• Cattle management: Tips on dehorning, disbudding cattle
    Dec 23 2024

    In this episode, experienced livestock farmer and animal scientist Ashell Maenetja shares his expert advice on dehorning and disbudding cattle.

    Discover practical tips on the optimal timing, methods, and aftercare to ensure humane practices, healthier livestock, and improved profitability.


    From pain management to hygiene and fostering collaboration within the farming community, Maenetja provides actionable insights every farmer should know.

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    19 mins
  • Transporting pesticides: What every farmer needs to know
    Dec 18 2024

    In this episode, we dive into the critical topic of transporting crop protection products safely and responsibly. South African farmers play a vital role in complying with the National Road Traffic Act, which regulates the transportation of dangerous goods, including pesticides.

    Hiresh Ramanand, Stewardship Specialist, and Quade Sing Jam, Compliance Specialist, both from CropLife South Africa, share key insights to help farmers navigate these regulations.

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    12 mins
  • Born to farm: A 21-year-old farmer’s life on the land
    Dec 16 2024

    In this episode of Farmers Inside Track, we meet Kagiso Munaka, a 21-year-old young farmer who has been farming since the age of 11 and knows no other way of life.

    On his 21-hectare farm, he grows green mielies and buffelgrass and runs a poultry operation with a capacity of over 1,200 broilers and layers per production cycle. But that's not all, Kagiso also manages over 200 hectares for other farmers.

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    17 mins
  • Palesa's brave fight: Battling hazardous substances in our townships
    Dec 12 2024

    Dive into the gripping story of Palesa’s Brave Fight Against Deadly Poisons with the powerful audio version of this must-read booklet. Immerse yourself in the journey of Palesa, a girl who brings the realities of exposure to hazardous chemical substances to life, blending education and storytelling in a way that’s both compelling and informative.

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    9 mins
  • Repo rate basics: What every farmer should know
    Dec 9 2024

    Farmers in South Africa face unique financial challenges, especially in managing loans and investments.

    The cost of credit plays a critical role in farming operations, making it essential to understand the repo rate and its impact on interest rates for sustainable farm management.


    Agricultural economist Buhle Dube from the National Agricultural Marketing Council offers valuable insights on this crucial topic.

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    19 mins
  • Drip irrigation tips for small-scale farmers
    Dec 4 2024

    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.

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    20 mins
  • Building a dairy empire from 20 to 2 000 cows
    Dec 2 2024

    In this episode we sit down with Barry Schiever, co-owner of Foundation Farm, a family-run dairy in Weenen, KwaZulu-Natal.

    From humble beginnings with just 20 cows in 1990, the Schiever family has built a thriving operation, now caring for nearly 2 000 cows and supplying top brands like Nestlé, Douglasdale, and Dairyland.

    Barry shares the journey of grit, perseverance, and family unity that turned their small start into a flourishing enterprise.

    We dive into the challenges they faced, their innovative strategies for herd management, and the role of technology in ensuring their farm’s success.

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    16 mins
  • Cape honeybee, a ‘rock star’ in world of science
    Nov 25 2024

    In this episode we focus on the role of honeybees, particularly the unique Cape honeybee, in sustaining South Africa’s agriculture and ecosystems.

    Host Dawn Noemdoe leads a conversation with two honeybee experts: Chris Nicklan, chairperson of the Western Cape Bee Industry Association, and Mike Allsopp, Senior Researcher at the Agricultural Research Council.


    They discuss the alarming global decline in bee populations and its implications for farmers, food security, and the environment.

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    38 mins