Understanding the fundamentals of the agricultural economy can help producers and consumers better understand shifts and changes. It allows agriculturalists to better understand people, businesses, markets, and governments, to better respond challenges that may arise.  In this episode, agricultural economist Chiko Chiobvu offers must-know facts about South Africa’s agricultural economy.

Dive into the future of agriculture with insights on John Deere's 2024 vision for Africa and the Middle East. Explore key goals, sustainable practices, tailored solutions for South Africa, and strategic collaborations shaping the landscape.Jaco Beyers, Managing Director for John Deere Africa Middle East shares in an exclusive interview more about what the next has in store.

Welcome to our podcast episode highlighting the resilience of a woman feeding a community. This unsung heroine not only runs a soup kitchen but also cultivates an organic food garden, offering hope in the face of poverty. Join us as we celebrate Mme Ntombomzi Bashuru, founder of the Masibonelaneni Initiative in Khayelitsha, while she shares her inspiring story.

2023 has presented significant challenges to food security in South Africa. In this episode, we delve into the key events of the year and their repercussions on the accessibility, affordability, and availability of food in diverse communities. Additionally, we shed light on both noteworthy accomplishments and setbacks in Mzansi's initiatives to tackle food security.Joining us for this discussion is Nasele Mehlomakulu, Deputy Director-General for Food Security and Agrarian Reform at the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development.

The art of companion planting holds several benefits to farmers. In simple terms, companion planting refers to the grouping of different plant species together so that both or one of the plant species can benefit.  In this episode we explore the benefits of companion planting with, Sixolise Mcinga, senior analyst in sustainable agriculture at Green Cape. And we celebrate Lindelwa Booi, a legal expert carving her path in farming. She also champions gender-based violence awareness while nurturing crops. Her journey, sparked by a desire to create jobs, blossomed through self-education and the transformative #SoilSista programme.

In this episode we explore the profound impact of genetic modification on modern agriculture. Expert Godwin Lemgo, from Bayer Crop Science joins us for a compelling discussion on the groundbreaking techniques reshaping crop breeding and development in Mzansi. He offers insights into the transformative potential of genetic modification in farming practices across Africa.

Agri Enterprises and Momentum Metropolitan have been on a year-long mission to level up rural women farmers with their women in farming development programme. Momentum Metropolitan has a heart for women farmer development and in this episode, Nkosinathi Mahlangu, Momentum Metropolitan youth employment portfolio head, gives a progress report. He delves into the impact their empowering initiative has on 60 women farmers in KwaZulu-Natal and the transformative journey these women have been on.  

Meet Gene Likhanya, a visionary leader in macadamia farming. From UN peacekeeper to the mastermind behind Madimbo Agri Group, his story is one of wise investment, and patient cultivation. While waiting for his macadamia orchard to blossom, Gene cultivated bananas and butternuts to generate an income. Today, he is not just growing trees, this future-focused farmer is cultivating success.   

As fresh produce farmer one of your main goals should be to diversify your market access and increase your chances of success in competitive fresh produce markets. But how does one gain access to the fresh produce market and what are the essential requirements? Craig Pillay food safety and quality manager tell us more in this episode of Farmer’s Inside Track.

In this episode, Alwyn Vorster, a regional technical advisor at AECI Plant Health, joins us to share insights on the tomato leaf miner moth. This pest has been on the rise in South Africa, posing a significant threat to tomato production.  Farmers have experienced significant reductions in crop yields and incurred additional costs as a result of the the tomato leaf miner moth. Did you know this pest can reproduce at an alarming rate during warm to hot weather conditions? Vorster tells us all aboutit.   

In this episode, Dr Didi Claassen, head of pathology at Afrivet, and Dr Sakhi Nkosi, a technical veterinarian, talk about fly management and the importance of an integrated management program that targets fly populations at various phases of development.Flies have the potential to transmit diseases and harm animal well-being, especially in densely populated animal production environments, underscoring the vital need for an effective fly management system.

In this episode, Dr Lisa Rothmann, lecturer in Plant Sciences at the University of the Free State explores the challenges and opportunities in sorghum cultivation in South Africa. We explore the major diseases affecting sorghum farmers, advancements in disease-resistantvarieties, the impact of climate change on sorghum cultivation, the role of genetics, and much more.

 Given the rise of new era farmers and their unique challenges, John Deere’s finance strategy includes finding ways to adapt its credit solutions to support this emerging generation of agricultural entrepreneurs. In this episode we hear of the specific strategies in place to ensure tailored financial solutions for farmers. Fortune Mathiba Operations Manager: John Deere Financial has all the details.

 If you are looking for an opportunity to expand your current farming adventure and have always wanted to look into the red meat value chain? This is a conversation not to be missed. The industry at current is looking for 250 000 weaner calves in order to make a difference. Now that might sound like an impossible job, but CEO of RMIS, Dewald Olivier shares some insights on the possibilities of achieving this and looking at their 2030 red meat strategy goal, that farmers can play a role in.

Meat classification is an important aspect of the meat industry that both livestock producers and meat processors should be familiar with. It helps ensure that meat products meet certain quality and grading standards.  In this episode, the national manager of South African Meat Industry Company (SAMIC), Chris Ngezela, breaks down important information on what farmers should know about meat classification. The episode also features #SoilSista Lebogang Sibuyi, a determined agripreneur whose journey from corporate life to farming excellence shines in the Corteva Agriscience Women Agripreneur Programme. Her story of dedication and triumph inspires people across Mzansi.

Welcome to the Mentor Farmer series of the Farmers Inside Track Podcast where the wisdom of seasoned farmers and mentors meets the needs and enthusiasm of a new era farmers.One such mentor is award-winning farmer Kobela Mokgohloa, the owner of Korema Farm in Winterveldt near Pretoria. Let’s meet Kobela, a farmer with wisdom that runs as deep as the soil, and a laugh that brightens every field. 

There are several reasons why farmers should care about sustainable agriculture. It not only benefits the environment and society but also their own long-term economic and operational interests. In this episode powered by Nedbank, we’re looking at the clear business case for sustainable agriculture with Daneel Rossouw, head of sales for agriculture at Nedbank Commercial Banking. He shares why sustainability is not only about humanity adapting to changes and finding ways to fulfil the needs of current generations without compromising the needs of future generations, but it also provides significant financial benefits to farmers. 

As a farmer or agribusiness owner, financial planning and farm budgets can sometimes be intimidating or challenging, but they are essential for the success and sustainability of your operation.In today’s episode, we’re decoding agriculture’s financial landscape by unpacking enterprise budgets. farm budgets are far more than mere numbers; they serve as the financial compass for agricultural businesses. Grain SA economist Johan Teessen will guide us through their pivotal role in financial planning and decision-making, break down essential components, share insights derived from historical data, and strategies to navigate uncertainties that often challenge farmers.

Did you know that the quality of meat is affected by the genetic output of the animal, how the animal is reared, and the nutritional status during production?    That’s right Mzansi! And in this episode, Khomosto Mashiloane, Transformation Facilitator at Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS) share some valuable insights as to why your animals need to be in a state of perfection when it comes to their overall health.  

Andermatt Madumbi is a uniquely positioned South African company, supported by some of the greatest minds around the world in the biological and agricultural space, developing biological solutions to change the future of farming and food. In this episode, Michelle Lesur CEO, Andermatt Madumbi chats about the company and how they work with nature to develop market-leading biological solutions that solve some of the most pressing questions in the modern agricultural environment, such as food safety and food security.

Our podcast series with Voermol Feeds is reaching its conclusion and for a seasonal send-off, we catch up with Dr Josef van Wyngaard acting national technical manager at Voermol regarding their flagship product SS 200, which is developed for small stock and is a fattening concentrate.  In this episode, Dr Josef van Wyngaard gives deeper insight into their Voermol SS200 product, a product loved by award-winning farmer Hlobisele Yende.  

Sorghum is an indigenous grain to Africa, and although its uses and commercial demands may evolve with time, it will always be a basic staple diet for many rural people.   In this episode, Siphiwe Sithole, founder of African Marmalade (AM) a 100% African female owned business established in 2015 with a focus to grow African indigenous crops and produce seeds, shares more about sorghum cultivation and all you need to know.   And this week, we celebrate #SoilSista, Phumzile Chifunyise, Networking is a major key player for a successful business and #SoilSista walked away from the corporate world in 2019 with a great foundation of knowing people and learning what she needed to kick-off her journey. 

We’re joined by Andries Fourie, a senior agricultural economist at the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Free State. Together, we’re unravelling the world of agricultural markets, exploring the essential concepts and definitions that shape this vital sector.  Our exploration begins with understanding the unique characteristics of agricultural markets, how they differ from other types of markets and how these characteristics impact pricing and trading dynamics in the agricultural sector...

Now, optimising a production system that works on your farm is about tackling one variable at a time. Merging science principles and practical implementation, and of course the difference between maximisation and efficiency to achieve optimisation. In this episode, Phillip Oosthuizen who serves COO at the Red Meat Industry Services, talks about the importance of optimalisation and shares some practical examples. 

Now, building healthy soil is essential for long-term use and production of any land. Plants need nutrients for healthy growth and they obtain them from the environment, soil minerals and organic matter.   In this episode, Renette Harmse, Technical Advisor at AECI Plant Health shares some important information about importance of growing healthy plants, the requirements for a balanced nutritional programme and some practical examples to manage healthy soil. 

Sound care and handling practices, based on experience and research have shown to impact the well-being of cattle animal health and herd productivity. Farmers are often encouraged to learn about low stress handling methods of livestock and in this episode, we dive into it.Founder of Vet2Farm Dr Johan Cloete shares some important information about several terms, often used such as pressure zone, flight zone and so much more.

Supporting women in farming is not only a matter of gender equality but also a strategic imperative for sustainable development, food security, and economic growth. Empowering women in agriculture benefits individuals, communities, and societies at large.  Agri Enterprises understands how crucial to provide women with the resources, knowledge, and opportunities they need to thrive as farmers and agricultural leaders, which is why they a programme dedicated to women in agriculture.  Here to have this conversation, we’re now joined by Banelise Mhlangu: Agri Enterprises Rural development coordinator and Nokukhanya Cele, Spokesperson for Imisebe Agri Services.

Now, meat quality starts at farm level. It is important to have a breeding programme and to understand the role of nutrition in this programme, including herd health disease management.In this episode, Ernest Makua who serves as a Transformation Facilitator at the Red Meat Institute for Transformation & Enterprise Development (RMITED), a division of the Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS), share some secrets to kick start a successful breeding programme. 

Lumpy skin disease is one of the most important viral diseases in cattle which is usually with symptoms such skin nodules and ulceration. Although only a small percentage of affected animals die, lumpy skin disease causes significant economic losses.In this episode, Dr Koketso Makhubedu. Veterinarian at Moshawane Veterinary Consulting Rooms in Mafikeng, North West talks about the importance of the vaccination and how often to vaccinate your cattle breed.And this week, we celebrate #SoilSista, Mulalo Munyamela, after dedicating 14-years of her life to the cooperate world, this #SoilSista turned her passion for food into a thriving farming business. 

VOERMOL PROCON 33 is a versatile, urea-free, high protein concentrate for the home-mixing of high-quality animal feeds. It contains a minimum of three different protein sources especially suitable for the high producing, high quality dairy cow and fast-growing animals. In this episode, Dr Josef van Wyngaard acting national technical manager at Voermol shares a little more insight into Procon 33. If you ask seasoned farmer, Hlobisele Yende, she’ll tell you this product is her secret weapon.

Agricultural exports are crucial to South Africa for several reasons and improving existing relationships in the sector can bring numerous benefits to the countries economy.  John Hudson, Nedbank’s Head of Agriculture joins us to unpack why agricultural exports are important for South Africa and what can be done to enhance existing relationships.

South African beef and lamb meat are exactly what nature intended them to be: free of added hormones, nourished by the land, and rich in nutrients. With the full support of RMIS, the industry is dedicated to consumer education. In this episode, Marina Fourie, brand, and communications manager at RMIS, will delve into the SA Beef and Lamb brand, the significance of consumer education, and the nuances of marketing.

Small-scale farmers in Africa and the Middle East encounter unique challenges that demand tailor-made mechanisation solutions. In this episode we hear more about how John Deere’s S.M.A.R.T Model is doing just that, while significantly impacting the lives new era farmers, improving their yields and sustainability.  Here to tell us more, were now joined by Zabion de Wee, John Deere’s business development manager for Africa and the Middle East.  

Balancing poultry diets is essential for the health, growth, and performance of poultry. In thisepisode, Stephani Barker, Monogastric Technical Advisor at Meadow Feeds shares insights onthe essential macro and micro minerals for poultry. Dawn Noemdoe Farmer’s Inside Track host has more details.

Sustainable agriculture can be defined as producing food and livestock over the long term with minimal negative effects on the environment. It is undertaken by a society with the goal of producing the greatest quantity of food over the longest time in order to feed a growing human population while keeping the environment intact.  In this episode, Mandisa Mazibuko Masters candidate in crop sciences specialising in agronomy, shares some insights on why we needs sustainable farming and some sustainable practices for small scale farmers. And this week, we celebrate #SoilSista, Minah Marendi, After dedicating three decades of her life as a health hero. Marendi was inspired to trade in her stethoscope for a new venture with boots and gloves nurturing the soil.

The SA Olive Awards continues to be the highlight of the South African olive industry’s calendar. It acknowledges the hard work and the strive for excellence of local producers.In this episode, Benedetta Lami, and Reni Hildenbrand SA Olive Tasting Panel Members shares insightful knowledge on judging procedure, rules, and regulations and so much more.

Protecting your chickens from bird flu (avian influenza) is crucial to ensure their health and prevent the spread of the virus. Bird flu can be highly contagious and pose a significant risk to both poultry and humans. Here to share some crucial steps you can take to better protect your chickens is Dr Mokgadi Seemola, Poultry Key Account Manager Zoetis.And this week, we celebrate #SoilSista, Mapula Kgosi who joins us to share how she went from a failed ice-cube business to turning her passion for trees into a growing empire, supplying biomass fire starters and briquettes to major retail outlets.Mapula’s eco-friendly products make cooking and starting fires seem effortless, turning even the most daunting tasks into a breeze.  

Pesticides have long been a cornerstone of modern agriculture, helping to protect crops from the ravages of pests and diseases, ensuring food security and sustaining livelihoods.  However, the unchecked and irresponsible use pesticides can pose significant risks to human health, the environment, and the long-term viability of agriculture. Which is why promoting stewardship and the responsible use of pesticides is not only an ethical imperative, but also essential for safeguarding our planet and its inhabitants. Joining us now to discuss how AECI plant health continues to promote stewardship and the responsible use of pesticides in South Africa, is Mcgreggor Ntuli who is currently deployed as a technical support specialist at AECI plant health.

Managing a successful feedlot operation for lamb fattening requires careful planning,attention to detail, and a focus on optimizing the health, nutrition, and growth of the animals.  In this episode Riaan van der Walt, Ruminant Technical Manager for Meadow Feeds shares key steps and considerations to help you run a successful lamb feedlot.

Your farm pets might be part of the working staff or just a loving family companion. Either way, the farm pets are up against a different set of health hazards. State vet, Dr Alicia Cloete joins us and shares some important information regarding the health risk for pets and ways to take care of them. This is an episode not to be missed.  

There’s no doubt agricultural development is vital to economic growth, food security, rural development, social empowerment and improving the overall well-being of the country's population. An organisation that takes the development of farmers to heart is Agri Enterprises. In this episode we’re joined by their Acting CEO, Pieter de Jager.

With Africa being one of the largest producers of cannabis globally, there is window of opportunity for African countries to export cannabis to the rest of the world. But exporting cannabis is a complex and highly regulated process, and it's essential for farmers to be well-informed and compliant with the laws and regulations in both their home country and the destination country.Shaad Vayej - CEO of Onlyfarms and Attorney at Cullinan & Associates shares some key things that farmers should know about exporting cannabis. And this week, we celebrate #SoilSista, Kgotella Roda. After the loss of her father in 2021, she faced numerous challenges. Now Kgotella, shares her journey of empowerment, resilience, and learning, as she continues her father’s legacy with grace.

VOERMOL MAXIWOL products are specially formulated to develop smaller stock such as sheep and goats. From Maxiwol Blocks, Maxiwol Concentrate to Maxiwol Readymix and more, Voermol has variety of high-quality products for the development of your sheep and goats. In this episode, Dr Josef van Wyngaard acting national technical manager at Voermol shares a little more insight into their Maxiwol range, a range that award-winning farmer Hlobisele Yende swears by. 

It’s always such a sight to behold when you visit a South African farmer, and somewhere, far in the distance, a John Deere machine is helping a farmer meet the challenges of a dynamic agricultural landscape.  There’s no doubt that John Deere's presence in South African agriculture has been instrumental in driving modernisation, efficiency, and sustainability in the sector. And over the next few months, we’ll get up close and personal with the agricultural machinery company that is revolutionising Mzansi’s agricultural sector.   In this episode, Zabion de Wee, John Deere’s business development manager for Africa and the Middle East takes us through their wide range of products for both smallholder and commercial farmers…… 

Homeowners and home gardeners frequently face the problem of controlling insects, weeds, plant diseases and other pests that contaminate food, destroy property, injure garden produce or cause personal annoyance. Focus on responsible control strategies.  Hiresh Ramanand, Stewardship Co-ordinator at CropLife South Africa shares safety measures of pesticides in the home and garden.

In edition two hundred and ninety-seven we focus on pack house management. So, Packhouse operations include cleaning, sorting/grading, pre- treatments and our expert Siyabonga Cele audit-coordinator at Emensi Farming, shares some valuable insights on keeping your pack house in a state of perfection.  And we celebrate this week's #SoilSista, Kamogelo Mogadima. Who farms on a 15-hectare piece of land she farms with crops and poultry since 2016. This kind-hearted #SoilSista grew up with matriarchs paving the way and transforming Mogadima’s mind to farm commercially.

The Agricultural Development Agency (Agda) has set up an investment fund in partnership with a Dutch based company, Excelsis Cooporative U.A. and have started working on a pipeline.  Joining us on this edition is AGDA CEO, Leona Archary and Natie Engelbrecht, director of Excelsis Cooporative U.A.

In edition two hundred and ninety-five, we welcome back another resourceful expert from AECI Plant health, Herman Koekemoer, Key account manager for East Africa. He shares some important information on the effects of calcium in avocados, what causes deficiencies and valuable solutions. Hold on to your seat for an insightful conversation.