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Cultivating Excellence: Agricultural Writers SA Awards Honour Industry Trailblazers

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Cultivating Excellence: Agricultural Writers SA Awards Honour Industry Trailblazers

The Agricultural Writers SA (AWSA) Awards brought together South Africa’s leading figures in agriculture to honour those who drive innovation, sustainability, and progress in the sector. Hosted at the elegant Old Trafford (Centurion Lake Hotel) in Centurion, this prestigious annual event celebrates the remarkable contributions of farmers, communicators, and agriculturalists to the nation’s food security and economic resilience.

Lindi Botha, chairperson of AWSA, emphasized the significance of these awards in highlighting the critical role agriculture plays in the country’s economy. She stressed the importance of recognizing individuals who exemplify innovation, environmental stewardship, and community impact. According to Botha, celebrating these trailblazers is vital for setting the tone for the future of South African agriculture, ensuring its continued growth and global competitiveness.

Honouring the Best in Agriculture

A major highlight of the event was the announcement of the national winners in three categories: National Farmer, New Entrant to Commercial Agriculture, and Agriculturalist of the Year. These winners were selected from a distinguished pool of provincial honourees.

Farmer of the Year: André Brink, from Groot Phesantelraal Boerdery in the Western Cape, was celebrated for his pioneering and sustainable farming practices that have set new industry standards.

Agricultural Writers SA Awards Honour Industry TrailblazersNew Entrant to Commercial Agriculture of the Year: Thulani Magida, founder of Juta Agritech in the Eastern Cape, was recognized for his resilient and innovative entry into commercial farming, showcasing forward-thinking strategies.

Agriculturalist of the Year: Professor Driekie Fourie, a leading nematode researcher with Syngenta, was honored for her substantial contributions to agricultural science, particularly in pest management and crop health.

Agricultural Writers SA Awards Honour Industry TrailblazersSponsors such as Dawie Maree from FNB Agriculture expressed admiration for the winners, commending their commitment to sustainable practices and their impact on food security and economic growth. Maree emphasized that their dedication not only strengthens the agricultural sector but also inspires a new generation of agricultural leaders.

A Celebration of Learning, Collaboration, and Inspiration

The awards ceremony was part of a day filled with enriching activities for AWSA members. The event included professional development workshops, like storytelling sessions supported by Sensako, aimed at enhancing members’ communication skills. This was followed by the Annual General Meeting, where members gathered to discuss ongoing projects and the strategic direction of the organization.

The gala evening was a highlight, celebrating both national and provincial award winners and recognizing the exceptional efforts of those contributing to the sector. Andries Wiese from Hollard highlighted that these awards acknowledge the passion and dedication that agricultural professionals bring to their work, with their impact extending beyond personal achievements to benefiting entire communities.

In addition to the primary awards, the event also honoured winners of various member competitions, recognizing excellence in areas like communication, biotechnology, mechanization, and agricultural photography. These competitions, supported by sponsors like BKB, CropLifeSA, and CaseIH, showcased the diverse skills and creativity within the AWSA community.

Planning Ahead for the IFAJ World Congress 2027

The event also included discussions focused on South Africa’s preparations for hosting the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) World Congress in 2027. The organizing committee is actively planning how to leverage this opportunity to highlight South Africa’s agricultural strengths on a global stage, positioning the country as a leader in agricultural innovation.

As the 2024 Agricultural Writers SA Awards drew to a close, it was evident that the gathering was more than just a celebration of individual achievements – it was a testament to the unity, resilience, and shared vision of the South African agricultural community. With inspiring leaders like André Brink, Thulani Magida, and Professor Driekie Fourie driving the industry forward, the future of South African agriculture is poised for continued innovation and sustainability.

The event’s success was made possible by the generous support of sponsors such as FNB, Hollard, Syngenta, and others, emphasizing the importance of recognizing excellence in this vital industry. As AWSA continues to uplift and inspire those committed to agriculture, it sets a powerful precedent for how recognition can drive progress and growth in this essential field.

Premier Winde Enhances Water Security and Infrastructure in the West Coast

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Premier Winde Enhances Water Security and Infrastructure in the West Coast

Premier Alan Winde recently conducted a series of unannounced visits to various facilities in the West Coast region, covering Clanwilliam, Citrusdal, and Piketberg. These visits focused on assessing the progress of critical infrastructure projects and the impacts of climate change on agricultural communities in the area. Key highlights included healthcare services, social development, and major infrastructure projects essential to supporting the agricultural sector, particularly as it grapples with the effects of extreme weather patterns.

Impact of Infrastructure on Agriculture

One of the most significant projects in the region is the Clanwilliam Dam construction, which aims to raise the dam wall by 13 meters. This project is vital for improving water security, a critical resource for the region’s farming industry. The agricultural sector, which heavily relies on consistent water supplies, stands to benefit significantly once the project is completed. Premier Winde emphasized, “The increased water capacity will not only secure the livelihoods of farmers but is estimated to create around 15,000 jobs in agriculture.” However, delays have slowed progress, and the Premier urged all involved to expedite the work to ensure timely completion.

The construction of the dam is aligned with the Western Cape Government’s goal of bolstering water resilience, which is crucial for sustaining agricultural productivity, especially during periods of prolonged drought or unexpected heat waves. The expanded water storage capacity will be a boon for irrigation, supporting both small-scale farmers and large agricultural enterprises in the region.

Reinstatement of Section R303 Critical for Farming Access

Another crucial project in the West Coast region is the reinstatement of the MR 310 (R303) road, a vital artery linking Citrusdal with the N7. This road was severely damaged by heavy rains in July 2024, temporarily cutting off access to important agricultural zones. The reinstatement is progressing with one-way traffic currently managed through a stop-and-go system. The Premier stressed the importance of completing this project swiftly, especially ahead of the festive season and the peak farming period, which sees a surge in transportation of goods and produce.

“The road infrastructure is vital for transporting agricultural products, especially citrus, which is a significant export crop for the region. Ensuring that this road is operational is not just about connectivity; it’s about sustaining the economic lifeline of these farming communities,” stated Premier Winde.

Addressing Climate Change: A Priority for Farmers

The Premier’s visits highlighted the increasing challenges posed by climate change, especially on agricultural operations. Staff at the Western Cape Department of Social Development (WCDSD) in Clanwilliam raised concerns about how unpredictable weather patterns and extreme events like heavy rain and flooding have made it difficult for social workers to reach vulnerable rural communities. This unpredictability also impacts farmers, who are seeing shifts in growing seasons and harvest periods, increasing pressure on crop yields.

Premier Winde emphasized that climate change mitigation is a top priority, noting that farmers are on the front lines of these changes. The provincial government aims to invest in more resilient infrastructure to support agricultural productivity. The refurbishment of social development offices and the use of technology like the Social Work Integrated Management System (SWIMS) is part of an integrated approach to support both residents and the agricultural sector.

Infrastructure Investments and Economic Growth

Beyond the immediate benefits to agriculture, the infrastructure projects are also driving job creation. The Premier pointed out that the construction sector added 42,000 jobs in the third quarter of 2024, contributing to the Western Cape’s unemployment rate falling below 20% for the first time in years. This growth is not just a win for the construction industry but is also expected to spill over into agriculture, providing long-term economic stability for rural communities.

Premier Winde concluded his visit by reiterating the Western Cape Government’s commitment to securing the resources needed to support critical infrastructure and climate resilience initiatives. “Investing in these projects is about more than just bricks and mortar. It’s about securing the future of our agricultural communities and ensuring they can continue to thrive despite the challenges posed by climate change and economic pressures.”

These infrastructure developments and climate change initiatives are not just about immediate relief, but also long-term sustainability for the region’s farming sector, which remains a backbone of the local economy.

Franschhoek Cap Classique Festival Returns for a Sparkling Weekend

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Franschhoek Cap Classique Festival Returns for a Sparkling Weekend

As the festive season approaches and with summer in full swing, the Franschhoek Wine Valley is excited to announce the return of its annual sparkling highlight: the Capitec Franschhoek Cap Classique & Champagne Festival. Set for Saturday, November 30, and Sunday, December 1, 2024, this year’s event, in proud partnership with Capitec, promises to be another dazzling celebration drawing bubbly enthusiasts from all across South Africa.

Set against the historic backdrop of the Huguenot Monument, the festival unfolds over a weekend rich with epicurean delights, providing plenty of reasons to raise a glass and share a toast. Attendees can look forward to an unforgettable experience filled with floral-themed festivities, exquisite Cap Classiques, and vibrant live entertainment. The joyful sound of popping corks will resonate throughout, creating the perfect atmosphere for celebrating all things sparkling.

The venue is renowned for its garden-party style atmosphere – and invites attendees to dress up and don their finest attire for the Best Dressed Competition, with the theme “Elegantly Floral,” beautifully capturing the vibrant essence of the season and the surrounding beauty of the renowned Cape Floral Kingdom.

Over two lively days, festival-goers can enjoy performances by popular acts such as the Majozi Band and the Absolutely Fabulous Duo, returning by popular demand. As the culinary capital of the country, Franschhoek’s local restaurants and a variety of pop-up food stalls will ensure that guests indulge in artisanal gourmet goodness and French-inspired fare proudly on offer.

“We are thrilled to be the title sponsor of this remarkable event,” says Asha Patel, Head of Brand and Communications at Capitec. “As we celebrate the close of the year, the Capitec Franschhoek Cap Classique & Champagne Festival offers a wonderful opportunity to come together and toast to the wins of 2024 while looking ahead to a bright 2025. Our partnership reflects our commitment to fostering community connections while empowering the entrepreneurs of South Africa in this space; we look forward to sharing in the exceptional Cap Classique’s and gourmet gold that this valley is so renowned for. It remains a true highlight on the social calendar and provides us with the perfect platform to connect with and entertain our clients.”

Upon entry, attendees will receive a complimentary glass champagne flute along with 10 tasting tokens, granting access to a selection of Cap Classique on display. Additionally, a variety of Champagnes will be available for purchase by the glass or bottle. Please be advised that, in accordance with South African law, no guests under the age of 18 will be permitted at the event.

Venue: The Huguenot Monument
Saturday: 11h00 – 17h00 (Venue closes at 18h00)
Sunday: 11h00 – 16h00 (Venue closes at 17h00)

Join the Franschhoek Wine Valley for a weekend of celebration, camaraderie, and, of course, exceptional bubbly.

Tru-Cape Cherry Growers Stay Optimistic Amid Frost Setbacks

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Tru-Cape Cherry Growers Stay Optimistic Amid Frost Setbacks

Despite frost heavily affecting early cherry varieties, Tru-Cape’s cherry growers remain positive about the overall quality of this season’s harvest and the promising opportunities available in both local and international markets.

“While there may be less fruit on the trees this season, the quality and size of the fruit are outstanding,” says Deon Malherbe from the farm Eselfontein in the Warm Bokkeveld, noting that the season is running about fourteen to sixteen days later than last year.

According to Nico Verhoef, the financial director at Witzenberg Properties, early varieties, of which about 40% to 60% were destroyed by frost during the flowering stage, represent only approximately 10% of the overall crop. Fortunately, the later varieties were spared from the frost, and producers are cautiously optimistic about the later part of the harvest.

“Producers in the early market segment faced a significant setback, but the reduced volume helped to drive prices upwards. We were also concerned that the cool spring conditions and late-season rain might affect the sugar levels of the cherries. However, to our delight, we are now harvesting firm cherries with high sugar levels.”

Johan Brink, Tru-Cape’s national marketing manager, says the market is currently empty, and cherry prices are approximately 25% higher than last year.

“The local market prices are aligned with those in the export market, and we are experiencing strong demand from local retailers and municipal markets.”

Nico mentions that all South African retailers are now keenly interested in cherries, a shift from a few years back.

“The local public is more aware of cherries, and there is growing demand for them even in the informal market.”

Export markets are calling

At present, around 70% of Tru-Cape’s cherry harvest is sold within South Africa, but Johan sees promising opportunities in the United Kingdom, Europe, the Far East, and the Middle East.

“It has always been our strategy to focus on the local market as much as possible to reduce our risk. However, with new orchards and increasing cherry production, we are shifting our approach to grow exports.”

Deon is also thrilled about talks of South African cherries gaining market access to China by 2027.

“It is a tremendous opportunity for our industry.”

Witzenberg Properties aims to achieve its goal of selling 50% of its cherries in the export market this year.

“There is a genuine risk that supply may eventually surpass the local demand; hence, it is crucial to diversify and explore new markets promptly,” explains Nico.

South Africa produces less than 1% of the global cherry supply, yet there is a definite preference for South African cherries in international markets, according to Johan.

“The market is willing to pay a premium for South African cherries because of the incredible flavour and exceptional quality.”

Better varieties for our conditions

Deon is particularly enthusiastic about advancements in cultivar development in the cherry space.

“The new generation of varieties outshine the older cultivars, and you might want to reconsider your approach if you’re not using the best varieties available. Factors like fruit size, shelf life, taste, and yield will guide you when selecting varieties,” he explains, adding that cherries are a prime example of a farming crop that carries both high risks and high rewards.

The drive in the market is for bigger fruit, even as large as 28 mm and more.

“When selecting cultivars, think about the future and keep these market trends in mind,” is his advice.

As the leading exporter of pome fruit in South Africa, Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing is committed to focusing on apples and pears, but cherries are a good addition to their marketing basket, reckons Roelf Pienaar, the managing director of Tru-Cape. The South African Cherry Association reports a remarkable 54% growth in cherry orchards from 2020 to 2023. Notably, around 73% of the country’s cherry production occurs in the Ceres area, where many of Tru-Cape’s shareholders are actively farming.

“Many of them are venturing into the cherry industry, which presents an excellent diversification strategy for those growing apples and pears. I see great potential in cherries, and we aim to increase our volumes in the upcoming seasons, particularly to take advantage of opportunities in trading markets like the Far East and the Middle East,” says Roelf.

“At Tru-Cape, our sole purpose is to create value for our growers, and we now have the chance to enhance their farming operations by marketing and promoting quality cherries.”

Top Dairy Farmers Honored at 2024 ARC Master Dairyman Awards

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Top Dairy Farmers Honored at 2024 ARC Master Dairyman Awards

The winners of the 2024 National Master Dairyman Awards were announced by the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) on Wednesday 13 November, at Lanzerac Estate in Stellenbosch.

This prestigious competition, a highlight of South Africa’s agricultural calendar, annually recognises outstanding performance by the country’s top dairy farmers. Winners are celebrated across various categories for breeding genetically superior animals, using performance recording, and applying testing as key tools.

The winners of the 2024 ARC National Master Dairyman Awards are:

  • Large-Scale Master Dairyman of the Year: Foundation Farm (Barry and Jane Schiever), Weenen, KwaZulu-Natal
  • Medium-Scale Dairyman of the Year: Tweekop Boerdery (Pieter Steenkamp and Dirk van Papendorp), Heidelberg, Western Cape
  • Small-Scale Dairyman of the Year: Gugulomuzi Ngcobo, Donnybrook, KwaZulu-Natal
  • Herd with the Best Somatic Cell Count: E Zeeman (Etienne Zeeman), Swellendam, Western Cape, with 157 000 cells/ml
  • Herd with the Best Intercalving Period: Packwood Farm (Heinrich Hurter), Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape, with an intercalving period of only 391 days

Barry Schiever said that Foundation Farm was honoured to receive the award as Large-Scale Master Dairyman of the Year. He praised the practice of milk recording in collaboration with the ARC, describing it as a valuable tool in enhancing the performance of individual cows in the herd. Foundation Farm, which has around 2,000 cows in milk, began in Weenen, KwaZulu-Natal, in 1990 with just 20 registered cows and has since expanded to two dairies supplying Nestlé, Douglasdale, and Dairyland.

Sustainable youth development

The awards ceremony included a panel discussion on sustainable youth development. Moderated by Breyton Milford, General Manager of Agri-Expo, the panel featured Prof. Norman Maiwashe, General Manager: Animal Production at the ARC, Daneel Rossouw, Head of Sales: Agriculture at Nedbank, and Marguerite van Niekerk, a dairy science lecturer at Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute. Prof. Maiwashe highlighted the importance of investing in skills and research, recommending that the industry should allocate more resources and work together to engage young people in agriculture through initiatives such as agricultural shows. Van Niekerk echoed this, calling for greater industry access for students, both during and after their studies, to help them gain practical experience.

Partners in agricultural excellence

Dr. Litha Magingxa, President and CEO of the ARC, and Joyene Isaacs, Chairperson of the ARC, both underscored the impactful role of partnerships in achieving synergy and excellence within South African agriculture.

The 2024 awards event was hosted by Agri-Expo on behalf of the National Milk Recording and Improvement Scheme of the ARC, with support from partners including the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD), Nedbank, Nova Feeds, Agri-Expo, Semex South Africa, World Wide Sires South Africa, Meadow Feeds, Chemuniqué, Ecolab, and Axiota® Animal Health.

The ARC’s National Milk Recording and Improvement Scheme plays a critical role in the dairy industry through the provision of genetic improvement services, accredited by the International Committee for Animal Recording (ICAR). The objective of the scheme is to enhance the sustainability and profitability of production, ultimately contributing to food security, job creation and human capital development.

The awards can be viewed at https://www.agriexpo.co.za/arc-masterdairyman-awards/.  For more information, contact Hendrik de Waal at [email protected] or 082 775 7703.

Q3 2024 Labour Survey: Western Cape Leads Job Growth, Agriculture Remains Resilient

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Q3 2024 Labour Survey: Western Cape Leads Job Growth, Agriculture Remains Resilient

The latest Quarter 3 2024 Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) presents encouraging signs for South Africa’s labour market, highlighting substantial job creation in the Western Cape and the resilience of the agricultural sector. In a period marked by global economic challenges, both government and private sector leaders have responded positively to the latest employment data. This article delves into insights shared by the Western Cape Government and Nedbank on the implications of the survey.

The latest Quarter 3 2024 Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) presents encouraging signs for South Africa’s labour market, highlighting substantial job creation in the Western Cape and the resilience of the agricultural sector. In a period marked by global economic challenges, both government and private sector leaders have responded positively to the latest employment data. This article delves into insights shared by the Western Cape Government and Nedbank on the implications of the survey.

Western Cape Sets the Pace in Job Creation

The Western Cape continues to lead South Africa in job creation, adding an impressive 75,000 jobs between Q2 and Q3 of 2024. The province now boasts the highest Absorption Rate in the country at 54.2% and shares the highest Labour Force Participation Rate at 67.4%. These metrics highlight the Western Cape’s capacity to integrate new jobseekers into the economy, despite broader national and global economic challenges.

Reacting to the report, Premier Alan Winde expressed his satisfaction, emphasizing that job creation is about more than just numbers. “Every job added to the economy is a lasting investment in the safety, well-being, and dignity of our residents,” said Winde. He credited initiatives like the SMME Booster Fund and the Red Tape Reduction Unit for driving growth by supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs.

Winde acknowledged that while progress has been made, more work is needed to sustain economic growth. “These numbers are particularly encouraging as we approach the festive season, which traditionally brings more job opportunities with increased tourism,” he noted.

Ivan Meyer, the Western Cape’s Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development, and Tourism, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the impact of the province’s ‘Growth for Jobs’ strategy. “Our focus remains on creating sustainable economic opportunities. Our investment pipeline, exports, and increase in tourism numbers are creating business and investment confidence,” Meyer emphasized.

He further explained that, “Good governance and a clear focus on infrastructure investment are paying off. These efforts are not only driving job creation but also strengthening the resilience of our local economy. We are committed to leveraging these gains to create even more opportunities for the citizens of the Western Cape. As we continue to grow our exports and attract investments, our province is positioned to remain a frontrunner in economic development.”

Nedbank’s View on Agriculture: A Sector of Resilience

From the perspective of the private sector, Daneel Rossouw, Head of Sales: Agriculture at Nedbank Commercial Banking, offered insights into the agricultural sector’s performance. According to the QLFS, agriculture experienced a net gain of 39,000 jobs compared to Q2 2024 but faced a loss of 21,000 jobs year-on-year compared to Q3 2023.

The agricultural sector currently employs around 900,000 people, according to the QLFS, which remains well above the historical average of 793,000 jobs reported in 2023. Despite challenges like energy supply constraints, infrastructure bottlenecks, and port inefficiencies, the sector continues to demonstrate resilience.

Rossouw emphasized that addressing these structural issues is crucial for unlocking agriculture’s full potential. He urged for the prioritization of the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan to drive medium to long-term growth and create additional employment opportunities. “The implementation of this plan will be vital for ensuring agriculture’s sustained contribution to GDP and job creation,” Rossouw concluded.

The positive reactions to the Q3 2024 Labour Force Survey from both the Western Cape Government and Nedbank reflect a shared optimism about the future. By focusing on reducing barriers for businesses, investing in key sectors like agriculture, and driving economic growth through strategic initiatives, both entities are committed to creating more jobs and fostering resilience.

As South Africa navigates a challenging economic landscape, the Western Cape’s leadership in job creation and the agricultural sector’s ongoing contribution to employment are bright spots that inspire confidence. With continued collaboration between the government and private sector, there is hope for sustained economic growth and job creation in the months ahead.

 

 

Franschhoek Open Garden Festival 2024: A Celebration of Horticultural Beauty

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Franschhoek Open Garden Festival 2024: A Celebration of Horticultural Beauty

The picturesque town of Franschhoek is set to come alive with the return of the Franschhoek Open Garden Festival from 15 – 17 November 2024. This much-anticipated event is a highlight on the calendar for garden enthusiasts, offering visitors the chance to explore ten captivating and diverse gardens nestled in one of South Africa’s most scenic valleys.

A Showcase of New and Beloved Gardens

This year’s festival will feature a delightful mix of gardens, catering to all tastes. Attendees can look forward to exploring one newly introduced garden, along with five gardens that haven’t been showcased in over two years, and four popular returning gardens from last year’s event. Each garden offers a unique experience, ranging from quaint village settings to expansive farm landscapes, making it a perfect outing for garden lovers of all kinds.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or simply someone who appreciates nature’s beauty, the festival promises a variety of lush green spaces to admire. Gardens on show include:

  • Mont Pellier, Upper Waterfall Farm (off Bridge House)
  • Lemon Tree Corner, 57 Huguenot Street
  • Parkview Garden, 7 Malherbe Street
  • Bagatelle De La Cotte, 37 De Wet Street
  • Garden House, 29 De Wet Street
  • 29 Akademie Street
  • La Cotte Farm Garden, 24 La Cotte Street
  • 14 Louis Botha Street
  • 28 Van Riebeeck Street
  • Farm Lorraine, Verdun Road

Event Details and Access

The festival will run daily from 10 am to 5 pm, providing ample time for visitors to leisurely explore each garden. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, brochures with detailed maps will be available, guiding visitors through the various locations.

Tickets for the event are priced at R200 per person and can be purchased online via Web Tickets or at the NG Church Hall on Main Street throughout the festival weekend. This ticket grants access to all the gardens featured in the festival, allowing visitors to enjoy the full spectrum of beauty on display.

Guidelines for Visitors

In the spirit of maintaining a serene environment for all attendees, pets will not be allowed at the event. This ensures that everyone can fully appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and the carefully curated gardens without disruptions.

A Weekend to Celebrate Nature

The Franschhoek Open Garden Festival is more than just an opportunity to admire beautiful landscapes; it’s a celebration of the artistry and dedication of garden owners who open their private spaces to the public. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your own garden or simply looking to enjoy a day surrounded by nature’s splendour, this festival promises a memorable experience.

Mark your calendar for 15-17 November, and prepare to be enchanted by the lush gardens of Franschhoek!

Hortgro Launches Centre to Tackle Invasive Pests in Deciduous Fruit Industry

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Hortgro Launches Centre to Tackle Invasive Pests in Deciduous Fruit Industry

The South African deciduous fruit industry proudly announces the
launch of a Centre of Excellence dedicated to advancing pest monitoring and
safeguarding the future of the industry. This new initiative, spearheaded by industry
association Hortgro, addresses the increasing challenges posed by invasive pests and
diseases.

Hortgro Executive Director Anton Rabe emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive pest
surveillance as new pests increasingly threaten the industry’s sustainability and profitability,
from crop damage to quarantine risks. “We must understand where pests occur and where
they don’t, as this directly influences crop protection strategies and practices,” Rabe stated.

Catching an invasive pest as soon as it arrives in the county may allow us to eradicate it
before it has gained a foothold. In addition, advance warning on the arrival of a pest or
disease buys our industry critical time to develop management practices and manage
phytosanitary concerns.

To meet this goal, the Centre of Excellence will build upon the monitoring capacity of FruitFly
Africa (FFA), an operating company with industry-wide support, which has managed pest
monitoring services since 2001. The FFA has been instrumental in tracking and controlling
pests like the Mediterranean fruit fly across all major deciduous fruit production areas. Their
initiatives include monitoring more than 6,000 traps and producing and releasing millions of
sterile Mediterranean fruit flies annually to manage populations.

The Centre will enhance these efforts, expanding surveillance to other significant pests,
including the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) and spotted wing Drosophila (SWD). This
strategic expansion positions the deciduous fruit industry as a proactive leader in pest and
disease surveillance. The capacity established at FFA can also be utilized by other industries,
such as berries, wine and table grapes.

The Centre of Excellence initiative will ensure that the deciduous fruit industry remains resilient
and internationally competitive despite the threat of invasive pests.

FruitFly Africa fast facts

• FFA monitors more than 6000 traps in all major deciduous fruit production areas:

o Mediterranean fruit fly 3300 traps
o Oriental fruit fly 1290 traps
o Spotted wing Drosophila 57 traps
o False Codling Moth 1550 traps
o Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer 174 traps

• In 2023/24 FFA produced about 65 million sterile Mediterranean fruit flies/week
(summer programme), and about 30 million sterile flies/week (winter programme),
and

• coordinated a total of 42 statutory aerial baiting applications (with GF-120NF™)
which covered a total of more than 176’000 hectares of commercial orchards and
vineyards.

Wes-Kaapse Jeugskou Vereer Jong Presteerders na Uitdagende Jaar

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Wes-Kaapse Jeugskou Vereer Jong Presteerders na Uitdagende Jaar

Die Wes-Kaapse Jeugskou het vanjaar sy jong deelnemers op ‘n spesiale manier vereer, aangesien hulle nie die Nasionale Landbou-Jeugskoukampioenskap, wat van 22 – 25 September in Middelburg, Mpumalanga plaasgevind het, kon bywoon nie. Weens bek-en-klouseermaatreëls is die spanne van die Wes- en Oos-Kaap verhoed om aan die kompetisie deel te neem, waaraan 306 leerlinge van agt provinsies deelgeneem het.

In plaas daarvan om hierdie talentvolle leerders se harde werk en toewyding ongesiens te laat verbygaan, het die bestuur van die Wes-Kaapse Jeugskou besluit om ‘n plaaslike prysuitdeling te hou. Tydens ‘n spesiale geleentheid in Prince Alfred Hamlet is die wenners van goud-, silwer- en bronsmedaljes by die Wes-Kaap Kampioenskappe weer vereer. Hierdie plegtigheid het aan die deelnemers erkenning gegee vir hul uitsonderlike prestasies.

Verskeie toekennings is toegeken aan die deelnemers met die beste punte in verskillende kategorieë. In die afdeling vir kleinvee het Amy Turner van Augsburg Landbougimnasium die hoogste punt vir junior juniors behaal met 92%, terwyl Anré de Klerk dieselfde afdeling by die seniors met 91% gewen het. In die grootvee-afdeling het Juan Witsche van LS Slot van die Paarl uitgestaan met ‘n indrukwekkende 94%. In die kategorie vir kulinêre kunste en suiwelbereiding het Lizé-Marie Witsche, ook van LS Slot van die Paarl, 97% behaal – die hoogste punt vir junior deelnemers.

Die Augsburg Landbougimnasium is as die Beste Jeugskou-skool van die jaar aangewys, en Laerskool De Villiers Graaff het hul toetrede tot die Jeugskou gemaak. Die bestuur het ook erkenning gegee aan die ouers van Laerskool FD Conradie vir hul harde werk om die prysuitdeling te reël.

Hierdie toekennings en die viering van die jong presteerders toon die Wes-Kaapse Jeugskou se verbintenis om talent en harde werk te beloon, selfs te midde van uitdagende omstandighede.

Transnet Boosts Cape Town Terminals for Fruit Export Season

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Transnet Boosts Cape Town Terminals for Fruit Export Season

Transnet’s Cape Town Terminals, including both the Cape Town Container Terminal (CTCT) and the Cape Town Multi-Purpose Terminal (CTMPT), are preparing for a successful deciduous fruit export season with a fleet boost of over 70 pieces of additional equipment and the appointment of more operators. This strategic investment is intended to improve efficiency and streamline the export of table grapes, peaches, apricots, nectarines, plums, and cherries to international markets. Apple and pear harvests, starting in January, will continue exports throughout the year. Last season about 80% of all deciduous fruit exports from South Africa were shipped from the Port of Cape Town.

 Fruit Industry Collaboration and Transparent Engagement

Fruit industry leaders have welcomed the transparent and productive engagement facilitated by Transnet’s local and national management, which marks a collaborative turning point. The progress made to date to enhance infrastructure and machinery availability at the Port of Cape Town and Transnet’s commitment to continuing this progress are encouraging. However, industry representatives caution that the impact of these improvements will only fully materialise over the medium to long term.

The fruit industry has also engaged with the Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer. The industry appreciates the government’s support in taking a solutions-driven approach to solving lingering challenges at the Port of Cape Town. The fruit industry said the reality was that growers, exporters, and logistical service providers should still be ready to respond to challenges that may arise during the export season. This could include implementing the use of alternative modes of shipping or shipping routes to alleviate the pressure on the Cape Town Container Terminal, to facilitate fruit reaching markets in the shortest possible time in the interest of servicing clients, meeting programme deadlines, and ensuring quality fruit upon arrival.

Shipping lines have announced the addition of sailing routes this season. This could play an important part in alleviating the pressure on Cape Town Container Terminal during peak export weeks. In addition, alternative shipping methods, such as Specialised Reefer Vessels, may again need to be utilised from December 2024 to April 2025. These options come with added costs but, are some of the most effective methods available to industry to mitigate risk.

Over the past few seasons, growers have suffered financially largely due to conditions beyond their direct control, including rising input costs, load shedding and challenges at the port. While it is encouraging to see the progress made at the Port of Cape Town due to collaboration between industry and the Transnet since last season, it will take time for the plans and actions already undertaken to filter down to the ground and orchard level.

The fruit industry said they have realistic expectations about the coming season. Whilst challenges such as equipment breakdowns, staffing issues and adverse weather conditions may arise, the industry appreciates the efforts, planning, equipment and replacement resource allocation plans made by Transnet.  Collaboration between Transnet and the fruit industry is ongoing with clear and achievable objectives.

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