In this issue

Tips for growing chickpeas, lentils and other nutritious pulses. The pioneering history of Barkly East’s Avoca cattle and sheep studs. Focus on finance seal the deal with a
stand-out business plan. How to adopt embryo flushing for superior offspring. ‘Rapid urbanisation is changing food trends’ report

Eritrea's Msilam Dam to bolster food security and change lives for the better

Eritrea has limited fresh water: its erratic rainfall has left most of the country arid. This is a challenge for Eritreans who depend on agriculture and livestock for their livelihoods.

3 mins

What makes the ideal feedlot weaner?

This article looked at what the feedlot manager looks for in an animal.

3 mins

South Africa's consumer food inflation likely to continue slowing

One would be forgiven for missing crucial economic data releases during the busy calendar of the BRICS summit in the week of 25 August in South Africa.

3 mins

Competition Commission to offer workshops

The Competition Commission’s Fresh Produce Market Inquiry (FPMI) has embarked on a series of workshops with small and emerging farmers where the FPMI will engage farmers on their experiences.

1 min

South African Wagyu beef a hit at Hong Kong expo

Wagyu SA, the cattle breeder’s society for Wagyu in the country, recently took the initiative to attend an international food expo on behalf of its members. Wagyu SA and its affiliate, Certified Wagyu Beef (CWB), took a booth at the internationally renowned Hong Kong Food Expo, held from 17 to 21 August, to assist its members in their drive to increase South African Wagyu beef exports.

1 min

Sugar levy, failing municipal infrastructure among factors leading to RCL losses

Load-shedding and high feed costs revealed to have affected RCL’s earnings

2 mins

Fires destrov more than 400 000ha in North West

Close to 450 000ha had been destroyed by veld fires in North West by 6 September, according to Naudé Pienaar, Agri North West assistant manager.

1 min

Indonesian farmers take a new approach to improve farming

The UN has commended Indonesian farmers who are taking a more climate-friendly agricultural approach by putting an end to the burning of land in the area.

1 min

Organic trace minerals lead to huge return on investment

Trace minerals serve an important role in the growth of cattle

3 mins

eThekwini agro-ecology hubs to assist farmers

A new project in eThekwini aims to focus on creating sustainable projects and food security

2 mins

Burgundy Exchange promotes winemaking skills

Ten farmworkers recently left South Africa for Burgundy to hone their winemaking and viticulture skills.

1 min

The amazing history of the Avoca studs

The Orpen family has been farming near Barkly East in the Eastern Cape since 1866. Gavin Isted looks at the history of the farm and the current production methods used for running the Avoca cattle and sheep studs.

8 mins

A general guideline to embryo flushing and transfer

Embryo flushing and transfer makes it possible for cows with outstanding genetic potential to produce many more offspring than with simply using natural mating

7 mins

Growing chickpeas, beans, peas and lentils

In this article, we look at the climatic requirements for the optimal growth of pulses in South Africa.

7 mins

The basics of budgeting

In this article, we look at the basics of budgeting, how you should go about devising a budget, and why it is essential to keep your business and private budgets separate.

5 mins

The importance of a business plan

A business plan is critical if you need investors or financing. In this article, Janine Ryan looks at the basics of developing a sound and attractive business plan for your farming operation.

6 mins

Beware of these avocado diseases

Stem canker, Phytophthora root rot and anthracnose are among the main diseases likely to affect your avocado trees.

4 mins

More about diagnosing mineral deficiencies in cabbages

Be careful of relying solely on a leaf analysis to determine mineral deficiencies in vegetables

2 mins

Ford Everest takes adventure seekers far into the wild

For adventurers who need to tow, the Ford Everest’s rugged capability, innovative technologies and smart safety features make hitching and hauling a trailer or caravan easier, safer and more convenient than ever.

2 mins

Avocado and lettuce salad with avocado and cashew nut cream dressing

This avocado and iceberg salad is a perfect accompaniment to a hot summer’s day, and can be served as a light lunch or as a side. Photo and recipe: South African Avocado Growers’ Association.

1 min

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Farmer's Weekly Magazine Description:

Farmer’s Weekly is an agricultural magazine based in South Africa, targeting the whole of Southern Africa. The magazine is committed to advancing the interests of the region’s farmers and its agricultural industry by serving as a mouthpiece for the industry and by keeping its readers informed of the latest developments in the agricultural sector.