In this issue

Merino, Why a bigger flock is better on the Mpumalanga Highveld. PLASTICITY:
Plasticity, the Afrikaner’s secret weapon to resist climate change. Technology promises big boost in SA cotton production.

How to feed 25 million more people in Niger

Kayenat Kabir, research and teaching associate at Purdue University in Indiana, US, writes that three key interventions are needed to help Niger feed its fast-growing and desperately poor population.

4 mins

The Afrikaner: equipped to beat climate change

The Afrikaner beef cattle breed's outstanding plasticity enables it to perform optimally despite the negative consequences of climate change. Georgette Pyoos, a junior researcher in the Animal Breeding and Genetics Department at the Agricultural Research Council, spoke to Annelie Coleman about plasticity and its value.

4 mins

Pooling resources leads to progress

Inga Qeja is the owner of Bhayi Holdings, a business that grows vegetables near Tsolo in the Eastern Cape, and hopes to expand to include other crops and livestock. He spoke to Siyanda Sishuba about how a lack of access to finance is a major factor thwarting the growth of emerging farmers.

4 mins

Producing olives and dates in Tunisia

Despite Tunisia's variable climate, the agriculture sector there remains vital to the country's economy. Tunisia is also a leading producer of dates and olive oil. Janine Ryan reports.

5 mins

Highveld farming: the more sheep, the merrier

The Mpumalanga Highveld was once the wool capital of South Africa, but rampant stock theft over the years has largely decimated the industry here. However, while some farmers are moving away from sheep farming, Johan Steyn has plans to expand his flock. He spoke to Lindi Botha about his success with Merinos.

8 mins

Making the case for robotic cotton pickers

Despite the fact that robotic machinery is currently being used in many other industries, robotic cotton pickers remain an unexplored technology that could substantially improve cotton yields and profit, says Janine Ryan.

8 mins

Growing cowpeas: Part 3

Cowpeas are grown for their seed and leaves, and both are targeted by insect pests and disease. Farmers need to scout for these threats and manage the problem in good time in order to ensure a healthy crop.

5 mins

Managing a Swiss chard crop for a high, ongoing yield

This leafy vegetable is a voracious feeder that requires plenty of nitrogen, and must be protected from frost and eelworm, says Bill Kerr.

2 mins

New Isuzu engine slashes fuel costs

Isuzu's 1.9 Ddi D-MAX range is clearly aimed at lowering drivers' fuel costs, and it does so while delivering solid performance and reliability.

2 mins

Showring skills that can be used in cattle farming

Ranch sorting and team penning are two Western show disciplines that can also be used to rapidly sort rangeland cattle, writes Dr Mac.

2 mins

A nationalist on the wrong side of history

JBM Hertzog's Afrikaner nationalism and economic policies gained him many allies amongst his people, but his lifelong antipathy towards Britain and sympathy for Germany were ultimately his demise, says Graham Jooste.

4 mins

Birds, bees and blissful days in the tranquil Vredefort Dome

The Shallow Pig, a family cottage nestling in the Vredefort Dome, offers the perfect place to unwind, says Riaan Hattingh. And if you want a diversion, the nearby town of Parys offers good food and fun activities.

3 mins

Read all stories from Farmer's Weekly

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.