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Du Toit Wessels: “If you can dream it, you can do it”

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Du Toit Wessels se lewensreis is ‘n inspirerende verhaal van deursettingsvermoë, passie en leierskap. Gebore in 1959 in Heidelberg, Kaap, het hy van jongs af ‘n liefde vir sport, veral rugby, en ‘n sterk band met sy gemeenskap ontwikkel. Ná sy skoolloopbaan aan Hoërskool Heidelberg en twee jaar militêre diens, het hy sy akademiese reis voortgesit aan die Universiteit Stellenbosch, waar hy ‘n B Agric Admin-graad voltooi het.

Met ‘n diepgewortelde passie vir landbou het hy sy loopbaan op die familie-plaas begin, waar hy 15 jaar lank ‘n belangrike rol in die boerderygemeenskap vervul het en ‘n beduidende bydrae tot die plaasgemeenskap gelewer het. Oor hierdie tyd sê hy: “Ek sluit dan aan by my pa se plaas, maar in 1998 verkoop ons die grond as gevolg van die grootte van die plaas, droogtes asook ‘n sloerende grondeis wat soos ‘n swaard oor ons koppe gehang het.” Hy het verskeie leierskapsrolle beklee, insluitend Voorsitter van die Heidelberg Boerevereniging (6 jaar), Direkteur van Sentraal Suid Koöperasie (6 jaar), Lid van die Wintergraan Produsente Organisasie (4 jaar), President van die Heidelberg Skou (5 jaar), SWD Rugby Keurder (4 jaar), en in 1996 gekies as Raadslid tot Agri Expo, waar hy ook vir 4 jaar as President gedien het. Sy leierskap en toewyding het hom gevestig as ‘n invloedryke figuur in die landbousektor.

‘n Nuwe Rigting: Graanbedryf en Bemarking

In 2000 het Du Toit en sy gesin die moedige besluit geneem om na Moorreesburg te verhuis, waar hy ‘n nuwe hoofstuk in sy loopbaan begin het. Hy het waardevolle ondervinding in die graanhandel opgedoen, eers by BKB en later by Unigrain en Moorreesburg Koringboere Koöperasie. Hier het hy ‘n diepgaande begrip ontwikkel van SAFEX en die komplekse waardeketting van die graanbedryf, die verhandeling van graan en het hy waardevolle kennis opgedoen rakende die hele graanbedryf, veral die wintergrane.
Sy passie en kundigheid het hom in 2012 na Graan SA gelei, waar hy as bemarker in die Wes-Kaap gewerk en beduidende groei in die sektor bewerkstellig het.

Met die opening van ‘n kantoor in die Paarl, het hy ‘n span saamgestel wat beide kommersiële en opkomende boere ondersteun het. Sy verbintenis tot die vooruitgang van die landbousektor het hom in 2017 na Pretoria geneem, waar hy vir vyf jaar as bestuurder van NAMPO Bothaville ‘n beduidende bydrae gelewer het. Onder sy leiding het hierdie landbou-ekspo rekordgetalle besoekers en uitstallers gelok, wat sy vermoë om groot projekte te bestuur, bewys het.

‘n Visie Word ‘n Realiteit: NAMPO Kaap

Een van die grootste prestasies in Du Toit se loopbaan is die totstandkoming van NAMPO Kaap. Met sy visie en deursettingsvermoë, en saam met sleutelvennote soos Neil Giliomee, Jannie de Villiers, destydse CEO van Graan SA, en Henk Aggenbach, het hierdie ekspo vinnig gegroei tot die grootste landbou-ekspo in die Wes-Kaap. Sy dryfkrag en innovasie het gehelp om ‘n platform te skep waar boere en rolspelers in die bedryf kan netwerk en vooruitgang bevorder.

Du Toit Wessels is ‘n toonbeeld van leierskap en volharding. Sy leuse, “If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It,” weerspieël sy lewenspad – ‘n bewys dat drome werklikheid kan word met harde werk, visie en ‘n onwrikbare toewyding aan ‘n visie en doelwit wat met passie en vasberadenheid nagestreef word.

Aartappelmot-moniteringsprojek brei landwyd uit

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’n Langtermyn aartappelmot-moniteringsprojek in die Sandveld het oor agt jaar soveel sukses getoon dat dit nou na die noorde van Suid-Afrika uitgebrei word.

Aartappelmot (Phthorimaea operculella) is ‘n moeilike plaag om te beheer en kan beduidende  ekonomiese verliese vir aartappelboere veroorsaak. Tog het Sandveld-boere langtermyn-sukses behaal in die bestuur van hierdie plaag, danksy hierdie innoverende projek en die samewerking tussen InteliGro en Syngenta.

Die Sandveldse aartappelmot-moniteringsprojek het in 2016 ontstaan toe InteliGro ‘n netwerk van aartappelmot-lokvalle ontplooi het. Hierdie lokvalle bevat ‘n spesie-spesifieke feromoon wat manlike motte lok en vang, en sodoende aan produsente ‘n vroeë waarskuwing gee van toename in die mot-bevolkingsdruk.

“Vernuf, data en deurdagte bestuur van die motbevolking het oor die lang termyn merkwaardige resultate vir die boere in die Sandveld gebring,” sê Stefan Steenekamp, tegniese bemarkingspesialis, wat aan die hoof staan van InteliGro se nasionale aartappelstrategie.

“Tydens weeklikse besoeke aan produsente teken ons lokvalvangste aan van beide aartappelmot en tamatieblaarmyner (Phthorimaea absoluta, vroeër bekend as Tuta absoluta) op elektroniese platforms genaamd Cropwise en CropWatch. Die data word ge-analiseer, en die gesamentlike interpretasie van lokvalvangste, fisiese moniteringsdata en weer-inligting maak dit moontlik om meer akkurate voorspellings van mot-uitbrake te maak en beter strategieë vir oesbeskerming te ontwerp.”

BOER MET MINDER PLAAGDODERS EN MEER KUNDIGHEID

Stephan & Seun Boerdery, ‘n bekende familieboerdery in die Sandveld, het van die begin af aan InteliGro se aartappelmot-moniteringsprojek deelgeneem en merkbare verbeteringe opgemerk.

“Ons is baie tevrede met InteliGro se plaagmonitering van aartappelmot en P. absoluta  op ons lande,” sê Johan Stephan. “Hul gereelde en noukeurige velddata help ons om die optimale skedulering van plaagdoders te bepaal. Dit spaar kostes, verminder die aantal spuite wat ons toedien en voorkom skade. Hierdie diens gee ons gemoedsrus en help ons om opbrengs te verbeter.”

Steenekamp beklemtoon dat InteliGro ‘n geïntegreerde plaagbestuurstrategie volg, wat chemiese en biologiese oplossings met verbouingspraktyke soos bewerking en besproeiing kombineer. “Ons wil volhoubare boerdery ondersteun en klimaatsuitdagings pro-aktief aanspreek. Hierdie program bevorder beide ekonomiese voordele en ‘n kleiner omgewingsvoetspoor, wat aartappelboerdery vir toekomstige geslagte verseker.”

VOLHOUBAARHEID VERG SAMEWERKING EN INNOVASIE

Alhoewel Suid-Afrika net 1% van die wêreld se aartappels produseer, glo Steenekamp dat die gewas beduidende potensiaal het om uit te brei. “Aartappels is ‘n voedsame basiese voedingsbron wat ‘n belangrike rol in voedselsekuriteit en die stryd teen armoede kan speel.”

Suid-Afrika is in ‘n ideale posisie om verbruikers heeljaar van vars aartappels te voorsien, met ongeveer 52 000 hektaar aartappels wat jaarliks aangeplant word. Dit sluit die Sandveld in, waar aartappels heeljaar verbou word, terwyl ander provinsies seisoenaal produseer.

“Om volhoubaar te boer in droëland- en besproeiingsgebiede, moet ons omgewingsuitdagings soos klimaatsverandering, siektes en insekplae oorkom. Klimaatsfaktore soos temperatuur en humiditeit beïnvloed die lewensiklus van insekte direk,” sê Steenekamp. “Die bedryf het voorheen tot ‘n groot mate op produkte staatgemaak wat nou as CMR (karsinogenies, mutagenies en reproduktiewe ontwrigters) beskou word: hierdie tipe produkte word egter nou uitgefaseer, wat die hoeveelheid beskikbare hulpmiddels beperk. Dit is waar innovasie noodsaaklik is, en waar InteliGro met ander bedryfsorganisasies saamwerk om alternatiewe te vind.”

RESULTATE LEI TOT UITBREIDING NA DIE NOORDE

Die sukses van die Sandveld-projek lei nou tot ‘n loodsprojek in die Verre Noorde van Limpopo. InteliGro werk saam met Aartappels Suid-Afrika (ASA) en Metos SA om motlokval- en weerstasiedata te kombineer in ‘n projek wat produsente sal help met pasgemaakte spuitprogramme na gelang van die aartappelmotbevolking in die omgewing.

“Ons ervaring oor die afgelope agt jaar beteken dat ons nou ons geïntegreerde plaagbestuur kundigheid met produsente in ander aartappelproduksie-areas in die land kan deel,” sê Steenekamp. “In die toekoms sal InteliGro deur die kombinasie van historiese data en weervoorspelling selfs nog meer akkurate aanbevelings kan maak.”

RAAK BETROKKE

InteliGro se Gewasadviseurs bied pasgemaakte oplossings vir elke plaas.

Belangstellende boere kan Steenekamp kontak by +27 66 472 3994 of [email protected].

 

Fruit South Africa Announces Major Leadership Changes to Strengthen Industry Vision

Fruit South Africa (Fruit SA) has announced significant leadership changes within its Board of Directors, effective 1 April 2025. These appointments signal a new chapter for the organisation as it looks to deepen its strategic focus and leadership capacity in championing the country’s fruit industry.

At the forefront of this transition is the appointment of Mr Anton Rabe as the new chairperson of the board. Mr Rabe, a long-standing figure in the agricultural sector, succeeds Mr Anton Kruger, who has served as chairperson since April 2023. While Mr Kruger steps down from the chairpersonship, he will remain active within Fruit SA as a board director, continuing his contribution to the industry’s development.

Supporting Mr Rabe in the organisation’s top leadership structure is Mr Derek Donkin, who has been appointed as vice chairperson. The new leadership duo brings a wealth of experience and strategic insight, positioning Fruit SA to navigate an evolving agricultural landscape and respond to both domestic and global challenges affecting the fruit sector.

Mr Rabe acknowledged the significance of this leadership transition, stating, “These transitions mark a significant milestone for Fruit SA. Since its formal registration, we have not experienced such a substantial shift in leadership at one time. This change presents a unique opportunity to build upon the organisation’s successes and to drive Fruit SA forward as a unified voice for the South African fruit industry.”

Tributes and New Talent Mark a Transformational Moment

The leadership reshuffle also includes the departure of two long-serving board members, whose contributions have been central to Fruit SA’s growth and influence. Mr Justin Chadwick, a founding director and the outgoing Chief Executive Officer of the Citrus Growers Association (CGA) of Southern Africa, retired from the board on 31 March 2025. His 25-year leadership in the citrus sector and early role in shaping Fruit SA’s direction earned him widespread respect across the industry.

Joining him in retirement is Ms Vangile Titi-Msumza, who has served on the board since 2017. As one of Fruit SA’s longest-serving directors, her commitment and leadership in promoting industry equity and inclusion are widely celebrated. The organisation has expressed its deep appreciation to both individuals for their invaluable service and enduring legacies.

In the wake of these departures, Fruit SA has welcomed three new directors who are expected to bring fresh energy and expertise to the board. Dr Boitshoko Ntshabele, the newly appointed CEO of CGA, joins alongside Ms Jacqueline Maisela and Ms Jenetha Mahlangu. With strong backgrounds in government and industry roles, these new appointments are aligned with Fruit SA’s mission to foster a competitive, equitable, and sustainable fruit sector.

The new directors will serve alongside Dr Nompumelelo Obokoh, bringing the number of independent directors on the board to three. This diverse and strategically experienced group is expected to play a critical role in shaping the next phase of Fruit SA’s growth and influence in both local and international markets.

With this renewed leadership team, Fruit SA is poised to advance its advocacy, innovation, and impact as the collective voice of South Africa’s fruit industry.

South Africa’s Premier Wine tourism Conference Returns in May

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The Wine Tourism Conference, South Africa’s leading event dedicated to the advancement of wine tourism, will return for its ninth edition on 8 May 2025. Hosted at the esteemed Lanzerac Wine Estate in Stellenbosch, the conference will explore the theme ‘Delivering Experiences That Inspire.’

Bringing together industry leaders, tourism professionals, and wine enthusiasts, the event seeks to showcase innovative practices and strategies shaping the future of wine tourism. Among the notable speakers are Robin Shaw from Wine Tourism Australia, Jerry Mpufane of The Moreti Partnership, Debra Fox of Fox Brown Creative, Marisah Nieuwoudt from SA Wine, and Andrew Kamphuis of Commerce 7. Their insights are expected to provide valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of wine tourism.

Catalyst for Growth and Innovation

The conference serves as a significant platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and industry growth. Discussions will revolve around emerging trends, sustainability in wine tourism, marketing strategies, and the enhancement of visitor experiences. Delegates will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with experts, explore potential partnerships, and gain a deeper understanding of global best practices.

The role of wine tourism in boosting South Africa’s economy and positioning the country as a top-tier destination will be a key focus. Stellenbosch, regarded as the heart of the nation’s wine industry, offers a fitting backdrop for this prestigious event, allowing participants to experience the region’s renowned hospitality and rich winemaking heritage firsthand.

This conference is an essential event for professionals aiming to stay ahead in the competitive world of wine tourism. It promises to offer valuable insights, inspire innovation, and contribute to the continued success of South Africa’s wine tourism industry.

For more information visit www.winetourism.co.za

A Toast to Excellence: 2025 Durbanville Sauvignon Blanc Makes Its Grand Debut

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Finally, it’s here! The highly anticipated release of the 2025 Durbanville Sauvignon Blanc from Cape Town’s Northern vineyards has been signed off. Now, you can be among the first to taste this exceptional creation produced by a 10-winery collaboration in South Africa’s leading region for Sauvignon Blanc at an exclusive soirée on May 9.

Tickets to the annual showcase of South Africa’s cool climate champion sell out fast, so early booking is essential.

This is the fourth year that the eagerly awaited Durbanville Sauvignon Blanc has been made in a region famous for its cool climate that allows for the optimal development of fruit. Since 2022 when the collaboration to create a South African super Sauvignon Blanc began, the best fruit from farms across the valley were combined with winemaking talents to create the wine.

As with the previous year, fruit was received from Diemersdal and De Grendel as well as Bloemendal, D’Aria, Durbanville Hills, Groot Phesantekraal, Klein Roosboom, Maastricht, Meerendal and Nitida. The responsibility for compiling the final blend has been shared over the years, and once again fell this year to Diemersdal, which has been internationally recognised for its outstanding prowess with the variety.

“This year may very well be one of the best we’ve experienced,” says Diemersdal’s Thys Louw.

Winemaker Juandré Bruwer, who oversees the blend with Mari Branders, agrees: “This vintage truly excites me,” he says. “It’s one of those rare years where everything has aligned perfectly.”

Underscoring the quality of the 2025 Durbanville Sauvignon Blanc is a ream of awards achieved by the region’s producers in the past year alone. These include five stars at Platter’s South African wine guide for 2023 vintages of Diemersdal The Journal and Wild Horseshoe Sauvignon Blanc; Bloemendal Suider Terras 2018; Groot Phesantekraal Marizanne 2023 and Nitida Coronata Integration 2023.

Two regional wines were included in the country’s Top 10 Sauvignon Blancs – the Diemersdal Winter Ferment Sauvignon Blanc 2024 and Maastricht The Contour Sauvignon Blanc 2023 (wooded). While at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles’ South Africa Selection, Klein Roosboom’s Limited Release Sauvignon Blanc 2023 clinched one of only four Grand Gold medals awarded.

Wineries that featured in the top echelon of award-winners at the Michelangelo International Wine and Spirit Awards last year were Durbanville Hills, which was named Top Producer, as well as Nitida, De Grendel and D’Aria. At the IWSC (International Wine and Spirit Competition), these were Diemersdal and De Grendel again.

Notably, Groot Phesantekraal’s André Brink was named Provincial and National Farmer of the Year by the Agricultural Writers SA (AWSA).

More Than a Wine—A Symbol of Community

In terms of the 2025 Durbanville Sauvignon Blanc, Juandré says the collaboration is what makes Durbanville so special. “It’s testament to a dedicated and progressive community open to sharing knowledge and support, and which I’m proud to be a part. This wine embodies everything Durbanville, from the soils and personalities to the values we stand for.”

Hallmarks of the latest vintage were typical for the making of another record-breaking wine. The season was defined by steady ripening, naturally high acidity and low pH. Harvest produced above-average yields and wines that showed remarkable flavours, characterised by a blend of minerality, tropical fruit, and subtle greenness.

As has become tradition, the new vintage of this particular wine is to be welcomed at a time when Sauvignon Blanc lovers around the world celebrate the variety on International Sauvignon Blanc Day, this year on May 2.

Details for the Sauvignon Blanc Soirée

Date and time: 9 May, 17:00 – 20:00

Venue: Cassia, Nitida Wine Estate

Price: R250 pp

Book on Quicket: https://qkt.io/Y5zHZP

In addition to tasting the 2025 Durbanville Sauvignon Blanc, guests will get to enjoy a selection of Sauvignon Blanc Top 10 wines, compliments of Sauvignon Blanc SA. Each ticket includes tastings from 10 Durbanville wine farms, two arrival canapés by Cassia Restaurant, and live music by Gerry Liberty.

The 2025 Durbanville Sauvignon Blanc sells for R120/bottle and is available for purchase from the participating wineries.

For more information about Durbanville Wine Valley, visit www.durbanvillewine.co.za or send an email to [email protected].

From Wijnappels to World Markets: Celebrating 363 Years of South Africa’s Apple Industry

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On April 17, 363 years ago, the seeds for one of South Africa’s most significant agricultural industries were sown—quite literally. On 17 April 1662, Dutch Governor Jan van Riebeeck made a humble, but historic diary entry in the Company Gardens in Cape Town:

“Heavy drizzle in the morning and a strong north-westerly wind blowing in from the sea. Today the first two ripe Dutch apples were picked in the Company’s nursery garden… This type of apple is known as a Wijnappel.”

This moment marked the birth of the South African apple industry, now a cornerstone of the country’s agricultural economy. Each year on April 17, Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing, South Africa’s largest apple and pear marketer, commemorates this milestone—honouring the roots of an industry that feeds the world and sustains thousands of local livelihoods.

From two apples to a global industry

Those first apples, Wijnappels picked from a tree just 1.5 metres tall, may have seemed modest in size—but they were the start of something extraordinary. Today, South Africa is one of the Southern Hemisphere’s top apple exporters, with apples grown in regions such as the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and even Limpopo.

According to Henk Griessel, Tru-Cape’s Quality Assurance Manager and co-author of Early Apples at The Cape, April 17, 1662, is a date every South African apple grower should remember.

“It’s where our story began. The fact that Tru-Cape continues to preserve older varieties in our Heritage Orchard at Oak Valley Estate in Grabouw shows our commitment to honouring the past while preparing for the future.”

South Africa
The South Africa apple industry turns 363 on April 17. The first two Wittewijn apples were harvested in Cape Town’s Companies Garden on this date in 1662 – a moment that seeded an industry now exporting nearly 50 million cartons of apples each year. Image: Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing

As the single largest marketer of apples and pears from Ceres Fruit Growers and Two-A-Day Group, Tru-Cape is at the forefront of this dynamic sector. With a grower base representing more than 20% of the country’s apple exports and supplying 105 markets with South African apples, Tru-Cape is instrumental in opening new markets, ensuring fruit quality, and driving innovation from orchard to export terminal.

“Tru-Cape’s role goes far beyond marketing—we’re involved in everything from cultivar innovation, quality assurance, and sustainability to investing in market access and technology that improves traceability and efficiency,” says Roelf Pienaar, managing director of Tru-Cape.

“The birthday of our industry is a reminder of the legacy we’re entrusted with—and the future we’re building.”

A modern industry: Opportunities and challenges

South Africa’s apple industry remains a vital economic driver – supporting thousands of jobs, generating export revenue, and contributing significantly to food security. The country’s apples are enjoyed across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe, America, Canada and Mexico, with new market access to countries like Thailand promising even greater expansion.

Yet the industry also faces serious challenges. Climate change is reshaping growing conditions, prompting a wave of innovation in varietal development, irrigation, and crop protection. Logistical bottlenecks, including port inefficiencies and transport constraints, continue to test growers and exporters. Rising input costs and regulatory changes (such as the EU’s Green Deal) demand smarter, more sustainable farming practices.

Despite this, the South African apple industry is evolving rapidly—embracing technology, data-driven farming, and international collaboration to secure its future.

Honouring the past, growing the future

As Tru-Cape celebrates the 363rd anniversary of that first apple harvest, it’s clear that this is more than just a birthday—it’s a reminder of how far the industry has come and how much promise lies ahead.

“From two apples to close to 50 million cartons exported each year, the story of South African apples is one of resilience, innovation, and growth,” says Roelf. “We’re proud to carry that legacy forward, one apple at a time.”

Celebrate with us!

On April 17, we invite all South Africans to bite into a fresh, locally grown apple and reflect on over three centuries of dedication, growth, and innovation in our fruit industry.

Let’s raise a toast (or a crunch!) to every grower, picker, packer, and partner who made this legacy possible.

Join the celebration online by congratulating the industry on social media, and remember to tag @TruCape in your posts. Use the hashtag #AppleDaySA or #HappyBirthdaySAAppleIndustry.

For more information, please contact Lucille Botha at [email protected] or visit www.tru-cape.com. Follow Tru-Cape on X (@TruCapeFruit), Facebook (@Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing), TikTok (@trucape), and Instagram (@trucapefruit).

Suid-Afrika se hart klop in Bothaville van 13 tot 16 Mei 2025

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Van 13 – 16 Mei 2025 gaan Nampo Park buite Bothaville weer die tuiste wees van die grootste landbouskou in die Suidelike Halfrond. Dit is die 57ste aanbieding van die ikoniese Nampo Oesdag wat vanjaar die tema “Globale Landbou, Plaaslik!” dra – ’n gepaste boodskap vir ‘n sektor wat al hoe meer wêreldgebonde raak, maar steeds sterk plaaslik geanker is.

Agtergrond en Groei

Die Nampo Oesdag is sedert 1967 ‘n hoeksteen van die Suid-Afrikaanse landboukalender. Wat begin het met 200 produsente op ‘n plaas buite Bloemfontein, het gegroei tot meer as 920 uitstallers wat nou hul produkte en dienste oor 40 ha van Nampo Park ten toon stel. Dit is meer as net ’n uitstalling – dit is ’n dinamiese sakeplatform waar tegnologie, kennis en kommersiële interaksie saamvloei.

Vir produsente: kennis, netwerk en oplossings

Nampo 2025 is veel meer as net ‘n uitstalling – dit is ’n strategiese platform waar boere toegang kry tot die jongste tegnologie, kundigheid en oplossings wat direk in hul boerderypraktyke toegepas kan word. Met meer as 920 uitstallers kan produsente self gaan kyk wat werk, pryse vergelyk en reguit met kundiges praat wat oplossings bied.

Produksiespesifieke areas soos die Yara-beeskompleks, BKB-skaapkompleks en die TAU Veevoer-arena verskaf waardevolle insigte in stamboerdery, wolklassifisering, skeertegnieke en voedselaanvullings. By die Nasie in Gesprek-reeks kan produsente waardevolle insig verkry deur na kenners te luister wat gesels oor kwessies soos verkiesings, marktoegang en landbou-ondersteuning, en dit bied ook die geleentheid om te netwerk met ander rolspelers in die bedryf. Of jy kom om navorsing te doen, aankope te beplan, inspirasie te kry of met ander in gesprek te tree – Nampo bly die eenstopgeleentheid vir elke ernstige produsent in Suid-Afrika.

Wat is nuut?

Vanjaar is daar ‘n paar opwindende toevoegings tot die program:

KamersMakers: In ’n spesiale area van 200 m² op die terrein maak die gewilde KamersMakers vanjaar vir die eerste keer sy verskyning by Nampo. Hier sal keurig saamgestelde produkte – van handgemaakte kuns en dekor tot leefstylitems – aangebied word. Uitstallers vorm deel van hierdie unieke ervaring en sal hul stalletjies in dié area oprig.

Graan SA Museum: Die museum word aan die westekant van die terrein opgerig en neem besoekers op ’n reis deur die geskiedenis en groei van Nampo en Graan SA.

Plaaskombuis: Die gewilde Syngenta Boerekos Plaaskombuis is groter en lekkerder, met disse saamgestel deur Arina du Plessis en voorberei deur The Roots Academy. Van platbrood met gepluiste beesvleis tot varknekburgers – dis ‘n kulinêre fees.

Woonwapark: Naby Hek 2 is daar nou ’n moderne woonwapark met 100 kragpunte en twee ablusiegeboue – ideaal vir besoekers wat langer wil bly.

Hoogtepunte

Vroueprogram: Gehou langs die teetuin, met optredes, inspirasie en kosdemonstrasies van bekende persone soos Amore Bekker, Carli Pienaar, Ewan Strydom en sjefs soos Nadine Vosloo.

Nasie in Gesprek: ’n Reeks paneelgesprekke oor sleutelkwessies in landbou word aangebied, waar kenners en besluitnemers perspektief bied oor uitdagings en geleenthede in die sektor. Onderwerpe sluit in verkiesings, landbou-ondersteuningsdienste en veerkragtigheid tydens verandering. Bekendes soos Waldimar Pelser, Wandile Sihlobo en Moeletsi Mbeki neem deel.

Uitstallings en demonstrasies: Van Standard Bank se 4×4-baan tot Dry Ice se vriesbrand-demonstrasies, sowel as die veekomplekse vir bees en skaap waar besoekers lewendehawe kan sien en leer oor wolhantering en skeertegnieke. Volgens dr. Dirk Strydom, uitvoerende hoof van Nampo, bied die geleentheid aan produsente toegang tot wêreldkennis en oplossings wat direk op Suid-Afrikaanse omstandighede toepasbaar is. “Dis waar globale idees plaaslik wortel skiet.”

Besoekersinligting

Digitale hulpmiddels: Die Nampo 2025-toep help besoekers om hul ervaring te beplan, stalletjies op 3D-kaarte te verken en selfs video’s te kyk van wat by uitstallers aangaan. Die toepassing is beskikbaar vir aflaai op jou selfoon en bied ook roetebeskrywings, parkeerinligting en toegang tot die volledige program.Nampo 2025 beloof weer om nie net die grootste, maar ook die mees betekenisvolle bymekaarkomplek vir die plaaslike landbougemeenskap te wees.

Kaartjies is vanaf April aanlyn beskikbaar by OpenTickets met afslag vir voorafbesprekings. Die hekke is daagliks van 07:00 tot 17:00 oop.

Vir meer inligting besoek www.nampo.co.za

South Africa’s Agricultural Sector Gains Breathing Room as U.S. Tariff Pause Opens Opportunities

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South Africa’s agricultural exporters are catching a break after the US paused steep tariffs on 9 April 2025, dropping the rate from 30% to 10% for 90 days. With the rand firming and markets ticking up, this window offers a chance to rethink trade strategies and secure gains—here’s how.

A Temporary Reprieve: From 30% to 10%

South Africa’s tariff was 30%, a steep rate initially imposed alongside a 10% baseline tariff on all US imports under President Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” announcement on 2 April 2 2025. Effective 9 April, this 30% “reciprocal” duty targeted key exports like citrus, wine, grapes, fruit juices, and nuts, jeopardising South Africa’s $23 billion trade relationship with the US, its second-largest partner. Trump’s 90-day pause, declared on 9 April 2025, at 4 PM EDT (10 PM SAST), suspends that 30% tariff for all countries except China (now at 125%), reverting South Africa’s exports to the 10% baseline. While AGOA’s zero-duty access isn’t restored, this rollback offers vital relief as the export season approaches.

Economic Relief and Strategic Opportunities

Wandile Sihlobo, Chief Economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz), sees promise in the change. “The 90-day breather from the 30% tariffs will be a welcome development for South African agriculture and offers room for constructive conversation that would be valuable for long-term agricultural trade with the U.S.,” he said. The US, absorbing 4% of South Africa’s $13.7 billion agricultural exports in 2024, remains crucial for products like citrus and wine. At 10%, South Africa now aligns with competitors like Chile and Australia, regaining some footing. This pause also frees up space to explore growth in markets like China—where South Africa holds just 0.4% of a $200 billion agricultural import market—and the Middle East.

Rand’s Response and Market Upturn

The tariff pause has already rippled through South Africa’s markets. On 9 April , the rand traded weaker at around R19.75 against the dollar before the announcement, reflecting tariff fears and political jitters. Post-announcement at 4 PM EDT (10 PM SAST), it strengthened to R19.27 by day’s end, signalling market relief as the tariff burden eased.

Today, 10 April 2025, at 11:05 AM SAST, the rand stands at R19.31, a slight dip from yesterday but a marked improvement from its intra-week low of R19.93 earlier this week. Markets are gradually getting better, with the rand’s recovery and a 3.2% surge in the Top 40 Index at today’s open reflecting cautious optimism as traders eye South Africa’s next moves in US trade talks over the 90-day period.

Government’s Next Steps

The 90-day pause means South Africa will need to renegotiate with the US to address the 10% tariff, which still erodes AGOA benefits set to expire in September 2025, and the separate 25% tariffs on steel, aluminum, and autos that continue to impact vehicle exports worth $2 billion annually. The government is expected to use this period to seek exemptions or a new trade framework, while also looking to bolster regional trade within the Southern African Customs Union as a fallback.

How Exporters Can Benefit

South African exporters can turn this pause into progress:

US Market Retention: The 10% tariff matches competitors, helping producers hold US demand as the season nears. Locking in orders now could ensure volumes.

Negotiation Leverage: This window allows South Africa to push for AGOA renewal or tariff relief, underscoring its reliability as a US supplier.

Diversification Push: With time to manoeuvre, exporters can target unsaturated markets like China, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, where demand for quality produce offers growth potential.

A Chance to Reset

The 90-day tariff pause turns a looming setback into a tactical opening. The 10% tariff, AGOA’s expiration, and global volatility linger as challenges, but South Africa’s agricultural sector can use this period to shore up US trade, negotiate effectively, and diversify strategically. With markets showing gradual improvement and July 8 as the deadline, proactive steps will shape how well the industry capitalises on this shift.

Woolworths Mascarpone Reigns Supreme Among 1,100 Entries at SA Dairy Awards

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A mascarpone, crafted by RFG Foods in Simondium, was crowned the 2025 Dairy Product of the Year at the prestigious South African Dairy Awards on Tuesday 8 April 2025 at Eensgezind outside Durbanville.

The winning mascarpone with fig and pecan nuts, made especially for Woolworths by RFG Foods, was one of a record-breaking 1110 dairy products from 77 manufacturers that competed in the 2025 SA Dairy Championships, the biggest and longest-running dairy competition in Africa.

A panel of 103 expert judges representing 47 companies adjudicated the entries over three days. A total of 114 products received SA Champion awards as class winners, while 30 products were honoured with the prestigious Qualité mark, the only mark of excellence in the South African dairy industry (see the full list of crème de la crème below).

“Being awarded Product of the Year in a competition of this calibre is the ultimate accolade for any dairy producer,” says Graham Sutherland, chief judge of the SA Dairy Championships. “This rich, sweet, and indulgent dessert cheese stands out for its harmonious blend of fig and pecan nuts with smooth mascarpone. It creates a dreamy flavour experience and leaves a lasting impression.”

Robert Sudell, Operations Manager of RFG Foods, says their team is incredibly proud to win Product of the Year for the second time in three years.

“Italian cheeses have been a speciality at RFG Foods for many years,” says Sudell. “Our artisanal cheese team, led by Kerwick Boonzaaier, are true experts, crafting cheese that are some of the best in the world. We also congratulate Agri-Expo on the 192nd SA Dairy Championships and their ongoing support of innovation and excellence.”

Breyton Milford, General Manager of Agri-Expo, the host of the competition since 1834, says the SA Dairy Championships showcases exceptional South African dairy products, celebrating their diversity and quality, as well as the industry’s economic contribution.

According to Milford, this year’s record number of entries and results reflect an innovative industry and healthy competition between large manufacturers and small-scale entrepreneurs. “Congratulations to Fair Cape Dairies for winning six Qualité awards; Lactalis South Africa with four; Fairfield Dairy with three; Dalewood Fromage, Fairview, Klein Rivier Cheese, Ladismith Cheese and Lancewood, each with two; and all other deserving winners.”

SECOND GAME CHANGER AWARD CELEBRATES YOUNG TALENT

Agri-Expo honoured 31-year-old Pamella Dzindikwa, head of production at Puglia Cheese, with the second annual Hollard Game Changer Award and a cash prize of R50 000. Dzindikwa has been part of the award-winning Puglia Cheese for the past nine years. She began her career as a cleaner and rose through the ranks by mastering cheesemaking, contributing significantly to Puglia’s success as a household brand.

Photographer: A Gorman Photography

Milford says the Hollard Game Changer Award recognises young professionals already making a meaningful impact. “It serves as both recognition of their achievements and motivation to continue their pursuit of excellence.”

INDUSTRY COLLABORATION SHAPES THE FUTURE

“A project of this scale would not be possible without the support of our partners,” says Milford. “We thank our platinum partners IMCD South Africa and dsm-firmenich; diamond partners Novonesis and SIG; gold partners Woolworths, Synercore, Condio, Hollard, Checkers, IFF, Orchem, and the Western Cape Department of Agriculture; silver partners Pick n Pay and Mane; and bronze partners AGRANA Fruit and Nutrochem.”

Linda Segalla of IMCD added: “IMCD South Africa is honoured to support the SA Dairy Championships, reflecting our ongoing dedication to innovation, quality, and progress in the industry. We remain committed to empowering the dairy sector with cutting-edge solutions and expertise, helping to shape a future of excellence.”

Click here for the full results, and for more information call 021 863 1599 / 083 440 1628, or email [email protected].

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Join the conversation on social media with #SADairyChamps #SADairyAwards @AgriExpo1

THE 2025 QUALITÉ WINNERS – THE ONLY MARK OF EXCELLENCE IN THE DAIRY INDUSTRY 

The Qualité Mark, the dairy industry’s sole mark of excellence, is reserved for select products of exceptional quality that have achieved a specific minimum score on the international scorecard. The product securing the highest score is crowned Product of the Year.

FAIR CAPE DAIRIES (6)

  • Fair Cape Dairies Chocolate Mousse
  • Fair Cape Dairies Low Fat Mixed Fruit Yoghurt
  • Woolworths Fresh Custard with Vanilla Bean Seeds
  • Woolworths Passion Fruit Cheesecake Mousse Dessert (Honourable mention for second place overall)
  • Woolworths Chocolate Mousse
  • Woolworths Double Cream Lemon Curd Yoghurt

LACTALIS SOUTH AFRICA (4)

  • Parmalat Salted Butter
  • Président Mature Gouda – 6 months
  • Président White Cheddar – 6 months
  • Woolworths Yellow Cheddar – 6 months

FAIRFIELD DAIRY (3)

  • First Choice Low Fat Peach & Apricot Flavoured Dairy Snack
  • SPAR Double Cream Plain Yoghurt
  • Woolworths Organic Fat Free Chunky Plain Cottage Cheese

DALEWOOD FROMAGE (2)

  • Dalewood Fromage Wineland Brie Cape Chilli
  • Dalewood Fromage Lanquedoc – 10 weeks

FAIRVIEW CHEESE COMPANY (2)

  • Fairview Chevin Black Pepper & Paprika
  • Woolworths Raspberry Roulade with Pink Peppercorns

KLEIN RIVER CHEESE (2)

  • Babylonstoren Cultured Butter – Garlic & Parsley
  • Woolworths Oak Smoked Stanford

LADISMITH CHEESE (2)

  • Ladismith Salted Butter
  • Ladismith Unsalted Butter

LANCEWOOD (2)

  • Lancewood Medium Fat Smooth Cottage Cheese with Chives
  • Pick n Pay Matured Cheddar – 6 months

DEWFRESH – Salted Butter

DUTCH GOAT FARM – Sheep’s Gouda (Honourable mention for third place overall)

FARM HILL DAIRY – Full Cream Smooth Cottage Cheese

FOXENBURG ESTATE – Chèvre – Chakalaka

LA MONTANARA – Woolworths Halloumi Kebabs

RFG FOODS – Woolworths Mascarpone with Fig & Pecan Nuts (SA Dairy Product of the Year)

WOODLANDS DAIRY – First Choice Low Fat Strawberry Flavoured Milk

Transnet Unveils Major Upgrade with 47 New RTGs at Cape Town Container Terminal

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The Cape Town Container Terminal (CTCT), operated by Transnet Port Terminals, is undergoing a significant transformation with the arrival of the first batch of 28 state-of-the-art rubber-tyred gantries (RTGs). This development marks a pivotal step in the terminal’s ongoing efforts to enhance operational efficiency and meet the growing demands of South Africa’s maritime trade sector as of 8 April 2025.
First Batch of Advanced RTGs Arrives
The initial consignment of 28 RTGs, supplied by Liebherr, a globally recognized leader in port equipment manufacturing, has been successfully offloaded at the terminal. These new machines come equipped with advanced features designed to improve performance and resilience. Notably, the RTGs boast anti-sway technology, which ensures greater precision during cargo handling, and can withstand wind speeds of up to 90 kilometres per hour—a critical capability given Cape Town’s often blustery conditions. Liebherr, as the original equipment manufacturer, is overseeing the delivery, with the assembly and commissioning process now underway. Transnet estimates that this phase will take up to five months, after which the RTGs will be fully integrated into the terminal’s operations.
Phased Delivery to Enhance Capacity
This upgrade is part of a broader equipment rollout for the CTCT. An additional nine RTGs are slated to arrive in August 2025, followed by a final batch of 10 in November 2025. Once complete, the terminal will have a total of 47 new RTGs, significantly bolstering its capacity to handle container traffic. This phased delivery schedule reflects Transnet’s strategic approach to minimising disruptions while progressively modernising the facility.
Addressing Past Challenges
The introduction of these RTGs comes at a crucial time for the Cape Town Container Terminal, which has faced challenges related to operational inefficiencies and equipment reliability in recent years. Transnet’s investment in cutting-edge machinery aligns with its broader recovery plan, which aims to revitalize South Africa’s port infrastructure and restore its competitiveness in global trade networks. The CTCT, a key gateway for exports and imports in the Western Cape, is expected to see improved turnaround times and increased throughput as a result of this upgrade.
Liebherr’s Role in Modernization
Liebherr’s involvement underscores the project’s scale and ambition. Known for its high-quality cranes and port equipment, the manufacturer’s partnership with Transnet signals confidence in the terminal’s future. The collaboration highlights a targeted effort to enhance container stacking and movement efficiency—critical components of port productivity.
Looking Ahead
As assembly progresses over the coming months, stakeholders in the shipping and logistics sectors will be watching closely to see how these improvements translate into real-world performance. The full deployment of the RTGs by late 2025 is poised to position the Cape Town Container Terminal as a more reliable and efficient hub, supporting economic growth in the region and beyond. For now, Transnet’s commitment to modernisation is clear, and the arrival of the first RTGs marks a promising milestone in the port’s evolution.