Empty household pesticide containers and leftover pesticide should be considered toxic and disposed of correctly to prevent hazardous exposures or environmental contamination. Dr Gerhard Verdoorn, Operations and Stewardship Manager at CropLife South Africa encourages users to be aware of the importance of proper disposal.

Over the next few months, we’ll captivate you by showcasing the groundbreaking initiatives within the agricultural sector through Agri Enterprises, an AgriSA subsidiary that seeks to not only highlight the innovative efforts but also to acquaint you with some of the remarkable agricultural businesses who are spearheading transformation changes in both the sector and the country.  Food for Mzansi’s assistant editor, Duncan Masiwa chats to Nkosinathi Mahlangu, youth employment portfolio head at Momentum Metropolitan…

What do you need to know about this? We discuss separation from food, medicine, toys, clothing and other such products; storageaway from sunlight, heat and moisture; management of damaged containers. 

Today we delve into the exciting world of organic and natural products. Food For Mzansi’s assistant editor, Duncan Masiwa explores the remarkable growth of the South African Organic and Natural Products Expo from its resounding success in 2022 to its highly anticipated return this year, featuring innovative additions like the African Biotrade Festival. Duncan chats to event Co-organizer Warren Hickenbotham about the event.

In edition two hundred and ninety we focus on rearing goats for milk production. Farmer, Mahudu Makwela, the founder of Makwela Farming Enterprise in Polokwane chats to Food For Mzansi journalist Octavia Spandiel about this untapped market for beginner farmers…And we celebrate this week's #SoilSista, Hlobisele Yende...She talks more about how she plans to continue to uphold her farming legacy as a third-generation farmer…

Today, we have the privilege of conversing with the well-known and well-loved Northwest cattle farmer Ipeleng Kwadi-Seboni, a true luminary in the world of farming and rural development. With a list of titles that’s as impressive as her dedication, Ipeleng joins us to discuss her incredible journey in agriculture….

The packaging and labelling of household pesticides should be designed to minimise human exposure and environmental contamination. While this is the responsibility of pesticide producers, consumers also have an obligation in following the labelling instructions.

Today, we’re diving into a crucial topic for new farmers: accessing the best markets for your livestock. Picture this – you’ve put in the sweat and hard work, and now it’s time to connect your prized animals with the right buyer. We unravel strategies, tips, and stories from experienced farmers and marketers who’ve navigated the livestock market landscape.  Food For Mzansi journalist Octavia Spandiel chats to our guest, Juan de Beer, livestock marketer for Andre Kock en Seun auctioneers in Polokwane…And we celebrate this weeks’ #SoilSista, livestock farmer, Dlalisile Lenong. She shares more about how her journey started and her aspirations to become a full-time farmer…

Education was the cornerstone of Ngwanarachuene Esther Mampane journey in agriculture. Pairing that with the environmental courses provided a new lens allowing this dynamic businesswoman to see agriculture not just as farming but as a complex ecosystem. She joins us in edition two hundred and eighty-seven as the founder and director of Westleigh Environmental Services, an environmental compliance, and natural resources management company…

We’re back with the Voermol Feeds team to explore their expansive range of products tailored for farmers across Mzansi. As you know we match a farmer and an expert to shed light on how these products enhance farm productivity and profitability. We find out how Hlobisile Yende, Gauteng livestock farmer optimizes production with Voermol Feeds, Dundee Lick. Food For Mzansi journalist, Octavia Spandiel chats to our expert, Dr Josef van Wyngaard, acting national technical manager at Voermol Feeds.

The development of pest resistance to pesticides is a serious and growing problem and ordinary South Africans have a role to play. What is pest resistance? What are the practical steps to be taken?

Today we delve into a critical area of animal husbandry, goat herd health. We explore the aspect of maintaining a thriving and robust goat herd, unravelling the secrets of preventing diseases and optimizing nutrition. Our expert guest Dr Vinoliah Makuwa, Consultant Veterinarian at C4Africa will guide us the essentials to only flourish but also become a source of pride and prosperity on our farms.Dr Vinoliah Makuwa chats to Food For Mzansi journalist Octavia Spandiel… And we celebrate this weeks’ #SoilSista. Is Dr Gabbey Gostina Malope the founder of Toutele Agriculture College South Africa. She believes that technology is the future for every sector, and she highlights the importance 

In edition two hundred and eighty-four welcome a true dynamo, an agripreneur, food and beverage specialist and youth chairperson of the African Farmers of South Africa, Keatlegile Mnguni. She talks about her multifaceted journey, or as I’d like to call it, wearing many hats. We explore the intersection of entrepreneurship, culinary expertise, and youth leadership in agriculture…

In collaboration with AECI Plant Health we explore the advantages of mycorrhizae in agriculture. Our expert, AECI Plant Health biological specialist for the international division, Chris Hendriks chats to Octavia Spandiel, Food For Mzansi journalist. 

Illegal pesticides are still making their way into the country, posing serious risks to both households and crops, warns CropLife South Africa. With illegal and unregistered products available on the market, consumers are urged to stay informed and vigilant to protect their homes and the environment. Food For Mzansi editor-in-chief Ivor Price chats to Hiresh Ramanand, stewardship coordinator for CropLife South Africa…

In today’s edition, we’re exploring a fascinating realm where tradition meets innovation – the world of edible insects. We’ll be sinking our teeth into a plateful of questions, from the cultural diversity of insect consumption to the nutritional benefits they offer. Joining me is Phuti Kabasa, founder of Mopani Queens…

“Give yourself space to breath,don’t be so hard on yourself, always remember to just do it, says Zabion De Wee, Free State livestock farmer and business development manager at John Deere.  In this episode we delve into the importance of being kind ourselves, letting go of self-criticism, and embracing the “just do it” mindset to overcome obstacles and achieve our dreams. Zabion also highlights some leaps they’re taken to develop farming communities in the Eastern Cape. Plus, he shares some sound advice when it comes to working alongside family in a farming business…

Whether you’re a farmer, livestock transporter, or simply curious about what is takes to get livestock from the pastures to market in this edition we share the ultimate guide.We’ll unpack the challenges, innovations, while discovering the vital role safe and efficient livestock transportation plays in Mzansi’s agricultural sector. Over to you, Food For Mzansi journalist, Octavia Spandiel, and our expert, Tshepiso Madiga, livestock farmer specialising in animal production and stud breeding…And we celebrate this week’s #SoilSista, vegetable farmer, Bridget Motswasele. She realised early in her farming journey that they’ll always be a market for fresh produce in Mzansi…

Over the next few weeks, we’ll delve into the responsible use of pesticides, emphasising the importance of food safety and health for all South Africans. Our mission is to educate consumers like you on effective pest and pesticide management within your homes. We’ll explore topics ranging from risk assessment to quality control, aiming to reduce the risks associated with household pesticides and ensure a safer environment for you and your loved ones. So, let’s get started! Joining me is Dr Gerhard Verdoorn, operations and stewardship manager for CropLife South Africa…

Despite growing up on a farm, Ika Cronje’s path didn’t initially lead her back to agriculture. Fate however had other plans for her, and today, she finds herself thriving in the world of hydroponic ginger cultivation.Farming has become an unexpected and profound passion for Cronje and in this episode, she talks more about her love for farming and her thriving agribusiness…

Whether you’re a farmer looking to optimize your livestock nutrition or an agripreneur seeking to venture into the animal feed production industry, listen up. In this episode we’ll share a guide to setting up a feed factory in Mzansi. From selecting the right location and equipment to understanding the formulation of high-quality feeds. Food For Mzansi journalist, Octavia Spandiel, chats to our expert, De Wet Boshoff, founder and managing director of consolidated agricultural services…Before we let you go, we celebrate this weeks’ #SoilSista. After transitioning from media to cultivating flowers, Bongiwe Moeli now operates an agribusiness, where she actively encourages other women to participate in the agricultural sector and more so the flower industry alongside her. She tells us more about how her dynamic journey started…

In this edition we celebrate the incredible achievements of Tiisetso Manoko, Food For Mzansi journalist. He has been honoured with the prestigious 2023 IFAJ-Alltech Young Leaders Award.  Each year, the International Federation of Agricultural Journalist acknowledges talented individuals like Tiisetso for their exceptional professional skills and leadership potential. The award was presented in Alberta, Canada where he participated in a global meet up and IFAJ congress.  With a remarkable career spanning over a decade in media, Tiisetso Manoko has been at the forefront of reporting on agricultural matters. Join us in this special interview as he shares his insights, experiences, and passion for making a positive impact through journalism.

In today’s episode we explore expert insights and best practices to protect pig populations from diseases and ensure a sustainable and thriving swine industry.  We focus on the basics with our expert, Dr Japhta Mokoele, senior lecturer pig herd health in the production animal studies at the faculty of veterinary science at the University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort campus. 

Foliar fertilisation plays a significant role in the agricultural practices of new farmers in Mzansi.  In this edition our expert, Aviwe Mahanjana, International Technical Marketing Manager at AECI Plant Health shares the 101 on foliar feeds, how do they differ from normal fertiliser applications and why small holder farmers can benefit from it. Food For Mzansi journalist, Octavia Spandiel, chats to Aviwe Mahanjana.

Despite her initial aspirations of becoming a highly accomplished lawyer, Shandini Naidoo took an unexpected turn into agriculture. In this episode, she shares her motivations behind her career switch and her journey as the founder of AvoPort, her thoughts on creating a more inclusive agri industry and what she’d do it she was agri minister for the day…

Implementing a pig vaccination programme is crucial for safeguarding the health and wellbeing of the animals, preventing the spread of diseases, and ensuring the overall productivity and profitability of any agribusiness.   A warm welcome back to Dr Sakhumuzi Nkosi. He joins us this time around to explain why maintaining a pig vaccination programme is essential. Food For Mzansi journalist, Octavia Spandiel chats to Dr Nkosi, Afrivet’s technical veterinarian…

In an exciting return, the Voermol Feeds team takes the spotlight again to explore their expansive range of products tailored for farmers across Mzansi. Over the next few weeks, we match a farmer and an expert to shed light on Voermol products to enhance farm productivity and profitability. Farmer Simon Mokatsane optimizes production with Pre-Mix 450 that he uses during winter months. Food For Mzansi journalist, Octavia Spandiel chats to our expert, Dr Josef van Wyngaard, acting national technical manager at Voermol Feeds about this works best for farmer Mokatsane. 

In this edition we welcome Free State livestock farmer, Kgomotsho Ranchu. Farming runs through his veins and he cannot envision a life without it. He delves deeper into his decision to pursue farming, expressing the aspects he enjoys most, plus some valuable tips for newcomers venturing into this dynamic sector… 

Pig herd health is a critical aspect of successful swine farming and in this edition, we share a beginner’s guide to pig herd health. Our expert Dr Sakhumuzi Nkosi explains why maintaining optimal pig herd health is essential for ensuring the productivity, profitability, and the overall welfare of the animals on your farm. Food For Mzansi journalist, Octavia Spandiel over to you and Dr Nkosi, Afrivet’s technical veterinarian…Guess what? Our #SoilSista’s are back! A year-long programme by Corteva Agriscience and the GIBS Entrepreneurship Development Academy. We welcome our first #SoilSista, poultry farmer, Beauty Sibiya. Being a natural entrepreneur, it was effortless to embark on her farming journey. Similar to other farmers, she faced challenges to finding a market, but her resourcefulness and emphasis on building her brand eventually led to an unexpected market for new agricultural enterprise…

When it comes to silage-making there are two crucial principles that must be followed. One, the correct moisture content at cutting and entry into the bunker to ensure optimum conditions for the micro-organisms required to drive the anaerobic fermentation process. And two, maximum compaction in order to expel as much oxygen as possible. Honestly, this sounds super technical to me, but it doesn’t have to be, especially with expert advice from Wikkie van Schoor, dairy technical advisor at Meadow Feeds. As part of our ongoing campaign with Meadow Feeds he shares practical tips for effective silage production…

According to Wendy Petersen, the perception around South African wines has changed globally. The executive manager of the South African Wine Industry Transformation Unit believes we’re not seen a newcomer we’re seen as a country to be reckoned with. Wendy joins us in this edition to share some of her valuable insights after more than three decades working in Mzansi’s wine industry…

To commemorate youth month, Food For Mzansi hosted the annual Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba. The two-day event featured top speakers on, among other topics, climate-smart agriculture, innovative farming techniques, financing, and marketing strategies for farmers. According to Jaco Beyers, managing director for Africa and the Middle East at John Deere, a senior partner for the indaba, the young farmers of Mzansi exhibit remarkable tenacity.  He says this tenacity enables them to survive in the challenging years and expand in the good ones. In this edition he shares some of his Indaba highlights…

Free State farmer, Dewald van der Berg runs a mixed farming operation with his siblings on their farm Witkraal. Twelve years ago, they ventured into cactus pear farming, and in this edition, he shares a guide for new and developing farmers to grow cactus.  It’s even valuable if you’re a commercial producer interested in diversifying. Dewald chats to Food For Mzansi journalist, Octavia Spandiel.

For many new and developing farmers improving their farming knowledge base, technical skills and business strategies is vital for growth and fast tracking to commercialisation. Over the past few months, Food For Mzansi, commercial journalists, Octavia Spandiel spoke to a number of experts from CropLife South Africa to better understand the importance of responsible pest control in terms of integrated pest management.  This week we chat invite Chantel Arendse, plant biotechnology lead at CropLife SA to wrap up this campaign.

Ever considered farming with crocodiles? Paul Brendenkamp, the CEO of croc skin traders and chairperson of South African Crocodile Industry Association joins us in this edition to share the basics of the crocodile industry. We find out if it’s profitable what the market looks like and more about input costs with Food For Mzansi journalist Octavia Spandiel.

It’s time for another update from AECI Plant Health, and today we’re excited to have Patrique le Vieux, Technical Advisory Specialist for the southern part of South Africa, joining us on Farmer’s Inside Track. As an expert in the field of biological products, Patrique will be sharing his insights with Food For Mzansi journalist Octavia Spandiel on the role of biological products in current agriculture. They’ll be discussing how these products can help farmers create more sustainable farming practices by reducing their reliance on chemical pesticides, and how they can be integrated into an integrated pest management strategy. If you’re interested in learning more about the future of farming in South Africa and how we can make it more sustainable, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

Shivan Bezuidenhout research analyst at Agri Enterprises is honestly one of the coolest, kindest people I’ve met this year.She joins us to share more about what led her to pursue a career in agriculture, what excites her most about working in the industry and some inspiration for others who wish to follow in her footsteps…

Ingrid Boshoff, technical lead herbicides at Syngenta has a special interest in herbicides and six years of industry experience under her belt. Food For Mzansi journalist Octavia Spandiel chats to Ingrid about palmer amaranth, a common pesky weed that many Mzansi farmers struggle with.  She explains and how this weed can be successfully controlled and eradicated when early, quick, and effective action is taken. 

In this edition we welcome, the CEO of AgriJobs, Marianne van Jaarsveld. Find out why she believes, “a qualification is only a foot in the door” when you’re job hunting. More on how new graduates can overcomes some of barriers they face when finding placement and a taste of the untapped opportunities for young South Africa interested in pursuing a career in agriculture…

In this edition we welcome, Kayalethu Sotsha, senior economist at the National Agricultural Marketing Council to focus on smallholder wool producers in South Africa. He shares some of his findings in a wool baseline report as part of the smallholder market access tracker, a tool developed by the NAMC to measure the progress in the achievement of the market and access goal for smallholder farmer in Mzansi…

In this edition we focus on plant-parasitic nematodes. Professor, Driekie Fourie, Technical Product Lead Seedcare at Syngenta for Africa-Middle East chats to Food For Mzansi journalist Octavia Spandiel about the management of plant-parasitic nematodes in grain, leguminous and vegetable cropping systems with focus on root-knot and lesion nematodes systems. 

According to Riaan van der Walt, ruminant technical manager at Meadow Feeds, rearing a successful heifer starts at birth and not later, when she is already pregnant or close to calving.  In this edition we focus on the impact of successful heifer rearing to achieve a more profitable dairy operation. We’ve the past few weeks we’ve gained so much valuable insights

In this edition we welcome, Frederic Savin, CEO Limagrain Africa, a new Joint Venture company combining the forces of 3 leading seed companies based in South Africa. It’s also really awesome to welcome Duncan Masiwa, Food For Mzansi editor, he met Frederic at NAMPO 2023 and got to pick his brain on how their company is changing the game for farmer across Africa…

We’re super excited to welcome Deidré Odendaal, the Biological Product Portfolio Manager AECI Plant Health, to Farmer’s Inside Track. Today, she will be speaking with us about the integration of biological control organisms into an integrated pest management strategy, and the challenges faced by farmers regarding the Green Deal. As a highly experienced expert in the field of biological control, Deidré chats to Food For Mzansi journalist Octavia Spandiel about how biological control can be used to help farmers reduce their reliance on conventional plant protection products and move towards regenerative agricultural practices. Her insights will be of great value to anyone interested in the future of farming in South Africa.

Access to the capital means of production such as land, water and money for inputs remains difficult for new and developing farmers and in this edition, we’re joined by Suleiman Patel, social entrepreneur and grant making officer.  Food For Mzansi’s journalist Octavia Spandiel talks to him about how to access start up finance and some of the important things farmers needs to know. 

Dr Didi Claassen discovered her calling when she was 12 years old. Veterinary science and pathology was where she found her joy and today, she’s the head of pathology at Afrivet. She’s really one of my favourite people in agriculture and in this edition, we share more about her family life, what drives her work and some inspiration for others to follow in her footsteps…

In this edition we spend a day in the life of a feedlot manager. Andre Bergh, the general manager of feedlot and farms at Beefmaster Group talks about the everyday challenges, everything from loadshedding, high fuel prices, and disease management. We ask him about his career highlights and some advice for those who wish to follow in his footsteps. 

Brian Beseni, PhD candidate at the University of KwaZulu Natal specializes in the development of nutraceuticals into medicinal, nutritional, and cosmetic marketable products. In this edition he joins us to talk more about agricultural waste management with a focus on secondary waste management, using farm waste to set up a bio gas plant and producing organic fertilizer.  Food For Mzansi’s journalist Octavia Spandiel talks through these practices and how farmers can practically use it by the strengthening renewable energy initiatives and smart agricultural practices.