Farmer's Inside Track

In this episode of Farmers Inside Track, we explore the ins and outs of running a successful mixed farming enterprise. Drawing on years of experience, Loyiso Mbete offers practical strategies for balancing crops and livestock, planning around market demand, and making the most of every resource on the farm. 

From the importance of gravel roads and fencing to the role of record-keeping, biosecurity, and risk management, this conversation is packed with valuable insights for small-scale and new era farmers looking to build profitable, sustainable businesses. 

As consumer pressures ease in 2025, South Africa’s vegetable prices stay up, shaped by climate, supply and seasonal cycles.

Tune in for vegetable market insights.

Download the Absa AgriTrends Spring 2025 here: https://bit.ly/agritrends25

As South Africa’s water landscape evolves, sustainable management and ESG insights are key to navigating risk, boosting resilience and creating long-term value.

Tune in for insights on sustainable water management in agriculture.

Download the Absa AgriTrends Spring 2025 here: https://bit.ly/agritrends25

US tariff measures are shaking up global agriculture, and South Africa is not immune. Despite worries over inflation and market stability, the world economy shows early resilience.

Find out what’s at stake and how to stay ahead.

Download the Absa AgriTrends Spring 2025 here: https://bit.ly/agritrends25

South Africa’s 2025’s high-value export season entails fierce competition with countries facing lower tariffs such as Chile, Peru, Morocco and Kenya.

Discover which crops could benefit from shifting shipping routes, and which will fight harder for EU shelf space.

Download the Absa AgriTrends Spring 2025 here: https://bit.ly/agritrends25

Beef prices are rebounding, driven by stronger incomes, festive demand and tighter supply from foot-and-mouth outbreaks.

What’s next for livestock sector recovery? Find out now!

Download the Absa AgriTrends Spring 2025 here: https://bit.ly/agritrends25

Shifting trade patterns and China’s shifting demand are reshaping global grain flows, while locally maize and soybeans stay strong and wheat remains at the mercy of global prices.

Explore the why and how with the vodcast.

Download the Absa AgriTrends Spring 2025 here: https://bit.ly/agritrends25

In this episode, we meet DJ Meades (33) from Petrusburg, a farmer who believes that training his employees also makes him stronger. 

With 12 years of farming experience, he manages two enterprises, grows vegetables, and proudly runs a pecan tree nursery he established himself.

DJ shares how he has adapted management practices to increase profitability, expanded irrigation, and modified equipment to improve efficiency and time management.

Beyond the farm, he plays an active role in his community as a member of the Perdeberg Farmers’ Association and by supporting local saf...

In this episode, we explore how Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are revolutionising farming across South Africa. Dr Tara Southey, post-doctoral researcher at Stellenbosch University and founder of TerraClim, shares how farmers can use heat maps, temperature profiles, and drone data to make smarter, more profitable decisions. 

From visualising soil nutrient concentrations to tracking hours of heat or coolness that affect plant growth, Southey explains why aligning with terrain variables can directly boost returns. 

Whether it’s integrating satellite imagery, aerial photography, or precision drone mapping, this conversation reveals how farmers can use GIS...

In this episode, we take you inside Molatek’s uncompromising world of quality assurance, where every bag, block, and bucket of feed carries the weight of responsibility to farmers and their animals.

Erin Graham, Technical Manager at Molatek Malelane, reveals why quality control is the heartbeat of the company. From sourcing raw materials to the final product that reaches farmers’ hands. 

She explains how Molatek’s team, systems, and traceability practices go far beyond compliance, building a foundation of trust with farmers across South Africa and beyond.

Discover why intra-Africa trade is extremely crucial for promoting economies, leveraging the continent's vast resources (population, arable land), and scaling up economic growth. We tackle the challenges faced by small producers in accessing export markets due to structural constraints, costly undertakings, and infrastructure gaps.

The series calls for the removal of red tape, significant investment in physical and digital infrastructure, stable regulatory frameworks, and addressing corruption to attract investors and foster seamless trade within the continent.

This episode underscores the powerful truth that "trade is better than aid" for empowering communities and...

Before a single seed is planted, a silent but critical job is being done to ensure a bountiful harvest. In this episode, we're exploring the world of the seed analyst, the unsung hero of our food supply. 

Brought to you by the South African National Seed Organisation (SANSOR), we talk to logistics and quality assurance manager Sarah Schulze about this fascinating and essential career.

You’ll discover how seed analysts use science to ensure seeds are healthy and ready to grow, why their work forms the very foundation of quality for the ent...

For farmer and community leader Tienie Prinsloo (36), agriculture is more than a livelihood. 

After 15 years of farming alongside his father, he has built a thriving operation that includes pecan orchards, a Beefmaster stud, and sugar beans. His passion for pecans shines through as he expands his orchards with thousands of new trees each year, aiming for an ambitious 40,000 trees in the future.

But Tienie’s story goes beyond the farm. As chairman of the Hoopstad Agricultural Society, a member of Grain SA, and director of the Hoopstad Sport Academy, he is deeply com...

Investigate the evolving landscape of fair trade in dynamic markets like Kenya and South Africa. While awareness and demand for fair trade products are growing due to international exposure, we examine significant barriers such as price sensitivity, limited product availability on shelves, and the need for greater consumer awareness.

Learn why fair trade is more than just a certification—it’s a "brand that does good"—and how effectively telling impact stories and the critical role of independent auditing are vital to connecting consumers with the true ethical claims of products.

We also e...

Women have always been the backbone of agriculture, yet their contributions are too often invisible. In this episode, we spotlight SoilSistas - programme by Corteva Agriscience that is breaking systemic barriers for rural women farmers in South Africa.

Join us as Betty Kiplagat, government and industry affairs leader for Corteva Agriscience Africa Middle East, shares the vision, impact, and inspiring stories of women who are rewriting the future of farming. 

Discover how women once confined to the margins are now building thriving businesses, mentoring others, and shaping a more inclusive, resilient agricultural f...

Want to breed a better herd? In this episode, we're diving deep into the science of bull performance testing with expert Delight Kgari, an animal scientist specializing in genetics and breeding from the Agricultural Research Council (ARC).

Discover why judging a bull by looks alone isn't enough and how a data-driven approach can transform your livestock operation. We'll unpack the crucial indicators of a top-performing bull, from fertility and body condition to structural soundness. 

Learn how to use proper record keeping and regular evaluations to make informed decisions that ensure long-term genetic s...

Once the cornerstone of African diets, sorghum is making a powerful return to South Africa’s fields. With deep cultural roots, exceptional drought resilience, and impressive nutritional benefits, it’s proving to be more than just a heritage grain. 

In this episode, Reggie Mchunu, key accounts manager at Pannar, unpacks why sorghum is a game-changer for farmers facing climate uncertainty, rising input costs, and shifting markets. 

From bird-resistant hybrids to new health trends and even biofuel potential, discover why this ancient crop might just be the smart farmer’s best-kept secret.

Unpack the crucial role of women across the value chain, who are driving change within African agriculture. We highlight Fairtrade’s comprehensive gender strategy, which includes standards for protection, enhancing leadership capabilities, economic development, and addressing gender-based violence.

Hear how specific initiatives, like the Women's School of Leadership program, are designed to build self-esteem, self-confidence, and entrepreneurship skills, ensuring women's voices are heard and their needs are met.

The series also addresses the systemic challenges women face, such as limited access to land tenure, leadership positions, water, sanitation, and technology, as well as...

Feeding people while protecting the planet and agricultural workers is no easy task. In this episode, we chat with Mary Willemse, campaign manager at BASF about how they’re helping rural communities use agricultural chemicals safely and wisely. 

From hands-on training to life-saving safety tips, discover how farmworkers are being empowered to protect their health, the land, and their future.

For too long, historical barriers have limited who gets to succeed in South Africa's wine industry, but now, the Wine and Agricultural Ethical Trade Association (WIETA) are working together to change that.

Their initiative, the Black Producers Support Programme, is a powerful force for change, helping to reshape the industry into one that is more inclusive, diverse, and socially responsible.

We sit down with Liane Langeveld, WIETA's manager of operations, to learn how this groundbreaking programme is creating opportunities for historically excluded black producers and brands. Phil Bowes, manager of industry transformation advisory at South Africa...

Vumile Mzinzi is no ordinary farmer. After building a successful career as a pharmacist, he returned to his family's farm in the Eastern Cape, combining his medical expertise with his passion for agriculture. 
In this episode, we hear about his innovative approach to farming. He shares how his background in medicine gives him a unique edge in crop production, and how he's building a sustainable future for his community. 

Discover how Fairtrade Africa empowers farmers to combat climate change threats by supporting them to not only grow food but also grow people. Learn about innovative interventions like clean energy adoption for cooking and lighting, dynamic agroforestry (intercropping food crops within cocoa farms), and beekeeping, which diversify income streams and ensure food security.

We confront the harsh realities of pressing climate challenges such as erratic weather patterns (extreme temperatures, heavy rains leading to flooding and landslides), and the increased prevalence of diseases and pests. We also highlight how the Fairtrade Premium is directly used by farmers for...

In this episode, we focus on what South Africa’s Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) control efforts mean for farmers on the ground. 

Veterinary expert Prof Ishmael Jaja explains how the disease spreads, why multiple virus strains make control difficult, and what practical steps communal and small-scale farmers can take to protect their livestock. 

Whether you farm cattle, sheep, goats or pigs, this is essential listening for anyone affected by or concerned about FMD.

This episode is a deep and heartfelt conversation with Mmadipilo Letlape, a dynamic livestock farmer and founder of Nature Nation Camp. Through her personal story, Mmadipilo unpacks the realities of being a woman in agriculture, especially when navigating male-dominated spaces and family dynamics.

Hear how she carved her way into farming. She opens up about her early mistakes, financial challenges, and the tough lessons learned, including the devastating loss of a prized bull. 

She also shares how her passion for farming and event planning merged into an innovative agritourism venture that now b...

Thinking of growing sorghum? Discover expert tips on top varieties, ideal planting times, and why this drought-resilient crop could be one of your most profitable moves yet.

Agronomist and PhD researcher Hammond Motsi breaks down everything you need to know. From planting and regional suitability to pest control and market potential. 

He also explores how sorghum stacks up against maize in input costs and yield, and why it’s gaining ground as a sustainable, climate-smart option for the future.

When planting season rolls around, your seed choice might seem like a small detail, but it could be your biggest decision.

In this episode, we dig deep into maize hybrid selection with Reggie Mchunu, key accounts manager at Pannar. He breaks down why not all hybrids are created equal and how factors like yield potential, disease resistance, standability, and adaptability can determine your farm’s success, or struggle.

Reggie shares practical advice on building a hybrid package, how to match hybrids to seasonal forecasts, and more. 

In this episode of Farmer’s Inside Track, we’re joined by a true trailblazer — Lesedi Gaabue, the first Black woman to graduate in town planning from North West University. But her journey doesn’t stop at the drafting table.

Lesedi is also a passionate poultry farmer, raising broilers in the rural parts of North West. She opens up about her unexpected entry into farming, the costly lessons of her early days, and how she turned setbacks into a thriving agribusiness.

We talk about women empowerment, learning the hard way, navigating male-dominated industri...

In this episode, we sit down with Siziphiwe Jojo, agricultural economist and head of business at Agricast Advisory Services, to unpack the essential elements of a strong agribusiness plan.

Jojo explains why a business plan is more than just a funding tool; it’s a strategic roadmap for long-term success. 

From aligning your goals with funders to mastering financial projections, she walks us through the seven key components every farmer should include, whether you’re growing crops or raising livestock. 

No rain, no gain? Not quite. In this episode of Food For Mzansi, we dive into the water challenges facing Western Cape farmers, and the cost-effective solutions they are adopting to survive and thrive. 

We also spotlight GreenCape’s upcoming Water and Energy Resilience Roadshow, a free initiative bringing expert advice and practical tools directly to farmers and agri-businesses across the province.

GreenCape’s Senior Water Analyst, Nkululeko Mabila, and Communications Officer, Tyrese Rooi, share what farmers can expect from this hands-on support tour, including one-on-one consultations, decision-making tools, and networking opportunities with...

In this episode, we sit down with Henrey Gibbs, a first-generation, self-taught livestock farmer from Klerksdorp, North West. Henrey shares how a trip to a Mafikeng auction sparked a lifelong passion for farming, and how goats became a strategic cashflow supplement to his beloved cattle. 

We dive into the challenges of navigating agriculture without formal training, the filtering of advice from mentors, and the financial balancing act of a mixed livestock operation. 

Henrey also opens up about co-owning Nature Nation Camp, a thriving agritourism venture, and how he juggles farming with offering unique visitor experiences.

In this inspiring episode of Farmer's Inside Track, we meet Musa Nhlapo, a passionate wine entrepreneur from the township of Kagiso.

With grit, vision, and guidance from the South Africa Wine Industry Professional Body (SAWIPB), Nhlapo is building Adisa Wine, a brand rooted in growth and possibility.

Kachné Ross, executive manager of SAWIPB, shares how the organisation is revolutionising talent development in the wine sector.

In this episode, we explore why Kalahari Red goats are becoming the breed of choice for many South African farmers. 

Join us as we speak to Leroy van de Merwe of Redstag Ranch in Limpopo. From the breed’s remarkable adaptability and meat quality to practical advice on breeding, culling, and managing performance.

We also bust the myth of the "low-maintenance" goat, as van de Merwe highlights how small-scale and communal farmers can benefit from introducing Kalahari Red genetics to improve productivity and profitability.

Ready to take your farm to the next level? Join us for a lively panel discussion where we’ll explore how South African farmers, both seasoned pros and newcomers, can use smart financing and precision agriculture to build more profitable, sustainable businesses.​

Our panel of experts will break down how to access the right funding at every stage of your farming journey, manage cash flow like a pro, and navigate common challenges around lending and getting the equipment you need.​

We’ll also dive into the exciting ways technology is reshaping agriculture, from boosting efficiency to unloc...

Beyond the Field, aangebied deur John Deere Financial en gefasiliteer deur Anrich Herbst, bring Antois van der Westhuizen (besturende direkteur, John Deere Financial) en Pieter Pienaar (kredietverkope en bemarking, John Deere Financial) saam om met kundiges te gesels oor finansiële vennootskappe en boerdery as besigheid.​

Corné Louw (landbou-ekonoom, Graan SA) en Marlene Louw (senior-ekonoom, Absa) deel ekonomiese insigte, terwyl Luan du Toit (Senwes Equipment) en William Nichols (Afgri Equipment) die praktiese kant van tegnologie en ondersteuning bespreek.​

Die episode bied strategiese idees, oplossings en waardevolle insigte vir elke boer wat volhoubaar wil groei, met John Dee...

In this episode, we sit down with Mosa Balesamang,  an animal scientist, livestock consultant, and passionate sheep farmer making waves both in the field and on TikTok.

Mosa shares her journey from earning her degree in Animal Science in 2017 to serving in Botswana's Ministry of Agriculture, and how her work in cattle insemination and livestock consulting is helping reshape the future of farming in the region.

We also dive into her growing influence on social media, where she educates and empowers aspiring farmers through her popular sheep farming content.

If you think farming has nothing to do with your dinner plate, think again.

In this episode, we’re crossing over to our sister publication, Food For Mzansi’s Farmer’s Inside Track podcast for a special feature that dives into sustainability and the red meat on your plate.

Frik van Rooyen from the Red Meat Producers’ Organisation (RPO) joins the conversation with a powerful message about sustainability isn’t just a buzzword, but the future of farming.

From smarter water use and healthier grazing to cutting back on ch...

After 44 years in agriculture and over two decades in the wine industry, Rydal Jeftha, managing director of Koopmanskloof Wines, knows that the future of South African wine lies in its people.

In this episode, Jeftha shares his journey from navigating the industry without a mentor to becoming one of its most passionate champions of skills development and knowledge transfer.

We dive deep into his philosophy on mentorship, the critical role of organisations like the South African Wine Industry Professional Body (SAWIPB), and why careers in wine go far beyond the cellar. 

In this episode, we dive into one of the most overlooked threats to crop production, free water or gravitational water, and how it affects South African farmers across different provinces. 

Soil scientist Peter Mudau breaks down what free water is, how to identify it, and why proper management is crucial for healthy soils and productive yields. 

From recognising signs of waterlogging to choosing the right crops and improving drainage, this episode offers practical advice for farmers working with varied soil types and unpredictable rainfall.

In this episode, we sit down with legal expert Pearl Gibbs, an attorney, conveyancer, and notary public, who unpacks the most pressing legal challenges facing South Africa’s new-generation farmers.

From contract negotiations with powerful agricultural companies to navigating the complexities of long-term land lease agreements, our guest shares crucial legal strategies to level the playing field. 

Learn how to mitigate risks of price volatility, weather impacts, and non-compliance from buyers through smart contract clauses and legal protections.

We also explore key steps farmers can take to bui...

In this episode, we chat to Kevin Pieterse, an experienced farm manager and Kyron Agri representative, who unpacks practical strategies for controlling and managing endoparasites in livestock. 

From understanding different types of internal parasites to choosing the right dewormers and implementing effective treatment timelines, Pieterse offers valuable insights every farmer should know. 

Whether you're dealing with wireworm, liver fluke, or tapeworms, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help protect your herd and improve overall animal health.