Farmers address challenges

November 2023

A climate-smart approach will assist all farmers in addressing challenges associated with climate change. To assist farmers, PGP is: 

• Teaching appropriate adaptation that enhances the resilience of farmers, crops and production systems.
• Mitigating problems by using modern technology and keeping a finger on the pulse of advanced practices that are appropriate to the developing farmer.
• Championing the importance of national and household food security.

In seeking to facilitate successful transformation and sustainable development in the grain farming sector, the PGP team paid 122 on-farm visits to individual more advanced farmers participating in different projects during July and August.

Mentor Paul Wiggill paid Godfrey Mbhele a visit while he was harvesting his maize crop.

Jerry Mthombothi (regional development manager: Mpumalanga) visited Blessing Mazibuko in the Loskop region and his maize crop is looking very good this season.

It is important to do your farm office work as well – recordkeeping and financial management are being done by Jeremiah Nkosi under his mentor Timon's guidance.

During mentor Timon Filter's visit to Mandla Nkosi, ser­vicing and repair work were being done on tractors and implements. The servicing of implements is very important in the quiet season.

Mentor Johnny Badenhorst visited Amos Vilakazi (VBA Farming Projects) in the Louwsburg area, where he was harvesting his maize.

Planning for the new season

Out study groups are distributed throughout the country in key grain-growing areas, and during July and August contact was made with 54 study groups. The team monitored harvest progress and focussed on the correct and safe storage of grain as well as the marketing of the crop.

New season plans and budgeting were also set in motion. Farmers are encouraged to settle their bills when the income is realised to focus on building good financial records – read the article on page 4. Teaching financial management and good business ethics are as important as communicating knowledge about successful production practices.

At the Breyten Study Group, members were taught about the soil-pH and the effect on nutrient uptake, the value of liming and why soil samples are important.

Harvest time! The maize of the Ntshi­qo Study Group near Mthatha is looking good.

Farmers from the Donkerhoek Study Group in the Louwsburg area are always keen to learn more.

Publication: November 2023

Section: Pula/Imvula