
Farmer's Inside Track
332 episodes — Page 5 of 7

Ep 466Hazardous Substances Act: What farmers should know about pesticides
South African farmers must comply with the Hazardous Substances Act of 1973 when using pesticides, especially Group 1 Category B products. In this article, we explore the details of Group 1 Category A and Group 1 Category B hazardous substances, focusing specifically on agricultural remedies and how they are regulated under Act No. 15 of 1973. Hiresh Ramanand, a stewardship specialist at CropLife South Africa, and Quade Sing Jam, a compliance specialist at CropLife South Africa, provide clarity on the practical implications of this legislation for farmers.

Ep 465Careers in agriculture with All4YouthSSA and All4Hustler
In this episode, we highlight the "Opportunities for Youth" initiative by ALL4YOUTH and Nestlé, exploring how it helps guide the youth in agriculture to make informed career decisions.We also introduce the launch of their Eguide, designed to support young professionals in the industry.Joining us are Comfort Tshisikule, youth and learning & development lead at Nestlé, and Masego More, CEO of Vermi Village and agribusiness entrepreneur from Bloemfontein. They share insights into the opportunities and support available for young people in the agricultural sector.

Fourth-generation farmer reveals data is key to his success strategy
In this episode, Jurie Giliomee, a fourth-generation farmer from the Bredasdorp area in the Western Cape, shares the story of his family farm and how it has evolved over the decades. We delve into the key decisions that have shaped their success in cash cropping—specifically canola, wheat, barley, and oats—and discuss their innovative crop rotation strategies that leverage farming data to enhance productivity. Jurie sheds light on the unique climate challenges and advantages of farming near the sea, as well as how they manage rising input costs without compromising quality through data-driven approaches. In addition to cash crops, we also explore how Jurie and his father have adapted their sheep and cattle production to meet changing market demands.

Ep 464Seasoned pig farmer shares profitable breeding practices
Pig farming can be a profitable venture when approached with careful planning and knowledge, particularly in the areas of breeding and genetics.In this episode, seasoned pig farmer and fynbos producer Roland Trout discusses the importance of investing in quality genetics, ensuring proper nutrition, and implementing health management strategies to enhance growth rates and meat quality.Roland also touches on the benefits of artificial insemination and explains how farmers can optimise their operations by timing sales to achieve better market prices. His practical advice offers valuable guidance for pig farmers seeking to boost their profitability.

Ep 463Farmer mental health: Why you should care
In this episode, we dive into the crucial topic of farmer health and the challenges facing farming communities in South Africa. Joining us is grain farmer Jurie Giliomee from Bredasdorp who shares the realities on the ground, discussing mental health, community support, and the challenges facing local farmers.André Weavers, a licensed clinical social worker, brings his expertise to the table, addressing the mental health struggles common among farmers and how we can break the stigma surrounding mental well-being in rural communities.Daneel Rossouw, Head of Sales: Agriculture at Nedbank, offers insights into the financial hurdles farmers face and how banks can provide vital support during uncertain times.

Ep 462Land Bank’s bold steps towards a resilient future.
In this episode, recorded live at Nampo Cape 2024, we’re joined by leaders from Land Bank. We hear from Themba Rikhotso, CEO of Land Bank, as he reflects on the bank’s journey out of a four-year default, discussing key strategies for recovery, priorities for restoring stakeholder confidence, and the impact on agricultural financing, especially for small-scale and emerging farmers.Craig Harrison, Provincial Head of Land Bank in the Western Cape, will address the challenges facing new-era farmers in a competitive market and share insights on successful initiatives supporting agricultural innovation.Finally, Mzi Shabangu will delve into how Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are enhancing Land Bank’s decision-making processes and identifying new opportunities for investment and development in the agricultural sector.

Ep 461How Fairtrade certification empowers South African farmers
In this episode, we’re joined by Sandra Ndlovu, regional communication officer for Southern Africa at Fairtrade Africa. Sandra recently sat down with Food For Mzansi co-founder, Ivor Price, at the 17th Fair Trade Cities and Towns International Conference, hosted by Drakenstein Municipality. She’ll explore how Fairtrade certification unlocks new market opportunities, boosts financial growth, and promotes sustainability for local farmers.

Building a robust and inclusive wine industry
In this episode, we’re joined by Rico Basson, chief executive officer of South Africa Wine whose mission it is to enable the wine industry to become more robust, transformed, agile and competitive.Part of that is to emphasise inclusivity and sustainability in its operations. Rico has been leading SA Wine since June 2023, following an impressive tenure as the executive director of Vinpro, the representative organisation for wine producers in South Africa.DISCLAIMER:The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SAWIPB. The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

Ep 460Maximise farm efficiency with production planning
Production planning is essential to optimise resource use, minimise waste, and ensure consistent yields. It helps farmers align their farming practices with market demands and seasonal variations, leading to improved profitability.Additionally, proper planning aids in managing risks like climate change and fluctuating input costs, ensuring sustainability in operations.In this episode, Nqaba Mfaxa, the junior production manager at Saratoga Fruit Estate, discusses the importance of market research, natural resource management, the technologies available for production planning and more.

Ep 459A chilli farmer’s guide to agro-processing success
In this episode, we highlight Mogamat Abrahams, a chilli farmer from the Western Cape, as we explore the world of chilli production and the benefits of agro-processing. Discover how farmers like Mogamat are maximising their yields by creating a diverse range of chilli-based products, from fresh and dried chillies to sauces, relishes, and even medicinal goods.

Zabion’s winning formula for diversification
In this episode, we speak with Zabion De Wee, a Free State livestock farmer who also grows sunflowers and watermelons.With an impressive diversification strategy that includes cattle, pigs, and poultry, Zabion shares some of the biggest lessons he's learned, the farming practices he swears by, and his ambitious plans to become the largest watermelon producer in the Free State.

Ep 458SA’s agricultural chemical phase-out: What farmers should know
In this episode, we delve into the phase-out of hazardous agricultural chemicals, specifically those classified under CMR 1A and 1B, known for their potential to cause cancer, genetic mutations, and reproductive harm. Roleen la Grange, regulatory manager at CropLife South Africa, and Chana-Lee White, agri-intel manager, discuss the details of these regulatory changes.They also unpack how the new regulations will impact South African farming practices, the process for seeking exemptions, and the alignment with international standards.

Mastering wine export with industry veteran Willem Hendricks
In this episode, we’re joined by Willem Hendricks, the owner and trainer at WH Consulting, who brings over 31 years of experience in the wine export industry. Willem's career includes roles at the Western Cape Department of Agriculture and various prominent wine-producing companies. Currently, he works as a production scheduler at a leading wine industry firm. With his extensive hands-on experience in wine logistics and production, Willem offers a deep understanding of the industry's complexities. He shares insights from his career and delves into the nuances of wine export and production.

Ep 457Tips on succeeding at livestock auctions
Livestock auctions can be daunting, especially for new-era farmers. To help you thrive in this critical aspect of agriculture, we’re joined by agricultural consultant Ndumiso Gule in our latest episode. Ndumiso shares invaluable tips on understanding legal requirements; financial preparation and budgeting; as well assessing animal health.Whether you are a seasoned farmer or new to the game, this episode is packed with insights to help you make informed decisions and succeed at livestock auctions.

Ep 456The hard work behind developing agricultural seeds in South Africa
In this episode, we sit down with Lukeshni Chetty, General Manager of the South African National Seed Organisation (SANSOR), to explore the intricate journey of agricultural seed development and the critical role it plays in agriculture.Discover the vital importance of research and development in the seed industry, and why it takes years of dedicated effort to bring a new seed variety to market. Lukeshni breaks down the process of cultivar trials and their contribution to ensuring the quality and performance of new seeds, followed by a deep dive into the seed production process, from the initial breeding phase to large-scale production.

Ep 455Tips to keep gestating cows healthy
Abortions in a herd can be frustrating for any cattle farmer. In this episode, Kenneth Malatji, animal health technician for Afrivet, provides valuable information and considerations for managing gestating cows and preventing pregnancy complications from occurring.

Corina's path to wine biotechnology and people development
In this episode, we’re excited to welcome Corina du Toit, a seasoned professional with an impressive background in the wine industry. With an MSc in Wine Biotechnology from Stellenbosch University, a Diploma Wine Course from the Cape Wine Academy, and a Level 3 Qualification in Wine from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET, UK), Corina brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation. Her career journey has taken her through various roles, from research to winemaking and marketing, with valuable international experience in Europe and the USA. Currently, she leads the Sustainable Development Impact Hub at Stellenbosch University, where she focuses on capacity building at the postgraduate level. Corina’s passion for the South African wine industry is clear through her contributions to the People Development aspect of secondary wine production. With her extensive expertise and dedication, Corina is making a significant impact on the future of South African wine. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SAWIPB. The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

Ep 454Voermol feeds boosts Mudau’s livestock health and market edge
In this episode, Emmanuel Mudau, a livestock farmer from Limpopo, reveals how Voermol Feeds transformed his farm. Facing high mortality rates among his Bosvelder sheep, Emmanuel found a solution with Voermol Sheep and Goat Protein Lick, as well as Voermol's Premix 450 for his cattle.Tune in to discover how Voermol Feeds gave Emmanuel a market edge and revitalised his farm.We’ll also hear from Dr Josef van Wyngaard of Voermol Feeds, who will explain why Voermol is the preferred choice for all things related to animal feed.

The power of soil, leaf, and water analysis in agriculture
In this episode, we delve into the role of soil analysis in agriculture with Werner Rossouw, technical manager for AECI Plant Health in the northern region. Werner examines how laboratory measurements of soil, leaf, and water samples offer crucial insights into their chemical and physical composition. We discuss the significance of understanding parameters such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, pH, and soil structure, and how these tests aid in optimising fertiliser application and enhancing crop yield.Werner also highlights the benefits of regular soil testing, including improved nutrient management, disease prevention, and environmental risk reduction.

Ep 453Introduction to digital farming in irrigation
Discover the benefits of automation, the evolution of irrigation technology, and insights into dosing systems, fertigation, and controllers.In this episode, Nickie Theron, Product Manager for Netafim, guide us through the world of digital farming within the context of irrigation.We explore how this technology transforms every aspect of farming. From the pumphouse to the greenhouse and beyond.

Letsitsa’s fields of happiness and commercial farming success
In this episode of Farmers Inside Track, we explore the story of Petrus Happy Letsitsa, a former financial advisor who swapped banking for commercial farming. Based in Welkom, Happy now farms 800 hectares of land, producing crops like maize meal, sunflower, and groundnuts.Join us as Happy shares how he grew his grain production from 250 tonnes to over 1 000 tonnes in just six years, offering insights into the strategies and innovations behind his commercial farming success.We’ll dive into his soil management and crop rotation practices, the influence of market price forecasting, and his experience working with major industry players such as South African Breweries and Senwes. Plus, hear how his background in finance helps him manage the business side of farming.Whether you're a seasoned farmer or new to agriculture, this episode offers invaluable advice on commercialising your farming venture.

Ep 452Boost rural communities through aquaculture
Rural community development is crucial to South Africa's broader socio-economic transformation.Discover how Roana EasyFarm, a youth-led initiative, is advancing local food security by integrating sustainable aquaculture with tilapia farming and crop production. By bringing aquaculture to rural communities, they are not only addressing food security but also fostering economic growth in these areas.

Nadia Heffer: Reviving old vines and ensuring wine farm sustainability
In this episode, we meet Nadia Heffer, who holds a BC in Viticulture and Oenology from Stellenbosch University and an MBA in responsible management from Audencia Business School in France. She specialises in developing strategic solutions for the wine and FMCG sectors, as well as in training and development. Nadia began her consulting career in 2018 and founded her own business, Hive Collective, the same year. The philosophy of Hive Collective closely reflects Nadia's belief that collaboration is crucial for personal fulfilment and business success. With a background in viticulture, experience in hospitality, and expertise in optimising tasting room operations, as well as serving as a brand ambassador for a well-known wine brand, Nadia is now involved in the Old Vine Project and other wine initiatives. DISCLAIMERThe views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SAWIPB. The information provided in this episode is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

Ep 451Young farmer supports farmers in effective storytelling
In a small Swiss hotel garden, with the Jungfrau mountains standing tall in the background, Michaela Sandmayr, a grain and crop farmer based in Austria, sits down to share her story with Food For Mzansi’s assistant editor, Duncan Masiwa.Though her heart belongs to her family’s farm in Austria, Sandmayr is not just farming; she is helping farmers do something they never thought they needed—better communicate their stories to the broader public and industry.

Ep 450Dive into drone technology
Agriculture remains a key driver and beneficiary of technological innovations. In this episode, we speak to Thulani Magida, the founder of Juta Agritech, who explores the specific uses, benefits, licensing requirements, and potential of drone technology to advance agricultural practices in South Africa.

Ep 449Ensuring compliance with pesticide disposal regulations
Join us as we delve into critical compliance issues under the National Environmental Management: Waste Act. This important legislation classifies pesticide containers and obsolete pesticides as hazardous waste, requiring stringent disposal protocols.In this episode, we speak with Dr Gerhard Verdoorn, operations and stewardship manager at CropLife South Africa, alongside compliance specialist Quade Sing Jam and stewardship specialist Hiresh Ramanand. They explain why these materials must not be burned or buried, emphasising the significance of recycling or incinerating them through licensed companies.Learn the correct procedures for handling empty pesticide containers, including recycling via CropLife SA’s certified network, and discover how to manage old pesticides safely.

Rising star: Ruth Faro's impact on South African wine industry
In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Ruth Faro, a seasoned veteran of the wine industry with nine years of experience. Faro’s journey has been a dynamic blend of challenges and successes, which have only strengthened her resolve and drive. Throughout her career, Faro has benefited from the guidance of invaluable mentors who have supported her growth. However, her dedication extends beyond her own career; she actively contributes to the industry’s advancement as a member of SAWIPB’s primary production department, where she plays a key role in recognising and elevating the contributions of long-standing industry professionals. With her unwavering passion for the wine industry and commitment to its advancement, Faro is set to make a significant impact on the future of South African wine.DISCLAIMER:The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SAWIPB. The information provided in this episode is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

Ep 448Farm safety: How to protect your agribusiness from cyber threats
In this episode, agritech entrepreneur Ziphezinhle Gabuza explores the critical topic of digital safety in agriculture. Learn about the most common digital threats facing modern farms, how to protect your agricultural data from cyber attacks, and best practices for integrating IoT devices securely. Whether you’re a farmer or involved in agribusiness, this podcast offers essential insights to safeguard your operations and stay ahead of emerging cyber threats in the agricultural sector.

Ep 447Agro-processing: Entrepreneur's tips for success
Agro-processing is a viable avenue to diversify a farming enterprise, increase profitability and build business resilience. In this episode, Selinah Ntjana, the founder of Selinah the Goat, shares how she successfully diversified her enterprise.

Jerid-Lee’s table grape farming success
In this episode, Jerid-Lee Warries, a seasoned farmer with over 12 years of experience cultivating table grapes in the picturesque Piketberg region shares stories about his early to becoming a successful farmer at Broodkraal Landgoed Middelpos. We dive deep into his motivations for venturing into table grape farming, how his methods have evolved over the years, and the innovative practices he employs that set his farm apart. He opens up about the unique challenges of farming in the Piketberg area, from the unpredictable climate to the financial hurdles that come with running a successful table grape operation.

Ep 446Borehole basics: Mastering water testing and compliance
It is important to ensure your farm’s water is safe, compliant and sustainable. In this episode of Farmer’s Inside Track, Dirk Moolman, a leading hydrogeologist, explores what farmers need to know about water testing and borehole management. From understanding when you need a water use license to the tools required for testing pH, electrical conductivity, and dissolved oxygen, Moolman shares advice on maintaining the quality of your farm’s irrigation water.

Edmund Terblanche's wine story and role as Shiraz Association chairman
Born and raised in the heart of the Swartland, Edmund Terblanche is a passionate winemaker now crafting exceptional wines at La Motte Wine Estate. After completing his agricultural studies at Stellenbosch University and a diploma in cellar technology at Elsenburg Agricultural College, Edmund honed his skills through international experience in France. As chairman of South Africa’s Shiraz Association, he’s a leading figure in the industry. Join us as we delve into Terblanche’s journey, from his early days to his influential role in shaping the future of South African wine. Discover how his unwavering dedication and global perspective have positioned him as a key player in the industry.DISCLAIMER:The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SAWIPB. The information provided in this episode is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

Ep 445Drip irrigation tips for small-scale farmers
In this episode, we delve into the value of drip irrigation for small-scale crop farmers and explore how this innovative solution can transform their farming practices. Martin Bahnemann, Netafim’s business developer for small-scale farming in South Africa and the SADC region, guides us through the benefits of drip irrigation. He also shares essential agronomic and maintenance principles and discusses how farmers can achieve optimal results in their fields.

Ep 444AECI Plant Health and Khula tackle innovation together
Tune in to learn how an innovative collaboration between AECI Plant Health and Khula is providing new-era farmers with cutting-edge solutions, expanding their market reach, and promoting sustainable farming practices.Jannie Willemse, business development manager for AECI Plant Health, joins us to discuss their strategic alliance with the agri-tech company Khula.

Ep 443Medicinal cannabis cultivation
The medicinal cannabis industry in South Africa has been evolving rapidly over the past few years, driven by legislative changes, increasing local and international demand, and investment interest. In this episode, Alec Yardley speaks about cannabis cultivation.

Behind the bottles: Ilse’s role in wine logistics and education
In this insightful video, we sit down with Ilse Ruthford, Managing Director at Compagniesdrift in Stellenbosch.Ruthford’s remarkable professional journey began in 1996 after completing a marketing course and other wine-related studies. She continues to nurture her passion for mentoring and advancing the next generation of wine professionals. Her expertise in the logistics sector of the wine industry enables her to play a significant role in the SAWIPB initiative. Ilse is dedicated to teaching and sharing her knowledge on effective wine distribution and systematic processes.The South African Wine Industry Professional Body (SAWIPB) was established to develop practitioners and support industry-related entities, ensuring social sustainability in the wine sector. DISCLAIMER:The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SAWIPB. The information provided in this episode is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

Ep 442How new seed varieties are created and approved
Making sure that farmers get their hands on a wide variety of high-quality seeds is no overnight success.Did you know creating a new seed variety can take up to 15 years? Yes, it is a lengthy and detailed process that involves trials, regulatory approvals, and several quality checks.In this episode, Dr Magdeleen Cilliers, projects and research officer at the South African National Seed Organisation (SANSOR), provides a comprehensive overview of the intricate process involved in seed availability, from initial research to final distribution.

Ep 441Choosing the right irrigation equipment
In today's agricultural landscape, precision, efficiency, and sustainability are more crucial than ever. With rising input costs, narrowing profit margins, and increasing food demand, farmers must utilise the right tools and technologies to succeed. However, when it comes to irrigation equipment, how do you know you've chosen the best tools for the job?In this episode of Farmer's Inside Track, we delve into the intricacies of drip irrigation with Hein van Graan, Netafim South Africa's branch manager in Nelspruit. Van Graan guides us through the essential features of drippers and driplines, explaining how these components can address common field challenges.He also discusses the various classes of drippers, their applications, and the critical factors farmers must consider — such as flow rate, spacing, and wall thickness — when selecting the right dripline for their needs.

Farming techniques powering Dean’s 100-tonne success
Dean Barnard, a crop farmer from George in the Western Cape, has been working alongside his father on Waboomskraal farm for 19 years, taking over operations eight years ago. The family farm, Oppie Plaas Boerdery, is one of only seven hops farms in Africa, exclusively supplying Castle and Castle Lite.Under Barnard’s leadership, the farm also produces plums, achieving remarkable yields, including a 2023 Autumn Treat plum harvest of nearly 100 tonnes per hectare.Since taking the reins, he has driven innovation with new irrigation technology and expanded their orchards and hops production.Tune in to hear how his passion for farming and his commitment to sustainable practices have made Oppie Plaas Boerdery a top contender in the agricultural industry.

Ep 440Tilapia farming: Building a profitable business
Aquaculture is a promising sector of South Africa with various expansion opportunities. In this episode of Farmer's Inside Track, David Fincham shares his years of expertise and insights on how to have a thriving tilapia enterprise. This includes general considerations for farmers looking to venture into the aquaculture industry.The sector's potential for sustainable resource use and its capacity to diversify farmers' income streams, make tilapia farming a valuable addition to the agricultural landscape.Fincham covers essential aspects such as understanding the biological needs of tilapia, managing water quality, ensuring proper nutrition and feed, and preventing disease.

Harnessing human capital to drive SA’s wine sector forward
In this insightful episode, we speak with Annelize Morkel, Managing Directorat Achieve Through Action. Annelize holds a Master’s in Commerce with aspecialisation in Leadership and Strategy and has over 12 years of experiencein the wine industry. She is actively involved in international academicdiscussions.As a scholar-practitioner, Morkel is dedicated to enhancing the wineindustry through education and professional development. She highlights thecrucial role of human capital in driving thriving economies and explores theholistic nature of the wine industry.Morkel also serves on the Wine Tourism and Marketing Committee at SAWIPB.She commends the organisation for its commitment to upskilling and empoweringindividuals, addressing market gaps, and advancing industry knowledge. Thisplatform plays a vital role in fostering growth and development within the winesector.The South African Wine Industry Professional Body (SAWIPB) was establishedto develop practitioners and support industry-related entities, ensuring socialsustainability in the wine sector.DISCLAIMER:The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of theindividuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy orposition of SAWIPB. The information provided in this episode is for generalinformational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

Ep 439Olerile’s cattle thrive on Voermol Feeds
If you ask Olerile Lekgetho about his secret to success, he'll tell you it's Voermol Feeds.In a special podcast series over the coming months, we'll explore how some of Mzansi's brightest young farmers are building their livestock herds with the help of a trusted ally — Voermol Feeds.Farmers like Olerile, who manages a flourishing 660-hectare farm in North West and specialises in breeding White Brahman and Bonsmara cattle, attribute part of their success to the strategic use of Voermol Dundee Lick Concentrate. We'll also hear from Dr Josef van Wyngaard from Voermol Feeds, who will explain why Voermol is the preferred choice for all things related to animal feed.

Ep 438Banana farming: Innovations, challenges and sustainability
In this episode, we chat with Tam Johnson, an animal scientist and sales and technical manager at a leading tissue culture laboratory.Tam joins us to explore the dynamic banana industry in South Africa. We'll focus on the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping banana farming today.

Ep 437All4YouthSSA: Nestlé youth leaders tackle innovation in food systems
In this special episode, we delve into the transformative power of youth in food systems with two remarkable guests from Nestlé.Comfort Tshisikule, youth, learning and development lead at Nestlé, and Thobeka Mzila, agriculturalist at Nestlé East and Southern African Region, are alumni of Nestlé’s graduate programme. They share insights into the All4YOUth Sub-Saharan Africa initiative and how it unlocks opportunities for young people.They also discuss the significance of this year’s International Youth Day theme and trends in transforming food systems and offer valuable advice to young people, among other topics.

Meet Brenton Maarman: A passionate wine educator
In this episode, we sit down with Brenton Maarman, a passionate wine enthusiast and dedicated educator. After completing his BSc, Maarman pursued an MSc and has since devoted himself to teaching as a lecturer at the Elsenburg Institution.Maarman is a member of the Primary Production Council at SAWIPB, with a remarkable journey in the wine industry that began at a barrel-making company. This experience allowed him to interact with wine owners and gain valuable mentors. Coming from a family of teachers, Maarman realised that his true calling lay in education. He has beautifully blended his passions for teaching and the wine industry in his role as a lecturer.Maarman’s story is nothing short of inspiring as he continues to impart knowledge to the next generation in viticulture and oenology at the Elsenburg Institution.Join us as we explore Maarman’s unique journey and his contributions to the world of wine and education.The South African Wine Industry Professional Body (SAWIPB) was established to develop practitioners and support industry-related entities, ensuring social sustainability in the wine sector.DISCLAIMER:The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SAWIPB. The information provided in this episode is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

Ep 436How indigenous practices shape agroecology
Agroecology combines ecological and social principles to create sustainable agricultural practices.In this episode, renowned agroecologist Professor Kingsley Ayisi from the University of Limpopo explores the significance of indigenous knowledge in modern farming. He delves into key agroecological practices such as intercropping, agroforestry, cover cropping, and vermicomposting.Tune in to hear Ayisi share valuable insights and practical advice on implementing these sustainable practices to enhance farming resilience and productivity.

Sydney’s intensive farming strategies propels crop success
In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Sydney Claassen, a dedicated farmer from Stellenbosch and the visionary behind Pinehaven. Claassen shares the story of how he got started in farming and the challenges he faced in setting up his seven-hectare farm.We explore the initial costs involved in establishing Pinehaven and how he financed these expenses. Claassen also highlights the key business decisions that have significantly contributed to Pinehaven's success and offers valuable insights into managing the financial aspects of farming, including budgeting, investing, and managing cash flow.

Ep 435Korn gives pap a deep-fried makeover
Pap is a staple, known for its versatility in flavours and textures. Willfried Korn, the founder of Pap2Go, has revolutionised this beloved dish by introducing a deep-fried version. His innovative pap-based meals are gaining popularity at farmers' markets and private events.In this episode, we learn about how the idea for Pap2Go started, his early experiments with pap and various tasty fillings, and his dreams for the future.

Ep 434Unlocking the secrets of honey with Dr Janais Delport
In this episode, we explore the intricate science of pollen analysis in honey with Dr. Janis Delport, a melissopalynologist from the University of Cape Town.Dr. Delport has investigated the botanical and geographical origins of Cape honey, and her objective is to develop methods for authenticating the distinct Fynbos and Succulent Karoo honeys in South Africa.

Petri de Beer: The economics guru of the wine sector
In this episode, we feature Petri de Beer, a passionate advocate for the future of agriculture and sustainable farming. He is a senior agricultural economist at Vinpro and the founder of Houwater Agricultural Services. De Beer brings a wealth of expertise and knowledge to the table. When he is not focused on economics or running his own business, he is an academic working towards his PhD in Agricultural Economics at Stellenbosch University.The South African Wine Industry Professional Body (SAWIPB) was established to develop practitioners and support industry-related entities, ensuring social sustainability in the wine sector.DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SAWIPB. The information provided in this episode is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.