Farmers in Bethal Strengthen Winter Farming Skills at AFGRI Farmers Day Focused on Animal Health and Crop Management

Farmers from Bethal and surrounding farming communities gathered at AFGRI Bethal yesterday for a focused Farmers Day that centred on livestock care and crop management during the winter and dry season. The event brought together producers facing Highveld farming conditions, where cold winters, dry spells and fluctuating rainfall create major production challenges. The session aimed to equip farmers with practical knowledge that can improve yields and protect animal health during high-risk seasonal periods. It also created a platform for knowledge sharing between agronomists, veterinarians and input suppliers. The gathering reflected the ongoing need for adaptive farming strategies in South Africa’s changing climate conditions.

A key focus of the event was crop management tailored to Highveld conditions, especially for staple summer crops such as maize, sunflower and soybeans. Experts explained the importance of planting at the correct time to maximise rainfall use and avoid frost damage during early growth stages. Farmers were guided on selecting seed varieties that are better suited for local soil types, moisture levels and temperature fluctuations. Attention was also given to soil preparation techniques that improve germination and reduce early crop stress. Input specialists highlighted how hybrid seed selection can improve resistance to drought and pests while maintaining yield stability under unpredictable weather patterns.

Livestock management formed a major part of the discussions, with a strong emphasis on winter care practices. Farmers were advised on the importance of vaccines and preventative treatments to protect animals from seasonal diseases such as liver fluke, internal worms and external parasites. The sessions also covered the use of vitamins, minerals and supplements to support livestock immunity during colder months when feed quality often declines. Veterinary experts explained how to identify signs of stress, fever and reduced feed intake early, allowing for faster intervention and reduced animal losses. Proper housing, shelter and feeding routines were also highlighted as essential components of winter livestock care.

Foot-and-mouth disease was another critical topic addressed during the Farmers Day, with detailed discussions on transmission, symptoms and prevention. Farmers were reminded that the disease spreads rapidly through direct contact between infected and healthy animals, as well as through contaminated surfaces and movement of livestock. Clinical signs such as fever, blisters in the mouth and lameness were explained to help farmers identify infections early. Biosecurity practices such as controlled animal movement, disinfection of equipment and limiting farm access were strongly emphasised. These measures are essential to protect both individual farms and the broader agricultural economy in the region.

Stakeholders including Sensako, Syngenta, AFGRI and Kyron Agri contributed technical expertise and practical insights throughout the event. Their involvement helped bridge the gap between research, agricultural products and on-the-ground farming practices. Farmers had the opportunity to engage directly with industry specialists and ask questions relevant to their own production systems. This interaction strengthened local farming knowledge and supported more informed decision-making for the upcoming season. The collaboration between private sector partners and farmers highlighted the importance of shared responsibility in improving agricultural productivity.

The Farmers Day at AFGRI Bethal reinforced the importance of continuous learning in agriculture, especially in regions affected by seasonal variability and climate pressure. By focusing on both crop production and livestock health, the event provided a balanced approach to farm management during the winter and dry season. Farmers left with practical tools and updated knowledge that can improve resilience and productivity on their farms. The engagement also strengthened networks between producers and industry stakeholders, supporting long-term agricultural development in the Highveld. The session demonstrated how targeted knowledge sharing can directly support food security and sustainable farming in South Africa.