Headlines from Food For Mzansi. News24x7 shows the headline and a short extract only — every link opens the full report on https://www.foodformzansi.co.za.
Publisher website: https://www.foodformzansi.co.za
African armyworms destroy maize, sorghum, and vital grazing pastures across Southern Africa. Standard synthetic chemicals often fail once caterpillars mature. However, a major biological breakthrough in KwaZulu-Natal revealed a naturally occurring soil fungus (Metarhizium rileyi) that wipes out…
Southern Cape grain and sheep producers face mounting pressures from global conflicts, climate volatility, and shifting trade policies. FNB’s Dawie Maree breaks down the key strategies producers need to protect their balance sheets and maintain long-term financial viability. How to secure your…
Confidence among SA agribusinesses rose to 53 points in Q3 2026. While strong crop harvests and high export values supported the rebound, the industry remains cautious over FMD, input costs, and a looming El Niño. Agribusiness confidence rebounds despite drought fears appeared first on Food For…
Can 520 square metres change a community’s future? Mahlubi Zibi and Mxolisi Tyiwa think so! They created Jonguluntu Urban Garden at Langa's St Francis Catholic Church to nourish crèche children with chemical-free, nutrient-dense produce. Langa urban garden feeds crèche, community to drive food…
Lesotho experts highlighted the need for research-backed livestock production and climate resilience at the recent Farmers Pitso Agriculture Week in Maseru. Sustainable livestock solutions take centre stage in Lesotho appeared first on Food For Mzansi
Farmers, industry leaders and Land Bank representatives unpacked the opportunities and pressures shaping agriculture in the Western Cape. The lunchtime conversation at Nampo Cape focused on new markets, water security, access to finance and the resilience needed to keep farming businesses growing…
A powerful El Niño is strengthening in the Pacific Ocean, bringing a heightened risk of heatwaves, severe drought, and erratic rainfall across Southern Africa. Climatologists warn that early agricultural planning, water infrastructure repairs, and proactive relief mechanisms are vital to protect…
After university, Lerato Moeli knew the theory of crop production, but stepping onto a commercial farm as a general worker gave her the practical foundation she needed. Today, she’s a soil health specialist, proving why hands-on farm experience matters for agri-graduates. Degree meets dirt: Lerato…
Day 1 of Food For Mzansi and Land Bank’s lunchtime conversation at Nampo Cape 2026 put farmer support in the spotlight. Executives called for smarter finance, stronger infrastructure and practical support to help farmers succeed. Leaders tackle finance and farmer support at Nampo Cape appeared…
Unreliable power supply and rising input costs are driving South African farmers toward renewable energy solutions like solar and biogas. Experts and producers weigh in on payback periods, waste-to-energy innovations, and navigating the initial capital investment. Rising energy costs: Can solar…
South Africa’s cherry industry has unlocked a major export milestone following a new trade protocol signed with China. The historic deal opens access to the world’s largest cherry market, promising to stimulate local agricultural investment and create approximately 600 jobs. South African cherry…
High feed costs are strangling poultry producers, says Ishmael Sunga, CEO of the Southern African Confederation of Agricultural Unions. Anchor partnerships and smart policy can lower poultry feed costs while creating thousands of rural jobs for young Africans. Bold policy can turn poultry feed…
Agri’s Got Talent 2026 has revealed its top 10 finalists, with agricultural professionals from across the Western and Eastern Cape ready to take the stage. From orchards and vineyards to export businesses, these talented finalists are preparing for a week of training before the grand finale. Meet…
Water is more than a utility; it is the lifeblood of farming and human dignity. Tauriq Jenkins of the Goringhaicona Khoi Khoin Traditional Indigenous Council shares why restoring water’s "personhood" and honouring indigenous knowledge are essential for Mzansi’s agricultural future. How indigenous…
Agriculture minister Willie Aucamp has intervened at Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP), leading to the precautionary suspension of acting CEO Dr Jacob Modumo. Allegations reveal OBP may have marked up crucial foot-and-mouth disease vaccines from R45 to as much as R130 per dose. OBP acting…
From global trade tensions and climate change to water security, infrastructure and innovation, Dr Ivan Meyer’s message to agriculture is ultimately about one thing: government cannot afford to move at the pace it always has. Agriculture may be rooted in the land, but the forces shaping its future…
Weaning is a make-or-break transition for your cattle herd. Learn how to keep your calves thriving by minimising separation stress, preparing the rumen, and protecting daily weight gain. Weaning calves: How to reduce stress for maximum weight gain appeared first on Food For Mzansi
Grain markets are facing a sharp pullback as funds take profits and geopolitical tensions shift. In this week’s GroundRules market update, agricultural economist Conce Moraba breaks down the fall in local maize, soybean, and wheat prices. Grain markets slide: Temporary pause or start of a…
Raw chillies sell for cents, but processed hot sauce turns into real profits. Tlhoks Vegis founder Letlhogonolo Leserwane argues that South Africa’s agricultural sector overlooks small-scale chilli processing and that policy, retailers, and extension services must rethink support for emerging…
The pork industry has faced unprecedented animal health challenges this past year, from ASF to 17 foot-and-mouth disease incidents. Sappo highlighted how strategic partnerships, biosecurity mentorship, and digital tracking transformed a crisis into long-term sector resilience. SA pork industry…
Farmers at the AgriCulture Gauteng Congress highlighted why practical support, market compliance, bank flexibility, and structured opportunities are essential for profitable farming. Young farmers need structured opportunities, not just open doors appeared first on Food For Mzansi
