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Record-Breaking Entries at 191st South African Dairy Championships

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The dairy industry set new benchmarks this year at the 191st South African Dairy Championships. The judging of this national dairy competition, the largest and oldest in Africa, kicked off on Thursday, 7 March 2024 at Eensgezind outside Durbanville, and continued until Friday, 8 March.

This year witnessed record participation, with 78 dairy producers submitting a total of 1,029 dairy products. An 86-member jury was tasked with the challenging job of reviewing these numerous entries over the span of two days.

At the SA Dairy Championships, there are more than 100 categories including a wide range of dairy products such as cheese, yogurt, milk, cream, ice cream, and butter. Winners in each category receive the prestigious SA Champion title. The Qualité Mark of Excellence, the highest accolade in the dairy industry, is awarded to outstanding products that meet a certain threshold on an international evaluation scale. The highest-scoring product among all is honored as the Product of the Year.

South African Dairy ChampionshipsBreyton Milford, General Manager of Agri-Expo, the host of the championships since 1834, expressed this society’s privilege in showcasing the dairy industry’s top quality through this esteemed agricultural event. Milford remarked, “The record-breaking number of entries underscores the confidence industry stakeholders place in this competition to set a benchmark for excellence.”

Chief judge Graham Sutherland noted the championships’ fierce competition, stating, “Our entries surpassed the 1 000 marks for the first time.” Sutherland added, “At the conclusion of the first day, I can report that the cheese entries demonstrated a commendable standard. The championships stimulate innovation, and this year once again highlighted the tireless efforts of our passionate manufacturers dedicated to exhibiting their products here.”

Sutherland emphasised the complexity of a competition of this magnitude, saying, “That’s why we have five judges per category selected from various sectors of the dairy industry, including cheese makers, quality managers, food technologists, and marketing experts.” As a seasoned food technologist, Sutherland brings many years of international experience in the sensory evaluation of dairy products. He highlighted, “Due to the record number of entries, we now have to process more than 5,000 scoresheets to determine the final results.”

Milford expressed Agri-Expo’s gratitude for the support of partners facilitating the SA Dairy Championships. “We are pleased to announce a new three-year platinum partnership with IMCD and DSM, alongside our diamond partners Chr.Hansen and Synercore, gold partners Checkers, Orchem, IFF, Woolworths, and the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, silver partners Condio and Pick n Pay, as well as bronze partner Mane.”

Linda Segalla from IMCD South Africa expressed IMCD’s commitment to supporting excellence in the dairy industry and promoting innovation and quality. Segalla stated, “Committing to the South African Dairy Championships for the next three years reflects IMCD’s long-term dedication to fostering growth and recognition within the dairy community. With our expertise and commitment to the industry, IMCD is the ideal partner to help elevate the market to new heights.”

For more information, visit www.cheesesa.co.za

Step Into Luxury: Step Into Bummel Shoes

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In the heart of George, Bummel Shoes has emerged as a beacon of quality, comfort, and style in the leather footwear industry since its inception in November 2018. Founded by Michael Stumpfe, a visionary with deep roots in leather craftsmanship, Bummel has grown from a modest beginning to a distinguished brand with a wide array of collections, three dedicated shops, and a notable presence in exhibitions. The journey of Bummel Shoes is not just a business success story, but a testament to the enduring value of handcrafted quality and innovative design.

Bummel ShoesMichael Stumpfe’s venture into the world of shoemaking was no mere coincidence, but a legacy inherited and refined over years of dedication and learning. Growing up in an environment steeped in leather craftsmanship, thanks to his father’s venture, Der Lederhändler, Michael was filled with a passion for quality leatherwork from an early age. His academic and professional journey, encompassing a three-year apprenticeship in shoe manufacturing in Germany, further studies in shoe design, and valuable experiences at renowned shoe companies, equipped him with unparalleled skills and insights into the world of shoemaking.

The Philosophy of Bummel

Bummel, derived from the German word “bummeln,” meaning to take a leisurely stroll, embodies the essence of what the brand strives to offer – utmost comfort and timeless style.

The brand’s commitment to quality is evident in its strict adherence to using only the finest local leathers, ensuring that no synthetic materials come into contact with the wearer’s feet. This dedication to natural materials and handcrafted precision has set Bummel apart in a market often dominated by mass-produced footwear.

Bummel Shoes Bummel Shoes

The Collections

Bummel’s range of products has grown significantly, now boasting an impressive array of collections including Alkina, Asante, Ashura, Azizi, Savanna, Zahara, Zuri Ballerinas, and the exotic Nguni and Crocodile ranges. The diversity in design caters to a broad spectrum of preferences, from the traditional to the more avant-garde, ensuring that there’s a Bummel shoe for every occasion. Notably, the introduction of the Zahara range, initially for men and now extended to women, underscores Bummel’s ability to innovate, while maintaining its signature comfort and durability.

Bummel Shoes Bummel Shoes

Expanding Horizons

Since its launch, Bummel has not only expanded its product range, but has also broadened its reach through strategic openings of shops. The first shop in George was soon followed by outlets in the Rosebank Mall, Johannesburg, and Sedgefield. These expansions have brought Bummel’s unique offerings closer to a wider audience, allowing more people to experience the comfort and style of Bummel footwear.

Understanding the unique tastes and needs of its clientele, Bummel offers an online custom service, allowing customers to personalize their shoes in terms of colours, materials, and sole options. This bespoke service, coupled with a comprehensive online shop, has significantly enhanced the Bummel experience, making it accessible to a global audience seeking quality, handcrafted leather shoes.

Bummel Shoes Bummel Shoes

The Spirit Behind Bummel

At Bummel’s heart is Michael Stumpfe’s commitment to quality and hands-on shoemaking. His philosophy of skill mastery and nurturing team relationships has fuelled growth. This ethos, supported by mentors, has guided Bummel through challenges to continuous innovation and success.

The Future of Bummel

Reflecting on the journey from its humble beginnings in George to becoming a distinguished name in leather footwear, Bummel Shoes’ story is a vivid illustration of how dedication, craftsmanship, and innovation can intertwine to create a legacy. As the brand looks ahead, it remains steadfast in its core values, with plans for further expansion and continual product innovation.

KAMERS/MAKERS

Bummel ShoesThe upcoming participation in the prestigious KAMERS/MAKERS in Stellenbosch and Johannesburg serves as an exciting opportunity for Bummel to showcase its craftsmanship and engage with a broader audience. Scheduled from 6 – 10 March at Blaauklippen Wine Estate, Stellenbosch, and from 1 – 5 May 2024 in Sandton, Johannesburg, these events highlight Bummel’s excellence and its status as a leading name in the South African leather footwear industry.

The brand’s journey, marked by a commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement, continues to inspire and captivate. As Bummel Shoes steps into its next chapter, it carries with it the legacy of its past, the excitement of its present achievements, and the promise of future success, reaffirming its position as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs and a reminder of the lasting value of craftsmanship and dedication.

For more information contact Michael on 082 511 9647
Email [email protected]
Shop online at www.bummel.co.za

South Africa’s Agricultural Exports Soar Amid Logistical Hurdles

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Despite challenges at the ports and in various export markets, the SA agricultural sector has continued to realise excellent export activity. Total agricultural exports reached a new record of .2bn in 2023, up 3% from the previous year, according to data from Trade Map.

The products that dominated the export list were citrus, maize, apples, pears, nuts, wine, soya beans, sugar, wool, grapes, berries, avocados and fruit juices. This improved export activity was a function of better volumes and prices. Pricing developments over the year were significantly more varied than the average data suggests. While fruit prices rose, grains and oilseed prices declined notably from 2022 levels.

The exports were widely spread across various key markets. The African continent remained a leading market, accounting for 38% of SA’s agricultural exports in 2023 in value terms. Asia was the second-largest market, accounting for 28% of exports, followed by the EU at 19%. The Americas region was the fourth largest (6%). The remaining 9% went to the rest of the world. The UK was one of the leading markets within this category, accounting for 7% of total exports.

The products exported to these markets were essentially the same, with the African continent and Asia importing a somewhat larger volume of maize, soya beans, wool and beef. Exports to other regions were primarily fruits and wine.

These robust export earnings were achieved despite challenges in SA ports and electricity supply and in critical export markets. Some credit must go to organised agriculture groupings, the government, Transnet and logistical groups that have worked to smooth export flows.

The agricultural industry has established forums to continuously engage with Transnet and enhance communication about problems at the ports so that the response could be swift and drive exports of high-value and perishable products. Still, more work is needed as this success has come at a significant cost to producers and various stakeholders in the value chain.

Trade surplus

SA’s trade is not one way. The country is also a notable importer of various agricultural products. In 2023 agricultural imports amounted to bn, down 4% from the previous year, primarily due to a decline in commodity prices, while the volume of imported products remained essentially unchanged from the past year.

The top imported products were rice, palm oil, wheat, poultry and whisky. These products originated primarily from Asia, the EU, the UK and the Americas. Considering this import value against the export value of .2bn, agriculture realised a record trade surplus of .2bn.

While the recent export expansion is encouraging, SA should stay focused on improving infrastructure efficiency and its export market expansion mission for the agricultural sector.

Agricultural exports remarkably improved in a year featuring severe load-shedding and big logistical infrastructure constraints at ports. In the absence of these constraints, exports could perhaps have been far higher even than the current level.

There is a need for increased investment in port and rail infrastructure and better road infrastructure in the farming towns otherwise the sector’s growth will continue to be constrained. Any expansion of SA’s export markets will require better-performing logistical infrastructure.

The ambition of broadening the export markets is particularly important as various countries increasingly turn inward and raise various kinds of protectionism. Such protectionist tendencies are seen in the EU, and in Southern Africa in countries such as Botswana and Namibia.

This means there is a need to work hard to retain existing markets in the EU and Africa, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas, while simultaneously searching for new markets.

Report from: Wandile Sihlobo

Minister Ivan Meyer’s Vision for Education and Training is Reshaping Agriculture in the Western Cape

When Dr Ivan Meyer was appointed the Western Cape Minister of Agriculture in 2019 he stressed that the future of a sustainable agricultural sector is dependent on new information, technological advancement, and a generation of agri-workers and youth with appropriate skills and qualifications to engage within an inclusive agricultural economy.

Speaking at the recent SA Agricultural Teaching Association National Conference on the West Coast, Minister Meyer said that education, training and research should provide the skills, knowledge and experience to secure the future of agriculture.

Minister Meyer continued, “ It is for this reason that I have advocated for an increase in training opportunities for youth and women and an increase in the number of schools with a focus on agriculture in the Western Cape. Structured education, training and research is one of my priorities. I have therefore been advocating for establishing more agricultural schools and the introduction of agricultural subjects at existing schools in the Western Cape.”

While the Western Cape currently has only three agricultural schools, the number of schools offering a curriculum that includes at least one agricultural subject has increased from 31 to 55 over the past five years.

“The 77%  increase in the number of schools offering at least one agricultural subject is good news. I appreciate how the Western Cape Education Department has responded by increasing the number of schools offering agriculture subjects and making the sector more accessible to the youth. One such school is Pelican Park High in Lotus River. The school is ideally located close to the Philippi Horticultural Area, often described as the “breadbasket” of the Metro,” added the Minister.

“The agriculture sector is a star performer in the Western Cape economy. Therefore, it makes sense for our youth to equip themselves with the skills needed to participate in a well-performing sector that plays a vital role in securing food security”, said the Minister.

Speaking about the Elsenberg Agricultural Training Institute (EATI), Minister Meyer highlighted, “The EATI remains central to the Western Cape Department of Agriculture’s work of equipping our next generation to become a skilled workforce. Over the past five years, more than 2 448 students have graduated from the EATI. In 2019, the Diploma in Agriculture, on National Qualification Framework Level 6 (NQF6), was registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and implemented in January 2020.”

“A further 17,098 individuals also benefited from the short skill courses offered by EATI. The EATI obtaining accreditation from the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) in 2022, for the following qualifications: Livestock Farmer (Supervisor) (NQF 4) and Orchard and Vineyard Foreman (NQF 3) was certainly a further confirmation of the quality of training on offer at the EATI.”

“Growing the Western Cape economy requires a skilled workforce. With the support of the WCED we will continue to invest in agricultural schools and advocate for the introduction of more agricultural subjects in existing schools”, concluded Minister Meyer.

Cynthia Sekgobela’s Inspiring Journey into Farming

For Cynthia Sekgobela, retirement in 2016 brought a bold new beginning. After 21 years as an accountant and tax consultant, she swapped her ledgers for her true passion in farming and started Gung’s Boerdry in Zuurbekom, a 2.5-hectare farm on the West Rand. As we approach International Women’s Day on 8th March, it is fitting that we should pay tribute to this dynamic, 67-year-old female agripreneur who is making a name for herself in the farming community and beyond.

“My father was a commercial farmer and a businessman in Winterveld, North of Pretoria and when he passed away in 1983, my brother took over,” Cynthia explains. “So, farming has always been in my blood, and I am so happy I could follow in my family’s footsteps as an organic farmer.”

Running the farm hasn’t always been easy with only two permanent employees and one part-time worker, limited resources and doing everything by hand for several years. However, this changed in 2023 when Cynthia started using a Husqvarna Tiller. This versatile machine quickly delivered improved efficiency and has contributed to the farm’s ability to supply 400kg of fresh vegetables per week to the Johannesburg Fresh Produce Market, hawkers and the local informal market.

“The tiller made a huge difference to our productivity. It has different attachments that do various jobs and it’s perfect for making new beds and planting crops. It’s so user-friendly that even I can use it,” she laughs.

Cynthia’s energy and passion are infectious and with food security a constant concern for many, her journey has already encouraged several people to have a bash at small-scale farming.

She shares her top five recommendations on how to start growing produce and turn it into a small-scale undertaking.

1. Urban farm garden

When starting off, you don’t need much space. Clear a 2m x 2m patch and start growing your vegetables in bags. Try tomatoes, onions and some herbs. Your soil mix is critical so make sure you buy the best quality soil possible. And you can make your own compost by using your kitchen waste.

2. Turn your produce into profit

When you have more vegetables than your family can eat, turn your farm garden into a business. It’s important to start modestly and set achievable goals. Being hands-on, patient and making smart decisions are crucial in the initial stages of farming. Set realistic targets and build a reliable network to sell your produce, thereby laying a solid foundation for growth.

3. Presentation is key

Farmers are in the business of food and your customers “eat with their eyes” so when you go to market, ensure your produce looks good. Present it in a box or plastic and pack it into brown paper bags, you can even use labels to enhance your product appeal. The same goes for the table on which your wares are displayed and what you are wearing; when you pay attention to presentation you build trust and drive sales.

4. Strategic crop choices

It’s important to stand out in the marketplace so if everyone is growing spinach, grow brinjals or onions. By exploring high-value products and diversifying produce, you will sell everything you grow at better prices. This takes some market research but you’ll get the hang of it and start to thrive in the competitive farming landscape.

5. Ensure regulatory compliance

As your farm grows, make sure your permits and paperwork are up to date as this can open doors to financial loans or potential investors. The additional capital will help you invest in essential infrastructure such as irrigation systems and equipment – both of which will streamline your operations, increase productivity and make you more money.

Cynthia’s trailblazing journey not only exemplifies the essential elements for a sustainable farming business but her story actively champions and inspires gender equality in agriculture, offering encouragement to other women and aspiring agripreneurs.

For more information or to view Husqvarna’s range of products, visit https://www.husqvarna.com/za/

KragDag bring alternatiewe na die Wes-Kaap

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Met toenemende Eskom beurtkrag, veiligheidsprobleme, dreigende waterkrisisse, ontoeganklike paaie en wanpresterende onderwys in staatskole, kan niemand meer bekostig om net te kla oor die huidige stand van sake nie. Ons moet sélf alternatiewe begin vind. Dáárom sê Sakeliga KragDag vanjaar ‘Daar is ‘n alternatief!’ by ons tweede Wes-Kaap-selfstandigheidsekspo by Môreson Plaas buite Malmesbury vanaf 21 to 23 Maart, 2024.

“Die Wes-Kaap-weergawe van Sakeliga KragDag is verlede jaar vir die eerste keer buite Malmesbury getoets en met meer as 5 000 besoekers wat die 100 uitstallers kom besoek het, het ons geweet dat ons besluit om KragDag se voetspoor te vergroot, die regte een was,” sê HP Steyn, Bestuurshoof van KragDag.

Kragdag

Die ekspo het ontstaan na beurtkrag in 2007 die eerste keer in Suid-Afrika aangekondig is, en dit duidelik geword het dat energie oplossings in Suid-Afrika noodsaaklik is vir huishoudings en klein besighede. Deesdae is daar egter ‘n groot verskeidenheid selfstandigheidsoplossings vir alle lewensterreine. Of die uitdagings nou watertekorte, watersuiwering, voedselproduksie, onderwys of sekuriteit is – planne word gemaak.

KragDag is al 14 keer aangebied op Diamantvallei Landgoed, net buite Pretoria, en het van enkele, tot sowat 600 uitstallers en van etlike honderde tot meer as 36 000 besoekers in Augustus 2023 gegroei. Sedert 2019 vorm ‘n landbou sub-ekspo ook deel van die uitstallings.

Meer oor die tema: “Daar is ‘n alternatief”

“Ons leef in ‘n onsekere tyd, met ongekende ekonomiese verval en ‘n groot deel van die probleem is dat ons só gewoond geraak het aan gebrokenheid en verval dat dit moeilik is om ‘n lewe in te dink waar dinge werk soos dit moet. Die antwoorde op die vraagstukke in ons land is beslis nie eenvoudig nie, maar dit begin sonder twyfel by selfstandigheid en individuele verantwoordelikheid. Wanneer ons sê ‘Daar is ‘n alternatief’ gaan dit oor méér as om reaktief staatsbestand te raak. Dit laat ons opnuut herbesin oor hoe ons lewens, omstandighede en gemeenskappe na regte daar moet uitsien en om self verantwoordelikheid daarvoor te neem.”

Daarom is Sakeliga KragDag soveel meer as ‘n selfstandigheidsekspo. Dit is ‘n instelling vir mense met ‘n positiewe selfstandigheidsingesteldheid vir hulself en hul gemeenskappe. Mense met ‘n filosofie van vryheid en selfbeskikking wat roepingsbewus kreatiewe en selfstandige oplossings ontwikkel en implementeer en mense inspireer om deel te neem.

Kom kyk na hierdie alternatiewe by Sakeliga KragDag Wes-Kaap 2024:

  • Jou eie kragvoorsiening as alternatief tot uitgelewerdheid aan beurtkrag.
  • Ontgin en opgaar van jou eie water as alternatief tot besmette water en wateronderbrekings.
  • Private en voorkomende gesondheidsorg as alternatief tot staatshospitale en -voorskriftelikheid.
  • Privaat- en tuisleer as alternatief vir staatskole.
  • Eie- en gemeenskapsinstandhouding van infrastruktuur as alternatief tot slaggate en ander staatsuitgelewerdheid.
  • Persoonlike veiligheidstelsels en gemeenskapssekuriteit as alternatief tot polisie-onbevoegdheid en -misdadigheid.

Besoekers kan uitsien na meer as 100 selfstandigheidtema uitstallers, ‘n Kuns en Kou Mark, ‘n verskeidenheid kosstalletjies, ‘n gesellige biertuin en wyntuin as ook ‘n pretpark. Verskeie kenners gesels ook saam in die Kopskuif Ateljee met sprekers soos Dawie Roodt, Piet le Roux, Ian Cameron, Bennie van Zyl en Theo de Jager. Aangesien entrepreneurskap ‘n belangrike element vir selfstandigheid is, bied KragDag ook ‘n Junior Entrepreneurskompetisie tydens die ekspo aan.

Toegang vir besoekers beloop R120 per volwassene by die hekke, maar vooraf kaartjies is teen 50% afslag beskikbaar by www.kragdag.co.za. Kinders onder 18 kan die ekspo heeltemal gratis besoek.

 

Launch of RovicLeers syncorseed Wheat Planter at NexusAG Small grain Conference

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The NexusAG small grain conference, held on 8 February 2024, at the stunning Eensgezind function venue, was proudly hosted by NexusAG, along with RovicLeers and Cerealis, making up the trio of esteemed sponsors for the event. Among the distinguished speakers at the event, Dr. Ronel Hendriks and Dr. Tersia Ter Haar addressed the audience on the intricate ecosystem of a plant’s rhizosphere, described as a microbial hotspot and considered one of the most complex ecosystems on earth.

Lindsay Green, Managing Director of RovicLeers, highlighted the significance of the conference as a platform for unveiling the latest generation of the Rovic Syncroseed seeder. This state-of-the-art equipment features a patented dual seeder, and a fully equipped Furrow system imported from Australia. Sterling Gooch, an expert in this field, emphasized the capabilities of the optional Furrow system, boasting a powerful 390l p/h pump, even though the farmer will only require up to 150l p/h the extra power is diverted to the mixer tank to keep your fertiliser tincture of different densities in emulsion ensuring a consistent application. According to Wessel Cloete from NexusAG, a lot of successful in-depth research has been done towards in furrow fertiliser application which increases yield per hectare and lessens input costs.
Other equipment on display was the Rovic Syncrospread in both stainless steel and steel. RovicLeers is excited to announce that their spreader has been certified by the Australian fertiliser association, certifying that they can comfortably spread out to 36 metres with less than a 15% variable coefficient and constant.

“We wish to thank everyone that enjoyed the day with us and wish everyone all the best with the upcoming wheat season.”

Rovic Syncrospread Wheat Planter

As agricultural technology continues to evolve, farmers are presented with increasingly sophisticated equipment designed to enhance efficiency and productivity. Among these innovations stands the Rovic Syncroseed wheat planter, a state-of-the-art machine equipped with a myriad of advanced features tailored to meet the diverse needs of modern farmers. From precision seeding to optimal fertilizer delivery, the Syncroseed sets a new standard for planting equipment, promising unparalleled performance and reliability in every operation.

RovicLeers RovicLeers

Unique Features

The aim of the Rovic Syncroseed is to be able to handle any terrain no matter the top soil or cover crop. The layout of the seeders has been strategically placed to minimize interplant competition resulting in more consistent and even germination. Another unique feature of the Rovic Syncroseed is the new generation tine, which has been completely redesigned as well as the three or four plastic tank configurations, and work lights fitted as standard to name but a few.

Rovic Leers

Advanced Features of the Syncroseed Seeder

Furthermore, the Syncroseed boasts a new design seeding unit with a breakaway force of 600kg at 90 bar hydraulic pressure, allowing for reliable and efficient operation. Adjustment on the seeding unit for closing wheel pressure and seeding depth is made easy, enhancing user convenience. The tine is fitted with a 16mm wide replaceable tungsten tile point for durability and precision. Additionally, the Syncroseed features patented dual seed placement for optimal seeding accuracy. For enhanced management, an In Furrow Management system can be fitted optionally to place liquid product where it is needed. The air system supply utilizes a Crary fan driven by a bent axis piston motor, ensuring reliable and high-performance service life. Furthermore, a high-capacity oil cooler is provided as standard to limit overheating of hydraulic oil.

Additional Features

Other features of this state-of-the-art machine include maximum granular fertilizer delivery of 400 kg/ha, supplied by the latest metering unit that will ensure constant and accurate metering of product, even in hilly conditions. Fine seed options are available for all models with various placement positions, including with seed, in seed furrow, next to seed furrow, or tailed behind the seeder. Seeders can be fitted with a spray boom on the front for added versatility. Different types of seed rollers are available for wheat, large pellets, and fine seed. Load balancing on wings ensures an even planting depth, while colour-coded hydraulic couplings make connections easier for the operator. With a ground clearance of 560mm at a working depth of 150mm, the Syncroseed is equipped with self-cleaning rubber-molded V-shaped press wheels that minimize the overthrow of soil to neighbouring rows. Known for its lower maintenance compared to other seeders on the market, the Syncroseed also comes fitted with working lights as standard.

In conclusion, the Rovic Syncroseed wheat planter represents a significant advancement in agricultural machinery, offering farmers the tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive market. With its innovative design, cutting-edge technology, and unmatched versatility, the Syncroseed stands as a testament to Rovic’s commitment to excellence and innovation in farming equipment. As farmers continue to embrace new technologies to improve their operations, the Syncroseed remains at the forefront, empowering them to achieve greater efficiency, productivity, and profitability in their fields.

For more information visit www.rovicleers.co.za

Graanprodusentedag 2024: Vooruitstrewendheid en Samewerking in die Landboubedryf

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Die onlangse Graanprodusentedag, wat deur NexusAG aangebied is, het op 8 Februarie 2024 by Eensgezind Onthaalsaal naby Durbanville plaasgevind en het ‘n belangrike platform gebied vir die uitruil van kennis en ervaring in die graanbedryf. Met 280 klein graanboere teenwoordig, het hierdie geleentheid ‘n sleutelrol gespeel in die bevordering van volhoubare landbou en die bevordering van holistiese gewasbestuurspraktyke.

NexusAG heg waarde aan die bou van langdurige verhoudings met toonaangewende plaaslike en internasionale verskaffers, bedryfsliggame en produsente. Hulle is verbind tot die bevordering van volhoubare landbou deur die ontwikkeling van holistiese, pasgemaakte gewasbestuurs-programme wat voeding en gewasbeskerming integreer en produsente ondersteun regdeur die produksiesiklus – van voor-plantvoorbereiding tot na die oes.

Die dag het gefokus op die belangrike rol van biologiese produkte, die nuutste markneigings as ook die bespreking oor ‘n onafhanklike proef-program wat die impak van invoor-voeding ondersoek het, ‘n praktyk wat reeds suksesvol in lande soos Australië geïmplementeer word. Die proef het ‘n opbrengs van tot 410% op die belegging getoon, met die top agt behandelings wat selfs ‘n 708% opbrengs op belegging getoon het. Hierdie inligting is van kardinale belang vir produsente wat strewe na die optimalisering van hul opbrengs en netto-inkomste per hektaar.

Verskeie gassprekers het hul spesialiskennis gedeel, insluitende Kevin Snyman, Hoofbestuurder van NexusAG, Wessel Cloete van nexNu-Tri, Dr. Johann Strauss, Dr. Ronel Hendriks, en Dr. Tersia ter Haar wat ‘n bydrae gelewer het oor onderwerpe wat strek van bewaringslandbou tot biologiese benaderings vir droëland-graanproduksie.

Sterling Gooch van Australië het ‘n tegniese aanbieding gedoen waar hy voeibare toedieningstelsels bekendgestel het. Die betrokkenheid van borge in die graanbedryf, soos RovicLeers en Cerealis, het ook ‘n bydrae gelewer tot die sulkses van die dag deur die bekendstelling van nuwe tegnologieë en produkte wat die produksie-effektiwiteit kan verbeter.

Corne Krige, oud-rugby speler het belangrike lewenslesse oor leierskap gedeel. Hierdie byeenkoms het dus nie net waardevolle tegniese kennis gedeel nie, maar het ook gedien as ‘n inspirerende platform vir die aanmoediging van leierskap in die landboubedryf.

The Retirement Collection: Premier Retirement Living in Western Cape

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Nestled in the picturesque Western Cape, known as the country’s premier retirement destination, The Retirement Collection promises to provide you with unparalleled peace of mind as you enjoy a secure and enriching retirement experience.

Explore Devmark Property Group’s esteemed estates within the Retirement Collection, featuring De Zwartland Manor in Malmesbury, Langebaan Manor in Langebaan and Helderberg Manor in Somerset West.

With estate features such as state-of-the-art security, clubhouse, library, well equipped gym, and more, residents can enjoy both convenience and beautiful surroundings within one of the lively retirement communities. The

Retirement Collection offers different options from Luxury Homes, Luxury Apartments and Assisted Living Suites starting from R950 000.

Fall in love with your retirement and uncover a life filled with purpose!

For more information visit www.retirementcollection.co.za

Transformative Impact of Clanwilliam Dam Project

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The Clanwilliam Dam extension, a pivotal infrastructure development in the Cederberg municipal area, promises to herald a new chapter of growth and prosperity in the agricultural sector.

With a generous R4 billion investments earmarked for this project, the Western Cape is set to witness a significant transformation, particularly in its farming communities. The project’s scope includes raising the dam wall by 13 meters, effectively expanding the water serving capacity from 15,000 to 26,000 hectares. This expansion is not just a matter of infrastructure; it’s a lifeline for the agricultural community and a catalyst for economic development.

The implications of this project are far-reaching. Over the next five to ten years, it is projected to generate an astounding 70,000 direct and indirect jobs in agriculture. This surge in employment opportunities is a beacon of hope for many, promising to invigorate the local economy and uplift the Cederberg area. The increased water capacity will ensure that farmers, especially those previously constrained by water scarcity, can now look forward to a more secure and prosperous future.

This is particularly significant for crops that are integral to the region, such as rooibos tea, citrus fruits, and potatoes, which stand to benefit immensely from the increased water availability.
The Clanwilliam Dam project is more than just an infrastructure development; it’s a strategic investment in the future of agriculture in the Western Cape. It represents a concerted effort to address water scarcity, one of the most pressing challenges facing the agricultural sector today. By enhancing water security, the project not only secures the livelihoods of existing farmers, but also opens doors for emerging farmers, thereby promoting inclusivity and diversity in the sector.

Furthermore, the project is a testament to the power of collaboration between government entities and local communities. The involvement of local businesses and the establishment of a business forum to ensure that small and medium enterprises benefit from the project highlight a commitment to inclusive economic growth. The Clanwilliam Dam extension is poised to be a cornerstone of agricultural and economic revitalization in the Western Cape. By providing much-needed water resources, creating thousands of jobs, and fostering a collaborative environment, the project sets a precedent for sustainable development and resilience in the face of challenges.