Farmer's Inside Track

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Indigenous vegetables are key to sustainable farming. By integrating cowpea and amaranth, farmers can enhance soil health, preserve biodiversity, and improve nutrition.In this episode, Dr. Buhlebelive Mndzebele from the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) discusses his study on intercropping cowpea and amaranth and how it tackles significant issues such as population growth, limited land, and climate challenges.  The methods of his study focus on indigenous vegetables as well as intercropping as sustainable practices.

Good quality irrigation water is crucial for the health of your crops and the longevity of irrigation equipment. In this episode, Dexter Neethling, product manager at Netafim South Africa, talks about declining water quality and the vital role of filtration and standards in agricultural irrigation. He also shares information on how water quality is classified and its impact on filter selection, what farmers should know about managing water quality and more.

In this episode of Farmers Inside Track, we delve into the critical role of thermometers in livestock management. Accurate monitoring of animal body temperature is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of your herd. Ernest Makua, livestock technical advisor at Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS), provides essential information on how a thermometer delivers precise and consistent readings. He also guides you on how to use a thermometer effectively. 

In this episode, we meet Oursula Lenee, a dedicated Viticulturist at Laborie. Oursula joined KWV in December 2016 as an Assistant Viticulturist, but her ambition to work at KWV began during her student days at Stellenbosch University. While pursuing her BSc in Viticulture and Oenology, Lenee gained experience at KWV’s Wine Emporium as a tasting assistant and tour leader. It was during this time that her confidence and passion for wine flourished, solidifying her decision to pursue a career in the wine industry. She shares her inspiring journey, highlighting her roles and accomplishments within the wine sector. She delves into the reasons behind her choice to specialise in viticulture, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs she has encountered along the way. 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.

Many farmers believe that quality crops start with quality seeds. But what exactly makes a seed "quality"?In this episode, powered by the South African National Seed Organisation (Sansor), we delve into the essential characteristics of high-quality seeds and their significance in modern agriculture.We chat with Kobus van Huyssteen, technical manager at Sansor, who sheds light on the key attributes that determine seed quality and why it's crucial for farmers.Van Huyssteen shares his insights on South African farmers' access to quality seeds, how evolving consumer preferences shape the focus on seed quality, and what the future holds for our agricultural sector.

In this episode, we speak with Dr Didi Claassen, the general manager of Afrivet Training and Technical Services. She provides crucial updates on the impact of rabies on production animals and shares valuable insights on how farmers can protect their livestock.Claassen discusses everything from the early symptoms of rabies in livestock and how farmers can identify them, to specific farm factors or conditions that increase the risk of rabies outbreaks, recommended vaccination schedules, and more.

Sizo Tshabalala, a man of grand ambitions, is also a prominent farmer. As a first-generation poultry farmer on communal land in Elukwatini, Mpumalanga, he manages a flourishing enterprise known as Tshabalala Farming. In this episode, we hear from Tshabalala who operates on a 10-hectare farm, with his pride and joy being a layer house that can accommodate 15 000 birds. Starting with little more than determination and a clear vision, Tshabalala’s dedication has turned his humble beginnings into a substantial and thriving business.

In this episode, wildfire consultant manager from the Winelands Fire Protection Association, Dale Nortje, joins us to discuss practical measures farmers can implement to mitigate the risk of damage and loss due to veld fires. He covers topics such as the use of firebreaks, land legislation, protocols, infrastructure, and safe zones. Tune in as Nortje provides valuable insights for farmers following veld fire warnings in various parts of the country.

In this insightful episode, we sit down with winemaker and viticulturist Sandile Mkhwanazi. Sandile emphasises the importance of teamwork for the betterment of South Africa's wine industry. He is part of the primary production council in the South African Wine Industry Professional Body (SAWIPB), focusing on the raw material and viticultural side of the industry. His role in SAWIPB is to upskill the workforce, ensuring they obtain qualifications that are recognised throughout the wine industry. 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 as professional advice.

Ostrich farming is a significant industry in South Africa, offering extensive opportunities both locally and internationally.In this episode, Kabelo Lekalakala of Pitso Ostrich Farm in the North West provides essential insights on selecting an ideal location for ostrich farming, necessary infrastructure requirements, effective feed practices, and more.

As a leader in precision irrigation since 1992, Netafim's innovative technologies and services empower producers to boost productivity while minimising resource use. Discover how real-time data and automation optimise water use, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability. In this episode, we delve into transformative advancements in tree crop irrigation with Charl van Reenen, Agronomy Manager at Netafim South Africa.He discusses the pivotal shift towards precision irrigation, emphasising the integration of real-time data and automation to optimise water use, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability in agriculture. 

Goodwill Mbenyane is a renowned farmer and agribusiness expert with a wealth of knowledge and experience in sustainable agriculture. In this episode, we explore the intricacies of his farming operations, the innovative techniques he uses to enhance productivity, and the strategic decisions that have shaped his successful career.

Hold on to your seats South Africans. We have a new agricultural minister! The agricultural sector has welcomed DA leader, John Steenhuisen, as its newly appointed minister of agriculture.In this episode, we dive into the buzz surrounding his appointment, the priorities he aims to tackle in his new position, and more.

In this episode of the South African Wine Industry Professional Body (SAWIPB) series, we meet Peter Pentz, who obtained his degree in communications and pursued a career in communications, working alongside leading corporate wine brands. Peter shares how his background in communications has been crucial in steering the wine business through challenging times and how leveraging digital strategies has unlocked new opportunities for growth and customer engagement. Discover the intersections of passion, technology, and tradition in the wine industry with Pentz. His experiences and insights offer valuable lessons and inspiration for professionals across various sectors. 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

In this episode, we discuss the vital topic of humane treatment and slaughtering of small livestock.Discover best practices, regulatory standards, and recent advancements in the field with special guest, Jeremiah Jothams, executive director of operations, Basadi Agribusiness, specialising in poultry agro-processing.Whether you’re a farmer, industry professional, or simply interested in ethical farming practices, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won’t want to miss!

Genetic testing is at the forefront of modern dairy farming, promising transformative advancements in productivity, health, and sustainability. As technology continues to evolve, so too does its application in agriculture.In this episode, Dr Simon Lashmar, an esteemed researcher specialising in animal breeding and genetics at the Agricultural Research Council, shares his expertise on genetic testing in dairy cows. 

Have you ever wondered who’s behind South Africa’s agricultural seed quality standards? Meet the South African National Seed Organisation (Sansor), the national designated authority for seeds in the country. Sansor was established in 1989 and is dedicated to safeguarding, growing, and advancing South Africa’s seed industry. In this episode, we chat with Dr Lukeshni Chetty, general manager of Sansor, who provides an in-depth look at how South Africa’s seed industry is structured, their organisation's mission, and its pivotal role in the seed industry.

Dr Karien O'Kennedy, a knowledge and transfer manager at South African Wine, holds a BSc in biochemistry and microbiology. In this episode of the South African Wine Industry Professional Body (SAWIPB) series, we learn how she began her journey in the wine industry as a laboratory technician. Over the years, her roles have evolved from technical consultant to communications, leading to her current position at South African Wine. Dr O'Kennedy shares valuable insights into the skills needed to pursue a career in the wine industry. With this ever-evolving field and emerging technologies, there are numerous opportunities for those looking to explore and grow within South Africa's 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.

In this episode of our Farmer Mentor series, we sit down with Karabo Mahlaba, co-owner of Mahlaba Eagles Farming in Reitz, Free State. Their 300-hectare farm founded in 2012 by Karabo's grandfather, Samson is called Hoekieplaas.There, they cultivate grain and soybeans on a commercial scale. They also have cattle sold on auction or to abattoirs. In the episode we learn about Mahlaba Eagles Farming’s decision-making process and crop rotation schedule.

Rotational grazing systems offer significant benefits for pasture health and livestock productivity. By allowing grass time to recover between grazing periods, these systems maintain robust plant growth and prevent soil degradation.In this episode, we explore the benefits of rotational grazing systems and their impact on pasture health and livestock productivity. We also examine stocking rates, pasture recovery periods, and the overall sustainability of rotational grazing for different types of livestock.

Have you ever worried about your livestock eating something harmful? Dr Asive Luningo is a guardian angel for farmers everywhere.As a clinical assistant toxicologist at the University of Pretoria's faculty of veterinary science, Luningo is at the forefront of protecting livestock from the hidden dangers in seemingly ordinary plants.In this episode, she shares tips on how you can safeguard your livestock from poisonous plants, best practices for minimising handling mistakes and more. 

The cannabis industry in South Africa is undergoing rapid growth, driven by substantial legislative changes and burgeoning investment opportunities.The country has made significant strides in integrating cannabis into its economy, particularly in the medicinal sector.Thapelo Machaba, an agricultural economist and policy analyst at Agbiz, joins us to delve deeper into these developments.