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Western Cape Leads in Conservation Agriculture, Hosts 9th World Congress

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Western Cape Leads in Conservation Agriculture, Hosts 9th World Congress

Yesterday, 22 July 2024, the Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, officially opened the 9th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture in Cape Town.

Conservation agriculture is a farming system that promotes minimum soil disturbance, permanent soil cover, and plant species diversification (crop rotation).

It enhances biodiversity and natural biological processes above and below the ground surface, increasing water and nutrient use efficiency and improving and sustaining crop production.

Professor Johann Strauss, the chairperson of the local organising committee and the senior scientist responsible for Sustainable Cropping Systems Research

with the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDOA) describes the Western Cape as the “Heartland of South African Conservation Agriculture.”

Professor Strauss added, “The Western Cape boasts the country’s highest adoption rate of conservation agriculture. Delegates will learn about the unique and international best practices in conservation farming and the uniquely South African conservation farming experience.”

During his opening address, Minister Meyer highlighted that conservation agriculture is a globally recognised management practice that effectively mitigates and supports adaptation to climate change. He further stated that conservation agriculture research in the Western Cape dates back to 1996.

Minister Meyer said, “Back then, the WCDOA started its long-term conservation agriculture trials, demonstrating the significant financial benefits of this practice.”

“Today, these trials are part of the Global Long-Term Experimental Network, based at Rothamsted in the UK, a testament to our efforts’ success and global recognition,” he continued.

Minister Meyer also thanked farmers who have adopted conservation agriculture.

Minister Meyer praised these farmers: “In the development of conservation agriculture locally, we must acknowledge and remember the role of the former grain farmer and pioneer Jack Human, who hails from the Southern Cape.”

“Today, our department continues to play a pioneering role in promoting the adoption of conservation agriculture as a best practice and one of the priority projects in its SmartAgri Plan”, added Minister Meyer.

The Western Cape Government’s (WCG) proactive stance has encouraged more farmers to adopt conservation agriculture, setting a precedent for other provinces and countries. Cereal-producing areas of the Western Cape have reached a 51% adoption rate of the complete conservation agriculture package.

According to Dr Ilse Trautmann, Deputy Director General of Agricultural Research and Regulatory Services at the department, the SmartAgri plan – the first provincial sector plan for agriculture in South Africa and the roadmap to climate change resilience in the Western Cape- is widely acknowledged and accepted.

Minister Meyer stressed, “The adoption of conservation agriculture benefits agriculture and the environment. South Africa must build a resilient agricultural sector in the face of climate change.”

The Congress ends on 24 July 2024 with a practical day at the WCDoA’s Langgewens research farm.

To learn more about the 9th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture, go to: https://wcca9.org/

Shaping the Future of Fresh Produce Amid Global Challenges

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Shaping the Future of Fresh Produce Amid Global Challenges

The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) is set to host its Southern Africa Conference at the Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town on 5 – 6 August 2024. This year’s conference promises to be a pivotal gathering for industry stakeholders, offering a platform to connect, discuss key challenges, and shape the future of the fresh produce sector in the region and globally.

The two-day event will kick off with an opening reception, followed by a series of sessions addressing critical topics such as the state of the industry, presented by IFPA’s Chief Membership Officer, Miriam Wolk. Discussions will delve into geopolitical issues, post-elections in South Africa and its key trade partners, exploring their implications for the fresh produce industry.

A highlight will be the examination of port privatisation and its impact on export processes and competitiveness.

Furthermore, a panel comprising major retailers and importers will share insights on market dynamics, consumer trends, and strategies for successful market penetration.

Jane Strijdom, IFPA Country Manager for Southern Africa, emphasized the conference’s role in fostering dialogue and setting priorities to better serve the industry’s interests in both domestic and international markets. The program also includes the Women’s Fresh Perspectives Breakfast, underlining the association’s commitment to inclusive industry growth and development.

South Africa Celebrates First Avocado Export to Japan

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South Africa Celebrates First Avocado Export to Japan

South Africa exported its first avocado container to Japan, following a mutual agreement signed earlier this year aimed at expanding trade between the two nations. This landmark event signifies a significant achievement for the South African avocado industry, highlighting its potential for growth and global reach.

The shipment, which departed from Durban, the largest city in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, represents a new chapter for the region. KwaZulu-Natal, one of the emerging avocado regions in South Africa, has seen its industry expand due to the growing global demand for avocados. The successful export to Japan is a testament to the region’s rising prominence in the avocado market.

The ban on the export of Hass avocados from South Africa to Japan was lifted effective November 30, 2023. The new protocol for avocado shipment to Japan requires a cold treatment of 2°C for 19 days, ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety. This stringent process was meticulously adhered to, paving the way for this historic export.

This year, the South African avocado industry has been fully focused on opening roads in the East. South Africa’s entry into the Japanese market is a crucial step in this direction, promising new opportunities and increased export volumes. Additionally, South Africa became the third African nation to export avocados to China after signing a deal at the BRICS summit. Earlier this year, South African avocados also arrived in India via airfreight, with sea shipments expected to follow.

Traditionally, South Africa’s avocado exports have primarily been directed to Europe, the Middle East, and other Southern African countries. The successful penetration into the Japanese market signals a promising diversification of export destinations, strengthening South Africa’s position in the global avocado industry.

This milestone not only underscores the South African avocado industry’s commitment to excellence but also enhances the country’s trade relations with Japan. As the industry continues to expand, further growth and new market opportunities are anticipated, promising a bright future for South African avocados on the global stage.

Swartlandskou Vier 90 Jaar van Landbou en Gemeenskapstrots in Moorreesburg

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Swartlandskou Vier 90 Jaar van Landbou en Gemeenskapstrots in Moorreesburg

In die hartjie van die Swartland vier die grootste landbouskou in die Wes- en Suid-Kaap vanjaar sy 90ste bestaansjaar met ‘n program vir die hele gesin. Swartlandskou Moorreesburg sal van Woensdag 4 tot Saterdag 7 September 2024 die beste uit dié geweste aan 20 000 besoekers bekendstel. Die skou, met Afgri as ankerborg, is bekend vir top perde, beeste, skape en pluimvee, asook ‘n masjienerie-uitstalling van R230 miljoen.

Swartlandskou Swartlandskou

Die ‘cool’ van landbou: Van 8-span waperde tot ‘n skaapskeer-nuutjie

Die skouprogram bars vanjaar uit sy nate met landbou- én leefstylaktiwiteite. Swartlandskou spog met die grootse vleisbeesskou in die Wes- en Suid-Kaap, met sowat 400 diere wat om gesogte titels meeding.  ‘n Kleinvee-nuutjie is die Swartlandskou Skeerkampioenskappe. Besoekers kan uitsien na die BKB & FNB Slaglamkompetisie, Merino-kampioenskappe, die SA Vleismerino Super 10-kampioenskappe en die OVK-Interrasuitstalling. Meer as 400 wa-perde sal ten toon gestel word met die 8-span waperde as ‘n hoogtepunt. Sowat 230 leerders sal aan die Streek Jeugskou deelneem en die Wes-Kaap Pluimveeklub sal vir ‘n pluimvee-tentoonstalling sorg.

Die musikante Jay, Chris Else, Viljoen Retief, Dodo Nyoka, Jan Rhaap en ander sal optree, terwyl die AFGRI-damesdag met Marciel Hopkins as gasspreker en ‘n landbou-oggend met Theo Vorster as gespreksleier interessante ervarings beloof. Die kleingoed kan uitsien na ‘n kulkunstenaar, ‘n dansskool, Lollos en ‘n speelpark met toesig.

Volgens die President Jacques Bester is Swartlandskou ‘n sukses danksy noue samewerking tussen die gemeenskap en besighede. “Kom ervaar plattelandse geselligheid en kom deel in die ‘cool’ van landbou,” nooi Bester.

Toegangskaartjies sal by Ticketpro en by die hekke beskikbaar wees.
Vir meer inligting, besoek www.swartlandskou.co.za

Engage with Nature: Conservation Talk and Guided Walk at Benguela Cove

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Engage with Nature: Conservation Talk and Guided Walk at Benguela Cove

Benguela Cove Wine Estate warmly invites the public to a special conservation event at their picturesque location on R43, Hermanus, on Friday, 23 August 2024, from 10:30 to 11:30 am. This engaging session, led by the Botanical Society of South Africa’s Plant Committee, aims to deepen community understanding and involvement in the conservation of the unique flora and fauna of the Western Cape.

At this complimentary event, Dr. Martina Treurnicht, the Conservation Manager, alongside Cherise Viljoen, a Master Horticulturist from Cherish Plants, will discuss the vital conservation efforts undertaken by the Society. They will also provide practical tips on employing climate-smart gardening techniques using indigenous plants to help maintain local biodiversity.

Benguela Cove

Following the conservation talk, guests have the option to participate in a guided nature walk, ideal for both adults and children. This walk is a perfect opportunity to explore the estate’s diverse ecosystems with expert guidance. For those wishing to extend their visit, a pre-bookable lunch at the estate’s Moody Lagoon restaurant is also available.

Guests will also get to enjoy a variety of tasters, with an indigenous plant theme, including tantalizing indigenous fruit jams and fynbos honey on fresh scones. Additionally, each attendee will receive a complimentary gift, adding a tangible keepsake to the educational experience.

With only 30 seats available, early reservations are strongly recommended to avoid disappointment. This event is set to be an enriching day for all plant lovers and conservation enthusiasts.

For more information visit www.benguelacove.co.za

Agri’s Got Talent 2024: Showcasing the Remarkable Skills of SA’s Agricultural Workers

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Agri’s Got Talent 2024: Showcasing the Remarkable Skills of SA’s Agricultural Workers

Agri’s Got Talent invite South African agricultural workers to showcase their exceptional talents and contributions to the agricultural sector.

More than just a singing competition, AGT aims to shine a spotlight on the immense talent within South Africa’s farming community while recognizing the vital role agricultural workers play in driving the sector forward. Over the past decade, AGT has defied stereotypes, revealing the boundless creativity and skill of farm workers.

Open to all South African farm workers in the deciduous fruit, citrus, and wine industries, AGT offers participants an unparalleled opportunity for personal and professional growth. The top 10 finalists will embark on a transformative journey during a week of intensive training in the picturesque Western Cape. Alongside expert voice and social media coaching, finalists will receive glamorous makeovers and indulge in self-care packages.

However, the true essence of AGT lies in its self-development workshops led by accredited social workers. These sessions are meticulously designed to boost confidence, enhance self-worth, and equip participants with essential soft skills such as conflict resolution, time management, and financial literacy –  tools that will serve them well in any future endeavour. Berries ZA is sponsoring this year’s self-development workshops.

Over the years, AGT has demonstrated significant value within the agricultural community:

  • Top Ten AGT participants contribute back to their communities, acting as role models and leaders through activities like starting music groups, training others, and performing locally.
  • Their presence on farms boosts morale and productivity while fostering a sense of unity among workers.
  • The visibility of Top Ten contestants enhances the agricultural brand and showcases talent within the industry.
  • AGT Top Ten serve as exceptional agricultural ambassadors, promoting the competition and industry wherever they go.
  • AGT seasons have brought together entire farming communities, fostering a sense of unity and pride as colleagues cheer on their peers.

AGT 2024 promises to be an extraordinary celebration of talent, unity, and empowerment within South Africa’s agricultural sector.

Entries for the 2024 Agri’s Got Talent close 16 August 2024. Songs can be performed in any genre or language, so whether you’re into pop, RnB, acoustic, rap, or classical. Contestants enter the competition by sending a sound clip or video of no longer than 3 minutes via WhatsApp to 082 372 1577 or email to [email protected]. For more details, visit www.agrisgottalent.com,  or  Contact Thea van Zyl at [email protected] or call 083 642 5342 for more information.

Employers are also welcome to manage the entry process for their workers. Feel free to record all interested employees and email us all their information.

Mixed Fortunes for Agriculture Amidst Rising Dam Levels in Overberg

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Mixed Fortunes for Agriculture Amidst Rising Dam Levels in Overberg

The Overberg region, a critical agricultural area in South Africa, is currently experiencing significant weather shifts. Rojeanne de Wet from Agri Western Cape notes that despite the much-needed precipitation, the recent heavy rains coupled with an unusually warm and dry June have presented mixed fortunes for local agriculture. Fruit growers, in particular, are feeling the heat as their crops struggle with the delayed onset of colder weather needed for dormancy—a crucial phase that ensures successful flowering and fruit production later on.

Impact on Fruit Production

Typically, fruit trees in Overberg require a cold winter to enter a dormant state, which primes them for robust flowering and fruiting in the following seasons. This year’s warmer June, however, has pushed back this schedule. Despite these challenges, there is a silver lining. The region’s robust irrigation infrastructure and the absence of stringent water restrictions are expected to cushion the fruit sector against potential declines in yield.

Challenges for Grain and Livestock Farmers

The situation is more dire for canola and grain farmers. Recent floods have not only hindered essential fieldwork, such as herbicide application, but have also affected the growth of wheat seedlings, which are particularly sensitive to excessive water and lack of sunlight. Livestock farmers are also under duress; the cold and wet conditions necessitate additional measures to protect vulnerable animals, especially lambs, from the harsh elements.

Water Storage: A Welcome Relief

On the brighter side, the increased rainfall has significantly boosted local dam levels, crucial for sustaining agricultural and human consumption needs through dryer months. Key water reservoirs like Theewaterskloof, De Bos, Eikenhof, and Buffeljagsrivier Dams are reporting near or overfull capacity, which spells good news for water security in the region.

While the heavy rainfall in Overberg presents immediate challenges, particularly for grain and livestock sectors, it also offers vital water resources that may prove beneficial in the longer term. With strategic management and continued investment in agricultural infrastructure, the region can hope to mitigate the adverse effects of erratic weather patterns. As the community navigates through these complex issues, the resilience and adaptability of its farmers remain key to overcoming the climatic hurdles of today and tomorrow.

SA’s Sauvignon Blanc Stars Set to Shine in Annual FNB Top 10 Competition

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SA’s Sauvignon Blanc Stars Set to Shine in Annual FNB Top 10 Competition

While South African Sauvignon Blanc performs excellently locally and internationally, producers can now show their mettle in Sauvignon Blanc South Africa’s annual FNB Top 10 competition.

Entries open Monday 15 July 2024 for this exclusive competition which is presented for the 18th time by the cultivar group Sauvignon Blanc SA in partnership with valued title partner FNB and platinum partner Ever SA.

Identify and promote the best Sauvignon Blanc

A distinguished panel of leading wine experts, led by the Cape Wine Master Dr Winifred Bowman, will convene from Tuesday 27 August to Thursday 29 August 2024 at Uitkyk Estate in Stellenbosch to identify the country’s best Sauvignon Blanc wines. Joining Dr Bowman on the panel are Johann Fourie, head winemaker of Benguela Cove; winemaker Morgan Steyn of De Grendel; Mahalia Kotjane, owner-winemaker of Three Quarter Wines; Dr Carien Coetzee, oenologist from Basic Wine; as well as two protégés, Nompumelelo Mosaka of Hartenberg Wine Estate and Lulo Palesa of Neil Ellis Wines.

Dr Coetzee, a committee member of Sauvignon Blanc SA, has high expectations. “Every year, the FNB Top 10 represents great variety in style and origin, and this year we are particularly looking forward to innovative wooded and unwooded styles as well as interesting flavour profiles,” says Coetzee.

Twenty finalists will be announced in September, after which the ten winners will be revealed in October at the prestigious FNB Sauvignon Blanc SA Top 10 awards event.

How to enter

  • Producers can enter online at https://sauvignonblanc.com/top10-entry/.
  • The entry fee per wine is R1500 for members and R2000 for non-members.
  • The deadline for entries is Tuesday 13 August 2024, with late entries at an increased fee, accepted until Tuesday 20 August 2024.

For more information, visit www.sauvignonblanc.com, email [email protected] or call 082 808 1114. Follow Sauvignon Blanc SA on X (@SauvignonSA) and on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn (@sauvignonblancsa), and join the conversation on social media with #SauvignonBlancSA.

 

Western Cape Boosts Biosecurity to Protect Red Meat Industry from FMD

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Western Cape Boosts Biosecurity to Protect Red Meat Industry from FMD

On Tuesday, 15 July 2024, the Provincial Minister of Agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer joined state veterinarians attached to the Western Cape Government’s Beaufort West State Veterinarian Office at the local weighbridge to inspect vehicles transporting livestock through the town.

Commenting on the operation Minister Meyer highlighted that biosecurity presented a major risk to the agricultural sector and this province’s economy. “Today’s initiative is about showing my support for the steps taken by our state vets and the red meat industry to curb the spread of Foot and Mouth (FMD) Disease to the Western Cape.”

“Given the threat that FMD poses to the cattle industry, livestock owners must remain vigilant, step up their biosecurity measures and take all possible precautions to avoid introducing the disease to our province”, continued Minister Meyer.

“Following a discussion in the Western Cape Cabinet meeting today, I have requested that Minister Meyer urgently write to the Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen requesting him to implement a temporary ban on the movement of livestock into the Western Cape. I have also asked Provincial Minister of Mobility, Isaac Sileku to please provide additional support to our colleagues in Agriculture in these critical operations,” said Premier Alan Winde.

The spread of FMD poses a danger to our cattle industry, the agricultural economy and jobs in the sector. The red meat industry is one of the most important growing industries in the South African agricultural sector. The red meat industry contributes more than R70 billion to the country’s economy each year and employs over 600,000 people. In 2023, South Africa exported R4.7 billion red meat globally, whereby the Western Cape contributed 14% (R6 million) to the total.

Minister Meyer also remarked that given the seriousness of the threat he will be writing to his counterpart in the Eastern Cape,  MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe, to urge her to continue to enforce the measures outlined in Government Gazette notice 47263, issued in October 2022.

“We must work together to enforce biosecurity preventative measures regarding the movement of cattle, sheep and goats within areas outside FMD disease management areas including the Western Cape so that our farmers’ and workers’ livelihoods are not endangered.”

“I have also requested our state veterinarians to strictly enforce the current biosecurity measure and where possible explore further interventions that could strengthen our current operations.”

“Supported by the Western Cape Traffic Services officials our State Veterinarians can check livestock consignments for the correct documents, which include information regarding the origin, health status and destination of animals”, concluded Minister Meyer.

For further information and examples of all documents mentioned, please visit the Western Cape Veterinary Services website at https://shorturl.at/Hxfeo

To learn more about FMD, visit the WCDoA website: https://bit.ly/3PpeK8R

Severe Weather Disrupts Cape Town Port Operations, Impacting Trade

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Severe Weather Disrupts Cape Town Port Operations, Impacting Trade

The Port of Cape Town endured significant disruptions last week, losing over 70 hours of operational work due to gale force winds and heavy rainfall, according to the latest Cargo Movement Update (CMU) released on July 16. The disruptions come at a critical time, as emphasized by President Cyril Ramaphosa during a Climate Resilience Symposium in Pretoria. The President highlighted the shutdown of Cape Town’s port due to extreme weather as a major obstacle to South Africa’s trade, particularly affecting the timely export of perishable fruits.

Compiled by the South Africa Association of Freight Forwarders (Saaff) and Business Unity SA (Busa), the CMU report also noted that the inclement weather extended beyond Cape Town. The Eastern Cape experienced similar issues, with strong winds and vessel ranging causing significant delays. Despite the abatement of the storm, forecasts predict further adverse weather, suggesting potential ongoing disruptions.

Adding to the tumult, a container vessel operated by CMA CGM, named the Benjamin Franklin, reportedly lost 44 containers overboard off the Cape coast during the storm. An additional 30 containers suffered damage due to on-deck movement, underlining the severity of the conditions.

The Port of Durban, South Africa’s busiest container port, also faced challenges. Equipment breakdowns and operational delays were exacerbated by gusty conditions, with ships experiencing extended wait times—averaging 189 hours—to dock. As of last Wednesday, only 50 straddle carriers were operational at Durban’s Container Terminal Pier 2, down from 55 the previous week, with a total of 67 available.

This spate of disruptions underscores the vulnerability of South Africa’s port infrastructure to extreme weather events, raising concerns about the efficiency and resilience of critical trade gateways in the face of increasing climate variability.

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