Urban and Peri-Urban Farming: What You Can Grow or Raise on 1 Acre
Urban and peri-urban farming has become a practical solution for food security, income generation, and sustainable living. With just 1 acre of land, you can produce a variety of crops…
Lumpy Skin Disease in South Africa: Symptoms, Prevention & Recovery
Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) is a viral disease affecting cattle in South Africa, with significant economic implications for farmers. The disease is caused by the capripoxvirus and is highly contagious…
From Job Loss to Liquid Gold: How Calab Baloyi Built a Sunflower Oil Business in Orange Farm
Calab Baloyi is an entrepreneur from Orange Farm in Johannesburg who turned adversity into opportunity during the COVID-19 pandemic. After losing his corporate sales job, he faced financial strain and…
Commercial Livestock Farming: Cattle, Sheep and Goats on 50–100 Hectares
Commercial livestock farming on 50–100 hectares offers farmers the opportunity to generate significant income while maintaining manageable herd sizes. This scale of farming allows for efficient rotational grazing, pasture management,…
The Economic Impact of Foot-and-Mouth Disease on South African Farmers
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) remains one of the most significant threats to livestock farming in South Africa. The highly contagious viral disease affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and…
Turning Farm Waste Into Profitable Charcoal: Given Ngwamba’s Agricultural Innovation
After years of unemployment, sound engineer graduate Given Ngwamba created his own opportunity in 2019 by turning farm waste into a thriving business. He began producing charcoal using sugar cane…
High-Value Crops for 20 Hectares: From Macadamias to Avocados
Growing high-value crops on 20 hectares can significantly increase farm profitability and create long-term investment opportunities. Macadamias, avocados, and other premium crops are well-suited for commercial production in South Africa,…
Silage vs Hay: What Works Best for SA Farmers?
South African farmers face critical decisions when it comes to feeding livestock, and choosing between silage and hay can significantly impact herd health, productivity, and farm profitability. Both silage and…
Diversifying Income Streams: Fish Ponds, Vegetable Plots, and Pastures
Diversifying income streams is essential for smallholder and commercial farmers seeking financial stability and sustainable production. Integrating fish ponds, vegetable plots, and pastures on a single farm allows producers to…
A Guide to Nguni Cattle: South Africa’s Indigenous Treasure
Nguni cattle are a cornerstone of South Africa’s agricultural heritage. Known for their resilience, adaptability, and striking patterned hides, Nguni cattle are prized by small-scale and commercial farmers alike. These…
Understanding Veld Types in South Africa and Their Impact on Cattle
Veld forms the foundation of South Africa’s livestock industry, providing natural grazing for cattle and other ruminants. Understanding the different veld types is essential for effective herd management, optimal nutrition,…
Large-Scale Crop Production in South Africa: Maize, Sunflower and Sorghum
Large-scale crop production plays a central role in South Africa’s food security and agricultural economy. Maize, sunflower and sorghum dominate grain farming due to their adaptability to local climate conditions.…
