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Ontdek Patagonië saam met TE Toere – van Santiago tot Buenos Aire

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Ontdek Patagonië saam met TE Toere – van Santiago tot Buenos Aire

Patagonië – uitgestrek en ongerep regoor Suid-Amerika vanaf Chili tot Argentinië… ‘n sogenaamde ‘last frontier’ en beslis een van die mees asemrowende en diverse bestemmings op aarde. ’n Reis deur hierdie afgeleë landskap, van Santiago tot Buenos Aires, is ’n eens-in-‘n-leeftyd avontuur, ‘n ongewone samevoeging van twee op-en-wakker wêreld-stede en die natuurskoon van ‘n ongerepte wildernis.

Ons begin in Santiago, Chili se bruisende hoofstad, waar koloniale argitektuur en moderne styl bymekaar kom. Ons proe mildelik aan die beroemde Chileense wynstreke, Casablanca en Maipu en ook eklektiese Valparaiso. Vandaar reis ons suid na die ikoniese Torres del Paine Nasionale Park “- “Torings van Paine” waar grootse granietpieke die naam gestand doen teen turkoois mere en gletsers as agtergrond.

Aan die Argentynse kant wag nog wonderwerke. Net buite El Calafate, ’n klein Patagoniese dorp, beweeg die asemrowende Perito Moreno-gletser – een van die min gletsers wat nog steeds groei. Voorwaar ‘n ysparadys waar krakende, donderende en bewegende ys almal se kamerasluiters laat oortyd werk en telkens na hul asems laat snak – ‘n boot neem ons tot naby, maar veilige afstand, van die blou ysmuur. Daar is ook maklik toeganklike dekke op die bergkant waarteen die gletser vasbeweeg vanwaar ons die ysrivier kan bewonder.

Nog verder suid is Ushuaia, die wêreld se suidelikste stad en toegangsroete tot nog ‘n ongelooflike wildernis, Tierra del Fuego – die “Land van Vuur” met sy digte woude, ruwe kuslyne en wye, oop vlaktes. Die sogenaamde ‘trein na die einde van die aarde’ bring is tot naby al die wonders.

Ons epiese reis eindig in vurige Buenos Aires, Argentinië se kosmopolitiese en legendariese hoofstad, waar Europese elegansie en Latyns-Amerikaanse passie – historiese strate en tango-ritmes gemaklik saamdans.
Van berge en gletsers tot wind verwaaide vlaktes en bruisende metropole – hierdie reis deur Patagonië beloof ‘n unieke ervaring met herinneringe vir ‘n leeftyd.

Kontak TE Toere by Club Travel Tygervallei, Tel: 021 914 22656, [email protected]
www.smallgrouptours.co.za

Sensoru: Never Run Dry Monitor Water Tank Level Sensor

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Sensoru: Never Run Dry Monitor Water Tank Level Sensor

Tired of water crises striking at the worst possible moments? Whether you’re heading out for a family weekend or managing livestock on a remote farm, not knowing the state of your water tanks can lead to costly, time-consuming emergencies. But what if you could monitor your water levels anytime, anywhere — and get instant alerts before problems arise? Introducing Sensoru’s 4G Ultrasonic Solar-Powered Tank Level Sensors, designed to give you peace of mind and save you time, fuel, and hassle.

Know Your Level?

“Why is it always just when you’re about to leave for a family weekend that a critical water supply issue strikes?

Mom and the kids are already waiting in the packed car, but now you have to run off to sort out the water problem. An hour or two passes before you finally get to leave for Stilbaai. We have an easy solution for you!

Sensoru: Never Run Dry Monitor Water Tank Level Sensor

4G Ultrasonic Solar-Powered Tank Level Sensors

Easy to install in under 15 minutes, our sensors measure your tank level every 30 minutes, giving you peace of mind wherever you are. It fits on plastic water tanks, and on open or closed concrete reservoirs.

How Does It Work?

The ultrasonic sensor, installed on top of the tank, emits high-frequency sound waves (ultrasonic waves) toward the surface of the liquid. These waves reflect off the water surface and return to the sensor. By measuring the time it takes for the sound waves to travel to and from the water surface, the sensor calculates the water level in the tank.

Measurements are taken every 30 minutes and uploaded to an online dashboard, accessible from your smartphone or PC. On the dashboard, you can set up low or high-level alerts for each tank. If the water level drops below the set point, an alert SMS is sent to your phone.

Save on Travel (Fuel) and Time (Labour)

Take, for example, a livestock farmer—just think how many hours and kilometres are spent checking all the dams every week, sometimes more than once. After inspecting the reservoirs and seeing that everything seems fine, the farmer heads home for lunch. But just as he leaves the camp, a pipe pops out, or an animal strolls in to chew on the pipeline.

Because the farmer checked all the reservoirs manually, he won’t return for another few days. By then, the situation is critical, and all other work must be stopped to attend to the water issue.
With our sensor, it’s like checking your dams 48 times a day—every single day—compared to physically checking them once a day with a bakkie.

Sensoru: Never Run Dry Monitor Water Tank Level Sensor

“Every morning, after I get my coffee, the first thing I do is check all my dams on the web app. If the graph shows a downward trend, I send one of the farmhands to check the tank and do the repair. The repair is done long before it becomes critical,” – Overberg Dairy Farmer. “I don’t know how I previously farmed without these devices,” – Sheep Farmer, Swellendam.

Sensoru: Never Run Dry Monitor Water Tank Level Sensor

About Us

Sensoru was born out of necessity. Sheep farmers needed a reliable way to monitor their water resources. A severe drought, combined with the mismanagement of a local water scheme that farmers had relied on since the early 1980s, put immense pressure on resources.

The problem? Existing technology was too expensive and primarily designed for irrigation. But when it comes to providing water for livestock, the needs are closer to those of household water supply—requiring cost-effective solutions.

Sensoru set out to develop affordable, efficient, and reliable tank monitoring devices that fit the needs and budgets of farmers. We are based in Overberg and devices are manufactured locally.

More Than Just Water Monitoring

– We also provide:
– Diesel tank level sensors
– Remote Solar pump switches
– Weather stations
– All seamlessly integrated into the same user-friendly dashboard.
Take the guesswork out of water management – contact us today!

For more information contact +(27) 73 355 3018 or visit www.sensoru.co.za 

Johan Jordaan – The Real Reward: Bringing Wine to the World

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Johan Jordaan – The Real Reward: Bringing Wine to the World

Spier’s Cellar Master Johan Jordaan has been named Chenin Blanc Master Winemaker at the prestigious Master Winemaker 100 Awards, a recognition that speaks to his expertise and passion for South Africa’s flagship white grape. This accolade highlights not only his technical skill, but also his dedication to crafting wines that resonate with wine lovers worldwide.

For Jordaan, the true reward goes beyond trophies and accolades. “Awards affirm we’re on the right path,” he says, “but what really matters is people enjoying our wines—sharing them at tables, celebrating, and making memories.”

This philosophy is at the heart of Spier’s winemaking approach. While the competition judges wines in a blind tasting, the real test happens when a bottle is opened, poured, and enjoyed. Spier’s Good Natured Chenin Blanc 2023 and 21 Gables Chenin Blanc 2022, both earning Master Gold Medals, are now reaching consumers worldwide, carrying with them the story of dedication and craftsmanship. Spier’s Chenin Blancs, known for their complexity and balance, continue to win over wine enthusiasts, reinforcing the belief that great wines create lasting moments.

Sustainability: A Legacy in Every Bottle

Jordaan believes that great wine starts with healthy soil. Spier’s regenerative farming practices ensure that each vine thrives naturally, producing fruit that reflects its unique terroir. “We’re not just making wine for today—we’re building a sustainable future,” he explains. By incorporating organic methods and reducing environmental impact, Spier aims to create wines that honour both tradition and progress.

Spier’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the vineyards. Water conservation initiatives and energy-efficient practices ensure that each bottle represents a mindful step toward a greener future. This dedication to ethical farming and eco-friendly viticulture sets Spier apart as a leader in responsible winemaking. As Spier continues its journey, this award reinforces its commitment to quality and sustainability. But for Jordaan, the ultimate success is knowing that his wines bring people together, making ordinary moments extraordinary.

Read more related Wine Articles 

 

Solar Pioneers swap boardrooms for bikes at the Absa Cape Epic

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Solar Pioneers swap boardrooms for bikes at the Absa Cape Epic

Xavier and Andeon Louw, founders and executives of GreenSun, one of South Africa’s leading solar energy companies, typically spend their days managing teams and driving business strategy. This March, however, they’ll swap business meetings for blisters when they tackle the gruelling 2025 ABSA Cape Epic – an eight-day mountain bike race widely considered one of the toughest endurance events in the world.

“After fourteen years solving energy problems and building GreenSun, we wanted a different kind of challenge,” says Xavier, CEO of the firm behind South Africa’s largest seamless-switching solar installation. “The Epic is 700 kilometres of brutal terrain. No spreadsheets or conference calls – just dust, sweat, and seriously sore muscles.”
The brothers will face scorching heat, steep climbs, and technical descents across the Western Cape’s unforgiving landscape. They’ll climb more than 15,000 meters in elevation – roughly twice the height of Mount Everest.

Pushing Limits On and Off the Bike

“We’ve always pushed ourselves beyond comfortable limits,” explains Andeon, GreenSun’s CCO. “That’s where the real fun is, whether in business or on the trail. Some people go to resorts; we prefer to test ourselves against something seriously difficult.”

Their preparation fits around busy work schedules and family commitments, with training sessions squeezed in after work and long rides on weekends. Despite the logistical challenges, the brothers insist this demanding regimen is part of the appeal.

“Business and the Epic have more in common than you’d think,” Xavier reflects with a wry smile. “Both require vision, resilience, and the ability to keep pedalling when every muscle screams to stop. The difference is that in business, you rarely get to enjoy world-class vineyards and mountain vistas, while suffering. I’ve spent years building sustainable energy solutions—now I get to test my own sustainable energy reserves.”

The Louws’ transition from tech executives to trail warriors represents their philosophy of pursuing what they call “big, hairy, audacious goals” both professionally and personally.
“Completing the Cape Epic together has always been a dream for us,” says Andeon. “This year is even more special with the route showcasing some of the Western Cape’s most beautiful landscapes – winding through Durbanville, Paarl, Stellenbosch, and Somerset West.”

For the Louw brothers, the race is not just about personal achievement; it reflects their passion for endurance, resilience, and pushing boundaries—values that drive both their business and their lives. Whether on the trail or in the boardroom, their commitment to tackling challenges head-on remains unwavering.

Read more:

 

GreenSun Empowers SA Farmers with Solar Solutions: Reliable Power, Real Savings

Buitelewe en Landbou Ontmoet by kykNET Buite Ekspo 2025

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Buitelewe en Landbou Ontmoet by kykNET Buite Ekspo 2025

Die kykNET Buite Ekspo, gehou van 7 tot 9 Maart 2025 op Môreson Plaas buite Malmesbury, het vanjaar duisende besoekers gelok en was volgens Marius Opperman van Trio Events, die organiseerder van die ekspo, ‘n groot sukses. Wat hierdie jaar besonders gemaak het, was die eerste toevoeging van ‘n landbou-segment, bekend as die Plus Net Agri Mark Agri Park – ‘n nuwe inisiatief wat geleentheid geskep het om plaaslike landbou as deel van die ekspo te begin insluit.

Hoewel dit die eerste keer was dat landbou deel van die ekspo gevorm het, het die Agri Park wel belangstelling van inwoners uit die Swartland en omliggende gebiede getrek. Mense wat in landbou en plaasprodukte belangstel, het die geleentheid benut om nuwe produkte en oplossings te verken.

Belangrike Impak op Swartland en Plaaslike Ekonomie

Die kykNET Buite Ekspo is nie net ‘n gesinsfees nie, maar ook ‘n belangrike ekonomiese inspuiting vir die Swartland Munisipaliteit en omliggende dorpe. Die ekspo bied plaaslike besighede, SMME’s, entrepreneurs en toerisme-ondernemings die geleentheid om hul produkte en dienste aan die publiek bekend te stel. Met besoekers van oor die hele Wes-Kaap help die ekspo om die plaaslike ekonomie ‘n hupstoot te gee en ondersteun dit die streeksontwikkeling in ’n landbougedrewe gebied soos die Swartland.

Uitstallings, Avontuur en Vermaak vir die Hele Familie

Benewens die nuwe Agri Park, het die ekspo steeds sy gewilde buitelewe-aanbod gebied. Daar was ook ‘n groot verskeidenheid uitstallers van regoor die land teenwoordig, met ‘n wye reeks produkte wat van buitelewe-toerusting tot lewenstylprodukte gestrek het.

Besoekers kon die jongste 4×4- en kampeerprodukte ervaar en toets, terwyl die Maniac 4×4-baan en gratis 4×4-ervarings saam met André de Villiers van André 4×4 vir opwinding gesorg het.

Mossel Bay Helicopters het besoekers die kans gegee om die pragtige Swartland vanuit die lug te bewonder, en gesinne het dit geniet om die platteland vanuit ‘n ander perspektief te sien.

Kinders is ook nie vergeet nie, met gesinsvriendelike vermaak soos Liewe Heksie “Vang Vis”, wat baie gewild was en die jongspan besig gehou het.

Musiek, Kos en Kultuur in die kykNET Arena

Die Hankook-verhoog het deurgaans gesorg vir uitstekende vermaak, met bekende kunstenaars soos Rooiwyn Profeet, Nic Stevens, Rooies, en Nadia Louw & Manie, wat opgetree het en ’n vrolike stemming geskep het.

Kos- en wynstalletjies het ’n groot verskeidenheid plaaslike smake aangebied, van tradisionele disse tot wynproe van die streek se beste wynmakers. Die ekspo het daardeur ’n ware fees van Swartland-kultuur en gasvryheid geword.

Vooruitsigte vir die Toekoms

Die kykNET Buite Ekspo het vanjaar gewys dat dit ’n unieke platform is wat buitelewe, gesinsvermaak en landbou kan saambring.

Die ekspo sluit af met die belofte om in 2026 terug te wees, en om voort te bou op die sukses en lesse van 2025 — ‘n ware eenstop buitelewe- en gemeenskapsfees vir die hele familie!

Elunda Basson Leads Sauvignon Blanc SA into a New Era of Excellence

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Elunda Basson Leads Sauvignon Blanc SA into a New Era of Excellence

As the world celebrates progress and leadership on International Women’s Day, the election of Elunda Basson as Sauvignon Blanc South Africa’s new chairperson marks a significant moment for the organisation and the country’s most widely enjoyed cultivar. Basson, an acclaimed winemaker with a track record of excellence, takes over the reigns from RJ Botha as Sauvignon Blanc SA continues to elevate South African Sauvignon Blanc on the global stage.

As cellar master at Steenberg Vineyards since 2019, Basson has been instrumental in reinforcing Constantia’s reputation for top-tier Sauvignon Blanc. A renowned Cap Classique specialist and vice-chairperson of the Cap Classique Producers Association, she has previously worked at industry leaders such as Nederburg, Pongrácz, and J.C. Le Roux. Her accolades for sparkling and still wines include the 2018 Veritas Vertex Award for Pongrácz Blanc de Blancs, a Top 10 placement at Effervescent du Monde, and the World’s Best Shiraz trophy at the International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC).

Basson notes her transition to Steenberg as a pivotal moment. “Moving from primarily sparkling wines to mastering Sauvignon Blanc was an exciting challenge. Steenberg’s terroir – proximity to the ocean, the South-easterly wind, and decomposed granite soils – lends itself to exceptional Sauvignon Blanc, and the results speak for themselves in your glass.” In 2021 and 2023, Steenberg’s Black Swan Sauvignon Blanc was among the FNB Sauvignon Blanc SA Top 10 winners.

Since joining the Sauvignon Blanc SA committee in 2023, Basson has been an advocate for industry collaboration. “Be the change you want to see in the world. Young winemakers need to see us leading by example. We are a diverse committee of very passionate Sauvignon Blanc winemakers and contributing knowledge and experience is a privilege.”

Looking ahead, Basson is eager to drive innovation. “Our strength lies in the diverse regional expressions of Sauvignon Blanc. We need to highlight this diversity and educate consumers on the premium quality credentials of South African Sauvignon Blanc. The global wine stage is recognising the exceptional quality of our cultivar as some of the most iconic wines coming out of South Africa and we must capitalise on that momentum.”

“On behalf of Sauvignon Blanc SA, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to RJ Botha for his outstanding vision and leadership during his tenure as chairperson. His guidance has been instrumental in the association’s success, driving it to new heights and setting a standard of excellence that will continue to inspire. We are grateful that he will remain part of the committee.”

Looking back and moving forward

Elunda Basson Leads Sauvignon Blanc SA into a New Era of ExcellenceOutgoing chairperson RJ Botha (2018–2025), cellar master of Kleine Zalze, reflects on his tenure, saying, “Sauvignon Blanc has become a brand in its own right. Our producers make some of the best wines in the world, and we’ve undertaken major projects to promote this. From rebranding the association from the Sauvignon Blanc Interest Group (SBIG) to Sauvignon Blanc SA in 2019 to hosting the international Sauvignon Selection by CMB competition in South Africa in 2023, we’ve solidified our international presence. We are well-positioned to take Sauvignon Blanc SA to new heights under Elunda’s leadership.”

Vice-chairperson Thys Louw of Diemersdal Wines shares this optimism: “South African Sauvignon Blanc is experiencing the most exciting era in the cultivar’s history. Cape Sauvignon Blanc is not only the country’s most commercially successful wine in both local and international markets but is also celebrated for its diversity of flavour profiles, styles, and distinctly South African character. This success is driven by the wineland’s multi-dimensional terroir, as well as the passion and vision of our winemakers in their pursuit of excellence. As the industry’s representative body, Sauvignon Blanc SA plays a pivotal role in this journey, and under Elunda’s leadership, I believe we will further cement our reputation on the world stage.”

Sauvignon Blanc SA: Women at the forefront of wine leadership

As Sauvignon Blanc SA enters a new era, women continue to play a pivotal role in shaping its evolution. Basson says: “In an industry where few women serve on cultivar committees – let alone as chairperson – it is inspiring to recognise Erika Obermeyer’s pioneering leadership as chairperson (2012–2013) during the formative years of Sauvignon Blanc South Africa, alongside her fellow committee members. Established in 2003, the Sauvignon Blanc Interest Group (SBIG) operated on an ad hoc basis for a decade before officially transitioning into an association at a members’ meeting in December 2013.”

Basson acknowledges the strides women have made in the wine industry: “Women in wine are proving they have what it takes to be phenomenal winemakers and industry leaders. We need to believe in our worth and support each other. A strong network of women and mentorship from industry veterans will continue to drive this progress.”

Oenologist Dr. Carien Coetzee, who has been a key technical advisor on the committee since 2016, will assume the role of convenor of the FNB Sauvignon Blanc SA Top 10 competition in 2025. She succeeds Dr. Winnie Bowman, who has served in this capacity since 2019.

“My role bridges academic research and practical industry application, helping winegrowers and winemakers stay informed of the latest developments,” says Coetzee. “Our technical blogs have made complex research more accessible, equipping industry professionals with valuable insights.

Coetzee emphasises the growing influence of women in the industry: “Being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry presents unique opportunities for growth, resilience, and leadership. More leadership roles are opening up, and strong mentorship networks – both female and male – are enabling women to excel. As women continue to break barriers and inspire change, their contributions are shaping the wine world in meaningful and impactful ways.”

For more information about Sauvignon Blanc SA, visit https://sauvignonblanc.com/, e-mail [email protected] or call 082 808 1114.

 

Western Cape Leads with Strong Agricultural Growth, Driving GDP and Investment Gains

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Western Cape Leads with Strong Agricultural Growth, Driving GDP and Investment Gains

Agriculture rebounded to a 17.2% growth rate, lifting South Africa’s GDP growth to 0.6% in Quarter 4 of 2024 and for the 2024 year, according to Statistics SA’s national quarterly GDP figures released on 4 March 2025.

Commenting on the agriculture sector’s performance, Western Cape Minister of Agriculture Dr Ivan Meyer said, “Growth in this sector was driven by increased activity in field crops and animal production, as extreme weather occurrences subsided.” He added that this suggests a positive performance for the Western Cape’s fruit, grain, and livestock farming.

 Investment Confidence and Export Growth in the Western Cape

Regarding economic growth in 2025, as of 5 March, S&P Global expects South Africa and the Western Cape’s economies to grow by 1.8% and 2.1%, respectively, with Agriculture (5%) and Trade (3.2%) key drivers in the province.

“Economic conditions are expected to improve as we continue to implement the priority focus areas of the Western Cape Growth For Jobs Strategy, which is building an environment conducive to improved economic growth and job creation,” said the Minister.

In Quarter 1 2025, the Bureau for Economic Research’s Business Confidence Index (BCI) for the Western Cape stood at 52, outperforming the rest of the country’s 45 index points.

Minister Meyer stated, “The Western Cape is the only province in positive investment territory. Effective governance and clear economic growth plans inspire hope and confidence. We have seen record exports of agri products from the Western Cape due to increased agri production. Our farmers, agri workers, and producers remain resilient and are key drivers of our Growth For Jobs strategstrategy.”

Premier Alan Winde added, “Our agricultural sector is a critically important component of our economy. This one sector alone employs more than 200 000 people in the Western Cape, so ensuring its resilience and boosting its growth potential is a priority, especially in the fiscal climate we currently find ourselves in. We will keep supporting our rural and farming communities in any way we can, helping them to become part of our economic recovery and success.”

“Amid current geopolitical developments, we forecast more significant demand for our agri exports, and we will keep engaging with our global trading partners to facilitate more exports. A 5% increase in our agri exports alone over 5 years will result in 22 900 new jobs in the Western Cape. Through economic diplomacy, we will continue to target new markets in the Middle East, ASEAN group, India, China and Africa to unlock further employment in our region. Growing the economy and creating more jobs are the Western Cape Government’s apex priorities, and the agri sector is ready to deliver,” concluded the Minister.

Landbouweekblad se Volhoubare Landboukonferensie 2025

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Landbouweekblad se Volhoubare Landboukonferensie 2025

Op 19 Maart 2025 bied Landbouweekblad in samewerking met die landbouverenigings van Moorreesburg en Piketberg ’n baanbrekende eendagkonferensie aan. Hierdie konferensie, wat in Moorreesburg plaasvind (met die venue nog te bevestig), fokus op volhoubare en veerkragtige boerderypraktyke om boere se winsgewendheid en omgewingsvriendelikheid te verbeter.

Met die tema ‘n Holistiese benadering tot volhoubare landbou, bring die konferensie boere, wetenskaplikes en landboukundiges bymekaar om oplossings vir uitdagings in graan- en veeboerdery te bespreek. Die Swartland is bekend vir sy landboubedryf, en hierdie geleentheid bied boere die kans om nuwe kennis oor presisieboerdery en metodes om natuurlike hulpbronne doeltreffend te benut.

Waarom moet jy hierdie konferensie nie misloop nie? Leer by kenners en medeboere – Kry insig in suksesvolle, omgewingsvriendelike boerderypraktyke. Verhoog jou winsgewendheid – Ontdek tegnieke om koste te verminder terwyl jy jou plaas se volhoubaarheid verbeter. Netwerk met ander boere – Bou waardevolle verhoudings met produsente wat soortgelyke doelwitte nastreef.

Hierdie konferensie is ’n uitstekende geleentheid vir boere om volhoubare strategieë te verken en aan te pas by die veranderende landboulandskap. Maak seker jy bespreek jou plek en wees deel van ’n vooruitdenkende beweging in die Swartland!

Private Sector Investment Could Ease Export Delays at Cape Town Port

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Private Sector Investment Could Ease Export Delays at Cape Town Port

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has welcomed Transport Minister Barbara Creecy’s reported confirmation that a Request For Information (RFI) will be issued in March to test private sector appetite for partnerships on ports and freight rail lines.

Cape Town’s Port Struggles Among the Worst in the World, Says Mayor

‘We are encouraged that national government will this month test private sector appetite for partnerships on ports and freight rail. This is long overdue, especially for the Port of Cape Town, which is ranked among the worst in the world. We call on the Minister to ensure that Cape Town’s port is included in the Request For Information process. The RFI needs to be designed to encourage private sector proposals to co-run Cape Town’s port and enable major infrastructure investment.

‘Government doesn’t have the money to properly invest in our port’s infrastructure, and can also not raise these funds via unaffordable taxing of South Africans, as with the failed 2% VAT hike proposal. While some new and replacement cranes are apparently on the way for Cape Town’s port, this is a drop in the ocean compared to the robust private sector investment and operational control needed to lift our port’s performance to compete with the best in the world.

‘An efficient port will raise exports of locally produced products and drive job creation in these industries, especially in our vital agricultural sector. We need a clear and urgent deadline for greater private sector involvement in Cape Town’s port operations, and we will be watching this RFI process closely,’ said Mayor Hill-Lewis.

There has been little clarity to date on government’s plans for the Port of Cape Town, despite recent announcements by Transnet that it will be seeking private sector investment for the ports in Durban, Richard’s Bay and Gqeberha.

Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, Alderman James Vos, said he had recently engaged business leaders in the fresh produce supply chain who noted the impact of port inefficiencies on their products and services.

‘A major company involved in the movement of fresh produce for export said there was a 20% drop in exports of fruits such as grapes in the current period due to the port’s problems. Further to the point, the global average for gross crane moves per hour (GCH) is between 25 and 30. According to the South African Association of Freight Forwarders, the Cape Town Container Terminal averages at about 13 GCH. This creates significant ripple effects for all businesses and employees in the supply chain. With this port handling 80% of deciduous fruit exports each season (from December to April), it is absolutely vital – and urgent – for our economy that this port improves operational conditions,’ said Alderman Vos.

In addition, Alderman Vos urged the port’s management to prioritise the acquisition of new equipment that would better manage adverse weather conditions.

‘Whenever Cape Town experiences strong windy conditions, port operations grind to a near halt. Yet we have always been a city of great gusts and port authorities must do more to stay ahead of such conditions. When the port is unable to operate sufficiently, exporters are forced to divert their goods to other ports in Durban, Gqeberha and elsewhere at huge costs. While we note the recent addition of new equipment and a new booking system, Transnet must ensure that it acquires the requisite technical and management skills. The private sector has the services and the expertise and have shown they are willing to assist as much as possible. Now it is up to Transnet to work with them for the good of the millions of unemployed South Africans and our economy,’ said Alderman Vos.

Port Inefficiencies Costing Jobs and Billions in Lost Exports

Research from the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism shows that private sector participation at the Port of Cape Town could result in an additional R6 billion in exports, the creation of approximately 20 000 jobs, and over R1,6 billion in additional tax revenues within five years.

GreenSun Empowers SA Farmers with Solar Solutions: Reliable Power, Real Savings

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GreenSun Empowers SA Farmers with Solar Solutions: Reliable Power, Real Savings

As South African farmers grapple with escalating electricity costs and the need for dependable energy, GreenSun Renewable Energy is delivering practical, cost-effective solar and battery solutions. With over a decade of expertise and a proven track record of successful installations, GreenSun is helping farmers and commercial clients achieve immediate savings, long-term value, and energy independence. By offering flexible financing and cutting-edge technology tailored to the agri-market, GreenSun is making solar not just accessible, but essential for farms of all sizes.

Flexible Financing: Savings From Day One

In an industry where cash flow is critical, GreenSun offers two financing options that ensure farmers see returns without upfront strain: the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) and the 10-year rent-to-own bank finance.

PPA: Farmers pay only for the electricity generated by their solar and battery system, often at rates equal to or below current electricity rates. There’s no initial investment—just immediate savings that lighten the load on tight budgets.

Rent-to-Own: Spread the system cost over 10 years, with monthly payments covered by energy savings. After a decade, the system belongs to the farmer, fully paid for by the sun’s power.
Consider a recent GreenSun project: a commercial client installed a 2,022.9 kW- DC solar system with a 4,112 kWh battery. In its first year, we are projection an annual electricity bill dropped from R30.4 million to R20.7 million, saving R9.6 million. Under the PPA, they paid nothing upfront; with rent-to-own, their R9.1 million annual financing cost was outpaced by savings, keeping them cash-positive from the start. “Our goal is to make solar work for farmers’ bottom lines,” says Andeon Louw, GreenSun’s Chief Commercial Officer. “These results show it’s not just possible—it’s happening now.”

GreenSun Empowers SA Farmers with Solar Solutions Reliable Power, Real Savings

Smart Batteries: More Than Just Backup

For many farmers, batteries seem like a luxury—until they realize the savings they unlock. GreenSun’s systems go beyond outage protection, using AI-driven technology to optimize energy use based on Time of Use tariffs, weather patterns, each farm’s unique energy profile, and kVA demand charges. This means storing free solar power during the day and deploying it when electricity rates peak, a strategy known as energy arbitrage.
In the same project, the battery is delevering R627,785 in demand savings in one year by shifting 1,051,446 kWh to high-rate periods. And reliability? GreenSun’s millisecond switchover ensures seamless power transitions—vital for irrigation, refrigeration, or livestock systems. “During the 2023 loadshedding crisis, this client lost R17 million in scraped goods,” Andeon notes. “Even without loadshedding today, that kind of security—and savings—is invaluable.”

Quality That Pays Off

Solar can be a game-changer, but only if it’s done right. Substandard installations can lead to frequent breakdowns, costly repairs, and lost productivity—risks farmers can’t afford. GreenSun eliminates that worry with over 14 years of experience, 3,120+ installations, and 50 MW of solar deployed across projects like Mulderbosch Wine Farm and Kruger National Park. Their systems use top-tier components with bankable warranties
“Farmers need energy they can rely on, not systems that fail mid-season,” Andeon explains. “We’ve seen poorly installed setups cost thousands in downtime. Our approach guarantees performance, so farmers can focus on what they do best—farming.” With GreenSun, it’s not just about going solar; it’s about going solar with confidence.

GreenSun Empowers SA Farmers with Solar Solutions Reliable Power, Real Savings

Technology That Works for You

GreenSun understands that farmers aren’t energy experts—and they shouldn’t have to be. Their systems are designed for simplicity, with AI functionality that self-adjusts battery levels to match farm demands, weather shifts, and tariff schedules. No manual tinkering, no guesswork—just steady, efficient power. This contrasts sharply with budget setups that leave farmers scrambling to fix glitches or replace failed parts.

“Our technology takes the complexity out of solar,” says Louw. “It’s like having a silent partner managing your energy, so you can keep your eyes on the fields.” From small holdings to large operations, GreenSun tailors solutions that deliver without the hassle.

A Financial and Environmental Win

With Eskom rates rising 12.7% this year, GreenSun’s solar delivers electricity at from R1.30/kWh on a PPA option for panels only or R2.85/kWh when batteries are included. This is always subject to site specific energy challenges.

Adding battery-driven arbitrage, and the savings stack up fast. Plus, the 12B tax incentive—offering a 125% deduction on renewable investments—slashes costs further. In the featured project, a R56.5 million system dropped to a net R39.1 million after deductions, but this perk expires in March 2025.

GreenSun Empowers SA Farmers with Solar Solutions Reliable Power, Real Savings

Beyond the numbers, solar cuts carbon emissions, aligning profitability with sustainability. “It’s about securing your farm’s future—economically and environmentally,” Louw adds.

Act Now: Your Farm, Your Power

GreenSun’s proven approach—flexible financing, smart technology, and unmatched reliability—offers farmers a clear path to lower costs and greater control. With tax incentives on the clock and electricity prices climbing, there’s no better time to make the switch.

Visit www.GreenSun.co.za, call Andeon Louw at +27 84 470 4444, or email [email protected] for a free consultation. “We’re here to power your farm with solutions that last,” Louw says.

Let’s make it happen—together

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