DIE JOERNAAL VIR DIE VRUGTEBEDRYF IN SUID-AFRIKA APRIL/MAY '20
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D I E J O E R N A A L V I R D I E V R U G T E B E D RY F I N S U I D - A F R I K A A P R I L / M AY ‘ 2 0
The breakthrough soluon for effecve and
ecological FRUIT FLY MANAGEMENT
is now available in South Africa.
InteliGro recently received the green light from DAFF for the registraon of CeraTrap®.
This bait and trap product is new to the South African agricultural industry and brings a
new way in the control of the most important fruit fly species growers face in crop producon.
ducon.
Besides the recognised fruit fly species, Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceras capitata), Marula fruit flyy
(Ceras cosyra) and the Natal fruit fly (Ceras rosa), CeraTrap® also controls the Oriental fruit flyy
(Bactrocera dorsalis). Developed in Spain, CeraTrap® is successfully used in many countries over the
world. It has been tested extensively in South Africa for the past four years. ®
technology.
tech
techn
chnol
olog
ogyy.
og
CeraTrap® is currently registered for use in Citrus, Stone Fruit, Pome Fruit and Table Grapes. ®
technology
ttec
echn
echnol
hn olog
ologyy lilies
og es iin
n th
thee
The key benefits of using CeraTrap®
• Highly effecve in fruit fly control
• Easy and precise applicaon – no spray equipment needed
• Safe for the environment – drowning by mass-trapping
• No negave impact on beneficial insects – IPM-focus ™
• No risks to humans or local and exported crops – zero residues
• Suitable in a dual strategy of both damage control & populaon suppression.
CeraTrap® is a protein-based bait and trap that can be used for seasonal populaon management.
As fruit fly control is a numbers game, applying CeraTrap® for populaon management, will add a lot
of value in minimising populaon build-up can be added in the pre-and early-season periods.
Considering the phytosanitary risks and financial losses associated with the presence and damage
caused by fruit flies, CeraTrap® is a certain soluon for sustainable fruit fly management.
CeraTrap® is based on the highly effecve mass trapping technique and will play a crucial role
as part of InteliGro`s InteliBio Soluons range and Integrated Crop Soluons approach.
Contact your InteliGro Crop Soluon Specialist for expert advice.
Reg. No.: L 10728, Act no. 36/1947. Registraon holder: Intelekt Crop Soluons (Pty) Ltd,
a wholly owned subsidiary of InteliChem (Pty) Ltd. Co. Reg. No.: 2014/042423/07.
Kathrein Wine Estate, Annandale Road, Lynedoch, 7603, South Africa, Tel: +27 21 881 8500
WELLINGTON: Tel: +27 21 873 6177
VILJOENSKROON: Tel: +27 56 343 3444
info@inteligro.co.za www.intelichem.co.za
EDITORIAL
We’re more tenacious
than we think
T
CATHERINE
he latest GDP figures from Stats SA – released at the Hoe dit ook al sy, ek dink
time of writing this – is a classic case of an anti-climax. nie ons gee onsself genoeg
MILWARD-BRIDGES
The figures marked a mere 0.2% growth for 2019, the erkenning vir als wat ons al as Editor: SAFJ
third recession since 1994, and SA losing first place to ‘n bevolking bereik het, en hoe
Nigeria as the largest economy on the African continent. lofwaardig ons algemene hou-
This came shortly after the country had just welcomed the good ding is nie. Ek doen dit sommer nou: dankie vir elke Suid-
news from Minister Tito Mboweni’s Budget Speech, with a sub- Afrikaner wat (so tussen die geheime trane deur) aanhou om
stantial public sector wage bill cut; and for us, a R495.1 million te hoop en ander rondom ons (veral ons kinders) te bemoedig
allocation to the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and om positief te bly.
Rural Development was a boon. Die landbou – waar deursettingsvermoë ‘n basiese voorvereiste
Talk about a rollercoaster ride! is – is propvol voorbeeldige Suid-Afrikaners wat eenvoudig aan-
Though this is nothing new to South Africans, and our “gees” hou met aanhou. En in die vrugtebedryf blyk ons boere op een
and sense of humour have become tried-and-tested coping of ander manier altyd slaggereed te wees om die volgende
mechanisms, it’s really important for us to stop and check our uitdaging met positiwiteit aan te pak, aan te hou om oplossings
“pulse” every now and then. te soek, en saam te staan. As die res van die land maar net
hierdie voorbeeld wou volg.
Ons is al deur sóveel saam, dat dit al vir ons as Suid-Afrikaners
soos tweede natuur is om net aan te hou vasbyt, en dan na But, as the saying goes: the show must go on. It’s a busy time
elke greintjie hoop te gryp wat sy opwagting for our industry, being at various stages of
maak (of dit nou eg is of nie). Ongelukkig het the seasons. And we hope that the focused
Covid-19: implementation of risk management strate-
hierdie tendens ons al aan soveel teleurstel-
For updates, please visit gies will show in our harvests (notwithstand-
ling en seer blootgestel, dat sommige van
ons eenvoudig net onverskillig met die lewe www.nicd.ac.za/www.who.int/ ing factors that are completely out of our
aangaan, of aanhoudend met oorweldigende join the SA gov. WhatsApp hands).
verwyt en haat worstel. Maar daar is nog dié group by texting ”Hi” to We hope you find good value in the
van ons wat maar aanhou hoop. Daar is egter 060 012 3456. featured articles. And write to us, to
geen regte of verkeerde reaksie nie – ons trek Stay safe. start a new letters page:
mos almal swaar. editor@safj.co.za. ✤
ADVERTISEMENTS
Opinions expressed in advertisements and promotional articles are not necessarily those of the SA Fruit Journal.
We do not accept responsibility for damage or injuries which may arise from possible inaccuracies. All rights reserved.
None of the content may be used in any other media without the prior consent of the SA Fruit Journal (Pty) Ltd.
SA FRUIT JOURNAL SSN: 1683-4577
Ignatius Vlok | 082 331 2127 | sales@safj.co.za
SA FRUIT JOURNAL | APRIL/MAY 2020 1
D I E J O E R N A A L V I R D I E V R U G T E B E D RY F I N S U I D - A F R I K A A P R I L / M AY ‘ 2 0
VOLUME 19 | PART 2
SAFJ (SA Fruit Journal) is also available in electronic format
on our website. | SAFJ (SA Vrugtejoernaal) is ook elektronies
beskikbaar op ons webtuiste.
www.safj.co.za
ELKE UITGAWE | EVERY ISSUE
Editorial 1
SA Fruit Journal Board of Directors 4
Foreword 5
At the kitchen table: Tumeric 68
The last word: Henko Vlok 70
BEDRYFSNUUS | INDUSTRY NEWS
FPEF
Export - getting it right bears fruit 6
HORTGRO
No beating around the KBOS 10
Angelo Petersen - New Hortgro Director 12
Mariëtte Kotze joins PPECB Board 13
The Normat choir’s songs of hope 14
Hortgro grows agri leaders 16
SU research excellence awards - recognising entomologists 18
Sagtevrugtebedryf skenk kospakkies aan Klein-Karoo 20
Langkloof geruk deur fratsongeluk 22
2 SA VRUGTEJOERNAAL | APRIL/MEI 2020
SIZA
22 SIZA appoints market ambassador
CITRUS GROWERS’ ASSOCIATION (CGA)
24 Analysis November 2019 - SA Orchard registration results
27 Succession - Alicedale farm
29 River Bioscience adds to its basket of products
SOUTH AFRICAN TABLE GRAPE INDUSTRY (SATI)
30 Bergrivier brei blokkompetisie uit
32 SATI research projects
ADVERTORIALS | PROMOSIE
66 Haygrove: growing systems
72 Felco
RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY
SOUTH AFRICAN TABLE GRAPE INDUSTRY (SATI)
38 Irrigating according to grapevine water potential
HORTGRO SCIENCE
40 Bakgatboord Series: Weltevrede pears
42 August Red nectarines
50 Canker and wood rot pathogens in young apple trees and propagation material
CITRUS RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL (CRI)
54 Monkey beetles attack citrus fruit
56 Extension briefs for April and May
62 CRI Postharvest workshops: 2020
To subscribe contact: Filda Booysen | filda@hortgro.co.za | 021 870 2900
Design and layout by Colleen Goosen | colleen@franscent.co.za
Cover: Photographs of workers by Louise Brodie
Printed and bound by Novus Print
SA FRUIT JOURNAL | APRIL/MAY 2020 3
THE SAFJ BOARD OF DIRECTORS
KONANANI LIPHADZI CEO, Fruit South Africa
ANTON RABE Executive Director, HORTGRO
ANTON KRUGER CEO, FPEF
WILLEM BESTBIER CEO, SATI
JUSTIN CHADWICK CEO, CGA
SAFJ CONTRIBUTORS
CLAUDIA WALKLETT FPEF 021 526 0379 | claudia@fpef.co.za
GLORIA WEARE CGA 031 765 2514 | Gloria@cga.co.za
TSHIDI RAMABU CRI 013 759 8013 | resadmin@cri.co.za
CLAYTON SWART SATI 021 863 0366 | clayton@satgi.co.za
ELISE-MARIE STEENKAMP HORTGRO 021 870 2900
elise-marie@hortgro.co.za
CARMÉ NAUDÉ HORTGRO 021 870 2900 | carme@hortgro.co.za
SHAREHOLDERS
FRESH PRODUCE EXPORTERS’ FORUM
Private Bag X5, Century City 7441 | Tel: 021 526 0474 | www.fpef.co.za
CITRUS GROWERS’ ASSOCIATION
PO Box 461, Hillcrest 3650 | Tel: 031 765 2514 | justchad@iafrica.com
www.cga.co.za
Tel: 021 870 2900 | 258 Main Street, Paarl | PO Box 163, Paarl 7620
info@hortgro.co.za | www.hortgro.co.za
SOUTH AFRICAN TABLE GRAPE INDUSTRY
63 Main Street, Paarl 7646 | Tel: 021 863 0366 | info@satgi.co.za
www.satgi.co.za
4 SA VRUGTEJOERNAAL | APRIL/MEI 2020
FOREWORD
Hoede af vir die verlede,
en baadjies uit vir die toekoms
H
ier aan die begin van ’n nuwe jaar reduced our economic outlook for 2020 with a ANTON RABE
en ’n nuwe dekade, is daar soveel lower GDP projection; the Landbank has been Executive Director,
voortslepende uitdagings wat re-graded as junk; and SAA and other SOEs, HORTGRO
maar net nie in die bed gesit wil and even state departments and municipalities
word nie. Bogenoemde opskrif, ’n are on the verge of debt rescue to prevent liq-
aanhaling van wyle Staats-President CR Swart uidation, there are some positives that remain.
wat ek onlangs iewers raakgelees het, het my That was my impression after reading a recent
dadelik aangegryp as ’n baie raak beskrywing article of economist Roelof Botha, where he cites
van wat ons is. En as ons rondom ons kyk, ook a number of reasons why SA cannot be regarded
nié is nie, of moet word. as a “failed state” despite the best efforts of cor-
Ek is van mening dat die “hoede af” vir ons rupt politicians and officials to get us there. Only
binne die breë landbou en veral ook binne ons to read counter arguments a few days later by
bedryfsbedieningstrukture, eintlik baie relevant Jan Bosman from the Afrikanerbond, as to why
is. Hoogs verdiend, eintlik. As sektor en as we are in fact headed for failed state status.
bedryf doen ons baie (en het ons ook reeds) om Totally divergent views, but luckily the fate and
van SA ’n beter plek te maak. Dis dinge waarop future of our nation will not be determined by
ons opreg trots kan wees en waarop ons kan arguments for or against such issues, but rather
voortbou, en mee sal moet voortgaan om ’n by how we as a nation collectively respond to
beter toekoms vir die land en nasie te bou. the challenges we face. Yes, there are both
Die “baadjies uit” (en seker ook “moue op”!) negatives and positives on the balance sheet,
is derhalwe vir ons ’n oproep vir die bou van which we need to either augment or mitigate
daardie toekoms. Daar is soveel uitdagings and reduce, in order to achieve the potential of
wat voorlê, en daar is nie juis enige “hoede our country.
af” nie vir die ANC as party, die regering en Ek vir een, is bemoedig eerder as mismoedig
etlike (meeste?) van ons staatsdepartemente en in die voortslepende debat tussen die “blyers”
semi-staatsinstellings soos Eskom, SAL, Denel, en die “glyers”. Hoed dra is nie juis meer die
Telkom en andere wat rot en kaal besteel is deur in-ding nie, maar kom ons trek die spreekwoor-
opperste skelms. Die impak hiervan gaan nog delike baadjies uit en rol die moue op. Hier’s
baie jare negatief in ons ekonomie harde werk wat voorlê, want daar is
en ons fiskus weerklank vind. oorgenoeg redes om in SA te bly.
Therefore, indeed a case of “jack- Read And if you want to leave, please
ets off” to address the legacy of find the arguments to rationalise
“20 Reasons to stay
deep rooted state capture and and justify your decision and go
in South Africa”,
corruption, which prevents the a.s.a.p. The rest of us will keep the
and some of the
country from embarking on the lights burning. ✤
growth path it so desperately responses to the
needs, and in my view deserves. article, on ANTON RABE
And although the International biznews.com. Executive Director
Monetary Fund (IMF) has just HORTGRO
SA FRUIT JOURNAL | APRIL/MAY 2020 5
getting it
right bears
fruit
The dynamic fruit industry of SA exports more Know-how
than 60% of its fresh produce to approximately
The fruit industry’s world-class research is the
driving force behind the well of available infor-
110 countries worldwide. Export correlates mation, which enables navigation of the com-
positively with economic growth, therefore it plex arena of export, as well as meeting high
standards. This, in turn, enhances the industry’s
makes sense for the industry to prioritise it as competitiveness through ongoing innovation.
a strategic focus. The categories of research carried out in the
industry span biotechnology, entomology,
S
horticulture, pathology, postharvest technology,
uccess in fruit export lies in getting it right,
ANTON KRUGER soil science and market/consumer information.
and that requires everyone to pull in the
CEO: FPEF Included in the information required and used
same direction.
in the industry are the latest statistics and tech-
There are various dynamics at play that have a
nology, information on competitors within the
direct impact on SA’s retention and growth of
industry, training and development of employ-
its share in existing international markets, and
ees, and new research. This allows exporters to
entry into new ones. These include geo-politi-
trace food back to its source; make informed
cal developments (like Brexit and the US-China
decisions around planning; and compete effi-
trade war), international trade regulations and
ciently against other countries (through, for ex-
requirements (like trade barriers and even pro-
ample, knowing the categories and amounts of
tectionism), and – importantly – adherence to
fruit to be produced, timing and who to target).
our world-class risk management strategies, to
ensure that our fruit continues to comply with
The consumer
international standards. And we haven’t even
Though at the end of the trade chain, consumers
touched on the drought, climate change, and
play a significant role in dictating the who, what,
our own economic and political status.
when and how that unfolds further up the chain.
So, there’s no getting away from the fact that
The SA fruit industry comprises various types of
the world of export – in this case, fruit export
fruit: citrus; pome; stone; subtropical and exotic
– is a complex one. But with the right know-
fruit; as well as table grapes. These are market-
how, the required accreditation, consumer
ed to a number of fresh fruit export regions, viz.
consciousness, support, and a will to succeed,
Africa and the Indian Ocean islands, the EU and
the potential rewards are substantial and
UK, the Russian Federation, the Far East, South
far-reaching.
East Asia, the Middle East, the US and Canada.
6 BEDRYFSNUUS | APRIL/MEI 2020
Finding the right balance between price and quality remains a tor (FBO) code is to be obtained from the Department of Agri-
challenge to SA exporters. Different factors influence consumer culture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD). Then,
preferences, including food safety and workplace conditions; special market registration is required. This includes export
affordability and limited knowledge around fruit; an increase in certification covering product quality, hygiene and food safety,
middle to high income groups; fruit quality; and the prevalence traceability, agrochemical residues, fruit age, information veri-
of convenience foods. fication, and mycotoxin levels. And if it applies to the targeted
It’s clear that consumer demands have evolved considerably, market, a phytosanitary certificate is also required.
and that’s not about to change. Therefore, keeping abreast of,
and adapting to these demands through market intelligence is Support
not only critical, it’s also wise. Given the complexity of export, going it alone is not an option.
And when it comes to market potential, noting something like That’s what the FPEF is there for.
the EU’s 25 kg annual apple consumption per capita for the Operating from a premise of transparency and efficiency, the
past 25 years against Japan’s 10 kg FPEF serves as the exporters’ voice
consumption for the same period (up in operational activities that affect
from 6 kg), could make for valuable APAC
AGRICULTURAL PRODUCE AGENTS COUNCIL
the entire supply chain. This results
insight. But it’s not that cut and dried: in much-needed operational syn-
comparative price, appeal, trends chronicity, with all-round benefits for
and health attributes are not to be its members.
overlooked either. Not to mention The fruit industry – like any sector
competitor countries’ pricing, and within agriculture – is a challenging
how they do things. industry to operate in. Just think
of the prohibitive entry capital
Accreditation and requirements, hampered access to
compliance finance and ever-changing climatic
To become an accredited member of conditions (often with devastating
the Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum effects). Add export complexities
(FPEF), all marketing agents and to the mix and it’s clear that farm-
exporters must be registered with the ing is not for the faint-hearted.
Perishable Products Export Control But, with a will to succeed and
Board (PPECB). And agents need to complete harnessing of available
register with the Agricultural Produce www.apacweb.org.za resources, export and every other
Agents’ Council (APAC). Suite Number 69, Private Bag x Tel: (011) 894-3680, 087 095 1335, aspect of fruit farming can be done
9, East Rand, 1462 Fax: (011) 894-3761
In addition, a Food Business Opera- – and efficiently, too. ✤
INDUSTRY NEWS | APRIL/MAY 2020 7
8 SA VRUGTEJOERNAAL | APRIL/MEI 2020
SA FRUIT JOURNAL | APRIL/MAY 2020 9
Adolf de Wet (hand raised) from Stargrow Farms,
in the first aid lecture.
I
’m on my way to Op-die-Berg. I’ve just begun to ascend
the Gydo Pass, and have started feeling why the area I’m
entering is known as the Koue Bokkeveld – it’s freezing.
I have been on this road many a time before, but for a
totally different reason. On each previous trip, I was on my
motorbike going to the Cederberg, excited about making yet
another new discovery. But this time, it’s even bigger – com-
pletely different and far more sustainable than a bike trip.
I’ve only ever stopped for fuel and then coffee at the Won-
derlik Koffiewinkel en Geskenke in Op-die-Berg. Today I’m
No beating
turning into the town, going all the way up to 63 Bergsig
Street. It’s a house like no other in Op-die-Berg, a training
centre focusing on all facets of agriculture training in the
bigger Ceres-Koue Bokkeveld region, as well as social skills
about the
development. I am supposed to meet with Joy van Biljon, the
initiator of the centre. However, awaiting me are Joy, Carmen
Roberts, and Samantha Gibb. On our way to the boardroom,
we walk past a classroom full of students where I curiously
KBOS
stick my head in.
“These are all farm employees doing a course in first-aid training,”
Samantha explains. A student demonstrates CPR on a big doll.
“So Carmen, how did you end up here?” I ask to get the ball
rolling.
The Koue Bokkeveld Opleidingsentrum “I grew up on Kromfontein farm, just over the hill from here,
went to Boland College in Paarl, qualified in human resources
(KBOS) does not beat about the bush, management in 2000 and started here in 2001 as the recep-
mince words or waste time. tionist. I was born in the Bokkeveld, I can’t leave!”
And it’s with this no-frills approach “Samantha, and you?”
“Completely different story. Born in Johannesburg, I went to
that they continue to empower Cape Town and ended up in Op-die-Berg because of a certain
people with knowledge and life skills, man. But the centre has become another huge love of my life
too. I am so grateful things worked out like this. Being involved
GERRIT RAUTENBACH with the centre is hugely rewarding.”
discovered. “And Joy, it all started with you?”
10 BEDRYFSNUUS | APRIL/MEI 2020“Kind of, but it goes back a while,” she says and begins her makes my life so much better. Empowerment doesn’t have to
story back in 1983 when she moved from Cape Town to the happen in leaps and bounds.”
area on behalf of the then Rural Foundation. When the Founda- “And Samantha, your most memorable moment?”
tion ceased to exist, she carried on helping the farms resorting “Without a doubt, it is always the night of the Witzenberg Pres-
under her. Eventually, in 2000, the Koue Bokkeveld Training tige Agri Awards. Especially when I see and hear the gratitude
Centre was officially established. Starting off with 11 member from the winners, how they would honestly use that moment
farms in 2001, the centre is proud of its growth and current- to encourage fellow workers to go for it next time, rather than
ly serves 85 farms, from the Koue Bokkeveld to the Warm just bask in their own glory. Also, how past winners will help
Bokkeveld, all the way to Tulbagh and Wolseley regions. Since potential future winners prepare for the big night. The support
inception, their number of courses has grown from 21 to 90. and honesty are so heartwarming.”
So did the number of students, which more than quadrupled And Joy’s answer: “Two years ago we entered a choir in the
from 1 800 to 9 272. Permanent staff members have increased Suidoosterfees competition. It was a big step. There were
from only Joy and Carmen in the beginning to 12, plus a grad- a number of choirs from all over the Western Cape. When I
uate placement today. looked at our choir I realised that not so long ago, all they
Currently, the centre stands solidly on two legs; the CC respon- would have known about an event like this was what they might
sible for the courses and qualifications on one side, and on the have seen or heard from other people or in the media. But
other side the NPO offering community upliftment from camps there they were, dignified, confident on par performers.”
to choirs to annual competitions honouring farmworkers, to The Koue Bokkeveld Training Centre is a great success story.
name a few. The importance of this is that the Koue Bokkeveld The winning formula is putting the focus on the student while
Training Centre looks after the training and development of nurturing the long and positive relationships with the produc-
each individual as a whole. It’s not only about skills but about ers. There are students that completed their first courses in
social development, a balanced offering to help good people the early days and are still coming back. That’s the difference
become great. between the centre and other colleges or training institutions.
“Carmen, tell me, what is your best memory, your nicest story The link between the student, the training centre and the farm
that you witnessed over the years?” I ask out of the blue. is integral, from the first day onwards all three sides form a
She smiles: “Way back I taught a computer skills course. unique whole. It’s perpetual.
The older generations were rather wary of this new technolo- Driving back down the Gydo Pass I feel grateful to have met
gy. And there was this one tannie that was absolutely scared such a special brand of people. People sitting way up in Bergsig
of the mouse. I don’t know if it was also because it was called Street, Op-die-Berg, in a relatively small house making a huge
a mouse, but every time she touched it and the little arrow difference to an enormous part of the Witzenberg and Boland
jumped, she jumped too! That was until I put my hand over farming community. People who strive to truly contribute to the
her hand and showed her that she controls the mouse, not betterment of lives. I think it is the closest real example
vice versa – she makes the arrow move, not the mouse. It’s a to me of the term University of Life.
simple example but the ability to teach somebody a new skill I salute you. ✤
INDUSTRY NEWS | APRIL/MAY 2020 11ANGELO PETERSEN
New Hortgro Director
ELISE-MARIE STEENKAMP
The deciduous fruit industry body, Hortgro,
is proud to announce the appointment of Angelo
Petersen as a new board director.
P
etersen who has more than 25 years’ experience as a senior executive, board
director, general manager, and leader in the private and public sectors,
joined the Hortgro board in January this year. Over the past two decades,
Petersen has been active in the transformation process of the fruit industry,
and has facilitated numerous successful land transformation and social development
initiatives, as well as public-private partnerships.
He is well-known in the fruit industry and has been the non-executive chairperson
of the Perishable Products Exports Control Board (PPECB) since 2013. From 1999
until 2019 Petersen was a senior executive and board director at the Capespan Group
(CGL), a global fruit and logistics player. There he held senior positions in
strategy, human resources and general management. He also served
on the boards of a number of Capespan subsidiaries and joint ven-
tures. Prior to joining Capespan, he held senior human resources
(HR) positions with the Boeresake Group and the Inter-
national Colleges Group (ICG).
Petersen matriculated from Bellville South Secondary School in
1987, after which he obtained various qualifications in human
resource management. He is an avid reader, aspiring philosopher,
social golfer, husband and father. He holds a Post Graduate
Diploma in Leadership Development (cum laude) from Stellenbosch
University and is an alumnus of the Africa Directors Board Leader-
ship Programme with the USB, which he completed in 2019.
According to Petersen, he is looking forward to bringing his
experience and learnings to advance the mandate of Hortgro
by ensuring good corporate governance and enhancing Angelo Petersen, Board Director.
engagement with all stakeholders. He said: “I want
to help create an enabling environment to
increase the export competitiveness of the “I want to help create an enabling environment to
pome and stone fruit industries, and to
contribute to the ongoing transformation increase the export competitiveness of the pome and stone
initiatives in the sector.” fruit industries, and to contribute to
the ongoing transformation initiatives in the sector.”
12 BEDRYFSNUUS | APRIL/MEI 2020MARIËTTE KOTZE
joins PPECB Board
CARMÉ NAUDÉ
Mariëtte Kotze, Hortgro’s Group Operational Manager, was recently
selected to join the PPECB (Perishable Products Export Control Board),
as representative of the pome and stone fruit industries.
K
otze, who has been working in the deciduous fruit industry for the past
18 years, will bring valuable expertise to the PPECB. She is well-known
within the pome and stone fruit farming communities, working closely
with upcoming and commercial farmers. Enthusiastic about her appoint-
ment, Kotze hopes to grow within the organisation and to contribute to ensuring
that the functions of the PPECB are well executed. “It is important that the role of
the PPECB is justified to the producers,” she says. “Risk management is imperative
to maintain ‘safe fruit’ from SA.”
According to Kotze, the industry faces many challenges such as maintaining current
markets and gaining access to new ones, as well as the functioning capacity and
infrastructure of the SA harbours. “Currently our harbours are struggling to
handle all the export volumes,” she says.
Kotze is optimistic about the future of the deciduous fruit industry.
“Volumes are increasing and we have a healthy production infrastructure.
The future of the industry is looking rosy. “Water resources and climate
change will have an effect on the future of agriculture in this country,
but the continuously evolving nature of innovation and technology will
allow the industry to adapt,” she says.
The requirements for fresh produce exports are becoming stricter,
which places a lot of responsibility on the producer, and at the cost of
the producer. “It is important for producers to take ownership where
possible, to ensure fruit safety and security. That way we build the
SA deciduous fruit brand as a product of excellence.”
Hortgro’s Group Operational Manager Mariëtte Kotze
was recently elected as board member to the PPECB
(Perishable Products Export Control Board),
It is important that the role of the representing the pome and stone fruit industry.
PPECB is justified to the producers. Congratulations, Mariëtte.
Risk management is imperative to maintain
“safe fruit” from SA.
INDUSTRY NEWS | APRIL/MAY 2020 13Songbirds. The Normat Choir participated in the choir festival at the Suidoosterfees.
The Normat Choir’s songs of hope
GERRIT RAUTENBACH
On 14 September 2019 Normat Farms’ Ladies Choir achieved first place for
the second year running at the Koue Bokkeveld Training Centre’s choir evening.
They are truly a choir of note, but it didn’t happen overnight.
T Hoe jy dink, verander jou lewe
he beauty about a choir is that – like a woven tapestry – its
many individual threads come together to form a mag-
nificent whole. The Normat choir is exactly like that, but En hoe jy dink, verander jou lewe
maybe a bit more so, because the circumstances that led to Ek het ’n pen, jy het ’n pen; skryf jou lewe.
their union are also a woven tapestry.
It began in 2015 when a group of Normat Farms’ employers Ockie Geldenhuys, chief executive member of Normat Farms
attended the Leadership for Hope course, presented by Archie was super-impressed with their effort and with their musical
van Biljon at the Koue Bokkeveld Training Centre. One of the ability. “We believed in them, but more importantly, we could
tasks was for the group to tell an original story; not with words, see that they believed in themselves; believed they can,” says
but by composing a song. They sang: Ockie.
14 BEDRYFSNUUS | APRIL/MEI 2020. . . And it echoes through the land
And it’s the hope of hopes
It’s the heart of every man
It’s the hope of hopes
It’s the love of loves
This is the song for every man
“From a distance”, JULIE GOLD.
“In 2016 the Normat Farm Choir was formally formed, consist-
ing of 12 women,” Berenice Janse, a member since inception
confirms. The tapestry has taken shape.
can’t buy the new shoes in time, someone else will help out,
Since then the choir has been going from strength to strength, knowing that the money will come back as soon as possible,”
and although the members are all employed staff on various says Katriena. “There is complete trust and camaraderie. But
farms, working a full day, they religiously practise two nights Normat also helps tremendously. I remember the first outfits
in the week, as well as on Saturdays and Sundays. Given the they supplied. White skirts and striped blouses. They help with
chance, they simply want to sing, and continue to do so. Sing- transport, workshops, extra practise times and a lot more.”
ing has a healing effect. It helps to alleviate work pressure and
Although the farms help, the responsibility of making the choir
life’s other pressures. How you think, changes your life, they
happen lies with the choir. That ensures that it is their project,
sang right in the beginning.
creating much better sustainability. This choir is theirs, fulfilling
Katriena van Rooyen is the choir conductor, and deservedly so. their needs, making them proud to belong. They don’t have to
She knows her sharps from her flats. “When I was at school, do it, they want to. Their passion for singing and commitment
I started singing from a very young age. I remember I used to the choir are particularly evident when the pressure is on
to sing soprano, but soon learnt the tenor part and even the and the practise schedule gets hectic. Due to working full-
bass. I could hear it all, I could sing it all because I understood time, weekends are sacrificed. So before a main event like the
it. Mostly, I could do it, because music to me is so beautiful. Suidoosterfees, at three in the afternoon on any given Sunday,
So valuable. It came naturally to me to start conducting. I am you’ll find the choir ready and waiting for their conductor in
blessed.” their little training hall.
“Performances are most special,” says Berenice. In their first Katriena arrives on time, dressed in her formal velvet conductor’s
year, they achieved second place at the Suidoosterfees. In dress. One cannot help but to take them seriously. This is the real
2018 and this year, they won at the Koue Bokkeveld Training thing. Through her example, Katriena raises the level of every
Centre’s choir evening. practice to that of a full-blown performance, getting a 100% re-
Singing is what they love to do, and the way they make plans turn in song. She shows that she is proud of her choir, treats them
to also look the part is also impressive. They arrange functions with respect and does whatever it takes to inspire commitment.
and fundraisings and help each other out. “If one member The Normat Ladies’ Choir is today a beautiful tapestry of life. ✤
INDUSTRY NEWS | APRIL/MAY 2020 15HORTGRO
grows agri leaders
For the success of any operation, the quality of its management team’s leadership skills
is crucial. There is a direct positive correlation between business performance
and effective leadership behaviour.
H
ortgro, with the aid of a grant from AgriSETA, take initiative and responsibility to ensure tasks are executed;
partnered with the Koue Bokkeveld Training how they motivate their team members; how they go about
Centre and Mazars HR Advisory services, to pilot planning their own work, as well as their team’s work). Research
a two-day leadership development centre for pro- has confirmed that the number one reason for employees
duction managers. The goal was to assist Hortgro being disengaged and unproductive is a bad boss or a line su-
members’ leaders to become more self-aware and pervisor. Around 75% of workers who voluntarily leave their job
to cultivate their management and leadership skills. The centres do so because of their bosses, rather than to leave the position
were facilitated throughout September and November at itself. In the end employee unhappiness and unproductivity are
Saronsberg in Tulbagh and 10 production managers attended mostly a management issue.
each centre. If you want to be an effective leader,
The management and leadership study and learn about your best lead-
skills of a farm’s leader play a crucial Around 75% of workers who ership tool – yourself. Effective leaders
role in its performance and success.
Poor management and leadership
voluntarily leave their job do so build solid foundations for success by
focusing on identifying and addressing
limit the business performance of because of their bosses, rather than their own development needs, and
organisations and prevent them from
to leave the position itself. then building relationships and foster-
growing, transforming and develop- ing teamwork. This requires self-aware-
ing more leaders. Managers often ness, which is the single most impor-
lack the right management and lead- tant factor separating good leaders from great ones.
ership skills to take their organisation and people forward. In Self-awareness can be explained as knowing one’s inner self,
this regard, AgriSETA highlighted the role of farm managers as while also understanding how one’s external self is viewed by
a scarce and critical skill in 2019. The 2019/20 sectoral priority others. It reveals one’s strengths, weaknesses, motivations and
occupations (pivotal) list includes the occupations of agricultur- which areas of one’s character need more dedication. Great
al farm managers and horticultural farmers (production supervi- leaders can leverage their self-awareness and walk the line of
sor; farm foreperson). trusting and acknowledging their strengths while remaining
So, where does one start in developing leadership capability? humble and receptive to their weaknesses.
All of us know one or two managers who we regard as excep- However, self-awareness eludes most people. It is a hard skill
tional. Their performance can largely be attributed to how they to define and acquire. Many people believe they are self-aware
do things (for example, how they resolve problems; how they when they are not. In fact, it is often noted by psychologists
16 BEDRYFSNUUS | APRIL/MEI 2020The delegates who attended the Leadership Development Centre on 25 and 26 September 2019 at Saronsberg in Tulbagh.
Front: Chris Hans (Graaff Fruit), Johan Visser (DuToit Agri), Willa Rossouw (DuToit Agri).
Back: Albert Nieuwenhuis (DuToi Agri), Pieter de Wet (DuToit Agri), Justin Baartman (Graaff Fruit), Henk Smit (Middeltuin),
Johan N Raal (DuToit Agri), Johan Uithaler (Elandsrivier), Fanie Snyders (Verdun).
that those who claim to know themselves the best are often the with feedback regarding the effectiveness of their leadership
least self-aware. One’s perception of oneself can also become behaviour in a safe and confidential environment. The outcome
severely skewed over time. It is rare that we take the time to of the training provided at the leadership development centres
step back from our thoughts and reflect on the reality of our is individual developmental feedback from a psychologist, to
situations, and how we are creating the delegate and his/her manager,
that reality. Without periodically as well as an individual development
stopping to look at yourself in the Self-awareness can be explained as plan, indicating strengths, growth
mirror of honest analysis, you could
knowing one’s inner self, areas and development priorities.
fool yourself into thinking you have The aim of the development centres
all the answers. Always remember while also understanding how one’s is to assist farm managers and/or
that a self-absorbed leader is a dan- external self is viewed by others. owners in better understanding and
ger to his or her organisation. supporting their production manag-
So how do you develop self-aware- ers, aiding with succession planning,
ness? It’s an ongoing process, not something gained by a and ensuring that one’s available training budget is spent on
once-off personality assessment that neatly places one in the right talent and interventions.
a predetermined category. It is a process of reflection that The centres were well received and 100% of the delegates
takes place over years – a continual checking back in with indicated that they would recommend it to their peers. Some of
yourself to see where you are at, how you are the characteristics of the centre that the
perceived by others and what your current For more delegates found especially valuable were
strengths and weaknesses are. Feedback, information about leadership working together in a group (“you learn from
training, and development are key to making development, please contact the other person how to approach a situation
changes and stretching yourself. Astrid Arendse in a different manner”) and to receive inde-
The purpose of the Hortgro leadership devel- at Hortgro pendent feedback (“to receive honest feed-
opment programme was to provide attendees astrid@hortgro.co.za back – strengths and growth areas”). ✤
INDUSTRY NEWS | APRIL/MAY 2020 17Above: Antoinette Malan.
Left: Prof. Pia Addison doing
field work.
A
t the start of a new year, many people reflect on the
SU RESEARCH
successes and failures of the past. For two of Stel-
lenbosch University’s (SU) researchers, their success
was rewarded with research excellence awards. Prof.
Pia Addison and Prof Antoinette Malan of the Department of
EXCELLENCE
Conservation Ecology and Entomology at SU both received the
Vice-Rector: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies
research excellence award for their individual contributions
AWARDS
to accredited publications.
An Associate Professor in Entomology, Addison produced four
Ph.D. graduates in collaboration with her research partners in
the academic year (December 2018/March 2019 graduations).
recognising
These Ph.D. degrees covered a diverse range of topics: from
false codling moth (FCM) mating disruption and fruit fly
machine learning to leafminers and weevils.
entomologists
Her role as the primary supervisor of those dissertations was
both challenging and rewarding, says Addison. She spends
about a third of her time lecturing, while the rest is focussed on
research and administration: conceptualizing the topic, funding
proposals, attending meetings, mentoring, assisting with data
GRETHE BESTBIER interpretation and of course, hours and hours of reading.
“It is hard work,” she admits. “But it is rewarding. It is a way of
getting a lot of research done, especially if you have good
students. The best part is seeing the person develop. They
have this high mountain to climb more or less on their own,
18 BEDRYFSNUUS | APRIL/MEI 2020Umezuruike Linus Opara (above) from the
Department of Horticultural Science is
among the three SU researchers
to be listed in the 2019 Web of Science
Highly Cited Researchers List.
This award recognises the world’s most
influential researchers of the past decade,
according to the production of highly cited
and seeing that person getting their degree is very rewarding.”
papers that rank in the top 1% by citations
Just down the corridor from Addison, Prof. Malan’s research is for field and year in Web of Science.
focussed on nematology, specifically the new and specialised In 2019, fewer than 0.1% of the world’s
field of entomopathogenic nematodes. Malan received the re-
researchers earned this exclusive distinction.
search excellence award for her contribution of 4.36 publication
subsidy units (PUs) in the academic year (as determined by the “It has been a rough but rewarding journey
Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) based on during the past decade trying to build a
the authors’ affiliations to research institutions).
critical mass of knowledge for our
When she started working with entomopathogenic nematodes
horticultural industry, while making our work
in 2005, she had to start at ground zero. At that stage in SA, no
one had done research in this field. Today, many SA universi- relevant and impactful globally.
ties research entomopathogenic nematodes, although the SU I would have liked to spend more time in the
programme still leads the way.
field, hands-on, with industry role players,
“We had nothing to work with, not even the organism,” she
says. “I read a lot and tried trapping the nematodes from the
but I hope that the human capital we have
soil. In the end, I was invited to visit a laboratory in Florida tried to build can get the opportunities to
where I was shown all the relevant techniques. From there on I fulfil this other important role,” says Opara.
started doing research with entomopathogenic nematodes.”
Entomopathogenic nematodes can assist with the biological
control of pests, especially where pests have become resistant work is a good additional motivator, especially in an institution
to chemical controls. Over the years, many new species were as “big and busy” as SU, says Addison.
discovered and recorded in her research. Currently, they are “The entire university system is based on self-motivation,”
working on the mass rearing of these organisms. agrees Malan. “And this award is a way to say that what you
Both women agree that extending recognition to researchers are doing is good and right. Right from the start, I have been
in a university system is important. Acknowledgement for hard motivated by the goal of publishing.” ✤
INDUSTRY NEWS | APRIL/MAY 2020 19So ’n span kan pak! Letterlik tonne kos is in sakke gepak vir landbouwerkers. (PHOTO: Carmé Naudé)
Sagtevrugtebedryf skenk
kospakkies aan Klein-Karoo
ELISE-MARIE STEENKAMP
H
ortgro, die sagtevrugtebedryforganisasie, moniteer deur die produksie-seisoen te kom. Fondse is ook beskikbaar
reeds vir ’n geruime tyd die situasie van produsente gestel vir die beheer van gewasbeskerming in die streek.
en landbouwerkers wat deur die langdurige Op ’n humanitêre vlak het Hortgro onlangs ’n “veerkrag-
droogte geraak word. Veral steenvrugprodusente tigheidswerkswinkel” vir produsente en plaaswerkers in
in die Klein-Karoo vanaf Montagu, Barrydale, Ladismith, Ladismith gehou om hulle geestelik met hanteringstrategieë
Calitzdorp tot by Prins Albert kry baie swaar, met sommige te bemagtig. Fondse is beskikbaar gestel en sowat ‘n duisend
wat reeds hul plase verloor het. Honderde plaaswerkers sit kospakkies is oor die Kerstyd aan plaaswerkers in die streek
ook sonder inkomste en werk. versprei.
Hortgro, die Inmaakvrugteprodusentevereniging (IVP), Agri Ons doen steeds ‘n beroep op produsente en belanghebben-
Wes-Kaap, Agri SA en Wine TU het hulpbronne saamgevoeg des in ander dele van die land wat finansieel of op enige ander
om Klein-Karoo-produsente finansieel by te staan, om sodoende manier die droogte-ondersteuningsprogram wil help. ✤
Kontak asseblief Hortgro se groepsbedryfbestuurder, Mariëtte Kotze (mariette@hortgro.co.za).
20 BEDRYFSNUUS | APRIL/MEI 2020So maak mens. Verskeie privaatdonateurs het hul harte oopgemaak en saamgewerk om vir gesinne van kos te voorsien. (PHOTO: Carmé Naudé)
THE MOST TRUSTED NAME
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INDUSTRY NEWS | APRIL/MAY 21
8:24:45 AMLangkloof
geruk deur
fratsongeluk
ELISE-MARIE STEENKAMP
D
ie nuwe jaar het sleg begin in die Joubertina-distrik van Bokkie Kritzinger en Booi van Rooyen van Tulpieskraal
die Langkloof, met die afsterwe van Bokkie Kritzinger (49) en Tulpieskraal Werkers Trust, onderskeidelik.
van Tulpieskraal.
Kritzinger, een van die leierboere in die streek, was vroeg
in Januarie op pad na ’n watergat op sy plaas toe hy met ’n gelewer het, en was ook passievol oor transformasie.
vierwielmotorfiets verongeluk het. Sy dogter, Evette (21), Toe die geleentheid homself in 2006 voordoen om die lewens-
was saam met hom op die motorfiets. Sy het ligte beserings kwaliteit van die 30 permanente landbouwerkers wat op
opgedoen. Tulpieskraal woon te verbeter, het Kritzinger dit aangegryp
Kritzinger het met appels, pere, perskes, appelkose en en die werkers ondersteun om 25 hektaar van die plaas te
pruime geboer. Hy was bekend as ’n “mense-mens” wat koop. Die Tulpieskraal Werkers Trust is gestig wat 100% deur
altyd gehelp het wanneer hy kon. Hy was voorsitter van die die werkers besit word. (Lees meer oor hierdie inisiatief hier:
Langkloof-landbougenootskap en bestuurslid van die Lang- https://www.jobsfundinitiatives.co.za/projects/tulpies-
kloof-vrugtevereniging. Kritizinger kraal-workers-trust/)
was bekend vir die enorme bydra Kritzinger word oorleef deur sy vrou, Annelie, sy dogter, sy
wat hy tot landbou in die streek seun Andre (23), sy ouers en sy twee susters. ✤
SIZA We are happy to announce Ellen Pay’s
recent addition to the SIZA team.
appoints E llen will be responsible for promoting the SIZA programme
in the destination markets of SA’s agricultural exports.
market
She has nearly two decades of experience in the field of
agricultural trade. Ellen has worked as an advisor for Freshfel
Europe, representing the interests of fruit and vegetable trad-
ambassador
ers in Brussels, as well as for other agricultural trade groups,
universities and think tanks. In recent years, she has mostly
worked as a trade and editorial consultant for the Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the UN.
22 BEDRYFSNUUS | APRIL/MEI 2020She holds two master’s degrees: one in International Eco-
nomic Relations from the University of Antwerp, Belgium,
and another in the European Political Economy from the
London School of Economics. Ellen speaks English, French,
Dutch, Spanish, Italian and German.
Based in Umbria, Italy she runs a small-scale olive oil farm
and breeds and trains horses for recreational riding. ✤
Ellen’s contact details are:
+39 366 892 0951 | ellen@siza.co.za
INDUSTRY NEWS | APRIL/MAY 2020 23ANALYSIS NOVEMBER 2019
SA Orchard Registration Results
JOHN EDMONDS
T
he SA citrus industry is the country’s largest horticultural essential for guiding growers when choosing which varieties
industry (with commercial production in all provinces) and to plant, assisting the citrus supply chain with packing and
the largest fresh produce exporter, exporting almost logistics investment decisions and directing market access and
2 million tons in 2019. The SA Citrus Tree Census data is com- research needs. The CGA annual statistics booklet also includes
piled from the online orchard registration process for special a summary of this data.
markets, which takes place annually in October/November. The following article is a brief analysis of the November 2019
Data gathered from this exercise includes statistics about orchard registrations and some of the key findings. Zimbab-
variety, rootstock, tree age and hectares. This information is wean and eSwatini growers are also members of the CGA and
they contribute to the annual cen-
Commodity 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Change % sus. But they are not included in this
article, as the level of detail does not
Valencia/ midseasons 25 728 26 521 26 956 26 971 26 987 16 0%
allow for accurate comparisons.
Navels 16 223 16 064 16 141 16 158 15 845 -314 -2%
In 2019 85 736 hectares of SA citrus
Soft citrus 11 439 13 183 16 308 16 388 19 127 2 739 17%
was registered, a 2% increase over
Lemons/limes 9 485 11 710 14 616 14 630 16 100 1 470 10%
last year’s 81 805 hectares. Growth
Grapefruit/pummelos 7 161 7 393 7 625 7 625 7 649 24 0% continues in mandarins and lemons
Kumquats 20 33 33 33 30 -4 -11% albeit at a slower rate than previous
Grand Total 70 057 74 903 81 679 81 805 85 736 3 931 5% years. Mandarins grew year on year by
17% compared to the previous year’s
24%. Lemon hectares grew by 10%
Province 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Change %
compared to the previous year’s 25%.
Limpopo 30 513 31 513 34 802 34 734 36 039 1 305 4%
Valencias and grapefruit showed no
Eastern Cape 18 970 19 384 21 160 21 249 22 080 831 4% growth, whilst the area under navel or-
Western Cape 12 136 13 930 14 883 14 968 16 125 1 157 8% anges shrunk by 2%. (See left above).
Mpumalanga 5 173 6 254 6 363 6 367 6 985 619 10%
KZN 1 739 1 904 2 131 2 131 2 018 -113 -5%
Northern Cape 1 365 1 492 1 773 1 785 1 877 92 5%
North West 161 426 554 559 599 40 7%
The provinces that showed the
biggest area growth overall were
Free State 13 13 13 - 0%
Limpopo Province and the Western
Grand Total 70 057 74 903 81 679 81 805 85 736 3 931 5%
Cape as can be seen in the table left.
24 SA VRUGTEJOERNAAL | APRIL/MEI 2020CGA Region 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Change %
Sundays River Valley 12 605 12 940 13 856 13 944 14 417 474 3%
Senwes 9 489 10 085 11 002 11 007 11 893 886 8%
Letsitele 10 332 10 747 11 136 11 102 11 146 44 0%
Western Cape 8 838 9 608 10 232 10 242 10 874 632 6%
Hoedspruit 5 375 5 793 6 368 6 368 6 799 431 7%
Left: Looking at the CGA regional
Patensie 4 726 5 470 5 345 5 346 5 745 398 7%
breakdown, the Boland region in the
Boland 3 289 3 363 4 698 4 794 5 459 665 14%
Western Cape Province showed the
Limpopo River 3 885 4 327 4 579 4 579 4 422 -157 -3% biggest percentage increase of 14%
Nelspruit 4 156 4 723 5 700 5 649 4 086 -1 563 -28% on last year’s census, although Senwes
Onderberg 2 609 2 824 2 971 2 971 3 039 68 2% showed the biggest increase in
Burgersfort Ohrigstad 2 270 2 270 hectares at 886.
KwaZulu-Natal 1 739 1 780 1 941 1 941 2 018 77 4% The creation of a new CGA region,
Burgersfort/Ohrigstad had the effect
Eastern Cape Midlands 1 648 1 751 1 875 1 875 1 895 21 1%
of cannibalising Nelspruit’s hectares.
Northern Cape 1 365 1 492 1 786 1 798 1 672 -125 -7%
However, together they grew by 12%
Grand Total 70 057 74 903 81 489 81 615 85 736 4 121 5%
over the last year.
Age distribution per citrus commodity
250.00%
The average orchard size in the census was
3.4 hectares, with lemon orchards averag-
ing 3 hectares on one end of the scale and 200.00% 59%
grapefruit orchards averaging 4 hectares on Grapefruit/Pummelos
average on the other. 27%
Hectares
150.00%
The chart right illustrates that about half of Lemons/Limes
19%
32%
the soft citrus area and over 40% of the lem- 10%
ons can be viewed as currently non-bearing, Soft Citrus
100.00% 30%
43% 64%
and about one third as mature. In compar-
Navels
ison, around two-thirds of the orange and 31%
grapefruit orchards are mature trees. Overall, 50.00% 50%
26% Valencia/Midseasons
54% of the SA citrus orchard area is younger 63%
10% 27%
than 13 years old. 10%
0.00%
0 to 4 5 to 12 13 plus Age grouping
Age distribution of late mandarin types per region Looking at the development of the late manda-
rin category, 60% (6 631 ha) of all the country’s
late mandarins (11 145 hectares) are not yet in
production.
Hectares
SA FRUIT JOURNAL | APRIL/MAY 2020 25Age distribution of lemons per region
About 6 750 hectares; 42% of all the country’s
14 616 hectares of lemons are not yet in production.
Almost 42% of Sunday's River Valley’s 4 914 hectares
of lemon trees are younger than five years old. The
smaller regions all have about half of their lemon areas
Hectares
in this non-productive stage (see graph left).
Oranges show no growth with only 10% being
immature trees (see tables left and right below).
Similarly for grapefruit, (see table bottom) only 10% of
the area is five years old.
Valencias 0 to 4 5 to 12 13 plus Grand Navels 0 to 4 5 to 12 13 plus Grand
Total Total
Letsitele 1 328 2 665 4 063 8 056 Senwes 438 1 067 2 542 4 047
Senwes 130 983 2 118 3 231 S.R. Valley 416 1 061 2 291 3 768
S.R. Valley 220 601 2 325 3 146 Western Cape 179 538 2 954 3 670
Limpopo River 67 731 2 044 2 842 Patensie 246 604 986 1 836
Hoedspruit 215 809 1 779 2 803 Nelspruit 128 363 284 775
W. Cape 210 367 1 855 2 433 E. Cape Midlands 42 195 400 636
Nelspruit 138 151 917 1 207 Burgersfort Ohrigstad 47 68 159 274
Onderberg 120 374 676 1 169 Northern Cape 18 23 189 230
Patensie 76 261 640 977 KwaZulu-Natal 23 10 188 221
N. Cape 91 222 136 450 Boland 9 94 93 196
KwaZulu-Natal 8 35 295 338 Limpopo River 25 20 71 117
Boland 63 10 93 166 Onderberg 5 5 18 27
Burgersfort Ohrigstad 6 3 133 142 Letsitele 10 12 4 25
Eastern Cape Midlands 3 18 7 28 Hoedspruit 11 10 22
Grand Total 2 675 7 229 17 082 26 987 Grand Total 1 585 4 071 10 189 15 845
% of Total 10% 27% 63% % of Total 10% 26% 64%
Grapefruit 0 to 4 5 to 12 13 plus Grand
The growth in late mandarins and lemon production continues, although Total
seemingly at a slightly diminished rate. Stakeholders in these industries Letsitele 243 815 1 073 2 131
will likely need to put effort and resources into identifying, exploring and Hoedspruit 129 475 1 157 1 761
enhancing export opportunities for these commodities, as increased pro-
Onderberg 218 411 1 065 1 693
duction meets consumer demand with the likely resultant drop in prices.
KwaZulu-Natal 48 80 581 708
This is already starting to happen as the World Citrus Organisation
Limpopo River 54 142 387 583
(WCO) was officially launched at the international fresh produce trade
show Fruit Logistica, in Berlin on 5 February 2020. The founding mem- N. Cape 29 331 112 471
ber countries of the organisation, representing 70% of citrus growers S.R. Valley 1 35 73 108
worldwide were present namely: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Do- Patensie 17 62 18 97
minican Republic, Egypt, France, Israel, Italy, Morocco, Peru, SA, Spain, W. Cape 72 24 96
Tunisia, Turkey, Uruguay and USA. The WCO is
Senwes 1 1
the first global platform aimed at increasing co-
Grand Total 738 2 422 4 489 7 649
ordination, dialogue and action between citrus
% of Total 10% 32% 59%
producing countries across the world.
26 BEDRYFSNUUS | APRIL/MEI 2020SUCCESSION
Alicedale
Farm
LOUISE BRODIE
(Summarised by Gloria Weare)
Back: Kelvin, Jason and Christie Smit; front: Peter Nicholson,
Teagan Joubert, Lynette Nicholson and Lyneveigh Smit.
P
eter and Lynette Nicholson have farmed at Alicedale since with each individual being appointed as a project manager.
1984. The farm now comprises 850 ha of citrus, as well as As farmers in Africa, part of the culture at Alicedale is to
a recently purchased 200 ha plot near Rustenburg where help create prosperity for their neighbours and community.
they are developing blueberries. All three of their children and After land claims were registered against Alicedale, Peter
their spouses are involved in the family farming business. called a meeting with all the claimants and neighbouring
The Nicholson family has a long history in the area, as Peter’s landowners to start a dialogue. With patience and time
great-grandfather settled in Limpopo when he emigrated an agreement was finally reached with those who were
from Ireland. Although both his great-grandfather and father prepared to participate in change. In the end, only one
farmed, Peter did not inherit any land from them. The farms family was keen to unite for the sake of both families.
had been sold by the time he was born. His parents raised their The Nemamilwes and the Nicholsons have now purchased
children to accept that the only inheritance they would receive two other citrus farms as joint shareholders, with Alicedale
is a sound value system and a good education, to be able to guaranteeing loans and the income from the rental helps
make a good living. Peter studied civil engineering, and after pay off the loans.
his military service he started his own construction business. Peter feels strongly that the SA agricultural sector would bene-
However, his family’s return to agriculture happened through fit significantly from an official Charter of Agriculture. But, in
his in-laws. He met his wife Lynette – a nurse at the time – in the meantime he is doing the best he can by building policies
hospital while having a broken arm treated. After they married, around the relationships with the farm’s labour force. Alicedale
Peter got involved in the running of Alicedale, Lynette’s moth- has 600 permanent employees, and during the ten-month
er’s farm. He soon bought shares and finally had full ownership. harvest period an additional 1200 workers. They have a
Peter and Lynette‘s children are now all involved in the women’s and men’s labour trust and are establishing an invest-
family business. They were raised with the same values as ment company for these trusts.
Peter, and have each qualified with various degrees, starting In conclusion, Peter stated that the long-term plan for the
their own working careers independent of the farm. But then Alicedale family business is for every-
they each made the choice to join the farming business. Peter one to be future-focussed. Therefore,
explained that it is not right for any family member to work he is preparing the groundwork for
for another. So they have structured the business into projects long-term sustainability. ✤
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