A bitter toast at Press Freedom Day
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sponsored by Bayer April 2021
A bitter toast at IFAJ NEWS
Press Freedom Day
Statement by the IFAJ Press Freedom committee
Yes, we should be enthusiastic
about celebrating the
International Press Freedom
Day on May the third.
Unfortunately, there is a risk
that the toast we raise this year
is a bitter one, and there are
several reasons to believe that
the situation is not better for
agricultural journalists than for
journalists in other sectors.
The best thing we can do right
now is to try to encourage
each other and strengthen our since Freedom House started countries on The World Press
connections with journalists who tracing a decline in democracy Freedom map with light color –
face threats and repression. in 2006. The report for this indicating a situation that is at
year downgraded 73 countries, least good if not optimal – since
Decreasing democracy and representing 75 percent of the 2013, when Reporters Without
freedom global population. Borders started to measure the
According to the latest report from World Press Freedom Index with
Freedom House, “Freedom in the The international association, its current method.
World 2021 Democracy under Reporters without Borders
Siege”, the global situation for concludes in “World Press It is also commonly known that
democracy has been declining Freedom Index 2021” that several regimes are keeping
during the last 15 years. freedom of the press has gone control of the information about
the same way. The Index was the COVID-19 situation in their
The report found that the share of published by April the twentieth. countries. They do what they
countries designated “Not Free” can to prevent journalists from
has reached its highest level There have not been so few making independent reports
1
agricultural journalism? We are Delegate Assembly in New
IFAJ NEWS not able to give a clear answer to
that question because we do not
have access to better statistics
Zealand 2015 to accept member
guilds in countries that operate
without freedom of the press.
on the actual situation. Some than Reporters Without Borders It is a criterion, that the guild is
regimes have even used their can give us, and those statistics supporting press freedom.
efforts to censor news about are not specified by journalists’
the pandemic situation and civil area of focus. The reason behind this decision
unrest – inflamed by measures is that we can better promote
to control the pandemic – as an However, it is obvious that freedom of the press by trying
opportunity to suppress media in many regimes around the to build networks and to keep as
more general ways, decreasing world do what they can to give many contacts as possible open
press freedoms. the impression that their own to colleagues trying to do their job
actions and way of governing under pressure from regimes that
their countries are the right do not tolerate criticism.
You can find ones. It is hardly much different
examples of that from for example, when it comes to The decision was made almost
the regional analyses food supply, which is linked to six years ago, and we are still
agriculture. learning. During the years, we
in the World Press have been able to welcome new
Freedom Index 2021. This brings us to the United member guilds and support them
Nation’s World Food Programme. in their activities and promote
Besides, most of us as daily According to the programme, professional development.
working journalists have been hunger has been on the rise since
able to observe the development 2015 and is back to the levels We still have a way to go, but we
by ourselves as we have been seen in 2009–2010. are working on intensifying our
following the media through the global networks. We shall hope
past year. The number of chronically hungry that the world is going to win the
people has increased from 629 struggle of COVID-19, which also
Public mistrust of million in 2014 to 688 million would make it easier to create
journalists people in 2019. About one billion and to keep up contacts between
The public mistrust of journalists people in low and lower-middle- colleagues.
nowadays does not make our income countries do not have
job easier, either. Reporters sufficient Anyhow, the situation entails
without Borders refers to the that journalists in free countries
2021 Edelman Trust barometer, We cannot explain all increasing protected by national and
published in January this year. hunger with climate change, international rules have
droughts or other weather to support and encourage
The barometer reveals a disasters, nor with poor harvests colleagues working under
disturbing level of public mistrust or diseases. Although the pressure in countries without
of journalists, with 59 per cent population of the world has been democracy, without freedom
of respondents in 28 countries growing during the same time, to express themselves
saying that journalists deliberately there still should be enough food independently. Just as important,
try to mislead the public by produced globally to prevent we will have to do that without
reporting information they know hunger. putting our friends in danger.
to be false information they know
to be false. A mistrustful public As agricultural journalists, it is This is also a risk that has to be
may be more likely to disregard also our right to try to analyze considered. It is our responsibility
our reporting and less protective from a political point of view why as professional working
of the rights of its journalists. hunger is increasing. Is it possible agricultural journalists. It is also
today? For some of us, but hardly a part of the soul of the IFAJ
Can we report for all of us. That is one reason family: We are supporting and
independently about food for us to support each other. encouraging each other. ■
supply?
Is the situation with public Networking with We can raise a toast
mistrust, decreasing democracy colleagues under pressure
and press freedom related to In the IFAJ, we decided at the for that – as always.
2
GENERAL NEWS and Industry news
Name change for Forestry,
Fisheries and the Environment
Department
The formation of the Department of Forestry, Forestry and Fisheries (DEFF) will change on 1 April
Fisheries and the Environment is complete 2021.
now that all the relevant officials have been
transferred to the newly amalgamated
“The DEFF will in future be known
department. as the Department of Forestry,
Fisheries and the Environment
This follows the announcement of the sixth
administration in 2019, were the forestry and fisheries (DFFE),” it said.
functions were amalgamated into the Department
of Environmental Affairs, which became know the The substitution and designation of names for National
Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries. Department and Office of the Premiers and heads
thereof was published in Government Gazette 44229
The department said in a statement on Wednesday (Notice No. 172) in terms of the Public Service Act on 5
that the name of the Department of Environment, March 2021. ■
3
GENERAL NEWS and Industry news
Room for growth in
the South African
avocado sector
Jennifer Roets
Over the last five years, The Subtropical Growers’ Association
Derek Donkin, CEO of the
South African avocado sector (Subtrop). He says: “Between
South African Subtropical
45 and 50% of South Africa’s
harvested approximately avocados are exported; 10 to
Growers’ Association
125,000 tons of avocados 12% are processed into oil and (Subtrop).
per annum. The area under guacamole; and the rest is sold
commercial avocado orchards locally. About 95% of South
African avocado exports are to “In the off-season,
stands around 14,700 Europe, the United Kingdom South Africa imports
hectares, with new plantings of (UK), and Russia. The South
about 900 hectares added per African industry and government from Israel and
annum. are currently negotiating market Spain and is looking
access to the USA, China, India into importing from
and Japan,”
The avocado sector contributes to Tanzania. That will
at least 11,500 jobs on farms and
packhouses. South Africa expects
According to Joe Shaw Roberts, give us a full season
Consumer Insight Director at of of consumption in
an uptick in avocado exports this
international research company
season of 66,000 tons compared South Africa,” Dukes
Kantar, the UK avocado market
to 60,000 tons in the previous
season.
has seen astronomical growth said.
over the last five years, however,
long term growth is at risk if price Dukes expects that innovation
This is according to Derek
deflation continues in the market. in the avocado sector will
Donkin, CEO of the South African
be continual and gradual.
Trevor Dukes, CEO of the Fruit The introduction of precision
Farm Group SA (TFFGSA), agriculture and agtech are the
says to offset the price pressure areas where we will see the
expected from Europe, the South greatest innovation and the
African avocado sector needs largest leaps in the South African
to increase production from avocado sector. With existing
10 tons to at least 15 - 20 tons and new varieties and rootstocks,
per hectare. “We also need to we are already harvesting
develop alternative markets, and better than before, and we are
undoubtedly the focus on the using innovative techniques to
East is going to help us release manage orchard conditions and
some of the pressure. Finally, tree architecture. One thing we
with extended seasons - if you do not have yet that will change
Trevor Dukes, CEO of are fortunate enough to have projection, is the availability of
the Fruit Farm Group SA production in different regions - dwarf type genetic material to
(TFFGSA) one could balance the windows of plant high density. It is a little bit of
supply.” everything that adds up to a lot. ■
4
GENERAL NEWS and Industry news
SA Dairy Product
of the Year:
Third triumph
for Woolworths
Mature Gouda
Lactalis South Africa’s 10-months Mature
Gouda, made especially for Woolworths, was
crowned the South African Dairy Product of the
Year for an unrivalled third time at the South
African Dairy Awards on Friday 26 March
2021 at Cavalli Estate near Stellenbosch.
This achievement is a first for the SA Dairy
Championships, celebrating its 188th year of
existence.
The Gouda, an aromatic and full-flavoured cheese,
was one of almost 900 dairy products from 68
producers that vied for the attention of the 60
judges. From the big number of entries, only eight
were honoured with the Qualité mark of excellence having the choice Extra Mature Gouda named as
(full list of the crème de la crème below) and 106 the Product of the Year for an unprecedented third
– the winners in each championships class – were time.
named SA Champion.
“In addition, this is also the fourth
“For a product to be chosen as Dairy Product of the
Year in a competition of this nature is the dream of time we’ve claimed the overall
every cheesemaker,” says dairy expert and chief top award in five years. Team
judge Alan Fourie. “That the honour befalls this LSA’s hard work, dedication and
year’s winner of the prestigious title for the third
time, is exceptional. ambition to produce top quality
products have once again paid off.
The Woolworths 10-months Mature Gouda truly is We are immensely proud of our
a product that has stood the test of time, but also a
proof of the continued use of excellent ingredients. 2021 SA Dairy Championships
Technically and gastronomically it is as close to performance.”
perfection as a cheese product can come.”
Warzywoda also complimented Agri-Expo on
Marek Warzywoda, General Manager: Lactalis organising “yet another successful SA Dairy
South Africa (LSA), says his team is overjoyed at Championships and Awards”. ■
5
GENERAL NEWS and Industry news
Only major Dairy Competition
worldwide during Covid-19
The SA Dairy Championships Agri-Expo would like to thank the Western Cape Department
has been presented by Agri- the Platinum partner Synercore of Agriculture, Condio, Hollard,
as well as all the other partners the Milk Producers’ Organisation
Expo with great success since of the SA Dairy Championships (MPO), The Dairy Mail,
1834. According to Johan for their commitment to the Woolworths, MANE, Orchem,
Ehlers, CEO of Agri-Expo, development of the dairy industry, Polyoak Packaging, IMCD and
most important international namely AECI Food & Beverage, Tetra Pak. ■
dairy events worldwide
were cancelled in 2020 and 2021 QUALITÉ AWARD WINNERS
Clover – Frankfort (2) Mooi River Salted Butter
postponed in 2021.
Clover Salted Butter Mini Tubs
Lactalis South Africa Woolworths Mature Gouda - 10
“The South African Dairy
(Ladismith) (2) Months Matured
Championships is in fact the only
Président Mature Gouda - 6
major dairy championships in the
months Matured
world that took place in 2020 and
De Pekelaar Boerenkaas De Pekelaar Boerenkaas Old
2021,” says Ehlers. “To make this
possible, we had to adjust the Famous Brands Cheese Steers Processed Cream Cheese
judging process to two days and Company Spread - Onion and Chives
present the awards as a hybrid Fairview Cheese Company Woolworths Chevin with Garlic and
event.” Herb
Fair Cape Dairies Checkers Vanilla Flavoured
According to Ehlers, the Custard
large number of entries and
extraordinary products entered For more information and full results please visit
this year are reasons to be www.cheesesa.co.za or
optimistic about the future of the contact Agri-Expo at +27 (0)21 975 4440 or
dairy industry in South Africa: cheese@agriexpo.co.za
“This year’s results testify to an
innovative industry and healthy Join the conversation on social media with
competition between individuals, #SADairyChamps #SADairyAwards @AgriExpo1
small and medium businesses, as
well as national and international The SA Dairy Awards can still be viewed at
companies.” www.cheesesa.co.za/sa-dairy-awards
6
GENERAL NEWS and Industry news
Agri SA en vennote maak ’n
vars impak met Covid-19-
voedselverligting
Nadat Agri SA in 2020 ’n Een van die begunstigdes is
betekenisvolle verskil in die die organisasie Afrika Tikkun.
Total South Africa werk al
lewens van baie mense ge- ses jaar saam met hulle en
maak het, loods hy op Woens- ondersteun hulle kinder- en
dag 31 Maart sy 2021-oor- jeugontwikkelingsprogram.
skotvoedselhulpveldtog by die Afrika Tikkun se visie is om ’n
einde aan kinderarmoede en
Joburg Market. jeugwerkloosheid te maak. Die
organisasie implementeer sy
Die eerste veldtog vir 2021 is bekroonde Cradle-to-Career
’n samewerkingspoging met (C2C) 360°-model in vyf
die Mike Loutfie-stigting, Total townships regoor Suid-Afrika. manier kom ons nader daaraan
South Africa en die RSA Group, om die Reg op Kos ’n werklikheid
en sluit R110 000 in skenkings te maak.”
en ’n beraamde 30 ton se vars Hierdie holistiese
produkte in. Begunstigdes benadering, wat Die kospakkies sal aan al vier
sal kospakkies ontvang wat fokus op onderwys, Afrika Tikkun-sentrums versprei
bestaan uit voedsame, vars word, naamlik Orange Farm,
produkte van hoë gehalte – iets voeding, gesond- Diepsloot, Braamfontein en
wat huishoudings in moeilike heid, maatskaplike Alexandra.
omstandighede dikwels nie kan welsyn, persoonlike
bekostig nie. “Die Mike Loutfie-stigting,
ontwikkeling en vaar- in die hartjie van die
“Dit is ‘n groot voorreg vir digheidsontwikkel- varsproduktebedryf, is
Agri SA om deel te wees van ing, is ontwerp om ’n opgewonde om sy vennootskap
sakevennote soos Total South met Agri SA voort te sit om
Africa, die Mike Loutfie-stigting jongmens te omskep werklike en onmiddellike
en die RSA Group, wat soveel in ’n selfversekerde voedselhulp te bied waar dit die
aandag gee aan gemeenskappe volwassene wat toe- nodigste is,” sê Jade van Buuren,
in nood. Die gevolge van die bedryfsbestuurder.
Covid-19-pandemie word steeds gang tot die ekono-
daagliks gevoel en die behoefte mie het. Die voortslepende Covid-19-
aan voedsame kos is ’n harde pandemie, tesame met Suid-
werklikheid. Agri SA het sedert Alex Meulenberg, uitvoerende Afrika se algemene ekonomiese
die aanvang van die pandemie hoof van Afrika Tikkun, probleme, hou steeds baie
na behoeftige gesinne en beklemtoon hulle fokus voedingsuitdagings vir heelwat
gemeenskappe in Suid-Afrika op voeding: “Aangesien mense voor. Dit is positiewe
uitgereik, en het in 2020 byna voedselsekerheid in 2020 ’n nuwe samewerking soos hierdie een
400 ton gesonde kos afgelewer,” dringendheid begin kry, het ons wat ’n tasbare impak maak deur
het Andrea Campher, risiko- en ons vennootskapsbasis uitgebrei om te gee oor die gesondheid
rampbestuurder van Agri SA, om kwesbare gesinne te help om en welstand van ons kwesbare
gesê. voedsame kos te kry. Op hierdie burgers. ■
7
GENERAL NEWS and Industry news
What you need to know about
African Swine Fever to protect
your piggery African Swine
Fever (ASF)
African Swine Fever is a highly are largely ignored while they Northern Cape and KwaZulu
are confined to places like Africa. Natal. Since 2012, a broader
contagious viral disease of
However, the recent rapid spread infection rate has been noted
wild- and domestic pigs of all to especially China, has greatly outside of the controlled area.
age groups. It is important increased the international focus Occurrence of outbreaks have
to note that African Swine on the disease. been noted in various provinces
such as Northern Cape, Gauteng,
Fever is not the same virus
One of the best resources to Free State, Western Cape,
as Classical Swine Fever nor refer to when anyone needs Eastern Cape, North West.
Swine Flu viruses. more information on infectious
livestock diseases is the world Up to date recent outbreaks
ASF is a global disease renowned Anipedia - https:// occurred in Western Cape
responsible for serious production www.anipedia.org. Afrivet and North West Provinces.
and economic losses. The ASF proudly supports Anipedia and According to the Department of
virus spreads rapidly and can is an affiliate of this resource Agriculture, Land Reform and
cause a mortality rate of up to platform. The only particular way Rural Development (DALRRD),
100%. Why is this disease feared to keep this virus out of your the disease is transmitted by
globally you might ask? piggery is by implementing and contact with infected wild (usually
maintaining good biosecurity asymptomatic carriers) or
The reason is that there is no principles. Historically South domestic pigs, indirect contact,
vaccine or treatment for this Africa has a ASF controlled through ingestion of contaminated
disease, which is one of those area which consists of Limpopo, material (e.g., food waste,
typical “orphan diseases” which Mpumalanga, parts of the feed, or garbage), contact with
8
contaminated people, vehicles, or If a pig unit/farm/piggery has a limited to fences, gates, shower
equipment. suspected or confirmed case of or changing facilities.
ASF, the infected premises will • Good disinfection protocol for
The incubation period is 3-15 be placed under quarantine. Dr. vehicles and foot dips.
days, which is the time from when de Beer is committed to the task • Make use of a reliable feed
the animal is first exposed to the of educating the public about the source and as far as is possible,
virus to when it starts showing importance of biosecurity. do not feed swill.
clinical signs suggestive of ASF. • If swill must be fed, it should
Symptoms include, but are not Farmers are urged to take first be boiled and sterilised for
limited to, high temperature responsibility and have the best at least an hour before feeding
(fever), not eating, red/purple biosecurity measures possible in it to pigs. (According to Act 35
discolouration of the skin around place. It is important for each pig (1984). ■
the ears, legs and lower part of farmer to have good relationship
the belly, vomiting, diarrhoea, with a private or state veterinarian Ultimate biosecurity
coughing, difficulty breathing, and to report any abnormalities
abortions and a high mortality in the herd. It is important that all test question:
rate. producers understand biosecurity Are you sure
principles and seek advice from everyone and
In South Africa, ASF the correct sources.
everything entering
is classified as a Good biosecurity principles are your unit is not
controlled disease, the only way pig keepers can
carrying a potential
Animal Diseases keep the dreaded disease out of
their piggery. It is important that risk of transmitting
Act, 1984 (Act 35 of you know your “enemy”, this virus a disease into your
1984). can stay viable in blood, faeces,
piggery?
other tissues for long periods.
Therefore, if you are a vet or an
owner who suspects ASF, based The producers need to know how
on clinicals signs or presence to build their “fort”/piggery in order
If your answer is
of high mortalities, you need to to keep the “enemy” out: no, you learn about
report this to your local state • Source pigs from a reliable ASF and biosecurity
veterinarian immediately. The source.
state officials will investigate and • Controlled human and animal
measures to protect
take samples. access that includes but is not your piggery.
9
Photo by Vlad Chețan from Pexels
GENERAL NEWS and Industry news
Increased rainfall has a rising
effect on animal disease
transmission
SAVC
Biosecurity entails following securing the financial longevity for terrestrial code to enhance
preventative measures through farm owners through limiting the international trade. Secondarily,
loss of animals to disease. the rules are to regulate the
risk awareness in pre-empting
livestock agent’s industry with
the spread of new diseases specific reference to required
On 13 November
from entering a farm or precautions that must be taken
production unit.
2020, the Biosecurity at auctions (as a second level of
Rules for Livestock detection for animal diseases)
Aspects relating to biosecurity Agents were to reduce the risk of spreading
that should be considered are published in controlled, notifiable, and other
not only limited to acquiring new animal diseases.
livestock but expands over a
Government Gazette
broader feature concerning the 43900, Board Notice The rainfall thus far during
transportation of animals, people, 135 of 2020. January and February 2021 has
equipment, and vehicles. The shown a significant impact on the
best defence against risks is These rules are primarily to spread of disease, and farmers
to implement good biosecurity ensure that the South African must explore all reasonable
practices at farm level. Quick Livestock and Game industries aspects of biosecurity and the
and simple measures built into comply with the World Animal implementation of procedures to
the daily practices will help in Health Organisation (OIE) curtail the spread.
10GENERAL NEWS and Industry news
With rivers, dams to be displayed. “Implementation Mr Menye
of a structured immunisation
and pans filling up, programme is paramount as a reiterated that, “The
insect numbers are preventative measure and is responsibility lies
essential to maintaining good
increasing, and with animal health and welfare,
on all stakeholders,
this, insect-borne whilst also reducing the impact and although the
diseases are on the of disease transmission in pets disease may still
and livestock.” says Mr Mongezi
increase. Menye, CEO for the SAVC. find its way onto
Practical guidelines that extensive
your farm through
livestock farmers can follow Implementing an other avenues, early
include checking the health effective on-farm intervention is the
status of new animals before biosecurity plan can
they are bought; appointing a key to containing
be costly, but not
Biosecurity practitioner that is outbreaks and
registered with the South African nearly as costly as
Veterinary Council (SAVC), ensuring that there is
losing some or all the
i.e. veterinarians and/or para- less financial impact
veterinary professionals who livestock on a farm to
were trained in biosecurity, such a disease. on all farm owners in
as animal health technicians South Africa.”
and ensuring that all animals While having a well-designed
are procured through registered biosecurity plan that is carefully The advantages of healthy
agents with the Agricultural followed by everyone associated animals will not only be important
Produce Agents Council (APAC), with a farm is not an absolute to the seller but will also play an
which is now a compulsory guarantee against infectious integral role in consumers’ buying
element of the Agricultural diseases entering the farm, decisions.
Produce Agents Act, Act no 12 the benefits associated with
of 1992. 2 In keeping with all containing outbreaks and Consumers will have peace of
requirements within the Act, new reducing the need for additional mind over the health of livestock,
animals must be kept separate vaccines that come with heavier and a positive relationship
from livestock for 14 days so that price tags and limited stock is between buyers and sellers will
they can be monitored, allowing simply an outlay that you cannot be maintained to the benefit of
time for any disease symptoms afford not to pay attention to. the industry. ■
11GENERAL NEWS and Industry news Celebrating a new international partnership Sauvignon Blanc, as the most- exported varietal of South Africa’s wines, is one of the country’s finest internationally known brands. Sauvignon Blanc SA is therefore proud to announce a Platinum Partnership with international brand EVER srl, based in Italy, and represented in South Africa as EVER Solutions. This exciting new partnership rings in a new era for South African Sauvignon Blanc. “Over the last fifteen years we have built the Sauvignon Blanc SA brand together with our Platinum Partner FNB,” says RJ Botha, Chairperson of Sauvignon Blanc SA. 12
GENERAL NEWS and Industry news
Beanstalk PMA table grapes.
“Sauvignon Blanc is a
great example of the
complexity and diversity
of South African wines,
and likewise, FNB offers
innovative and diverse
financial services
that assist producers
with developing new
Clayton Swart.
vineyards and increasing
production.” More information about the Sauvignon Blanc SA
#SauvBlancDay Celebrations and participating wine
“We are excited about the involvement brands are showcased at
of our new Platinum Partner, EVER www.sauvignonblanc.com/sauv-blanc-day
Solutions, who is a leading producer
of winemaking biotechnologies and Anyone interested can also contact
processing aids that work closely Sauvignon Blanc SA at
with winemakers in the development, reinette@sauvignonblanc.com or
improvement and best applications of 021 975 4440.
solutions for wine production.” ■
13GENERAL NEWS and Industry news
NERPO announces the
retirement of its MD,
Mr Aggrey Mahanjana
The founder and the Group
Managing Director of NERPO,
Mr Aggrey Mahanjana has
decided to take an early
retirement as the Managing
Director of NERPO as from 1st
April 2021.
However, the members of
NERPO have requested him Image: www.nationinconversation.co.za/aggrey mahanjana
to extend his stay as the Non-
you do not know or see what
Executive Chairperson of the
He further confessed is going on, on an hour-to-hour
organization, just to allow for a
basis you are bound to be slow in
smooth transition over the next that running a making success of your farming
three year.
commercial farm enterprise,” said Mr Mahanjana.
This followed the untimely and be a full-time
Mr Mahanjana is living a team of
passing away, of Mr Paradise employee at the capable persons who understand
Mahlangu who served as
chairperson of NERPO for the
same time does not the industry matters, and he will
also continue to contribute to the
past 10 years, u
ntil he died three work. The saying
industry matters, both as a full-
months ago. by the Afrikaans time farmer and Chairperson of
Mr Mahanjana said he has been speaking people, NERPO. Dr Florence-Nherera will
in the meantime act as the CEO
contemplating about stepping “Ver van jou plaas of NERPO, until further notice. ■
down as an active operator of nader jou skader” is
NERPO since 2019, but the
outbreak of Covid-19 in January very true.
2020, compelled him to stay, until For more information,
the Emerging Livestock farmers “Farming is about day-to-day and please contact:
got a chance to reorganise hour-to-hour decision making, Congress Mahlangu
themselves as strong voice at a guided by the circumstances of @083 245 2294 or
District Level. the moment. If you are far and
14GENERAL NEWS and Industry news
Syngenta
launches new
fungicide seed
treatment
Syngenta recently announced establishment help maximize our latest fungicide discovery,
that its newest corn and genetic yield potential. picarbutrazox, to the market.
Syngenta’s long history of
soybean seed treatment, “We are proud to offer VAYANTIS® success in the seed treatment
VAYANTIS® fungicide, has fungicide, a new seed treatment segment makes them the ideal
received registration by the to the market confirming our company to deliver this novel
U.S. Environmental Protection position as a global leader in product to U.S. farmers.”
the seed treatment space” said
Agency (EPA). Jonathan Brown, Global Head of VAYANTIS® fungicide contains
Syngenta Seedcare. picarbutrazox, a new seed
VAYANTIS® fungicide contains the treatment developed to protect
active ingredient picarbutrazox, “Picarbutrazox, with its novel corn and soybean seedlings from
a completely new systemic mode of action will strengthen key diseases such as Pythium
fungicide seed treatment Syngenta’s leading Pythium VAYANTIS® fungicide brings a
developed to protect seedlings portfolio of MEFENOXAM™ major innovation to the control
from key blight and damping-off technology and azoxystrobin in of Pythium diseases and adds
diseases, such as Pythium and corn, soybeans, canola, oilseed a novel mode of action to
Phytophthora, in many different rape, cereals and other crops. Syngenta’s leading Seedcare
cropping systems. Discovered by Nippon Soda, this portfolio, supported by best-
is a great testament to the fact in-industry expertise and the
This new registration will help that both companies identified Seedcare Institute Global
protect plant health and support the needs in the seed treatment Network Picarbutrazox was
farmers to grow more productively space, and, with Syngenta discovered by Nippon Soda and
and sustainably. Seedcare’s leadership, we now licensed to Syngenta under the
can bring a product to the market. terms of a global seed treatment
The introduction of VAYANTIS® Syngenta is committed to building licensing agreement. ■
fungicide represents one more partnerships with third parties
tool to help growers combat early- when the potential impact of joint
season disease with less inputs action is greater and when, of
and offset variable environmental To learn more visit
course, it increases the benefits
conditions associated with www.syngenta.com and
to farmers,” added Jonathan
climate change. Reinforcing www.goodgrowthplan.com
Brown.
Pythium protection at the seedling
stage, allows farmers to adopt Follow us on Twitter at
Chinami Yokota, Nippon Soda
reduced or no-tillage cropping www.twitter.com/Syngenta
Director of Development
systems, protect the soil and and
Department, noted that “Nippon
avoid costly replants. In addition, www.twitter.com/SyngentaUS
Soda is excited to partner with
stronger emergence and stand Syngenta Seedcare to bring
15GENERAL NEWS and Industry news Global acquisition by Netafim to support food security and strengthen local greenhouse industry’s access to technology Netafim, the global leader of precision irrigation solutions and agricultural projects, announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Dutch turnkey greenhouse projects provider, Gakon. Netafim has been active in the greenhouse market for several decades and is now expanding its offering in the production and supply of top-tier greenhouse projects to meet the increasing demand for the most advanced farming methods. In Southern Africa, Netafim’s activity in the greenhouse industry is driven by Vegtech Netafim. Vegtech Netafim has been providing greenhouse solutions in Southern Africa for more than two decades, with this acquisition it will be even more equipped to serve this market. “Gakon offers highly specialised technology and expertise in greenhouse systems, and we have already been using many of these systems in some of our advanced greenhouse projects. These technologies and the accompanying expertise will 16
GENERAL NEWS and Industry news
now be even more accessible to fertigation solutions for orchards, The expanded offering will
Vegtech Netafim and its clients,” vineyards, and other open leverage Netafim’s capacity as
says Barney Isralls, managing field agriculture in parallel with a holistic destination for farmers
director of Vegtech Netafim. Vegtech Netafim’s work in the of year-round crops and farm-to-
The company can offer these greenhouse sector and especially table local produce.
technologies to its clients with with turnkey greenhouse projects.
immediate effect and will bring it It will further support the
into the market as required. “We are very proud to be part company’s continued drive
of a global group of companies to support efforts towards
The acquisition will combine that band together to progress food security and sustainable
Netafim’s global presence and agriculture worldwide. agriculture across the globe. ■
expertise in precision agriculture
and Gakon’s advanced The acquisition will support an
greenhouse technology. industry that is key to our local Enquiries:
The resulting strengthened economy and we are pleased to Netafim South Africa:
greenhouse offer will allow be associated with this watershed +27 21 987 0477
Netafim to better support moment in the history of the infoza@netafim.com
agricultural industries such as global greenhouse industry,” says
blueberry, medical cannabis, and Etienne Erasmus, managing Vegtech Netafim:
undercover vegetable production director of Netafim South Africa. +27 021 987 6980
across the globe. “We are, as always, committed info@vegtech.co.za
to offer the best irrigation and
Netafim’s entity for irrigation and fertigation equipment selection Media enquiries:
fertigation solutions in Southern as well as advanced agronomic Marike Brits
Africa, Netafim South Africa, will and technical support to both our 072 185 5157
continue to provide irrigation and dealers and end-users.” Marike.brits@netafim.com
17GENERAL NEWS and Industry news
Unieke aanlyn-
konsep: Boks
voer vir ’n boer
Waar lê die fokus van
hierdie droogtehulp
konsep?
Die sentrale deel van die HOEKOM DAAR? hulle diere te voer. Hulle het geen
Die breë publiek sal nooit besef ander heenkome nie. Geen ander
Noord-Kaap waar moedige
dat slegs ‘n handjievol boere keuse as om daar te bly nie.
boere steeds wag vir reen, is Ook GLO hulle in daardie wêreld.
slegs strepies reën in daardie
boksvoervirnboer se fokus- gebied gekry het nie. Hulle het daar grootgeword. Hulle
is steeds lief vir die wêreld wat
gebied.
hulle nou so op hul knieë het.
Die afwagting en Hulle was gewoond aan droogte
Dit lê wes van Vanwyksvlei en siklusse.
Carnavon, af na Sutherland
angstigheid was
en Frazerburg, om na die voelbaar met goeie Hulle kon dit met kundigheid
somer- reënvalgebied noord bestuur. Die weiveld is soos
van Calvinia, op na Brandvlei,
reëns wat om hulle
beskuit, vertel hulle. Jy kon dit vir
die hele Boesmanland, 100 km geval het. En nou is jare bêre en dit sou steeds die
noord van Loeriesfontein, na die nodige voorsien om die skaap
Pofadder omgewing, oos van
dit reeds 19 April, die
deur te kry. Maar hierdie droogte
Springbok na Aggeneys, deur tyd vir somerreëns is hou nou net te lank aan. Alles is
Pofadder, noord na Kakamas en tot niet. En tog beskaam die hoop
suid tot by Kenhardt.
weereens verby.
nie.
Die leser kan gerus ‘n kaart HOE WERK BOKS VOER
gebruik en die sirkel trek. Dit WAAROM BLY BOERE
DAAR? VIR N BOER?
is gewoonlik bemagtigend om Tik “boks voer vir ‘n boer” in
Want die meeste boere het
presies te weet waar die nood is. op jou soek-enjin (google). Die
geen keuse nie. Hulle het ALLE
finansiele bronne gebruik om webtuiste bied jou al die inligting.
18GENERAL NEWS and Industry news
Jy ontmoet die boere wat nou op Geen bokse word gepak en WIE STAAN AGTER DIE
die konsep is. Daar is foto’s van gestuur nie, daar is geen vervoer PROJEK?
hulle. nie, geen koolstofvoetspoor en Elria Steinberg is die ‘ou siel’
geen logistiek nie. Jou aankoop en stigter van die konsep. Sy
Hul plaasname en ‘n kort storie word direk in die boer se is boervrou naby Hendrina
oor hulle. Jy word die geleentheid rekening inbetaal. Hy is welkom in Mpumalanga, maar is ‘n
gebied om aanlyn een van 4 om die fondse aan te wend na gebore Namakwalander en later
produkte te kies vir een of meer behoefte. Boesmanlander.
van die boere.
BOKS VOER VIR N BOER is Thea van der Merwe is ons jong
n NPC en jy ontvang dadelik ‘n
Produkte behels: formele Bank-bewys van betaling
prokureur en sorg dat die ou siel
tegnologie bemeester.
‘n Boetie-boks, ‘n na die boer, asook ‘n Artikel 18 A
serifikaat vir SARS aftrekking op Jack Radford is ons bemarkings
Pappa-boks, ‘n Oupa- jou donasie. ghoeroe. Hy werk as siviele
boks en ‘n Menere of inginieur op Secunda, maar het
Maatskappy-boks. Dit op Askam grootgeword. ■
is virtuele bokse voer
en die boer gaan laai KONTAK ONS:
Facebook: Boks Voer vir n Boer
die voer by sy naaste E-pos: boksvoervirnboer@gmail.com
Whatsapp: 082 387 9889
Koöperasie.
Website: https://boks-voer-vir-n-boer.myshopify.com/
19IFAJ NEWS
IFAJ will be presenting 3 webinars in the month of May in partnership with the Swedish, Finnish
and Argentinian guilds, all the details available on the IFAJ website.
https://www.ifaj.org/webinars-webinars-webinars/42377/
“Agricultural Reporting “The Beauty & “Animal
- A Crash Course for The Beast of Cloning
Newbies” Digital Media” Technology”
7 May 2021 at 09h00 GMT 13 May 2021 at 14h00 GMT 17 May 2021 at 14h00
With Dr. Gabriel Vichera,
With Linda Grimstedt, Swedish With Tuulikki Viilo, Finnish
Argentinian biotechnologist,
agricultural journalist agricultural journalist
Kheiron Biotech
Presented in Spanish
Presented in English Presented in English with simultaneous translation
into English
IFAJ portal
Remember to sign up to the IFAJ Portal: https://portal.ifaj.org/
IFAJ virtual congress
IFAJ virtual congress 21-23 June 2021
20Corporate member NEWS
Nuwe NWK-winkel in Vryburg
NWK Retail Vryburg het onlangs sy deure amptelik geopen! Dit bring die aantal winkels in die NWK
Retail-stal op 43 te staan. Dié winkel spog met ‘n wye reeks produkte wat tot produsente en ander
verbruikers in hierdie gebied se behoeftes spreek.
Heinrich Krüger, voorsitter van NWK se direksie knip die lint, terwyl Pieter Coetzer (heel links),
bestuurder van kleinhandelbedrywe by NWK, Stefan Venter (winkelbestuurder van NWK Retail Vryburg),
Cas Venter, operasionele bestuurder van kleinhandel en Theo Rabe, hoof- uitvoerende beampte van
NWK, toekyk. Let wel: maskers is afgehaal vir die neem van die groepfoto
21Calendar
KALENDER Upcoming IFAJ
Boer van die Jaar Noord/Farmer of the congresses
15 October 2021
Year North Function:
2022 – Denmark
Boer van die Jaar Nasionaal/ Farmer of the
19 November 2021
Year National 2023 – Canada
17 – 20 Augustus 2021 NAMPO Bothaville: 2024 – Switzerland
8 – 10 September 2021 Nampo Kaap: Bredasdorp 2025 – Israel
2026 – Kenya
2027 – Croatia
Africa Agri Tech 2021 Date
Change Announced
As 2020 draws to a close it is evident that the current Covid-19 restrictions would negatively
impact on a February 2021 date for the second edition of Africa Agri Tech.
We have therefore revisited the date discussion and reserved the venue as follows:
Expo Dates: Tuesday 22 – Thursday 24 June 2021
Venue: Sun Arena, Time Square, Menlyn Maine, Pretoria
The three-day conference programme will focus primarily on profitability, the need to embrace
technology and examining which technology to implement and economic impact.
The event is also extending to embrace:
- Women in Agriculture
- Innovation Start-Ups
- Farming Training and education workshops
22Foto’s van die maand
Die eerste koue van die winter kom oor
die Kaapse berge
The first cold of the winter appearing over
the Cape mountians
Fotos/Photo’s: Alani Janeke
23Stuur vir ons jou stories Send us your stories
Alle lede word uitgenooi om bydraes vir Agripen All members are invited to send contributions to
voor die 15de van elke maand te stuur aan Agripen before the 15th of each month to
Magda Du Toit, magda.du.toit@outlook.com of Magda Du Toit, magda.du.toit@outlook.com or
Petrie Vogel, petrie@abevents.co.za Petrie Vogel, petrie@abevents.co.za
Secretariat sponsored
by Health Squared
Petrie Vogel
+27 (0)74 051 3318
petrie@abevents.co.za
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