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Foot and Mouth Disease: Minister Steenhuisen Updates the Nation

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Foot and Mouth Disease: Minister Steenhuisen Updates the Nation

On 1 September 2025, Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen announced important progress in the fight against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). He confirmed that the Eastern Cape, which suffered serious outbreaks in 2024, has not reported any new cases this year. The Disease Management Area in the province was officially lifted on 4 July 2025, though final testing of quarantined farms continues. Limpopo, another former hotspot, is also free of outbreaks, with restrictions lifted at the same time.

The Minister credited this success to the “dedication and partnership” of farmers, veterinary services, and agricultural organizations who ensured compliance with strict quarantine and movement controls.

Provinces Remaining Free of Disease

Both the Northern Cape and the Western Cape remain completely free of FMD. Steenhuisen stressed that this status is fragile, and depends on farmers and livestock owners rigorously following movement restrictions and biosecurity requirements. “Infection is most often spread through livestock movement,” he said, “and producers must play their part in keeping these provinces safe.”

Scale of the Current Outbreaks

Despite progress in some regions, the national situation remains serious. As of today, South Africa is grappling with 274 unresolved outbreaks:

  • KwaZulu-Natal: 180
  • Gauteng: 54
  • North West: 26
  • Mpumalanga: 9
  • Free State: 5

The disease has spread across all farming systems, from commercial beef and dairy herds to feedlots and communal cattle. In KwaZulu-Natal, the outbreaks have continued to spread westward, with confirmed cases in Dundee, Dannhauser, Newcastle, Alfred Duma, Okhahlamba, uMshwathi, eDumbe, and eMadlangeni municipalities. Transmission into Mpumalanga earlier this year was linked to an auction in February.

Vaccination Efforts Strengthened

To combat these outbreaks, the Department of Agriculture procured 900,000 vaccine doses from Botswana, worth R72 million. Half of these doses arrived in June and were used in six provinces, while the remaining 400,000 arrived just over a week ago. Of these, 50,000 doses have already been distributed, with the rest directed specifically to outbreak areas in the Free State, Mpumalanga, North West, and Gauteng.

Looking ahead, a domestic vaccine production facility is set for commissioning in March 2026, with an annual capacity of 150,000–200,000 doses.

Bosberaad: Building a Resilient System

In July, a major Bosberaad brought together over 400 stakeholders from government, research, and industry. Delegates rejected declaring FMD endemic, warning of devastating trade and economic consequences. Instead, they endorsed combining stronger existing controls with the Progressive Control Pathway (PCP)—a step-by-step plan to restore South Africa’s FMD-free status.

Immediate actions include scaling up vaccine production, improving livestock identification and traceability, expanding diagnostic capacity, running awareness campaigns, and pursuing legal reforms and sustainable funding. Longer-term plans involve infrastructure investment, regional cooperation, and consistent support for veterinary research.

Industry–Government Task Team

Steenhuisen confirmed the formation of an Industry–Government Task Team on animal disease prevention and control. It will include leading veterinarians, researchers, and industry representatives. The task team will advise value-chain roundtables and ensure coordination across provinces and farming sectors.

A Call for Farmer Responsibility

The Minister ended with a stern warning. Reports of farmers moving or secretly treating sick cattle are “deeply concerning and irresponsible,” he said. Such actions break the law and risk cementing FMD as endemic in South Africa.

“All livestock farmers must cooperate with veterinary officials, report suspected cases immediately, and refrain from moving animals showing clinical signs,” Steenhuisen emphasized. “Biosecurity is everyone’s responsibility. Only through collective discipline and cooperation can we secure the future of South Africa’s livestock industry.”

Equestrian Thrills Await at NAMPO Cape 2025: South Africa vs Australia in Tentpegging Showdown

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Equestrian Thrills Await at NAMPO Cape 2025: South Africa vs Australia in Tentpegging Showdown

Visitors to NAMPO Cape 2025, taking place from 10–13 September at Bredasdorp Park, are in for a thrilling experience as the Western Cape Lubricants Arena transforms into a stage for world-class equestrian excitement.

Tentpegging: South Africa vs Australia

The highlight of this year’s programme is the international tentpegging test between South Africa and Australia, with contests featuring the national team, women’s team, and an under-21 team. This daring sport, rooted in trust and precision between horse and rider, involves striking ground and aerial targets with lances and swords at full gallop. Riders will compete over three days:

  • 10 September – Lance events
  • 11 September – Sword events
  • 12 September – Relay: Rings and Oranges

With deep agricultural roots, tentpegging continues to thrive as a sport in which up to 80% of riders hail from farming communities.

Mounted Games: A Test of Speed, Precision and Control

Prepare to be captivated as Mounted Games brings dynamic flair to NAMPO Cape 2025. From Wednesday, 10 September to Friday, 12 September, between 09:00 and 10:00, a talented group of South African riders will demonstrate this high-octane equestrian sport that demands split-second agility and absolute coordination between horse and rider.

NAMPO Cape 2025

Often described as the decathlon of equestrian disciplines, Mounted Games blends the speed of a racehorse, the turning agility of a cutting horse, and the responsiveness of a seasoned stock horse. Riders must navigate tight turns, rapid hand-offs, and intricate obstacles with remarkable control.

On Saturday, 13 September, local riders will seize the spotlight in a spirited competition – showcasing not only talent, but the camaraderie and horsemanship that define this fast-growing sport across South Africa.

Mounted Archery: Power in Precision

Be transported through time as Griffin’s Horse Archery riders demonstrate the ancient discipline of horseback archery. Galloping at full speed while striking targets with unerring accuracy, these riders embody the perfect synergy between man, animal, and tradition. A must-see for history buffs, archery lovers, and anyone captivated by the graceful intensity of equestrian sport.

More to Explore

  • The Western Cape Lubricants Arena also offers charming and educational experiences throughout the event:
  • Ikahan Quistador Friesian Horses – Regal performances from one of South Africa’s premier Friesian studs
  • Bredasdorp Black Horses – Local excellence on show
  • Donkiedam Miniature Donkeys – Delightful miniatures for all ages
  • Pony Rides for Children – Gentle fun for young visitors

NAMPO Cape 2025

Whether you are drawn by athleticism, tradition, or family fun, the equestrian programme at NAMPO Cape 2025 promises unforgettable moments and world-class horsemanship. For more information about NAMPO Cape 2025, visit www.nampocape.co.za,

Tickets available online at www.ticketpros.co.za

R100 per adult (online)

R110 per adult (at the gate)

R50 per child (at the gate)

Free entry for preschool children

Historic Turning Point for South Africa’s Pesticide Policy Framework

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Historic Turning Point for South Africa’s Pesticide Policy Framework

In a landmark moment for agricultural reform and environmental justice, the National Department of Agriculture last week hosted the first-ever Colloquium on Pesticide Policy Framework. The event brought together government departments, farmer associations, scientists, civil society, industry, labour, farmworkers, and human rights organisations in an unprecedented dialogue on pesticide policy reform.

Modernising Outdated Laws

The colloquium marks a serious effort to modernise South Africa’s pesticide governance, particularly the outdated Farm Feeds, Fertilizer, and Agrochemical Remedies Act 36 of 1947. It aims to move toward a unified, science-based, and socially accountable system. Central to this is implementing the 2010 Pesticide Management Policy, which has remained dormant for 15 years, and adopting a One Health approach—integrating human, animal, plant, and environmental health in pesticide risk assessments.

“For the first time in history, civil society was not merely in the room, but at the table,” said Anna Shevel, coordinator of UnPoison.

Civil society and rights groups such as Women on Farms and the Human Rights Commission joined the discussions, alongside academics, medical experts, and other specialists.

Broad Representation from Industry and Government

Industry and farming groups including CropLife, the South African Bioproduct Organisation (SABO), GrainSA, Hortgro, and the Citrus Growers Association also participated. They were joined by the Departments of Agriculture, Health, Environment, and Labour, highlighting the need for interdepartmental coordination to address overlapping mandates and legislative gaps.

Clear Commitments from Government

The Deputy Director-General of Agriculture, Dipepeneneng Serage, closed the colloquium with firm commitments:

  • Public access to the national pesticide registration database within two weeks.
  • Revival of an interdepartmental committee to strengthen governance.
  • Formal adoption of the One Health framework.
  • Expanded capacity in the registration office, including skills for evaluating biological products.
  • Bans on pesticides already prohibited internationally.
  • Development of sustainable financing for the registration office.
  • Greater transparency and inclusion of farmworkers and civil society in consultations.

For decades, the Department has faced criticism for bureaucratic inertia and regulatory capture. But Professor Leslie London of UCT welcomed the change: “The transparency, willingness to acknowledge past mistakes and intent to reorganise give us hope for meaningful change.”

The colloquium followed years of campaigning and crises, including Women on Farms’ fight against EU pesticide double standards, UnPoison’s advocacy for reform, the 2021 UPL chemical disaster, the UN’s 2023 report on toxics, the 2024 Naledi child pesticide deaths, and mounting global pressure to ban hazardous chemicals. The EU’s Green Deal, with stricter residue limits, added urgency.

Future-Proofing Agriculture

Shevel stressed that reform is not about dismantling agriculture but future-proofing it: “Our shared commitment is to a win-win-win path forward, where agriculture flourishes, communities are protected, and ecosystems are restored.”

The replacement of a “prehistoric” Act from the 1940s, she concluded, marks not only a turning point in pesticide policy but also in democratic participation and government accountability.

CapeWine 2025 Showcases South Africa’s Finest

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CapeWine 2025 Showcases South Africa’s Finest

Wines of South Africa (WoSA) is thrilled to announce that CapeWine 2025 – the country’s largest and most prestigious wine trade show – is just around the corner. Taking place from 10–12 September 2025 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), this flagship triennial event will once again showcase the depth, diversity, and innovation of South African wine to an international audience.

For the first time, DHL Express and Hillebrand Gori – a company of DHL – have stepped up as headline sponsors, underscoring their commitment to supporting the global growth of South African wine.

Theme: Our Warmest Welcome

The theme, Our Warmest Welcome, reflects the heart of the South African wine industry. It’s not only about the exceptional wines, but also about the people behind them. CapeWine invites trade professionals, media, and enthusiasts from around the globe to:

CONNECT: Build meaningful relationships over conversation, shared meals, and a glass of wine.

BE INSPIRED: Experience South Africa’s reputation for quality, diversity, and innovation in winemaking.

SHARE STORIES: Meet winemakers, farmers, and sommeliers, and exchange stories that embody the spirit of the Cape Winelands.

A Milestone Year

First hosted in 2000 with just 100 exhibitors, CapeWine has grown into a showcase of over 400 producers, representing all of South Africa’s dynamic wine regions. This tenth edition marks a significant milestone: 25 years since the inaugural event.

“This tenth edition of our flagship trade event promises to be one of the best yet. The show has evolved to reflect the true essence of the South African wine industry: our phenomenal wines, our wonderfully warm people, and our spectacular landscapes. I look forward to welcoming trade from around the world to what will be an unforgettable experience,” says WoSA CEO, Siobhan Thompson.

What to Expect

Beyond the trade floor, attendees will enjoy immersive experiences that highlight South Africa’s terroir, culture, and hospitality. From discovering rare grape varieties to exploring regional wine styles, CapeWine offers more than just tastings—it’s an invitation to experience the Cape in all its richness.

Delegates from over 60 countries are expected, making it a prime opportunity for networking, storytelling, and promoting South African wine on the global stage. The show runs daily from 10:00 to 17:00.

For more information visit www.capewine2025.com

Broken Roads, Broken Food Chain: South Africa’s Rural Crisis

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Broken Roads, Broken Food Chain: South Africa’s Rural Crisis

South Africa’s agricultural heartland, the backbone of national food security and rural livelihoods, is being strangled by collapsing rural road networks. This is not just a matter of potholes and inconvenience. It is a systemic threat that raises food prices, weakens farm businesses, and erodes the very foundations of the country’s food chain.

Roads That Carry a Nation’s Food

A 2022 AgriSA survey underscores the scale of the crisis. An overwhelming 94% of farm produce in South Africa travels by road. Every bag of maize, every box of fruit, and every load of fresh vegetables must move from farm to market over crumbling asphalt. These roads are no longer reliable arteries of commerce, but obstacles that choke efficiency and push costs ever higher.

The Hard Numbers

The AgriSA report laid bare the cost of neglect:

Crippling Costs: Farmers spend, on average, over R200,000 annually repairing vehicles damaged by poor roads. Across the sector, that translates into billions of rand drained away from investment and growth.

Revenue Losses: Of the 311 farmers surveyed, 309 reported serious operational challenges. On average, farms lose about 16% of turnover directly due to failing roads — through delays, mechanical breakdowns, and inflated fuel bills.

Farmers as Road Crews: With government slow to respond, nearly 70% of farmers reported taking road repairs into their own hands. Tractors and shovels meant for fields are now patching potholes.

Threat to Food Security: The consequence is clear. Higher transport costs flow through the value chain, leaving consumers with rising food prices and lower-quality produce that arrives late or spoiled.

These figures make one thing undeniable: South Africa’s rural roads are not just broken — they are breaking farms, families, and futures.

Promises of Repair

There are glimmers of progress. Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen recently highlighted a pilot project in the Free State, led jointly by AgriSA, the Agricultural Business Chamber (Agbiz), and government. The initiative focuses on repairing critical farm-to-market routes.

“This collaboration is a testament to the power of public-private partnerships,” Steenhuisen said. He is right: these partnerships are essential. Farmers and agribusiness bring local knowledge and urgency, while government has resources and mandate. Together, they can target the routes most vital to keeping food flowing.

Yet a single pilot is not enough. Experts warn that without a scaled, nationwide program, rural communities will remain trapped in a cycle of repairs, losses, and declining competitiveness.

The Bigger Picture

The consequences of inaction stretch far beyond potholes and transport delays. Rural roads are lifelines. They connect farmers to markets, children to schools, workers to jobs, and patients to clinics. When they collapse, so do the prospects of rural South Africa.

For small-scale and emerging farmers, the crisis is especially devastating. Margins are already razor thin. An extra R200,000 in road-related costs can spell the difference between survival and failure. If these farmers collapse, the country loses not only food producers, but also the promise of a more inclusive agricultural economy.

A Call That Cannot Be Ignored

Fixing South Africa’s rural roads is not simply a matter of convenience. It is about keeping food affordable, sustaining jobs, and protecting the nation’s food security. The AgriSA report is more than a survey — it is a warning flare.

Every day of delay drives up costs, weakens farms, and pushes more rural communities into crisis. South Africa cannot afford to keep patching over the problem. It must rebuild — with urgency, with commitment, and with a vision of rural roads as the true arteries of a healthy, thriving nation.

When roads fail, the food chain fails. And when the food chain fails, the nation suffers.

Wees Wild, Wees Voorbereid, Wees Wildebees

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Wees Wild, Wees Voorbereid, Wees Wildebees

Die boer van vandag is ‘n strateeg, werktuigkundige, veearts, omgewingskenner, en ekonoom – bowenal: ‘n avonturier. Elke sonsopkoms bring nuwe uitdagings. Vir hom is betroubare, duursame en gemaklike kleredrag noodsaaklik. Dis hier waar die Wildebees-klerehandelsmerk sy merk maak – ‘n trots Suid-Afrikaanse handelsmerk wat soos ‘n tweede vel pas vir diegene wat die buitelewe ten volle aanpak.

Jou Tweede Vel

Net soos sy naamgenoot, die wildebees, is hierdie klerereeks ontwerp vir oorlewing en deursettingsvermoë in ruwe omgewings. Die wildebees is bekend vir sy onverbiddelike gees, sy vermoë om lang afstande af te lê, en sy aanpasbaarheid. Hy is taai en vindingryk. Hierdie eienskappe word perfek weerspieël in die Wildebees-klere. Net soos ‘n wildebees se vel hom beskerm teen die elemente, bied Wildebees-kledingstukke ongeëwenaarde beskerming en duursaamheid. Hulle is vervaardig van robuuste materiale soos ripstop, wat skeurweerstand bied teen die strawwe van daaglikse plaaswerk. Versterkte stikwerk en praktiese ontwerpe beteken hierdie klere is gebou om te hou.

Wildebees-produkte is ontwerp vir Suid-Afrika se uiteenlopende klimaat. Hul reeks sluit alles in van liggewig tot warm pofbaadjies, sodat die boer voorbereid is vir enige weer. Vir die boer wat die plaas as ‘n avontuur sien, bied Wildebees-klere die vryheid van beweging en gerief. Wildebees is nie net ‘n handelsmerk nie; dit is ‘n weerspieëling van ‘n leefstyl. Dit is vir die boer wat na ‘n lang dag in die lande steeds die buitelewe koester. Van hul ikoniese “vellies” tot hul praktiese werksbroeke, Wildebees verstaan die boer se behoeftes.

Dit is klere wat vuil kan word, hard werk, en steeds stylvol lyk. So, die volgende keer as die boer homself voorberei vir ‘n dag vol avontuur op die plaas, oorweeg die Wildebees-reeks. Dis klere wat die boer beskerm, terwyl dit ook sy ingebore sin vir avontuur aanwakker – net soos die onverskrokke dier waarna die handelsmerk vernoem is.

Waar is Wildebees-klere Beskikbaar?

Wildebees se produkte strek verder as hul eie winkel in Kempton Park en is landwyd by meer as 300 winkels regoor Suid-Afrika beskikbaar.

Vir meer inligting besoek www.wildebees.com

Saai Karoo Landbouskou bring lewe na Laingsburg

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Saai Karoo Landbouskou bring lewe na Laingsburg

Die Saai Karoo Landbouskou vind op 24 en 25 Oktober 2025 plaas op die Laingsburg sportgronde, en beloof om ’n onvergeetlike ervaring te wees vir elkeen wat landbou, kultuur en gemeenskap waardeer. Met ’n propvol program en uiteenlopende aktiwiteite is hierdie skou veel meer as net ’n uitstalling – dit is ’n fees van samekoms en trots.

Die geleentheid begin met ’n amptelike opening deur die Wes-Kaapse Minister van Landbou, Dr. Ivan Meyer, gevolg deur ’n invloedryke paneelbespreking met onder andere Dr. Theo de Jager, Dr. Dirk Troskie en Heinrich Wyngaard, met Amore Bekker as fasiliteerder. Daarna volg ’n fees van vermaak met kunstenaars soos W.G. Nel, TiNO, Wilbur en Jay. Die “Laingsburg Got Talent”-kompetisie, Mej. Landbou, en ’n volledige jeugprogram sorg vir iets vir almal.

Aktiwiteite vir elke smaak

Pret en kompetisie gaan hand aan hand met die “Op die Kole” braaikompetisie, die wolbaaldra-kampioenskap en die Sterkman van die Karoo-uitdaging. ’n Gesamentlike kerkbasaar en ’n pretloop bring ’n ligter noot, terwyl feesgangers ook kosstalletjies, plaasprodukte en plaaslike kunsvlyt sal kan geniet.

Landbou en leerders in die kollig

Die BKB-veeveiling, opleiding vir kleinboere, en uitstallings van tegnologie en landbou-innovasie bring ’n waardevolle netwerkgeleentheid vir boere en besighede. Die jeug word aktief betrek met ’n patente-kompetisie tussen landbouskole en opvoedkundige aktiwiteite wat jong boere toerus. Met besigheidsverteenwoordiging en insetverskaffers op die terrein, vorm dié skou ’n spilpunt van kennis en toekomsgerigte ontwikkeling.

Met sy balans van plaaslewe, kultuursake, en vermaak, is die Saai Karoo Landbouskou ’n geleentheid wat werklik iets vir almal bied.

Vir meer inligting skakel Helene Coetzee – 082 447 5052

Fields of Gold Canola Blooms Show SA Farming Is Growing Smarter

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Fields of Gold Canola Blooms Show SA Farming Is Growing Smarter

From the winding roads of Caledon to the hills of Swartland, gold is blooming in the Western Cape — not the kind hidden underground, but the kind that stretches across rolling farmland. Canola flowers are lighting up the winter landscape, signalling not the arrival of spring just yet, but the promise of a strong harvest season ahead — and a bright future for climate-smart agriculture in South Africa.

Canola is a winter crop, planted in autumn (April to early June) and harvested in spring. The Western Cape’s Mediterranean climate — with cool, moist winters — offers ideal conditions for its growth. And this year, thanks to well-timed rains, flowering began earlier than usual in several regions.

More Than a Pretty Crop

While canola’s iconic yellow blooms attract photographers, its value for farmers is far more practical. It plays a key role in crop rotation, especially with wheat, helping to manage weeds and suppress soil-borne diseases like take-all.

According to the Crop Estimates Committee, South African farmers planted 166,500 hectares of canola this season — a slight increase from last year. If average yields hold, the country could harvest a record 314,685 tonnes. With growing domestic demand for canola oil and protein-rich oilcake, South Africa has now become a net exporter of this crop.
In addition to its agronomic and economic value, canola also supports biodiversity. Its bright yellow flowers attract bees and other pollinators at a time when few other crops are in bloom — making it an important forage source during the winter months in mixed-farming systems.

Canola hasn’t always been part of the Western Cape’s landscape. It was first trialled in the region in the early 1990s, with commercial expansion taking off in the 2000s. Since then, improved cultivars and local processing capacity have helped turn it into one of South Africa’s fastest-growing winter crops.

The Science of Survival

Despite the optimism, challenges remain. Snail infestations have emerged in wetter areas, forcing some farmers to increase pest control spending. Fortunately, early intervention and knowledge sharing have helped mitigate the impact.

Meanwhile, in the Swartland region, researchers are investigating how climate change — including rising temperatures and fluctuating rainfall — could impact future canola yields. Trials are underway with climate-resilient cultivars designed to withstand elevated CO₂ levels and drier spells.

Innovation & Value Chains

Behind this growth story is a network of support. Southern Oil (SOILL), the largest processor of canola in South Africa, helps drive value addition and market stability by partnering closely with growers. At the policy and education level, Grain SA supports oilseed producers with data, best practices, and production insights.

As agricultural economist Wandile Sihlobo noted, “The rise of canola production in South Africa serves as an inspiration for other value chains. It’s a story of steady growth, supported by innovation and strategic partnerships.”

A Blooming Future

In areas like Swellendam and the Overberg, flowering began as early as late July, while other regions — including the Swartland — will see peak blooms through August into September. This year, these yellow fields are more than just beautiful — they’re a powerful reminder that resilience and adaptation are in full bloom.

The Golden Way Success through Innovation and Quality –ClemenGold®’s Enduring Legacy

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The Golden Way Success through Innovation and Quality –ClemenGold®’s Enduring Legacy

ClemenGold® is more than just a deliciously sweet and aromatic soft citrus; it’s a meticulously nurtured product, hand-picked by selected growers, embodying a perfect harmony of fertile soil, warm sunshine, and dedicated care. This commitment translates into a consistently high-quality eating experience, making ClemenGold® the winning product in the heart of citrus season. As South Africa embraces the peak citrus season, a truly golden success story unfolds in retailers nationwide, proving that true success always follows “The Golden Way.”

This remarkable journey began with the vision of Abraham van Rooyen, often hailed as the “father of ClemenGold®” in South Africa, who championed the introduction of the Nadorcott mandarin and its transformation into a global brand.

From Limpopo Vision to Global Brand

This enduring legacy is a testament to three decades of relentless innovation and an unwavering commitment to quality by the ANB Group, ClemenGold®’s parent company. This dedication has not only transformed the agricultural landscape but has also delighted consumers around the world.

The journey began with a visionary move: the introduction of the Nadorcott mandarin variety to South Africa. Spearheaded by Citrogold, with pivotal support from Du Roi Nursery, this seedless, easy-to-peel, and exquisitely flavoured mandarin quickly became a game-changer. Today, over 5,000 hectares of Nadorcott orchards flourish across South Africa, with a significant portion concentrated in Limpopo, the country’s leading citrus-producing province. This premium fruit is marketed globally under the renowned ClemenGold® brand by Fruitalyst.

Today, ClemenGold® is enjoyed in over 40 countries across Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and North America—making it a true ambassador of South African agricultural excellence and a symbol of the country’s ability to deliver premium citrus to the world.

The daring decision to brand fruit, a novel concept at the time, proved to be instrumental. By investing in a consumer-facing brand, establishing stringent quality standards, and forging strong relationships with key retailers like Woolworths, ANB showcased the immense potential of premium citrus. This strategy demonstrated that strong branding, backed by marketing excellence and an integrated value chain, is the safest path to sustainable market success for all producers.

Unprecedented Retail Recognition and Strategic Partnerships

ClemenGold®’s commitment to excellence extends to every stage of its operation. During July a significant milestone underscores its unique market position: Woolworths, South Africa’s leading premium retailer, dedicated a number of full-sized shop window displays nationwide exclusively to ClemenGold®. As Adéle Ackermann, Marketing Manager of ClemenGold® International, notes, “This kind of marketing creates more than visual impact; it reflects years of strategic brand-building.”

Innovation Beyond the Orchard

Beyond the orchard, ANB’s innovation is driven by CITRII (Continuous Improvement Through Research, Innovation and Intelligence), a centre of excellence established in 2018. This initiative harnesses technology and expert knowledge to optimise production and planning, ensuring consistent, superior fruit. Notably, key ANB Group operations, including Du Roi Nursery and Du Roi Laboratory, are strategically located in Letsitele, Limpopo, serving as a flagship hub for plant technology and production. These entities continue to lead with biosecure structures, cutting-edge potting techniques, and serving the global banana industry with ISO-accredited tissue culture facilities.

It’s a testament to how innovation, quality, and a profound understanding of the consumer can turn ClemenGold® from a fruit into a cherished global brand.

Overberg Abuzz This September: Chelsea Flowers in Stanford and Nampo Cape 2025

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Overberg Abuzz This September: Chelsea Flowers in Stanford and Nampo Cape 2025

September promises to be a remarkable month for the Overberg, with two flagship events drawing attention to farming, conservation, and rural enterprise. From 10 to 13 September 2025 Bredasdorp hosts Nampo Cape 2025, the premier showcase of agricultural innovation in the region. At the same time, Stanford welcomes visitors to Chelsea Flowers in Stanford, running from 10 to 24 September. Together, these events will put the Overberg firmly in the national spotlight, offering farmers both practical insights and a chance to reflect on the environmental systems underpinning agriculture.

Chelsea Flowers in Stanford is not simply a display of floral beauty. Organised by Grootbos Private Nature Reserve and the Grootbos Foundation, the event recreates South Africa’s gold medal-winning exhibit from the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in London. This year’s theme, designed by Leon Kluge and Tristan Woudberg, focuses on water as a life-giving force. A dramatic “mini-canyon,” complete with waterfalls, vertical gardens, and more than 25,000 stems, illustrates how rivers, rainfall, and ocean influences sustain the landscapes that farmers rely on. In a time of increasing climate stress and drought cycles, the display is both visually striking and agriculturally relevant.

Talks with Agricultural Relevance

Running alongside the floral showcase, the “Talks in Town” series brings together experts in horticulture and conservation, offering valuable insights for farmers. Gardening specialist Tanya Visser provides practical knowledge on drought-tolerant plants, mulching, and rainwater harvesting — topics highly relevant to agricultural water management. She also encourages diversification through edible gardens, blending food production with ornamental planting.

Tristan Woudberg explores plant adaptations and pollination in his talk The Great Flower Hunt, linking ecological diversity to crop resilience. His session Richtersveld in Bloom highlights the dramatic impact of rain on arid landscapes, echoing the challenges faced by farmers in marginal environments. Leon Kluge shares the behind-the-scenes story of South Africa’s Chelsea success, illustrating the skill and planning required to create large-scale displays that echo natural systems.

Cape botanist Rupert Koopman adds a historical and economic dimension with his presentation Protean Routes – History of the Flower Trade. By tracing the development of the fynbos industry, Koopman connects South Africa’s natural biodiversity to rural livelihoods and international markets, while stressing the importance of conserving threatened species.

Nampo Cape

Agriculture and Conservation in Harmony

What makes Chelsea Flowers in Stanford particularly significant for the agricultural community is its connection to conservation. Proceeds from the event support the Grootbos Foundation’s projects, which focus on protecting biodiversity while uplifting rural communities. For farmers, this underscores the interdependence of agriculture, ecology, and social development in the region.

As Nampo Cape showcases machinery, technology, and production innovation, Chelsea Flowers in Stanford offers a complementary perspective — one that highlights water, biodiversity, and ecological resilience. Together, the two events position the Overberg not just as a hub of agricultural activity, but also as a region where farming, conservation, and community growth go hand in hand.

This September, the Overberg will not only be buzzing with tractors and trade halls but also alive with flowers and conversations about the future of farming. For producers balancing productivity with sustainability, both events offer valuable lessons.

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