From the PGP desk

December 2024

THE PGP TEAM IS A CLOSE-KNIT FAMILY WHOSE PURPOSE IS TO HELP THE FARMERS USE THE LAND THEY HAVE AVAILABLE TO GROW CROPS. THESE CROPS ARE PRODUCED FOR HOUSEHOLD USE AND TO CONTRIBUTE TO NATIONAL FOOD SECURITY.

IT’S PLANTING TIME

The planting dates are among the most important dates on the agricultural calendar – if you plant late, you will not manage a good crop. Farmers are urged to plant as soon as the soil moisture allows them to make a good seedbed.

EARLY DELIVERY OF INPUTS

This year the deliveries of inputs for the farmers in the Beyond Abundance Project have been earlier than ever. A big thank you to all the regional development managers and particularly to Eric Wiggill from the Eastern Cape office, who co-ordinated all the orders.

This year the farmers in this project will be planting 1 570 ha of maize. Hopefully the numbers can be increased every year as farmers realise the benefits of having good quality inputs delivered on time.

SO LONG TO A TRUSTED FRIEND

With the passing of years, times change, people join the team and some leave the team. Johan Kriel has been the regional development manager in the Free State since 2006. Under his guidance, the Free State produced many Farmer of the Year winners and many members of the 250 Ton Club.

Ntate Johan, as he is fondly known amongst the farmers, is loved by all who have known him. At the end of December, he is retiring from his position and will take up a role as mentor for various projects that require mentors.

Although it is almost like saying ‘goodbye’, everybody know that it is really ‘until we meet again’ because they hope that Johan will be around as a mentor for many years to come.

Publication: December 2024

Section: Pula/Imvula