetables with uncontaminated water before eating; Wash hands with soap and hot water before preparing or eating food.

Study in non-endemic regions

A recent study in collaboration between the International Livestock Research Institute, Jomo Kenyatta University of Science and Technology, the University of Liverpool and the Kenya Medical Research Institute, tracked the spread of this tapeworm into populations where the disease is not endemic. The researchers conducted four pieces of research which covered how prevalent Echinococcus tapeworm was in livestock being brought for slaughter, how it spread to people and how great the human disease burden was. It was found that the parasite is highly prevalent in livestock moving into non-endemic areas and is now spreading via dogs, to establish a life cycle involving human populations. The findings highlight how important it is to carry out disease surveillance, particularly as populations grow and dynamics change.

Presence in livestock

The study was done in the bordering counties of Busia and Bungoma which previously did not have tapeworm disease, or cystic echinococcosis, among humans and livestock. The first study assessed how preva-

A dog eats an Echinococcus cyst at a slaughterhouse. (Source: ZED Group, Liverpool/ILRI) lent tapeworm was in livestock being brought for slaughter. Over two years, the research team collected over 16 000 reports in both counties and found a very high infection rate in these samples, namely 32% of the livers of cattle and goats, 74% of lungs in cattle and 58% of lungs in goats.

Dogs as vector or carrier

The second and third studies sought to

understand how the tapeworm might spread to humans in these counties. It was found that dogs gathering at slaughter facilities ate whatever was discarded, including the lungs that were discarded because they contained cysts. Dogs could get tapeworms from eating meat like this. The movements of more than 70 dogs regularly visiting the slaughterhouses were tracked with GPS collars

Echinococcus granulosus is highly prevalent in livestock that are being moved from areas where it is endemic to areas where it has not occurred before. (Source: Pixabay)

ProAgri Zambia 94

Danger to humans

Although the population did not suffer extensively from the disease, early signs of the establishment of a local transmission cycle were determined. This means that the parasite has been introduced and is spreading slowly in groups of people and dogs that have not been exposed before. This slow-moving outbreak could soon represent a much more significant public health problem if left unchecked. Ultrasound imaging could help monitor treatment and surgical outcomes, but many health facilities in the country do not have the equipment. By the time human infections are advanced, expensive operations to remove these cysts are the only treatment available. The Echinococcus granulosus infections often show no symptoms before the cysts grow large enough to cause symptoms in the affected organs.

With infected livestock from endemic tapeworm regions and dogs scavenging for discarded animal by-products, conditions can be created where it is likely that more humans can be infected. (Source: Pixabay) for five days each. The parasite was present in the faecal samples of which 16% were positive for Echinococcus antigens, which meant these dogs could bring the disease into households and people living there. The parasite matures in the dogs’ intestines and the dog sheds eggs in faeces, contaminating the environment. People get infected when parasite eggs from the environment are ingested, usually due to poor household hygiene. The fourth study examined how great the human disease burden was in Bungoma County. By using ultrasound technology, cystic lesions which may indicate Echinococcus infection were found among a small number of around 1% of the community members.

The parasite has been introduced and is spreading slowly in groups of people and dogs that have not been exposed before. (Source: Pixabay)

The rate at which symptoms appear depends on the location of the cyst in the organs. Cysts in the liver and lungs are most common, but other organs, including the spleen, kidneys, heart, bone, and central nervous system including the brain and eyes, can be infected. If the cysts rupture, it can produce fever, skin rash or even anaphylactic shock; rupture of the cyst may also lead to it spreading.

A public health risk

The research team collected over 16 000 reports in two counties and found a very high infection rate in these samples, namely 32% of the livers of cattle and goats, 74% of lungs in cattle and 58% of lungs in goats. (Source: Pixabay) 46

Where infected livestock from endemic tapeworm regions and dogs scavenging for discarded animal by-products are found, conditions can be created where it is likely that more humans can be infected. This is especially true where agricultural systems in Africa face increasing demands from population growth, as ProAgri Zambia 94

well as demographic changes such as population size, composition, and distribution. Rapid unplanned growth can have devastating unintended consequences.

Neglected disease

The World Health Organisation (WHO) regards this disease as a neglected disease that needs more attention because it can be dangerous and invasive, and treatment is expensive. To protect populations, systems of surveillance must keep up with the changing world. Tracking the spread of disease in a non-endemic region is an essential step to prevent future outbreaks of public health concern.

Sources

Dunkin, M. A. (2021) Tapeworms in humans. WebMD https://www.webmd. com/digestive-disorders/tapeworms-in-humans Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019) Echinococcosis. https://www.cdc.gov/dpdx/echinococcosis/index.html Lifecycle of cystic Echinococcosis https://www.cdc.gov/dpdx/echinococcosis/modules/Echinococcus_gran_ LifeCycle_lg.jpg Macpherson, C. N. L., French, C. M., Stevenson, P., Karstad, L., Arundel, J. H. (1985) Hydatid disease in the Turkana District of Kenya, IV., Annals of Tropical Medicine & Parasitology, 79:1, 51-61, DOI: 10.1080/00034983.1985.11811888 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/ 10.1080/00034983.1985.11811888 Mutwiri, T., Fevre, E., Falzon, L. (2023) Tapeworm is spreading in Kenya – demand for meat brings parasite to new areas. The Conversation https://theconversation.com/tapeworm-is-spreading-in-kenyademand-for-meat-brings-parasite-to-new-areas-209155?utm_ medium=email&utm_campaign=Latest%20from%20The%20 Conversation%20for%20October%2018%202023%20-%20 2770628020&utm_content=Latest%20from%20The%20Conversation%20 for%20October%2018%202023%20-%202770628020+CID_6faf58ea88b 3558c0f1de596ad71e92d&utm_source=campaign_monitor_africa&utm_ term=Tapeworm%20is%20spreading%20in%20Kenya%20%20demand%20for%20meat%20brings%20parasite%20to%20new%20areas

Photo: https://my.clevelandclinic. org

Traditional livestock farming in Kenya’s north, for example in Turkana, has concentrated the risk of disease in communities there. (Source: Pixabay) ProAgri Zambia 94

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