February 16, 2018 | Author: Mike Stuart | Category: N/A
A handy reference for anyone involved in any part of the agricultural value chain in South Africa or the Southern Africa...
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Foreword by the Minister
Honourable Tina Joemat-Pettersson (MP) MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY AND FISHERIES
In a demanding world of constantly and fast-changing economic and social challenges such as increasing food prices, food insecurity and rural development, there are people who, although willing and enthusiastic, cannot realise their full potential. Contributing factors such as lack of skills, resources and opportunities could all play a role in limiting people’s achievements. To reach its full potential the country relies on a vibrant agriculture, forestry and fisheries sector in providing food and employment opportunities. Sustainable agriculture is also vital in the protection of our scarce resources, caring for the land and in plotting the way for future growth. I trust that as we page through the National Agricultural Directory 2011, useful addresses and numbers could become a business linkage tool through knowledge and information sharing. The information in the directory could also be useful in agricultural training and education, as well as empowerment and capacity building. A divergent range of clients, e.g. students, planners and business entrepreneurs, will all find the directory a valuable starting point and orientation in establishing future contacts. By regularly updating the Directory we also aim to ensure that the information remains relevant and focuses on the latest technology. May the Directory, or the websites, publications, and role players mentioned within these pages, provide answers to a wide range of challenges and queries in the agricultural field.
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NATIONAL
AGRICULTURAL
DIRECTORY
CONTENTS Introduction Africa and agriculture SADC and agriculture South Africa and agriculture The importance of rural development Agriculture and the provinces The urban question
8 15 20 22 29 34
National issues Biosecurity Black Economic Empowerment Climate change and global warming Emerging farmer support Energy Food Security HIV and Aids Human Settlements Labour and job creation Land reform People with disabilities Safety and security Water Women Youth
36 43 55 60 70 75 80 83 86 91 97 99 102 108 112
Capacity building, science and technology Agricultural education and training Careers and employment in agriculture The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) ICT and agricultural media Mapping Plant breeding and biotechnology Precision farming Precision livestock farming Science and research
116 128 139 140 145 146 152 154 155
Field crops and horticulture Barley Berries Canola Cassava Chicory Citrus fruit Coffee Cotton Cut-flowers and ornamental plants Deciduous fruit Dry beans Floriculture and nursery crops Forage and pastures Forestry Fruit
159 161 163 164 165 166 170 172 176 178 180 183 184 187 190
Grain and oilseeds Grapes Groundnuts Herbs and spices Honeybush Horticulture Indigenous Knowledge and African vegetables Indigenous medicinal plants Maize Other fibre crops Other grains and oilseeds Potatoes Rooibos Sorghum Soybeans Subtropical fruit Sugarcane Sunflowers Tea Tobacco Tree nuts Vegetables Wheat
193 198 201 202 205 207 211 217 221 225 228 229 231 233 234 236 240 241 244 246 249 252 258
Inputs Animal feeds Animal health Biocontrol Boreholes and windmills Compost and organic fertiliser Conservation tillage Crop protection Earthworms and vermicompost Fencing Fertigation Fertiliser Fleet maintenance and spare parts Forklifts Fuel and lubricants Grain storage and handling Implements Irrigation Livestock-related equipment Miscellaneous equipment Packaging Pumps and generators Seeds and seedlings Structures and building supplies Tractors, combines, balers Trailers Trucks and heavy machinery Tyres Undercover growing and hydroponics Use of animal power Water storage 4x4s and other vehicles
Disclaimer: We have tried to make this information � mentioned in the relevant chapters. We will not be held responsible for consequences of actions which may arise from information contained in this book.
261 264 269 272 274 276 280 286 288 291 292 300 303 304 309 314 315 320 321 323 325 327 333 334 339 340 341 342 347 349 351
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NATIONAL
AGRICULTURAL
DIRECTORY
CONTENTS Livestock Animal Improvement and Breeders Aquaculture Beef Beekeeping Dairy Donkeys Equine industry – horses Gamebirds, waterfowl and other poultry Goats Goats – mohair Goat and sheep dairy Indigenous breeds Livestock Ostriches Other livestock Pork Poultry Rabbits Sheep Sheep – wool Speciality fibre production Wildlife ranching
353 359 366 371 374 378 383 387 389 391 393 394 397 404 407 408 414 420 422 424 428 430
Marketing and finance Agribusinesses Agricultural shows and events Auctions – livestock Banks Commodity trading Co-operatives Development financial services Embassies and donor programmes Exporting Fibre trading Fresh produce markets Infrastucture and agricultural logistics Intellectual property rights Managing your finances Marketing Providers of financial services Risk management and insurance Supply chain management
434 443 446 448 456 463 468 473 475 481 483 490 493 498 502 508 512 518
Resources and Good Agricultural Practice Biodiversity Biological farming Birds and farming Conservancies and farming Environmental Impact Assessments and other legislation Fire Invasive Alien Species (IAS) LandCare Organic farming Permaculture Rainwater harvesting Rangeland / veld Renewable energy Soils Waste management Weather and climate Wetlands Wildlife on farms
Value add and agro-processing Agro-processing Abattoirs Baking Biofuels Canning and preserving Dairy Dried fruit Essential and vegetable oils Food safety and traceability Hunting Leather Milling Small and micro milling Winemaking
618 628 633 634 638 640 643 644 651 656 658 661 664 666
Roll of honour: our advertisers Without you this public resource would not be possible
Organised Agriculture and agricultural services Agricultural consultants Agricultural land valuations Legal aid and legislation Organised Agriculture Tourism and travel in agriculture
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520 525 527 531 538
Update your information by calling Rainbow SA at 011 485 2036 or by writing to
[email protected].
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Introduction Africa and agriculture 1. Introduction There has been much excitement over growth prospects for Africa, based largely on the oil and raw materials available on this continent. How much of increased investment and foreign interest will filter down to the poor remains to be seen. Agriculture, already the backbone of many of Africa’s economies, still holds out the greatest promise for making a difference, especially if it were to increase its agricultural industry (or value add / agroprocessing). It is … imperative for Africa to sharply and sustainably increase its agricultural productivity. No country in the world has managed to develop its economy and increase standards of living for its people without first significantly increasing agricultural productivity. About 80 per cent of Africans depend on agriculture in one way or another for their livelihood. Yet Africa’s yield per hectare for food crops is less than half the level in developing countries, less than 10 per cent of its arable land is irrigated, and fertiliser remains scarce – only 8kg per hectare as compared to a global average of 100kg per hectare. African policy-makers must embrace technology and develop their own technological solutions. African research institutions are pioneering new forms of irrigation that could transform the way staple foods are cultivated, fertilisers are available that can feed nutrient deficient soils, modern crop varieties can dramatically increase yields and new farming techniques can make processes significantly more efficient. Not only can it be done, but it has been done. In less than six years, the production of maize in Malawi has increased from under two million tons to well over 3.5 million tons, allowing the country to become an exporter of the crop to neighbouring countries. It is why, despite all the obstacles we face, I remain such an optimist when it comes to Africa’s agricultural development. Our continent has twelve times the land area of India, with only half the population to feed. With few exceptions, the distribution of cultivable land in sub-Saharan Africa is equitable compared to many other regions of the world. Moreover, the technology already exists, demonstrated through the success of improved varieties of cassava, rice and maize. I believe that with the right commitment, policies and technologies, Africa will better the Asian agricultural miracle of the 1970s and 80s – doing so in an environmentally sustainable way. Source: Joachim Chissano, former president of Mozambique, New Vision Online 25 August 2009 (adapted)
2. Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) In September 2000, 147 heads of State and Government endorsed the Millennium Declaration at the UN Millennium Summit. The declaration defines a limited number of achievable goals to be reached by the year 2015. The overall objective is to halve the proportion of the world’s population who live in absolute poverty. The entire group of UN member states, international organisations, funds, programmes and specialised agencies have committed themselves to fighting poverty and improving people’s lives.
MDGs are a framework of 8 goals, 18 targets and 48 indicators to measure progress towards these goals: Goal 1: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger. Goal 2: Achieve universal primary education. Goal 3: Promote gender equality and empower women. Goal 4: Reduce child mortality. Goal 5: Improve maternal health. Goal 6: Combat HIV/Aids, malaria, TB and other diseases. Goal 7: Ensure environmental sustainability. Goal 8: Develop a global partnership for development. Source: www.netpublikationer.dk/um/4888/index.htm
• Find the latest release of Africa Development Indicators which analyses the progress that African countries have made towards meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by 2015. The document is available on the World Bank website, www.worldbank. org • Find the Millennium Campaign pages at www.milleniumcampaign. org. See also the related websites of www.endpoverty2015.org, www.standagainstpoverty.org, www.noexcuse2015.org Accelerating growth in agriculture is critical not only to making progress towards MDG (Millennium Development Goal) 1, but also to sustained growth and industrial diversification in the wider African economy. It is estimated that agriculture accounts for around 75 per cent of employment, 40 per cent of exports and 35 per cent of GDP across the continent and it is clear that there is significant potential for the sector to compete more effectively at a global level. At the same time, in both rural and urban areas, poor people, particularly women, depend directly on agriculture for their livelihoods and food security. Policy makers are currently wrestling with the many complex issues associated with developing Africa’s agricultural sector. A wide range of well documented obstacles and bottlenecks – climatic problems, huge agro diversity, lack of irrigation, decline in rural infrastructure, poor links between local markets to the global economy, coupled to an unfair global trading regime – all conspire to repress Africa’s agricultural potential. Source: John Purchase, CEO of the Agricultural Business Chamber, writing for a publication by Business Action for Africa – 2008 MDGs at the midpoint.
3. Agriculture as a basis for growth “… Aid alone will not end poverty in Africa. Market access, fair terms of trade, and a non-discriminatory financial system are equally essential in helping Africans to lift themselves out of poverty and deprivation. “The path to prosperity begins at the fields of our farmers. Yet ours is the only continent that cannot feed itself. To address poverty at its core, we need a uniquely African green revolution. Our farmers need better seeds, soils and prices for what they sell. They need access to water, markets and credit. They need national policies that accelerate rural economic growth, investment and job creation”. Former UN secretary general Kofi Annan in the Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture delivered on July 22, 2007 in Johannesburg
The agricultural sector constitutes the economic backbone of most African countries, and this sector will remain the mainstay of pro-poor economic growth benefiting Africa’s poor. The sector is dominated by smallholders with land sizes usually not exceeding 1 hectare, which also includes livestock holders, small-scale agricultural processing enterprises and marketing actors.
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Increased agricultural production is necessary to fight starvation and malnutrition. Most poor people live in the countryside, and experience from high-performing economies shows that rapid growth in agricultural production and productivity is a precondition for economic take-off and sustained poverty reduction. Agricultural production is also critical since agricultural progress generates local demand for other goods and services. It is generally agreed that for every dollar income goes up in the agriculture sector total income in society goes up by around 2.5 US$, and agriculture will have to underpin the export performance of African countries for years to come. Source: www.netpublikationer.dk/um/4888/index.htm
The Multi-country Agricultural Productivity Programme (MAPP) was conceived in consultation with NEPAD, Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) and other stakeholders in the African and international community, together with the World Bank’s Environmentally and Socially Sustainable Development (ESSD) Network. The objective of MAPP is to improve agricultural research, technology development and dissemination. The MAPP vision seeks to improve the development and uptake of agricultural technologies to meet the Millennium Development Goals and in support of Pillar 4 of NEPAD’s Comprehensive Africa Agricultural Development Programme (CAADP). MAPP is implemented in the Africa Region by FARA, and guided by the Framework for African Agricultural Productivity (FAAP) developed by FARA. In Southern Africa, MAPP is currently being implemented by the Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources (FANR) directorate within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the programme is referred to as the SADC MAPP. Find more at www.sadc.int and www.fara-africa.org
4. New Partnership for Africa’s Development – NEPAD • NEPAD Dialogue is available weekly in English, French and Portuguese. If you are not on the regular mailing list and would like to receive free weekly e-newsletters, or you would like to update your subscription details, contact NEPAD by writing to
[email protected]. • Visit www.caadp.net for information on the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP). The heads of state and government in Africa have adopted the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) as a framework for the restoration of agriculture growth, rural development and food security in Africa. Through CAADP, NEPAD draws the attention of member governments to a wide range of actions to revitalise African agriculture and provides a framework for harmonised and collaborative responsive action. Five specific opportunities for improving Africa’s agriculture outlined by NEPAD are: • extend the area under sustainable land management and reliable water control systems; • improve rural infrastructure and trade-related capacities for market access; • increase food supply and reduce hunger; • improve agricultural research, technology dissemination and adoption; • improve responses to disasters and emergencies. NEPAD’s overall vision for agriculture seeks to maximise the contribution of Africa’s largest economic sector to achieve a self-reliant and productive Africa that can play its full part on the world stage. In essence, NEPAD aims for agriculture to deliver broad based economic advancement, to which other economic sectors, such as petroleum, minerals and tourism, may also contribute in significant ways, but cannot achieve on the same mass scale as agriculture. The NEPAD goal for the sector is an agricultural-led development that eliminates hunger, reduces poverty and food insecurity, opening the way for export expansion.
The vision for agriculture is that the continent should, by the year 2015: • attain food security (in terms of both availability and affordability and ensuring access of the poor to adequate food and nutrition); • improve the productivity of agriculture to attain an average annual growth rate of 6 percent, with particular attention to small-scale farmers, especially focusing on women; • have dynamic agricultural markets among nations and between regions; • have integrated farmers into the market economy including better access to markets, with Africa to become a net exporter of agricultural products; • achieve more equitable distribution of wealth; • be a strategic player in agricultural science and technology development; • practice environmentally sound production methods and have a culture of sustainable management of the natural resource base (including biological resources for food and agriculture) to avoid their degradation. NEPAD Planning and Coordinating Agency (NPCA) Tel: +27 11 256 3600 / +27 83 704 4506
[email protected] www.nepad.org Also go to www.nepad-caadp.net for more on CAADP Source: The NEPAD Secretariat
5. Regional Economic Communities (RECs) • Currently there are multiple regional blocs in Africa, also known as Regional Economic Communities (RECs), many of which have overlapping memberships. The RECs consist primarily of trade blocs and, in some cases, some political and military cooperation. • Most of these RECs form the ‘pillars’ of AEC , many of which also have an overlap in some of their member states. Due to this high proportion of overlap it is likely that some states with several memberships will eventually drop out of one or more RECs. Several of these pillars also contain subgroups with tighter customs and/or monetary unions of their own. CEN-SAD (Community of Sahel-Saharan States) www.cen-sad.org Benin Burkina Faso Central African Republic Chad Comoros Côte d’Ivoire Djibouti Egypt Eritrea Gambia
Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Kenya Liberia Libya Mali Mauritania Morocco
Niger Nigeria São Tomé and Príncipe Senegal Sierra Leonne Somalia Sudan Tunisia Togo
Arab Maghreb Union – UMA www.maghrebarabe.org/en/ Algeria Libya
Mauritania Morocco
Tunisia
Economic Community of West African States – ECOWAS www.ecowas.int Benin Burkina Faso Cape Verde Côte d’Ivoire Gambia
Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Liberia Mali
Niger Nigeria Senegal Sierra Leone Togo
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Economic Community of Central African States – ECCAS www.ceeac-eccas.org Angola Burundi Cameroon Central African Republic
Chad Congo-Brazzaville Congo-Kinshasa Equatorial Guinea
Gabon São Tomé and Príncipe
Intergovernmental Authority on Development – IGAD www.igad.org Djibouti Ethiopia Kenya
Somalia Sudan
Uganda Eritrea
Eastern African Community – EAC www.eac.int Kenya Tanzania
Uganda Burundi
Rwanda
Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa – COMESA www.comesa.int Burundi Comoros Democratic Republic of Congo Djibouti Egypt Eritrea
Ethiopia Kenya Libya Madagascar Malawi Mauritius Rwanda
Seychelles Sudan Swaziland Uganda Zambia Zimbabwe
Southern African Developmental Community – SADC www.sadc.int Angola Botswana Democratic Republic of Congo Lesotho Madagascar
Malawi Mauritius Mozambique Namibia Seychelles South Africa
Swaziland Tanzania Zambia Zimbabwe
A customs union is a free trade area with a common external tariff. Customs unions exist within these RECs e.g. the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), the East African Community, the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC) and the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA). All REC members are not necessarily members of the customs union operating within the REC.
6. Some contacts in Pretoria
Cameroon (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 460 0341 www.camhicom.co.za Central African Republic (Honorary Consulate-General) Tel: +27 11 970 1355
[email protected] Comores (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 342 0138 Congo-Brazzaville (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 342 5507/8
Mali (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 342 7464 / 0676 Mauritania (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 362 3578
[email protected] Mauritius (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 342 1283/4
[email protected] Morocco (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 343 0230
Cote D’Ivorie (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 342 6913/4
Mozambique (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 401 0300 www.mozbusiness.gov.mz
Democratic Republic of Congo (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 344 6475/6
Namibia (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 481 9100 www.namibia.org.za
Egypt (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 344 6042 / 343 1590
[email protected]
Nigeria (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 342 0805/ 0688 /0905
[email protected]
Equatorial Guinea (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 342 9945 / 6470
Rwanda (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 342 6536
[email protected]
Eritrea (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 333 1302
[email protected] Ethiopia (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 346 3542 Gabon (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 342 4376 www.gabonembassy.org.za Ghana (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 342 5847
[email protected] Guinea (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 342 7348 / 0893
[email protected] Kenya (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 362 2249/50 www.kenya.org.za Lesotho (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 460 7648 Liberia (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 342 2734/5
Find the directories at www.gcis.gov.za and www.dfa.gov.za. Postal and street addresses are included
Libya Tel: +27 12 342 3902
[email protected]
Algeria (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 342 5074-7
Botswana (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 430 9640
Madagascar (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 342 0983 /4 www.madagascar.org.za
Angola (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 342 4404
Burundi (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 342 4881
[email protected]
Malawi (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 430 9900
Senegal (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 460 5263 Sudan (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 342 4538/7903
[email protected] Swaziland (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 344 1910 www.swazihighcom.co.za Tanzania (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 342 4393/71 www.tanzania.org.za Trinidad and Tobago (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 460 9688
[email protected] Tunisia (Embassy) Tel: +27 12 342 6282/3 Uganda (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 342 6031/3 www.uganda.org.za Zambia (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 326 1854 / 47 www.zambiapretoria.net Zimbabwe (High Commission) Tel: +27 12 342 5125
[email protected]
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7. International organisations involved The bimonthly bulletin from the Forum for Agricultural Research (FARA) is a feast of relevant information. Write to
[email protected] • Africa Investor “supplies a broad range of investment data, research, broadcast and published content to a growing number of investors with interests in Africa”. Find resources and news at www.africa-investor. com. Look for the “Agriculture” menu option. • African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) – www.achpr.org • African Union (AU) – www.africa-union.org • African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) – www.acbf-pact. org, “Building sustainable human and institutional capacity for poverty reduction in Africa”. • Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (Agra) – www.agraalliance.org. AGRA is a dynamic, African-led partnership working across the African continent to help millions of small-scale farmers and their families lift themselves out of poverty and hunger. AGRA programmes develop practical solutions to significantly boost farm productivity and incomes for the poor while safeguarding the environment. • Business Action For Africa – www.businessactionforafrica.org - is an international network of businesses and business organisations from Africa and elsewhere. Find their eLibrary and case studies. • CTA (Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation) – www.cta.int. Agritrade (see http://agritrade.cta.int), other newsletters and publications are available from them. • Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) – www.cgiar.org. Thousands of agricultural and related industries publications are available on the website. • Developing Countries Farm Radio Network – www.farmradio. org – gathers and researches information about successful, low-cost practices in sustainable agriculture, nutrition, health and community development, and produce radio scripts for broadcast. • Diaspora African Forum (DAF) – www.diasporaafricanforum.com. The DAF provides “the vital linkage for diaspora Africans to become involved in Africa’s development as well as reap the fruits of African unity”. • East Africa Farmers Federation (EAFF) – www.eaffu.org • Economic Partnerships Agreements (EPAs) visit http://epa.tralac. org/ • Eldis is one of a family of knowledge services at the Institute of Development Studies, Sussex, UK. Find the Eldis Agriculture and Development Reporter at www.eldis.org. • Food, Agricultural and Natural Resources Policy Analysis Network (FANRPAN) – www.fanrpan.org • Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) – www.fao.org • Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) – www.faraafrica.org • Forum on China-Africa Co-operation – www.focac.org/eng • The G8 countries: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, United Kingdom and the USA. • www.au-appo.org – website of the Inter-African Phytosanitary Council • International Centre for Soil Fertility and Agricultural Development (IFDC) – www.ifcd.org • International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) – www. ifad.org • International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) – www.ifpri. org • International Institute for Sustainable Development – www.iisd. org • International Trade Centre – www.intracen.org • Integrated Regional Information Networks (IRIN) is part of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Find the “Africa” menu option at www.irinnews.org. • Market Access Map – “making import tariffs and market barriers transparent”: www.macmap.org • Mo Ibrahim Foundation publishes an annual index of good governance. The list rates sub-Saharan African countries by a set of indicators, including safety and security, rule of law, participation and human rights, sustainable economics and human development. The award, in excess of $5-million, dwarfs the Nobel Peace Prize. • The New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) is the AU’s blueprint for socio-economic development on the continent. See heading 4.
• The NEPAD Business Council is a formation of Africans living in the US and Europe, who have created a vehicle for co-coordinating participation in the development and implementation of the NEPAD programme. • The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) puts out economic outlooks for countries of the world. The 2009 African Economic Outlook 2009 covered 47 African countries, up from the 35 the previous year. Find reports, statistics and summaries at www.oecd.org/africa. Also take a look at the “Bookshop” option. • Pan-African Parliament – www.pan-african-parliament.org • Pan African Platform for the farmer of Africa – contact SACAU (find details in the SADC chapter). • Pax-Africa – www.paxafrica.org, “African peace and security agenda” • PROPAC – The association representing farmers in Central Africa • Most of the REC websites (mentioned under heading 5) have a menu option in which agriculture features. • ROPPA (Network of Farmers’ and Agricultural Producers’ Organisations of West Africa) – www.roppa.info • Tokyo International Conference on African Development www.ticad.net • United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) – www.undp. org.za. Of particular interest is the “GEF Small Grants Programme”. The contact number in Pretoria is 012 354 8166. • United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) – www.uneca.org • United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) – www.unido.org • Find the current world production, market and trade reports at http:// www.fas.usda.gov/currwmt.asp the Foreign Agricultural Service arm of the US Department of Agriculture. • World Bank – www.worldbank.org. Its private sector lending arm, the International Finance Corporation, agreed to almost double its investment in agribusiness in Africa in 2009. Find different publications and reports on the website. Its annual report covers the external financing of developing countries. The Africa Competitive Report highlights areas where urgent policy action and investments are needed, while the Africa Development Indicators provide the most detailed collection of data on Africa. A vast stretch of African savannah land that spreads across 25 countries has the potential to turn several African nations into global players in bulk commodity production, according to a study published by FAO and the World Bank in 2009. The book is entitled Awakening Africa’s Sleeping Giant - Prospects for Commercial Agriculture in the Guinea Savannah Zone and Beyond. • World Economic Forum – www.weforum.org • World Food Programme (WFP) – www.wfp.org • World Meteorological organization (WMO) – www.wmo.ch • World Trade Organisation – www.wto.org. Find the latest international trade statistics. Some 250 tables and charts depict trade developments from various perspectives.
8. South African roleplayers • Access Congo Intelligence & Facilitation – www.accesscongo. com • African Economic Research Consortium – www.aercafrica.org, “providing the evidence base for policy making in Africa”. Find the “Newsletter” and “Publications” options. • Africa Institute of South Africa (AISA) – www.ai.org.za. This is “an independent research organisation and think-tank, focussing on Africa in its research, publications and resource library”. • AFRICA the good news – www.africagoodnews.com – looks at stories that the reader may not have noticed. • Africa Project Access – www.africaprojectaccess.co.za. • Read about the role that agribusinesses have to play in releasing Africa’s agricultural potential on the Agricultural Business Chamber website www.agbiz.co.za. Find the document “Accelerated businessled growth and collective action to reach the Millennium Development Goals”. • AGRIFICA promotes and facilitates agricultural development in Africa. A quarterly magazine The Farm Africa is put out in addition to market research and project promotion. AGRIFICA also runs the Agribusiness Africa Annual Conference and Exhibition. Visit www.agrifica.co.za
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• A number of reports related to trade and agriculture in Africa can be found on the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries website – www.daff.gov.za. • Bizcommunity.com has launched an African edition of its email newsletter for the marketing, media and advertising industries. Countries targeted include: Algeria, Angola, Cote d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Seychelles, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe – view africa. bizcommunity.com. • Read about the African Agricultural Development Programme (AADP), a technical assistance programme (TAP) established by the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF), at www. daff.gov.za. A number of reports related to trade and agriculture in Africa can be found here too. • Find the “African Union and NEPAD” menu option on the Department of International Relations and Cooperation website – www.dfa. gov.za . The “Regional Economic Communities” option provides links to CEN-SAD, COMESA, ECCAS, ECOWAS, IGAD, SADC and UMA websites. • Executive Research Associates puts out a newsletter covering developments in Africa. Visit www.erassociates.co.za for more. • Find the column “African News” in every issue of Farmer’s Weekly for news on agriculture in Africa. • The Foundation for the Development of Africa runs several websites: www.foundation-development-africa.org and www. isupportafrica.com are two of these. Receive newsletters by emailing
[email protected]. • Institute for Global Dialogue – www.igd.org.za. An “independent South African NGO broadly concerned with key issues in international affairs, and how these affect South Africa, Southern Africa and Africa as a whole”. • The Institute of Security Studies (ISS) website contains a wealth of information relating to Africa, including news headlines, database of “African Fact Files”, abbreviations, trade agreements, publications and more. Visit www.iss.co.za. • Joint Agribusiness Department of Agriculture Forum for Africa (JADAFA) – www.jadafa.co.za – is a joint venture between agribusiness and the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in South Africa. • Science in Africa – “Africa’s first on-line magazine”: www. scienceinafrica.co.za • www.tradeinvestnigeria.com – aimed at anyone who may have an interest in doing business or investing in Nigeria and Kenya. Look for the “Agriculture and Agri-processing” menu option on their newsletters, and for articles like “’Agrologistics’ at home and abroad’”. • Trade Law Centre for Southern Africa (TRALAC), www.tralac. org, has an electronic newsletter which often looks beyond Southern Africa to the wider issues on the continent. • www.letsgrowafrica.com – a South African based site for agricultural products and services Standard Bank has an extensive Africa footprint puts it in an ideal position to facilitate trade flows into and out of Africa. It focuses on a broad range of industries and sectors, including mining and commodities; energy (oil and gas); capital goods (linked to infrastructural spend); and agriculture. Find out more at www.standardbank.co.za
9. African country profiles • The Mbendi website, www.mbendi.co.za gives updates on all economic sectors in Africa, including Agriculture. The website has helpful overviews of the different countries. Included on this website are African exchange rates – www.mbendi.co.za/cyexch.htm. A regular eNewsletter is available. • Visit www.nationmaster.com - take either the “Countries A-Z” or “Agriculture” menu options for statistics. • http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Agriculture_by_country - notes on wikipedia on agriculture in 108 different countries Our thanks to Andrew Kanyegirire at NEPAD for feedback on the draft chapter
Introduction Southern African Developmental Community (SADC) and agriculture 1. Overview Visit www.sadcreview.com for the latest SADC trade, industry and investment reviews and reports. Agricultural production figures/statistics and news are included. • The potential of the SADC region in terms of trade and market opportunity is immense, with SADC possessing a market of some 250 million people, compared to South Africa’s 47 million plus. • Three countries (the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Africa and Tanzania) account for almost two thirds of the total SADC population (64.4%), while the five smallest members (Swaziland, Mauritius, Botswana, Namibia and Lesotho) comprise 4%. • The picture is a mixed one. In a region that has abundant resources, 40 % of the people live on less than one US dollar per day. Yet while we know about the booming economic growth of countries like China and India, we are not as aware that some of the fastest growing economies in the world are right on our doorstep e.g. Angola, Botswana, Mauritius and Mozambique. • The success of South Africa’s economy – agriculture included – is interlinked with that of the region. • Strategic Priority 8 of the Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF) is “pursuing African advancement and enhanced international cooperation”. The MTSF is dealt with in the next chapter. The Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) and the Strategic Indicative Plan of the Organs (SIPO) contain SADC’s long-term strategy for: • deepening regional integration; • contributing to accelerated economic growth; • eradication of poverty; and • achievement of sustainable pattern of economic growth. Economic integration in SADC is guided by the Trade Protocol, which was signed in 1996 and ratified in 2000. For a background and updates on goods that have been accorded duty-free status according to the Customs and Excise Act, or on what the duties are on your commodity, visit the webpages of the Trade Law Centre for Southern Africa (TRALAC) www.tralac.org. The Southern African Development Community is to have set up a Customs Union by 2010, a Common Market by 2015, and a Monetary Union by 2018. SADC commitments and strategic objectives more specific to agriculture are contained in the Dar-es-Salaam Declaration of 2004. SADC is also in the process of developing a Regional Agricultural Policy (RAP) scheduled to be presented for endorsement in the next two or three years. For more info on the RAP, contact Mr Martin Muchero, the RAP co-ordinator:
[email protected] Since most SADC economies are pre-dominantly agricultural based and food dominates agricultural trade among SADC countries, enhanced trade in value-added agricultural products potentially provides a tool for fighting poverty in the region, promoting regional integration, and increasing economic growth and welfare. Source: www.agro-ind2008.com; President Mwanawasa, 2008 SADC Chairman, addressing the opening of the SADC International Summit Conference on Poverty and Development; Jerry Vilakazi, CEO of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA); Buanews; Trade Law Centre for Southern Africa (Tralac)
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The success of agriculture is linked to progress in the region. Agriculture must be competitive and profitable … any gap in the market is quickly occupied by foreign competition. We have to look from a southern African perspective, not only from the South African one. Farmers and agribusinesses, our commodities – be they crops (e.g. sugarcane and maize) or value-added products – will get a boost from regional progress and co-operation. Hans van der Merwe, CEO Agri SA
2. Roleplayers See also the “Africa and agriculture” and “Infrastructure and agrologistics” chapters. Numerous SADC roleplayers are also listed in the “Science and research” chapter Africa Project Access Tel: +27 11 465 6770 www.africaprojectaccess.co.za Africa Trade Centre Tel: +27 72 276 6923 www.africa-trade-centre.com African Micro Mills Tel: +27 31 584 6250 www.africanmicromills.com
Electoral Institute of Southern Africa (EISA) Tel: +27 11 482 5495 www.eisa.org.za Department of International Relations and Co-operation Tel: +27 12 351 1000 www.dfa.gov.za
Federation of East and Southern African Road Transport “Driving profitable grain milling and Associations (FESARTA) basic food production in SADC” www.fesarta.org Agri Inspec – see FIRMS Agricultural Business Chamber (ABC) Tel: +27 12 807 6686 www.agbiz.co.za
FIRMS Tel: +27 12 843 5640 www.agriinspec.co.za The company has extensive expertise in the field of forensic investigations and market protection and also specialises in matters relating to international trade remedies. Agri Inspec is one of the divisions
The ABC is a roleplayer in bodies such as the NEPAD Business Foundation (NBF) and JADAFA (Joint Agribusiness Department of Agriculture Forum for Africa which aims to eliminate trade blocks and Food, Agriculture and Natural non-tariff barriers to encourage Resources Policy Analysis trade and investment into Africa). Network (FANRPAN) Tel: +27 12 804 2966 / 3186 Agricultural Tours Worldwide www.fanrpan.org Tel: +27 82 447 7718
[email protected] To promote effective Food, www.agritoursandtravel.com Agriculture and Natural Resources (FANR) policies by: AGRIFICA Tel: +27 12 804 9729 • facilitating linkages and www.agrifica.co.za partnerships between government and civil society; Agrifica is an Agricultural • building the capacity for policy Intelligence Company with services analysis and policy dialogue in southern Africa, and such as projects, market research, supporting demand-driven networking events to promote policy research and analysis. Agricultural development and encourageTrade and investment Forum for Agricultural Research for farming success in Africa. (FARA) Association of SADC Chambers
[email protected] (Chair) of Commerce and Industry
[email protected] (Executive Director) (ASCCI) C/o South African Chamber of www.fara-africa.org Commerce and Industry (SACCI) Gordon Institute of Business Tel: 011 446 3800 Science (GIBS) www.sacci.org.za African Leadership Programme (LBF) Business Unity South Africa Tel: +27 11 771 4302 (BUSA) www.gibs.ac.za Tel: +27 11 784 8000 www.busa.org.za
Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Tel: +27 11 269 3000 www.idc.co.za
SADC Secretariat Directorate of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources (FANR). Tel: +267 39 51863 (Gaborone) www.sadc.int
The Industrial Development Corporation has been utilised by The main functions of the FANR South Africa as the primary catalyst Directorate include: for South African investment in Mozambique, South Africa’s • development of sustainable second largest export market in food security policies and programmes; Southern Africa. • development, promotion Maputo Corridor Logistics and harmonisation of policies and gender development Initiative (MCLI) strategies and programmes; Tel: +27 13 755 6025 www.mcli.co.za • development, promotion and harmonisation of bio-diversity, phytosanitary, sanitary, See also www.mdc.org.za - Maputo crop and animal husbandry Development Corridor policies; • development of measures to Mining Industry Associations of increase agricultural output Southern Africa (MIASA) and the development of agrowww.miasa.org.za based industries; • development, promotion and NEPAD Business Foundation harmonisation of policies and Tel: +27 11 884 1888 programmes aimed at effective www.nepadbusinessfoundation. and sustainable utilisation org AND www.thenbf.co.za of natural resources such as Water, Wildlife, Fisheries and Programme for Agricultural Forestry; Information Services (PRAIS) • development and Tel: +27 51 401 2739 / 225 harmonisation of sound www.uovs.ac.za/prais environmental management policies; PRAIS is a partnership between • promotion of trade in the University of the Free State agricultural products. and the CTA (Technical Centre for Agriculture and Rural Co-operation – based in the Netherlands. See One of the programmes is ICART www.cta.int). PRAIS provides (Implementation &Co-ordination of the SADC Agricultural Systems Agricultural Research & Training in stakeholders with information the SADC Region). Call +267 395 1863 or email
[email protected] services on demand. Small Enterprise Development Corporation (SEDCO) Tel: +268 404 2811/2
[email protected]
South Africa Angola Chamber of Commerce Tel: +27 11 723 9000 www.sa-acc.co.za
This is a parastatal under the Swaziland’s Ministry of Enterprise and Employment. SEDCO’s role in the SME sector is the promotion of small businesses. A focus is on agrobusinesses: facilitation of “business linkages” (small & big businesses), value-adding, export / import etc.
South Africa Mozambique Chamber of Commerce Tel: +27 72 145 0129
[email protected] www.samozacc.co.za
SADC Banking Association Tel: +27 11 645 6700 www.sadcbanking.org
South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) Tel: +27 11 399 2021 www.saiia.org.za “African insights”
perspectives.
Global
Find the link to Public Private Southern African Confederation Partnerships in SADC on this of Agricultural Unions (SACAU) website or visit www.ip3.org Tel: +27 12 644 0808
[email protected] SADC Business Forum (SBF) www.sacau.org Mr Maszwe Majola Tel: 076 230 3148/083 984 0512 SACAU is open to all national autonomous farmer-governed SADC Employers Group organisations within the SADC Tel: +27 11 784 8000 region as well as regional
[email protected] commodity associations. It is involved in agriculture development SADC Parliamentary Forum in the region by strengthening Tel: +264 612 870000 the capacities of Farmers’
[email protected] Organisations, by providing a www.sadcpf.org collective voice for farmers on
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regional and global matters, and by providing agriculture related information to its members and other stakeholders.
is seen as a mechanism to combat crime in SADC, particularly important during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
SACAU has currently 14 members Southern African Railways from 10 countries in Southern Association (SARA) Africa: Tel: +263-4-736777/8 www.sararail.org • Agri SA and the National African Farmers’ Union Southern African Regional (NAFU); Poverty Network (SARPN) • Botswana Agricultural Union www.sarpn.org.za (BAU); • Lesotho National Farmers The Southern Africa Trust “supports processes to deepen and widen Union (LENAFU); • Fédération Chrétienne participation in policy dialogue with des Paysans Malagasy a regional impact on poverty”. Visit (FEKRITAMA) and the www.southernafricatrust.org Coalition Paysanne de Madagascar (CPM); Standard Bank • Farmers Union of Malawi Tel: +27 11 299 4701 (FUM) and the National www.standardbank.co.za Smallholder Farmers’ Association of Malawi Standard Bank services 18 sub(NASFAM); Saharan countries and 21 countries • Namibia Agricultural Union on other continents, including the (NAU) ; key financial centres of Europe, the • Seychelles Farmers Association United States and Asia. (SEYFA); • Agricultural Council of Trade Law Centre for Southern Tanzania (ACT); Africa (Tralac) • Zambia National Farmers Tel: +27 21 880 2010 www.tralac.org Union (ZNFU); • The Zimbabwe Farmers Union (ZFU) and the Commercial Subscribe to TRALAC’s newsletters Farmers Union of Zimbabwe to stay abreast of trade issues in (CFU) Africa, SADC in particular. It also closely works with the Swaziland National Agricultural Union (SNAU) and has an MoU with UNAC of Mozambique.
The Trade Law Chambers (International) Tel: 021 880 2010 www.tradelawchambers.co.za
Regional commodity bodies include the Eastern and Southern African Dairy Association (ESADA); the Southern Africa Poultry Association (SAPA); SADC Poultry Forum; SADC Cane Growers Association; Horticultural Council of Africa (HCA); Southern Africa Livestock and Meat Forum (SALMF); Eastern Africa Fine Coffee Association (EAFCA); and the African Cotton and Textile Industry Federation (ACTIF).
Business focus on Agribusinesses needing to explore the impact of trade agreements (WTO, SADC, SACU, EU) on their businesses and needing advice on market access tariffs, antidumping and anti-subsidies issues or facing SPS barriers, Companies wanting to develop a trade regulatory strategy.
Southern African Enterprise Network Tel: +264 61 272203 Fax: +264 61 271007 In 2009, South Africa’s Bheki Cele was appointed chairperson of Southern African Regional Police Chiefs Cooperation Organisation (SARPCCO). SARPCCO is seen
University of Pretoria SADC Centre for Land Related, Regional and Development Policy Tel: +27 12 420 4515
[email protected] www.sadc-centre.up.ac.za
3. Websites and publications Find the websites listed next to roleplayers listed in the Africa chapter
The official SADC website is www.sadc.int. Visit other websites listed earlier in this chapter e.g. www.sadcpf.org. Take the “US-SACU” menu option at www.bilaterals.org. www.sadctrade.org – The SADC Trade Development Project. Find menu options like “SADC Trade Database”, “Other SADC Trade Resources” and more. Find the “Member countries” option at www.fanrpan.org. Articles and papers are captured from countries in the Southern Africa region. Find the “Research papers” under the publications option on www.daff.gov. za. A number of these deal with intra-African trade e.g. “Trade potential between South Africa and Angola”. Included in the latest “Abstract of Agricultural Statistics” on the same website is the following information: • Value of the Southern African Custom Union agricultural products • Value of the Southern African Custom Union agricultural products by country of destination • Value of the Southern African Custom Union agricultural products • Value of the Southern African Custom Union agricultural products by country of origin
(SACU) exports of (SACU) exports of (SACU) imports of (SACU) imports of
Find the “SADC Information” menu option on www.sagis.org.za. This provides information as to the grain situation within the Southern African Development Community. Find websites of the various SADC trade missions e.g. www.zambiapretoria. net and www.swazihighcom.co.za. A list of the embassies/high commissions can be found in the previous chapter. Find the websites of SACAU affiliates like the Zambia National Farmers Union, www.znfu.org.za, and the National Small Farmer’s Association of Malawi, www.nasfam.org. The magazine Pax-Africa deals with SADC issues. Visit www.paxafrica.org. Regional Hunger and Vulnerability Programme (RHVP) – www.wahenga. net Trade Law Centre for Southern Africa (TRALAC), www.tralac.org, has an electronic newsletter which often looks beyond Southern Africa to the wider issues on the continent. Our thanks to Stephanie Aubin of SACAU for valuable feedback
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Introduction South Africa and agriculture 1. Overview If you were asked to form a government and lead your country into the next decade, what would you do first? You would probably make a list of priorities, goals to steer your policies. A vibrant economy enables its people to earn a living and to improve on life as we know it. This would include functioning infrastructure, access to credit and entrepreneurial possibilities. Social issues and political stability are vital too – safety and security, a functional justice system, political stability, equal opportunities. The environment, something we take for granted, is a priority (see the Resources and Good Agricultural Practice section). It is no good if the resources that support us are degraded and depleted. Many of the issues that face us as national priorities are pointed to in the National Issues category of this publication. This is not to say that other issues are unimportant, of course, and numerous points for debate and concern are touched on elsewhere in the National Agricultural Directory. After the national elections in 2009, Mr Jacob Zuma and his team sat down to plan the way forward for this country. They worked out the five-year Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF), a framework to guide government’s programme in the electoral mandate period 2009 – 2014. It was released by The Presidency and can be downloaded at www.presidency.gov.za (it can also be found elsewhere e.g. www.polity. org.za). The priorities outlined in the MTSF are to be translated into the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) of government ministers, against which their performance over this term will be measured. The Strategic Priorities listed in the MTSF are: 1. Speed up growth and transform the economy to create decent work and sustainable livelihoods. 2. Massive programme to build economic and social infrastructure. 3. Comprehensive rural development strategy linked to land and agrarian reform and food security. 4. Strengthen the skills and human resource base. 5. Improve the health profile of all South Africans. 6. Intensify the fight against crime and corruption. 7. Build cohesive, caring and sustainable communities. 8. Pursuing African advancement and enhanced international cooperation. 9. Sustainable Resource Management and use. 10. Building a developmental state including improvement of public services and strengthening democratic institutions.
2. Agriculture and the GDP (Gross Domestic Product) • We need food to survive, and agriculture is central to the process which brings that food to our plates. • Much is linked to the spark which is agriculture, and numerous studies point to its “multiplier effect” on other sectors: a Rand spent in agriculture achieves more than a Rand spent anywhere else (see heading 3). • Agriculture provides the economic base on which most of our rural areas are based. Increasingly, it is an urban activity too (see The Urban Question chapter). • According to the Census of Commercial Agriculture 2007, the number of farming units is 39 982, as opposed to 45 818 in 2002. • GDP (Gross Domestic Product) is a measure of economic production – and often standard of living – of a country. Agriculture’s share of the GDP is placed at somewhere between 2.8 and 3 percent.
• A standard model of economic growth shows that as a country develops, its primary activities (agriculture included) take a lower percentage in that country’s GDP, secondary activities (e.g. manufacturing and processing) and the services sector taking an increasingly larger share. • The fact that agriculture’s share of the South African GDP is shrinking is to be expected since we have economic growth. Agriculture grows – but not at the same speed as other sectors. • Because of the linkages with other sectors (see next heading), some sources prefer to view agriculture in a wider context, referring to the “agro-food industry” instead. Viewed this way, the GDP rises to 14% and higher, depending on which sources one uses. If one includes all the forward and backward linkages (see heading 3), then the contribution grows to between 20% and 30%. • Agriculture remains a cornerstone and the country’s lifeblood, whatever its share of the GDP. On a national level we are food secure because of agriculture. It is crucial for a country to maintain its agricultural sector so that its need for basic foodstuff can be met. The First World countries know this. It is not out of spite that they hold onto those (trade-distorting) agricultural subsidies. Their farmers do more than just look after the countryside.
3. Linkages and the farm Nothing happens in a vacuum, and agriculture is no exception. It is dependent on inputs (often referred to as what is “upsteam”) and conditions which make it possible, and agriculture in turn provides the raw material for the agro-food industries “downstream”. By looking at it in context, we see that agriculture allows for much in our world to be what it is. The Careers and Employment in Agriculture chapter recognises this in providing brief overviews of careers that ostensibly have nothing to do with farming. But look closer: • Agriculture means that there is a market for inputs, and so we have, along with the businesses that supply tractors, vehicles and equipment, various individuals who are mechanics, managers, accountants, electricians etc. • Agriculture creates a market for services. It is an economic industry, and so economists have their role to play in charting the waters and making sense of where the ship is going. Many of these human beings are involved in the trading and marketing of agricultural produce. • Financial services are required, and so the individuals who find employment as bankers and financers step up to take their place in the line. • Human beings who do social and legal work, and others whom we would designate “politicians” are also included in the picture because agriculture takes place within a social and political context. • Farmers and future farmers require skills – enter the human beings who find their living in capacity building, whether this be as extension officers (see Emerging Farmer Support chapter), teachers, AgriSETA training providers or lecturers (see Agricultural Education & Training chapter). • Because South Africa operates in a global environment, we require upto-date knowledge to be competitive, otherwise we lose our markets overseas and the local ones will be snapped up by producers from outside our country. Enter the researchers and people looking for innovative ways to produce and do things we have done in the past but to do these things more effectively (lower price, better margins/ profits, less effort etc) • Enter, too, the people working in media who keep the agricultural community informed, whether this be about research and technological outputs or agricultural news. We could continue, but having made our point we will leave this for the reader who is intrigued by the idea to explore it further. Agriculture itself is an important source of employment, especially because of the large number of dependants per farm worker (refer to the “Labour and job creation” chapter). Along with food processing, it is one of the largest suppliers of jobs. Investment in agriculture and promoting the conditions under which agriculture happens is consistent with pro-poor strategies because of agriculture’s place in the rural areas. Some 65 percent of the poor in South Africa reside here (refer to The Importance of Rural Development chapter).
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4. Websites and publications • The reader is pointed to daily and weekly sources of information in the “ICT and agriculture media” chapter, and relevant publications and websites are listed in almost every chapter of the book. • Visit www.info.gov.za for news of government programmes and contact details for the various departments. • Find the latest Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) report on South Africa. Visit www.oecd.org/ southafrica. • Find the quarterly economic overviews on www.daff.gov.za - take the “Publications” and then “economic analysis” menu options. The Global, Sub-Saharan African and South African economies are looked at. Find also the Trends in the Agricultural Sector documents at the same place.
5. National strategy and government contacts Find details of the farmer unions Agri SA, the National African Farmers Union (NAFU SA) and TAU SA in the Organised Agriculture chapter. Roleplayers within the different sectors are listed in the relevant chapters, mostly under the headings “Companies Involved”, “Training and research” and “Roleplayers”. Of particular relevance to agriculture, the following changes were made to government departments after the 2009 election: • Agriculture was separated from Land Affairs whilst picking up Forestry and Fisheries. • Rural development (a new ministerial mandate) linked up with Land Reform. • The Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF) became the Department of Water and Environmental Affairs. • The previous Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) became simply the Department of Tourism. Find information about and contact details for all government departments at www. info.gov.za
Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Switchboard: 012 319 6000 www.daff.gov.za Agriculture is in the process of merging with Forestry and Fisheries, and names of directorates and contact details given in this directory are likely to change during 2010. The reader is encouraged to visit www.daff.gov.za for information. Contact details and names of directorates are available, in January 2010, under the “Divisions” menu option.
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Introduction The importance of rural development 1. Overview • Poverty affects millions of people, with the majority of them being women and children living in rural areas. Of the 17 million poor people in South Africa, at least 11 million live in rural areas. • The rural economy is inextricably linked to agricultural production. Even if these people are not engaged in agriculture, they rely on nonfarm employment and income that depends in some way or another on agriculture • The challenge for the agricultural sector is not only to produce more food, but also to create income-generating employment for poor people inside and outside agriculture, on a sustainable basis. Source: A paper by Meyer NG, Jooste A, Breitenbach MC and Fenyés TI The economic rationale for agricultural regeneration and rural infrastructure investment in South Africa
Being born in a rural area or the countryside should not condemn people to a life of poverty and underdevelopment, says President Jacob Zuma. “Our vision for the development of rural areas arises from the fact that people in the rural areas also have a right to basic necessities. “They have a right to electricity, water, flush toilets, roads, entertainment and sport centres. They have a right to shopping centres, good schools and other amenities like their compatriots in urban areas,” said the President. He said that people living in rural areas also have the right to be helped with farming so that they can grow vegetables and raise livestock to be able to feed their families. Achieving this is one of government’s top priorities. Speaking at the launch of the Comprehensive Rural Development Programme (CRDP) aimed at radically transforming rural areas, the President said government would not rest for as long as there were rural dwellers who were unable to make a decent living from the land on which they live. Source: Buanews 17 Aug 2009
2. National strategy and government departments • The vision of the Comprehensive Rural Development Programme (CRDP) is to enable rural people to play a meaningful role in the economy, thereby dealing effectively with rural poverty through the productive use and management of natural resources at their disposal. To achieve this, a three branched strategy of Agrarian Transformation, Rural Development and Land Reform is planned. DAFF will lead the Agrarian Transformation Programme of the CRDP together with the provinces and local authorities. Read about the CRDP at www.info. gov.za and find updates at www.buanews.gov.za.
• South Africa’s Integrated Sustainable Rural Development Strategy (ISRDS) is the main framework for rural poverty reduction with a time frame of 2001-2010. The National Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs is responsible for the ISRDS, and runs a dedicated website at http://isrdp.dplg.gov.za • The departments of Water and Environmental Affairs (DWEA); Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF); Transport; Housing; Labour; Trade and Industry (dti); and Social Development at national level all have programmes and mechanisms for rural development. Moreover, each provincial government has completed, or is completing, a rural development plan that identifies focus areas and nodes, based on structured applications of a range of criteria. • Included in Government’s Poverty Reduction Programmes and Projects are rural-based ones linked to the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP) and the Integrated Sustainable Rural Development Programme (ISRDP).
3. Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) and rural development See the chapter on Black Economic Empowerment Some 85% of rural people live in the former homelands. The rest live on commercial farms and in the small towns. The Integrated and Sustainable Rural Development Strategy (ISRDS) policy document describes a bleak picture of the state of our rural areas: • The deepest poverty in South Africa is found in the rural areas. Women form the majority of the rural population and female-headed households are particularly disadvantaged. Three quarters of the children in the rural areas live in households with incomes below the minimum subsistence level. The poorest households also have low levels of literacy and education, difficult and time-consuming access to water, fuel and other services, and few opportunities of gainful employment. This results in high levels of malnutrition, morbidity and mortality of children. • An understanding of the sources of rural household incomes provides another perspective on the nature of rural poverty: 4.3% of rural households are totally marginalised and have no income; 11.4% are dependent only on pensions; 16.2% are dependent only on unreliable remittances; and 9.9% are dependent on reliable remittances. Women head the majority of these households. From the BEE Commission Report, earlier this decade, you could add: • Rural housing is often substandard or nonexistent, and many people are migrants working in urban areas. Many of them are still living in urban dormitories with attendant difficulties maintaining family and social ties. As a result, the rural-urban continuum takes a particular form in South Africa. The level of interdependence between rural communities and distant large cities is higher than elsewhere, but there is a less organic linkage between rural areas and the towns near them. Rural empowerment is directly relevant to the following elements of the Codes of Good Practice: • Ownership. Broad-based groupings are often rural communities or have a rural component. • Enterprise Development (ED). While ED is not explicitly directed at rural communities, it is in keeping with the spirit of the Codes to try and channel your ED spending to rural recipients. Consider that R100 of ED spending in a rural community has the potential to impact far more people than the same amount of spending in an urban community. This is because of the high ratios of bread winner to dependents in typical rural communities. • Socio-economic Investment
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Ideas for the Urban Business Public relations value from rural BEE has a high level of credibility because of its inherent challenges, and creative thinking around your business model and strategy can reveal some excellent opportunities to grow your business and benefit rural communities at the same time. The first step lies in understanding your business strategy and seeing where a rural initiative could further your business aims and lead to empowerment with little or no additional expenditure. Take for example a footwear manufacturing company struggling in the city with high levels of competition, sophisticated consumers and high running costs. Sponsorship of a well-planned rural community upliftment project such as an Easter soccer tournament, could: • cost very little – relative to the cost of sponsoring a similar event in the city; • reach a much wider audience – many urban dwellers return to their rural homes over Easter anyway; • expose a large number of people to the brand for the first time, in a setting where there are few other brands competing for their attention; • yield great PR value through press releases and coverage of the event in the urban newspapers. The company could follow this up by building relationships with rural footwear retailers to ensure their products are stocked in anticipation of new orders, and even count some of the cost of the investment in the retailers as Enterprise Development spending (e.g. training, promotional materials, advertising costs). This could be coupled with a bursary scheme (paid for as Socio-economic Investment) that is offered as a prize in a marketing campaign to further extend brand awareness to the local community. Rural empowerment does not therefore have to mean an entirely new BEE strategy, but can be as straight-forward as looking at your current plan and working in a rural impact wherever it makes business sense. Source: The National BEE Handbook, a piece by Michael Stuart.
4. Roleplayers Agricultural Colleges Find details of all Colleges in the Agricultural education and training chapter
Tsolo Agriculture Rural Development Institute (TARDI) Tel/fax: 047 542 0107 Cell: 083 961 3157
Banks See the Banks chapter
Development Bank of South Africa (DBSA) Tel: 011 313 3911 www.dbsa.org Standard Bank Tel: 011 636 6162 www.standardbank.co.za
Companies See the agribusiness chapter
• Agri-Africa Consultants Tel: 021 886 6826 www.agri-africa.co.za “Rural development and food security” • Agri Mega Empowerment Solutions (AgriMES) Tel: 028 424 2890 / 028 425 2524 www.agrimega.co.za • Biogas Power Tel: 086 124 6427 www.biogaspower.co.za • Caryki Consulting Tel: 082 456 0396 / 083 445 2662 Fax: 086 503 6166 • CASIDRA Tel: 021 863 5000 www.casidra.co.za • Den Vet Tel: 033 343 1093 www.denvet.co.za “Information talks and presentations done in rural areas” • Development Services www.devserve.co.za • Rural Integrated Engineering Tel: 012 804 5014 / 082 469 4535
[email protected] • Scientific Roets Tel: 039 727 1515 www.scientificroets.com • South African Institute for Entrepreneurship (SAIE) Tel: 021 447 2023 www.entrepreneurship.co.za • Sustainable Villages Africa Tel: 012 361 1846 www.sva.co.za • Urban-Econ Tel: 031 202 9673 www.urban-econ.com • Womiwu Rural Development Tel: 015 297 2107 www.womiwu.com “Broad-based rural and agricultural development” • Many rural areas have significant, if not an abundance of natural and other resources. The major constraints are the restrictive institutional arrangements and lack of skills that prevent the resources (both natural and other) from being mobilized and used sustainably. • By mobilising resources, creating enterprises and increasing local economic activity the taxation base for municipalities to increase revenue is also increased, helping these institutions to become more sustainable. • The government has, and continues to develop strategies and policies to address rural development. These are generally sound but many fail to impact on the ground. In our opinion it is imperative that rural development is seen as a business, in the sense that the available resources – natural, community and financial – need to be mobilised, co-ordinated and managed. To have longer term impact the intitiative must be sustainable. Sustainability is synonymous with profit, or better still with some regular perceived net benefit. • This mobilisation, co-ordination and management must be at grass roots level ie per village or area, and be the responsibility of a project champion who is tasked with making this happen. Source: notes written to the editor by Womiwu Rural Development. Visit www. womiwu.com or contact Rusty at 015 297 2107.
Economic Agencies See also the Providers of financial services chapter
• AsgiSA Eastern Cape Tel: 043 735 1673 www.asgisa-ec.co.za • Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Tel: 011 269 3000 www. idc.co.za • Invest North West Tel: 014 594 2570 www.inw.org.za • Mpumalanga Agricultural Development Corporation (MADC) Tel: 013 755 6328 www.madc.co.za • Eastern Cape Rural Finance Corporation Tel: 043 604 7000 www. ecrfc.co.za • Ntinga OR Tambo Development Agency Tel: 047 531 0346 www. ntinga.org.za • Khula Enterprise Finance Tel: 012 394 5560 www.khula.org.za. Regional office contacts can be found on the website.
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International Roleplayers Many of these are listed in the Africa and SADC chapters of this section. Here we will mention only eight. • Global Donor Platform for Rural Development – www.donorplatform. org • Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Co-operation (CTA) – www.cta.int. “Sharing knowledge, improving rural livelihoods” • Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) – www.fao.org. Find details on the website about the “RuralInvest” toolkit comprising training courses, manuals and software. • On the FAO website, find out about the SARD initiative (Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development). • The Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship – www. schwabfound.org • United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLGA) – www. uclgafrica.org • www.rural21.com – the “International journal for rural development” • The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) – www. ifad.org, “Enabling poor rural people to overcome poverty”. • Rural Finance Learning Centre – www.ruralfinance.org
National Government Departments Contact details for all government departments can be found at www.info.gov.za
• Department of Rural Development and Land Reform – www. ruraldevelopment.gov.za • Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries – www.daff.gov.za • Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs– www. cogta.gov.za • Department of Social Development – www.welfare.gov.za Rural development is not simply the responsibility of the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform. There is rural transport, rural education, rural health, rural job creation, rural infrastructure, and so on. One hopes that a cluster of government departments rolls up their sleeves to develop the rural areas and bring hope. Imagine if it were led by the economic powerhouse of government: Treasury, Economic Development, and the National Planning Commission! Find “Land Reform’s middle ground”, an article by Dr Ruth Hall on www. mg.co.za, in which she analyses the challenges of rural development and suggests the above.
Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs) The umbrella body for NGOs is the South African NGO Coalition (SANGOCO). Visit www.sangoco.org.za. • ACAT Tel: 033 234 4223 www.acatkzn.co.za • Afesis-corplan Tel: 043 743 3830 www.afesis.org.za • Amangwane King Tel: 011 726 6529 www.firechildren.org. Children of Fire is involved in this rural development initiative near Emmaus (Central Drakensberg area, KwaZulu-Natal). A jam-making cooperative business is being set up in a region suffering from 95% unemployment. The plan includes selling produce to tourists and stores in the region, and so generate revenue and work opportunities. • Association for Rural Advancement (AFRA) Tel: 033 345 7607 www. afra.co.za • Association for Community Rural Advancement (AnCRA) Tel: 053 712 0791 www.ancra.org.za • Biowatch South Africa has rural offices in Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal. Read about their rural work on www.biowatch.org.za • Border Rural Committee Tel: 043 742 0173 www.brc21.co.za • CALUSA Tel: 047 877 0204 www.calusa.org.za • Centani Community District Development Institution (CCDDI) Tel: 047 492 0561 • Centre for Integrated Rural Development (CIRD) operates in Western Cape, Eastern Cape and Northern Cape provinces Tel: 021 949 4290 • Centre for Rural Legal Studies Tel: 021 883 8032 www.crls.org.za • Community Development Resource Association Tel: 021 462 3902 www.cdra.org.za • Ekhozi Rural Development Services Tel: 021 853 2691
[email protected]
• Environmental Monitoring Group Tel: 021 448 2881 www.emg.org.za • Free State Rural Development Association Tel: 051 448 4628
[email protected] • The Growth Foundation Tel: 011 587 4000 www.thegrowthfoundation. org • Indigo Development and Change Tel: 027 218 1148 www.indigodc.org • Insika Rural Development Trust Tel: 035 772 5061 Fax: 035 792 2341 • Khanya-aicdd (African Institute for Community Driven Development) Tel: 011 642 5011 www.khanya-aicdd.org • LIMA Rural Development Foundation Tel: 033 342 9043 www.lima. org.za • Nkuzi Development Association Tel: 012 323 6417 www.nkuzi.org. za Contact details for their branches (Polokwane, Elim, Acornhoek, Modimolle, Makhado and Nylstroom) are available on the website. • Promotion of Rural Livelihoods (RULIV) Tel: 043 704 8800 www.ruliv. org.za • Rural Development Network (RUDNET) Tel: 021 880 0121 www. rudnet.org.za • Rural Education, Awareness and Community Health (REACH) Tel: 021 633 5287 www.reach.org.za • Rural Legal Trust Tel: 011 403 4426 www.rlt.org.za • Social Change Assistance Trust Tel: 021 418 2575 www.scat.org.za • Surplus Peoples Project Tel: 021 448 5605 www.spp.org.za • The Rural Action Committee (TRAC) Tel: 013 755 4324 www.trac.org. za • TechnoServe Tel: 011 482 6005 www.technoserve.org.za For an extensive list of NGOs, visit www.ngopulse.org. Find the rural development pages under the “Other” menu option.
Rural Municipalities and Provincial Government • Local Economic Development (LED) is a constitutional mandate of Local Municipalities. Under the Constitution, local government is tasked with facilitating local economic development, including agricultural development. • The rural municipalities and provincial government are challenged by the National Spatial Development Framework to facilitate development in line with the economic potential of its area of jurisdiction. Furthermore, the financial reality of “non-affordability” of municipal services to meet basic needs - owing to weak local economic bases - emphasizes the need for Local Municipalities to actively pursue their LED mandates. This entails creating an enabling environment, stimulating economic growth, job creation, redistribution of economic opportunities, and also, black economic empowerment. • The resource base of rural municipalities is mostly agriculture driven and in the long-term the capacity and affordability of these municipalities to improve service delivery is tied to the fortunes of the rural sector. Source: “Growing the Rural Economy through supporting Agriculture”, a paper by Dr Nico Meyer
The Auditor-General South Africa (AGSA) is responsible for the auditing of provincial state departments and all municipalities – www.agsa. co.za. Local Government Business Network – visit www.lgbn.co.za or call Tel: 011 021 2768 Rural Doctors Association of Southern Africa – www.rudasa.org South African Local Government Association (SALGA) – www.salga. net • Eastern Cape Tel: 043 7271150 • Free State Tel: 051 447 1960 / 3426 • Gauteng Tel: 011 276 1150 • Limpopo Tel: 015 291 1400 • Mpumalanga Tel: 013 752 2366 • North West Tel: 018 462 5290 • Northern Cape Tel: 053 833 2504/5 • Western Cape Tel: 021 944 2120 • KwaZulu-Natal Tel: 031 761 6300/1
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Links to all municipalities can be found on the website. South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) – www.sassa.gov.za • Eastern Cape Tel: 043 707 6460 • Free State Tel: 051 409 0809/5/6 • Gauteng Tel: 011 241 8353 • Limpopo Tel: 015 291 7400 • Mpumalanga Tel: 013 753 5400 • North West Tel: 014 592 2298 • Northern Cape Tel: 053 802 4900 • Western Cape Tel: 021 469 0200 • KwaZulu-Natal Tel: 033 846 3333
To aid government in its quest to improve the quality of drinking water served in rural communities, the Water Research Commission (WRC) has published a new set of guidelines for small water treatment plant operators. To find out more about On-site Mobile Training of Operators in Rural Water Supplies: An Illustrative Kit, call 012 330 0340 or email
[email protected].
Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) A number of the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) are involved in rural development. These include: • The Local Government SETA. Provincial contact details are available at www.lgseta.co.za. The national office may be contacted at 011 456 8579. • The agricultural SETA www.agriseta.co.za 012 325 1655
Find contact details of their district offices on the website. Over 13 million citizens received social assistance benefits in 2009, and of these beneficiaries nine million are children. SASSA’s mission is to administer quality social security services, cost effectively and timeously using appropriate best practices by: • Developing and implementing policies, programmes and procedures for effective and efficient social grants administration system; • Paying the right grant amount, to the right person at the right time, and at the most convenient place that he/she may choose; • Delivering innovative, cost effective and efficient services to individuals, their families and community groups via multi- and easy access channels using modern technology. Thusong Service Centre – www.thusong.gov.za • Eastern Cape Tel: 043 722 2602 • Free State Tel: 051 448 4504 • Gauteng Tel: 011 834 3560 • Limpopo Tel: 015 291 4689 • Mpumalanga Tel: 013 753 2397 • North West Tel: 018 381 7071 • Northern Cape Tel: 053 832 1378/9 • Western Cape Tel: 021 421 5070 • KwaZulu-Natal Tel: 031 301 6787 Services include facilities (fax, phone), training, small business advice and development and more. A 2014 business plan for the initiative seeks to establish a Thusong service Centre in each of South Africa’s 283 municipalities.
Science Councils of South Africa The Science Councils of South Africa have programmes which target rural areas e.g. the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) has its Urban, Rural and Economic Development Programme. Find their details in the Science and Research chapter.
Find details of accredited AgriSETA training providers in the Agricultural Education & Training chapter
Universities Stellenbosch University Sustainability Institute Tel: 021 881 3196 www.sustainabilityinstitute.net University of Fort Hare Department of Agricultural Economics & Extension Tel: 040 602 2333 University of the Free State Centre for Development Support Tel: 0514012978
Centre for Rural Health Tel: 031 260 1569 www.crh.org.za University of Pretoria Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development: Tel: 012 420 3248 Post Graduate School for Agriculture and Rural Development Tel: 012 420 4833 / 3601
Find details of the “South African Institute for Agricultural Extension” Centre for Sustainable Agriculture and “SADC Centre for Land and Rural Development Related, Regional and Development Tel: 051 401 2163 Policy” in the Emerging Farmer Support and SADC chapters Lengau Agricultural Centre respectively. Tel: 051 443 8859 University of the Western Cape Department of Agricultural Programme for Land and Agrarian Economics Studies (PLAAS) Tel: 051 401 2250 Tel: 021 959 3733 www.plaas.org.za University of KwaZulu-Natal Centre for Rural Development Systems Tel: 033 260 6802
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5. Sustainability A sustainable community ideally does not depend on externalities for its functioning and survival. It would incorporate the following:
It is economically viable / has an economic base / has an economic reason for being (raison d’ etre). Every location / site / social group has something which makes it unique. Its uniqueness becomes its reason for existence, its magnet for attracting investment / for creating a market. New and existing communities should have some primary activity in its economic make-up. This is important for the creation of a diverse local economy. In urban areas, suburbs should be transformed into an economy which is not dependent on the CBD or commercial/industrial areas for survival. Towns should not depend on cities for their survival.
It maintains and fosters diversity. Biological, social and economic. The degradation of natural systems is taboo (over-harvesting, loss of biodiversity, monocultures, etc). Diversity is nature’s design framework.
It does not export waste. Limit the waste flow. Keep the biological and technological waste streams separate and upcycle it (where waste is used as resource for the next step in the community’s metabolism). This approach follows nature’s dictum of waste is food: it eliminates pollution. Create jobs from the waste!
It does not import resources. Resources are seen as: material, energy, labour, knowledge, capital and wisdom. Anything local which can be used as catalyst / multiplier for the local economy should be developed, and regarded as a resource.
It grows social capital. Fosters conditions for society to thrive and enhances its capacity to meet its needs: • Level 1: Natural systems are not damaged. To do so will undermine and limit that community – sooner or later. • Level 2: This relates to conditions at the social system level: a decision made elsewhere might result in people not having access to resources, or to education. Any power that does not recognise interdependence is not sustainable. • Level 3: Successful strategies for social sustainability: participation, transparency, responsibility / accountability, honesty. Local knowledge, wisdom, culture are nurtured, tapped; this is reflected in decisions made at this level. Social and ecological implications are linked.
It governs itself. The smaller and more local the government, the more participation there is – and the more legitimate, accountable and effective it becomes.
It is designed with the intention to facilitate all of the above. Design does not stop at the house, street, landscaping, cadastral subdivisions or planning regulations. It asks questions about what waste is produced, where it goes and how it is managed. It asks questions about how the community is managed and how it earns its keep. It asks questions about how the habitat is enriched by the resident community. In short, the designers (for there are many) must create frameworks which nurture communities and their habitats - not to limit or constrain through regulations, for regulation is a signal of design failure. Adapted from Louw van Biljon’s “Sustainable Development Manifesto”(January 2006). Van Biljon can be contacted at Tel: 058 256 1195 / 082 777 2647. Our thanks to Nelson Mafulo (Department of Rural Development and Land Reform), Rusty Milne (Womiwu Rural Development) and Nico Meyer (DBSA) for feedback on the draft chapter
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2. Members of the Executive Council (MECs)
Introduction Agriculture in the provinces
Province and MEC
Contact details
Western Cape – Mr Gerrit van Tel: 021 483 4700 Rensburg Fax: 021 483 3890 Eastern Cape – Mr Mbulelo Sogoni
Tel: 040 609 3472/1180 Fax: 040 636 3462
1. Overview
Northern Cape – Mr Norman Tel: 053 838 9165 Shushu Fax: 053 832 4328
In terms of the Constitution of South Africa, 1996 (Act 108 of 1996), agricultural support to farmers is vested in the provincial governments, which provide farmers with a range of services. The national government retains the overall regulatory and policy functions and agricultural trade and marketing.
Free State – Ms Motlagomang Qabathe
• Find the links to the Provincial Departments of Agriculture websites at www.daff.gov.za – take the “Strategic Partnerships” menu option. • For a list of provincial extension officers, see the Emerging Farmer Support chapter. • Find also the enormously useful provincial overviews at www.nda. agric.za/docs/ET/aet_strategy05.htm Although these are reports for the AET Strategy (see “Agricultural education and training chapter), they provide their findings within the provincial context. Detail is given on types of vegetation, agricultural activities in the province and much more. • Find the details of provincial farmer unions in the Organised Agriculture chapter. • The National Council of Provinces (NCOP) provides provinces with a forum in which to engage with the national government on matters concerning areas of shared national and provincial legislative powers. The NCOP also oversees the programmes and activities of national government relating to provincial and local government matters. Find more at www.parliament.gov.za.
Mamiki Tel: 051 861 8401 Fax: 051 861 8451
North West – Mr Boitumelo Tel: 018 389 5056 Tshwene Fax: 018 384 2679 Limpopo – Ms Dipuo Letsatsi- Tel: 015 295 7023 Duba Fax: 015 295 7046 Gauteng – Ms Nandi Mayathula- Tel: 011 355 1900 Khoza Fax: 011 333 0620 Mpumalanga Malinga
–
Mr
Meshack Tel: 013 766 6074 Fax: 013 766 8437
KwaZulu-Natal – Ms Lydia Johnson Tel: 031 343 8240 Fax: 033 343 8255 MinMEC is a forum made up from the MECs of agriculture in the nine provinces. It meets four times a year.
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3. Western Cape
The Programme Structured Agricultural Training with its sub programmes:
Department of Agriculture: Western Cape Website: www.elsenburg.com Physical Address Department of Agriculture Muldersvlei Road ELSENBURG 7607 Head of department Ms Joyene Isaacs Tel: 021 808 5004/5 Fax: 021 808 5000 Director Corporate Services Ms R Wentzel Tel: 021 808 5119 Fax: 021 808 5000 Director Technology, Research and Development Dr I Trautmann Tel: 021 808 5011 Fax: 021 808 5000 Chief Director Veterinary Services Dr G Msiza Tel: 021 808 5001 Fax: 021 808 5000 Chief Director Farmer Support and Development Mr D Adolph Tel: 021 808 5013 Fax: 021 808 525
Postal Address Department of Agriculture Private Bag X1 ELSENBURG 7607 Chief Director Structured Agricultural Training Mr M Paulse Tel: 021 808 5018 Fax: 021 808 7703 Chief Financial officer Mr F Huysamer Tel: 021 808 5007 Fax: 021 808 5000 Director Sustainable Resource Management Mr A Roux Tel: 021 808 5009 Fax: 021 808 5000 Director Agricultural Economics Ms B Matoti Tel: 021 808 5213 Fax: 021 808 5000
The services rendered by this Department are aimed towards realising the vision of Global success, Competitive, Inclusive, Socially responsible and in balance with Nature. The services are divided into 6 programmes, supported by Administration (Corporate and Financial services).
• Higher Education • Further Education & Training District Managers Cape Metropole
Tel: 021 948 6966
Central Karoo
Tel: 023 414 2126
Eden
Tel: 044 803 3710 /31
West Coast
Tel: 022 433 2330
Overberg
Tel: 028 424 1439
Boland
Tel: 021 883 2560
Information / Communication Services Danie Niemand (acting) Tel: 021 808 7602 / 082 934 5300 Fax: 021 808 5251
[email protected] Free publications • AgriPROBE. Quarterly news and research magazine. Subscriptions: Magriet de Lange Tel: 021 808 7613 • Information sheets. Technical information sheets in Afrikaans, English & Xhosa – 100 subjects www.elsenburg.com Read about Radio Elsenburg in the Agricultural Media chapter.
4. Eastern Cape www.ecprov.gov.za – the website of the Eastern Cape Provincial Government will give you an overview of this province. You will find Agriculture under “Departments”. Selecting this menu option will take you to www.agr.ecprov. gov.za, website of the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture.
The Programme Veterinary Services with its sub programmes: • Veterinary Lab Services • Animal Health • Veterinary Public Health & Export Control The Programme Farmer Support and Development with its sub programmes: • • • •
Farmer Settlement Food Security Farmer Support Services Farm Worker Development
The Programme Technology, Research and Development Services with its sub programmes: • Research: plant production, animal production, resource utilisation • Infrastructure Support Services The Programme Sustainable Resource Management with its sub programmes: • Agricultural Engineering Services • LandCare The Programme Agricultural Economics with its sub programmes: • Micro-economics • Marketing • Macro-economics • Statistics
Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (ECDARD) Tel: 040 609 3474 Fax: 040 636 3555 Private Bag X0040, Bisho, 5608 Head of Department Mr Glen Thomas Tel: 040 609 3471/91 Fax: 040 635 0604 A comprehensive list of contact details is available on the website The districts • Alfred Nzo – 039 727 4453 www.andm.gov.za • Amathole – 043 701 4000 www.amathole.gov.za • Buffalo City – 043 705 2000. An extensive list of contacts is offered on www.buffalocity.gov.za for this municipality of East London, King William’s Town and Bhisho. • Cacadu – 041 402 6201. A general list of contacts can be found at www.cacadu.co.za • Chris Hani – 045 808 4600 www.chrishanidm.gov.za • Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality – 041 506 5555 www. nelsonmandelabay.gov.za • OR Tambo – 047 531 0258 www.ortambodm.org.za • Ukhahlamba – 051 611 0071 www.ukhahlamba.gov.za
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5. Mpumalamga
7. KwaZulu-Natal
Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Land Administration (ARDLA)
KZN Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs & Rural Development
Tel: 013 766 6067/8 Fax: 013 766 8295 www.mpu.agric.za Postal Address: Private Bag X 11219, Nelspruit, 1200
Tel: 033 355 9100 Fax: 033 355 9122 Website: http://agriculture.kzntl.gov.za Private Bag X9050, Pietermaritzburg 3200
• Witbank Tel: 013 690 1269 Fax: 086 695 3928 • Ermelo Tel: 017 819 1155 Fax: 017 819 2828 • The office at Drumrock is moving. Phone 084 513 5612/3 to update contact details.
6. Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD) Tel: 011 355 1900 Fax: 011 355 1000 Postal: PO Box 8769, Johannesburg, 2000 Website: www.gdard.gpg.gov.za Agriculture Branch – 011 355 1968 Technology Development and Support – 011 355 1374 Agricultural Economics and Marketing – 011 355 1906 Farmer Support Services – 011 355 1447 • Farmer Settlement – 011 355 1449 • Household Food Security – 011 355 1453 • Integrated Food Security – 011 355 1720 / 1265
Head of Department Dr Sizwe Mkhize Tel: 033 355 9690
[email protected] Southern Region – Tel: 033 343 8300 Northern Region – Tel: 035 780 6700 A full list of contact details for all districts can be found on the website.
Department of Economic Development and Tourism Tel: 031 310 5300 Fax: 031 310 5423 www.kznded.gov.za The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Department of Economic Development (DED) is continuously developing strategies to support the growth of the agribusiness and agri-processing sector. This involves identifying and packaging agri-business and agri-processing opportunities.
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8. Northern Cape
10. North West
Department of Agriculture and Land Reform (DALA) Tel: 053 838 9100 (General Switchboard) Fax: 053 832 4328
[email protected] Website: www.agrinc.gov.za Head office 162 George Street Kimberley
Private Bag X5018 Kimberley 8300
Head of the Department: Mr MVD Mothibi
[email protected] Tel: 053 838 9118 Fax: 053 831 3635
Invest North West, the province’s trade and investment promotion agency has identified seven agricultural clusters as key areas to drive the province’s economy and develop existing capacity. These clusters, offering potential investors viable business opportunities include: Renewable energy; essential oil production; goat meat processing; beef beneficiation; edible oils; indigenous medicinal plants and aquaculture. Other opportunities include fruit and vegetable canning and leather production. For additional information on any of these agricultural initiatives contact Invest North West: call 014 594 2570 or visit www.inw.org.za
North West Department of Agriculture, Conservation And Environment and Rural Development (DACERD)
The municipal districts are Frances Baard, Siyanda, Pixley-Ka-Seme, Namakwa and Kgalagadi. Find contact details on the advert opposite. Find the Telephone Directory on the website.
9. Free State Free State Department of Agriculture Tel: 051 506 1400 Fax: 051 448 6138 Website: http://fsagric.fs.gov.za
Tel: 018 389 5111 www.nwpg.gov.za/Agriculture Physical Address Agricentre Building, Corner Dr James Moroka Drive and Stadium Road (Opposite Convention Centre), Mafikeng
Postal Address Private Bag X2039 Mmabatho 2735
Head Of The Department Tel: 018 389 5146 Fax: 018 389 5722 A list of contact details can be found in the “Directory of Services” on the website.
Physical Address ABSA Building C/O Aliwal and Maitland Streets Bloemfontein
Postal Address Private Bag X02 Bloemfontein 9300
Head of Department: Tel: 051 506 1614 Fax: 051 430 1542
Agricultural Support Services Tel: 051 506 1622 Fax: 051 447 1659
11. Limpopo Limpopo Province Department of Agriculture
District Implementation Tel: 051 506 1619 Fax: 051 447 1659
Physical Address: 67 Biccard Street Polokwane 0700
District Directors Xhariep District – 051 713 0480 Fezile Dabe – 016 976 2009 Motheo – 051 875 1161 Lejweleputsa – 057 398 1664 Thabo Mofutsanyane – 058 714 1430/0 Find the “District Profiles” on the website The “Services” menu option will give you general and/or contact information for: • • • •
Agricultural economics Extension and development Research Soil Conservation and Landcare
Tel: 015 294 3000 Fax: 015 294 4504 Website: www.lda.gov.za
• Geographical Information Service (find overviews of weather, veld types, soil depth etc) • Veterinary Services
Postal Address: Private Bag X9487 Polokwane 0700
Head of Department Prof Azwihangwisi Edward Nesamvuni Tel: 015 294 3000 / 3533 Fax: 015 294 4512 Districts • • • • • •
Bohlabela – 013 773 0032 Capricorn – 015 632 6652 Mopani – 015 812 3210 Sekhukhune – 015 632 4147 Waterberg – 014 717 2523 Vhembe – 015 963 1653
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Introduction The urban question See also the Human Settlements and Food Security chapters
1. Overview “At present we rely on a food delivery chain that is unsustainable at all points but is so remote from our awareness that we take it for granted and seldom question its ethics or environmental impact. How will cities feed themselves as Climate Change and Peak Oil begin to impact on our lives?” Prof Michael Rudolph
The rapid urbanisation that is taking place goes together with a rapid increase in urban poverty and urban food insecurity. By 2020 the developing countries of Africa, Asia, and Latin America will be home to some 75% of all urban dwellers, and to eight of the anticipated nine mega-cities with populations in excess of 20 million. It is expected that by 2020, 85% of the poor in Latin America, and about 40-45% of the poor in Africa and Asia will be concentrated in towns and cities. Most cities in developing countries have great difficulties to cope with this development and are unable to create sufficient formal employment opportunities for the poor. They also have increasing problems with the disposal of urban wastes and waste water and maintaining air and river water quality. Urban agriculture provides a complementary strategy. Next to food security, urban agriculture contributes to local economic development, poverty alleviation and social inclusion of the urban poor and women in particular, as well as to the greening of the city and the productive reuse of urban wastes. The importance of urban agriculture is increasingly being recognised by international organisations like UNCED (Agenda 21), UNCHS (Habitat), FAO (World Food and Agriculture Organisation), and CGIAR (international agricultural research centres). Source: adapted from notes on the RUAF Foundation website, www.ruaf.org
2. Urban agriculture Urban agriculture can be defined shortly as the growing of plants and the raising of animals within and around cities. The most striking feature of urban agriculture, which distinguishes it from rural agriculture, is that it is integrated into the urban economic and ecological system. Such linkages include the use of urban residents as labourers, use of typical urban resources (like organic waste as compost and urban wastewater for irrigation), direct links with urban consumers, direct impacts on urban ecology (positive and negative), being part of the urban food system, competing for land with other urban functions, being influenced by urban policies and plans, etc.
• Urban agriculture may take place in locations inside the cities (intraurban) or in the peri-urban areas. The activities may take place on the homestead (on-plot) or on land away from the residence (off-plot), on private land (owned, leased) or on public land (parks, conservation areas, along roads, streams and railways), or semi-public land (schoolyards, grounds of schools and hospitals). • Urban agriculture includes food products, from different types of crops (grains, root crops, vegetables, mushrooms, fruits) and animals (poultry, rabbits, goats, sheep, cattle, pigs, guinea pigs, fish, etc.) as well as non-food products (like aromatic and medicinal herbs, ornamental plants, tree products, etc.). or combinations of these. Often the more perishable and relatively high-valued vegetables and animal products and by-products are favoured. • In most cities in developing countries, an important part of urban agricultural production is for self-consumption, with surpluses being traded. However, the importance of the market-oriented urban agriculture, both in volume and economic value, should not be underestimated (as will be shown later). Products are sold at the farm gate, by cart in the same or other neighbourhoods, in local shops, on local (farmers) markets or to intermediaries and supermarkets. Mainly fresh products are sold, but part of it is processed for own use, cooked and sold on the streets, or processed and packaged for sale to one of the outlets mentioned above. Urban agriculture is an integral part of the urban system. Source: adapted from notes on the RUAF Foundation website, www.ruaf.org
3. Publications and websites • Guidelines for Urban and peri-urban animal agriculture, compiled by the Directorate Animal and Aquaculture Production. Call 012 319 7511 • Standard Bank’s AgriReviews frequently topics related to urban agriculture. One such article is referred to under the opening heading. Another article can be found in the 1st quarter of 2008, entitled “Urbanisation”. Find these at www.standardbank.co.za • www.verticalfarm.com – a website used cited as a source in the earlier AgriReview article. It contains concepts, presentations and features. • www.ruaf.org – Resource Centre on Urban Agriculture and Forestry. Find the publications, videos and other resources. • www.idrc.ca/cfp/index_e.html – The site of Cities Feeding People, the urban agriculture programme of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC). • Find the different urban option at www.gdrc.org, website of the Global Development Research Center • www.cityfarmer.org – City Farmer is a non-profit society promoting urban food production and environmental conservation from a small office in downtown Vancouver, British Columbia. • www.etcint.org – ETC International Group partners with role-players in 75 countries on development programmes • www.etc-urbanagriculture.org – ETC Urban Agriculture is an advisory group and resource centre in urban agriculture and food security. The “recent projects” lists work done in Turkey, Canada, South East Asia and Sub Saharan Africa. • www.urbanfarming.org – a North American website The chapter also serves as a corollary of the Importance of Rural Development chapter. The greater the development in the rural areas (in line with the Integrated and Sustainable Rural Development Strategy – ISRDS), the less will be the reason for the rapid urban migration which places such strain on available resources in the urban centres, leading to declining living conditions there. Indeed, it is significant that the government’s Urban Renewal Programme (URP) and Sustainable Rural Development Programme (ISRDP) share the same website – http://isrdp. dplg.gov.za
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4. Roleplayers ABALIMI BEZEKHAYA (“Planters of the Home”) Tel: 021 371 1653
[email protected] www.abalimi.org.za
equipment (e.g. tractor at the Atlantis centre). The contact person, based at the Hartebeeskraal Community Centre, Atlantis, is Karel Abels. He can be reached at 021 572 1246 and at Organic micro-farming and
[email protected] gardening in the townships of Cape Town, the “first city in Africa to have City of Johannesburg Metro an approved Urban Agriculture Municipality policy as of 2007”. ABALIMI Tel: 011 375 5555 directly interfaces with between www.joburg.org.za 50-200 community projects every year, and up to 3000 micro-farmers City of Tshwane Metro and gardeners every year. Municipality Tel: 012 358 1373 Afesis-corplan
[email protected] Tel: 043 743 3830 www.tshwane.gov.za www.afesis.org.za Department of Agriculture, Afristar Foundation Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Tel: 011 706 5614 Directorate: Food Security
[email protected] Tel: 012 319 6736 www.afristarfoundation.org
[email protected] A Permaculture NGO Creating sustainable solutions for urban development, providing training and skills in alternative energy, appropriate technology, food security, primary and preventative health care using indigenous plants and heirloom seeds for seed sovereignty.
Department of Health (DoH) Community Based Nutrition Programme Tel: 012 312 0071 www.doh.gov.za
Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality Moses Gafane Tel: 011 861 8841 AgriPlanner – see “South African
[email protected] Institute for Entrepreneurship” later in this list Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality is set to double the Calabash Trust number of food garden projects Tel: 041 585 9255 set up in the area to respond to the www.calabashtrust.co.za challenge of high food prices and poverty. City of Cape Town Directorate for Economic and Ethekwini Metropolitan Human Development Municipality Urban Agriculture Unit Ms Akhona Ngcobo Tel: 021 550 1201 Tel: 031 311 6278
[email protected] www.dipa.co.za/agribusiness The unit is based at the municipal building in Pienaar Road, Milnerton. The city’s Urban Agricultural Policy (a pdf document) can be found on its website – www.capetown. gov.za. For updates on the Urban Farmers’ Association, contact Stanley Visser. There are currently two urban agriculture centres in the city – one in Atlantis and one in Phillipi. They have been established by the Provincial Department of Agriculture and supported by the City of Cape Town in terms of providing storage space and
Food and Trees for Africa (FTFA) Tel: 011 784 6399 www.trees.org.za Food Gardens Foundation Tel: 011 880 5956/7
[email protected] www.foodgardensfoundation.org. za Khula Enterprise Finance Tel: 012 394 5560 www.khula.org.za Regional office contacts can be found on the website.
Planner Bee Plant Care Tel: 011 888 4215 / 083 255 5828 www.fertilis.co.za FERTILIS earthworm castings fertiliser (REG. NO B3664 Act 36/1947) is certified by the Organic Food Federation UK: organic certification no: 00371/01/00. RUAF Foundation Tel: +31 33 432 6055
[email protected] www.ruaf.org Resource Centres on agriculture and food security
Sustainable Villages Africa (SVA) Tel: 012 361 1846 / 072 510 0187
[email protected] www.sva.co.za UKUVUNA (Urban farming project cc) Tel: 011 224 0098/ 083 665 3356
[email protected] www.urbanfarming.co.za
Ukuvuna Permaculture is an independent private company that focuses on the development of practical skills. Its Permaculture urban training centre is well established.
Siyakhana Food Garden Project c.o. Health Promotion Unit School of Public Health Wits Medical School Tel: 011 717 2241 http://siyakhana.org
[email protected] The main aim of the project is to establish a site for an urban agriculture initiative that showcases a food garden system for food production, education, research, and empowerment of the community, particularly women, through training, employment and income-generating opportunities. Siyakhana conducts inter-andmultidisciplinary research and provides design, training and implementation services to private individuals and to organisations.
University of Cape Town African Centre for Cities www.acc.uct.ac.za University of the Free State Department of Agricultural Economics Tel: 051 401 2250
[email protected] Centre for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Tel: 051 401 2163
[email protected] Lengau Agricultural centre Tel: 051 443 8859
[email protected] University of KwaZulu-Natal Mike Underwood Tel: 033 260 6088
University of South Africa (UNISA) Siyakhana enjoys strong links Victor Mmbengwa with local, provincial and national Tel: 011 471 2566 government initiatives and has
[email protected] recently been endorsed by the Gauteng Department for URBAN FARMER Agriculture, Conservation and Working in collaboration with Environment. Organic Food Gardens Tel/fax: 022 448 1106 Its primary focus is to demonstrate Lisa Perold – 082 842 1579 the close link between urban
[email protected] permaculture, food and health promotion. Water Research Commission Tel: 012 330 0340 South African Institute for www.wrc.org.za Entrepreneurship (SAIE) Tel: 021 447 2023
[email protected] www.entrepreneurship.co.za The SAIE develops innovative materials that utilise original, creative methodologies and trains educators, trainers and community-based organisations to convey business skills, uncover entrepreneurship qualities and ensure sustainable economic development and wealth creation.
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Biosecurity has three major components: Isolation, Traffic Control, Sanitation.
National issues Biosecurity 1. Overview • ‘Biosecurity’ is a relatively new word, derived from ‘biological security’. • Biosecurity covers the introduction of animal pests and diseases, zoonoses, plant pests, the introduction and release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and their products, and the introduction and management of invasive alien species and genotypes. • Biosecurity is a strategic and integrated approach that encompasses the policy and regulatory frameworks (including instruments and activities) that analyse and manage risks in the sectors of food safety, animal life and health, and plant life and health, including associated environmental risk. • The information in this chapter is weighted on the part of livestock. The reader is asked to also consult other, related chapters of relevance. These include: Invasive Alien Species, Biodiversity, Biocontrol, Plant Breeding and Biotechnology, as well as the obvious Livestock chapters like Animal Health. • A farmer that tries to avoid essential preventative treatment and spending is acting unwisely: animal diseases are detrimental to the economy of the country, to say nothing of human and animal health. Source: www.fao.org/biosecurity, www.arc.govt.nz and Peter Oberem
2. Biosecurity and the livestock farmer For detailed and specific information about applying biosecurity principles to your operation, consult your veterinarian or the relevant commodity/trade association e.g. South African Pork Producers Organisation (SAPPO) The goal of biosecurity is to stop transmission of disease causing agents by preventing, minimising or controlling cross-contamination of body fluids (feces, urine, saliva, etc.) between animals, animals to feed and animals to equipment that may directly or indirectly contact animals. Biosecurity management practices are designed to prevent the spread of disease by minimizing the movement of biologic organisms and their vectors (viruses, bacteria, rodents, flies, etc.) onto and within your operation. Biosecurity can be very difficult to maintain because the interrelationships between management, biologic organisms and biosecurity are very complex. While developing and maintaining biosecurity is difficult, it is the cheapest, most effective means of disease control available, and no disease prevention program will work without it. Infectious diseases can be spread between operations by: • the introduction of diseased cattle or healthy cattle incubating disease; • introduction of healthy cattle who have recovered from disease but are now carriers; • vehicles, equipment, clothing and shoes of visitors or employees who move between herds; • contact with inanimate objects that are contaminated with disease organisms; • carcasses of dead cattle that have not been disposed of properly; • feedstuffs, especially high risk feedstuff which could be contaminated with feces; • impure water (surface drainage water, etc.); • manure handling and aerosolized manure and dust; • nonlivestock (horses, dogs, cats, wildlife, rodents, birds and insects).
• Isolation. The most important step in disease control is to minimise commingling and movement of cattle. • Traffic control includes traffic onto your operation and traffic patterns within your operation. It is important to understand traffic includes more than vehicles. All animals and people must be considered. Animals other than cattle include dogs, cats, horses, wildlife, rodents and birds. • Sanitation addresses the disinfection of materials, people and equipment entering the operation and the cleanliness of the people and equipment on the operation. Source: adapted from Biosecurity Bascics for Cattle Operations and Good Management Practices (GMP) for Controlling Infectious Diseases, published by Institute of Agricultural and Natural Resources, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension
Biosecurity systems on farms are to a large extent the responsibility of the individual producers and are designed to protect the producer’s own interests. Implementation of a biosecurity plan requires an understanding of the “epidemiological” principles of disease including the host species, agent (disease) and environmental factors which must be managed using objective cost effective decision making processes. For a stock farmer, the four legs of a Biosecurity Programme are: • A structured and effective immunisation programme should be in place and adhered to. • Minimise contacts with possible infectious agents or animals. Animals introduced into a herd should be certified disease and parasite free. • Eliminate sources of infection. • Control the movement of people amongst farms and farm animals.
3. Roleplayers Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Find notes on all of the directorates at www.daff.gov.za (take the “Divisions” menu option)
Directorate: Plant Health Tel: 012 319 6505/39
[email protected] This directorate: • develops policies, promulgates legislation, sets norms and standards and guidelines to manage plant health risks; • ensures compliance with international plant health obligations and responsibilities, thereby creating an environment for safe imports and exports; • manages all risks associated with plants and plant products to protect South African agriculture from quarantine and regulated pests. The Plant Health menu option at www.daff.gov.za provides information on the Agricultural Pests Act, 1983 (Act No 36 of 1983) and other regulations which are relevant to this chapter. Find the presentation “Phytosanitary requirements for imports and exports of plants, plant products and other regulated articles”, given by this Marianna Theyse of this directorate, at www.agbiz.co.za Directorate: Agricultural Product Inspection Serves (APIS) Tel: 012 319 6100
[email protected] This directorate: conducts agricultural product inspections and audit services at official ports of entry, and plant and animal quarantine as well as diagnostic services; contributes to safe food and prevents animal and plant pests and diseases from entering the country; secures and maintains national, regional and international markets for agricultural products.
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Directorate: Veterinary Services Tel: 012 319 7456
[email protected] This directorate: manages animal health through the setting and analysis of essential international and national standards; controls and certifies the health status of animals/animal products for import/export, including the provision of quarantine facilities; negotiates protocols on the import and export of animal/animal products. Provincial contacts are listed in the Animal Health chapter. Find the “Contacts” menu option at www.daff.gov.za. Profiles, documents (e.g. for export / import), press releases and more can be found at the “Food and Veterinary Services” pages.
Animal Health Act, 2002 (Act No.7 Of 2002) This Act replaced the Animal Disease Act (35 of 1984). Objectives This Act provides for measures to promote animal health and to control animal diseases. It assigns executive authority with regard to certain provisions of this Act to provinces. It regulates the importation and exportation of animals and things and establishes animal health schemes. Main provisions • Control measures regarding all animal diseases proclaimed under the Act. • Owners of animals must at all times prevent the infection of his or her animals with any animal disease or parasite, the spreading of the disease or parasite and arrange for the eradication thereof. • If it has become clear or reasonably suspected that animals have become infected with a controlled animal disease, like rabies or foot and mouth, immediately report of such infection must be given to the nearest State Veterinarian. • No person may import or export any animal or animal product into or from the Republic unless the National Executive Officer has issued an import or export permit. • If owners of animals finds amongst their animals, any animal, which has strayed or has been unlawfully removed or strayed from outside the Republic of South Africa, the animal must immediately be isolated, detained and the nearest State Veterinarian informed, pending further instructions. • In case of any doubt contact the nearest State veterinarian (details in the Animal Health chapter) or in cases of extreme urgency any veterinarian or Police station.
Directorate: Biosafety Tel: 012 319 6199 Directorate: Food Safety and Quality Assurance Tel: 012 319 7306
National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) Tel: 012 341 1115 www.namc.co.za
The statutory levies for the different sectors address, amongst Directorate: Agricultural Disaster other issues, the health and hygiene Management systems in those sectors. Tel: 012 319 7955
Others Agri Inspec Tel: 012 843 5630 / 082 879 3955 www.agriinspec.co.za Akshan Consulting Tel: 011 803 7139 / 084 777 4472 www.ashkan.co.za Den Vet Tel: 033 343 1093 www.denvet.co.za
South African Animal Health Association (SAAHA) Tel: 011 805 2000 www.saaha.co.za South African National Equestrian Federation (SANEF) Tel: 011 468 3236/8
South African Ostrich Business Chamber (SAOBC) These distributors of veterinary Tel: 044 272 3336 and associated services also give www.ostrichsa.co.za information talks and presentations in rural areas. They advise farmers, South African Pork Producers agricultural co-ops etc. Organisation (SAPPO) Tel: 012 361 3920 The Livestock Health and www.sapork.com Production Group Tel: 012 346 1590 Southern African Poultry Association (SAPA) National Council of SPCAs Tel: 011 795 2051 Farm Animal Unit www.sapoultry.co.za Tel: 011 907 3590/1/2 South African Veterinary Onderstepoort Biological Association Products Tel: 012 346 1150 Tel: 012 522 1500 www.sava.co.za Fax: 012 522 1591 www.OBPvaccines.co.za South African Veterinary Council Red Meat Industry Forum Tel: 012 342 1612 Tel: 012 667 1189
[email protected] Veterinary House Hospital www.redmeatsa.co.za Tel: 033 342 4698
The Act is available on www.polity.org.za Animal health companies manufacture vaccines and promotes biosecurity within the continent. Find their details in the Animal Health chapter.
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4. Training and research Afrivet Training Services Dr Danie Odendaal Tel: 082 454 0532
[email protected] www.afrivet.co.za
Three different institutions are located at Onderstepoort, and function separately:
ARC – Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute (OVI) Afrivet Training Services provides Tel: 012 529 8000 a structured approach to primary www.arc.agric.za animal health care and thus to Onderstepoort Biological biosecurity. Products The practical course content is Tel: 012 522 1500 designed for implementation at www.obpvaccines.co.za farm level, and includes courses in early disease identification and University of Pretoria Faculty of Veterinary Science treatment, and in on-going disease Tel: 012 529 8000 prevention. www.up.ac.za For specific information pertaining to disease control, please contact the Central Reference Laboratory at 012 529 8000 or write to Private Bag X04, ONDERSTEPOORT, 0110.
5. Websites and publications • See the websites of associations involved e.g. see the Biosecurity Plan on the SAPPO website; find the Biosecurity Guidelines for the Ostrich Industry document at www.ostrichsa.co.za; the Disease Management option at www.sapoultry.co.za etc. • Find the links on the Food and Veterinary Services pages at www.daff. gov.za (take the Divisions option). Under “Epidemiology” find options like include Disease Maps, Disease Status, Disease Database, Disease Reporting Forms etc. • Find details of the numerous Info Paks available from DAFF in the Animal Health chapter. These can be viewed under the “Publications” option at www.daff.gov.za, or obtained from either the Resource Centre (012 319 7141) or from the Supply Shop at the ARC Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute. Tel: 012 529 9446. Examples of these publications are “Animal Health: Common and Important Diseases in Cattle”, “Poultry: Disease prevention in chickens” etc. • See also the other publications in the Animal Health chapter. • Find the Comprehensive Atlas at www.agis.agric.za, activate the control zones under Risks and Hazards and find the Animal Disease Control Zones. • Find information on Avian Flu on the website of Birdlife International (www.birdlife.org), and the websites of associations mentioned in the Farming and Birds chapter. • Technically the Swine Flu outbreak of 2009 was a human flu and using the term “Swine Flu” is erroneous. Read more at www.swineflusa.co.za • Find notes relevant to European Union biosecurity at http://ec.europa. eu/food/animal/bips/index_en.htm • Read about African horsesickness (AHS) in the equine chapter. • International Plant Protection Convention – www.ippc.int • www.au-appo.org – Inter-African Phytosanitary Council
6. Ticks and biosecurity Some readers may remember the days when livestock movements were strictly controlled and permits were required to transport livestock from one district to another. Much of the legislation behind this came from the late decades of the 19th century where diseases were poorly understood but it was noticed that dipping and movement controls helped to control tick born diseases such as redwater. The serious losses experienced by farmers in those days prompted what was an effective biosecurity system but which also created some controversy. Ticks and tick control will provoke heated debates even today with differing opinions on the proper levels of aggression in tick control; however, even with modern drugs and dips, ticks and the diseases they transmit remain
a problem. The responsibility falls on all commercial farmers to protect their own interests through tick control at a level with which they and their advisers are comfortable. Ticks belong to reasonably distinctive “name” groups e.g. Blue tick, red legged tick, bont tick and so on but in reality, to the uninitiated, the engorged or fully fed adults of different species, which are most easily seen, are difficult to differentiate. Knowledge of the appearance distribution and life cycles of these parasites goes a long way toward identifying individual ticks and helping one select a control measure that will work in a particular circumstance. All tick’s lifecycles go through egg, larval, nymphal, and adult stages and depending on the number of hosts supplying feeds to the parasites. They can be grouped into three distinct categories namely single host, two host and three host ticks. The life cycle may be repeated every 21 to 35 days as in the single host blue tick while other species may only complete 2 or 3 life cycles per year. It is this rapid life cycle turnover of the blue tick that enables them to develop resistance to many of the available chemicals. There are essentially 5 groups of chemicals for tick control namely Pyrethroids, Amidines or formadines, organophosphates, growth regulators and Macrocytic lactones which do not hold registration for all the tick species. In a study of ticks and tick-borne pathogens from wildlife in the Free State Province published in 2009 Tonetti N et al reported that Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, the known vector of Babesia bovis (asiatic redwater) in South Africa, was found for the first time in the Free State Province. The significance of this is ominous. Livestock producers should be alert to the dangers of introducing resistant ticks and disease into their herds regardless of their geographical whereabouts and should plan and implement biosecurity principles without delay. For more information, contact Dr Rick Mapham of Veterinary House Hospital. Call 033 342 4698 or write to
[email protected].
7. Zoonoses: diseases of livestock that can affect humans The word “zoonosis” has its origins in the Greek zoon, meaning animal, and nosos meaning disease. In 1959, the World Health Organisation Expert Committee on Zoonoses, defined zoonoses as “those diseases and infections that are naturally transmitted between vertebrate animals and man”. Zoonotic diseases are an occupational hazard for all those who work with livestock, including farmers and their workers, veterinary staff, those in the abattoir and dairy industries and, ultimately, the consumers of animal products like meat, dairy products and eggs. Preventing the transfer of zoonotic diseases from animals to humans rests on three pillars. The first of these is keeping animals healthy through good management, vaccinations and parasite control. The second pillar is personal hygiene and attention to healthy working conditions in the livestock industry – particularly details like the provision of good ventilation and accessible ablution blocks. The third pillar is food hygiene, maintaining a cold chain and the inspection and quality control of animal products from the farm to the table. If these three pillars are kept in place, the chance or risk of catching any disease from an animal is very low – you are much more likely to catch diseases from other people! Prevention is better than cure; however, if you suspect you have a zoonotic disease, it is advisable to consult a medical practitioner as soon as possible. Further details on the symptoms and treatment of zoonotic diseases are obtainable on the World Health Organisation (www.who.int) and the Contagious Diseases Centre (CDC) websites. The table following summarises the most important zoonotic diseases of livestock and gives some idea of how to prevent them being transmitted.
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Disease
How it is transmitted
Symptoms in humans
Prevention
Disease
How it is transmitted
Symptoms in humans
Prevention
Anthrax
Contact with blood, skins or meat of diseased cattle, sheep, goats and pigs.
Skin, lung and intestinal forms; may be fatal if untreated.
Vaccinate cattle every year. Notify state vet if there are sudden deaths in livestock. Do not slaughter and eat sick animals.
Bacterial wound infections
Cuts and wounds that are exposed to animal manure, pus and would infections of animals
Abscesses, gangrene and “blood poisoning”
Wash and disinfect all wounds immediately using running water. Cover wounds if working with animals, meat or milk.
Avian Influenza
Contact with diseased birds infected with the virulent strain.
Influenzalike symptoms; often fatal in people.
Do not handle dead birds of any species without gloves, face-masks and protective clothing.
Bubonic plague
Bites by rat fleas “Bubon” forms in inguinal lymphnode, fatal pneumonia.
Botulism
Consumption of meat or other foods contaminated with the spores or toxins of Clostridium botulinum.
Flaccid paralysis of muscles; it progresses until the patient cannot sit or stand, eventually unable to breathe.
Vaccinate cattle. Food hygiene and cooking at high temperatures.
Bovine brucellosis
Inhalation of or contact with blood or birth fluids of infected cattle. Drinking unpasteurised milk.
Acute symptoms look like malaria or influenza; Chronic intermittent fever, joint problems.
Vaccination of heifers, regular testing of cattle herd. Hygienic handling of aborted material or afterbirths. Pasteurise milk.
Inhalation of droplets from coughing cows; drinking unpasteurised milk.
Nodules on the skin and in the lymphnodes; chronic weight loss, severe cough with bloody phlegm.
Workers in dairies must be checked regularly for TB. Dairy cattle must be tested regularly for TB. Pasteurise milk.
Consumption of brain, lymphnodes or spinal tissue of affected cattle
Chronic nervous symptoms that become worse; always fatal as it is incurable.
Prevent the disease coming into South Africa. Test cattle that die after showing nervous symptoms.
Bovine tuberculosis and human tuberculosis
BSE
Rat control. Control fleas on animals – including goats, dogs and cats.
Colibaccilosis Consumption of food, water or other material containing the organism Escherichia coli
Severe acute gastroenteritis. If caused by Ecoli serotype 0157, severe bloody gastroenteritis and organ failure.
Food hygiene. Clean drinking water (prevent it being polluted by human and animal excreta). Wash hands after handling animals and before eating.
Cryptosporidiosis
Consumption of food, water or other material containing the organism Cryptosporidium
Severe chronic diarrhoea, difficult to treat.
Prevent water being contaminated with human or animal excreta. Wash hands after handling animals and before eating.
Congo Fever
Contact with the blood of infected animals or bites by the tick Hyalomma spp., or infected people
Muscle pains, fever, severe haemorrhage under the skin and internally. Highly fatal.
Do not crush ticks with your fingernails. Use tick repellents when working in areas with high tick levels.
Pseudo Cowpox (Bovine Orf)
Contact with in- Red inflamed fective nodules nodule on the on cow teats. hands.
Hygiene during milking. Prevent transmission between cows.
Neuro-cysticercosis
Consumption of the eggs of the pig tapeworm Taenia solium.
Personal hygiene – wash your hands well and scrub your nails before eating.
Cysts on the brain can lead to epilepsy and madness in people.
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Disease
How it is transmitted
Symptoms in humans
Prevention
Diamond skin disease (Erysipelas of pigs)
Contact with the skin, meat or blood of infected or carrier pigs.
Large painful Vaccinate pigs nodule on the against Erisipelas. hands. Can also cause vegetative endocarditis (growths on the heart valves).
Hydatid disease
Consumption or ingestion of the eggs of the tapeworm Echinococcus.
Large cysts on the brain, lungs or in the liver of people.
Do not feed raw meat, especially cysts from sheep carcasses, to dogs.
Leptospirosis Contact with pigs or cattle infected with the disease. Contact with infected water.
Kidney failure, jaundice and liver failure; responds well to antibiotic treatment.
Control rats (they carry the disease). Test for the disease in livestock if there are abortions.
Orf
Contact with sheep or goats infected with orf.
Contagious ecthyma. Red swollen areas of skin of hands or face.
Wash hands well and do not touch your face while working with sheep or goats.
Q-fever
Inhaling dust in the kraals, contact with aborted material from cattle, sheep and goats; drinking unpasteurised milk.
Swollen lymphnodes and interstitial pneumonia.
Wear masks if working in dusty kraals; protective clothing when working with aborted foetus and uterine fluids. Pasteurise milk.
Salmonellosis Consumption of food, water or other material containing the organism Salmonella; contact with animals infected with Salmonella.
Severe gastroenteritis which can be fatal in the very young and the elderly. Sometimes septicaemia and organ failure.
Food hygiene. Prevent contamination of food with animal faeces. Remember personal hygiene and wear protective clothing if working with sick animals or their faeces.
Sarcoptic mange
Contact with infected pigs, dogs and cats.
Small red itchy areas on the skin due to infection by the mite Sarcoptes scabei.
Treat and control sarcoptic mange in animals.
Psittacosis
Inhalation of the droppings or blood of infected pigeons, parrots, ducks and turkeys.
Severe coughing; can result in heart failure and death if untreated.
Have sufficient ventilation when working in pigeon or poultry houses. Use a face mask and gloves if doing necropsies on dead birds.
Disease
How it is transmitted
Symptoms in humans
Prevention
Rabies
Bites by infected dogs, jackals, cattle, horses, sheep, wildlife.
Mania and death Vaccinate all dogs. If cattle or any other animals show symptoms, call the state veterinarian URGENTLY. If bitten, go straight to a clinic or doctor and inform the state vet.
Rift Valley Fever
Mosquito bites during an outbreak, contact with blood or aborted material from infected sheep or cattle.
Fever, retinitis with haemorrhage and edema, causing blindness. Encephalistis, liver and kidney failure. Can be fatal.
Ringworm
Contact with in- Round, scaley fected animals. skin lesions
Treat animals with ringworm. Consult a physician if you become infected.
Tick bite fever
Bites by ticks.
Blackened area after 10 days where bitten by a tick. Severe headaches.
Consult a physician for treatment with antibiotics.
Toxoplasmosis
Consumption of poorly cooked mutton or pork. Ingestion of soil contaminated with cat faeces
Granulomas in the brain of HIV positive people. Abnormalities in newborn children if mothers infected while they are pregnant.
Cook meat well. Scrub hands and nails before eating, particularly after digging in gardens.
Vaccinate sheep if there is an outbreak. Use protective clothing and masks if working with infected animals or carcases. Control mosquitoes.
Source: Prof CME McCrindle, Section head of Veterinary Public Health, Deptartment of Paraclinical Sciences, at the Faculty of Veterinary Science of the University of Pretoria. Our thanks to Dr PH “Rick” Mapham of Veterinary House Hospital for feedback on the draft chapter. Contact him at 033 342 4698.
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National issues Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) Also referred to as Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE)
1. Overview There has been a global move in the last few years towards requiring businesses to be more accountable for the people they employ; the communities they live in and work amongst; and the businesses with which they do business. Most developed countries and many developing nations have embraced concepts like Triple Bottom-line Accounting, which requires a business to “account” for the way they treat society (issues like Affirmative Appointments; Skills Development; Corporate Social Investment; Small Business Development and Preferential Procurement) and the way they treat the environment. Other countries make use of Social Responsibility Indexes or “Investor in People” standards to measure and report on the social responsibility of businesses. First and foremost, BEE is an attempt to encourage all businesses to measure and report on the role they are playing in uplifting the society they are in. It is about encouraging the formal upliftment of the “have-nots” or previously disadvantaged. That most of the “have-nots” in South Africa are black (African, Coloured or Indian) is a result of past disadvantage. That is why, in South Africa, our socio-economic empowerment programme is, for the foreseeable future, focused on black South Africans. South Africa is pioneering a model for socio-economic empowerment and it will have successes and failures. Time will show up the mistakes in the policy and these will hopefully be corrected. Lessons like Zimbabwe on our border show what happens when we fail to deal with social imbalances in a structured, international best-practice model. What is true is that if we can fast-track capacity building; create a more-equal sharing of wealth; and continue to grow and be more competitive, we will reap the fruits of these programmes in the years to come. This will be up to individual companies, and the individuals within those companies, as to how well we succeed or how much we fail at becoming more sustainable businesses, communities and a more socially balanced country. Source: Adapted from an article by William Janisch, Empowerment Services
2. Black Economic Empowerment: a history How does one go about encouraging an economy to achieve a transformation to a more equitable distribution of wealth without destabilising it? Early attempts by corporate businesses to sell stakes to black shareholders often involved intricate mechanisms of finance that either effectively gave no control to the new shareholder or relied heavily on an increase in share price in order for them to gain any material benefit whatsoever. Many of these deals were doomed to fail. Some were successful, but have been criticized for putting much wealth in the hands of very few, while for most previously disadvantaged South Africans the struggle continues. This fact did not go unnoticed and in 1998 the black business bodies established the Black Economic Empowerment Commission, a think tank of politicians, economists and consultants who set about trying to find an answer to the problems that were holding back economic transformation. In 2001 they released a report that changed Government’s thinking on Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) and painted some broad strokes about the way forward. Firstly, they recommended that Government should get in the driving seat. Secondly, they pointed out that BEE involved more than just the transfer of assets. There were other aspects such as the development of skills, creating equitable standards in the workplace and the general upliftment of communities. Thirdly, they pointed out that unless there was
a way to measure the contribution an enterprise was making towards BEE, there would be no way to manage the process. Based on these recommendations, the Government released a strategy document early in 2003. It was in this document that the notion of a BEE scorecard was introduced. For the first time there was a mechanism for measuring the progress towards BEE and so now there was a way to manage and drive that process forward. During 2004, 2005 and 2006, various draft BEE Codes and Scorecards were debated and put out for public comment. Finally, in late January 2007, Business, Government, Labour and Civil Society signed off the final BEE Codes of Good Practice which were gazetted on 9 February 2007 and thus begun at least a ten year period of measurement of Broad-Based BEE – so named because it measures a broad number of contributions by an enterprise to social upliftment – not just the transfer of ownership and management. In 2009 President Zuma appointed members to the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Council. The functions of the Council, chaired by the President, are to advise government on Black Economic Empowerment. Government plans to hold a national summit in 2010 to address challenges and gaps in the policy. Visit www.thedti.gov.za for updates People who use the term “Broad Based BEE (B-BBEE)” rather than “BEE” are emphasising that Empowerment benefit the many as opposed to the few. The scorecard becomes more important than straight forward ownership, because recognition is given to management control, skills development and supplier development, Employment Equity etc.
3. How BEE works The BEE Codes set principles of how organisations are to be measured as to their social contributions as well as defining Scorecards which allocate targets for each “element” of the scorecard as well as a certain number of points for achieving that target (also known as a “weighting” for that element). There are a number of scorecards depending on the size, sector or ownership of the business (e.g. Multinationals or public organizations might have slightly amended scorecards). The Department of Trade and Industry (dti) was responsible for the development of the BEE Codes so the main Codes of Good Practice for BEE and the Scorecards resulting from that document are referred to as the dti Codes. The dti BEE scorecard looks at seven elements of transformation that an enterprise could be measured on. Below we list the points or weightings for larger businesses (those with a turnover of more than R35million per year). Scorecards for smaller businesses, the AgriBEE sector (see heading 4) or organisations with no ownership or government ownership might have different points allocations: 1) Ownership (20) – looking at the percentage Black shareholders in a company; 2) Management (10) – looking at the percentage of Black top management in a company; 3) Employment Equity (15) – looking at the percentage of Black senior, middle and junior management; technical, professional skills and academically qualified workers; 4) Skills Development (15) – looking at what is being done to train Black employees; 5) Preferential Procurement (20) – looking at how much is purchased from companies that contribute well to BEE; 6) Enterprise Development (15) – looking at what a company is doing to invest and/or develop BEE companies; 7) Socio-economic (5) – looking at what/how a company is contributing to the black community. The figures in brackets refer to the points or weighting given to the element. This then adds up to a total of 100 points – kind of like writing a test on BEE. The details of the formulae and targets are contained in a series of documents called the “Codes of Good Practice for BEE”. The BEE Codes of Good Practice were gazetted into law in February 2007 and will span at least a ten-year period.
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Find the latest on www.dti.gov.za and the other websites mentioned under headings 7 and 8.
What does a BEE score mean? Getting a BEE score is voluntary. There is no legal requirement for any company to obtain one. Your company’s score will however contribute to your customers’ BEE scores and so you will probably find that they will request that you give them an official BEE Certificate in order that they can calculate their score under the Preferential Procurement element. By the same token you will need to obtain the BEE Certificates of your suppliers in order to calculate your BEE score. Other drivers behind getting a good BEE Score might include: • Those wishing to access government finance might be required to get a certain minimum BEE Score • Certain products may receive a “BEE Label” in stores depending on the score of the producer or grower • Prices paid for land under land reform may be adjusted according to BEE scores of the seller • Public perception might drive bigger brands to achieve a reasonable score so as not to fall foul of a disapproving public • The social imperative. If we do not develop our society so that the vast majority participate meaningfully in the economy as soon as possible, we could suffer social or political collapse and we will continue to suffer the economic consequences – high (and violent) crime and high social welfare costs The higher your score, the more you will count towards your customer’s score. The degree to which a score counts is illustrated on the following table. The “Recognition Level” is the factor by which a customer’s spend with you will be multiplied in order to calculate their BEE procurement spend with you. How this works is illustrated in the example below: BEE Score
BEE Status
Recognition Level
100+
Level 1
135%
≥85 < 100
Level 2
125%
≥75 < 85
Level 3
110%
≥65 < 75
Level 4
100%
≥55 < 65
Level 5
80%
≥45 < 55
Level 6
60%
≥40 < 45
Level 7
50%
≥30 < 40
Level 8
10%
< 30
Non-compliant
In order to calculate the “BEE Spend” with a company you: • multiply the actual amount spent with the company by their recognition level; • total these up to calculate the total “BEE Spend”; • divide the result into the total “Actual Spend” to get a percentage. In this case R720 / R1000 = 72%. This figure is then compared with the target on the scorecard in order to calculate the BEE points. If the target percentage was 70%; in the above case with a score of 72%, this company would get full points for the total spend target (whatever points were allocated to that target. As you can see from the above table, the more a customer spends with a supplier, the greater their influence on the customer’s score. Ideally, you would want the suppliers you spend the most with to have the best scores. Source: Empowerment Services
4. AgriBEE AgriBEE is the transformation charter or Sector Charter for the agricultural sector. This leads one to question: “What is a Sector Charter and why do we need them?” All sectors do not use the Department of Trade & Industry’s BEE Codes (dti Codes). Some Sectors felt the need to adjust the dti Codes to make provision for specific issues facing their own sector or to reward contributions that their sector was best able to make For example: the finance sector is best able to finance empowerment or bank the un-banked so they have included these as targets in their scorecard. The IT sector can help provide Internet bandwidth and computer centres to schools and communities so they might include that as a target in their scorecard. Agriculture has a very specific contribution to make in terms of agricultural land and has historical issues to deal with including high illiteracy rates and HIV infection rates so chooses to focus attention on these issues amongst others. The dti Codes set specific rules for establishing Sector Charters or Sector Codes because the country cannot afford to have one sector “getting away with murder” while another sector has very heavy targets. Therefore, in order to keep everyone on the same general playing field, the dti Codes state the following:
Example: Let us say that you have four suppliers. You spend different amounts with them and they have different BEE scores as illustrated in the table below: Supplier
Actual Spend
BEE Level
Recognition BEE Spend Level
A
R150
Level 4
100%
R150
B (QSE)
R250
Level 7
50%
R125
C
R550
Level 5
80%
R440
D
R50
Level 8
10%
R5
TOTAL
R1 000
R720
A Sector Charter (or Section 12 Charter as some call it) is the voluntary gathering together of a sector to set itself transformation targets, which it will attempt to keep. A sector charter can be gazetted for information purposes but has not weight when it comes to determining your BEE score. Even if your sector has a sector charter, you will still be measured on the dti Codes to determine your BEE Status. The Charter targets are more guidelines for what kinds of contributions the sector expects from its stakeholders. A Sector Code (or Section 9 Charter as some call it) replaces the dti Codes for that particular sector! There are strict rules for establishing Sector Codes. They must be significantly aligned with the dti Codes; they must include all seven elements (e.g. Ownership, Skills Development, Procurement etc.) of the dti Codes but can include additional items which will then “steal” points away from one or more of the other seven elements; the amendments to the dti Codes must be justified and approved by all major stakeholders in the sector as well as put out for general public comment so other sectors can comment on whether they feel the scorecard is fair.
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Therefore, in the absence of a Sector Code, one is automatically measured on the dti Codes. The AgriBEE Charter was gazetted as a Sector Charter (Section 12 Charter) and so remains only a guideline and voluntary commitment of the sector (rather than a scorecard) which Verification Agencies will use for measurement. Businesses falling under the scope of the AgriBEE Charter are encouraged to measure their contributions against the indicative AgriBEE Scorecard as well as the dti Scorecard – unless AgriBEE were to become a Sector Code (Section 9 Charter). Readers should check the dti website (www.thedti.gov.za) from time to time to determine when / if the AgriBEE Charter is gazetted as a Sector Code in which case the AgriBEE Scorecard will become the official scorecard for the Agri Sector.
One of the most devastating acts of economic disempowerment in South Africa’s history was the removal of its indigenous people from the land they had occupied for centuries, initially through force of arms and later through discriminatory laws and a system of taxation designed to force Africans into the industrial labour market. For these communities, loss of land amounted to a loss of economic independence and for many a loss of a viable livelihood. Formalised in the 1913 Land Act and apartheid-era forced removals, this dispossession and its after-effects persist to this day – where access to productive agricultural land remains largely the preserve of a racially defined minority. While the industrialisation process of the last century has resulted in largescale urbanisation, there remain significant numbers of South Africans living in rural areas. Land reform and rural development must therefore necessarily form part of any comprehensive BEE strategy. Source: www.about-south-africa.com
Some of the main differences are: • Micro businesses (those turning over less than R5million per year) do not get a blanket exemption but are rather encouraged to participate in at least two areas of the scorecard. • Qualifying Small Enterprises (QSEs) – those turning over between R5million and R35million per year need to choose 5 out of the seven elements of the scorecard – each of which is worth 20 points – whereas the dti scorecard requires QSEs to select 4 elements worth 25 points each. • Employment Equity points are reduced from 15 to 10 points and there is more emphasis on upper management. • Skills Development is raised from 15 to 20 points to encourage this element. Points are awarded for having BEE and Skills strategies. • Preferential Procurement still awards 20 points but redistributes the points to award points for overall percentage of spend spent on good BEE companies and to reward the purchase of goods and services from small and micro-enterprises. The points in the dti scorecard for purchasing from black-owned and black women-owned businesses are not in the AgriBEE scorecard • Enterprise Development is reduced from 15 points to 10 points and the target contribution from 3% Net Profit After Tax (NPAT) to 2% NPAT – but 3 bonus points are awarded for leasing productive land to black people. • The Socio-Economic Development part of the Scorecard is changed to be called Rural Development, Poverty Alleviation and CSI. It is increased from 5 points to 10 points and the contribution is increased to 1,5% of NPAT from the dti’s 1% NPAT. The alternative is to provide 10% of your productive farm land to your black workers for at least 10 years. • Land and Farming Businesses are separated and an agri-business or farmer can get points by either selling a stake in their agribusiness OR by selling some of their land OR a combination of a little bit of both. • Leasing Land or Capital Assets to BEE beneficiaries for at least 10 years can earn Enterprise Development points. • Productive Land can be made available to farm workers under the Rural Development, Poverty Alleviation and CSI section of the Scorecard.
5. BEE and the small business • It is clear that AgriBEE is a process, not a once-off occurrence. • Black Economic Empowerment directly affects each business and corporate citizen. It is already the new way of doing business, and organisations that ignore it will definitely be marginalised by the rest of the economy in time and eventually be influenced negatively by the rest of the economy. • Farmers should be proactive in their environment to prevent land being repossessed for redistribution to people that have no interest or feeling for agriculture. • Producers do not have to give away anything free of charge; a business approach to BEE should be followed continuously. • It is, however, very important that everyone realises that a paradigm shift is necessary. Source: www.senwes.co.za
Who oversees the implementation, measurement and ongoing amendments to AgriBEE? The AgriBEE Charter envisages the establishment of an AgriBEE Charter Council which will monitor, evaluate and report on BEE to the national BEE Advisory Council which is established by the president. The AgriBEE Charter Council is empowered to revise any provisions in the AgriBEE Charter in consultation with the Ministers of Agriculture,Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) and Trade & Industry. The actual measurement of AgriBEE will be done by Verification Agencies who are required to become accredited by the dti to perform this task. A Verification is done annually at a time of your choosing and a certificate is issued stating your BEE Score and BEE Status Level for the year ahead.
What are the main differences between the dti Codes and AgriBEE? The dti Codes are, needless to say, very generic. They set standards for businesses in general. The AgriBEE Charter (due to become a Code in the future) adjusts the dti scorecard to be better focused on the needs of Agriculture.
Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment codes apply to enterprises, defined by their turnover. Businesses turning over more than R35million annually are measured on the Indicative AgriBEE Scorecard while those with an annual turnover of between R5million and R35 million are called Qualifying Small Enterprises (QSEs) and are measured on the AgriQSE Scorecard. On the AgriQSE Scorecard, all elements are worth 20 points and a QSE need only select 5 of the 7 areas in which to comply. (Please note: This may change back to the dti model where each area is worth 25 points and only 4 elements need to be selected but at the time of going to press it was 5 elements each worth 20) Businesses with an annual turnover under R5 million a year are called Emerging Micro Enterprises (EMEs), and are automatically given a good BEE status (level 4 – see table under heading 1). EMEs are exempt from having to obtain a scorecard and do not have to comply with the codes. Please Note: The R5million threshold for EMEs is an indicative threshold, which might be changed when an Agri Sector Code is gazetted based on appropriate benchmarking studies, sub-sector inputs or other consultation. Despite the above, the AgriBEE Charter encourages the participation of EMEs in transformation in the following ways: • An EME can choose to be measured according to any two elements of the scorecard – in which case each element is worth 50 points. Those that achieve a score of between 50 and 70 on the AgriQSE Scorecard will then be given Level 3 BEE status; while those achieving 70 points or more will achieve Level 2 BEE Status. • An EME can choose to be measured on any three elements of the scorecard – in which case each element is worth 33.3 points. Those that achieve a score of between 45 and 65 on the AgriQSE Scorecard will then be given Level 3 BEE status; while those achieving 65 points or more will achieve Level 2 BEE Status. • The BEE status of an EME will be raised by one level if black people hold more than 50% economic interest and voting rights in that business (e.g. If it scores Level 3, it will be raised to level 2) All along the food chain, companies are going to be looking at the BEE credentials of their suppliers.
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In order to determine your BEE score, your business will need to be verified. This means that you need to get an approved verification agency to go through your paperwork and give you a rating – a BEE score. The costs of verification will vary depending on the amount of work involved. The basis for charging will be similar to that of auditors and accountants. It is estimated that for a small business the cost per rating will be between R2 000 and R10 000. Having all the information readily available for verification agents when they arrives will help to keep the cost of your verification down. Source: Empowerment Services. Find the tables showing the scorecards for large businesses and small businesses at the end of this chapter
6. National Strategy Government is of the view that the B-BBEE framework should reinforce skills and rural development, enterprise and social development while it must also attend to issues of job creation through procurement and entrepreneurship. Department of Trade and Industry (the dti) Tel: 0861 843 384
Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Directorate: Business and Entrepreneur Development Find the BEE menu option on the BEE Policy Unit website – www.thedti.gov.za Tel: 012 319 8145
[email protected] Association of BEE Verification www.daff.gov.za Agencies (ABVA) Tel: 086 111 2282 www.abva.co.za Other roleplayers are: Government (Provincial and Local), Private sector (Agri-businesses, Commercial Banks), Land Bank, Commercial Agriculture, Emerging farmers and their communities.
What many do not know, as well, is that the development of the BEE Codes was one of the most participative and collaborative processes ever undertaken to develop a socio-economic measurement framework. Public submissions and representations were received from thousands of parties and interest groups; hundreds of workshops were held to debate each and every issue with those who had interesting contributions; and the Codes are the product of draft after draft. The Department of Trade & Industry (dti), which has led the process of Codes development, is also well aware of the implications of increasing the cost of doing business too much seeing that they primarily deal with international trade issues. Foreign Direct Investment would be turned away and South African products and services would become noncompetitive. So they have worked hard to strike a balance between needing South African companies to help invest in the “Have-nots” and become more socially sustainable; but at the same time, not put burdens on them which are too heavy. Source: William Janisch, Empowerment Services
7. Websites and publications • The National BEE Handbook. This is a 600 page A4 book dedicated to BEE compliance and best practice published by the publishers of this National Agricultural Directory. The book contains anything and everything you could want to know about BEE – finance, verifications etc. See www.rainbowsa.co.za. • Everyone’s Guide to Black Economic Empowerment by Robin Woolley. Order it from Zebra Press (visit www.zebrapress.co.za). • Visions of Black Economic Empowerment Xolela Mangcu, Gill Marcus, Khehla Shubane and Adrian Hadland (editors). • Broad Based BEE The Complete Guide Vuyo Jack ISBN 978 1920099213. • www.businessmap.co.za – BusinessMap Investment Strategy Advisors (Pty) Ltd. • Standard Bank has an excellent DVD presentation of AgriBEE. Call 011 636 6162. • www.itsmybsusiness.co.za for resources that will help you get to grips with BEE. • www.senwes.co.za – Senwes provides you with information regarding AgriBEE that offers practicable solutions. Take the “Corporate Information” and “Black Economic Empowerment” options. • Find details of the latest The Way to BEE by Cliffe Dekker on www. cdfm.co.za • Family business and broad-based black economic empowerment in South Africa. Tony Balshaw. Toshkryll Publishers. Tel: 043 726 9898. Fax: 043 726 9899. Email
[email protected]. This short and concise guide explains BEE in the family business context. • The CSI Handbook. Trialogue. Tel: 021 683 7417. www.csimatters. co.za. • www.littleblackbook.co.za – for a list of black professionals. They may be found by name or by segment (e.g. Advertising/marketing, business, government etc). • www.skillsportal.co.za – The Skills Portal website. The BEE menu option takes the visitor to a number of useful documents and papers. • Visit www.econoscorecard.co.za for an easy-to-use computer program designed to help a business draw up its BEE scorecard.
8. Roleplayers AGRI LAND GROUP Tel: 012 345 3911 Tel: 031 583 6600 Tel: 011 699 2000 www.agrilandgroup.com Agri Mega Empowerment Solutions (AgriMES) Tel: 028 424 2890 / 425 2524 www.agrimega.co.za Services to organised agriculture and commodity organisations. BEE. Accredited Training. Labour services. Agricultural Business Chamber (ABC) Tel: 012 807 6686 / 082 441 2308 www.agbiz.co.za
Agri-Africa Tel: 021 886 6826 / 082 950 9294
[email protected] www.agri-africa.co.za AgriBEE is one of several areas where Agri-Africa fulfils a consultancy role, “reviewing and creating solutions to the challenges offered”. Empowerment Services Tel: 011 485 2036 William Janisch – 083 256 2777 william@empowermentservices. co.za
One of South Africa’s leading BEE consultancies having played a role in the development of the BEE Codes and consulted Find the “BEE & Transformation” to hundreds of organisations. ES menu option on the website has presented on BEE to farming communities across South Africa Agri SA in a fresh, thought-provoking way. Tel: 012 643 3400 www.agrisa.co.za
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Fair Trade Label SA (FTSA) Tel: 021 448 8911 www.fairtrade.org.za
National Empowerment Fund Tel: 011 305 8000 www.nefcorp.co.za
Fair Trade Labelling gives BEE ventures a marketing edge. Consumers contribute directly to the soial development of producers and farm workers.
New Generation Agri Tel: 021 863 0397
Black Empowerment and Development company, promoting and facilitating agribusiness in the Food and Allied Workers Union Emerging Farming sector. (FAWU) Tel: 021 637 9040 Phatisa www.fawu.org.za Tel: 011 501 4806
[email protected] Fort Hare Dairy Trust (FHDT) www.phatisa.com Jeff Every – 041 379 4800 Leonard Mavhungu – 082 795 If you are the owner of a successful 7455 agri business interested in acquiring, selling or partially realising your FHDT is a partnership between investment; plan to expand your white farmers from the business or fund an acquisition Tsitsikamma and Underberg areas, or need agricultural/agri business through their company Amadlelo advice, consider engaging Phatisa Agri; the University of Fort Hare; as your adviser. 600 workers from 70 dairy farms; and Vuwa Investments. Find the Senwes Agricultural Services archived Business Day article on this Tel: 018 464 7800
[email protected] enterprise from May 2009 called www.senwes.co.za “Producing the cream of the crop”. Visit www.businessday.co.za. Find the highly practical notes on the website. Foundation for African Business and Consumer South African Agricultural Services (FABCOS) Processors Organisation Tel: 011 333 3701 / 011 809 4900 Tel: 012 663 1660 www.fabcos.co.za www.grainmilling.org.za Provincial contact details available on the website Futuregrowth Asset Management Tel: 021 659 5300 www.futuregrowth.co.za
are Standard Bank General enquiries: 011 636 6162 Fax: 011 636 8218 sbsaagriculture@standardbank. co.za
South African Fruit Exporters (SAFE), one of South Africa‘s leading global fruit exporting and logistical services providers, announced a large empowerment transaction funded by Futuregrowth Asset Management in November 2009. The deal involves the sale of 50% of the equity from existing shareholders in SAFE to the United Farmers’ Fund Trust (UFF), a broad-based BEE trust with a focus on land reform and rural development. Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Tel: 011 269 3000 www.idc.co.za
This bank’s commitment to BEE is about creating an economically sustainable black business sector as the foundation to growth and profitability. They have had excellent results to date and continue to play a role in developing the sector. Read about BEE success stories in their quarterly AgriReview, available on www.standardbank.co.za Helmut Wolff Tel: 011 803 1287 / 082 679 8969 www.iib.ws Womiwu Rural Development Tel: 015 297 2107
[email protected] www.womiwu.com
Ventex Corporation Wim Venter National African Farmers Union Tel: 051 436 6453 / 079 668 5111 www.ventex.co.za (NAFU SA) Tel: 082 672 2484
General BEE consultants The following deal with mainly Corporate Client Bases: • BEE2Business Tel: 012 365 3699 www.bee2business.co.za • Ernst & Young Tel: 011 772 3184 www.ey.com • Pricewaterhouse Coopers Tel: 011 797 5641 www.pwcglobal.com
The following have corporate AND SMME client bases: • BEESA Consulting Tel: 011 726 3052 www.beesa.co.za • BEE Registry Tel: 011 976 1320 www.beeregistry.co.za • Black Business Link www.blackbusinesslink.co.za • Black Pride Marketing Tel: 011 420 0272 www.blackpride.co.za • Businessmap Investment Strategy Advisors
[email protected] www.businessmap.co.za • Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr Tel: 011 290 7000 www.cdfm.co.za • EconoBEE Tel: 011 483 1190 www.econobee.co.za • Empowerdex Tel: 011 783 0177 www.empowerdex.co.za • Empowerlogic Tel: 011 612 3560 / 70 or 0861114003 www. empowerlogic.co.za • Ezee-dex Tel: 011 446 3600 www.edx.co.za • KPMG Tel: 011 647 7111 www.kpmg.co.za • Mpowerratings Tel: 011 486 4814 www.mpowerratings.co.za • NERA Tel: 011 678 1482 www.nerasa.co.za • SEESA Tel: 012 810 2000/ 021 919 9200 www.seesabee.co.za • Transcend Tel: 011 442 2433 www.transcend.co.za • Verify Solutions www.verifysolutions.co.za The accreditation of the Verification Agencies has been entrusted to the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) by the dti.
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9. A look at the commercial farmer’s BEE scorecard Farmers in South Africa have already made great contributions with respect to the proposed Scorecard. Here is a short explanation of how progress has possibly been made already: • Direct BEE • Indirect BEE • Sectoral focus
• Human Resource Development • Affirmative Action
Direct BEE • Management – Many farmers already have workers’ committees on their farms that participate in the management of farming activities. • Shareholding – Numerous workers at farm level already benefit from profit sharing and performance bonus schemes. HR Development and Affirmative Action • Affirmative action at all levels – Farm workers have already been promoted to foremen, divisional heads or managers on many farms. • Capacity building – Many farmers have provided education, bursaries, in job training in agriculture, training in crafts and handiwork, as well as all sorts of mentorship for own and other newcomers on their farms.
Indirect BEE Preferential procurement – All sorts of services and products are already obtained from BEE companies. The supply of fuel, for instance, is mainly from such sources. Sectoral focus Social responsibility – South African farmers make great contributions at the rural level with regard to social responsibility and have excelled with respect to: • housing • clinics • recreation centres and sports grounds • transport • home industries • schools • other training such as literacy programmes • pension and medical schemes
Other mechanisms In view of AgriBEE and the requirements that are set against the establishment of new farmers, white South African commercial farmers can make excellent contributions with regard to: • mentorship to new beginner farmers to develop technical and business skills; • supply mechanisation services for new beginner farmers on contract for compensation OR in exchange for the use of a portion of their land; • rent land from new beginner farmers in order to promote their cash flow; • donate surplus implements that can be used in a mechanisation pool for rental. To make a success of AgriBEE will require synergy and creative thoughts. The government has already realised that it has world-class expertise in the South African farmer. A team effort is essential for BEE to be successful and it is recommended that as many partners as possible with common goals are involved so as to spread the risks. Source: www.senwes.co.za
The AgriBEE scorecard for large businesses >R35million turnover Element
Ownership
Weighting
Indicator Category
Indicator
Voting rights
Exercisable Voting Rights in the Enterprise in the hands of Black People
3
25% + 1 vote
Exercisable Voting Rights in the Enterprise in the hands of Black Women
2
10%
Economic Interest in the Enterprise to which Black People are entitled
4
25%
Economic Interest in the Enterprise to which Black Women are entitled
2
10%
Economic Interest in the Enterprise to which Black designated groups, deemed participants in distribution schemes, participants in co-operatives, are entitled
1
2,5%
Ownership fulfilment Net Equity Interest Achieved accordingly: 10% of the Target (Year 1) 20% of the Target (Year 2) 40% of the Target (Year 3-4) 60% of the Target (Year 5-6) 80% of the Target (Year 7-8) 100% of the Target (Year 9-10)
1
No restrictions
Involvement in the ownership of the Enterprise of Black New Entrants; Black Disabled People, Black Youth and Black Deemed Participants of Broad-Based Ownership Schemes; or Black Participants in Cooperatives
3
Bonus per each level of 5%
Commercial agricultural land transferred or sold to Black People
20
30%
Contribution to achieving in excess of 30% land transfer
5
30% (Bonus point per each percentage of land transferred above 30% of total land)
Board Participation Percentage of exercisable Voting Rights held by Members of the Board who are Black People to the total of all Voting Rights exercised by all members of the Board
3
50%
Executive Members of the board who are Black People
1
50%
Executive Members of the board who are Black Women
1
25%
Top Management Percentage that Senior Top Management who are Participation Black People constitute of the total number of Senior Top Management
2
40%
Percentage that Senior Top Management who are Black Women constitute of the total number of Senior Top Management
1
20%
Percentage that Other Top Management who are Black People constitute of the total number of Other Top Management
1
40%
Percentage that Other Top Management who are Black Women constitute of the total number of Other Top Management
1
20%
Percentage that Black People who are Independent Non-executive Board Members constitute of the total number of Independent Non-executive Board Members
1
40%
20% Economic Interest
Realisation Points
Bonus Points
Land Ownership
20% Bonus Points
Management Control
10%
Bonus Points
Points
Target
7
Element
Weighting
Employment Equity
10%
52
Skills Development 20%
Indicator Category
Indicator
Points
Target
Black People with disabilities employed in by the Measured Enterprise as a percentage of all full-time employees
2
2%
Black People employed by the Measured Enterprise at Senior Management level as a percentage of employees at Senior Management level
2
60%
Black Women employed by the Measured Enterprise at Senior Management level as a percentage of employees at Senior Management level
2
30%
Black People employed by the Measured Enterprise at Professionally Qualified, Experienced Specialist and Mid-management level as a percentage of employees at Professionally Qualified, Experienced Specialist and Mid-management level
2
75%
Black Women employed by the Measured Enterprise at Professionally Qualified, Experienced Specialist and Mid-management level as a percentage of employees at Professionally Qualified, Experienced Specialist and Mid-management level
1
40%
Black People employed by the Measured Enterprise at Skilled Technical and Academically Qualified Workers, Junior Management, Supervisors, Foremen and Superintendents as a percentage of employees at Skilled Technical and Academically Qualified Workers, Junior Management, Supervisors, Foremen and Superintendents level
1
80%
Skills Development Skills Development spend on Black Employees as Spend a percentage of Leviable Amount; (85% of spend focused on core skills as identified by the enterprise and critical skills as identified by the relevant SETA)
6
2%
Skills Development spend on Black Women as a percentage of Leviable Amount; (85% of spend focused on core skills as identified by the enterprise and critical skills as identified by the relevant SETA)
2
0.93%
Spend on Black Employees with disabilities as a percentage of Leviable Amount
1
0.2%
Number of Black Employees participating in training programmes that lead to recognised qualifications as percentage of total employees
2
5%
Number of Black Women participating in training programmes that lead to recognised qualifications as percentage of total employees
2
2.5%
Number of people who are members of Black Designated Groups participating in training programmes that lead to recognised qualifications as percentage of total employees (the score in this element will be adjusted directly proportionate to the level of absorption of the participants in training programmes in the measured enterprise until a level of 80% absorption is attained)
1
1%
Existence of a comprehensive BEE strategy which is being implemented
Yes
1%
Payment of skills development levy as well as claiming levy money
Yes
1%
Existence of a policy on non-discrimination widely published within the company and ongoing facilitation of external diversity management training
Yes
1%
Compliance with relevant employment related legislation
Yes
1%
Implementation of an effective human resource management plan
Yes
1%
Existence of a programme designed to give practical effect to the stated policies and programmes
Yes
1%
2
70%
Recognised Training Programmes
Organisational Transformation Index
Bonus Points
Percentage of employees at ABET level 3
Element
Weighting
Indicator Category
Indicator
Preferential Procurement
20%
Preferential Procurement Spend
BEE procurement spend from Suppliers based on the BEE procurement recognition system contained in section 5.5 of the Charter
15
50%
BEE procurement spend from Qualifying Small Enterprises in accordance with the BEE procurement recognition system contained in section 5.5 of the Charter
4
15%
BEE procurement spend from Exempted Micro Enterprises in accordance with the BEE procurement recognition system contained in section 5.5 of the Charter
1
5%
Enterprise Development Spend
Cumulative contributions made by the Measured Entity to enterprise Development as a percentage of cumulative net profit after tax measured from the commencement / Inception Date to the date of measurement
10
2%
Bonus Points
Enterprise development contributions that directly increase employment levels in preceding year
1
Lease of 20% of land or capital assets on a long term basis to black persons which meets the criteria of a qualifying transaction as outlined in paragraph 5.1.1.3
2
Cumulative Rand value of corporate social investment contributions as a percentage of net profit after tax over five years measured from the commencement date of this Charter or the Inception Date over 10 years of the Charter period and/or Land made available to farm workers measured from the commencement date of this Charter or the Inception Date over 10 years of the Charter period
10
Corporate social investment contributions benefiting Black People in rural communities or geographic areas identified in government’s integrated sustainable development programme and urban renewal programme
1
Enterprise Development
Rural Development, Poverty Alleviation & CSI
10%
10%
Corporate Social Investment Spend and/or Land available to farm workers Bonus Point
Points
Target
53
Lease longer than 10 years 1.5% CSI 10% Land
The AgriQSE scorecard for small businesses >R5million to urban drift > increased pressure on urban infrastructure and employment > urban poverty > slums > crime > social conflict > political volatility
• crop residues remain on the soil surface as mulch • soil never bare – permanent soil cover • soil temperatures buffered by mulch • burning mulch prohibited • emphasis on soil biological processes • first option – biological pest control • green manure cover crops and crop rotations essential • soil erosion is caused by soil mismanagement Consequences of No-till & permanent soil cover 1 2 3 4
wind and water erosion near zero increased water infiltration into the soil soil water more available soil organic matter content and consequently soil quality maintained or enhanced 5 carbon is sequestered in the soil, enhancing soil quality and reducing global warming 6 soil improvement (chemical, physical and biological) 7 crop productivity increased 8 fertiliser use and costs of production reduced 9 survival of the family farm ensured (more even, sustainable and profitable crop production) 10 basic needs satisfied > rural living standard and quality of life increased > increased and diversified productivity > increased rural prosperity > return to the land > national stability
Off farm effects of soil erosion
Off farm effects of new production system
• sedimentation of rivers, dams, lakes etc. • reduced water quality & increased purification costs • problems in hydroelectric power plants • sedimentation of roads • higher costs for the government and for society due to off farm effects of soil erosion
• reduced rate of sedimentation of rivers, dams, lakes etc. • enhanced water quality & reduced purification costs • less problems for hydroelectric power plants • less sedimentation of roads • reduction of costs for the government and for society due to off farm effects of soil erosion
Result:
Result:
• Sustainable land use is not possible (ecologically, socially and economically). • Soil resource exploitation
• Sustainable land use ensured (ecologically, socially & economically). • Rational, site-oriented use of the soil
Source: A fter Derpsch 2004.
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wind and water erosion, reduces evaporation losses, minimises water runoff and can thereby dramatically increase soil water (from irrigation or rain) availability. Organic matter, the key ingredient in soil productivity, increases, as do earthworms, conservation tillage’s ‘biological plough’, reducing diesel requirements by up to 50% or more.
Some forms of Conservation Tillage: Conservation Agriculture, as defined by the Food & Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), is receiving growing acceptance internationally as the optimal crop production system, and includes all farming systems which involve simultaneous adherence to the principles of: • Minimal soil disturbance (including NO soil inversion) – to retain root channels and encourage the build-up of soil biota populations and hence soil structure; • Maximum soil cover (either by living crops or by crop or other plant residues) - to diminish the impact of raindrops and reduce water runoff (and consequently soil loss); and • Multi-cropping (especially crop rotation) - to increase the diversity of food sources and hence soil biota, especially predators, and break pest and disease cycles. Note that, although some organic farmers practice Conservation Agriculture, where production systems require the inversion or cultivation of the soil more than is necessary to insert the seed or seedling (for example, in the incorporation of manures) such systems can not be described as Conservation Agriculture systems. No Till (also called Zero Till or Direct Seeding) This is a crop production system that involves no seed bed preparation other than the opening (via a slit or punched hole) of the soil for the purpose of placing seed or seedling. No cultivation is performed during the growing season. As with Conservation Agriculture, weed control is accomplished using mulches, allelopathy (the antagonism of some plants or plant residues to other plants), crop rotation or appropriate (preferably narrow spectrum bio-friendly) herbicides. Minimum Tillage Are systems that involve minimal soil manipulation for crop production. Also referred to as reduced tillage, Minimum Tillage’s major objectives include: • to perform the minimum number and severity of operations thought necessary to optimise soil conditions, frequently differentiating between the in- and inter-row areas; • to minimise the number of trips over the field to avoid soil compaction and structural degradation; • to conserve moisture; • to reduce soil erosion; and • to reduce mechanical energy and labour requirements Some common Minimum Tillage systems include: • Till and Plant: tractor-driven equipment prepares narrow strips utilising shallow secondary tillage after the primary tillage and just ahead of the planter. • Strip Tillage: combination units perform strip or zone tillage just ahead of the planter in untilled soil (usually utilising a chisel plough, with the sole aim of improving porosity and rooting depth in root zone).
Specific practices include: • Rip-on-row: a heavy tine at a depth of 300-450mm is drawn in the line of the planned (often also the previous) row ahead of the planter. • Chisel: lighter chisel tines are drawn at a depth of 200-300mm as the sole cultivation prior to planting. • Chisel & disc: primary tillage is conduced using chisel tines only, followed by a light disc immediately prior to planting. • Disc-plant: one discing operation before planting is done to loosen the compacted soil surface, to control weeds, and to leave most of the residue on the surface. • Bed-plant: this method is commonly used for soil moisture management especially in surface irrigated crops where furrows are made at appropriate intervals raising the bed between. Ridge Till This is a planting method where crops are planted on the ridge top, in the furrow or along both sides of a ridge. The ridges may be on the contours with graded furrows draining into a grassed water way, or use short crossties to create a series of basins to store water in ‘tied-ridges’. Mulch Till This is a system that involves cutting the roots of weeds and other plants, leaving the crop residue on the surface or mixed into the top few centimetres of the soil. Conservation Agriculture (CA) now has an internationally accepted definition, being all agricultural crop production systems which involve the simultaneous application of and adherence to three fundamental principles, namely: 1. Minimum tillage (preferably direct seeding, Zero Till or No Till) with no soil inversion; 2. Maximum soil cover (ideally 80% plus) by the crop or, especially in the interval between harvest and planting, crop residues, in some areas provided by green manure cover crops; and 3. Multi-cropping (ideally crop rotation). Multi-cropping encourages the establishment and survival of a broad spectrum, balanced and consequently healthy soil micro-organism population and helps break pest and disease cycles. The varying times of planting, plant heights and allelopathic properties of the different crops reduce weed competition, as does the reduced mechanical spread resulting from the absence of tillage. Soil cover delays weed seed germination, and weed seedlings often succumb or have their vigour severely impaired by the need to force their way through the mulch. To encourage and ensure the survival of soil bio-systems only enviro-friendly herbicides should be used and, if care is taken to ensure weeds do not set seed and as weed seed banks from previous practices diminish, herbicide use decreases which, combined with the reduced requirement for heavy machinery and fuel, contributes significantly to the reduced cost per tonne produced characteristic of Conservation Agriculture. In short, therefore, by the SIMULTANEOUS utilisation of Conservation Agriculture’s three principles: • soil porosity, health and nutrient cycling is improved (the biological plough effect); • soil moisture capture, content and availability is increased; • weed populations and hence competition and herbicide dependence is reduced; • yields become less weather-dependent (much the same in wet, but higher than Conventional tillage in dry seasons); • cost of production, both per unit area but especially per tonne produced, is reduced; • profits and environmental and economic sustainability are markedly improved.
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2. National strategy and relevant directorates at DAFF Find information on, and contact details for, the different directorates at www. daff.gov.za
Provincial: KZN Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs & Rural Development Dr Allan Manson, Mr Guy Thibaud Tel: 033 355 9100
Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture Mr Felix Hobson Tel: 040 609 3478 Fax: 040 635 0604
“Xoshindlala” Programme: Planting without Ploughing Mr Johan Janse van Rensburg Tel: 033 3431395
Conservation Agriculture Thrust (CAT) Mr Dirk Lange Tel: 043 748 5534 / 072 256 4165 Fax: 043 748 5534
[email protected]
Western Cape Department of Agriculture Francis J Steyn Tel: 021 808 5090 Fax: 021 808 5092
[email protected]
Massive Food Production Scheme Mr Werner Ristow Tel: 039 727 3376 Fax: 039 727 1647
[email protected]
3. Training and research Institutions offering agricultural degrees/diplomas include conservation tillage in the syllabus. ARC – Grain Crops Institute Plant Science and Advisory Services Dr Jeanetta Saayman-du Toit Tel: 018 299 6297
[email protected]
ARC-Small Grains Institute (SGI) Mr Willem Kilian / Dr John Tolmay Tel: 058 307 3400
Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs / Cedara Research on conservation tillage Tel: 033 355 9192 / 9100 vs. conventional tillage is currently carried out at Cedara in association Annual workshops are conducted with the KwaZulu-Natal on various aspects of conservation tillage for small-scale farmers. Department of Agriculture. This is part of the “Xoshindlala” ARC-Institute for Soil, Climate Planting without Ploughing (PwP) and Water (ISCW) Programme. Short courses are also Drs Danie Beukes/Hendrik Smith run. Tel: 012 310 2500/6
[email protected] Elsenburg College of
[email protected] Agriculture Tel: 021 808 5450/1 ARC-Plant Protection
[email protected] Research Institute Tel: 012 808 8000 Stellenbosch University
[email protected] Department of Conservation
[email protected] Ecology and Entomology Tel: 021 808 3728 Conservation tillage has a number
[email protected] of unique problems regarding disease control and in particular Department of Agronomy root diseases. Research into the Tel: 021 808 4803 management of such diseases is an
[email protected] ongoing activity of plant pathologists of the Institute, with emphasis on University of Fort Hare the correct choice of rotation crops Prof Jan Raats and other management practices, Tel: 040 602 2232 such as the use of nitrogen- fixing
[email protected] legumes, for commercial and The Conservation Agriculture resource-poor farming. Research Thrust (CAT – see heading 2) is a is carried out both at ARC Research joint initiative between the Eastern stations and on-farm, especially Cape’s agriculture department in the Western and Eastern Cape and the University of Fort Hare. and KwaZulu-Natal, in association A three-week practical course with the provincial Departments of covering the basic principles of CA Agriculture and private companies. is given.
University of the Free State Centre for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development This Centre trains owners and Tel: 051 401 2163 operators in the use of especially animal-drawn equipment, especially This centre offers a masters degree Direct Seeders, and their use in in sustainable agriculture which Conservation Agriculture systems includes topics such as conservation suited to field and vegetable tillage. production. Soil, Crop and Climate Sciences Tel: 051 401 2212 Traction Centre Tel: 040 602 2125
4. Websites and publications • Conservation Farming in South Africa http://conservationfarming.co.za and www.notill.co.za • Find the CA pages on the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) website – www.fao.org/ag/ca • Conservation Agriculture is frequently covered in both agricultural weeklies Landbouweekblad and Farmer’s Weekly. Frequently, the Grain SA commercial farmer of the year practices no-till. Visit the archives of the publications at www.landbou.com and www.farmersweekly.co.za. You may notice that frequently, the Grain SA commercial farmer of the year practices no-till. • No-Till Farming Systems (2008). Special Publication No.3, World Association of Soil and Water Conservation, Bangkok. ISBN: 978-9748391-60-1, 544 pp. A global collection of information presented by farmers, extension specialists, discipline professionals and research scientists. Obtainable from WASWC National Representative Richard Fowler. Fax: 086 672 6872.
[email protected] • Conservation Agriculture: A manual for farmers and extension workers in Africa (2005). IIRR, Nairobi and African Conservation Tillage Network (ACT), Harare. Obtainable from
[email protected] • A Guide to No-Till Crop Production in KZN, 2nd Edition (1999). Available from the KZN No-till Club. Ms Sandra Findlay (secretary). Tel/fax: 033 344 3535, or write to
[email protected] or P O Box 1052, Howick, 3290. • Conservation Agriculture in Africa. Ademir Calegari, John Ashburner & Richard Fowler. FAO, Accra 2005. ISBN: 9988-627-04-01. • A booklet on no-till is available in isiZulu. Contact the KZN No-till Club. • The Beginner’s Guide to No-Till by Aubrey Venter. Contact the No-Till Club. • http://ca.ecoport.org An interactive dedicated website initiated here in South Africa and containing a wealth of information on Conservation Agriculture of use to farmers, advisers, researchers and educationists throughout the world. • www.rolf-derpsch.com – Rolf Derpsch is a well-known advocate of CT overseas. • A number of relevant publications are available from the ARC’s Institute for Agricultural Engineering e.g. Comparative review of technical specifications for no-till jab-planters. Call 012 842 4000.
5. Companies and associations involved Agricultural Resource Consultants Dr Jim Findlay Tel: 011 486 2254
[email protected] No-Till Club of KwaZulu-Natal Ms Sandra Findlay (secretary) Tel/fax: 033 344 3535
[email protected] Richard Fowler (Consultant) Tel: 082 777 6868
[email protected]
The information in this chapter is almost completely provided by Richard Fowler The Northern Conservation Farming study group (Noordelike Bewaaringsboerdery Studiegroep) Andre Ferreira Tel: 056 515 2145 This is based at Senekal, Free State. Technical talks are arranged.
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6. Farmer Points of Interest
Implements: • Afritrac 011 918 4698
[email protected] • Alpha Engineering 028 514 3450
[email protected] • Barloworld 011 898 0100
[email protected] • Carrotech 021 865 2044 • Eco Till Africa
[email protected] • Hastt Zimbabwe +263-62-33-55/8
[email protected] • Inttrac Trading 016 365 5799
[email protected] • Kouga Implemente 042 295 1146
[email protected] • John Deere SA 011 437 2629
[email protected] • Jumil SA 082 850 3744
[email protected] • Kongskilde SA 011 894 2341 • Northmec 011 922 2000
[email protected] • Rovic & Leers 011 976 3070
[email protected] • Van Niekerk Engineering 022 913 2435
[email protected] • Valtrac 056 817 7308
[email protected] No Till Seed Drills (suitable for planting wheat) Trade name and country of origin
Distributor
Alpha Engineering (RSA)
Alpha Engineering
Baldan (Brazil)
Northmec
Duncan (New Zealand)
Kouga Implemente
Eco Till (RSA)
Eco Till Africa
Hastt (Zimbabwe)
Hastt Zimbabwe
John Deere (USA)
John Deere
Kuhn Metasa (Brazil)
Rovic & Leers
Piket (RSA)
Van Niekerk Engineering
Tatu Marchesan (Brazil)
Valtrac
Tractor-drawn No Till Planters (suitable for planting maize, beans, sunflower, cotton etc) Trade name and country of origin
Distributor
Alpha Engineering (RSA)
Alpha Engineering
Baldan (Brazil)
Northmec
Eco Till (RSA)
Eco Till Africa
Gaspardo SP (Italy)
GMG Power
Hastt (Zimbabwe)
Hastt Zimbabwe
John Deere (USA)
John Deere SA
Jumil (Brazil)
Jumil SA
Kongskilde (Denmark)
Kongskilde SA
Kuhn Metasa (Brazil)
Rovic & Leers
Massey Ferguson (USA)
Barloworld
Monosem (France)
Carrotech
Tatu Marchesan (Brazil)
Valtrac
Vence Turdo (Brazil)
Inttrac Trading
Animal-drawn No Till Planters (suitable for planting maize, beans, sunflower, cotton etc) Trade name and country of origin
Distributor
Hastt (Zimbabwe)
Hastt Zimbabwe
Mealiebrand (Zimbabwe)
Afritrac
Knapik (Brazil)
Inttrac Trading
Farmers can have an enormous influence on ensuring the survival of the South Africa agricultural sector over the long term by adopting more sustainable management applications. Conservation farming techniques are increasingly promoted as one of the solutions to replenish South Africa’s soil resources. Conservation tillage involves the management of surface residues through reduced use of conventional tillage practices. Conservation tillage broadly includes no till, reduced till or minimum till applications where planters place the seed and fertiliser directly in the uncultivated soil, by only making a small furrow in the soil. The residues left on the soil act as a surface cover during the seedbed preparation and partially during the growing phase. The greatest benefits of this process are that it increases the organic matter, protects the soil from wind erosion, increases water retention capabilities and serves as a shock absorber for raindrop impact. Ultimately, erosion is reduced due to less intervention disturbing the soil. There might be an initial decrease in yield, but the savings made through reduced input costs outweigh any discrepancy in income. Deep and repeated tillage reduces earthworm populations by as much as 90%, not a good idea when one considers all the benefits brought to the soils by earthworms. And soil rich with earthworm tunnels is estimated to absorb four to 10 times more water than soil without. In conjunction with less tillage and leaving residues on the top soil for protection, farmers should also consider crop rotation as part of their conservation farming methods. Crop rotation allows the soil time to recover in between the various planting seasons; and by introducing crops like soybeans, farmers help in replenishing the nitrogen levels of the soil. A sound knowledge of environmental pressures and long-term thinking is critical if the farm business is to be competitive, sustainable and financially viable. Immediate survival is no longer the order of the day. Successful farm management demands exploring environmentally-friendly farm practices. Conservation Agriculture should be a consideration for every farmer concerned with sustainable growth. Source: A dapted from a press release done by Standard Bank through Magna C arta Public Relations.
7. International business environment • Conservation Agriculture has been tested, proven and is being practised under a wide range of agro-ecological conditions throughout the world, and is a major factor in the growing dominance of South American grain producers on world markets. • The African Conservation Tillage Network (ACT) consists of practitioners and promoters who believe the adaptation and adoption of conservation tillage principles is a cost effective method of reducing and reversing the environmental degradation and food insecurity devastating Africa. Contact the Regional Secretariat at
[email protected] or find the ACT Network on www.fao. org. • Find out about the European Conservation Agriculture Federation at www.ecaf.org The world needs to double its food production to feed 9 billion people by 2050. In the name of intensification in many places around the world, farmers over-ploughed, over-fertilised, over-irrigated and over-applied pesticides. This affected all aspects of the soil, water, land, biodiversity and the services provided by an intact ecosystem, and this began to reduce yield growth rates. Not only can Conservation Agriculture increase yields; it will also help the environment by restoring soil health, saving water and energy and reducing the footprint of a sector that currently accounts for some 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Source: Find the article “C onservation agriculture necessary to feed the w orld” at w w w.farmersw eekly.co.za
Our thanks to Richard Fowler for much of the information in this chapter.
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Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Programme Tel: 011 486 1102
Inputs
The Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Programme is part of the Endangered Wildlife Trust. They keep an eye on the misuse and overuse of chemicals in the environment, especially as it potentially affects wildlife. On an adhoc basis they are involved with the retrieval of unwanted and unused chemicals. When the need is there, they co-ordinate the collection of these agrochemicals. All wildlife poisoning events are investigated and samples are sent for toxicological analysis. The results are reported to the AVCASA Safety, Health and Environment committee on a quarterly basis.
Crop protection 1. Overview Chemical crop protection The global market for agrochemicals is in the order of $33 390 million, of which the South African market comprises between 2 and 3 percent. The South African market is by far the largest in Africa. The CropLife website records the breakdown of chemical crop protection as being: Segment
Percentage of market
Herbicides
39
Insecticides
27
Fungicides
22
Other
12
CropLife member companies support the aims of sustainable agriculture: to produce sufficient food and fibre economically and in an environmentally and socially sensitive manner, maintaining the natural resource base for future generations. The industry is committed to Integrated Pest Management as an economically viable, environmentally sound and socially acceptable approach to crop protection. Biological crop protection Biological control uses a pest or disease’s own natural enemies to control the pest or disease. Find the Biocontrol chapter.
Nematological Society of Southern Africa Dr Sonia Steenkamp (secretary) Tel: 018 299 6352 www.sanematodes.com
Southern African Society for Plant Pathology Dr Adele McLeod (secretary) Tel: 021 808 4795 http://saspp.org
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Registrar: Act No. 36 of 1947 Tel: 012 319 7303
[email protected] In South Africa all chemicals used for the control of any pest or disease on a plant must be registered for such use under Act 36 of 1947 (the Fertilisers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies Act). An amendment to this Act (No R.1716 of 26 July 1991) prohibits the acquisition, disposal, sale or use of an agricultural remedy for a purpose or in a manner other than that specified on the label on the container. Find the Act 36 of 1947 information on www.daff.gov.za. Directorate Plant Health Tel: 012 319 6529
[email protected]
2. Associations involved CropLife SA Tel: 011 805 2000 www.croplife.co.za CropLife SA, a section 21 Company not for gain, is an association representing the plant science industry, including the majority of responsible manufacturers and suppliers of crop protection products, and through its approved training and accreditation of member’s sales personnel it strives to ensure that farmers and other end-users are at all times provided with a professional and efficient service. Agricultural Chemical Distribution Association of South Africa (ACDASA) Tel: 011 805 2000 www.acdasa.co.za ACDASA is an independent Section 21 Association which, with the support of other agricultural organisations, promotes the effective and responsible marketing of crop protection products to agricultural producers. These associations want farmers and other users of its products to know that they are making their purchases from persons and companies which can give sound technical advice and whose employers are bound by the strict CropLife SA / ACDASA Code of Conduct. The stringent Code of Conduct, based on the FAO Code of Conduct, ensures that all members make input into and abide by ethical-, quality- and service guidelines, standards, codes and legislation, such as: • manufacturing quality practices • training in responsible use of products especially in the emergent sector
South African Pest Control Association Tel: 012 654 8038 www.sapca.org.za
• Marketing Code of Ethics • warehousing & transport standards • SANS codes of practice
When it comes to plant health and crop protection, the issue of export and import becomes important. Several organisms which are alien to the country have become established in South Africa. They are harmful and cause losses in agriculture. The Directorate of Plant Health has taken measures to combat the spread: the pest is monitored; samples of plant are tested to determine the specific pest status of the organism; they have also put in place a national policy under which it is prohibited to transport plant material from an infested area. As an exporting country, South Africa has to comply with the import conditions of other countries. Phytosanitary certificates are issued to indicate that an exporter has met the conditions under which the exporter may send goods to the other country. The Directorate maintains a database on the import conditions and procedures of various countries, gives advisory services, conducts laboratory tests (as requested by the importing country), and carries out field inspections. In co-operation with Provincial governments they administer laws relating to plant health, including the aspect of the control and eradication of pests and diseases. They run control programmes and issue regulations to protect and improve plant health. Directorate: Land Use and Soil Management Tel: 012 319 7685/6
[email protected] Redbilled Quelea (Quelea quelea sp.), a bird species, is an agriculturally important migratory pest to small grain crop-producing farmers of southern Africa. The policy for managing the Redbilled Quelea problem was established in 1994 under Act 36 of 1983. The Directorate: Land Use and Soil Management enforces this Act.
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4. Training and research
5. Websites and publications
CropLife SA: Plant Protection Training Course. This is an eightmodule correspondence course, with the option to attend lectures, followed by final examination and certification. All sales personnel of CropLife SA and ACDASA are required to pass this course in order to be allowed to give advice and sell our crop protection products. However the course is open to anyone wishing to learn more about crop protection and the products used in the industry. As of 2010, this will be offered as a Short Learning Programme by UNISA. Contact CropLife SA for details. CropLife SA: Responsible Use Training Course. Through this course, stewardship and sustainable agriculture are promoted by addressing issues such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM), container management and disposal of obsolete stocks. This also contributes towards the Good Agricultural Practice as required by GlobalGAP as well as the upliftment of small-scale/emerging farmers and to the protection of the environment. CropLife SA: Aerial Applicators Course. The only course for aerial applicators recognised by the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and Civil Aviation. The Agricultural Colleges do short courses on the handling of pesticides and herbicides. Find contacts in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter. ARC-Plant Protection Research Institute (PPRI) Tel: 012 808 8000 www.arc.agric.za
Stellenbosch University Department of Plant Pathology Tel: 021 808 4799 Department Conservation Ecology and Entomology Tel: 021 808 2821 www.sun.ac.za/consent
University of the Free State Centre for Sustainable Agriculture Courses are offered in integrated and Rural Development pest management (IPM) and Tel: 051 401 2163 developing agricultural systems. Department of Plant Sciences The monitoring and management Tel: 051 401 2514 of pests and weeds relevant to the particular crop e.g. maize or Visit the CePHMa website: viticulture is an element in courses www.cephma.org given by the other ARC institutes. University of KZN Department of Plant Pathology Cape Peninsular University of Tel: 033 260 5525/6 Technology (CPUT) Tel: 021 864 5217/3 University of Pretoria Plant Production and Soil Sciences Flori Horticultural Services Tel: 012 420 3227 Tel: 013 735 6883/082 564 1211
[email protected] Rahnier Grobler Tel: 072 624 9498
Registered chemicals in South Africa are published in guides such as A Guide for the Control of Plant Diseases and A Guide for the Control of Plant Pests issued by the DAFF on a regular basis. Contact 012 319 7141 or write: Resource Centre, Private Bag X144, Pretoria 0001. Find the Information Core for Southern African Migrant pests (ICOSAMP) pages on www.arc.agric.za Publications available from CropLife SA/ACDASA: • Guidelines for the Responsible Use of Crop Protection and Animal Health Products (Also in Afrikaans) • A Guide for Operators: Responsible Pesticide Use (Available in all 11 official languages) • Guide to the Treatment of Poisoning by Chemicals – a must for the medical profession. • Guidelines for the Road Transportation of Dangerous Goods • RSA Code for the Classification and Labeling Agricultural Chemicals • Responsible Use Poster The following publications are available from DAFF’s Resource Centre, and can also be viewed at www.daff.gov.za (take the “Publications” option): • • • • • • • •
Pesticides: disposing of empty containers Pesticides: How to handle pesticides safely Pesticides: poisoning Pesticides: protective clothing Pesticides: Safety measures Pesticides: storing agrochemicals and stock remedies Pesticides: What does the label say? Policy for managing the locust problem in SA
Find the Crop Pests publications (some available on CD-ROM) available from the ARC: visit their website – www.arc.agric.za. The ARC Plant Protection newletter is also here (and on www.agis.agric.za). Call 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for the following publication, available from the ARC in Silverton: • Mechanisation basics: Sprayers and spraying techniques (Training manual) • Small-scale chemical sprayer Bacterial Diseases of Plants in South Africa Teresa A Coutinho, Teresa Goszczynska, Cheryl Lennox and Stephanus Venter. ISBN 978-1-920146023. This new book provides information on bacterial diseases of agricultural crops, ornamentals and forest tree species. It is distributed by Briza Publications (http://briza.co.za/bookstore). www.pestsandcrops.com lists the pests of the more common field crops.
6. Major initiatives By CropLife SA and ACDASA under the umbrella association AVCASA In addition to the training courses (see “Training and Research”), the following is undertaken: Retrieval and disposal of obsolete stock. AVCASA is currently putting together a waste management programme in line with the National Waste Management Act which is aimed at retrieving and disposing of obsolete stocks in South Africa. Pesticide Container Management. AVCASA is working on various environmentally sound container management strategies for adoption and implementation by industry in line with the above. Aerial Application. CropLife SA, in alliance with the SA Aerial Applicators Association, acquired the most modern calibration equipment from the USA and during calibration “fly-ins”, aircrafts are upgraded in order to ensure more efficient aerial application of the products and the subsequent updating of existing label recommendations.
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7. CropLife SA member companies
Tsunami Crop Protection
011 812 9800
011 812 9812
COMPANY
TEL
FAX
Villa Crop Protection
011 396 2233
011 396 4666
Ag-Chem Africa
012 803 0145 / 9302
012 803 8418
Zetachem (Pty) Ltd
031 469 0165
031 469 0408
Agro-Organics
021 851 2403
021 852 3508
Avima
011 769 1300
011 762 5712
BASF SA
011 314 2900 / 203 2541
011 203 2431
Bayer Cropscience
011 921 5911
011 921 5671
Bitrad Consultants
012 666 8945
086 620 2899
Cash Chemicals
018 581 9828
018 581 9828
Chempac (Pty) Ltd
021 874 1055
Chemtura (Pty) Ltd
011 397 4336
011 397 4316
Cropchem (Pty) Ltd
011 963 1280
011 963 1036
Dow AgroSciences
021 872 1751
021 872 6291
Du Pont De Nemours
012 663 0844 / 683 5600
012 663 0845 / 643 0523
Enviro Industries (Pty) Ltd
056 213 4539
056 212 1080
Erintrade
033 386 9384
033 386 1634
Exportos
011 396 2233
011 396 2233 / 4225
FMC Chemicals
021 794 8566
021 794 8590
Gap Chemicals
011 706 1104
011 706 2330
Horticura
012 329 3301
012 329 2439
Hygrotech Seed
012 545 0100 / 8000
012 545 0150 / 0050
Ica International
021 886 9812
021 886 8209
Icon Chemicals
011 316 7431
011 316 7433
Illovo Sugar Limited
031 450 7700 / 826
031 469 4922
Insect Science (Pty) Ltd
015 307 1391
015 307 6555
Kannar Earth Science (Pty) Ltd
011 372 4700
011 372 4710
Kelp Products
021 786 2090
Klub M5 Kombat (Pty) Ltd
Associate Members Advantage Agri Products
021 872 5683
021 872 5673
Drom Monster
011 316 7431
011 316 7433
Efekto
011 304 7200
086 683 5384
H15 Integrated Logistics
012 345 5030
012 345 5580
Kaap Agri
021 860 8231
021 860 8228
MGK Bedryfsmaatskappy
012 381 2800 / 31
012 252 5790
Plant Science Consultants Association (PSCA)
011 822 8509
011 822 3494
SA Aerial Applicators’ Association
083 263 3213 028 261 1379
086 625 6725
SA Pest Control Association
086 111 4556
086 674 7880
8. ACDASA member companies COMPANY
TEL
FAX
Africa Agricultural Product Investments (Pty) Ltd
013 643 1225
013 643 1224
Agri Chemies
056 777 2817
056 777 1440
Agribiz
032 552 4459
032 552 4459
Agrison bk
082 579 7204
022 482 1930
Agromart
017 647 3091
017 647 3091
Alfa-Agrochem
056 212 4195
056 213 1749
021 786 3274
AJ Orsmond Spuitdiens
058 303 5634
058 303 7204
012 653 1782
012 653 6601
Avello (Pty) Ltd
014 717 9400
014 717 1210
033 417 1906
033 413 2940
011 460 1901
011 460 0174
Makhteshim-Agan SA
021 982 1460
021 982 5810
Avonrod Plant Protection cc
Meridian Agrochemical Comp
011 606 3304
011 588 3494
BayAgro Sentraal
053 441 3168
053 441 2423
082 415 4549
086 688 3488
Metson Manufacturing
011 792 8968
011 791 3198
BioCrop AgroChemicals
Monsanto SA
011 790 8200 / 13
011 790 8350 / 62
Biotrace Trading 266 (Pty) Ltd
015 491 7041
015 491 8209
Nialcor (Pty) Ltd
011 817 2822
011 813 1260
Boschem CK
015 491 7803
015 491 7803
Nova Agro
031 563 2925
031 563 2925
Dio Agric BK
012 653 6451
012 653 6452
Ocean Agriculture
011 662 1947
011 662 1515
011 463 6462
012 250 3898
012 250 3162
Ecoguard Distributors (Pty) Ltd
011 463 6057
Ortus Chemicals (Pty) Ltd
031 265 5008
012 348 8808
012 348 3500
Farmers Agri Care (Pty) Ltd
031 265 5000
Philagro SA Plaaskem
011 823 8000
011 826 7241
011 622 5947
011 622 5947
RT Chemicals
033 386 9384
033 386 1634
HBD Distributors & Crop Care
Sipcam SA
021 874 1055
021 874 1214
Laeveld Agrochem
082 554 7292
086 523 6008
Sunwood Chemicals
011 803 3393
011 803 3546
Midchem (Pty) Ltd
018 673 1508
018 673 1495
Syngenta South Africa
011 541 4000 / 40
011 541 4042
NatAgro
016 341 3001
016 341 3002
Total SA (Pty) Ltd
011 396 2913
011 396 2913
NexusAg
021 860 8046
021 871 1065
Novon Protecta
058 303 3785
058 303 3253
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Novon Retail Company
012 561 2945
012 561 2966
Novon WTP
018 632 3010
018 632 4475
Oosvaal Landbou cc
017 647 5850
017 647 6058
PW Landboudienste
021 862 1128
021 862 1129
Qwemico Distributors
012 348 0201
012 348 0204
Retouw Landbou Bk
042 284 0422
086 647 2797
Spoedwel Landbou (Edms) Bpk
012 250 0200
012 250 2731
Technichem Crop Protection
056 343 3444
056 343 2223
Terason
021 873 6177
021 873 0297
UAP Crop Care A Division of Plaaskem
021 872 2214
021 872 7058
Ububele Alfa Chemicals
056 213 1967
056 212 1080
Viking Marketing (Pty) Ltd
021 907 3000
021 905 7113
Vrystaat Oesbeskerming (Edms) Bpk
056 515 4404
056 515 1300
Wilgechem Vennootskap
058 813 1192/3
058 813 3023
9. Other companies COMPANY
CONTACT
Agriland
Tel: 012 362 1382
Agrofert
Tel: 011 791 1595/6
Agro-Hytech
Tel: 021 863 2884
All-Gro
Tel: 012 381 2916
Alrose
Tel: 011 892 0913
ASERA Agricultural Products
Tel: 012 205 1106/1779
Biogrow
Tel: 028 3132054
C-Dax
Tel: 011 970 3200
Coopers Environmental Science
Tel: 011 979 4246/7
Indoplast
Tel: 011 664 8852
Janssen Pharmaceutica
Tel: 011 652 0431
Nutrico SA
Tel: 011 822 2569
Orsmond Aerial Spray
Tel: 058 303 5261 www.orsmondaviation.co.za
Pharmacy & Upjohn
Tel: 011 320 6000
Plant Health Products
Tel: 033 266 6130
SABS- Pesticides Residue
Tel: 012 428 6446
Yieldguard
Tel: 011 790 8200
10. International business environment Visit the website of CropLife International for international news and perspectives: www.croplife.org.
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The international bodies involved in Plant Protection are:
Inputs
• International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) – www.ippc.int • Regional Plant Protection Organisations (RPPO) The Regional Plant Protection Organisations: APPPC – Asia And Pacific Plant Protection Commission CA – the Andean Community (South America), www.comunidadandina. org COSAVE – Bienvenidos al Comité de Sanidad Vegetal del Cono Sur (South American countries around Brazil), www.cosave.org CPPC – Caribbean Plant Protection Commission EPPO – European And Mediterranean Plant Protection Organisation, www.eppo.org IAPSC – Inter African Phytosanitary Council, www.au-appo.org/en/ NAPPO – North American Plant Protection Organisation, www.nappo. org OIRSA – Organismo Internacional Regional De Sanidad Agropecuaria (South American countries near the Panama canal: Mexico, Nicaragua, El Salvador etc), www.oirsa.org PPPO – Pacific Plant Protection Organisation, www.spc.int/pps/ The ARC-PPRI plays an important role in regional projects that support the objectives of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD). Researchers are also involved in International Projects and Expert Consultations. Two examples are given here: • Consultancy to advise the UN FAO/WHO Joint Meeting on Pesticide Specifications (JMPS): PPRI is a member of the Panel of experts and provides advice on an annual basis on the specifications of pesticides used internationally. PPRI is also a member of the Collaborative International Pesticides Analytical Council (CIPAC) which directly supports the JMPS (all countries). • Development of the African Arachnid Database (AFRAD): An expert on-line database (AFRAD) was initiated by the PPRI, which provides vitally important information about arachnids– a major component of agro-diversity, both as a major pest of crops and as beneficial predators in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programmes (countries south of the Sahara).
11. Small-scale farmer news The South African Pesticide Initiative Program (SA PIP) established a database of emerging farmers. There has been a growing need for such a facility as emerging farmers account for an ever-increasing percentage of agricultural exports. The database lists emerging horticultural export producers and those producing exportable fruit and vegetables, and who benefit from the Programme. The Programme helps to place emerging farmers in contact with the existing well organised commercial producer associations, namely the Citrus Growers Association, Deciduous Fruit Producers Trust and the Subtropical Fruit Producers Association (Subtrop). Poison Information Centres. For advice on cases of poisoning: 1. Tygerberg Poison Information Centre (Human Poisoning), 021 689 5227 2. Griffon Poison Information Centre (Wildlife Poison), 082 446 8946 Nashua pesticides Helpline 082 325 6223 Tim Snow
Find the “SA PIP” menu at www.ppecb.com
Our thanks to Tom Mabesa and Hettie Dickenson of AVCASA for their input.
Earthworms and vermicompost See also the Biological Farming, Organic Farming, Compost and Organic Fertiliser chapters
1. Overview Nobody really knows how many worm species there are (estimates range from 4500 to 6000!) but in agriculture and gardening three distinct genera have been studied and described. These worms are distinguished by their habitat in or on the soil. These genera do not interbreed and will not normally be found in each others habitat. The three genera are: • Worms that are found on the surface under damp, decaying organic matter. These are termed epigeic with Eisinia fetida being the main species used in South Africa. This worm will NOT be found in the soil as it lacks the means to move through the soil. • Worms (termed anecic) that are found from the surface of the soil to a depth of roughly 1 meter. These worms forage for their food by coming to the surface and dragging damp decaying organic matter down into their burrows. These worms are extremely beneficial as they ‘churn’ the soil and allow good water and air penetration. The more of these species in the soil the better the soil. Lumbricus terrestris is very common in South Africa. • A third type of worm (termed endogeic) can be found very deep in the soil and very seldom come to the surface. This type is the only one of the three that actually eats soil as part of its diet. This species plays a small part in the total soil environment. As soon as any living thing dies – whether it be animal or vegetable – a host of saprophytic micro-organisms (that feed on dead organic material) such as bacteria, fungi, moulds, nematodes, actinomycetes, small arthropods (beetles etc.) begin to devour it. Earthworms then graze on the microorganisms as feedstock. Obviously some of the decaying matter is also ingested but the main food is, as stated, micro-organisms. The worm then digests the micro-organisms and excretes faeces that are full of plant nutrients and, strange as it may seem, also contains a vast multitude of micro-organisms. This worm faeces is the best compost known to man. In vermiculture, Eisinia fetida (epegeic) worms are kept in captivity and fed decaying organic material. The worm faeces are collected and used as compost. Many different types of enclosure can be found – ranging from a small box for a household to extremely large concrete pens for large-scale farming. Decaying organic material can be literally anything that was once alive but is now dead: all vegetable matter, paper and cardboard, sawdust, animal manures (with the possible exception of cat litter that can contain pathogens – organisms that can be infectious), rice and pastas etc. When vermicompost is spread on the soil surface, the millions of microorganisms present become food for any anecic worms in the vicinity. With a plentiful food supply, the anecic worms proliferate and help to keep the soil friable and productive. The life and death activities of the micro-organisms in the soil release continuous plant nutrients. Both solid composts and compost teas can be produced by vermiculture. Soils treated with vermicompost can contain 5 times more nitrates (i.e. immediately-available nitrogen), 7 times more phosphorus, 11 times more potassium, 2.5 times more magnesium and twice as much calcium as soils non-treated soils. Source: Ronald Thomson. He can be contacted at 082 563 1476 or by w riting to
[email protected]
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2. Roleplayers
3. Websites and publications
Barbara’s Worms Tel: 082 338 4109
[email protected]
Planner Bee Plant Care Carmen Nottingham Tel / Fax: 011 888 4215 Cell: 083 255 5828 Supplier of worms and the tyrebin
[email protected] wormery for the Cape Town area www.fertilis.co.za and surrounds “FERTILIS” earthworm castings Earthworm Interest Group (fertiliser made from feeding South Africa (EIGSA) dairy cow manure to earthworms Ken Reid - Eisenia foetida). This product Tel: 011 792 3478 (registration no B3664 Act36/1947)
[email protected] is certified by the Organic Food Federation UK: organic certification Find details of regional convenors no: 00371/01/00. (countrywide) at www.eigsa.co.za. EIGSA hosts talks and workshops. Fertilis earthworm castings is used Contact Allison at 083 791 1198 as a fertiliser for ALL soils and or email earthwormer@absamail. plants, lawns, vegetables and crops, co.za for details. ornamentals and pot plants. There is no smell, it does not burn, and EarthwormsSA is very rich in nutrients for plants Cell: 083 650 9883 and soil. Spread rate is 250ml per www.earthwormssa.co.za square metre. FullCycle Tel: 021 789 2922 www.fullcycle.co.za
FERTILIS also makes wonderful Compost Tea for plant irrigation.
SA Biofarm Committed to “reducing waste Tel: 012 333 4222 through innovative products and www.sabiofarm.co.za services” which includes Can-oworms. Talborne Organics Tel: 011 954 5763 Hermanus Worms www.talborne.co.za Ronald “Jock” Thomson Tel: 082 563 1476 Vita and Eco Certified organic
[email protected] fertilisers; fertilis earthworm castings (humus) Ronald has been involved with worm farming for years. He lectures The Worm Lady and writes on vermicomposting Tel: 011 465 2933 extensively.
[email protected] Natal Museum Dr Danuta Plisko Tel: 033 345 1404
[email protected] [email protected] Dr Plisko is an earthworm researcher who has found that in KZN there are very few indigenous earthworms, but vast numbers of the more aggressive exotics from North America, Asia, Europe etc. It seems that when the early settlers imported plants growing in soil, they also imported the worms from the country of origin!
Wizzard Worms Don Blacklaw Tel: 033 413 1837 / 072 102 1636
[email protected] [email protected] www.wizzardworms.co.za
www.eigsa.co.za – website of the Earthworm Interest Group of South Africa www.fertilis.co.za – website of Planner Bee Plant Care, a company “deploying a growing network of worm farms to produce natural, organic, highly-nutritious, life-producing and safe fertilizer” Materials available from Planner Bee Plant Care: • SA Organic Grower: a 31 booklet set (an ideal reference manual for SA) • The Earthmill System for Organic Market Gardens: a must-have book for people wishing to earn a living growing veggies organically. • Permaculture articles in booklet form. Contact them at 011 888 4215 / 083 255 5828, fax 011 888 4215 or write to
[email protected]. www.wizzardworms.co.za – Wizzard Worms, based in KwaZulu-Natal, is a company with “extensive experience in vermiculture and the design and sale of womeries”. Visit the other websites mentioned in this chapter e.g. www.fullcycle.co.za, www.earthwormssa.co.za.
4. Local business environment The use of earthworms to improve farming practices, to assist farmers who wish to produce organically or to reduce fertiliser costs, has become established in many parts of the world. Australia in the developed world and India in the developing world are prime examples. As mentioned earlier, in nature the earthworm converts the wastes of nature into food, growth stimulants and microbes all beneficial to plant growth and survival. We may take advantage of this process by concentrating the waste and the earthworms, and then by applying the resultant products directly to specific areas or plants. • Wasted Waste. Every day tons of organic waste goes to landfill sites all over the continent. This organic matter, often at source, could be converted with the help of the humble earthworm into plant food. • Farm Waste. Most farmers have some form of organic material that goes to waste, cattle, horse, pig manure, reject vegetables just to mention a few. All are suitable for conversion. • Process. The waste should be trenched directly into the soil and layered with other specific waste material and worms then introduced. Planting can take place almost immediately and the soil remains in good shape for some time depending on the depth and quantity of organic material used.
Wizzard Worms is a breeder, and countrywide distributor of worms, wormerys and information.
Alternatively a Wormery Unit could be established in which earthworms are fed organic waste and the resultant liquid and casts harvested and applied directly to crops. Neither method is expensive.
Worms for Africa Les Kingma Tel: 041 468 0945
[email protected]
Once established, these simple methodologies aid food production and expenses are offset by savings on fertiliser, transport and landfill costs. And just as important – this would result in regenerating depleted soils, thus working towards restoring a healthy environment. There is a challenge to farmers to recycle their wastes to reduce fertilizer costs and reduce methane emission. For further information contact Don Blacklaw, Tel: 033 4131837 or 072 102 1636, donblacklaw @greytow n.co.za. His w ebsite is w w w.w izzardw orms.co.za
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Inputs Fencing 1. Overview When we began this project, one roleplayer asked why fencing was simply one chapter and not a whole section in this directory. After all, he objected, fences are used for livestock, for marking off fields for pastures or crops, for security – and the list went on. While the chapter remains one component of this section, we take his point. Fencing is crucial to the orderly running of a farming enterprise, to a sense of well-being and identity.
2. Associations involved Both the Gate and Fence Association and South African Wire Association (SAWA) are housed within the Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of South Africa (SEIFSA). Contact these associations at 011 298 9400, or visit www.sawa.co.za and www.seifsa. co.za. The South African Iron and Steel Institute Tel: 012 307 8250 www.saisi.co.za
International Zinc Association of Southern Africa Tel: 083 456 4989 www.izasa.org
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF The Fencing Act No 31 of 1963 is of importance here. This Act’s objective is to consolidate the laws relating to fences, the fencing of farms (and other holdings), and related matters e.g. access to land by authorised persons for certain purposes (officials from ESKOM, Telkom etc). Included amongst the Provisions: • leaving gates open (by whom and what actions to be taken); • climbing or crawling over or through fences without permission (actions farmers can take); • wilful damaging or removal of fences (action farmers can take); • climbing or crawling over or through, and damaging or removing fences authorised in connection with destruction of vermin (actions farmers can take); • unintentional damaging of fencing (actions farmers can take); • notice to absentee owner; • repair of boundary fences; • alteration of boundary fences; • areas where contributions to the erection of boundary fences are obligatory. It is an important piece of legislation for all landowners or people leasing land. Although this Act has been on the books for a long time, it is still very crucial for farmers and especially for new entrants when aspects of fences between properties, the maintenance, damaging, the erecting and upkeep of fences or the actions of people passing through fences are concerned. Special attention must be given in the cases where owners of common fences – that is between properties – must contribute towards the cost of erecting those fences. When in doubt as to the provisions of this Act, contact with the Authorities is of vital importance. Contact Legal Services at the Department of Agriculture for more information – call 012 319 7329 or fax 012 325 7391. Magistrates, the office of Extension Officers and Attorneys will also be able to assist.
4. Companies involved Amatola Tel: 043 732 1927 Fax: 043 732 1753
H & N Fencing Tel: 013 935 7221
Big Five Gate & Fence Manufacturing and construction Tel: 053 832 1101 Fax: 053 832 1101
MEPS Electric Fence Systems H/o Tel: 082 459 3743 Cell: 083 600 1166 Tel: 013 751 2945 www.meps.co.za
Bonnox (Pty) Ltd Tel: 012 666 8717 www.bonnox.co.za
Nemtek Tel: 011 462 8283. www.nemtek.com
Cape Gate Tel: 021 937 7123 www.capegate.co.za
Rhino Fencing CC Tel: 011 708 7920 / 1 / 2 www.rhinofencing.co.za
Chemvet Tel: 011 437 9000 www.chemvet.co.za
Sinoville Fencing Tel: 012 542 4780/ 1/ 2 www.sinovillefencing.co.za
Consolidated Wire Indistries Tel: 016 980 3179 www.cwi-wire.co.za
Razor wire security products
Fencing Centre Tel: 011 398 2700
South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) Tel: 012 428 7116 www.sabs.co.za
Gallagher Power Fence (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 397 2986
There are two standards for galvanised wire: SANS 675 and SANS 935.
Gripple www.gripple.com
Steeledale Mesh Tel: 011 401 6300
G Harrop-Allin & Sons (Pty) Limited Tel: 012 803 5175
TNH Wildlife Tel: 082 890 9993 / 083 610 2532 www.tnhfencing.com
5. Training and research Agricultural Colleges like Elsenburg run courses in erecting and maintaining fences. See the Agricultural Education and Training chapter. ARC-Institute for Agricultural Engineering Tel: 012 842 4000 www.arc.agric.za The Endangered Wildlife Trust, in conjunction with the University of the Witwatersrand commissioned a study to assess the impact of electric fences on small animals in South Africa. The findings of the Electric Fence Associated Mortality in South Africa Project can be found on www.ewt. org.za.
6. Websites and publications Call 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for the publications Plaasheinings and Farm fences, available from the ARC in Silverton. Visit the websites of roleplayers e.g. www.capegate.co.za and www.sawa. co.za
7. International business environment • Virtually all countries produce wire fencing, the largest economies produce the most fencing. South Africa manufacturers export galvanised wire from which fencing is made. • Wire Association International – www.wirenet.org • International Zinc Association – www.iza.com
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8. New farmer information
Dropper fence
Electric fencing
They are nothing new. Nothing beats the old-fashioned dropper fence when it comes to keeping animals – cattle, sheep, horses – in a contained area. The escalation in animal theft in South Africa has necessitated keeping your farm animals in areas where you can either keep an eye on them or where, at the very least, you know where they are. The dropper fence does not look like much, but it serves its duty with distinction. They are easy to make:
• Conventional fences are not always impenetrable but with the help of electric fencing, the ultimate purpose of a fence can be reached. Electric fencing can serve several purposes, namely animal control or security. An electric fence energiser converts mains or battery power into a high voltage pulse. The energiser releases this pulse through an insulated wire onto the fence line approximately once every second. The pulse is commonly referred to as the shock which is felt when an animal or intruder makes contact with the fence. • In agricultural / game fencing, it is the shock that deters the animal from putting further pressure on the fence line. The pain from the shock received is short lived and does not physically damage the animal, unlike barbed wire, which can cause severe cuts and permanent damage. In cases where livestock are forced through an electric fence due to veldt fires or wild animals, the risk of injury is much lower than in the case of barbed wire fences. • From a security point-of-view, electric fencing not only offers the possibility of deterring, but also of detecting and alarming / monitoring. An electric fence acts as a 24-hour patrolman, patrolling your entire perimeter every second. An electric fence, being a barrier on the perimeter of what you are protecting, offers extended reaction time as opposed to conventional security systems only alarming once the intruder enters or attempts to enter your home. Conventional fencing It is essential to have good fences for your stock. If you are working with sheep or goats, it can be expensive to put up fences that are capable of keeping them in. Wire mesh is certainly the most effective type of fencing, because it not only stops newborn lambs and kids from getting out, but it also stops most predators from getting in. A cheaper alternative is to put up a wire fence about 1,2m high with 7 or 8 strands of wire. The top strand and maybe one or two others can be of barbed wire, but smooth steel wire is preferable for the other strands, as long as they are kept taut.
• roll the galvanised wire or, even better, barbed wire in 3 rows to the length that you need; • use a piece of discarded wood as marker to ensure that the distances between the droppers are the same; • use nails or wire staples to attach each pole to the 3 lengths of wire; • roll the wires and droppers up into a manageable roll; • plant sturdy fence poles at a reasonable distance from each other; • unroll the pre-made fence, and make sue that all the droppers are tightly secured to the 3 rows of wires; • rest the fence against the pre-planted fence poles, and attach one end to a corner pole with wire staples securely hammered into the pole; • pull the fence tight from the corner pole to the next planted pole, and secure with nails or wire staples; • follow the fence, and make sure that all superfluous pieces of wire are removed so that your animals won’t be injured. The great advantage of these fences is that they can easily be moved to where new grazing awaits your livestock. Moving them is as easy as rolling them up and unrolling them in the new location. These fences save you the cost of erecting permanent fences that can be extremely expensive. Just remember – they may keep your animals in, but they will definitely not keep predators out. Source: Nemtek
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Inputs Fertigation 1. Overview Fertilisation is the feeding of plants, while Fertigation is the feeding of plants by means of first dissolving the nutrients in the irrigation water. Hence the name “Fertigation” which is a combination of the two words “Fertilisation” and “Irrigation”.
2. Roleplayers ARC-Institute for Tropical and Subtropical Crops Andre Botha Tel: 013 753 7141
Plaaskem Tel: 011 823 8019
[email protected]
The Plaaskem feed range (go to www.plaaskem.co.za) consists of high quality NPK + chelated microelement products with various NPK ratios for various functions. Fertiplant, a subsidiary of Plaaskem, Email
[email protected] for is situated at Modderfontein and the publications called simply has the capability to produce Fertigation. It is also available in any NPK mix required. Chelated Afrikaans. microelements are easily absorbed, whereas many in the DoseTech salt form are not. Plaaskem uses Tel: 021 511 0840 Ciba chelates in their feed mixes. www.dosetech.co.za RT Chemicals Liquid dosing technology Tel: 033 386 9384 www.rtchemicals.co.za Fertigation Academy Tel: 082 808 1100 RT Chemicals Fertigation Range
[email protected] consists of Calcium Shuttle, Top NPK and Top Cal using the Fertigation Academy is located to unique “shuttle” translocation the east of Rustenburg on a farm. mechanism, as well as Sodium Workshop centres have also been Molybdate, Humates and Fulvates. established in the Western and Eastern Cape – and in Sudan, Senter 360 Zambia, Egypt and Zimbabwe. Tel: 018 469 1331 / 082 564 5955 www.senter360.co.za Futureneering Mark Visser Yara Specialities Tel: 011 673 2751 Tel: 021 913 3751
[email protected] www.yara.com ARC-Institute for Agricultural Engineering Tel: 012 842 4000 www.arc.agric.za
South African design, manufacture Yara has a wide range of fertigation and installation of simple, cost and liquid fertilisers to meet any effective fertigation systems. cropping situation. Our full range of essential nutrients can be used in Hanna Instruments drip irrigation, sprinkler systems or Tel: 011 615 6076 pivot agriculture. www.hannainst.co.za Our fertigation products include Suppliers of equipment and high quality calcium nitrate, chemicals. Stockers of the potassium nitrate and a full range Agricare Fertigation System, a of micronutrient chelates. microprocessor based system with powerful, flexible and user-friendly programming features. Omnia Specialities Nico Smit Tel: 011 709 8778 www.omnia.co.za Consult the fertiliser and irrigation chapters for more roleplayers.
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Inputs Fertiliser See also the Soils, Compost and Organic Fertilisers, and Earthworms and Vermicompost chapters
1. Overview Fertilisation is a method of improving the nutritional status of the soils, and can be tailored to provide the correct nutritional requirements at the most appropriate time. African farmers use very little or no fertilisers; on average African farmers use 8-10 kg/ha of nutrients which is only 10% of the world average. This process of more nutrients being removed from the soil annually mainly through harvesting of crops than are being returned to the soil through the use of fertilisers has resulted in severe soil nutrient mining in Africa. The African Union/NEPAD convened the Africa Fertiliser Summit in Abuja, Nigeria, in June 2006. The key outcome was the 12-point Summit resolution, “Abuja Declaration on Fertiliser for an African Green Revolution,” which African leaders unanimously endorsed. Through its programme for the revitalisation of the agricultural sector in Africa – the Comprehensive Africa Agricultural Development Programme (CAADP) – NEPAD has set a target of 6% annual average growth rate in agriculture at the national level by 2015. In order to stimulate the increase in productivity necessary to achieve this target, farmers in Africa will have to use substantial amounts of fertilisers (both organic and inorganic) to increase yields. Source: Dr Maria Wanzala, International Fertiliser Development C entre advisor to Nepad A griculture (adapted)
2. Associations involved Fertilizer Society of South Africa (FSSA) Tel: 012 349 1450 Fax: 012 349 1463
[email protected] or
[email protected] www.fssa.org.za The FSSA, a non-profit Article 21 company, represents the interests of the fertiliser and aglime industries in South Africa. The FSSA: • actively promotes the agro-economic and environmentally accountable fertiliser and aglime practices; • develops a positive public awareness and acceptance of the need for fertiliser and aglime use in food production; • improves the operating environment within which its constituent industries operate in a spirit of free enterprise and fair trade; • assimilates, adds value to and disseminates fertiliser and aglime related information; • provides a discussion forum for its members and other parties on all aspects relating to fertiliser and aglime distribution, agronomic advice and product quality. National Plant Food / Organic Fertiliser Association of SA Tel: 031 782 3105
[email protected] International Zinc Association of Southern Africa (IZASA) Tel: 083 456 4989 www.izasa.org
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Directorate: Food Safety and Quality Assurance Tel: 012 319 7303 / 6 Find “Feeds, Stock Remedies, Pesticides and Fertilzers” under the Divisions menu option at www.daff.gov.za
Fertilisers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies And Stock Remedies Act, 1947 (Act No. 36 of 1947) Objectives This Act provides for: • the appointment of a Registrar of Fertilisers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies; • the registration of fertilisers, farm feeds, agricultural remedies, stock remedies, sterilising plants and pest control operators; • to regulate or prohibit the importation, sale, acquisition, disposal or use of fertilisers, farm feeds, agricultural remedies and stock remedies; • the designation of technical advisers and analysts. Main provisions Control over the registration of fertilisers, farm feeds, agricultural remedies, stock remedies, sterilising plants and pest control operators; to regulate or prohibit the importation, sale, acquisition or disposal of these inputs. This Act applies where a person imports, sells, acquires or disposes the mentioned articles. It is therefore advisable to be aware of these requirements. Always buy from reputable suppliers.
4. Training and research • A fertiliser advisors’ training course, administered by the FSSA, is aimed at improving the skills of fertiliser advisors. Candidates are drawn from private sector, government, agri-business and co-operatives in South Africa and from neighbouring countries. Contact Gisela Deysel by calling 076 672 3793; by faxing 086-667 9318 or by emailing
[email protected]. • AGFACTS collects, analyses and presents retail sales information on the South African fertiliser and agricultural lime industries on behalf of the Fertiliser Society of South Africa. www.agfacts.co.za • The Department of Soil, Crop and Climate Sciences at the University of the Free State. Call 051 401 2212. • Fertiliser companies conduct in-house training and research within their own Research and Development departments. • The Agricultural Research Council institutes periodically do fertiliser-related research.
5. Websites and publications The following publications are available from the FSSA: • Fertilizer Handbook (also available in Afrikaans). This is a hard cover handbook that has primarily been written for the use of persons who are involved in some way or another in a fertiliser advisory capacity. It is not intended to be a complete technical handbook, but rather a concise presentation covering a wide range of topics. For this reason, interested farmers and students will also find it to be a useful guide. It is prescribed as part of the agricultural curriculum at some universities and universities of technology in South Africa. • Deficiency Symptoms in Maize. A4-size colour pamphlet depicting the deficiency symptoms in maize. • Plantfood & Fertilizers. Illustrated publications for the emerging farmer. A4-size, in ring-binder format. • Soil Acidity and Agricultural Lime (also available in Afrikaans). This brochure contains the two chapter “Soil acidity” and “Agricultural lime” which appear in the Fertilizer Handbook. This brochure is intended as a general guide for agronomists and farmers alike who have a common purpose in sound liming • Soil Fertility. Illustrated publications for the emerging farmer. A4-size, in ring-binder format.
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295
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• FSSA Journal – a publication containing the proceedings of the FSSA annual congress • The Proceedings of previous Symposiums Visit www.kejafa.co.za or call 014 577 0005 for the following publications: • • • •
Bemesting Fertilizer Sea Energy Agriculture Fertility from the ocean deep Fertilizer Handbook
Find the Info Paks on www.daff.gov.za (take the publications menu) that deal with soil. These include Soil: acid soil and lime and Soil: application of lime.
View the following websites: • www.agindustries.org.uk – Agricultural Industries Confederation (UK) • www.efma.org – European Fertiliser Manufacturers • www.ifdc.org – International Fertiliser Development Centre • www.fertilizer.org – International Fertiliser Association • www.ipipotash.org – International Potash Institute • www.ppi-ppic.org – Potash & Phosphate Institute • www.fertiliser-society.org – The International Fertiliser Society • www.sulphurinstitute.org – The Sulphur Institute • www.AfricaFertilizer.org (see notes under heading 1)
6. Mineral fertilisers Agricol Tel: 021 981 1126 www.agricol.co.za Agrofert Tel: 011 791 1595 Agriman (Pty) Ltd Tel: 012 997 2365 Clariant Southern Africa Tel: 011 471 7220 www.clariant.com Suppliers of fertiliser additives Dynatrade SA Tel: 011 764 5416 Fertplan
[email protected] www.fertplan.co.za Foskor (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 347 0600 / 015 789 2000 Tel: 035 902 3111 www.foskor.co.za
NWK Ltd Tel: 018 633 1000 Fax: 018 633 1900 www.nwk.co.za Ocean Agriculture Tel: 011 662 1947 www.oceanag.co.za Omnia Nutriology Tel: 011 709 8888 www.omnia.co.za With an ever-expanding base of new technologies and specialist application expertise, Omnia’s agricultural businesses are at the forefront of the growing specialism in farming. The Specialities product range is being exported to 18 countries including Australia and various South American countries.
PBD Plaaslike Boeredienste Tel: 016 986 0691 Producers of enriched rock www.pbd.co.za phosphate, phosphoric acid, Fertiliser blender and agricultural sulphuric acid, MAP and DAP. lime producer Greenlands Fertiliser Profert Tel: 016 986 0130 Tel: 018 293 3530 www.greenlandskunsmis.co.za www.profert.co.za Fertiliser blender With ever increasing input costs, Mgwali Commodities (Pty) Ltd South African producers are finding it increasingly difficult to generate a Tel: 011 315 7977 Ext 219 profit, and ensure sustainability. Fax: 086 552 9221/011 3158 838 Fertiliser trader Miochem International Tel: 031 777 1245 Trader in DAP and MAP
Black Urea™, the new ground breaking fertiliser from Profert is about to make a difference to producers livelihoods.
Sanvet Tel: 011 397 2387
those incorporating growth and quality enhancing nutrients, like calcium and magnesium, to Sasol Nitro micronutrients that help prevent Tel: 0800 11 22 70 or cure deficiencies resulting from www.sasol.com particular soil or crop conditions. Yara’s NPK products have Plants are all ISO 9001 (quality consistent size and mass, which management system) and ISO 14 makes accurate spreading easier. 000 (environment management systems) accredited. Zinchem Tel: 011 746 5000 / 58 Sasol Nitro is a division of Sasol Fax: 011 421 2235 Chemical Industries which is a www.agriculturefertilizer.co.za major company in Sasol’s family of www.zinchem.co.za businesses. “Fertilizer for the Farm” Yara South Africa (Pty) Ltd Yara Specialities Crops are generally low in Zinc Tel: 021 913 3751 / 862 6617 particularly when grown on Zinc www.yara.com deficient soils. Close to 50% of the world cereal soils are deficient Yara is the world’s leading producer in Zinc and it is estimated that one and marketer of mineral fertilisers third of the world’s population is at that are being supplied to markets risk of Zinc deficiency which can lead around the globe to provide to health problems including poor growers with essential plant immune response and impaired nutrients required for sustainable growth and development. food production. Zinchem, a registered ISO Our fertilisers range from those 9001:2000 company, is a leading based on the most widely needed supplier of Zinc products to nutrients, N, P and K, through agriculture in Southern Africa.
7. Organic fertilisers See the Compost and Organic Fertilisers, and Earthworms and Vermicompost chapters
8. Agricultural lime and other roleplayers Aglime information can be found on the Fertilizer Society of South Africa’s website – www.fssa.org.za
Grasland Ondernemings Tel: 018 632 6046 Agricultural lime producer DFM Software Tel: 021 904 1154 www.dfmsoftware.co.za
Landbou Kalk Tel: 012 342 1075
[email protected] NviroTek Labs Tel: 012 252 7588 www.nviroteklabs.co.za
Independent analysis of soil, water, Software to identify fertiliser needs plants, fertiliser, lime and feed and effectiveness P&B Lime Works Electrolee Tel: 028 424 1157 Tel: 012 347 9933 www.pandblime.co.za www.electrolee.co.za Plaaslike Boeredienste (Pty) Ltd Optimise your fertilising practices Tel: 016 986 0691 www.pbd.co.za H Pistorius & Company Tel: 012 342 1075 Manufacturers of agricultural lime www.kalk.co.za SA Lime & Gypsum Kalkor (Pty) Ltd Tel: 021 914 5330 Tel: 011 721 3141 www.sakg.co.za
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9. International business environment The president’s Report on www.fssa.org.za covers the international fertiliser market, the world economy and Sub-Saharan Africa matters. Find also the “Statistics” menu option, which includes International Price Trends of Some fertilisers and Raw Materials.
The South African industry’s margins are determined largely by world market prices of major raw materials, while domestic prices are primarily driven by import parity cost of commonly traded fertiliser commodities. Although Africa comprises 58 countries, fertiliser consumption is mostly restricted to 10 countries, and nitrogen and phosphate fertiliser production capacity exists in only 8 countries. The main fertiliser consumers include Egypt (30%), South Africa (23%) and Morocco (9%). Total fertiliser consumption in sub-Saharan countries is approximately 1% of the world fertiliser consumption. African farmers produce 7 kg of maize per kilogram of N fertiliser nutrients, while farmers in North America produce five times as much with the same application. Such productivity differences constitute a major constraint for African agriculture in an increasingly competitive global market. The most appropriate strategy for most African countries is one of agricultural output growth through intensification rather than land expansion into fragile and high-risk environments.
10. Local business environment The President’s Report on www.fssa.org.za covers domestic fertiliser and agricultural lime markets, and local industry matters. Find also the “statistics” menu option.
In South Africa the maize industry consumes almost 40% of all fertilisers and the market, therefore, is much influenced by what happens to this industry. Table 1: FERTILISER CONSUMPTION IN SOUTH AFRICA (Metric Tonnes) Year
Physical
N
P
K
Total
Conc
1999*
2051521
413045
99196
113021
625262
30.5
2000*
2011701
415933
81602
114022
611557
30.4
2001*
1948278
395813
90842
105013
591668
30.4
2002*
2301043
481759
100898
135439
718096
31.2
2003*
2020100
420827
87593
106641
615061
30.4
2004*
2137054
427571
99440
121490
648501
30.3
2005*
1654996
3472601
69587
96995
513842
31.0
2006*
2 072 877
428 719
88 913
126 963
644 595
31.1
2007*
2 013 708
439 480
83 996
113 634
637 110
31.6
2008
1 862 487
424 123
80 728
92 487
597 338
32.1
* Including estimated non-member imports Source: FSSA
11. Fertiliser: an introduction The soil provides most of the nutrients needed by plants, and shortages can be overcome by using carefully chosen fertilisers. It would be wasteful to apply a nutrient if your soil already has sufficient. In general, macro elements such as nitrogen (N), phosphate (P) and potassium (K) are the nutrients most likely added to the soil. There are 13 elements which plants take from the soil. Nitrogen (N), potassium (P) and phosphorus (K) are used in relatively large amounts. Sulphur (S), calcium (Ca), carbon (C) and magnesium (Mg) are also often required. Zinc (Zn), Iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), Boron (B), copper (Cu) and Molybdenum (Mo) are other elements. “Straight” and “multi-nutrient” fertilisers Fertilisers are either “straight” or “multi-nutrient”. Straight fertilisers are products containing one of the main plant nutrients. Some examples are given below: Plant nutrient
Fertiliser
Nitrogen (N)
Ureacalcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) Limestone ammonium nitrate (LAN )
Phosphate (P)
Single superphosphate (SSP) Triple superphosphate (TSP)
Potassium (K)
Muriate of potash (MOP)
Multi-nutrient fertilisers contain more than one of the main plant nutrients. There are figures (numbers) printed on a fertiliser bag which will give you the ratios of plant nutrients of that fertiliser. They always follow the same sequence. The first number is the ratio of N, the second is the ratio of P, and the third refers to the ratio of K. For example, 3.2.4. (30) means that the fertiliser contains 10% of N, 6.615% of P and 13% of K. These ratios are worked out by dividing the figure given in the ration by 9, and then multiplying it by 30.
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Breakdown of benefits for NPK: • Applying Nitrogen (N) improves overall crop quality and increases the number of branches, leaves, seeds and fruits. N accelerates the number of plant cells in the plant. • Adding Phosphate (P) to the soil leads to better root development, and helps plants ripen early and mature quickly. Together with Magnesium (Mg) it supplies energy for physiological processes. • The addition of Potassium (K) to the soil improves crop yields and quality, strengthens plants and increases resistance to disease and drought. It fulfils a major role in transfer of other elements as well as the control of stomata (Regulating the flow of water inside plants). P and K are shortened forms: P = P2O5 x 0.44 and K = K2O x 0.83 Although NPK volumes are the highest, it is of utmost importance to emphasize the necessity of all other elements too. Magnesium (Mg) is the most important element in chlorofil, the pivot in photosynthesis.Calcium (Ca) forms the ‘building blocks’ in plant cells which ensure firmness, shelf life and quality produce. Sulphur (S) is essential for uptake of Nitrogen (N) and responsible for flavour attributes in crops such as onions and garlic. What is the effect of water on fertiliser in the soil? Water dissolves the fertiliser. The nutrients are carried by the soil water to the roots of the plant. If there is not enough water in the soil, the nutrients cannot reach the roots of the plant, nor can they be absorbed by the plant.
different application to sandy soil. Utilise soil, plant and water analysis to optimise the best recommendation for that crop. Consult an advisor with the necessary credentials. What is the time to apply fertiliser? If fertiliser is applied at the wrong time, the yields will be lower and the farmer will make less money. The “basal” dressing should generally be applied at planting, and the “top” dressing should usually be completed before the plant flowers. Consult your extension officer for precise information regarding crops in your area. (The above information is taken from the Fertiliser Retailing Guide, put out by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, the Fertiliser Industry Advisory Committee, Omnia and Yara Specialities).
Can a farmer apply too much fertiliser? Excessive fertiliser use can damage crops and reduce yields. It contributes to pollution of soil and ground water. It damages the overall image of agriculture’s contribution to best management programmes (BMP) and sustaining the environment.
The ‘Law of the minimum’ illustrated by barrel staves of varying lengths representing growth-controlling factors. This is also known as Liebig’s law. The barrel story illustrates that success will be limited / handicapped by that element which is deficient. If only one element lacks in availability or been inadequite in supply one will not achieve optimum results. Therefore one promotes a comprehensive nutrient programme or “balanced diet” for that matter.
How do I know how much fertiliser to apply? This depends on soil and crop. Clay soil, for example, requires a totally
Source: Yara Specialities
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12. Best Fertiliser Practice
Inputs
Fertiliser need Over fertilising or under fertilising will affect your profit – too much will increase your costs and be bad for the environment; not putting enough fertiliser on will decrease the yield and thus your income. Two factors will assist you: • A soil analysis is crucial. Take a soil sample, representative of the field (don’t just take the sample from one place). The interpretation of the analysis must be soil and crop specific. • Determine the target yield.
Liming Liming must by no means be neglected. Too much acid in the soil: • • • •
decreases the availability of phosphorus inhibits the efficient uptake and use of both water and fertiliser renders applied herbicides insufficient suppresses the effectivity of micro-organisms in the soil
Under highly acidic conditions it can, from an economic point of view, even be more beneficial to lime instead of increasing the fertiliser application rate.
Biological life The biological life in the soil was neglected in the past. The value of microorganisms in soil mustn’t be underestimated. The positive influence of a well balanced, healthy micro-organism population on the availability of plant nutrients has been well proven. Experts are available to advise farmers accordingly. Do not neglect the biological life in the soil. A healthy micro-organism population make more plant nutrients available – a great benefit. Experts are available to advise you. Product choice Compare the pros and cons of the different products. More concentrated products can reduce costs (there is less to transport), but in general do not contain the same amount of secondary elements.
Application Although band placement of fertiliser is generally the most effective, there is a place and time for broadcast application and foliar sprays. The method of fertiliser application has a definite effect on fertiliser efficiency.
Precision farming This ensures that the whole field is fertilised according to the soil analysis and expected yield. Money is saved, yields are increased and risk is reduced.
Water use Determine the water content of every field. If there is not enough, then plant less or don’t plant at all. Effective weed control is important since water and plant nutrients are consumed by weeds. Effective soil cultivation allows more water (and fertiliser) to infiltrate the soil.
Plant sap analysis Taking regular plant sap samples will help you to address nutrient deficiencies in time. They will also prevent unnecessary fertiliser being applied. Source: adapted from the article “Best Fertilizer Practices” w hich appeared in Volume 14 of The FarmA frica
Our thanks to the FSSA for providing feedback on the draft chapter
Fleet maintenance and spare parts 1. Overview • The correct servicing and maintenance of agricultural machinery is vital, considering the conditions under which they operate. • Keep up to date with the latest developments and new implements and new technology. More bearings fail from over greasing than under greasing. • Keep work shops clean and dust free. • Remove chain from implements during off-season and lubricate. Source: Bearings International
2. Associations involved Diesel and Gas Engine Association of Southern Africa (DAGEASA) Tel: 011 453 7249
3. Companies involved Your local agribusiness / co-operative e.g. AFRGI, GWK, Kaap Agri, Suidwes, OVK etc.
ADEPART – see Barloworld Power Perkins Afintapart Tel: 011 823 5880 www.afintapart.co.za
Bearings International Tel: 011 345 8000/7 24 Hour Hotline 083 250 9191 www.bearings.co.za Bearing Services Tel: 013 246 1463
“Quality parts, quality service”. Branches in Cape Town, East Bepco Tractor Parts London, Port Elizabeth, Pretoria Tel: 011 397 0760 and Durban. Bolt & Engineering Agrinet Distributors Tel: 011 657 2000 Tel: 018 469 4218 / 9 www.agrinet.co.za www.bolteng.co.za Registered members of participating BPW Axles co-ops or companies are able to Tel: 011 681 3300 order directly from the Agrinet www.bpw.co.za catalogue. Burquip International (Pty) Ltd Tel: 031 792 1020 Automotive Equipment www.burquip.co.za International (AEI) Tel: 011 474.7480 Manufacturers & distributors of www.aei.co.za agricultural and high speed axles and accessories Barloworld Power Perkins Tel: 011 898 0450 Cargo Crankshaft Rebuilding www.bwep.co.za Tel: 011 873 6685 “With Perkins an engine of choice amongst some 600 Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) serving sub-Saharan Africa, we offer strong cross-border product support in conjunction with our Barloworld Equipment Support Network in Angola, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia”.
Life long bearings and bushes Components for Africa Tel: 011 953 4580/1 www.componentsforafrica.com Craft Hydraulic Services Tel: 057 355 2215 Tel: 011 615 6047
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Discount Used Tractor Parts Tel: 013 665 5070
Guestro Automotive Tel: 041 408 6111 / 821 9616
Donaldson Filtration Systems (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 997 6000 www.donaldson.co.za
Brake drums and discs
Donaldson is the industry leader in ambient air-, fuel-, lube, compressed air- and gas turbine filtration. Air/oil separators, mist eliminators, industrial hydraulics, bulk fuel filtration, accessories, bag filters, service and turnkey projects. Dozer Parts Tel: 011 452 1224 www.dozer.co.za Caterpillar parts etc.
Clutches, clutch facings, drums, brake linings – Eight branches countrywide. H & H Gear Rebuilders Tel: 011 823 5058 Cell: 082 482 1128 Heads Tractor Tel: 012 379 8881
components,
Replacement parts for Massey spare Ferguson Hydracor Hydraulics Tel: 011 397 1280 www.hydracor.co.za
Ehd Tel: 011 870 5003 www.ehd.co.za Distributors of Diesel Engine Parts Electro Mechanica Tel: 011 249 5000 www.em.co.za Electrical and equipment
HDC Automotive Tel: 0861 122 115 www.hdc.co.za
auto
Hyflo www.hyflo.co.za Inttrac Trading CC Tel: 016 365 5799/ 082 566 1455
Tractors and electrical secondhand spares
equipment,
Equipment Parts & Engines (Pty) Limited Tel: 011 571 9000
JHB Tractor Spares Tel: 011 677 2100
[email protected] www.jhbtractorspares.co.za
Ernest H Johnson Tel: 011 613 8711
Replacement parts for FORD, FIAT and NEW HOLLAND tractors
GBS Gearbox Services Tel: 018 464 1024/ 2912
Landboupart Tel: 011 571 9000 www.landboupart.co.za
Gasket Centre Tel: 016 455 1381 Go Axels & Suspensions Tel: 011 864 1503
Macparts Tel: 031 702 4642 / 082 652 5223 Mass component manufacturing
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MATO Products Tel: 011 923 6000
QSV Motor Spares Tel: 011 220 1000
Truck Division Tel: 018 464 1024 / 462 4824
Grease pumps
Spare parts for Scania, Volvo, Cummins, MAN, ADE and Mercs
The repair and rebuilding of all truck gearboxes as well as the Vitamech repair to prop shafts. New clutch & Tel: 021 907 8000 pressure plates fitted, repairs also www.vitamech.co.za done. Western Truck Spare Parts (TSP) Tel: 018 632 2150 Tel: 011 398 1700 www.western1.co.za www.espa.co.za
McGyver’s Spares and Repairs Tel: 056 212 1419 For Caterpillars Metal Events Tel: 086 163 8368 www.metalevents.co.za “Spare parts implements”
for
agricultural
New Way Motor & Diesel Engineering Tel: 011 680 5632 Partmaster t/a Partrite Tel: 058 307 6500 www.partrite.co.za Contact details for provincial reps in each of the provinces can be found on the website. Perkins – see Barloworld Power Perkins
Saayman’s Springs and Industrial Coils & Engineering Tel: 021 946 3175 www.saaymansspringworks.co.za All types of springs, 4x4 suspensions,mower blades, bushes, u-bolts, trailer springs Summit Agencies Tel: 041 581 5193 www.summitagencies.co.za PTO drive shafts and gear boxes Terraquip (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 914 3648 John Deere and Kubota Spares
Gearbox and differential parts suitable for Mercedes Benz, ZF, Rockwell, Fuller VARIQUIP Tel: 033 345 8084 www.variquip.co.za A large range of parts for ADE, Perkins, Massey, Ford/Fiat/New Holland, John Deere, Landini and IHC
Vesconite Tel: 057 212 4075 www.vesconite.com
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Inputs Forklifts 1. Forklift training: saving you money If you think about it, to operate a forklift or other lifting equipment is more complicated than driving a car, yet most would pale at the thought of the operator of their forklift moving their car for them! By law, lifting equipment operators have to have a certificate of training. They have to do a five day course initially, and thereafter they can be tested and renew their certificate at a maximum of every two years. When they do the course, operators usually spend the first day learning how the machine works and why they have to do the checks properly. If you did not realise what the fan belt did, would you bother to check it regularly? By the time they have done this, they probably are more aware of the engine and how it works than most car drivers. This is usually the biggest saving any company can see directly – their machine maintenance bill. Coupled with this is the practical training. Four days, is not a lot when you have never driven a forklift, and now have to operate in 4 directions – forward, backwards, up and down! The operator is generally also in a much tighter space than the average car driver. So much wear and tear can be avoided if the operator drives carefully and safely. This is another big cost saving for the employer. Think, on the farm, how dust can affect the machines that are not cared for properly. How, during the season, you are in a real hurry to get trucks loaded and out to market. Surely you want this to happen smoothly. I use a fan belt as an example. Surely it is quicker to change a worn fan belt before it breaks, than to hold up a vehicle for loading while you go to town, get a fan belt (if there is one in stock) and then have to change it. Hopefully your engine has not seized because the operator, in a hurry, did not see his generator light come on on the dashboard! If the generator light is working that is!! We strongly recommend that all supervisors, and in fact anyone who has authority over the forklift operators, attends a forklift management seminar to ensure that they know what to expect of their operators and know how to keep them in line. If they do not do this, the money they spend on the training is really the equivalent of “buying a licence” which so many companies wish they could do! Save money: have your forklift operators and their managers trained by a reputable training company. Source: Des Fell, A ccredited Training. Write to him at info@accreditedtraining. co.za
2. Companies involved A Square Forklift Tel: 011 900 1777 www.forklift.co.za AVIS Rent-a-forklift Tel: 011 397 1784 www.avisforklift.co.za DDL Equipment Tel: 011 443 4233 www.ddl.co.za East Coast Forklifts Tel: 031 709 0371 www.eastcoastforklifts.co.za The Forklift Company Tel: 011 452 5212/41 www.theforkliftcompany.co.za The Forkman Tel: 012 804 2383 www.forkman.co.za GT Forklift Spares Tel: 011 965 0001 www.gtforklifts.co.za Liftpart Agencies Tel: 021 534 1402 www.liftpart.co.za
Machine Tool Mecc (JAC products) Tel: 011 894 7160/7084 www.jacsa.co.za Manitou Tel: 011 975 7770 www.manitou.co.za Masslift Africa Tel: 011 786 8524 www.mitsubishiforklifts.co.za Quali Prod Tel: 0861 782547 www.qualiprod.co.za Rovic & Leers Tel: 021 907 1700 www.rovicleers.co.za Shamrock Handling Concepts Tel: 011 659 1444 www.shamrockhandling.co.za Toyota forklifts Tel: 011 571 0200 www.toyotaforklift.co.za
3. Training Accredited Training Tel: 021 851 8656
[email protected] www.accreditedtraining.co.za LMI Academy Tel: 011 789 7610 www.lmi-academy.co.za
Shukela Training Centre Tel: 031 508 7700 www.sugar.org.za
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Inputs
According to the South African Petroleum Industry Association (SAPIA), fuel prices are fundamentally similar on delivery to countries around the world. Variations in price occur when the various taxes and levies of the country are added. Elements of the Basic Fuel Price (BFP) include:
The price of fuel has everything to do with the profitability of a farming operation, and increases play havoc with the farmer’s budget, to say nothing about how the rest of the population is affected!
freight costs from these refining centres to South African ports; demurrage (loading and discharging waiting time for tankers at ports); insurance and minor shipping costs; the allowed value for product loss through evaporation during marine transportation; • wharfage (harbour landing charges); • coastal storage to cover the cost of providing storage and handling facilities; • stock financing.
Numerous booklets and websites offer fuel-saving tips, and agricultural operations need to implement as many of these as possible. These include servicing vehicles regularly, installing filtration on bulk oil and diesel systems (see heading 8), and using alternative energy (animal traction, biofuels) where feasible.
The Strategic Plan for South African Agriculture noted the fuel, transport and capital costs as a factor to be considered in the steps necessary to improve the working climate and morale of those engaged in agriculture in South Africa. A fuel-tax rebate exists for VAT registered farmers, who can claim back nearly a Rand per litre on 80% of their diesel purchases.
Fuels and lubricants 1. Overview
2. Associations involved Fuel Retailers Association Tel: 011 886 2664 www.fuelretailers.co.za Paraffin Safety Association Tel: 021 671 5767 www.paraffinsafety.org ROSE Foundation (Recycling Oil Saves the Environment) Tel: 021 448 7492 www.rosefoundation.org.za The South African Petroleum Industry Association (SAPIA) Tel: 011 783 7664 www.sapia.co.za
in South Africa and to promote understanding of the industry’s contribution to economic and social progress with all stakeholders. South African Supplier Development Agency (SASDA) Tel: 011 201 4826 www.sasda.co.za SASDA matches emerging companies in the historically disadvantaged communities with the major oil companies in areas of preferential procurement.
SAPIA aims to represent the common interests of the petroleum refining and marketing industry
3. National strategy The government department relevant to this chapter is the Department of Minerals and Energy. The Contact Us/Regional Offices link on www. dme.gov.za will give you provincial contact numbers. The national telephone number is 012 317 9000. The Liquid Fuels Charter, signed in 2004 wants oil companies to sell a quarter of their operations to historically disadvantaged investors by 2010, while bridging the economic divide within the industry. The charter applies to the privately owned companies in all parts of the sector’s value chain, including exploration and production of oil, liquid fuels pipelines, oil refining, and trading. Find the charter at www.thedti.gov.za The National Energy Regulator (NERSA) has a mandate is to regulate the petroleum pipeline industries in terms of the Petroleum Pipelines Act, 2003 (Act No. 60 of 2003). Visit www.nersa.org.za The formula for how the pump price of fuel is arrived at can be found on a number of websites including www.dme.gov.za (the Department of Minerals and Energy) and www.sapia.co.za (the South African Petroleum Industry Association).
• • • •
South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) Tel: 012 428 7911 www.sabs.co.za The diesel standard (specification), SANS 342, like all national standards developed by Standards South Africa – the standards-generating division of the SABS – was developed through consensus by a national technical committee consisting of stakeholders in the field. Both manufacturers and users are represented on the committee.
4. Training and research The Central Energy Fund (CEF) Tel: 011 280 0300 www.cef.org.za The CEF (Pty) Ltd is the government’s holding company in the petroleum industry. CEF is mandated by the state to engage in the acquisition, exploitation, generation, manufacture, marketing and distribution of energy. The Energy Development and Research Centre (EDRC) at the University of Cape Town. The Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) for petroleum companies is ESETA. Contact them for accredited trainers, or visit www. eseta.org.za.
5. Websites and publications • Find the historical price of diesel, as well as the factors which make up the diesel price (basic price, duties & levies etc) on www.mbendi. co.za. • www.dme.gov.za – take the “Energy” menu option. • www.sapia.co.za – website of the South African Petroleum Industry Association (SAPIA) • www.opec.org – Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). Find the Monthly Oil Market Report, OPEC Bulletins and other publications here. • For comparative passenger car fuel economy and CO2 emissions data, visit www.naamsa.co.za/ecelabels. • Find the “Energy & resources” menu option at www.agbiz.co.za, website of the Agricultural Business Chamber. • Visit the websites of the Companies Involved (see next heading).
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6. Companies involved BP Southern Africa Tel: 021 408 2911 www.bpsa.co.za Bulperd Tel: 082 414 2569 www.bulperd.co.za Diesel carts for the farm C&N Petroleum Equipment Tel: 011 397 8416
[email protected]
Donaldson Filtration Solutions Tel: 011 997 6000 Tel: 021 530 2900 www.donaldson.co.za Fleet operators can buy “clean” fuel and lubricants only to find that it becomes contaminated during bulk storage as well as in machinery and vehicle tanks. Donaldson Filtration Systems has developed bulk fuel filtration solutions that are well suited to African conditions.
“For all your diesel transport and transfer needs”
Engen Petroleum Tel: 021 403 4911 www.engen.co.za
A range of standard tanks manufactured and marketed throughout Africa
Total South Africa Tel: 0860-111-111 www.total.co.za
Wintrust Mega Lube Tel: 021 887 4780
[email protected]
7. Diesel and winter
• Make sure the fuel tanks are sheltered or located underground. • Try to garage vehicles overnight or park them in a sheltered position. • Ensure that there is no water in your tank; that any remaining summer diesel has been used up before winter starts (order your diesel in time!) But remember: not all cold starting problems in winter are caused by fuel. Before winter starts, ensure that your fuel filters are clean, and are replaced according to the manufacturer’s schedule. Above all, make sure you are using a winter grade lubricant.
Contact
Central, North West & Northern Willie Coetzer – 083 305 1853 Cape Region
[email protected] Free State and parts of Eastern Callie Kotze – 073 334 6955 Cape Tel: 051 503 7013
[email protected]
Source: SHELL
8. Installing filtration on bulk oil and diesel systems
Peter White – 082 598 4374 Fax: 0865148713
[email protected]
Engen’s Lubricant products are also available through its wide network of Sales Distribution Companies (SDCO’s) and The Oil Centre’s (TOC’s). Please contact the Engen Customer call centre at 08600 36436 to locate your closest distributor. Joubert Implements Tel: 021 887 1220
The JSE announced its intention to extend its license to include crude oil (more specifically West Texas Diesel carts (550l, 800l, 1 000l) for Intermediate, gold and platinum). transporting fuel on the farm These products will be cash settled off NYMEX and COMEX Lubrication Equipment respectively in a similar fashion Tel: 011 493 8235 to the current Chicago Corn www.lubrequip.co.za contract. There are links for each of these products on the website): pneumatic & handheld lubrication equipment, hose reels, centralised oiling systems, DC diesel pumps, drip feed lubricators, hoses, quick couplers, grease and oil nipples, toggle clamps, pressure switches, electronic tyre inflators, machine tool protection.
Shell “helps to meet the world’s growing demand for energy in economically, environmentally and socially responsible ways.” Find the notes on respecting the environment on the website.
There are also other steps you can take:
Engen Lubricants Switchboard – 031 250 2911 Agriculture Sales Manager – 031 250 2724
KwaZulu-Natal and Swaziland
Transtank SA Tel: 071 605 9515 www.transtank.co.za
Diesel is not like water, which is a simple mixture which freezes at a single temperature. Some elements in diesel freeze earlier than others and become waxy. These crystals turn the diesel cloudy, block the fuel filter and make it difficult to pump the diesel to the engine. Some companies include an additive to help this.
Chevron South Africa (Pty) Ltd Formerly Caltex South Africa Tel: 021 403 7911 www.caltex.co.za
Region
Shell South Africa Tel: 0800 027 027 (Toll Free) www.shell.co.za
PetroSA Tel: 021 929 3000 www.petrosa.co.za
Sasol Johannesburg Stock Exchange Tel: 017 610 1111 (JSE) www.sasol.com Tel: 011 520 7299
[email protected] www.safex.co.za/ap
systems
• • • •
reduces downtime and resultant loss of production reduces component repair and replacement reduces fluid replacement and disposal costs reduces total cost of ownership
Filtration on bulk oil and diesel systems prevents the ingression of solid particulate matter into equipment when filling or topping up oil or fuel tanks. Over 70% of system failures are the direct result of poor fluid condition or management. In addition to prolonged component life, cleaner diesel gives other benefits, including improved fuel consumption and reduced service costs. Source: Donaldson Filtration Solutions
Petroleum Equipment Tel: 011 397 8416/7 www.candnpetro.com For farmtank equipment
Proper filtration:
and
With Donaldson’s full range of pre-cleaners you can extend the life of your air filter by removing up to 90% of the dirt and contaminants before it reaches the filter. The pre-cleaners are designed especially for equipment operating in very heavy dust and debris environments such as agricultural and construction vehicles and mining equipment. The Donaspin™ and TopSpin™ are self-cleaning and require no maintenance. They also offer a lower restriction which means: • your engine “breathes” easier • you can reduce air filter element usage • you will have lower costs per operating hour Source: Donaldson Filtration Systems Pty (Ltd). C ontact 011 997 6000 or visit w w w.donaldson.co.za
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9. Frequently Asked Questions What kind of engine oil should I use in my farm equipment?
What can cause one oil to become excessively thick as compared to another when both are used at the same operating temperatures and loads?
The equipment owner should always select and use oil that at least meets the minimum API Engine Service Classification recommended by the engine manufacturer. Most gasoline engines require motor oils designated “API Service SG or better”. Farm diesel engines require oils designated “API Service CF-4 or better”.
Excessive thickening of lubricating oil in service is associated with the amount of contaminants it contains and how much the oil has oxidized. For example, solid contaminants such as finely dispersed carbon in diesel engine oils can cause severe thickening. The thickening of crankcase oil in service is generally associated with infrequent oil drain practices.
What do you mean by “API Engine Service Classification” system?
What causes a crankcase oil to become discoloured?
This system, developed by the American Petroleum Institute, provides a guide for the selection of crankcase oils suitable for various service conditions. It classifies general ranges of engine service needs based upon:
Many engine oils are naturally dark in colour even before use because of their additive content. Further darkening of engine oils is normal in use. Marked changes in colour are caused by even minor amounts of contaminants. Dispersed carbon (fuel soot) causes diesel oils to become extremely dark very rapidly. Combustion residues from the antiknock additive in gasoline can cause a grey appearance. Water can cause a cloudy or emulsified appearance.
• • • • •
engine design and construction lubricating oil operating conditions maintenance practices fuel characteristics
Here’s how it works. Each service class is designated by letters, the first letter being “S” for petrol and “C” for diesel engines. The higher the second letter the higher the performance level of the oil. This provides a convenient means for the engine manufacturer to indicate the service characteristics of his various engine designs and hence their lubrication requirements. Do the SAE numbers define oil quality? No. The SAE numbers refer to the viscosity of oil only, as defined in the SAE Crankcase Oil Viscosity Classification. “Viscosity” is a measure of the “resistance to flow”, or you might say it is the “body” or “thickness” of the oil. A poor quality oil can have the same SAE viscosity classification as a good oil. How is multi-viscosity oil different from a single viscosity oil? A multi-grade oil is one which meets an SAE viscosity requirement at both 0 oC and 100 oC. It does not thin out as much when heated or thicken up as much when cooled as a single viscosity oil. For example, SAE 15W-40 oils meet cold cranking requirements of SAE 15W at 0 oC and high temperature viscosity requirements of SAE 40 at 100 oC. Thus, a multi-grade oil stretches the usable temperature range. It provides easier cold-weather starting, quicker, more efficient lubrication, reduced engine wear, and better fuel economy. How often should I change engine oil in my tractor? If your tractor is in A-1 mechanical condition, operating on the recommended type crankcase oil, and under normal operating conditions, follow instructions in the owner’s manual. If any of the conditions vary greatly, the drain period should be reduced accordingly. Does oil actually wear out? The functions of the engine oil are to lubricate, cool, seal and clean. When an oil loses its ability to perform any of these functions, it is worn out. Contamination of oil occurs in all engines. The contaminants are unburned and partially burned fuel; fuel combustion products, including water; dirt and dust. These contaminants eventually destroy the oil’s capability to function efficiently. Oil should be drained before it reaches this condition. Engines will run better – longer, when the oil is changed as recommended. How effective are oil filters, and how often should they be changed? Oil filters should be serviced in accordance with instructions contained in the service manual. When properly serviced, they do an effective job of removing the larger solid particles contaminating the oil, thereby reducing wear and increasing engine life. Oil filters cannot, however, remove the need for changing the oil at proper intervals.
What causes crankcase oils to thin out? The most common cause of motor oil thinning out is an excessive amount of unburned fuel entering the crankcase. This can be a warning of a mechanical problem unrelated to the lubricant. What are API Gear Lubricant Service Classifications and what do they mean? • API Service GL-1 describes a service which can be satisfied with a straight mineral lubricant. • API Service GL-2 describes a service which can be satisfied with a rear axle worm gear lubricants. (Seldom used in farm equipment) • API Service GL-3 describes a service which can be satisfied with a mild EP (extreme pressure) lubricant. • API Service GL-4 describes a service which can be satisfied with a multipurpose-type gear lubricant generally regarded as one meeting the requirements of formed Military Specification MIL-L-2105. • API Service GL-5 describes a service which can be satisfied with a multipurpose-type gear lubricant generally regarded as one meeting the requirements of Military Specification MIL-L-21058. What makes hydraulic fluid foam? Generally, this is caused by contaminants, such as dirt or water. Also, a common cause is aeration, caused from an air leak into the hydraulic system. Is the proper storage and handling of fuels and lubricants really as important as some oil company representatives indicate? Yes! The source of many fuel and oil complaints is right at the fuel storage tank or oil drum, after delivery has been made to the consumer. Great care should be taken to keep water and other contaminants out of fuels and lubricants by storing drums under cover or on their sides to prevent rainwater from entering through the bung, by keeping fuel tanks filled to prevent moisture accumulation from condensation, and by keeping lubricant containers tightly closed when not in use. Safety must also be considered in handling light petroleum products, fuel oil, diesel fuel, kerosene and gasoline. Mishandling and carelessness in handling these products are fire and explosion hazards. Never allow gasoline to mix with other products because it is a most volatile material. Only a small quantity of gasoline in diesel fuel or kerosene will lower the flash point and cause a serious safety hazard. Does an oil lose its effectiveness in storage? No, providing it is properly stored and contamination does not occur. Source: ENGEN
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Inputs Grain storage and handling 1. Overview Commercial grain silo owners provide storage facilities (grain silos) for the safe and hygienic care of grains and oilseeds for the owners thereof. The facilities have to adhere to the regulations and requirements of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and Department of Health regarding food safety. A total storage capacity of about 17 million tons is available throughout the production areas in South Africa for the handling and storage of summer grains (white maize, yellow maize and sorghum), winter cereals (wheat, barley, oats and rye) and oilseeds (sunflower seed, soy beans and canola). The following services are inter alia available at commercial grain silos: • • • •
grading at intake and out loading drying cleaning weighing
Source: Grain Silo Industry
2. Associations involved Grain Silo Industry Tel: 012 348 3044 Fax: 012 348 2980 The Grain Silo Industry performs administrative services for its members. They offer advice and information on grain handling and storage.
Grain Handling Organisation of Southern Africa (GOSA) Tel: 011 237 6100
[email protected]
3. National strategy Find information on the different directorates at the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries by taking the Divisions option at www. daff.gov.za Directorate: Plant Health Tel: 012 319 6505/39
[email protected] Directorate: Agricultural Statistics Tel: 012 319 8454 / 6507
[email protected] Directorate: Food Safety and Quality Assurance Tel: 012 319 7306
[email protected]
Other: Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB) Tel: 021 930 1134 www.ppecb.com Department of Health Tel: 012 312 0000 www.doh.gov.za
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4. Training and research
Call 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for the following leaflets, available from the ARC in Silverton:
Training is identified as part of the strategy to be a world-class player. Training in the silo industry includes the following courses: • Grading • Fumigation • Silo operating • Silo maintenance
• Marketing • Stock management • Personnel management • General administration
Source: Grain Silo Industry
Grain Quality and Arbitration Services (GQAS) Gert Delport Tel: 012 329 0064 / 083 227 8163 Grain Training Institute Tel: 012 656 1870 / 083 227 8161
[email protected]
• Bou van permanente sloot- en bunkersilo’s • Building of permanent trench and bunker silage silos • Hamermeul handleiding en toetsverslag 1997 • Handleiding vir die konstruksie van graansilo’s vir plaasopberging • Manual for the construction of grain silos for farm storage Grading of maize and storage are two topics included in the excellent marketing document Field Crop Marketing on www.daff.gov.za (take the “publications” and then “general publications” menu options). It is part of a training series. There is also a simpler Info Pak dealing with grain storage.
Pest Management Academy Henk Pottas Tel: 0861 99 99 00 http://pestmanagementacademy. com
Find also the Infotoon on grain storage. Visit www.agis.agric.za – take the “AGIS” and “Skills Development” menu options. There is also an Info Pak at www.daff.gov.za (take “publications” option).
Fumigation training
6. Companies involved
A call centre is run by ABC Hansen Hendrik van Aswegen has years of for the industry – 0861 GRAIN1 diverse experience, ranging from (472461) grading, management of stored grain, and fumigation of bag-, bulk, ship and closed circuit fumigation systems. ARC – PPRI Stored Grain and Oil Seed Research Unit Tel: 012 808 8217
[email protected] The need for “sufficient, safe and nutritious food” permeates the strategic imperatives of government and therefore the goals of the ARC. Many of the institute’s core activities relate to food safety in some way, sometimes less obviously and indirectly. Our activities include research on fungal contamination, insect pests and rodent infestation of grain in bulk storage, mills and small-scale farming systems. A number of examples, in no order of significance, are listed below. • East Cape rural communities tend to store grain in closed galvanized tanks in which the high moisture content of the grain encourages fungal growth. The infected grain may be toxic to humans and animals, leading to unsafe food. Drying huts, to reduce the moisture content of the grain, have been developed and the technology implemented. • The control of pests in stored grain, if carelessly or incorrectly done, may result in unsafe food due to - Contamination with pesticides - Contamination with toxic organisms - Food with little or no nutritional value • Pesticide evaluation (suitability, method of application, safety periods) is of the utmost importance to ensure that harvested grain is stored optimally and is safe for consumption. Our research addresses aspects of both on-farm (household use) and mass storage. Resistance to stored grain pesticides is increasing, therefore development and evaluation of new pesticides and/or “pesticidefree” methods like microwaves to control stored grain pests are important for the stored grain industry. • Ecologically-based rodent management in emerging pig and poultry farming systems Source: A RC – PPRI. C ontact Frikkie Kirsten at
[email protected]
5. Websites and publications Grain Handling, Storage & Drying Handbook. This is an excellent guide to plan your silo storage complex, “one of those things a processor or farmer will do sooner or later”. It is available from ABC Hansen (find contact details under heading 6). ABC Hansen also puts out a monthly electronic newsletter. The website, too, is a wealth of information.
The millers and animal feed companies also own silos. See the relevant chapters
SILO OWNERS AFGRI Ltd Tel: 017 624 1000 Fax: 017 624 1475 www.afgri.co.za Allem Broers (Pty) Ltd Tel: 056 343 3111 Fax: 056 343 2361 BKB GrainCo Tel: 021 807 8908 www.grainco.co.za GWK Ltd Tel: 053 298 8200 Fax: 053 298 3968 www.gwk.co.za Humansdorpse Koöperasie Beperk Tel: 042 295 1082 Fax: 042 291 0901
[email protected] Kaap Agri Ltd Tel: 022 482 8000 Fax: 022 482 8088 www.kaapagri.co.za MGK Ltd Tel: 012 381 2839 Fax: 012 252 4179 www.mgk.co.za Moorreesburgse Koringboere (Edms) Bpk Tel: 022 433 6300 Fax: 022 433 4579 www.mkb.co.za NTK Limpopo Agriculture Ltd Tel: 014 719 9211 Fax: 014 717 1010 www.ntk.co.za NWK Ltd Tel: 018 633 1011 Fax: 018 663 1923 www.nwk.co.za
Oos Vrystaat Kaap Bedryf (OVK) Tel: 051 923 4500 Fax: 051 924 2630 www.ovk.co.za Overberg Agri (Pty) Ltd Tel: 028 214 3800 Fax: 028 212 1521 www.overbergagri.co.za Sentraal-Suid Koöperasie Beperk Tel: 028 514 8611 Fax: 028 514 8656 www.ssk.co.za Senwes Tel: 018 464 7800 Fax: 018 464 1094 www.senwes.co.za Suidwes Tel: 018 581 1000 Fax: 018 581 1097 www.suidwes.co.za Tuinroete Agri Ltd Tel: 044 601 1200 Fax: 044 695 1746 TWK Ltd Tel: 017 824 1000 Fax: 017 824 1077 Villiersdorp Koöperasie Beperk Tel: 028 840 1120 Fax: 028 840 1833 Vrystaat Koöperasie Beperk (VKB) Tel: 058 863 8111 Fax: 058 863 8527 www.vkb.co.za
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EQUIPMENT ABC Hansen Tel: 012 804 2033 www.abchansenafrica.co.za www.millingsupply.com
The GSI Group Africa (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 794 4455 Fax: 011 794 4515 www.gsiafrica.co.za
AC Trading Tel: 033 386 1417 www.hippomills.co.za
Hydrex Tel: 011 440 4472 www.hydrex.co.za
African Micro Mills Tel: 031 584 6250 www.africanmicromills.com
Jones Masjiene Tel: 014 543 4889 / 083 627 6026
Bessemer Tel: 011 762 5341/2/3/4 www.bessemer.co.za Big Dutchman Tel: 011 452 1154 www.bigdutchman.co.za Buhler Tel: 011 801 3660 www.buhlergroup.com Cango Engineering Tel: 044 279 2099 www.hammermills.co.za
Kongskilde Tel: 011 894 2341 www.kongskilde.com
Electronic Silo Certificates (ESC) Tel: 011 797 5591 www.silocerts.co.za Managing silo certificates online
Sorter and cleaner for grain, seeds etc Silobag Systems Tel: 011 267 5868 www.silobag.co.za SIQ (Pty) Ltd Tel: 012 807 9460 www.siq.co.za South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) Tel: 012 428 6648
[email protected]
Maximill Roller Mills Tel: 056 217 1580/1
GPB has been involved in the Pesticide residue testing for quality upgrading of a number of grain control and R&D purposes storage depots.
Plantkor Tel: 036 468 1309
[email protected] www.plantkor.co.za
Flomech Tel: 031 569 2038 www.flomech.co.za
Snell Africa Marketing Tel: 056 212 2697 www.snellafrica.co.za
FUMIGANTS National Fumigants Tel: 011 769 1300 Tel: 031 767 3972 www.natfum.co.za
GRADING EQUIPMENT Ronin Grain Management Solutions Tel: 011 606 2194 www.roningms.com
Buckle Packaging Tel: 011 613 8024 www.bucklepack.co.za
Martínez Y Staneck SA www.martinezystaneck.com.ar
Silo Warehouse Tel: 012 332 1469 www.silowarehouse.co.za
Degesch SA Tel: 011 974 2338 www.degesch.co.za
Stored grain protection pesticides
Just Another Problem Solver (J.A.P.S.) Tel: 011 965 1205
[email protected]
GPB Consulting Tel: 021 852 7811 www.consultgpb.co.za
Drotsky Tel: 011 864 1601 www.drotsky.co.za
Coopers ES Tel: 011 979 4246 / 082 447 9333 www.cooperses.com
Avima Tel: 011 769 1300 www.avima.co.za
Rhine Ruhr Process Equipment Tel: 011 444 1321 www.rhineruhr.co.za
7. Farmer points of interest A farmer has the following storage options: • • • •
deliver the crop immediately to the miller/processor use silo bags erect your own silos make use of commercial silos off-farm.
The advantages of on-farm grain storage include the following: • The producer is adding value to his grain. • By cleaning and proper storage of his own grain, the producer can convert a previous cost item only into a small cost portion and a large asset portion. • After five years, a quality grain silo is paid for at roughly the same rate as central storage would have cost with the remaining 25 – 35 year; only the relative small operational and maintenance cost remains. • Large savings on transport can be realised. • Easier, automated logistics in the case of flow-through bins. • Proper grading and in the case of wheat for instance, blending up or down can realise huge additional revenue. Own cleaning of grain results in the producer retaining the screenings for feed and avoiding the penalty. Ensuring grain is delivered at the right moisture allows several percent higher realisation. • Grain can be stored for longer periods at lower cost, thereby taking full advantage of the time value of grain. The only qualification to these advantages is that a proper, low risk system be installed. Source: ABC Hansen
OTHER ARC – Plant Protection Asgisa Eastern Cape (Pty) Ltd Tel: 043 531 0103 Research Institute http://asgisa-ec.co.za Frikkie Kirsten 012 808 8217
[email protected] AsgiSA Eastern Cape has allocated money for the construction of silos Pesticide testing, rodent control in the province as part of a cropping research, mycotoxin analysis programme aimed at alleviating poverty in rural areas.
Our gratitude to Dirk Kok (Grain Silo Industry) and Frikkie Kirsten (ARCPPRI) who gave feedback on the draft chapter
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Inputs Implements
BP Implements Tel: 056 515 1066/7 www.bpimplemente.co.za Cango Engineering Tel: 044 272 3590 www.hammermills.co.za Carel van Niekerk Engineering Tel: 022 913 2435 www.piket.co.za
1. Overview • Included in the category of “Implements” are hay and forage equipment, planters, telehandlers and loaders, sprayers, ground-working equipment, spreaders and graders. In this chapter we give details of suppliers and dealers, and where more information may be found. • The reader is also referred to supplementary chapters e.g. Tractors, Combines and Balers, Precision Farming, Conservation Tillage, Use of Animal Power, the different crop chapters etc.
Implements include no-till Carrotech Agricultural Equipment Tel: 021 865 2044 www.carrotech.co.za
2. Websites and publications
Diamond Implements Tel: 013 665 1032
[email protected]
Koos le Roux has written the Meganisasiegids (Mechanical Guide). Also find the columns written by him on the Landbouweekblad website – www. landbou.com. Look for the “Meganisasie” menu option. Le Roux can be contacted at 082 828 9531.
Electrolee Tel: 012 347 9933 www.electrolee.co.za
Call 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for the following publications, available from the ARC-Institute for Agricultural Engineering in Silverton: • • • • • • • • • • • •
Mechanisation basics: Sprayers en spraying techniques (Training manual) Mechanisation basics: Row crop planters (Training manual) Mechanisation basics: Calculations and measurement (Training manual) Introduction to row crop planters Comparative review of technical specifications for no-till jab-planters The operation and application of mounted mowers The operation and application of hay rakes and hay tedders The operation and application of medium and big square balers The application and operation of round balers The application and operation of rotary cultivators The operation and application of subsoilers and rippers The operation and application of chisel ploughs
See the websites of companies involved e.g. New Holland (www.nhsa.co.za), John Deere SA (www.johndeere.co.za), Rovic & Leers (www.rovicleers. co.za), Falcon Agricultural Equipment (www.falconequipment.co.za) etc. www.agrisales.co.za – agricultural equipment, new or used
3. Roleplayers • Affiliates of the South African Agricultural Machinery Association (SAAMA) – see the “Tractors, Combines and Balers” chapter – are also major suppliers of agricultural implements e.g. Barloworld Agricultural Products, John Deere etc. • Find suppliers of implements in the Conservation Tillage chapter • Producer organisations like Grain SA run farm implement maintenance training courses. • Agribusinesses and co-operatives deal with agricultural implements (refer to the “Agribusiness” chapter). AFGRI Tel: 012 643 8169 www.afgri-ir.co.za
Alrite Engineering Tel: 011 626 2580 www.alrite.co.za
Agri-Phyto Tel: 028 735 2425
[email protected]
BJP Supplies Tel: 023 342 6070 www.rumax.co.za
Alpha Engineering Tel: 028 514 3450 www.alpha-engineering.co.za
Feed mixers, hammer mills
Monitor fertiser flow ... Farmers’ Supply Tel: 011 423 2801 www.farmersupply.co.za GC Tillage Tel: 033 346 2251 www.gctillage.co.za GMG Power SA Tel: 011 392 1144 www.gmgpower.co.za GWK Ltd Tel: 053 298 8200 www.gwk.co.za Havco Tel: 017 712 5266/5355 www.havco.co.za INTTRAC Tel: 016 365 5799 www.inttrac.co.za Inyoni Africa Tel: 013 712 2175 www.inyoniafrica.co.za Just Another Problem Solver (J.A.P.S.) Tel: 011 965 1205
[email protected] Josco Services Tel: 021 853 3300 www.joscoservices.co.za Kaap Agri Tel: 021 877 6118 / 083 407 7740 www.kaapagri.co.za Kouga Implements Tel: 042 295 1146 / 082 655 1146 Mascor Tel: 033 413 2164 www.mascor.co.za Mnani Implements Tel: 013 665 3054 www.mnani.co.za
Monosem Planters Tel: 021 865 2044 NewQuip Agri Supplies Tel: 011 472 2201 / 082 610 0960
[email protected] Nigel Plen – see Turfmaster (Pty) Ltd Orbach Agri Tel: 016 424 1125 www.orbach.co.za Quali Prod Tel: 086 178 2547 www.qualiprod.co.za Reapers Tel: 033 394 6301 www.reapers.co.za Rogue Agriculture Tel: 033 345 0038 www.roguesteel.co.za Rolo Voermengers Tel: 082 350 8051 / 082 964 6879 Fax: 058 303 1134 Rovic & Leers Tel: 021 907 1700 www.rovicleers.co.za Senwes Tel: 018 464 7553 www.senwes.co.za Skaarland Engineering Works Tel: 022 433 2343 Southtrade Tel: 021 981 6044 Staalmeester Tel: 018 431 0693 www.staalmeester.co.za Tatu – contact Valtrac (see Tractor, Combines & Balers chapter) Theebo Tech (Pty) Ltd Tel: 021 981 2161 www.equalizer.co.za Tijbros Agricultural Machinery Tel: 011 662 1371/63 www.dicla.com Turfmaster (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 7303400 www.turfmaster.co.za Van Zyl Staalwerke Tel: 058 863 2452/ 082 800 1389 www.vanzylsraal.co.za Vitamech Tel: 021 907 8000 www.vitamech.co.za VKB Ltd Tel: 058 863 8111 www.vkb.co.za Wesmeg (Suidwes) Tel: 018 581 1000 www.suidwes.co.za
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Inputs Irrigation 1. Overview Irrigation is the artificial application of water to the soil usually for assisting in growing crops. Agriculture that relies only on direct rainfall is referred to as rain-fed farming.
The South African National Committee on Irrigation and Drainage (SANCID) Dr Gerhard Backeberg (chairperson)
[email protected] www.sancid.org.za SANCID represents South Africa at the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID). Addresses for representatives of SANCID may be found on the website. Southern African Regional Irrigation Association (SARIA) Based at the Water Research Commission Tel: 012 330 0340
Other irrigation-related associations and industry organisations:
Sources of irrigation water can be groundwater extracted from springs or by using wells, surface water withdrawn from rivers or dams, or nonconventional sources like treated wastewater, desalinated water or drainage water.
Landscape Irrigation Association Tel: 011 606 3855 Fax: 011 606 3098 www.sali.co.za
Irrigation systems typically being used in South Africa today include:
The Borehole Water Association of SA Tel: 011 447 0853 Fax: 011 447 0831
[email protected] www.bwa.co.za
• • • •
canals flood irrigation draglines, quick-coupling lines. pivots
• sprinklers • micro irrigation • drip irrigation
Water Research Commission Tel: 012 330 0340 Fax: 012 331 2565 www.wrc.org.za Network on Irrigation and Extension for Small-scale Agriculture (NIRESA) Tel: 012 330 0340 Fax: 012 330 0275
[email protected]
These irrigation systems can be defined under the following types: • static (micro and sprinkle) – these systems remain static while water is applied; • moveable (quick coupling; dragline; hop-along; big gun; rotating boom) – these remain static during irrigation but are moved, manual or mechanically, between irrigations; • moving (centre pivot; linear and travelling irrigator), which move by themselves during while irrigating; • flood (basin; border; furrow; short furrow) – water flows over the soil surface for spreading and infiltration purposes. Source: http://en.w ikipedia.org/w iki/Irrigation (adapted); “Irrigation Basic”s, an article by Johannes Maree (contact him at
[email protected])
Irrigated agriculture plays an important role in stabilising the production of food and eventual food security. Although it uses 60% of the available water in South Africa, it does not do so at the expense or the detriment of any other sector of the economy. Yet no farmer would disagree that the demand on our scarce water resources makes the efficient use of all water in South Africa a necessity. Source: adapted from a letter w ritten by Johannes Möller, president of A gri SA , to the Minister of the Department of Water and Environmental A ffairs
2. Associations involved SA Irrigation Institute (SABI) Tel: 021 855 5412
[email protected] www.sabi.co.za SABI has more than 450 members that include inter alia designers, engineers, soil scientists, crop experts, economists and irrigation farmers. Furthermore, there are more than 60 company members, which represent mainly manufacturers and suppliers of irrigation equipment. SABI’s main roles are: • irrigation standards and norms; and • being a forum where industry players can raise issues. SABI serves the interests of both the irrigation farmer and irrigation designers. Irrigators who experience problems with their irrigation systems can contact SABI. SABI will provide a list of approved Irrigation Designers who can be approached for a quotation and a technical evaluation for the system.
3. National strategy Department of Water and Environmental Affairs (DWEA) Tel: 012 336 7500 www.dwa.gov.za Selecting the “Documents” menu option will provide a spread of available information, including the National Water Act 36 of 1998, Water Quality Management and more.
Relevant directorate within the Department of Agriculture Directorate: Water Use and Irrigation Management Ms Mary-Jean Gabriel Tel: 012 846 8567
[email protected] DAFF has identified irrigation development as one of five priority areas for the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa (AsgiSA). Expansion of irrigation by 50% is being targeted, which triggered the need for a revised irrigation strategy. Find the document Irrigation Strategy for South Africa on the internet, or approach DAFF for it. The chapters are listed below: • General • Natural resource base fir irrigated agriculture in South Africa • Institutional structures and arrangements required for successful, efficient, sustainable irrigated agriculture • Resource surveys, land suitability evaluation and land use planning • Irrigation research, extension and advisory services • Infrastructure for irrigated agriculture • Management in irrigated agriculture • Education and training of irrigation scientists and farmers • Revitalisation, re-development or upgrading of irrigation schemes and private irrigation farms that have collapsed or are under-utilised and handling of cases of unlawful irrigation • Development of new commercial irrigated areas • Mini-scale irrigated agriculture for household and community level food security • Strategies relating to non-agricultural laws which strongly impact on irrigated agriculture
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4. Training and research
5. Websites and publications
Chapter 8 of Irrigation Strategy for South Africa deals with the education and training of irrigation scientists and farmers
SABI, as the recognised representative organisation of the irrigation industry in South Africa associated with the optimal and effective use of irrigation water, organises and facilitates a series of training courses each year. SABI’s training courses are suited to experienced and trainee farm workers, irrigation managers and irrigation designers, and have been presented for more than 10 years in co-operation with the private sector, universities, research organisations and agricultural colleges all around the country. SABI courses are all built on sound theoretical foundations but are presented in a practical manner with the assistance of SABI company members and approved SABI designer members. Since 2009 SABI courses have been accredited by SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority), and are thus recognised as part of the registered NQF (National Qualifications Framework) learning programme. The following courses are presented: • Irrigation Operator Course • Irrigation Manager Course (Installation and management of irrigation systems) • Introductory Irrigation Design Course • Advanced Irrigation Design Course The Agricultural Colleges and Provincial Departments of Agriculture present short courses on irrigation for small scale as well as for commercial farmers. These include a basic introduction to irrigation planning, examination of soil, economics and irrigation scheduling. Find contact details in the “Agricultural education and training” chapter.
The ITSC has run courses in the past – Irrigation practices and systems (subtropical crops); Irrigation Scheduling. Companies involved provide training on practical aspects of irrigation, such as installation, maintenance and management of irrigation systems.
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Providers of South African Department Civil Engineering Qualification Authority (SAQA) Tel: 041 504 3461/3531 courses, accredited with www.nmmu.ac.za AgriSETA, offer courses related to irrigation. Find contact details Designing of various types of in the Agricultural Education and irrigation systems Training chapter. University of the Free State ARC-Institute for Agricultural Lengua Agricultural Centre Engineering (IAE) Tel: 051 443 8859 Tel: 012 842 4000
[email protected] [email protected] www.arc.agric.za University of Pretoria Continuing Education For the development, testing and Tel: 012 420 3880 evaluation of irrigation equipment
[email protected] in world-class laboratories, in-field evaluations of irrigation systems, A short course in irrigation improvement of existing designs, management is offered practices and established irrigation methods as well as the rehabilitation Water Research Commission Tel: 012 330 0340 / 9053 of irrigation schemes. www.wrc.co.za ARC-Institute of Tropical and Subtropical Crops (ITSC) Tel: 013 753 7000 www.arc.agric.za
SABI Magazine/Tydskrif is published by SABI every second month. It is the only irrigation industry magazine in South Africa and is distributed to more than 5 000 irrigation farmers and associated professionals in South Africa. SABI Magazine/Tydskrif gives the reader first hand information and a range of topical and technical articles on the irrigation industry in South Africa. Visit www.sabi.co.za for more information and to subscribe to the magazine. Newsjet is the newsletter of SABI. Find a copy on their website. Irrigation Design Manual – usually given as part of the Irrigation Design Course. Contact SABI for a copy. The Water Research Commission has numerous relevant publications. One of these is Irrigation water measurement – Guidance for water user associations. Water user associations (WUAs) will be assisted greatly by these guidelines addressing the choice, installation and management of water measuring devices for canal, pipeline and river distribution systems. This and many other publications are available from the Water Research Commission. Call 012 330 0340, email
[email protected] after viewing www.wrc.org.za Available from the Training Resources Development at Cedara are 8 posters on irrigation. Contact Clive Viljoen (033 355 8234 / clive.viljoen@kzndae. gov.za) or Noreen Mhlongo (033 355 8237 / Noreen.mhlongo@kzndae. gov.za). • International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID) – www.icid.org • Irrigation Association Australia – www.irrigation.org.au • Irrigation Association (US) – www.irrigation.org • International Water Management Institute – www.iwmi.org Visit the websites of companies and associations involved. Call 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for the following publications, available from the ARC-Institute for Agricultural Engineering: • Irrigation design manual (Planning and design of irrigation systems) • Irrigation User’s Manual (installation, management and maintenance of irrigation systems) • Besproeiingsbedryfshandleiding/Irrigation Users’ Manual on cd (pdfformat) • The efficient use of labour in sprinkler irrigation systems • The effects of wind on sprinkler irrigation • Aspects to consider when selecting sprinklers for use in irrigation systems • Critical elements which influences the efficiency of small-scale farm sprinkler irrigation systems • Engineering aspects of sub-surface drip irrigation • Treatment of low quality water for drip irrigation systems • The performance and care of drip irrigation emitters • Investigation into materials for lining of canals • Petrol-driven irrigation pump for emerging farmers • An evaluation of some irrigation methods for small vegetable gardens in remote rural areas • Manual on the evaluation of irrigation systems • Irrigation made easy (training manual)
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6. Companies involved For a complete list of companies involved, visit www.sabi.co.za - take the “Company Members” menu option. Postal address, contact person, telephone, email and fax are given for each company.
Agrinet Tel: 012 657 2000
EC Pumps Tel: 041 364 0669
Agri-Tech Distributors Tel: 021 949 5844
Elster Kent Metering (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 470 4900
Amatola Irrigation Tel: 043 732 1927
Calafrica Tel: 021 847 1215
Andrag / Agrico (Pty) Ltd Tel: 021 950 4111
Conns Manufacturing Co (Pty) Ltd Tel: 021 981 7601
Bauer South Africa Tel: 034 212 3238
DFM Software Solutions CC Tel: 021 904 1154
Agriplas (Pty) Ltd Tel: 021 917 7177
DPI Plastics (Edms) Bpk Tel: 021 946 2294
Aquatan Pty Ltd Tel: 011 974 5271
Electric Motor Laminations Tel: 021 531 9473
Amitech Tel: 011 864 2040
Elsumo (Pty) Ltd Tel: 021 875 5781
Arand Engineering Tel: 021 905 4410
FAB Water Engineering Tel: 011 793 5513
Arcus Gibb Tel: 043 706 3600
Floppy Sprinkler (Pty) Ltd Tel: 013 752 4252
Boland Plastiek Produkte Tel: 021 872 7436
Friendly Agri Tel: 013 790 0977
Boseng (Pty) Ltd Tel: 021 905 5555
Grundfos South Africa Tel: 011 579 4800
Campbell Scientific (CS) Africa Tel: 021 880 1252
Hose Manufacturers Tel: 021 948 3971
CropSystems Tel: 021 914 4591
Incledon Tel: 011 323 0800
D & D Pumps Tel: 021 981 5392
Farmarama Tel: 043 732 1633
DFM Software Solutions Tel: 021 904 1154
Flowmetrix SA CC Tel: 031 206 6630
Franklin Electric South Africa Tel: 011 609 4150
Optima Agrik CC Tel: 012 654 6097
House of Irrigation (Pty) Ltd Tel: 012 391 1000
Petzetakis Africa Tel: 021 980 2500
Hytech Agriculture Tel: 011 664 8767
Plastiek Pype Tzaneen Tel: 015 307 5585
Inyoni Africa Tel: 013 712 2175
Rain Bird International Inc Tel: 042 296 0943
Irricon (Edms) Bpk Tel: 013 712 4261
Rhino Plastics Tel: 021 932 6601
Irrigation Unlimited CC Tel: 012 736 2121
RJ Irrigation Tel: 018 294 6665
KSB Pumps & Valves (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 876 5600
Rotrix Africa Tel: 023 342 3438
Lindsay Africa Tel: 021 868 7100
Salmson Tel: 021 948 6104
Marley Pipe Systems (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 739 8600
Senninger Irrigation Tel: 033 330 7583
Mikon Agri (Pty) Ltd Tel: 013 665 4050
Senter 360 Tel: 018 469 1331 / 082 564 5955 www.senter360.co.za
Irri-Gator Products (Pty) Ltd Tel: 021 982 7561 J Gey van Pittius (Pty) Ltd Tel: 021 858 1204 Kubuta Agri Design & Civils Tel: 00 268 416 2420 Macsteel Fluid Control Tel: 021 950 5500 Microjet Irrigation Systems Tel: 021 535 1310 Model Maker Systems Tel: 012 665 0121 Mottech Water Control Solutions Tel: 022 492 3469 Netafim South Africa (Pty) Ltd Tel: 021 987 0477
Swaziland Water Agri Dev Enterprise Tel: 00268 404 7950 T-Systems Europe, SAS Tel: +33 5 34 27 05 05 Turf-AG Products (Edms) Bpk Tel: 011 315 0224 Ubuntu Plastics Tel: 012 542 3064 UIC Instrumentation (Pty) Ltd Tel: 031 468 2561 Valley Irrigation of Southern Africa Tel: 011 814 7007 WSM Leshika Consulting Tel: 015 491 4756
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7. Commercial farmer points of interest Computer Software for Farmers Irrigation scheduling is defined as the correct amount of water being applied to a crop at the correct time. We have only a limited resource of water, which should be utilised in the most efficient way possible. By optimising scheduling principles we can: • • • • • • • • • • •
prevent over and under watering facilitate crop manipulation prevent unnecessary crop stress create ideal air-water balance manage soil water buffer optimise salinity management prevent soil compaction save on energy costs promote root development improve fertiliser uptake maximise harvest potential
Water legislation means that a farmer has to budget for how much water will be used. By using scheduling software the farmer can tell exactly how much water he used so that he can estimate how much he’s going to need for the next year as required. Some software companies have addressed the new regulations by developing software solutions that can successfully keep track of water budgeting information and spray records. One module uses climate and soil moisture information to generate irrigation recommendations. It will also help predict water requirements. By loading this information, you will be able to make use of a second module which controls the irrigation in the field. This module also can determine when to irrigate in order to prevent frost or to cool down the plants by keeping track of temperature readings. By means of radio or of wired links, the pumps and valves in the field are controlled. Source: DFM Softw are
8. Design Norms Find the menu option “Approved Designers” on the SABI website. Contacts are given for seven of the provinces: Gauteng, Eastern Cape, Kwazulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Free State and Western Cape.
designer to optimally design an irrigation system for specific circumstances. A multi- disciplinary approach is required when evaluating water quality for irrigation purposes, so as to identify any anticipated problems with drip systems, the determination of and management of available water sources e.g. boreholes, peak and annual crop water requirements, analaysis of soil water holding capacity and infiltration rate. The designer must highlight any problems e.g. the blockage of drip systems with irrigation water, and make recommendations to solve the envisaged problems. Find the SABI makes proposals and provides technical information on www.sabi.co.za – take the “Design Norms” menu. Norms in the following are proposed: pipe friction in main and sub-main pipelines, application efficiencies, irrigation hours per week, minimum pump capacity (safety factor for wear and tear), permissible suction velocities. The following types are dealt with: • • • • •
Micro Irrigation Drip Irrigation Sprinkler Irrigation Centre Pivot Flood Irrigation
9. Small-Scale Farmer Information Find out about the support offered by the Department of Water Affairs (DWA) to resource-poor irrigation farmers. Drip irrigation is the ideal solution for small-holders (see diagram which follows). It uses specially designed pipes pre-fitted with advanced drippers. The irrigation system drips the exact amount of water and nutrients that crops need right at the root zone. Thus, every drop of water is effectively used to raise quality and increase year-round yields. Why is drip irrigation so successful? • • • • • •
It keeps soil aerated. It reduces weed growth. It cuts down diseases and fungi·Uniform, efficient water distribution. Evaporation and water run-off are minimised. It enables easy control of water consumption. It is the most efficient, accurate use of water and nutrients.
In South Africa there is a great need for farmers, crop, soil and fertiliser specialists to have information on crop water requirements, nutritional requirements and the scheduling thereof in terms of recommendations for the
Source: Netafim Thanks to Riana Lombard from SABI for feedback on the draft chapter
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Inputs Livestock-related equipment For livestock identification equipment see the Precision Livestock Farming chapter
1. Companies involved
Abaserve Tel: 012 460 7834
Dicla Farm and Seeds Tel: 011 662 1371 www.dicla.com
A completely integrated application designed for abattoirs, wholesalers Poultry equipment and meat-processing industries. Drotsky Aktief & Agrifeed Systems AAB-Dart system Tel: 011 864 1601/2 www.pnenviro.co.za www.drotsky.co.za A darting system deigned for farmers and game ranchers to Manufacturers of hammer mills, deliver medicines and vaccines feed mixers, pelleting machines and to both large domestic stock and other feed processing equipment game animals in captivity, over The Downer Cowjack ranges of 2m to 10m. Tel: 044 878 1138 / 082 878 1138 www.cowjack.co.za Agrifeed Systems Tel: 048 881 1711 / 082 652 4930 Durotec Tel: 041 585 5578 Animal Handling & Safety Equipment Services Surface, skin and udder hygiene, Tel: 0861 264625 isoglove, dairy and equipment www.animalhandling.co.za cleaning solutions Animal control poles, gloves, cages, Four Lakes remote injection equipment Tel: 021 557 0606 www.fourlakes.co.za AXXON Tel: 011 837 7177/6/0 Suppliers of quality animal health Fax: 011 837 3100 and dairy herd management Milking systems from parlours to products trolley-milkers for cattle and small stock. Electronic Weighing and I.D. GSI Group Africa (Pty) Ltd systems including Electronic I.D. Tel: 011 794 4455 Fax: 011 794 4515 for all classes of stock. www.gsiafrica.co.za Bessemer A variety of equipment for poultry Tel: 011 762 5341/2/3 Fax: 011 762 5345 and pig farming e.g. fans, heaters, electronic climate controls, feeders, Poultry houses watering systems etc. Biltong Droer Tel: 016 362 3733 BJP Supplies Tel: 023 342 6070 / 082 335 3970 www.rumax.co.za
Havco Tel: 017 712 5355 www.havco.co.za
HOTSURE Tel: 0861 HOTSURE Manufacturer of feed mixers, Fax: 086 640 5744 hammer mills and electronic scales www.hotsure.co.za Blitz Voermengers Tel: 058 303 1127 Feed mixers Chemvet Tel: 011 437 9000 www.chemvet.co.za Chicken and pig houses Diamond Implements Tel: 013 665 1032 Fax: 013 665 1436 Dealers in Lachish Feed mixers
Biotelemetry solutions for proactive risk management and precision farming.The benefits include: • animal health remote monitoring • precision grazing and veld utilisation monitoring • livestock and game remote monitoring (eco-tourism, health & safety) • estrus and bull performance monitoring
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Image X Tel: 011 869 6888/2 www.imagex.co.za
Richard Keenan SA (Pty) Ltd Tel: 033 330 3135 Fax: 033 330 3136
Ultrasound scanners – for Suppliers of Mixer Wagons and pregnancies in sheep, cattle, horses Orbital Spreaders and goats Roff Industries Jarvis Products Corporation Previously Snell Africa RSA Tel: 056 212 2697 Tel: 011 974 6776/9 www.roff.co.za John F Marshal Tel: 011 842 7100 www.johnfmarshall.co.za
Feed mixers and more Rolo Voermengers Tel: 082 964 6879/ 082 350 8051
Agro processing and abattoir equipment; a range of poultry, Feed mixers rabbit and livestock equipment Storti International Kanhym Landgoed (Northmec) Tel: 013 249 7964 Tel: 011 922 2300 www.kanhym.co.za www.northmec.co.za Feed mills, feed kraals
Feed mixers
Keenan – see “Richard Keenan TAL-TEC SA” Tel: 012 250 2188/9 www.taltec.co.za Kentmaster Tel: 011 455 3748 Manufacturer of cattle and sheep www.kentmaster.com handling equipment (animal husbandry): scale, neck clamps, Equipment for the meat industry clamps, feeders, water troughs, loading ramps, mobile equipment Kylami Trailer Hire and trailers, spray race for tick Tel: 011 466 2997 dipping, branding equipment. New Quip Tel: 011 472 2201
Trogtek Tel: 057 355 2588 / 082 855 3445
Pig and poultry equipment
Oasis feed and water cribs
Noordkaap Livestock Co-op Tel: 053 927 3871
Voer- en Waterkrippe Wimpie Meyer – 082 789 4777
Plantkor Tel: 036 468 1309 Fax: 036 468 1258 www.plantkor.co.za
Feed troughs, water troughs
Zoological Live Animal Suppliers Tel: 011 964 1446 Feeders and drinkers as well as an www.zoosupplies.co.za extensive range of pig equipment Animal handling and other specialised equipment. Surgical Plastiflo Products tools and equipment (medical and Tel/fax: 042 293 1827 veterinary). Various troughs and feeders Whole Concepts ™CC available Tel: 053 927 4999 / 082 459 9451 www.nosering.co.za RAU Easy Farming Tel: 058 863 1515/082 550 6883 www.animalimmobilizer.com
For livestock Nose Rings
Reapers Tel: 033 394 6301 Fax: 033 394 6333 Stop gates, scales, drinking troughs, catch dips, ovifeeders etc
Find the ARC-IAE publications to do with livestock structures/buildings in the Structures and Building Supplies chapter.
Inputs Miscellaneous equipment 1. Companies involved Building and welding
Cables and electrical
Afrox Client Centre Tel: 0860 020 202 www.afrox.com
Anzac Cables & Wire Tel: 011 873 5775 www.anzac.co.za
Welding equipment for farmers
Marshall-Fowler Tel: 011 412 11230 http://marshall-fowler.com/
BM Power Centre Tel: 021 511 2346 Blockmaking machines Genpower Tel: 0861 101 103 www.genpower.co.za Builders plant, welders Grinding Techniques (Pty) Limited Tel: 011 271 6400 www.grindtech.com
TECH Cables Tel: 012 330 1703
Clothing and tents Canvas & Tent Tel: 036 634 1902 www.canvasandtent.co.za Four Lakes www.fourlakes.co.za Muck boots and other footware
Manufacture Superflex cutting and Janki Oorpakke angle grinding wheels Tel/fax: 058 223 0418/368 Harding Treated Timbers Tel: 039 433 1805 Building, fencing, telephone poles Hydraform Tel: 011 913 1449/ 083 627 8203 www.hydraform.com
Jonsson Workwear Tel: 031 314 4000 www.jonsson.co.za KRB Safety Equipment & Packaging Tel: 012 661 0935/6 www.k-r-b.com
Machines for the production of Sifort interlocking dry-stacking soil- Tel: 012 667 2586 cement blocks www.sifort.co.za Jaytrade CC Tel: 021 385 1652 www.jaytrade.co.za Construction and Agricultural equipment Lula Gauteng – 082 576 6007 Eastern and Western Cape – 082 968 8403 www.lula.co.za
Army tents, trading tents, marqees and more
Cold Storage Commercial Cold Storage Group Tel: 031 205 1231 www.comcold.co.za Cool Space Tel: 011 452 5109
Cost effective digger for big and Echo Coldrooms small jobs (foundations, trenches) Tel: 012 803 9490 www.echocoldrooms.co.za Rand Plastics (Pty) Limited Tel: 011 626 2630 Emmies Refrigeration Tel: 014 736 6918 / 20 / 21 Stackable tables and chairs www.emmies.co.za Wilkinson Brick Making Machines Tel: 011 948 9702 ww.wbm.co.za
Profreeze Tel: 051 433 24 69 Fax: 051 433 4027
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Crop and Horticulture-related LYNX Dave – 083 463 4332 www.fruitsizers.co.za Alrite Engineering Tel: 011 626 2580 Fruit and vegetable packhouse www.alrite.co.za equipment Brushcutters, chainsaws etc. Mayfield Fertiliser Applicator Tel: 011 880 0007/083 301 3568 Dormas (Pty) Limited www.mayfield.co.za Tel: 011 496 2800 www.dormas.co.za Back-pack for manual application Fruit and vegetable handling Taljar Services & Wincut equipment and spares Tel: 011 882 0804 www.taljar.co.za GPB Consulting Tel: 021 852 7811 Shears for all types of tree farming www.consultgpb.co.za – forestry, citrus, deciduous and Design of fruit packhouse viticulture equipment layout Fire Fighting Goldpack Tel: 031 569 4199 See separate chapter on fire. www.goldpack.co.za Knife sharpeners Automatic weighing and packing solutions for fresh vegetables and BC Technologies fruit. Branches in KZN, Western Tel: 082 403 2638 Cape and Gauteng. Blade Buddy Hardi Crop Protection SA Tel: 083 514 3454 Tel: 011 613 8711 Scales and weighing equipment
Sprayers, Pumps etc. Husqvarna Tel: 033 846 9700 www.husqvarna.co.za
Scalerite Tel: 011 618 2554 www.scalerite.co.za
Chainsaws, brushcutters etc.
Septic Tanks and Sanitation
Jaytrade Tel: 021 385 1652 www.jaytrade.co.za
Atlas Plastics Tel: 018 469 1201 www.atlasplastics.co.za
Sprayers, pruning equipment etc.
Ballam-Waterslot Tel: 012 347 9151 / 9013 Cell: 082 417 8069
[email protected]
JOSCO Services Tel: 021 853 3300 www.joscoservices.co.za Mowers, slashers, sprayers, driveshafts
Bio-Systems SA knapsack Tel: 021 786 2972 / 082 901 9011 www.biosystemssa.co.za
Jo Jo Tanks Tel: 013 262 3021 www.jojotanks.co.za
Gedore Tel: 0861 GEDORE www.gedore.co.za
Portabuild Tel: 087 751 4431 www.portabuild.co.za
Hand Tool Manufacturers’ Association Tel: 011 298 9419
Portable sanitation and modular Husqvarna buildings Tel: 033 846 9700 www.husqvarna.co.za SA Biotech Tel: 087 751 4431 Irwin Industrial Tools www.sabiotech.co.za www.irwin.com Sani-tech Tel: 011 922 6600 www.sanitech.co.za Sanitation systems portable toilets
Lasher Tel: 011 825 1100 www.lasher.co.za including Mech-Tech Tel: 033 386 2331 www.mech-tech.co.za
Sannitree International Tel: 021 761 2335 www.sannitreeinternational.co.za
Septank Tel: 028 271 5001 / 083 251 3038 www.septank.co.za Siyageza Tel: 011 452 6800 www.siyageza.co.za
Tools Adendorff Machinery Tel: 011 683 8360 www.tooltime.co.za
Metabo Power Tools Tel: 011 372 9600 www.metabo.co.za Passetti Power Tools Tel: 012 327 1753 Pick a Tool (buy online) www.pickatool.co.za Protea Industrial Equipment Tel: 011 719 5700 Robotic Systems SA (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 608 3182
Agrinet www.agrinet.co.za
Skill Craft Tel: 011 434 4064 www.skillcraft.co.za
All Power Tel: 041 451 3936 www.allpower.co.za
Snap-on Africa Tel: 031 719 1600 www.snapon.co.za
Black & Decker Power Tools www.blackanddecker.com
Stihl www.stihl.co.za
Bolt & Engineering Distributors Find provincial contact numbers on the website Tel: 018 469 4218 / 9 www.bolteng.co.za South African Machine Tools Manufacturers Association Bosch Power Tools Tel: 011 833 6033 Tel: 011 651 9600 www.bosch-pt.com Toolquip & Allied Tel: 011 370 2760/2727 Cortool www.toolquip.co.za Tel: 012 565 6587 Domar www.dolmarpowerproducts.com
Tools for Africa Tel: 011 334 3487 www.nattools.com
Echo Outdoor Power Equipment The Toolshop www.echo-usa.com Tel: 011 792 4185 www.toolshop.co.za Festool Tel: 011 390 7200 Würth South Africa www.festool.co.za Tel: 011 281 1000 www.wurth.co.za
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Inputs Packaging 1. Overview • “Packaging” here includes rigid and flexible plastic containers, cardboard containers, plastic bulk bins, punnets and trays for fruit and vegetables, sachet machines, tinplate pails and cans and other metal containers, polyfoam, polystyrene, as well as equipment to vacuum pack meat, fish, cheese, confectionery, pasta, fruit, powders. • Packaging has moved way beyond the old concepts of “a box” – cheap as possible – in which to move produce from farm to store. • Before the consumer makes the buying decision, packaging must fulfil a number of basic criteria i.e. protecting the product and the consumer, providing information for informed choices, functional design and offering fair value. • In promoting your product, a fundamental requirement is that the produce should arrive at its destination in top condition. Packaging that offers strength (especially in stacking), correct ventilation, overall protection and that are “gentle” on the produce is essential. • A walk along any fresh produce market floor will emphasise the role of packaging in promoting fresh produce. Nothing looks better than a neatly stacked row of pallets boasting an attractive, branded, quality product for sale. (The contrast is brown, unattractive cartons, often bent and buckled, offering inferior quality to the cheap-line buyer). Source: Packaging C ouncil of South A frica (adapted)
“Often smaller farmers, far from the market, don’t see that other farmers get a higher price for the same quality, but better presentation. Whether on the market floor or in a supermarket, buying is based more on appearance than on eating quality. The buyer’s first glance is decisive.” Bill Kerr in an article “Presentation boosts profits”. Find it in the archives at www.farmersweekly.co.za
2. Some trends in agriculture • A major trend in the food industry is to make packaging more environmentally friendly and to increase the rate of recycling. • Local fresh produce buyers have refined logistics to where produce is packed in the field and stays in that container all the way through to the retailer’s shelf. • Bulk bins are used, but this is for produce that is intended for juicing. • Computerisation (bar coding) makes it possible for the producer or purchaser to trace any pallet, bulk bin or carton from the farm to the supermarket throughout the supply chain. For high value products RFID (Radio Frequency Identification Discs) tags are increasingly being used to counter fraud and control inventories. • Some of the repacking takes place overseas for two reasons: 1) to recheck the quality of the fruit received, and 2) to react quicker to the market demands. Source: Packaging C ouncil of South A frica
3. Roleplayers Associations Packaging Council of South Africa (PACSA) Tel: 011 463 9909 The Council is a national voluntary association of raw material suppliers, packaging converters and manufacturers. PACSA is a spokesbody for the industry in South Africa, dealing with issues like legislation, environment, etc.
Training and research Institute of Packaging SA (IPSA) Tel: 011 782 0233 www.ipsa.org.za
BMI Foodpack Tel: 011 450 1874 www.bmifoodpack.co.za Bowler Plastics Tel: 021 704 2223
The organisation is also a voluntary body focusing on industry professionalism via education. As part of its commitment to education the Institute of Packaging manages a packaging diploma programme and also runs the well known Goldpack and Student Goldpack Awards.
Boxmore Plastics International Tel: 058 624 2200 www.boxmore.co.za
FOODBEV Tel: 011 253 7300 www.foodbev.co.za
Secure packaging is essential to keep and protect the product inside the bag and must be able to withstand physical transport and handling during distribution toallow the bag to be received by the consumers in good condition. From manual and portable heat sealing and stitching machines for low production, to high speed industrial systems that are fitted over conveyors for continuous production, we are able to advise accordingly.
FoodBev is the Sector Education and Training Authority responsible for facilitating training in the food and beverages manufacturing sector. Packaging operations are included in its learning programmes. Find accredited training providers on the website. SA Agri Academy Tel: 021 880 1276 / 7 www.agriacademy.co.za
Buckle Packaging & Engineering (Pty) Limited Tel: 011 613 8024 www.bucklepack.co.za
Consol Ltd Tel: 011 874 0000 Packaging and packaging www.consol.co.za requirements is included in the training done on technical market Cotton Picker Plastic Products Tel: 011 801 3000 access requirements.
Companies AFCOM GE Hudson Tel: 011 627 7000 / 051 432 4758 www.afcom.co.za Agri Oranje Tel: 054 332 1004 Astrapak Ltd Tel: 011 784 5577 Azapac (Pty) Ltd Tel: 031 700 5816
Crown Bag Tel: 058 635 1167 www.crownbag.co.za Dairypack Tel: 011 494 4470 www.dairypack.co.za Diversified Paper & Plastics Tel: 011 616 4145 Gerber Packaging Tel: 011 652 0710 www.gerberfresh.co.za
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Goldpack Packaging Systems Tel: 031 569 4199 www.goldpack.co.za After sales technical support, as well as the supply of the consumable packaging materials, is provided through Goldpack’s various branch offices strategically located in the major industrial centers. Gundle Plastics Group Tel: 011 813 2180 www.gundle.co.za Heb Cooler Tel: 031 791 0005 www.hebcooler.co.za Hon Shin Group Tel: 021 552 5036 www.hsgroups.com Houers Koöperatief Bpk Tel: 015 345 8100 Huhtamaki Tel: 011 730 6300 www.huhtamaki.com IMIBALA Packing Tel: 021 874 3853 ILIP Packaging (Pty) Ltd Tel: 021 790 2364 International Bag Buyers Tel: 012 250 0120 www.internationalgroup.co.za
Linpac Materials Handling SA Tel: 011 314 2110 Metal Closures Group S.A. Ltd Tel: 011 616 1900 www.mcgindustries.com Mondipak Tel: 011 647 0595 www.mondipak.co.za Morningdew Farms Tel: 011 613 4266/7 Nampak Limited Tel: 011 719 6300 www.nampak.com National Packaging Systems KZN Tel: 031 700 2700 www.nationalpackagingsystems. co.za Nkanyamba Pumps and Packaging Tel: 011 821 5900 Pallet Supply Company Tel: 021 907 2300 www.palletsupply.co.za Rand Plastics (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 626 2630/5 Rheem South Africa Tel: 021 531 6661 Rotopack Tel: 011 849 7884
Knitted vegetable pockets, woven Sakpro vegetable pockets, (WPP) woven Tel: 011 692 1658 bags, cardboard and paper etc Sealed Air Africa Tel: 011 392 1870 Jumbo Bin Tel: 021 577 1205 Smart Farming Technologies Hadran Advanced Labelling Solutions KRB Safety and Packaging Ltd Tel: 011 674 1982
[email protected] www.k-r-b.com www.hadran-labelers.com LANDPAK Tetra Pak South Africa (Pty) Tel: 012 250 0120 Ltd. www.internationalgroup.co.za Tel: 011 570 3000 Packaging products include www.tetrapak.com cardboard and paper, fomo packs, soft plastics and miscellaneous Tristar Plastics (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 494 2103 items.
4. Recycling and Biodegradable Packaging • What better way is there to sell sustainable values than through that most important of marketing initiatives - packaging? Using the packaging to explain why consumers are seeing and holding less packaging presents a valuable opportunity that should not be missed. • How about this for a paradox: Reducing packaging will only increase its importance in promoting the brand. The old adage “Less is more” is true, after all. Source: Ted Mininni’s article “When it comes to packaging, less is more” on w w w.mediapost.com/publications (adapted)
The modern consumer has much less spare time and wants to spend this time doing things he or she enjoys. Much less time is spent in the kitchen, thanks to microwaves and the packaging technology that allows fresh readymade meals to be prepared in an instant. The amount of packaging ending up on landfills in SA is estimated to be well below 10% of total volume going to landfill. Nonetheless, throwaway packaging presents an opportunity to roleplayers. Source: Packaging C ouncil of South A frica and Susanne Dittke of EnviroSense (adapted)
Roleplayers Capespan Tel: 021 887 1134 www.experico.co.za
National Recycling Forum Tel: 011 675 3462 www.recycling.co.za
Capespan supplies British retailer, Tesco, with a biodegradable apple pack – both the tray and the flowwrap are biodegradable.
New Ice Inc of the US, a company dedicated to the development, production and marketing of compostable food packaging, has been granted patents in the US, Europe and some Asian countries that cover the manufacturing of a new class of compostable containers. Write to them at
[email protected] or visit www. newiceinc.com
EnviroSense Tel: 021 706 9829 www.cleanerproduction.co.za Greenhome Tel: 021 671 6033 www.greenhome.co.za A newsletter is also available
Planet Agro Ecology Concepts Tel: 011 887 0800
[email protected]
Lucent Packaging Tel: 011 788 9151
[email protected]
Tetra Pak South Africa Tel: 011 570 3000 www.tetrapak.co.za
Market a biodegradable and Ask for the Environmental compostable tray made from Manager cassava-starch as well as a range of Zero Emissions Research and products made from sugar cane. Initiatives (ZERI)
[email protected] National Cleaner Production www.zeri.org Centre Tell: 012 841 3634 www.ncpc.co.za
5. Websites and publications • A Handbook of Packaging Technology is a “most valuable information source for the African packaging industry” and is the prescribed text book for students at the Institute of Packaging SA. To order a copy contact the national secretariat at 011 782 0233 or email
[email protected]. • Packaging Review is the official journal of the Packaging Council of South Africa. Contact the editor by calling 011 835 2221 or by faxing 011 835 1943. • Another publication is Packaging & Print Media. Visit www.packagingmag. co.za or phone 021 712 1419 for more information. • Food & Beverage Reporter, which includes Packaging Reporter, is the widest-circulating printed magazine for the food, beverage and packaging industries in southern Africa. Contact 011 880 3682 or visit www.developtechnology.com. • Bizcommunity.com put out a weekly retail newsletter which includes a packaging heading. Call 021 680 3500 or visit http://retail.bizcommunity. com. • Book thirteen of the series Training manuals: cooperatives is called “Packaging, Pricing & Storage”. The books can be viewed at www.daff. gov.za/publications. • Ingeo bioplastics offers the food, cosmetics and other industries a new packaging material derived from sugar instead of petroleum. Read about it at www.natureworksllc.com. • Visit websites of associations and companies mentioned in this chapter e.g. www.ipsa.org.za.
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Inputs Pumps and generators See also the Boreholes and Windmills chapter
1. Associations involved There is both a South African Pump Manufacturers Association (SAPMA) and a Submersible Pump Association (SPA). In the past, SAPMA has provided a forum for members to air their views on matters affecting the industry. Not much is happening at either SAPMA or the SPA at present. The SAPMA website is www.sapma.net
2. Training and research In-house training on products and pumping systems is done for staff and distributors by companies involved in this industry.
2KG Training Tel: 011 325 0686 www.ipuc.co.za Training in pumps and pumping systems is offered, and aimed at both users and manufacturers. The company also offers pump manufacturing software and remote pump performance monitoring and consultancy.
3. Websites and publications Visit the different websites mentioned in this chapter. The Southern Cross Industries website, for example, has technical information on factors which you should bear in mind if pumping water from creeks, dams, bore drains or earth tanks. www.worldpumps.com covers developments in power generation, pulp and paper, food and drink, desaliniation – all the uses that pumps and generators could have. Call 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for the following publications, available from the ARC-Institute for Agricultural Engineering: • Petrol-driven irrigation pump for emerging farmers • A guide to manufacturing the kit treadle pump The topics of manure pumps (types suitable, considerations for pump installation etc) is dealt with in the publication Manure handling in intensive animal production units, written by HT Breedt, edited and revised by F Cilliers. Copyright. 2009. It is also available from the ARC-Institute for Agricultural Engineering. Visit the website of the British Pump manufacturer Association – www. bpma.org.uk
4. Companies involved Aesseal SA Tel: 011 466 6500 www.aesseal.co.za All Power Tel: 041 451 3936 www.allpower.co.za
Agrimaster Tel: 021 859 1816/7 Automotive Equipment International (AEI) Tel: 011 334 7650/3 www.aei.co.za
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Barloworld Power Perkins Tel: 011 898 0450 www.bwep.co.za
Heidelkor Tel: 016 341 6130/1 www.heidelkor.com
Red Rhino Tel: 011 668 1923/4 www.red-rhino.co.za
Verder Pumps SA Tel: 011 708 0880 www.verder.co.za
Diesel and gas engines supplied to the industrial, construction, agricultural, marine and electrical power generation markets. Based in Boksburg, they are responsible for providing parts, warranty, sales, service and technical support throughout the subcontinent.
Jomandi Generators Tel: 011 662 1371
[email protected]
Sable Data Works Tel: 011 476 1700
Warman Africa Tel: 011 617 0700 www.warman.co.za
Brisan Turbo Tel: 012 349 1934 www.brisanpumps.com B&S Commercial Power Tel: 021 982 6146 Continental Genset Supplies Tel: 018 431 1817/8
Kirloskar Group Tel: 011 493 3330 / 082 451 3635 Fax: 011 666 4745 Maiden Electronics Tel: 011 466 0899 www.maidenelectronics.co.za
McBeans Tel: 011 786 4204/5 Tel: 033 342 1541 www.mcbeans.co.za
Davy Pumps Tel: 082 322 7305 www.davypumps.co.za
New Way Power Systems Tel: 018 596 2007 www.newway.co.za
Denorco – see Franklin Electric
Nkanyamba Pumps and Packaging Tel: 011 821 5900
Elsumo (Pty) Ltd Tel: 021 875 5781 www.elsumo.co.za Ernest Electro Engineering Tel: 011 792 9550/1/2 www.ernestee.co.za Franklin Electric SA Tel: 011 723 6500 www.franklin-electric.co.za FTT Pumps (Edms) Bpk Tel: 041 487 0022 GEN-TEK Tel: 011 608 4676 www.gen-tek.co.za Genpower Tel: 0861 101 103 www.genpower.co.za
Pelargo Tel: 051 522 0397 Fax: 051 522 0415 Performa Pumps Tell: 011 845 1100 Perkins – see Barloworld Power Perkins Pump & Seal Services Tel: 011 894 5106/7
Rapid Allweiler Pump Engineering (Pty) Limited Tel: 011 573 7400 www.rapidpumps.co.za
Waterlinx Tel: 011 444 9116 www.waterlinx.co.za Watson Marlow Bredel SA Tel: 011 796 2965 www.watson-marlow.com Zakpower Tel: 011 803 5502 www.zakpower.co.za ZM Pumps Tel: 082 552 3917 www.zmpompe.co.za
Selecting a pump for a project is a team effort: the more the user can tell about his requirements (i.e. flow, head, levels, alternative duties), the easier it is for the supplier (and the user) to select the correct equipment. Here is a piece written by Gerhard Botha of New Way Power Systems – points to guide a “successful engine-driven generator application”. Write to him at
[email protected]
Considerations for proper hardware selection, from the engine manufacturer’s perspective, to achieve a successful engine-driven generator application.
Oddesse Tel: 011 792 9550 www.ernestee.co.za
Grundfos Tel: 011 579 4800 www.grundfos.co.za
Water Max Solar Pumps Tel: 041 451 3936 www.allpower.co.za
5. Commercial farmer points of interest
N and Z Instrumentation & Control Tel: 011 435 1080 www.nz.co.za
Pumps for Africa www.dayliff.com
Stewarts & Lloyds Tel: 0860 10 27 99 www.stewartsandlloyds.co.za
Vac-Cent Services Tel: 011 827 1536 www.vaccent.co.za
Northern Generator Services Tel: 012 346 5514 / 082 777 9483 www.northerngenerator.co.za
Genset Bemarking Tel: 018 469 4167
[email protected]
Southern Cross Industries Tel: 051 434 3575 www.southx.co.za
Sulzer South Africa Tel: 011 820 6000 www.sulzerpumps.com
“Power solutions for Africa”
Cyclone Industries cc Tel: 011 821 5900 www.cyclone.edx.co.za
DR Pumps Tel: 012 811 0224/9 www.drpumps.co.za
Salister Diesels Tel: 016 422 5501 www.lister.co.za
KSB Pumps Tel: 011 876 5600 www.ksbpumps.co.za
&
Generator basics • A generator may be either AC (Alternating Current) or DC (Direct Current). AC generators are also called alternators and are now so common that AC generator and generator has become synonymous terms. • An AC generator produces electrical current by passing a conductor through a flux field. On 15KW and smaller generator sets permanent magnets are typically used for the flux field, while larger sets use a DC current in field windings. The AC generator’s output current is generated when the armature windings cut the flux field. Regulating the DC current in the field windings, controls voltage. • Early AC generators used a fixed field and a rotating armature. The modern AC generators use rotating field windings with a stationary armature to produce output current. The rotating field is called the rotor and the stationary armature is the stator. An exciter generates the DC current for the rotating field. The exciter can either be static or rotating. Sizing generators • Three ways of sizing a generator set are: Peak Load, Motor Starting and Transient Response. • When sizing for Peak Load, the installer calculates the maximum kilowatt electrical load and selects a generator set with equal or greater kilowatt capacity.
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• To size an engine for Motor Starting, the installer determines the maximum motor starting current (inrush current) together with any other loads and selects a generator set with equal or greater kilowatt capacity. Since typical motor starting current is five times running current, maximum voltage dip occurs during motor starting. Smaller generator set sizes can be used when motors have sequential starting or use reduced voltage starting. Sequential starting spreads out the inrush load of several motors, while reduced voltage starting lowers individual motor starting current. • Transient response sizing is based on the ability of the generator set to accept a load and recover to normal frequency and voltage within a specified time. Transient response is typically checked by block loading the set with a load bank. • The customer must specify the limits for maximum voltage dip, recovery time and power factor. Power factor • When an AC circuit is composed of a pure resistive load, the current wave is in phase with the voltage wave. With a pure inductance load the wave lags the voltage wave by 90 degrees. A pure capacitance load will have a current wave that leads the voltage wave by 90 degrees. The inductance and capacitance waves do not consume engine power, but they do increase the current flow in the generator and are measured by the ammeter. For this reason inductance and capacitance are sometimes called “reactive” power or “wattles” power. • Watts or kilowatts are real power. With a resistive load, watts equal volts times amperes. If inductance or reactance is in the load, the current will be higher, so multiplying volts times amperes gives a result that is more than the real power. Therefore volts times amperes is called apparent power and is measured in kilovolt-amperes or kVA. Real power (kW) divided by apparent power (kVA) is the power factor or PF. Technically PF equals cosine q, where q is the phase angle between the voltage wave and the current wave. • kW = Real Power= kVA x PF • kVA = Apparent Power • PF = kW/kVA = Real Power/Apparent Power Excess capacity • The typical generator set runs at less than its full capacity most of the time. As the load decreases, the operating efficiency of the engine decreases which increases cost per produced kilowatt. This not a major concern for Standby generator sets. However, the increased cost of operating Prime and Continuous systems at decreased loads can be significant. • Part load operation also allows unburned fuel to gather in the engine exhaust and lubrication systems. This type of operation can result in unsightly leakage from the exhaust system, as well as increased maintenance costs. An oversized engine will more likely have these problems. A generator set operates best from 50% to 90% of full rated load. Long-term operation at less than 30% of full load is not recommended. Single phase and three phase power • Single phase (1f) AC consists of either one or two voltages in series with exactly the same phase relationship. Single phase AC supplies power over two or three lines. • Three phase (3f) consists of three separate voltages spaced 120 electrical degrees apart, using three lines plus a neutral line. The phases are usually given letter designations (Phase A, Phase B, Phase C). Not two phases are at zero voltage at the same time. No two phases are at peak voltage at the same time. Exercising Standby generator sets are exercised on a regular basis to ensure readiness when needed. Exercising for short periods of time with no load is detrimental to the engine. The engine is best exercised when run for 30 minutes or more with 50% to 75% load. This allows the engine to run at normal operating temperatures. Balanced three phase loads Generators should have the resistive and inductive loads balanced on each phase. A phase imbalance of more than 5% will cause unstable voltage regulation. This problem cannot be corrected with engine or generator adjustments. The distribution circuits should be rearranged until balance can be achieved.
Inputs Seeds and seedlings 1. Overview Find the latest Annual Report on www.sansor.org. Included are reports given by the Chairman and General Manager, and then each of the following are addressed: • • • • • • • • • •
Agronomy Horticulture Forage National Seeds Certification Plant Breeders’ Rights Licences Phytosanitary Issues Plant Breeding Seed Analysts Genetically Modified Seed Industry Issues
2. Associations involved South African National Seed Organisation (SANSOR) Tel: 012 349 1438/9 www.sansor.org
Seedling Growers Association of SA Tel: 033 343 1285 / 082 562 7167 www.seedlinggrowers.co.za
Etablished in 1989, SANSOR assumes the position of watchdog to ensure that standards are maintained.
Grassland Society of Southern Africa Tel: 049 842 4335 / 083 256 7202 www.grassland.org.za
Southern African Plant Breeders’ Association
[email protected] www.sapba.co.za
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Directorate: Genetic Resources Directorate: Food Safety and Tel: 012 319 6024 Quality Assurance Agricultural Production Inputs Directorate: Plant Health (Sub-directorate) Tel: 012 319 6505/39 Tel: 012 319 7036 Directorate: Plant Productions Tel: 012 319 6079
Registration of crop protection chemicals, seed treatments, fertilisers.
The seed industry is regulated under the Plant Improvement Act, 1976 (Act No. 53 of 1976) to ensure orderly trade in seed. This Act makes provision for the registration of premises from which the sale, cleaning and packing of seed may be undertaken and to prescribe the conditions subject to which seed may be sold. Included in the Act is provision for the establishment of certification and other schemes and it also provides for the designation of the authority that shall exercise the powers, perform the functions and carry out the duties conferred upon them. SANSOR has been appointed as the designated body to administer seed certification schemes under the Plant Improvement Act of 1976. The South African Seed Certification Scheme is a legally prescribed scheme underwritten by provision of this legislation. However, participation in seed certification is voluntary. The basic objective of seed certification is to make seed of superior quality available and guarantee the quality by means of a certificate, seal and label. The emphasis is on genetic quality i.e. varietal
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true-to-type, with high requirements of germination and physical purity. Strict field requirements are laid down for seed production. Seed testing started in South Africa in the late 1940s. The Official Seed Testing Station (OSTS) is based at Roodeplaat. The OSTS has as its aim to ensure the physical and physiological quality of seed. Its functions include the development of policy and guidelines for the physical and physiological quality of seed and also to control, investigate and maintain seed quality. A system has been introduced whereby private and company seed testing laboratories are able to register and conduct tests for own purposes, test seed for certification purposes and also advertise their testing services at a cost. Currently 24 such laboratories are registered in accordance with the prescriptions in the PIA whereby testing of approximately 35 000 seed samples takes place on an annual basis. This frees the OSTS to deliver an official service in terms of legislation. Refer also to the “Intellectual Property” and “Plant breeding and biotechnology” chapters.
4. Training and research Training of seed inspectors began with SANSOR and developed into an ongoing programme. Some 230 private seed inspectors report to SANSOR in the execution of functions under the certification schemes. Training courses for seed analysts have been ongoing. Because of this, the seed trade was in a position to react rapidly by establishing an accredited, national Sub-Sector Unit for Seed in terms of the new Skills Development Act. SANSOR’s experience has shown that training: • improves quality and efficiency of employees; • ensures adherence to quality standards; • provides spin-offs by conveying expertise to others. SANSOR runs courses in conjunction with Mpontshe Training Provider. The course consists of the following modules: • Introductory course to the seed industry • Background course to the seed industry (includes seed processing, handling, licensing, grading, production amongst other lectures) • Legislation (includes the GMO, Plant Improvement and Plant Breeder’s Acts amongst others) • Seed Certification scheme (includes certification steps, inspection times and field methods amongst others) • Sampling • Seed physiology and Technology • Practical Evaluation The ARC institutes do research. They breed new cultivars on different crops, and produce breeder seed for these cultivars developed in breeding projects. Training courses on crop and cultivar selection are also run. Find their details in the Science & Research chapter. Stellenbosch University Department Genetics: Plant Breeding Tel: 021 808 4680
[email protected] University of the Free State Department of Plant Sciences Tel: 051 401 2514
Department of Soil, Crop and Climate Tel: 051 401 2212 University of KwaZulu-Natal School of Agricultural Sciences and Agribusiness Tel: 033 260 5808 University of Pretoria Department of Plant Production and Soil Sciences Tel: 012 420 3227 Department of Plant Science Tel: 012 420 2487
5. Websites and publications • The websites of companies and associations involved are a useful source of information. • Companies involved supply customers with growing guides and technical information on how to get the most out of seeds supplied. • Biowatch South Africa’s Outreach Facilitators give training in low-cost and organic agricultural methods. Included in this is the concept of starting a seed bank. Read about more at www.biowatch.org.za
6. Companies involved Find SANSOR member lists (by crop and by activity type) on www.sansor. co.za. Find contact details of nurseries in KwaZulu-Natal,the Eastern Cape and Western Cape on www.seedlinggrowers.co.za, the website of the Seedling Growers Association of South Africa A Ford & Co (Western Cape) Tel: 021 850 0011
[email protected] AC Seeds (Eastern Cape) Tel: 042 291 0849
[email protected]
McDonald’s Seeds (KwaZulu-Natal) Tel: 033 346 0121 Monsanto SA Tel: 011 790 8200 Fax: 011 790 8350 www.monsanto.co.za
Agricol (Edms) Bpk Tel: 021 981 1126 www.agricol.co.za
Pannar Seed (Pty) Ltd Tel: 033 413 9500 / 9583 Fax: 033 413 1097 www.pannar.com
Capstone Seeds Tel: 033 330 4474 www.capstone.co.za
Pioneer Hi-Bred RSA (Pty) Ltd Tel: 012 683 5700 www.pioneer.com
Dicla Farm & Seed Tel: 011 662 1371 Fax: 011 662 1363 www.dicla.com
SAKATA Seed Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 548 2800 Fax: 011 548 2820 www.sakata.com
ELECTROLEE Tel: 012 347 9933 www.electrolee.co.za ENVIROGROW (Mpumalanga, Gauteng, North West, Eastern Free State and Northern Cape) Tel: 011 605 2231/2/5
[email protected] GWK Ltd Tel: 053 298 8200 www.gwk.co.za
Free State area and Northern Cape Tel: 051 522 6374
[email protected] Seedplan (Eastern Cape) Tel: 043 732 1307
[email protected] Senwes Ltd Tel: 018 473 1761
[email protected]
Find contact details for all trade Spoedwel Agriculture branches on their website. (Gauteng, Limpopo and North West provinces) Hygrotech SA (Pty) Ltd Tel: 087 751 4372 Tel: 021 881 3830
[email protected] Spoedwel North www.hygrotech.co.za (Limpopo and Mpumalanga) Tel: 015 307 4710 Kaap Agri
[email protected] Tel: 022 482 8000 / 8049
[email protected] Starke Ayres www.kaapagri.co.za Tel: 021 534 3231 www.starkeayres.co.za Find contact details for all trade branches on their website. Top Crop Nursery Tel: 033 569 1333 Klein Karoo Seed Marketing
[email protected] (Pty) Ltd Tel: 044 203 5180 www.seedmarketing.co.za
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7. Local business environment The Annual Report, available on www.sansor.org, provides updates. Below is an excerpt from the 2007/08 report: • The South African Seed Industry displayed an actual turnover of more than R2.5 milliard (USD278 million). This was made up primarily by winter and summer grain crops (74%), vegetables (16%), pasture and forage species (9%), with flowers accounting for approximately 1%. • Genetically modified seed of cotton accounted for approximately 96% of local cottonseed sales, whilst this estimate was 88% and 52% for genetically modified soybean and maize seed respectively. The demand for hybrid seed obtained through conventional breeding was still the main driving force on most markets, both locally and abroad, whilst the market for open-pollinated cultivated varieties was limited to mainly Sub-Saharan Africa.
8. International business environment The Annual Report, available on www.sansor.org, provides updates. Both the International Seed Federation (ISF) and the African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA) have recently had South African presidents – Mr Deon van Rooyen of Pannar Seed and Mr Mark Sachs of SAKATA Seed Southern Africa respectively. South Africa hosted the 2009 African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA) Congress in Cape Town. African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA) – www.afsta.org. AFSTA, the African Seed Trade Association, represents the seed industry in Africa and the Indian Ocean islands. It is a non-profit, non-political association with a mission to promote development of seed industry and national seed associations, which will facilitate farmers’ access to improved varieties. Other regional and international bodies include: • Association for Strengthening Agricultural Research in Eastern and Central Africa (ASARECA) – www.asareca.org • International Seed Federation (ISF) – www.worldseed.org • International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) – www.seedtest.org • West African Seed and Planting Material Network (WASNET) – www. wasnet.org • Global Crop Diversity Trust – www.croptrust.org An interesting international event has been the construction of the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. It is a “doomsday vault carved into a frozen mountainside in the archipelago of Svalbard, a few hundred kilometres from the North Pole. The huge cavern – backed by the Norwegian government and the Gates Foundation – will be filled with more than a million types of seed.The bread you eat today is made from very different wheat strains from the bread you had 10 years ago.
9. Aspects to consider when deciding what to plant Environment • Make sure the soil is suitable for the proposed crops. Take into account soil depth, texture, acidity and salinity. • Study the rainfall and temperature pattern over the various seasons when deciding which crop can be grown successfully at different times of the year.
Cultivar • Ensure that the cultivar to be planted is adaptable to the prevailing conditions. Consider yield potential, tolerance to drought and acidity, length of growing season, disease and insect resistance, lodging, sprouting or prolificacy (multiple cobs) and intended use. However, in some instances, rotation of cultivars can be used to spread the risk of entire crop loss from infestation and to maintain a high biological diversity. Note: The use of certified seed is highly recommended. Consult an expert, a seed merchant, or the local co-operative to obtain information on cultivars recommended for a specific area.
Planting dates • Make sure of the correct planting dates of each crops and for each region.
Fertilisation • Make sure that the soil has sufficient nutrient content for crop growth by using fertiliser before planting and/or top dressing. Compost or organic matter (manure) should be applied three to four weeks before planting. • Fertiliser can be applied when the results from soil analysis will tell you what nutrients are required in the soil, with the type of fertiliser to use recommended. To have soil analysed, contact the Department of Agriculture or ARC in your area, an extension officer, or one of the roleplayers from the Soils chapter. The type of fertiliser best suited often depends on the expected yield and the previous crop (in the case of crop rotation). • The optimum pH for most crops is 4,5 to 5,5 (KCI). Lime should be applied in the case of soils with a pH of below 4,5. Poultry manure also alleviates low pH problems.
Seedbed preparation • A plough or tined implement can be used for primary cultivation. Ploughing is, however, not recommended for sandy soils that are susceptible to erosion. • Wind erosion is an important factor that should always be taken into account. In areas where wind is a problem, conservation tillage (zero or minimum cultivation and use of stubble or mulch) is recommended. • The seedbed should be firm and weed free. In cases where wind erosion is a problem, the seedbed should not be too fine.
The old strains – which can date back hundreds of years – are a crucial resource, nevertheless. Their seeds may prove invaluable as environments alter. Varieties discarded for more bountiful but less hardy types could regain their usefulness. By 2030, for instance, current strains of maize will no longer be able to grow in South Africa because of rising temperatures. Possessing old types of maize seed as a basic resource could be invaluable, say scientists.
Planting spacing and depth
The Global Crop Diversity Trust, which is building the vault, looked for a site that was remote but accessible, and which was so cold that there would be no problem if the refrigeration equipment failed.
Planting method
Source: Mail & Guardian 11 November 2007, Mail & Guardian 24 February 2008.
• Planting depth is determined by the moisture status of the soil, as well as clay fraction and the soil type. • Generally bigger seeds can be planted deep and smaller seeds shallow. • The spacing between plants is wider in low rainfall areas.
• All the crops mentioned in the table can be planted mechanically or by hand. In the latter case, a hand hoe or spade can be used. • Do not compact the soil, but firm it down to ensure good soil/seed contact.
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Economy • Before planting, note the inputs required and estimate the costs. Don’t look at the cost of individual products in isolation, but at the combination of them all. At times, you might need to invest more at the beginning of the season but will find you need to spend much less towards the end of the season. • Consider product marketability before planting. Compare the input costs to the crop income.
Diseases and insect pests • Crops belonging to the same family are often attacked by the same group of pests and diseases. Related crops should therefore not be included in successive plantings or even in the same three-year rotation programme (e.g. cowpeas, groundnuts, bambara groundnuts, soyabeans). • Pesticides should be used as recommended to prevent yield loss • Fields should be inspected on a regular basis to spot pests at an early stage, especially in the case of maize and cotton. • Pesticides can be applied manually or mechanically.
Remember: When using chemicals, you need to use protective clothing for your eyes, face and skin. You also need to ensure that all chemicals are stored separate from food, feed and seed and locked away from children. Remember too that it is important to read and follow instructions on labels.
Harvesting • Most crops can be harvested mechanically or by hand. These methods can also be combined. If harvesting is done by hand, threshing can be either mechanical or by hand. • Watch out for seed damage during harvesting (especially to legumes). Gradual growth • Do as much as possible in the first season. Spend as much as you can afford in the first season for inputs and increase expenditure in the second season (e.g. work on 1ha or less first and make enough money and gain enough experience to expand to 2ha or more in the second season).
Weeds • A weed free environment during seedling emergence time is highly recommended because by the time the weeds germinate the crop will be well established and have a competitive advantage. Weeds can be controlled by hand, mechanically, or by the use of herbicides (especially when using conservation tillage), or a combination of the three methods. • In the case of chemical control, particular attention must be given to herbicides’ residual periods, during which the remedy is active in the soil.If a system of crop rotation is followed, the herbicide applied may damage follow-up crops. • Bear in mind that the clay fraction of the soil has an influence on the quality and quantity of the herbicide needed – refer to the product guidelines.
Source: w w w.sansor.org – A C rop Guide for Emerging Farmers. Our thanks to SANSOR for feedback on the draft chapter
Highveld
Middleveld
Lowveld
Northern KwaZuluCape & Natal Great Midlands Karoo
Eastern Sowing Cape & depth Little Karoo (cm)
Seed (kg/ha)
Spacing in rows (in cm)
Spacing between rows
Bambara groundnut
Oct
MidNovember
Oct-Nov
Not applicable
Oct- mid Nov
N/A
5
50
15
90
Cow-peas
Oct - Jan
Oct - Jan
Oct - Jan
Oct - dec
Oct - Jan
Oct – Jan
4–5
40
15
90
Cotton
N/A
mid Oct Nov
mid Oct Nov
mid Oct Nov
N/A
N/A
4-5
20 – 25
15 – 20
100
Dry Beans
Nov - Dec
Jan – mid Feb
Mar - April
20 Dec – 15 Jan
15 Dec – 15 Jan
Dec – 15 Jan
5
60 – 75
7.5
75 – 90
Groundnuts
20 Oct – 20 Nov
20 Oct – 20 Nov
15 Oct – 30 Nov
20 Oct – 30 Nov
20 Oct – 30 Nov
N/A
5-7
50
7.5
90
Maize
Oct - Nov
Nov - Dec
N/A
Nov - Dec Oct - Nov
Oct – Nov
4–5
6 – 12
30
90 - 230
Sunflowers
Oct - Nov
Oct - Jan
N/A
N/A
Oct - Nov
Oct – Nov
5
3
30
60 - 90
Soybeans
Oct - Nov
Nov
Oct
N/A
Oct - Nov
N/A
3–5
65 – 80
20
90
Wheat
May - Aug
May - Jul
N/A
May - Jul
May - Jun
Jun - Jul
4-5
70 - 130
20
30 - 45
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Inputs Structures and building supplies Buildings are also covered in the Human Settlements and Labour chapters
1. Roleplayers ARC-Institute for Agricultural Engineering (ARC-IAE) Tel: 012 842 4000 www.arc.agric.za The ARC-IAE is involved the designing, testing and development of farm structures, stores, workshops, labour housing and appropriate animal housing/ handling facilities Amatola Tel: 043 732 1927
[email protected] B & T Structures Tel: 013 665 1914 / 1966 www.btsteel.co.za BANBRIC BUILDING Tel: 033 396 0882
[email protected] www.banbric.co.za Bison Construction Cell: 072 878 0654
[email protected] BPB Gypsum Tel: 011 873 2401 Breathecoat Paints Tel: 0861 000 435 www.breathecoat.co.za
Holcim Tel: 011 670 5500 www.holcim.co.za Homescor Wonings Tel: 011 892 1045 www.homescor.co.za Hough Structures Tel: 016 366 1960 IG Construction Tel: 011 696 1119 Jet Vest Steel Structures Tel: 012 258 0385 Lookout Trailer & Lift www.lookoutlifts.co.za Magna Housing Tel: 011 828 2452 Mittal Steel Tel: 016 889 4110 www.mittalsteel.com Modek Tel: 011 398 8200 www.modek.co.za PATT Projects Tel: 012 811 0125/0753 www.pattprojects.co.za
Cheeta Nutec Asbeshuise Tel: 012 546 1950
Rhino Steelhouses Tel: 012 549 0230
Chemvet Tel: 011 437 9000 www.chemvet.co.za
SM Structures Tel: 011 786 1043 www.stemansteel.co.za
Dolfyn Staal Produkte Tel: 056 515 1985
Space Steel Tel: 011 693 3180
Econo Steel Structures Tel: 012 254 0496 Fax: 012 254 2361
Span Africa Steel Structures Tel: 033 346 2555 www.spanafrica.co.za
Ezehut Products Tel: 012 803 7433 www.ezehut.co.za
Steel Space Frame Structures Tel: 011 675 7491
Harding Treated Timber Tel: 039 433 1805
VIP Construction Tel: 011 952 2331
[email protected]
Tugela Steel Tel: 031 566 4601 www.tugela.co.za
WEP Engineering & Construction Tel: 011 967 1574 www.wepeng.co.za
2. Websites and publications Call 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for the following publications, available from the ARC in Silverton:
Pro-spec A South African manufacturer and Tel: 033 330 2295 producer of quality, eco-friendly Tel: 021 982 0222 paints (lead and solvent free) www.pro-spec.co.za
FinnBUILDER Tel: 011 705 1897 www.finnbuilder.co.za
Telgo Trading Tel: 082 899 0655
[email protected]
Structures 2000 Tel: 011 974 4797
[email protected] Styrox Tel: 083 290 2482 / 011 883 6954 www.styrox.co.za
• • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Manual on housing for pigs (also available in Afrikaans) Extensive pig housing (also available in Afrikaans) Beef cattle facilities manual (also available in Afrikaans) Dairy cattle facilities manual (also available in Afrikaans) Manual on sheep facilities (also available in Afrikaans) Small-scale broiler house (also available in Afrikaans) Heating of broilers and broiler housing Small-scale poultry housing in South Africa Concrete on the farm (also available in Afrikaans) Building of permanent trench and bunker silage silos (also available in Afrikaans) Manual for the construction of grain silos for farm storage (also available in Afrikaans) Structures and equipment for the storage and handling of grain on the farm Small-scale milking shed (also available in Afrikaans) Agricultural structures and facilities database (suppliers of livestock/ agricultural equiment) – also available in Afrikaans
And only available in Afrikaans: • Afkoel van melkbeeste in Suid-Afrika • Lae-koste melkverkoeling • Handleiding oor volstruisbehuising Also available from the same ARC Institute is Manure handling in intensive animal production units, written by HT Breedt, edited and revised by F Cilliers. Copyright. 2009. This publication includes notes on the optimal structure and location of different farm buildings in relation to the management of livestock manure Visit www.saili.co.za, website of the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers. Publications which overlap with Water storage, fencing and undercover growing/ hydroponics are listed in those chapters.
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Inputs Tractors, combines and balers 1. Overview Find the “Latest Month” report on www.saama.co.za, website of the South African Agricultural Machinery Association
2. Associations involved SA Agricultural Machinery Association (SAAMA) Tel: 011 453 7249 www.saama.co.za
The ARC-IAE possesses a tractor testing laboratory, where power take off tests on tractors are performed strictly according to the ISO 789-1 international standard. This institute also tests agricultural implements and is involved in research and development with regards to implements and tractor utilisation. Training can be provided in basic mechanisation concepts and mechanisation planning. Several AgriSETA accredited groups run tractor and tractor-related courses. Examples include: • • • • •
Dewcrisp Tel: 011 840 1600 Koue Bokkeveld Training Centre Tel: 023 317 0983 Skills for Africa Tel: 012 379 4920 www.skillsafrica.co.za Phezukomkhono Training Services Tel: 044 279 3288 SA Sugarcane Research Institute (SASRI) Tel: 031 508 7404 carolyn.
[email protected] • Protea Training Centre Tel/fax: 021 982 4580
[email protected] Suppliers like New Holland and John Deere run training courses, both for clients as well as for others.
South African Haulage Tractor Transport Association Tel: 011 453 7249
SA Society for Agricultural Mechanisation Tel: 033 343 3496
3. Training and research ARC-Institute for Agricultural Engineering (IAE) Tel: 012 842 4000 www.arc.agric.za
Producer organisations like Grain SA have courses: Grain SA Tel: 056 515 2145 Tractor mechanical, maintenance on High Application Tractors and a contractor’s course are three of the training courses they offer. The contractors course is for the farmer who owns vehicles or implements and who wishes to allow others to make use of these – there are some things of which he should be aware.
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4. Websites and publications • www.saama.co.za – SA Agricultural Machinery Association • www.agfacts.co.za – Agricultural Facts News Brief • www.trekkerwerf.co.za – a Landbouweekblad initiative The publications below are available from Agfacts): • Agfacts Agricultural Machinery Price Comparisons – White Book. This detailed monthly pricing report covers tractors, combine harvesters and attachments, hay and forage machinery, planters, fertiliser spreaders and spray equipment available on the South African market. • Agfacts Newsbrief. The AGFACTS Newsbrief appears on a monthly basis and contains current information on conditions within and connected to the South African agricultural machinery industry. • Agfacts Used Tractor Price Guide – Blue Book. This is a quarterly report, available on annual subscription. It is the most comprehensive guide to used tractor prices available in South Africa. It also contains new prices and abbreviated specifications on new tractors currently available in South Africa. • Agfacts Tractor prices/Specifications – Green Book. This is a quarterly report, available on annual subscription. It contains the latest prices of all tractor models available in South Africa, together with abbreviated specifications. • Agfacts Tractor Guide – Grey Book. This publication contains detailed specifications of all tractor models available in South Africa.
Other publications: • Meganisasiegids. The greater and more important costs of mechanisation arise from using equipment to carry out the various functions e.g. ploughing, disking, harrowing etc. The book consists chiefly of tables which make it possible to work out costs per hour or per hectare with a specific tractor, fuel usage (litre/hour or litre/hectare) and more. The Meganisasiegids can be ordered from Koos le Roux. Call 012 998 2803 or 082 828 9531. • Kejafa Knowledge Works has books on mechanisation. Call 014 577 0005. Call 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for the following publications, available from the ARC-Institute for Agricultural Engineering: • • • •
Tractor Maintenance (Training manual) Field capacities of agricultural machines & tractor performance Werktempos van landbouwerktuie & trekkerwerkverrigting Tractor performance optimisation
5. Companies involved SAAMA members: For the list of SAAMA members, go to www.agfacts.co.za – take the Services and SAAMA menu options. AGFACTS Tel: 011 453 7249 AgroTractor House Tel: 011 423 2325 www.agrotractor.co.za AIM Group Tel: 011 394 3800 Andrag Agrico Tel: 021 950 4111 www.andragagrico.co.za ARGO Industrial Tel: 011 914 1700 www.argosa.co.za www.landini.co.za Barloworld Equipment Agriculture Tel: 011 898 0450/80 www.barloworld-agri.com Bell Equipment Tel: 035 907 9199 Carel van Niekerk Engineering Tel: 022 913 2435
Farmyard Tel: 082 959 2196 www.farm-yard.co.za Authorised Jinma Tractor dealer Foton Tractors Tel: 033 263 1305 www.fotontractors.co.za GC Tillage Tel: 017 702 3028 Hinomoto Tel: 010 222 0670/082 379 0290 www.hinomoto.co.za Indo Trak Tel: 011 664 8852 www.indoplast.co.za Irrimec Tel: 032 944 5679/81/83 www.irrimecsa.com Sonalika tractors John Deere Tel: 011 437 2600 www.deere.com/sa
Donaldson Filtration Systems Tel: 011 997 6000/021 530 2900 Kirloskar www.donaldson.co.za Tel: 011 493 3330 / 082 451 3635 Fax: 011 493 3336 Ernest H Johnson Tel: 011 613 8711 Kongskilde SA (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 894 2341/5 Falcon Agricultural Equipment www.kongskilde.com Tel: 033 330 4764 www.falconequipment.co.za Kverneland Tel: 033 345 2733 Farmtrac www.kvernelandgroup.com Tel: 011 662 1371
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Mahindra SA Tel: 012 661 3161 Manitou Tel: 011 975 7770 www.manitousa.co.za New Holland SA Tel: 011 922 2000 www.nhsa.co.za Northmec Tel: 011 922 2000 www.northmec.co.za Orbach Agri Tel: 016 424 1145 www.orbach.co.za Radium Engineering Tel: 012 719 9062 Response Group Trendline www.response.co.za Rovic & Leers Tel: 021 905 1158 www.rovic.com
Smith Power Equipment Tel: 086 176 4847 www.smithturf.co.za Kubota tractors Southtrade Tel: 021 981 6044 Staalmeester Agricultural Imports Tel: 018 431 0300 Valtrac Tel: 056 817 7308 www.valtrac.co.za VB Agri Tel: 021 883 9595/6 www.vbagri.co.za Lamborghini tractors VITAMECH Tel: 021 907 8000 www.vitamech.co.za
Your local agribusiness / co-operative e.g. AFGRI, Suidwes (Wesmeg), GWK, Kaap Agri and VKB. Their websites often include new and used agricultural machinery menu options.
6. Local business environment Find the Chairman’s Report on www.saama.co.za or www.agfacts.co.za for an updated economic overview.
• The estimated value of the South African agricultural machinery market was R6.1 billion. • Statistics released by AGFACTS in 2009 showed that since 1994 the average age of tractors has been declining. The AGFACTS Newsbrief appears on a monthly basis. Subscribing to it gives you the following: • a concise, four page summary of current factors affecting the South African agricultural machinery industry; • the latest retail tractor sales information for the month and the yearto-date; • on a quarterly basis, the latest retail combine harvester and baler sales information for the quarter and the year-to-date; • the latest information on agricultural machinery price changes by category; • the latest information on crop prospects, whether it be summer or winter crops, intentions to planting or crop forecasts; and • subjects such as size and age make-up of the South African tractor “park”, the used tractor market, the breakdown of tractors available in South Africa by manufacturer and model and future tractor sales prospects.
From the SAAMA chairman’s report at the 2009 AGM: “Coming from a record sales year in 2008 and facing a rapidly deteriorating business environment in 2009 due to the worst global economic crises since 1932, all expectations were however exceeded by the level of agricultural equipment business conducted through 2009. Though we notice the impact on year to date tractor sales to reflect a 21% drop in volume, combine sales were less affected while the demand for new technology products such as productive fuel efficient tractors, self propelled sprayers, precision farming systems and no-till equipment remained in demand”.
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The chairman listed the following positive factors for the 2009 year:
8. Small-Scale farmer information
The agricultural industry fortunately experienced favourable climatic conditions through 2008/2009 across most of the main crop production territories which supported high average yields for summer crops and other production commodities, softening to some extent the full impact of lower commodity prices and high production cost. As maize and wheat production remains a significant driver to the success of the agricultural mechanisation business in South Africa, it is important to emphasise the significance in productivity gains and improved sustainability of farming operations that have been achieved by producers over recent years.
Although tractors may work more quickly than draught animals, they are expensive to buy, to maintain and repair. In the first and second year the repair costs are not that high. But by the time the tractor is five years old, more things start going wrong and repairs become more expensive.
Recognising the advancements achieved through the availability of new plant bio-genetics, factors such as the large scale investment in new and improved production practices, investment into new advanced equipment and technologies, as well as the professional management practices applied by producers, have been paramount to the success we experience today in the mechanisation industry.
Buying tractors: Since the tractor is expensive, farmers may end up spending more on ploughing than on what they get from selling their crops. Options are to hire a tractor, or perhaps better, to buy a tractor together as a group of farmers.
Size of tractor: If you have large areas of land, a bigger tractor pulling larger implements will do the work more quickly. If your area of land is less than 10 hectares, then buying a big tractor is a waste of money.
Maintaining your tractor:
Source: SA A MA C hairman’s report, 2009. Find it at w w w.saama.co.za
7. Commercial farmer points of interest
When Everyday
Clean the air pre-cleanerCheck the oil, water and tyre pressure
Every 50 hours
Grease the hydraulic lift nipples, kingpin nipples, front axles, brake and clutch nipples.Check and clean the air filter/oil bath.Drain condensate from the first fuel filterTighten all nuts and bolts, check for leaks. Check battery, clean connections with baking soda and water.
Every 100 hours
Check the alternation fan belt tension Drain oil, change oil filter and first fuel filterCheck and top up, if necessary, gear box, differential and hydraulic oil levers.
After every 1000 hours
Get a trained mechanic to set tappets and calibrate injectors and to see if it needs any other servicing or repairs.
It is possible to equip a wide range of tractors with programmes linked to satellites that enable the tractor to “drive itself”. Precision farming is the way of the future for the commercial farmer in the quest to limit wastages and improve efficiency, and these programmes play a vital roll in this farming method. For more information, enquire at your dealer.
Buying equipment is one of the largest investments that a farm business can make. Furthermore, the machinery needs to be constantly maintained and eventually replaced. The provision for capital replacement is therefore very important. When buying machinery, large amounts of money are committed and some of the equipment is used only a few times during the year, and in many cases it is difficult to sell this equipment at a suitable trade value. You need to analyse and evaluate your future capital replacements carefully. Planning when and how the equipment will be replaced can mean a difference of thousands of rands in annual production costs. An article run in AgriReview looks at the following options: • • • •
Keep [machinery] until it no longer functions. Replace when cash is available. Replace something every year. Replace regularly.
Find the article “Provision for capital replacement” in A griReview 1st Q uarter 2007 on w w w.standardbank.co.za, or contact Standard Bank Vehicle and A sset Finance at 0860 000 000
You can extend the life of your air filter by removing up to 90% of the dirt and contaminants before it reaches the filter. The pre-cleaners are designed especially for equipment operating in very heavy dust and debris environments such as agricultural and construction vehicles and mining equipment. The Donaspin™ Pre-cleaner has a durable, corrosion-resistant steel construction. There is no maintenance required and it has no moving parts. The Pre-cleaners are self-cleaning and require no maintenance. They also offer a lower restriction which means: • Your engine “breathes” easier • You can reduce air filter element usage • You will have lower costs per operating hour Source: Donaldson Filtration Systems Pty (Ltd). Call 011 9976000 or visit www.donaldson.co.za
What to do
It is possible for Emerging Farmers to spend more on repairing their tractors than it costs to buy a new tractor. If a group of farmers is starting a tractor hire scheme, then they should always put money into a fund to pay for a new tractor, and include this fund in their hire charges. (They should also remember that tractor prices increase). Source: The People’s Guide to Farming – Grow ing Plants Handbook by the Environmental & Development agency trust and Juta Education. O ur thanks to Donaldson Filtration Systems for feedback on the information.
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9. Buying a second-hand tractor When you buy a second-hand tractor from a garage, ask if there is a guarantee (an agreement with the seller that you can return an item or get it repaired if something is wrong with it). Guarantees for second-hand tractors are usually only for three months. If you are buying from another farmer, then try to find out why he or she is selling the tractor. Try to ask the tractor driver if the tractor has given a lot of trouble. Is there something seriously wrong with the tractor? Try the following test when you go to at the tractor. Take a friend who knows about tractors and who can do these tests with you, if you have no experience with tractors. Check the air filter. If it is a paper filter, then it will have two rubber seals glued at both ends of the cartridge. Check that the seals do not let air through. If they do, then it means that dust may have gone past the filter and into the engine. Dust in the engine is very serious. Check carefully for oil and fuel leaks. You might not see any straight away because at garages tractors are steam cleaned and degreased before they are sold. Turn on the ignition. On most tractors there are lights, one for oil pressure and the other to show that the alternator is charging. They should both go on when the key is turned. If they don’t, you know that something is wrong. Start the engine – both lights should go out. If they don’t go out, then don’t buy the tractor unless the garage repairs this fault. Warm up the engine – check that the temperature gauge works. Listen to the engine as it warms and watch the exhaust. If the engine does not run smoothly and there is blue-white smoke coming out of the exhaust, then it probably means that something is wrong with the fuel-injection system. This can be very expensive to repair. If the tractor blows a lot of dark smoke, then the piston rings could be worn. This usually means that the tractor needs an engine overhaul.
Use all the gears in both ranges. Check that the gear lever is not too loose in any gear and check that it does not jump out of gear. Check the hydraulic lift system. You will need a plough to check that it works properly. Check to see if any hoses are broken or needing replacing. Check the grease nipples. If they are clean, then it probably means that the tractor has been maintained regularly. Also check that the power-take-off works. Run the tractor for a while until the engine is hot. Then check again for oil and diesel leaks. Make a list of all the things that are wrong and which need fixing. Work out the cost of repairs. Then decide if you still want to buy the tractor. Show the list to the seller to see if he or she will sell the tractor to you for a better price. Whether you buy a second-hand tractor or a new one, make sure you get an operator’s manual. Read this carefully. It will tell you how to get the best use from the tractor. If you want to do a lot of repairs yourself, then buy a workshop manual. This will tell you how to do most type of repairs.Workshop manuals are expensive and they must be ordered from the factory. Source: The People’s Guide To Farming – Grow ing Plants Handbook By The Environmental A nd Development A gency Trust and Juta Education.
Our thanks to Dr Jim Rankin of SAAMA for feedback on the draft chapter.
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Inputs
originally cheaper (and metallurgically incorrect) built. A few fractures, a coating of paint and new tyres will do the trick if it was right when bought. “Cheaper” can be expensive.
SABS
Trailers 1. Companies involved Some companies mentioned in the “Trucks and heavy machinery and “Implements” chapters also supply trailers
Aluglide Tel: 011 392 2259/ 082 707 3214 www.aluglidetrailers.co.za
Leo’s Sleepwaens Tel: 013 932 4151/2 www.leostrailers.co.za
Bulperd Tel: 082 414 2569 www.bulperd.co.za
M&N Engineering Tel: 033 390 2555
Crisbox Tel: 012 719 8319/ 072 274 7269 www.crisbox.co.za Cruiser Trailers Tel: 011 660 3683 www.cruisertrailers.co.za Engelbrecht Sleepwaens Tel: 018 786 2545 Hardman’s Trailers Tel: 031 202 5887 www.hardtrail.co.za JME Trailers Tel: 053 444 1313
NIC’s Trailers Tel: 018 673 0224 / 082 859 0904 www.nictrailers.co.za Rogue Agriculture Tel: 033 345 0038 www.roguesteel.co.za Torsion Engineering Tel: 016 362 3456 www.torsion.co.za Vencedor Trailers Tel: 018 290 1774 VTEC Trailers Tel: 016 986 2194 www.sleepwa.co.za
Landmech South Africa Tel: 086 047 2337 www.landmech.co.za
2. Key points for livestock farmers Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) It is common practice amongst farmers to compare trailers prices by looking at size and GVM, and then buying the cheapest one. The GVM is not a reflection of the trailer’s carrying capacity. The weight of the trailer should be subtracted from the GVM to arrive at its carrying capacity. Should you buy a 2,6T trailer, it is illegal for it to carry a 2,6T load. EXAMPLE: A trailer is equipped with so-called 3T axle. It is registered for 2000kg. Its weight is 680kg. Its legal carrying capacity is 1320 kg.
Technology and quality Consequently, the technology and workmanship which goes along with building a trailer becomes crucial. Flexible undercarriages last longer and absorb shock and vibration. Independent sprung suspension is more lasting than conventional suspension [leaf-spring suspensions]. This suspension gives more stability to the trailer and fewer vibrations which make livestock restless (horses, in particular, become restless if the underframe vibrates beneath them, but this applies to cattle and sheep too).
Value and resale value The “extras” like removable livestock railings add to the value of the trailer and, together with the previously mentioned points, contribute to the trailer’s second-hand value. Some manufacturers produce combination trailers, suitable for cattle, sheep or horses. The premise that a trailer is without value once it is “finished” only applies to that trailer which was
All trailers are required to be SABS sanctioned. Legal requirements are for the purpose of road safety: reflector lights, basic dimensions etc. This is not a statement on the strength of livestock railings or indeed of the soundness of the trailer’s structure.
Safety The majority of trailers is registered to a maximum of 2400kg (GVM) i.e. the mass of the trailer itself combined with the weight of the load should not exceed this figure. For good reason: the maximum braking ability of the brake component only goes up to this figure. In this country, there are very few manufacturers are registered for 2400kg – 3500kg bracket. Their components meet the standards and these are largely imported.
GCM / BKM (Gross combination mass / Bruto kombinasie massa) The gross combination mass is that of the bakkie, the trailer, the bakkie load and the trailer load. This figure appears on the bakkie or vehicle towing the trailer. EXAMPLE: 4500 kg (Bakkie BKM) - 1600kg (Bakkie mass) = 2900kg. This represents the load on the bakkie, the load on the trailer and the trailer’s mass. 2900kg - 600kg (trailer’s mass) = 2300kg. Divided this could be 1 ton on the bakkie and 1300kg on the trailer. The weight classification varies from vehicle to vehicle.
Weight implication The average cow weighs 500kg, and requires space of 1800mm x 900mm. Thus, a cattle trailer [beeswa] will typically be 3600mm x 1600mm high. Be careful of trailers of 1.7m height: this is too low. 4x500kg = 2000kg + trailer’s weight of 600kg = 2600kg is necessary reading. This means the average bakkie may not pull this trailer (with four cattle on board). The average cattle trailer is registered for 1800kg, weighs approximately 600kg, which gives you an carrying capacity of 1200kg i.e. only two animals of 500kg. It does not matter how long or wide the trailer is: it is about weight. NB Some manufacturers do not include the extras when giving the figures, and you may find that the weight of the spare wheel, railings, rubber mats etc is not included. NOTE: There is a difference between a cattle cart or sheep cart – and a trailer that can transport cattle and sheep. The former have rubber mats (to prevent slipping), a gate combination at the rear in the middle – because animals moving to the rear cause pressure which lifts the bakkie up.
Home-made Complying with the law becomes very difficult, if not impossible, particularly for a trailer with a GVM of more than 750kg. Remember: trailers are “vehicles” that must be roadworthy and loaded according to specifications. If an accident were to occur, even were the trailer not the cause, there would be potential problems with insurance and third-party claims. When it comes to the trailer, its load and the vehicle pulling it, stay within the bounds of the law and road regulations. It is not worth a life or a third-party court case. Source: NIC Trailers (contact details under heading 1)
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Inputs Trucks and heavy machinery
Mercedes Benz Commercial Vehicles Tel: 012 677 1500 www.mercedes-benzsa.co.za Nissan Diesel – UD Tel: 012 564 9500 www.nissandiesel.co.za
Tata Tel: 011 255 9600 www.tata.com Toyota – Hino Tel: 011 809 2000 www.toyota.co.za
Powerstar Tel: 011 565 5300
Volkswagen – see the “Find a dealer” option on the website www.vwcommercial.co.za.
1. Overview
Renault Trucks Tel: 011 695 4358 www.renault.co.za
This chapter is weighted towards the “trucks”. Readers wishing for a database of heavy machinery providers should consult a copy of the Plant Equipment & Hire bulletin magazine. Each issue runs an updated directory with over fifty categories e.g. bulldozers, crawler excavators, backhoe loaders, landfill compactors etc.
Volvo Tel: 011 842 5000 / 918 3287 www.volvo.co.za
Scania Tel: 011 6619600 www.scania.com
Western Star Tel: 012 677 1589
See also the “Infrastructure and agrologistics” chapter
2. Associations involved Contractors’ Plant Hire Association www.cpha.co.za
Road Freight Association Tel: 011 974 4399 www.rfa.co.za
It might be better to hire than to buy …
3. Websites and publications Fleetwatch Tel: 011 794 2490 / 1 www.fleetwatch.co.za
BROOKE PATTRICK Tel: 011 603 3960
[email protected]
FOCUS on trucking and logistics Tel: 011 782 1070 www.charmont.co.za
Brooke Pattrick does magazines of relevance to this chapter like Plant Equipment & Hire Bulletin and The Civil Engineering Contractor.
4. Companies involved
Trailers ADR Africa Trailer Spares http://adrafrica.co.za
Fruehauf Components Tel: 011 878 4000
AFRIT – see “Other” heading
GRW Engineering Tel: 023 348 6300
Duncanmec Tel: 011 900 2580 www.duncanmec.co.za
Truck spares See the “Fleet maintenance and spare parts” chapter
Other AFRIT Road Transport Equipment Tel: 012 541 2123 www.afrit.co.za ALS Agri Hire Tel: 034 341 1636 www.alsgroup.co.za
Components Barloworld Tel: 011 445 1000 www.barloworld.com
Eaton Tel: 011 961 2460 www.eaton.com
Cummins Diesel SA Tel: 011 321 8700 www.cummins.com
ZF SA Tel: 011 457 0000 www.zfsa.co.za
Als Manufacturing Tel: 018 291 1113 www.alsmanufacturing.co.za Bell Equipment Tel: 035 907 9111 www.bellequipment.com Ford Tel: 012 842 2911 www.ford.co.za
Manufacturers DAF Tel: 011 255 4000 www.dafrucks.com
Fuso – Mitsubishi Tel: 012 677 1500 www.fuso.co.za
DFM Warrior Tel: 011 859 2004 www.dfmwarrior.co.za
Isuzu Tel: 041 403 9111 www.isuzutrucks.co.za
FAW Tel: 011 392 1530 www.fawtrucks.co.za
IVECO Tel: 011 205 3990 www.iveco.co.za
Freightliner Tel: 012 677 1611 www.mercedes-benzsa.co.za
MAN Truck and Bus Tel: 011 928 6800 www.man-sa.co.za
SA Truck Bodies / Henred Tel: 011 878 4000 www.satruckbodies.co.za
EQSTRA Holdings Limited Tel: 011 966 2000 www.eqstra.co.za
High Power Equipment Africa Tel: 0111 397 4670 www.hpeafrica.co.za Komatsu Southern Africa Tel: 011 923 1000 www.komatsu.co.za Landmech South Africa Tel: 086 047 2337 www.landmech.co.za Quali Prod Tel: 012 653 8189 www.qualiprod.co.za Trailord Tel: 031 705 2006 www.trailord.com US Truck Sales (Dodge trucks) Tel: 011 452 3805 www.ustrucks.co.za
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Inputs Tyres 1. Overview South Africa produces most of the country’s agricultural tyre requirements. Some of the larger and more powerful tractors as well as certain specialised implements, usually imported, are fitted with unique tyre sizes and styles that are not manufactured locally. Some of these tyres and sizes are only available on special import or through the equipment supplier. Tyres manufactured here are done for a global market, exports going mainly to sub-Saharan Africa. Tyres can either cost you a lot of money through incorrect use and care, or they can help to reduce operating costs. Sound advice is vital in order to be able to contain costs. This is essential even at the time of selecting the correct tyre for the operation. Correct tyre pressures have to be recommended and then these have to be maintained. Injuries to tyres will occur, and it is necessary to have them repaired correctly. Don’t take short cuts on tyres.
2. Roleplayers Associations
Publications and websites
Retail Motor Association (RMI) Tyre Dealer and Fitment Association (TDAFA) Paul Britz (National Director) Tel: 011 886 6300 www.rmionline.co.za
Southern Africa Treads Liana Shaw (Editor) Tel: 011 658 0011
[email protected] www.satreads.co.za
Each company involved – see Represents tyre dealers and fitment following heading – has a website centres and manuals, which are usually beefed up versions of what is on South African Bureau of their website. Standards (SABS) Standards Information Centre Other publications (usually Car enquiries: ones) carry tyre-related articles Tel: 012 428 6666 / 7911 every now and then.
[email protected] www.sabs.co.za Tyre changing and repair The regulations pertaining to the equipment service conditions under which Pneumatic tyres may operate within Automotive Equipment South Africa are covered under the International (AEI) South African Bureau of Standards Tel: 011 474 7480 Data Book 1550 and its annexure. www.aei.co.za The leading specialist in Garage Equipment, involved in the supply and service of quality workshop equipment, lubrication equipment, wheel care equipment and tyre repair consumables. Branches This group represents the new in Johannesburg, Durban, Port tyre industry on matters relating to Elizabeth and Cape Town. WTO negotiations, tyre safety, and the environment. South African Tyre Manufacturers Association (SATMC) Tel: 011 791 1449 Fax: 0860 503 9880
SATRP Company T/A South African Tyre Recycling Process Company Tel: 011 792 0359 www.rubbersa.com (Association Incorporated under Section 21)
Local Manufacturers
Tyre Dealers
Bridgestone South Africa Tel: 011 923 7600 www.bridgestone.co.za
Conti Partner Tel: 021 862 1797 www.contipartner.co.za
Continental Tyre SA Tel: 041 406 5111 www.continental.co.za
Dunlop Accredited Dealers Tel: 080 033 5722 www.dad.co.za
Dunlop Tyres International (Pty) Ltd Tel: 031 242 1111 www.dunloptyres.co.za
Hi-Q Tel: 011 917 3400
Good Year Tel: 011 345 6700 www.goodyear.com
Maxiprest Tel: 011 387 2000 Tel: 012 719 8715 www.maxiprest.co.za Speedy Tyre and Exhaust Tel: 0861 773 339 (SPEEDY) www.speedy.co.za
Major Importers Heavy Duty Tyres Tel: 011 394 4125 www.hdep.co.za
Supa Quick Auto Centres Tel: 011 836 2161/2/3 www.supaquick.co.za
Michelin Tel 011 579 0300 www.michelin.com
Tiger Wheel & Tyre Tel: 011 256 4000 www.tigerwheelandtyre.com
Pirelli Tel: 011 541 4270 www.pirelli.com
Trentyre Tel: 0860 94 33 57 www.trentyre.co.za
Tubestone Tel: 011 6081301 www.tubestone.co.za Yokohama Southern Africa Tel: 011 437 4600 www.yokohoma.co.za
3. Radial Ply Speed
Speed
Symbol
km/h
A1
5
A2
10
A3
15
A4
20
A5
25
A6
30
A7
35
A8
40
B
50
C
60
D
65
E
70
F
80
G
90
Imported tractors are normally fitted with Radial Ply tyres. These tyres are all marked with a Load Index and Speed Symbol on the sidewall. A copy of the table is to the left. However, these merely indicate the tyres maximum carrying capacity and speed at the maximum speed. When it comes to recommended tyre pressures, it would be advisable to either use the tyre pressures as recommended by the tractor manufacturer, or alternatively call in a tyre expert to recommend tyre pressures. This is particularly important when look at 4 wheel drive or Front Wheel Assist tractors.
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4. Useful notes
Inputs
Checking tyre pressure • The best time to check tyre pressures is when they’re cold. Hot tyres build up pressure by about 20 per cent. Never deflate hot tyres. Always inflate your tyres to the vehicle or tyre manufacturer’s specifications. If you are setting out on a long journey, or carrying a heavy load, increase the pressure of each tyre by 30kPa. • If you notice that a tyre requires repeated inflating, it could have a slow puncture, or the valve could be leaking. Ask your tyre dealer to inspect the tyre. Each tyre should always be fitted with a valve cap to stop dirt from entering the valve core, causing it to leak. • NB Don’t forget to check the pressure in the spare tyre.
Under inflation • A correctly inflated tyre generates heat when moving - it is designed to do so. But an under inflated tyre can heat up to dangerous levels, causing the tyre components to separate. Under inflation increases shoulder-wear, resulting in heavier steering, which can cause your vehicle to become unstable when cornering, braking or accelerating. It also increases the vehicle’s ‘rolling resistance’, i.e. its ability to ‘roll freely’ on the road, which will increase fuel consumption.
Over inflation • Over inflation causes premature wear on the centre of the tread, shortening the life of the tyre. Although advanced materials may be used that protect against tyre damage, rubber is particularly prone to absorbing oil, grease, fuel and other solvents, and is further degraded by exposure to heat and light. Therefore, tyres should be kept in a cool, clean and dark area, and away from other machinery such as motors, generators and welders as the ozone emitted by such equipment causes cracks in the rubber and, ultimately, failure of the tyre carcass. Similarly, wash any chemicals offthe tyres after using the tractor in spraying operations. For storing tyres mounted on rims, but not on machinery, reduce the pressure to ten psi and store vertically on the tread. Tyres off rims can be stacked evenly on their sidewalls, but never so high as to distort the bottom tyre. On a machine or implement in storage for extended periods, block up the vehicle to lift the tyres off the ground. If this is not possible, increase the standard tyre pressure by 25% to reduce deflection and move the vehicle periodically. Source: adapted from an article by Goodyear w hich appeared in Pula-Imvula (a magazine put out by Grain SA ), January 2009.
Undercover growing & hydroponics 1. Overview • Translated directly, hydroponics means plants working (growing) in water. The word ‘hydroponic’ is derived from two Greek words: ‘hydro’ – meaning water, and ‘ponos’ – meaning labour. • A modern definition of hydroponics: A system where plants are grown in a growing media or substrate other than natural soil. All the nutrients (6 macro- and 6 micro-elements) are dissolved in the irrigation water and are supplied at a regular basis to plants. It is the cultivation of plants in nutrient-rich solution rather than in soil. • Hydroponics supplies the plant with what it needs, when it needs it. There is no genetic mutation that takes place inside the equipment nor are any mysterious wonder chemicals introduced to the plant roots. • In hydroponics, water is used much more efficiently than in soil cultivation. In certain hydroponic closed systems (recirculation) probably as much as 50% less water is used, while in open systems (drain to waste) 20-30% water savings can be realised. • Hydroponics can be incredibly sophisticated and requires good management. • Hydroponics gives better and faster plant growth and potentially greater yields since the growth factors such as nutrients, temperature, humidity and light are closer to the plant’s exact needs. In some hydroponic environments you can grow the plants much more closely together than with conventional methods (provided there is sufficient light). This is because the plants do not make as large a root system as under conventional conditions since they don’t have to “go looking” for food. The food “comes” to them. • In South Africa, Hydroponic vegetable production is almost always done under protection (e.g. tunnels covered in special plastic and shade-cloth). • Although “Undercover” is mostly seen as greenhouse and tunnel production, shade-cloth systems (where plants are grown mainly in soil but protected from harsh climate by the shade cloth) is also included in this category.
The difference between Hydroponics vegetable production and production in soil: Hydroponics
Field production
No soil is required.
Good topsoil is required. Good soil = good drainage, texture, organic material (e.g.compost), diseasefree.
Nutrients are available at all times. Only water-soluble fertilisers are used. Hydroponics fertiliser formulations contain a balanced nutrient content, taking the plant species and growth stage, climate and water conditions into consideration.
Nutrients must be added to soil. Unless a laboratory analysis is done, too much or too few nutrients can be added.
Sources: C ontinental Tyre SA and Dunlop
Thanks to Liana Shaw for feedback on the draft chapter
Soil borne controlled
diseases
can
be Soil borne diseases can build up in the soil.
Hydroponic production is not organic because artificial nutrients are always used and plants are never grown in soil.
It is possible to produce organic vegetables in soil because one can use organic fertilisers such as compost and manure.
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2. Associations involved Association for Intensive Plant Production Tel: 021 808 2965 / 4803
[email protected]
Call 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for the following publications available from the ARC’s Institute of Agricultural Engineering: Intensive Agriculture SA Tel: 021 808 4809
[email protected] www.iasa.co.za
East Coast Intensive Horticulture Tel: 033 343 8090 / 084 822 5051
6. Companies involved
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Directorate: Food Safety & Quality Directorate: Plant Production Assurance Tel: 012 319 6079 Tel: 012 319 7306
[email protected] [email protected]
4. Training and research Agribusiness in Sustainable Natural African Plant Products (ASNAPP) Tel: 021 808 2918
[email protected] www.asnapp.org
Dewcrisp Tel: 011 840 1600 Flori Horticultural Services Johannes Maree Tel: 082 564 1211 / 013 735 6883
[email protected]
“Specialist in hydroponics production systems and natural See Maree’s notes later in this plant development” chapter. Some of the Agricultural Colleges present short course on hydroponics (find their contact details in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter). ARC-Vegetables and Ornamental Plants (VOPI) Tel: 012 841 9611 / 74 Gert Venter – 083 635 6176
[email protected] [email protected]
• Low-cost shade net structure • Development of an automatic rolldown shade-net for glasshouse compartments
Intensive Agriculture South Africa – details under heading 2 Skills for Africa Tel: 012 379 4920 www.skillsafrica.co.za Stellenbosch University Department of Agronomy Tel. 021 808 4803
[email protected]
University of the Free State Three courses are offered – Lengau Agricultural centre Hydroponic (Basic), Hydroponic Tel: 051 443 8859 (Practical) and Hydroponic
[email protected] Management Systems. Verti-Gro presents a course Central University of “Practical hydroponics”. Call Technology (CUT) 031 767 2096 or write to Tel: 051 507 3134 / 3113
[email protected]
5. Websites and publications • IASA members have access to many technical publications on subjects relating to vegetable production. Find IASA’s details under heading 2. • Undercover Farming, a bi-monthly magazine, is for greenhouse, tunnel, shade net and hydroponics farmers. Call 012 804 5854 or visit www. undercoverfarming.co.za for more. • Guide to Hydroponics Vegetable Production 2001 Editor: JG Niederwieser. Published by Agricultural Research Council, Roodeplaat Vegetable and Ornamental Plant Institute. ISBN: 1-86849-196-X. • Offenbach R. and Ethiel E. (2000) The contribution of washing the roofs of greenhouses in which peppers for export were cultivated. Gan sade Vameshek May 2000. • Offenbach R. and Tzuberi Y. Washing the roofs of tomato greenhouses. Gan sade Vameshek May 2001. • Miron Y., Amir R. (2000) The influence of coloured mulch on the cultivation of cucumbers in greenhouses. Gan sade Vameshek December 2000. • Companies involved (see below) usually have publications and guides to growing crops undercover.
• Alnet Tel: 021 530 2400 www.alnet.co.za • Amatola Tel: 043 732 1927 • Biogrow Tel: 028 313 2054 www.biogrow.co.za – Natural organic solutions • Bimac International Tel: 011 462 9238
[email protected] – fabric novotex agro-crop cover • Combustion Technology Tel: 011 452 5060 www.combustion.co.za • Cyclone Greenhouses Tel: 012 205 1770
[email protected] • DFM Software Tel/fax: 021 904 1154 www.dfmsoftware.co.za • Dicla Farm & Seeds Tel: 011 662 1371 www.dicla.com • Dynatrade SA Tel: 011 764 5416 www.dynatrade-sa.co.za • Feed The People (FTP) Tel: 031 562 1110 www.ftp.org.za • Flow Grow Hydroponics Tel: 031 776 3458 www.flowgrow.co.za • Golden Age Consulting Tel: 084 941 3993 www.aae.co.za • Greenhouse Technologies Tel: 011 613 3103 www.ghtech.co.za • GreenZone Tel: 011 868 1141 www.greenzone.co.za • Gundle API Tel: 011 813 2180 - plastics for greenhouses • Hanna Instruments Tel: 011 615 6076 www.hannainst.co.za – find the details for the Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth branches on the website • Haygrove Tunnels Tel: 021 859 1026 www.haygrove.com • Hefer Construction Tel: 011 698 1686 / 1740 www.hefer.co.za • Hygrotech SA Tel: 012 545 8000 www.hygrotech.com • I&M Smith Tel 011 337 8740 – greenhouse electrostatic sprayers • John F Marshal Tel: 011 842 7100 www.johnfmarshall.co.za • Kemira Grow How Tel: 031 910 5100 www.kkan.com • Knittex Shadenetting Tel: 011 692 1658
[email protected] • Landpak Agrishade Tel: 012 250 0120 www.internationalgroup.co.za Find the shade cloth menu option • Marais, Gerard Tel: 011 803 4631 Consultant • Mayford Seeds Tel: 011 548 2800 www.mayford.co.za • Morningdew Farms Tel: 011 613 4266/7 www.mdf.co.za • Munters Tel: 011 971 9700 / 997 2000 • Netafim Greenhouse Tel: 021 987 0477 www.netafim.net • Plaaskem Tel: 011 823 8000/19 www.plaaskem.co.za • Plus Net Tel: 011 412 3954
[email protected] • Rhino Plastics Tel: 041 451 3197 • SAKATA Seeds Tel: 011 548 2800 www.mayford.co.za • Silver Ponds Tel: 011 465 1072 • Starke Ayres Tel: 021 534 3231 www.starkeayres.co.za • Strange Ways Tel: 031 765 3255 • Terratek Tel: 018 581 1000 www.suidwes.co.za • Trempak Trading Tel: 011 452 3268 • Tunnela Tunnels Tel: 012 335 6999 www.tunnelatunnels.co.za • TunnelMan Tel: 083 633 6378 Fax: 015 293 1586 • Vegtech 2000 Tel: 021 987 6980 www.vegtech.co.za • Vermiculite Tel: 015 780 3770/04 www.palabora.com • VERTI-GRO Tel: 031 767 2096 www.vertigro.com • Wetwall Equipment Technologies Tel: 021 789 2308 – temperature control of greenhouses • WillGRO Tel: 076 824 3038/44 www.willgro.co.za • Windell Hydroponics Tel: 021 448 6194 www.windell.co.za • Windmaster Ventilation Tel: 011 452 8256 – fans / ventilation
7. Local business environment • Production of flowers or vegetables, especially for the export market, is unthinkable without undercover growing. If produced in a climatecontrolled greenhouse, the producer can supply vegetables out of season when the price is good. • Hydroponics is becoming a very important way to produce vegetables in South Africa because of the production potential, the high quality of the produce and the efficient water usage. • Commercial scale hydroponics production is capital, labour and management intensive.
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Flowers offer by far the best opportunities for environmentally controlled farming, with roses, mini roses, chrysanthemums, carnations, gysophili, gerberas, asters, alstromeria, cymbidium and ferns all easily saleable between October and mid-April in Europe and the Far East. Prices for cut flowers such as mini roses and alstromeria are substantially higher in this period when Northern Hemisphere production is limited because of dull skies and the high cost of heating. Markets also exist for a range of vegetables, including peppers, courgettes and cherry tomatoes, but profits may be lower. In South Africa plants are grown in greenhouses to protect them against the strong UV radiation, to increase the humidity around plants, and to decrease to some extent the extreme minimum and maximum temperatures that can occur in a single day. The principal advantage of plastic tunnels is that they are significantly less expensive, but they do not offer climate control. Tunnels are often not warranted against high winds. Planting space in tunnels is less favourable than in greenhouses and the installation of climate control is very expensive and therefore not recommended for tunnels.
8. Closed and Open Systems Many different hydroponic or soilless culture systems are in use today. In true hydroponics no medium is used, which is typically called liquid hydroponics compared to aggregate hydroponics in which a soilless medium is used. These mediums can be organic (sawdust, wood-shavings, wood chips, coco-peat, etc.) or inorganic materials (gravel, perlite, rockwool, vermiculite, etc.) Both liquid and aggregate hydroponics can be used in an open or closed production setup. In a closed system the excess nutrient solution (runoff) is recovered and reused. While in an open system the runoff is channelled away and not reused in the system. It is important to mention that in a closed system the reservoir is normally flushed once a week and a completely new batch of nutrient-rich water made up.
Advantages and disadvantages of closed and open systems Open System
Closed System
1. Initial capital outlay is less
The permanency and rigidity of an atmospheric controlled glasshouse provides excellent protection against temperature fluctuations and strong winds. A well constructed and erected greenhouse, with proper insect preventing netting, will drastically reduce the incidence of insects (making this pest more controllable). If the temperature and humidity are very high and ventilation and circulation is poor, incidence of diseases may occur though.
1. Initial capital outlay is more because it needs more pipes, pumps, a water purification system and bigger reservoir
2. Use more water
2. Use less water
3. Use more fertiliser
3. Use less fertiliser
Controlled environment farming is not cheap to introduce. Half a hectare would generally be the minimum viable size for cut flower only enterprises. Lack of finance has restricted the SA greenhouse industry, but there are sources other than local banks for farmers to get credit.
5. Less expense and capitalisation 5. Greater expense and capitalisation needed to sterilise nutrient rich needed to keep recycled nutrient solution rich solution sterile
There are a number of companies that assesses the suitability of developing world farming ventures for funding from European financiers. European financiers require projects that are practically and economically viable, run by people with the necessary technical and managerial expertise and that have guaranteed markets for their produce. Growers should have done some extensive planning before they consider contacting these companies. Potential growers must prepare a feasibility study, including a marketing plan, the project’s running costs and projected cash flow for its first year and subsequent five-year period – markets must also be already identified.
4. Less change of contaminated 4. Greater change of contamination nutrient rich solution. of nutrient rich solution
6. Greater negative impact on 6. Less negative environment environment
impact
on
In South Africa two types of hydroponic systems are most often used. The most common system is the open bag culture system (or drain-to-waste system). In this production type, tomatoes, cucumbers and sweet peppers are produced in tunnels or multi-spam structures and grown in plastic bags or containers filled with media such as pine sawdust or Coco-peat. The second system is the closed gravel flow technique systema closed, gravel flow technique system (GFT). In GFT, vegetables such as lettuce and celery are produced in troughs filled with gravel, normally under shade-cloth. Source: Johannes Maree. C ontact him at
[email protected]
Advantages of hydroponics vegetable production • Hydroponically produced vegetables can be of high quality and need little washing. • Soil preparation and weeding is reduced or eliminated. • It is possible to produce very high yields of vegetables on a small area because an environment optimal for plant growth is created. All the nutrients and water that the plants need are available at all times. • One does not need good soil to grow vegetables. • Water is used efficiently. • Pollution of soil with unused nutrients is greatly reduced Disadvantages of hydroponics • Hydroponics production is management, capital and labour intensive. • A high level of expertise is required. • Daily attention is necessary. • Specially formulated, soluble nutrients must always be used. Source: Johannes Maree. C ontact him at
[email protected]
9. Diseases and pests Systems must be managed carefully. Factors like inadequate greenhouse management, poor facilities, poor plant material, untrained workers etc can lead to disease outbreaks. For a disease-causing organism or pathogen to be able to infect a plant and cause a disease, three conditions have to be optimal: • The pathogen/insect has to be present in the stage that causes infection. • The plant must be susceptible to infection. • The environment must be conducive to allow infection to occur. This is known as the disease triangle. It is important for a producer to know what pests or diseases are likely to become a problem. Steps can then be taken to reduce the possibility of the pest or disease entering the greenhouse and gaining a foothold on the plants. Prevention is easier than cure! If you are uncertain about the identification of the disease or pest, contact an expert such as the Roodeplaat Diagnostic Centre - Tel: 012 841 9611 – or the Stellenbosch University Plant Pathology Disease Clinic – Tel: 021 808 4798. Only registered pesticides may be used to combat pests and diseases (Act 36/1947). These can be obtained at registered chemical distributors,
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nurseries and certain retail stores. The control chemical or pesticide will only be effective if the pest has been correctly identified, and if the pesticide has been applied correctly (mixing, spray technique, time of day etc). Important: • Study the label carefully and apply the pesticide only as indicated on the label. • Give attention to the safe use of chemicals and the protection of the person applying them. • Make sure than pesticides do not occur on harvested products. • All pesticides are poisonous. Source: Johannes Maree. C ontact him at
[email protected]
10. New farmer information What do I need to start a Hydroponics production unit? Garden units • • • • • •
source of clean water the right location specially formulated fertiliser time to attend to the system daily a little knowledge of plants and gardening a commercial or home made unit
Commercial • Water is the most important consideration. Quality, quantity and reliability • A market. Know what, where and when to market your crop • Hydroponics is labour intensive. During peak season, labour must be available for 7 days a week
• Management skills: Production, labour, marketing, infra-structure • Expertise in crop production, fertilisation and irrigation, pests and disease management • Location: Infrastructure, labour, market, etc • Financing: The amount needed depends on the size, type of greenhouse, labour cost and your market • Dedication
Know the basics To be able to produce vegetables successfully year after year, one needs to be familiar with the basics of Hydroponics that is: the plant, growth medium, water and nutrients. By relying on recipes only, one will not be able to identify the cause of a problem and you may not be able to correct them.
How do plants function? Plants have only three types of organs: Leaves, roots and stems. Know what the organs look like and how they function so that you can deal with their needs.
Growth medium Growth medium is the substitute for soil in Hydroponics systems. The functions of growth medium are: • to provide the roots with O2 • bring the water and dissolved nutrients in contact with roots • anchor the plants so that they do not fall over Many different materials can be used as long as they provide the roots with O2, water and nutrients. In South Africa, gravel is popular in re-circulating systems, sawdust is the most popular for the open bag system / drain to waste system.
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Water and nutrients
Taking care of plants
All the nutrients plants need are dissolved in water and they are supplied to plants every day. Macro elements (N; P; K; S; Ca) are needed in substantial amounts, whereas plants need very small amounts of micro elements (Fe; Zn; Mn; Mg; Cu; Co, Mg).
• Different crops are planted at different spacing. Small plants can be planted close to each other. Large plants need more space to grow and must be spaced further apart. • Water flow must be checked every day and adjusted when necessary. • If plants turn yellow, it is normally a symptom of nutrient deficiency, too little light or a disease. • Inspect the leaves every day for disease symptoms and insects. Act immediately if a problem occurs. Harvesting
It is necessary to use specially formulated fertilisers. Fertilisers used for Hydroponics are more pure (and expensive) than other fertilisers to prevent precipitation and blockages of the system.
Different hydroponics systems Two different Hydroponics systems are used to produce vegetables: the gravel flow and the drain to waste system. In the drain to waste system, plants are grown in containers and nutrient solution is supplied to plants by means of a dripper, up to 12 times per day. The number of irrigation cycles per day depends on temperature and the growth stage of plants. The crops in the drain to waste system grow tall and need to be trained and pruned so that they grow upwards as a single stem. In the gravel flow system, the nutrient solution is re-circulated and the roots of the plants stand in a thin film of nutrient solution all the time. Gravel or sand is used most often as growth medium.
Vegetables are perishable. The shelf life and quality depend on a chain of actions: • • • • • • •
Pick at the right stage without damage to the plant. Pick early in the morning or when it is cool. Keep picked vegetables out of the sun. Handle carefully. Store them at the right temperature (depends on crop). Use the right packaging (depends on crop and market). Transport with care.
Source: Johannes Maree. C ontact him at
[email protected]
Which crops can be grown in a hydroponics system?
11. Emerging farmer news
Any crop can be grown, but some will not be cost effective e.g. cabbages. Presently, what is popular in South Africa are tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers in a bag culture method with an open system drain to waste systems and lettuce and herbs in gravel flow systems.
Timbali Technology Incubator is a Section 21 company, based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, South Africa. The Incubator is funded by STP (SEDA Technology Program) which facilitates the development of Business Technology Incubators in South Africa.
Which crop should I grow?
Small scale farmers in Africa are entrenched in a cycle of inertia resulting in poverty due to limited access and are often excluded from formal markets. This barrier to entry is caused by factors, such as economy of scale, which tips the balance in favour of the larger farmers. Farming in general has further become more demanding, competitive, and knowledgeand-technology-intensive.
Nobody can make the decision of which crop to grow for you. Every situation, every crop and every market has its own advantages, disadvantages and requirements. Important considerations are the market and the climate. The type of unit e.g. garden unit or commercial unit is also a factor in determining which crops to grow.
Which variety do I choose? There are many vegetable varieties available. Some were developed specifically for commercial Hydroponics production in greenhouses. Local seed companies are able to recommend varieties that are widely adapted and easy to grow. For household units common garden varieties are recommended.
Seedlings • Seedlings can be purchased at nurseries, or you can produce them yourself. • When buying seedlings, look for young plants; the roots must not be stuck to the walls of the seedling tray and must be white, not brown. • Soil- and water-borne diseases can be transmitted through seedlings. • Transplant only the strongest seedlings. • Do not use seedlings that are too old and ‘pot bound’. To produce seedlings, follow instructions on seed packages.
Buying seed • Seed is available in small or large packages. • Small packets are sold at nurseries, co-ops and retail stores and are suitable for garden and small-scale hydroponics units. • Large packets, suitable for commercial scale production, are available from seed companies.
To address the challenge of economy of scale, that causes an uncompetitive disadvantage to small scale farmers, Timbali established a Prototype TurnKey Agri-Cluster Development of 30 small scale farmers on 3,3 hectares of land. The farmers benefit from: shared infrastructure, bulk buying, shared services, collective marketing, branding and advertisement, and coordinated selling under the trade name “AmaBlom”. Timbali has thereby created an enabling environment where fledgling apprentice farmers have the opportunity to grow into independent, competitive Agri- Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs. This is achieved through mentorship, access to expertise, technology packaging, finance and markets. For more information, visit www.timbali.co.za or call 013 752 4247. Our thanks to Paddy de Vries for feedback and his edit of the draft chapter
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Inputs Use of animal power 1. Overview In the previous edition, this chapter was titled “Animal traction”. We have enlarged the content to include transport, something which is central to agriculture and rural development. In 1990 the Animal Traction Network for Eastern and Southern Africa (ATNESA) was formed to link animal traction specialists in the region. National animal traction networks were formed in several African countries. In 1993, the South African Network of Animal Traction (SANAT) was established with a view to promoting the use of working animals, along with the relevant research, development and training. At the same time, with the assistance of the National and Eastern Cape Departments of Agriculture, the Animal Traction Centre (ATC) at Fort Hare University in the Eastern Cape was established. This Centre was started with a view to providing a centre where training and research in animal traction could be conducted. In 1994 SANAT conducted a national animal traction survey throughout South Africa to assess the state of animal traction in South Africa and, in the long term, to improve small farmer productivity and to raise rural living standards through the use of animal power for transport and crop production. The survey revealed that throughout the rural communities of South Africa some 60% of the rural farmers were using animal power. It also revealed that animal power was being re-introduced on some large scale commercial farms to reduce the heavy mechanisation costs resulting from increases in fuel and machinery prices. Since 1994, SANAT and the ATC (where SANAT is currently based) have worked to expand the understanding and use of animal traction throughout the country, to provide training and conduct research in animal traction.
2. National and regional strategy Department of Transport Integrated Implementation Support Tel: 012 309 3403 Fax: 012 309 3486
[email protected] The Department of Transport has allocated funding to the improvement and safety of donkey carts.
SANAT is currently assisting the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) in the preparation of a National Policy Document which will provide a strategy whereby animal traction and related issues can be managed both nationally and regionally. The Traction Centre (TC) at Fort Hare University, which incorporates the ATC, is recognised and supported financially by the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture. A number of provincial departments of agriculture are supporting animal traction initiatives in their provinces.
3. Roleplayers Afritrac Tel: 011 918 4698/9 Fax: 011 918 5983
[email protected] www.afritrac.co.za
The South African Network of Animal Traction (SANAT) Tel: 040 602 2125 Fax: 040 602 2488
[email protected]
ARC – Institute for Agricultural Engineering Tel: 012 842 4000 Fax: 012 804 0753
[email protected]
Stellenbosch University Sustainability Institute Tel: 021 881 3196 Fax: 021 881 3294 www.sustainabilityinstitute.net
Research is being done in the use of Tracka-Trekka animal traction as a complimentary Tel: 083 442 4848 power source to agricultural www.tracka-trekka.com tractors. University of Fort Hare Donkey Power Traction Centre Tel: 015 517 7011 / 083 686 7539 Tel: 040 602 2125
[email protected] Fax: 040 602 2488
[email protected] or Inttrac Trading
[email protected] Tel: 016 365 5799
[email protected] University of Pretoria Faculty of Veterinary Science National Council of SPCAs Tel: 012 529 8000 Farm Animal Unit Fax: 012 529 8300 Tel: 011 907 3590/1/2 Yokes for Africa Rudcon Engineering Tel: 072 185 9381 Tel: 016 422 1013/3827
[email protected]
4. Websites and publications Find the following Info Paks on www.daff.gov.za: • Care and use of working donkeys (isiXhosa, isiZulu, seSotho) • Developing agriculture with animal traction • The Golovan cart
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Call 040 602 2125 or write to
[email protected] for the following publications: • Animal Traction In South Africa, Empowering Rural Communities, compiled and edited by Paul Starkey. • Improving Animal Traction Technology, Animal Traction Network for Eastern and Southern Africa (ATNESA), Paul Starkey, Emmanuel Mwenya and John Stares (editors). • Meeting the challenges of Animal Traction, Animal Traction network for Eastern and Southern Africa (ATNESA), Paul Starkey and Pascal Kaumbutho (editors). • Animal Traction in Development, South African Network of Animal Traction (SANAT), Timothy Simalenga and Bruce Joubert (editors). • Conservation Tillage with Animal Traction, Animals Traction Network for Eastern and Southern Africa (ATNESA),PG Kaumbutho and TE Simalenga (editors). • Empowering Farmers with Animal Traction, Animal Traction Network for Eastern and Southern Africa ATNESA, PASCAL Kaumbutho, Anne Pearson and Timothy Simalenga (editors). • Developing Agriculture with Animal Traction. TE Simalenga and ADB Joubert. Published by Department of Agriculture, South Africa. • Harnessing and hitching donkeys, horses and mules for work. RA Pearson, TE Simalenga and R Krecek. University of Edinburgh. ISBN 0-90714615-7 • Using Cows for work. TE Simalenga and RA Pearson. University of Edinburgh. ISBN 0-907146-15-5 • Empowering Farmers with Animal Traction. PG Kaumbutho, A Pearson and TE Simalenga (editors) A Resource Book of Animal Traction Network for Eastern and Southern Africa (ATNESA). Harare. Zimbabwe ISBN No 0-907146-10-4 • Conservation tillage with animal traction. PG Kaumbutho and TE Simalenga (editors). ATNESA resource book. The ARC-Institute for Agricultural Engineering has a few publications of relevance here. Call 012 842 4000 or write to
[email protected] for the following: • Yokes for animal traction (also available in Afrikaans) • Animal traction implements Find information on ATNESA and SANAT at www.ATNESA.org.
5. Animal traction and agriculture A few commercial farmers in South Africa are using animal traction to supplement their tractor operations and reduce operating costs. Typical activities are transporting of farming inputs, produce and fodder; spreading fertiliser and manure; and weeds control. Animal power has a potentially important role to play in the development of emerging farmers entering commercial agriculture. The initial capital investment is about one third what it would be if tractor-powered mechanisation were used. Animals present a much lower investment risk, while the running costs are likewise much lower. Instead of depreciating with time and use, the use of cows for the short periods when traction is required (especially in crop production) can result in alternative sources of income in the form of calves and milk. Equally, the use of donkeys provides additional savings or income from the transport of goods and water. This enables the emerging farmer to compete on the open market with largescale commercial farmers.
Animal power is particularly relevant to subsistence farmers. Most subsistence farmers work small pieces of land which are difficult to manage with conventional tractor-drawn ploughs, harrows, planters and cultivators. Such equipment is usually too expensive for these farmers to purchase, and they have to hire from local contractors who thereby dictate when critical operations such as planting can take place. On the other hand, when more sustainable cost-effective crop production systems such as Conservation Agriculture are utilised, farmers can afford to purchase the animals needed. They can utilise implements already available or borrow from neighbours. Conversely, especially when more sustainable cost-effective crop production systems such as Conservation Agriculture are utilised, farmers can afford to purchase the few animals needed and can utilise implements already available on the farm or which can be readily borrowed from neighbours. Many subsistence farmers are women who are helped by children. Donkeys (easier to handle for women and children) and smaller light weight equipment is needed for this type of farming. Such equipment has been and is still being developed and is becoming available to subsistence farmers in South Africa. Inputs are readily available countrywide, especially for ox- or cow-drawn harnessing and crop production equipment. Manufacturer/distributors such as Afritrac and INTTRAC (find contact numbers under heading 3) can be contacted to find nearby suppliers.
6. International business environment SANAT is an affiliated member of ATNESA and has benefited from this international network, which has enabled South Africa to network and link up with all the countries which are still using or have reverted to animal traction. Animal Traction – or Draught Animal Power as it is sometimes referred to – has played a most important role in the development of humankind. It has been replaced by fossil fuel powered engines and machines, which are in most cases less cost-effective and environment-friendly than Animal Power. Animal Power is still used on a large scale in many third world countries throughout the world and is beginning to make a comeback in many first world countries as well. In the United States of America, Animal Traction is used in particular by the Amish people as a major power source for their agriculture and transport. In the United Kingdom, Europe and Canada Animal Traction is used more as a hobby but some areas have seen an increase in the use of animal traction, notably in the forestry industry and for cartage over short distances e.g. on-farm, milk delivery. We are indebted to Bruce Joubert for his information and assistance with this chapter. Thanks are also owed to the number of people who also gave feedback on the draft chapter, including Prof Tim Simalenga, Dr Peta Jones and Richard Fowler.
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Inputs Water storage 1. Overview • Legal requirements before building a dam are listed in this chapter as well as on the Department of Water Affairs (DWA) website. All the required documents and forms can be downloaded from that website. • Contact details of relevant government departments are given in this chapter, as well as the details of companies involved in water storage. • Information on the daily and weekly flow into the major dams can be found on www.dwaf.gov.za/hydrology. • Details of International, African and South African umbrella groups and roleplayers can be found on the Water Information Network website, www.win-sa.org.za.
2. National Water Resource Strategy Department of Water Affairs (DWA) www.dwaf.gov.za Written permission or a Water Use License must be obtained from the regional offices. Contact details can be found on www.dwa.gov.za (take the “contact us” and “Regional Offices” options) or in the general water chapter of this directory. Other menu options on www.dwa.gov.za relevant to this chapter include “Dams, flows and floods”, “Dam Safety Office” and “Water Use Licensing & Registration”. Additional information regarding national norms and standards on water storage for irrigation purposes can also be obtained from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries: Directorate: Water Use and irrigation Development Ms Mary-Jean Gabriel Tel: 012 319 8567
[email protected]
3. Companies involved ALS Agri Hire Tel: 034 341 1636 www.alsgroup.co.za Amatola Tel: 043 732 1633
[email protected]
Circa-Flow Reservoirs (Pty) Ltd Tel: 056 212 1956 Darachem Industries Tel: 011 892 2917 www.darachem.co.za Dam seals
They design, erect and install weirs, dams, pipelines etc Duys Tanks Tel: 011 769 2738 Aquadam Tel: 012 810 0940 Erichsen Konstruksie RSA www.aquadam.co.za Tel: 056 212 1956
[email protected] Aquatan Tel: 011 974 5271 Flexi Linings www.aquatan.co.za Tel: 011 334 7492
JoJo Tanks Tel: 013 262 3021 www.jojotanks.co.za
Quick Pools Tel: 015 293 2333/4/5 www.quickpools.co.za
Water tanks
Rainbow Reservoirs Tel: 015 297 7640 www.rainbow-reservoirs.co.za
LandMech Tel: 0860 472 337 www.landmech.co.za MBB Services International Tel: 021 887 1026 www.mbb.co.za Poly Aqua Linings Tel: 0800 203 257 / 083 442 4600 www.polypools.co.za
Techno Marketing Tel: 021 852 8259 / 082 771 5818 Wilcote Tel: 032 942 2022/33 www.wilcote.co.za
4. Websites and publications Call 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for the following publications, available from the ARC in Silverton (these publications are also available in Afrikaans): • Earth Dams • Manual for the building of circular reservoirs • Affordable round dam for farms: a do-it-yourself manual Find relevant statistics and information on www.wrc.org.za, the website of the Water Research Commission.
5. Legal requirements before constructing new dams, altering existing dams or repairing dams that failed There are three legal requirements that must be met before a person may construct, alter or repair a dam, namely Entitlement to Water Use, Dam Safety Regulations and Environmental Legislation.
Entitlement to water use (Chapter 4 of the National Water Act, 1998) A Water Use Licence or written authorisation must be obtained from the Regional Director of the relevant region. An extensive guideline named “Water Use Authorisation Application Process” describes this process in detail. Since the acquisition of a new licence for the storage of water takes a considerable time, it is advisable to apply for such a licence as early as possible. Furthermore, the dam safety licence will not be issued for any dam before the Water Use Licence is approved by the Department. In the case of dams that failed, existing lawful water use (subject to verification) will normally be acknowledged but it is essential that confirmation is obtained in writing from the Regional Director. The contact information for the relevant Regional Offices can be found in the “Water” chapter in this directory, or at www.dwaf.gov.za/contactRegions.asp
Requirements in terms of dam safety legislation (Chapter 12 of the National Water Act, 1998) All relevant forms and contact details can be downloaded from www.dwaf.gov.za – take the Dam Safety Office menu option.
Atlas Plastics Tel: 018 469 1201 www.atlasplastics.co.za
Hydrex Waterstorage Tel: 011 440 4472 www.hydrex.co.za
The first step is to apply for classification of the dam on form DW 692E if the wall height exceeds 5,0 m and if the storage capacity exceeds 50 000 m3. The Department will then inform the applicant of the classification of the dam and of further procedures.
Buster Tel: 034 393 1188 / 082 928 1492
Hydrotek International Tel: 011 974 5715 www.hydrotek.co.za
If the dam is classified as a category I dam, apply for a licence to construct on form DW 694E and submit construction drawings. (Construction may only commence after the licence to construct has been issued).
Dam scrapers
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If the dam is classified as a category II or III dam, the services of an approved professional person/engineer (APP) must be obtained. The APP must apply for a licence to construct on behalf of the dam owner (this involves the submission of an application form, design report, engineering drawings and construction specifications). (Construction may only commence after the licence to construct has been issued). The APP must also ensure that an adequate quality control programme is in place during the construction period. Before starting with storage of water, the APP must apply for a licence to impound (this involves the submission of an operation and maintenance manual and emergency preparedness plan together with an application form DW 696E). After completion of all construction work, the APP must submit a completion report, completion drawings and a completion certificate stating that the work has been completed according to his/her specifications. On completion, the dam must be registered on form DW 693E.
Requirements in terms of environmental legislation The provisions and regulations of Government Notices GN 385, GN 386 and GN 387, dated 21 April 2006, promulgated in terms of sections 24, 24D and 24[5], read with section 44 of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) regarding control over activities which may have a detrimental effect on the environment, must be complied with. Normally it will be required that an environmental impact assessment (EIA) must be carried out before construction of a new dam or raising/reconstruction of an existing dam will be authorised. Written authorisation must be obtained from the relevant provincial government department before commencing with the project.
6. Legal requirements for existing dams Entitlement to water use Section 21(b) of the National Water Act, 1998 (Act 36 of 1998) defines storage of water as a water use. If more than 10 000 m3 of water is stored or in case a dam has a full supply surface area of more than 1,0 hectare, then that water use must be registered on a form that will be supplied by the Regional Director for this purpose. However, in some Water Management Areas the general authorisation does not allow any dam, irrespective of size, outside the licensing procedure and in those areas all dams must be registered. Please contact the relevant Regional Office for information in this regard.
Requirements in terms of dam safety legislation All dams with a safety risk (a dam with a wall height exceeding 5,0 m and with the storage capacity exceeding 50 000 m3) must be registered on form DW 693E. The Department must be notified of any changes of particulars (dam owner, address, telephone numbers, person in control, etc.) The dam must be operated and maintained in a responsible manner. Basically this requires that the owner, or the person appointed by the owner, will visit and inspect the dam on a regular (at least weekly) basis. Maintenance work must be done regularly. In the case of unsafe conditions, emergency procedures and safety measures must be taken and the Department informed about it. The dam owner must arrange for the execution of a formal dam safety inspection when instructed to do so by the Department (at intervals between 5 and 10 years). In the case of category II and III dams the inspection must be done by an APP. In the case of category I dams it is not prescribed by whom the inspection must be done but it is in the owner’s interest to appoint an experienced person to perform this task. If necessary, the inspection report will indicate what work should be done to upgrade the dam to acceptable safety standards.
Source: www.dwa.gov.za. Our thanks to Francois van der Merwe and Jan Nortje of DWA for feedback on the draft chapter.
Inputs 4x4s and other vehicles 1. Associations involved Automobile Association (AA) Tel: 083 843 22 www.aa.co.za
resolution forum for the South African Motor Industry and its customers”
Automotive Industry Export Council www.aiec.co.za
National Association of Automotive Component & Allied Manufactures (NAACAM) Tel: 011 392 4060 / 5748 www.naacam.co.za
Civil Aviation Authority Tel: 011 545 1000 www.caa.co.za Regulates aviation in South Africa. Provides official information for the aviation industry. Commercial Aviation Association of South Africa Tel: 011 659 2345 www.caasa.co.za Find the link to affiliate associations e.g. Airports & Aerodromes Association of Southern Africa, the Helicopter Association of Southern Africa etc. Motor Industry Bargaining Council Tel: 011 369 7750 www.mibco.org.za Motor Industry Development Council (MIDC) Tel: 012 564 5245
National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) Tel: 012 323 2980 www.naamsa.co.za National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Tel: 011 789 2542/3 NADA is a constituent association of the broader retail motor industry organisation Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) Tel: 011 886 6300 www.rmi.org.za South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA) Tel: 021 939 9440
Southern African Vehicle The Motor Industry Ombudsman Rental and Leasing Association of South Africa (see www.miosa. (SAVRALA) – www.savrala.co.za co.za) is the “independent dispute
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2. Websites and publications • CAR Magazine Tel: 011 301 4447 www.cartoday.com. They also have booklets and technical booklets e.g. 4x4, Auto Africa and Techno Burst. • Leisure Wheels – the “adventure motoring magazine”. Tel: 011 704 3046. www.leisurewheels.com • Truck and Trailer Tel: 011 888 6686 www.truckandtrailer.co.za. They publish a photo-concept magazine for commercial vehicles (which includes agricultural equipment). • Subscribe to the weekly newsletter from www.motormag.co.za, “South Africa’s first motor magazine online!” • Find the Automotive pages on www.mbendi.co.za (take the “Industries” option). Overviews, news and events are captured. • www.naamsa.co.za – the website of the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa. News, statistics and initiatives within the industry may be found here, including month-bymonth national sales. • www.car.co.za – for updates on motoring, motorsport and motoring services (including insurance, car-hire and a newsletter) • www.autotrader.co.za • The South African Automotive Yearbook and Industry Database is the authoritative guide to the industry in South Africa. The book can be ordered online: www.mbendi.co.za - select “Automotive yearbook” menu option. • Agricultural publications like Landbouweekblad and Farmer’s Weekly carry articles about bakkies, cars and other vehicles.
3. 4x4s, bakkies and motor vehicles • Audi – www.audi.co.za • BMW South Africa – www.bmw.co.za • Chevrolet – www.chevrolet.co.za • Colt – www.mitsubishi-motors.co.za • Fiat – www.fiat.co.za • Ford – www.ford.com OR www.ford.co.za • GWM – www.gwm.co.za • Honda – www.honda.co.za • Hyundai – www.hyundai.co.za • Isuzu – www.isuzu.co.za OR www.delta.co.za • Kia Motors – www.kia.co.za • Land Rover – www.landrover.co.za • Lexus – www.lexus.co.za • Mazda – www.mazda.co.za • Mercedes Benz – www.daimlerchrysler.co.za • Nissan – www.nissan.co.za • Opel – www.opel.co.za OR www.delta.co.za • Proton Cars South Africa – www.protoncars.co.za • Suzuki Auto South Africa – www.suzukiauto.co.za • Toyota – www.toyota.co.za • Volkswagen – www.vw.co.za
4. ATVs and Others Some companies listed under heading 3 also supply quad bikes and motorcycles. See www.honda.co.za
Adendorff Machinery Mart Tel: 011 683 8360 www.tooltime.co.za Motorcycles supplied
and
quads
Dicla Tel: 011 662 1371/63 Battery Power Tel: 021 852 5493 www.batterypower.co.za Sit and ride vehicles for kids GROGRO Tel: 012 348 3006 www.grogro.co.za Jetrunner Tel: 084 604 3815 www.batterypower.co.za
Quadmaster Tel: 033 330 6247 www.quadmaster.co.za also Rhino Tralies Tel: 051 448 4842 Rails (“tralies”) for bakkies Savannah Africa Tel: 043 732 1321 www.savannahac.co.za “the bakkie of the sky” Rambo – see Work Horse Rotor Ops Tel: 079 697 3931 www.rotorops.co.za Helicopter charter and pilot recruiting services
Battery powered quads, bikes, Sifort scooters, golf trolleys etc Tel: 012 667 2586 www.sifort.co.za Muck Truck Tel: 016 423 2484 / 082 506 9872 Awnings for trucks and trailers www.mucktrucksa.com SMM Steel Top “Built for rugged outdoor life” Tel: 011 787 0014
[email protected] Nigel Plen (Pty) Limited Tel: 011 730 3400 Work Horse and Rambo Tel/fax: 012 348 3006 Ride-on Lawnmowers and other as Cell: 082 801 4676 well as spares
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Livestock Animal Improvement and Breeders 1. Overview • The registration of animals maintains the interest in specific breeds, and also leads to a pursuit of excellence – i.e. to get top performance from the animal. There is a vast difference between performances of the two groups within most breeds where registered animals outperform non-registered animals. There is also a vast price difference between them. The breed is thus promoted, and the breeder obtains maximum return on his investment. • The first objective of the registration of animals is a guarantee to the buyer that the particular animal is authentic in terms of breed, breeding, breeder, performance, breeding values etc. Other objectives include breed improvement and limiting of inbreeding. The farmer who breeds with unregistered animals of a particular breed is not regarded as a bona fide breeder but as a commercial one. • The Breeders’ Societies are a vital part of Organised Agriculture. • Registered animals around the world are also known as Seedstock,Stud-, Pedigree- and Pure-bred animals. With the infrastructure breed societies have, it is easy and straightforward to register animals.
Livestock Registering Federation (LRF) Tel: 051 446 0456 The Livestock Registering Federation is an association of Breeders Society and includes many of the larger breed Societies in South Africa and the Namibian Stud Breeders Association in their membership. In South Africa these societies administer and issue the registrations for their own breeds of cattle and are known as Independent Registering Authorities (IRA). The principal business and purpose of the Livestock Registering Federation is to unite, promote and protect its members acting as Independent Registration Authorities (Animal Improvement Act 62 of 1998), into an affiliated federation. Most IRA’s use the BREEDPLAN animal recording system (see heading 7). Membership and animal details can be found at www.breedplan.co.za. The South African Societies include the: 1. Brahman Cattle Breeders’ Society of SA 2. Brangus Society of SA 3. Limousin Cattle Breeders’ Society of SA 4. SA Braford Society of SA 5. SA Holstein 6. Santa Gertrudis SA 7. Simmentaler/Simbra Cattle Breeders’ Society of SA SA Semen and Embryo Group (SAVSEG) C/o Dr R de la Rey Tel: 012 250 2359
SOME CONCEPTS: Artificial insemination (AI) is the placement of sperm into a female reproductive tract by other than natural means. The use of AI is a very cost effective way to speed up genetic improvement because it allows the use of superior male animals to be propagated very easily and quickly. Embryo transfer is the process of removing embryos from a superior cow and placing them in a surrogate cow where they develop into a calf. Like AI, embryo transfer is a very cost effective way to speed up genetic improvement. In this instance the genetics of a superior female animal can be propagated. Cloning uses specialised DNA technology to produce multiple, exact copies of a single animal. The first calf was cloned in South Africa in 2003. It is envisaged that cloning will become a cost effective way to speed up genetic improvement as exact replicas of superior animals can be produced.
2. Associations involved SA Stud Book and Animal Improvement Association Tel: 051 410 0900 www.studbook.co.za SA Stud Book is an association of 63 Breeders’ Societies (various breeds and species). Studbook and the ARC Livestock Business Division use the INTERGIS system (see heading 7) for their animal recordings. The objectives of SA Stud Book are to: • assist these Breeder Societies to achieve their respective objectives; • safeguard and advance the collective interests of stud breeders and their breeders’ societies; • act as a mouthpiece for the stud breeding industry; • promote the export of animals with credible pedigrees, registered or recorded with the Association of semen or embryos begotten from animals thus registered or recorded; • render technical and advisory services to breeders’ societies and their members; • act as a breeders’ society in respect of breeds of animals for which no breeders’ society exists.
For details of Breeder Societies, see the “Cattle”, “Sheep” etc headings later in this chapter
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Directorate: Animal and Aqua Production Tel: 012 319 7493
[email protected] The Registrar Tel: 012 319 7424 / 33
[email protected] • The above directorate is responsible for the evaluation of new breeds and the regulation of the activities of breed societies and registration authorities. Application forms to register for the above can be found at www.daff.gov.za. • Regulations pertaining to Animal Improvement are published in the Animal Improvement Act, 1998 (Act 62 of 1998). • The Department also co-ordinates local and regional activities relating to the conservation and sustainable use of animal genetic resources for food and agriculture.
4. Training and research ARC-Livestock Business Division Tel: 012 672 9111 www.arc.agric.za AI courses are offered by the ARC-Livestock Business Division. Find details of the Universities, the Universities of Technology and the Agricultural Colleges in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter. Animal breeding is covered in degrees and diplomas. Some short courses are also offered. The School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at the Central University of Technology (Bloemfontein), for example, offers the following short courses: • Santa Gertrudis Judging Course; • Dorper Judging Course; • Artificial Insemination (Cattle);
• Simbra Judging Course; • Dohne Merino course.
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The University of the Free State runs the post graduate school of animal breeding. This is a body that represents the tuition of post graduate studies in Animal Breeding in South Africa. Specific departments involved here are: Department of Animal, Wildlife and Grassland Sciences Tel: 051 401 2427
[email protected]
Centre for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Tel: 051 401 2163
[email protected]
Most universities which offer agricultural degrees do research in animal breeding. National and Provincial Departments of Agriculture also have an involvement in this regard. Some of the companies involved offer some training as part of their packages e.g. herd management and performance recording by BREEDPLAN, AI courses by Kanhym and Taurus. The LRF-BREEDPLAN Stockman’s School is held annually at Aldam resort during the month of October. Leading national and international speakers discuss the very latest production techniques, market trends, management systems and the latest research to produce better and more efficient cattle. Further details can be found on the LRF website (www.lrf. co.za) or the BREEDPLAN website (www.breedplan.co.za) or by contacting 051 446 0455 (secretariat) or 012 667 5258 (BREEDPLAN).
5. Websites and publications • Many Breeders’ Societies in South Africa publish an annual journal. Contact the respective Societies for further information. • The SA Stud Book website, www.studbook.co.za, has much information and is worth a visit. Furthermore, two publications are available. SA Stud Breeder, a bilingual quarterly magazine published by the SA Studbook and Animal Improvement Association, has articles written by scientists and leaders in the field of livestock and covers topics such as animal health, feeding and nutrition, identification, pastures as well as farmed wildlife under the concept of sustainable agriculture. SA Livestock Breeding is a publication with chapters on all breeds and relevant structures in the industry. • BREEDPLAN and the National Beef Cattle Improvement Scheme (INTERGIS) have publications, updating the market. • The www.breedplan.co.za website has many tip sheets and articles on their website on performance recording. Details of Societies in most beef and sheep counties in the world are listed. The BREEDPLAN websites currently receive over 3 Million page impressions per month. • Beef News is a publication done by Taurus twice annually. • www.agriwiki.co.za has information on the different animal breeds. • The International Committee for Animal Recording (ICAR) website is www.icar.org
6. Companies involved Software programmes Many on-farm software programmes applicable to animal breeding are available for producers. Many combine the functionality of herd management with on-farm recording. Some of the programmes listed have selection decision aids. Small stock and poultry Eggs2000 Gallus TM C/o ARC-LBD Tel: 012 672 9068
Plan-a-head pig Tel: 033 342 7888 www.planahead.co.za
HerdMASTER Tel: 012 667 5258 www.agribsa.co.za
Shepherd Tel: 049 842 1113 http://Gadi.agric.za
Pig Pro Tel: 017 819 3027 / 8 Cell: 082 900 5915 www.planahead.co.za
Studmaster Tel: 0861-101-525 www.studmaster.com
Dairy Agrimelk Tel: 012 365 2683 www.softwarefarm.co.za
Beef Agribeef Tel: 012 365 2683 www.softwarefarm.co.za
DIMSSA Tel: 051 447 9123 www.dimssa.co.za
Beefpro Tel: 012 672 9145 Cell: 082 801 2026 www.beefpro.net
Milkfriend Cell: 082 555 5054 www.milkfriend.co.za Plan-a-head Dairy Tel: 033 342 7888 www.planahead.co.za Triomelk Tel: 012 376 4180 www.saboer.co.za Equine Equimaster Tel: 012 667 5258 Fax: 012 667 5259 www.agribsa.co.za
HerdMASTER Tel: 012 667 5258 www.agribsa.co.za Plan-a-head Beef Tel: 033 342 7888 www.planahead.co.za Studmaster Tel: 0861-101-525 www.studmaster.com Triobees Tel: 012 376 4180 www.saboer.co.za
Artificial Insemination/Embryos ABS South Africa Mr MC Steyn – 082 809 2999 ARC-Livestock Business Division Tel: 012 672 9111 www.arc.agric.za
Ramsem Tel: 051 441 7913/4 www.ramsem.com Semark Tel/fax: 033 234 4382 Cell: 083 630 4124
[email protected]
The “Animal Genetics and Biotechnology” and the “Animal Semex Southern Africa Recording and Improvement” units Tel: 021 905 0225 www.semex.co.za are both relevant to this chapter. Brakfontein Embryo Centre Tel: 046 685 0519 www.dohnemerino.org/ brakfontein
Taurus Tel: 012 667 1122/8 www.taurus.co.za
BREEDPLAN SA Tel: 012 667 5258 www.agribsa.co.za
VRIESIT Veterninary Andrology Laboratories Tel: 012 547 0446 www.vriesit.com
Embryo Plus Tel: 012 250 2359 www.embryoplus.com
W Pringle Export Holdings Tel: 021 557 0606 Fax: 021 557 6522
GAI (Genetic Actions International CC) / Genimex Tel: 012 667 1012 www.newzealandgenetics.com
Walloon Animal Genetics Tel: 031 303 2840
[email protected]
INTERGIS Tel: 012 672 9064 www.studbook.co.za/intergis Kanhym Estates Tel: 014 577 4558 Cell: 082 805 6803 www.kanhym.co.za
World Wide Sires South Africa Tel: 021 557 0606
[email protected] www.wwsires.co.za Zais International (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 768 4264 Fax: 011 768 4265
Exporting/importing • There are procedures and protocols applicable here. For further information contact the Registrar of Animal Improvement / Directorate Animal Health. • A number of companies operate as Export / Import agents. Two examples are:
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Veterinary Import-Export Authority CC Tel: 012 361 3116 Fax: 012 348 2644
Buiatrica Farming SA Tel/fax: 012 667 2548
[email protected]
They provide a consulting service pertaining to the international movement of animals and animal products. An inspection service is offered. They compile the documents, take these through the various departments.
Other Agri-Expo Tel: 021 975 4440 www.agriexpo.co.za Agri-Expo supports Breeder Societies by presentation of championships.
7. Breeds and Breeder Societies A Breeders’ Society may be formed if members of a particular breed wish to form such a society. The application forms can be obtained from the registrar at the National Department of Agriculture. Breed societies exist for most breeds of animals. The objectives of most societies are to: • promote and develop their breed; • offer various services to their members; • improve the national herd in the country. The Animal Improvement Act of 1998 allows societies to issue their own registration certificates if they so wish. These societies act as their own registering authorities. The SA Stud Book is a registration authority providing registration and secretarial services on behalf of many different breed societies. Registration certificates certify that an animal is a “stud” animal and is issued on behalf of the Breeders’ Society. These certificates are intended to be a guarantee that the animal has met certain requirements as laid down by the society and registering authority. A list of registered breed societies with their contact details is given under relevant headings later in this chapter. Lists may also be found at the following websites: • www.studbook.co.za • www.agribsa.co.za • www.taurus.co.za
Performance recording Performance recording entails the measuring of traits that affects the profitability of the animal and ultimately the breed. Different breeds measure different attributes based on what is considered important to that breed. Members of cattle breed societies usually measure attributes such as reproduction, growth, carcass and functional efficiency. Merino breeders would for example measure additional traits such as fibre diameter and fleece weight. Performance recording occurs at different levels. There are a number of privately run schemes whereby producers form groups to promote the interests of the group and measure certain traits that are of interest to the group. In general, breeders in a district will form a club. Superior animals are then selected from within a grouping of animals that are usually run under similar environmental conditions.
Recording schemes administered by societies themselves Many of the societies in South Africa administer their own performance recording schemes. Examples include the Dohne Merino society, most of the equine societies and many beef cattle societies.
National Recording Scheme The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) runs the National Recording Scheme’s for beef, smallstock, pigs, poultry and dairy cattle. A performance scheme for developing farmers has also been established. These schemes use the INTERGIS as the data platform. The INTERGIS integrates registration and performance data. Find “Livestock Schemes” on www.arc.agric.za.
BREEDPLAN A number of the Societies in South Africa use the international BREEDPLAN recording system. BREEDPLAN is used by over 100 Breed Societies or corporate’s that offer Stud Book services in 15 countries. It has over 60 000 member producers and routinely does across-country evaluations. Further details of the system can be found at the www.agribsa.co.za website. The Namibian Stud Breeders Association (NSBA) uses the BREEDPLAN system as its National Registration and Recording system. Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) allow animals of all species that are performance recorded to be fairly compared to one another regardless of herd of origin, year of birth, sex or season. EBVs are the basis of most performance recording systems. BREEDPLAN also provides Rand Index values where EBVs are combined into a single figure that meets specific market requirements for a particular animal.
8. Cattle Beef breeds: Afrigus Club Tel: 051 447 9849 Fax: 051 447 2378 Afrikaner Cattle Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 051 447 7405 www.afrikanercattle.com Afrisim (c/o the Afrikaner Cattle Breeders’ Society of SA) Charl van Rooyen – 082 575 6370 Angus Society of SA Tel: 051 447 9849 www.angus.org.za Beefmaster Cattle Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 086 111 3144 www.beefmastersa.co.za Bonsmara Cattle Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 051 448 6084/5
[email protected]
Charolais Cattle Breeders Society of SA Tel: 051 410 0900
[email protected] Dexter Cattle Breeders Society of SA Tel: 082 878 9723
[email protected] Drakensberger Cattle Breeders Society Tel: 017 735 5056/8 www.drakensbergers.co.za Gelbvieh Cattle Breeders Society of SA Tel: 051 410 0952
[email protected] Hugenoot SA Tel: 014 755 4102
[email protected]
Limousin Cattle Breeders Society of SA Tel: 051 444 5082 Boran Cattle Breeders’ Society
[email protected] of SA Nguni Cattle Breeders Society Tel: 051 410 0951 Tel: 051 448 7302/3
[email protected] [email protected] www.ngunicattle.info Brahman Cattle Breeders Society of SA Pinzgauer Cattle Breeders Tel: 051 448 0603 Society of SA
[email protected] Tel: 051 410 0952 www.brahman.co.za
[email protected] Brangus Cattle Breeders Red Poll Cattle Breeders Society of SA Society of SA Tel: 051 444 1144 Tel: 012 673 7492 / 082 857 3980
[email protected] [email protected] www.brangus.org.za www.redpollsa.com Braunvieh SA Romagnola Tel: 051 410 0950 Tel: 041 576 1014 Fax: 051 430 4352 www.romagnola.co.za www.braunviehsa.co.za
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SA Braford Breeders Society Tel: 051 448 0603
[email protected] www.bradford.org.za SA Hereford Breeders’ Society Tel: 051 410 0958
[email protected] SA Senepol Club Tel: 082 449 9863
[email protected] Sanganers Tel: 051 447 2678 Fax: 051 448 8404 Santa Gertrudis SA Tel: 051 444 0418
[email protected] Shorthorn Society of SA Tel: 041 581 3056 Fax: 041 581 3056
[email protected]
Simmentaler/Simbra Cattle Breeders Society of SA Tel: 051 446 0580 / 2
[email protected] /
[email protected] www.simmentaler.org www.simbra.org
Merino Landsheep Society of SA Van Rooy Sheep Breeders’ Tel: 051 447 4953 Society Tel: 053 313 1994 / 083 233 8875 SA Mutton Merino Breeders’ Society Vandor Sheep Breeders Tel: 051 522 6827 / 8 Society of SA
[email protected] Tel/fax: 053 664 0173
South Devon Cattle Breeders Society of SA Tel: 051 410 0950
[email protected]
Suffolk Sheep Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 051 410 0955
[email protected]
Sussex Cattle Breeders Society of SA Tel: 051 447 1121
[email protected] Tuli Cattle Breeders Society of SA Tel: 051 410 0958
[email protected]
Other breeds include Charbray, Brahmousin and Droughtmaster.
Dairy breeds Ayrshire Cattle Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 051 430 5430
[email protected]
SA Friesland Cattle Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 082 566 6776
[email protected]
Jersey SA Tel: 051 444 6249
[email protected]
SA Guernsey Cattle Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 028 542 1426 / 083 441 0555
[email protected]
SA Dairy Swiss Tel: 051 410 0953
[email protected]
SA Holstein Tel: 051 447 9123
[email protected]
9. Sheep Visit the websites of the breeders, linked to www.studbook.co.za Afrino Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 051 821 1856
[email protected] Bapedi Club of SA Tel: 072 275 8257 Damara Sheep Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 051 821 1488
[email protected] Dohne Merino Breed Society of SA Tel: 043 683 1330 www.dohnemerino.org Dormer Sheep Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 051 410 0954
[email protected] Dorper Sheep Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 049 842 2241
[email protected] www.dorper.co.za
Ile de France Sheep Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 051 410 0953
[email protected] Kalahari Red Club Tel: 049 842 4411 / 053 712 2677
[email protected] Karakul Club Tel: 054 337 6237
[email protected] Letelle Sheep Breeders Association Tel: 056 212 6531 www.letelle.co.za Meatmaster Sheep Breeders Society Tel: 051 410 0955
[email protected] Merino Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 049 892 4148
[email protected]
10. Horses Appaloosa Horse Breeders’ Society of SA Tel/fax: 021 855 5469
[email protected]
SA Miniature Horse Breeders’ Society Tel: 051 410 0955
[email protected]
Arab Horse Society of SA Tel: 051 410 0957
[email protected]
SA Paint and Pinto Club Tel: 039 832 0042
[email protected]
Friesian Horse Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 051 410 0954
[email protected]
SA Quarter Horse Association Tel: 082 723 3089
[email protected]
Kaapse Boerperd Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 042 247 2138
[email protected] Lipizzaner Society of SA Tel: 051 448 9347
[email protected] Nooitgedacht Horse Breeders’ Society Cell: 076 900 3537
[email protected] Percheron Horse Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 051 448 9347
[email protected]
SA Sport Horse Federation Tel: 051 448 9347 / 072 854 1641
[email protected] SA Vlaamperd Breeders’ Society Tel/fax: 022 481 3614
[email protected] SA Warmblood Horse Society Tel: 011 702 2220 / 083 260 6495
[email protected] Saddle Horse Breeders’ Society of SA Tel: 051 410 0956
[email protected]
Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association of SA SA Boerperd Breeders’ Society Tel: 011 825 1713 Tel: 051 410 0952
[email protected] [email protected] Welsh Pony Society of SA SA Hackney Horse Breeders’ Tel: 012 668 1003 / 083 788 2503 Society
[email protected] Tel: 051 410 0955
[email protected] SA Hackney Pony Breeders’ Society Tel: 021 396 1245 / 072 396 9099 Fax: 021 705 7104
11. Goats Angora Goats Tel: 049 836 0140 Fax: 049 836 0329 SA Boer Goat Breeders’ Society Tel/fax: 049 842 4411
[email protected]
SA Milch Goat Breeders’ Society Tel: 051 410 0953
[email protected] Savanna Goat Breeders’ Society of SA Tel/fax: 049 842 4411
[email protected]
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12. Pigs Pig Breeders Society of South Africa Tel: 051 410 0955 Fax: 051 448 4220
[email protected] PO Box 506 Bloemfontein 9300 Breeds include Chester White, Duroc, Large Black, Large White, Hampshire, Hamline, Pietran, Robuster, SA Landrace, Welsh. The Pig Breeders’ Society of South Africa (PBS) was formed on 20 September 1919 and has been affiliated since its inception to the South African Stud Book and Livestock Improvement Association. The Objectives of the PBS are: • to bring about an improvement in the general standard of all recognised pig breeds in South Africa; • to keep registration and performance records of the pedigrees and purebred boars and sows duly registered through the PBS; • to enhance the functional production and economic merit of stud animals through active participation in the National Pig Performance; and • to participate in the National Pig performance Testing Scheme (NPPTS) of the Agriculture Research Council’s Livestock Business Division, Irene. A list of their members – amongst other information – can be found on their webpages at www.studbook.co.za
• Stud breeding is a long-term investment with no instant formula for quick results. • A stud breeder must be prepared to continually broaden his knowledge and keep abreast of modern developments and tendencies. • The breeder must aim for a breeding programme that recognises the most economic characteristics of the breed – avoid a haphazard breeding policy. • Use all the modern selection aids to facilitate a stud-breeding venture e.g. keeping of records with one of the Registering Authorities and Performance Testing. • Prospective stud breeders must have certain managerial qualities, as stud breeding requires sound decision-making, planning and care of the animals. • Good public relations are essential. Easy communication with people and honesty with yourself and with others play an important role. • The chosen breed should suit your production system.
Registering Authorities: Knowing about the relationship between individual animals (i.e. who the father is/was), AND performance measurements are vital for the genetic improvement of farm livestock. Classical pedigrees (which reflect only the name/number of an animal and its ancestor) have a limited value when it comes to livestock improvement. Modern pedigrees are: • based on scientifically founded recording methods and systems; • linked to performance. These are indispensable for optimal genetic progress. A record is kept on these results. Find details of the National Recording Scheme, INTERGIS as well as BREEDPLAN under heading 7.
Artificial Insemination (AI)
13. Other breeds Consult the Speciality Fibre Production (Alpacas) and Ostrich chapters. The Africanis Society of Southern Africa Johan Gallant (President) Tel: 033 343 2699
[email protected]
Because of the increasing number of black cattle farmers turning to AI, Taurus holds Farmers’ Days to give developing farmers practical advice. Successful projects exist in Hammanskraal, Rust de Winter and Mokopane. Joel Nkuna (Taurus) can be contacted at 082 807 1557.
SA Studbook/Unistel Award: Emerging Farmer of the Year
See the Indigenous Breeds chapter.
When Element Mashai lost his job in 1994, he put his UIF money to good use – he bought himself 10 cattle.
South African Sheep Dog Association (SASDA) Tel: 017 735 1844
[email protected] www.sasda.za.net
After a major drought, during which he had to move his cattle to look for grazing, he rented a farm of 200ha in the Modjadjiskloof area, where he now keeps his stud and commercial herd, which he uses for producing calves for the feedlot market.
www.sa-breeders.co.za – for dogs and cats
This multi-skilled man is also a roadwork artisan who works as site manager for a construction company.
14. Emerging farmer information
Element mentions various characteristics that he deems important for a good stud breeder. “Firstly and most importantly, you must love cattle. You must have a passion for your breed; patience, energy and willingness to put in a large effort; and a good knowledge of both stud breeding and the traits of your breed”.
When deciding on a breed, the following points are important: • Preference and love of the breed is imperative. • Suitability of the farm for stud breeding, i.e.: - situation of property; - quality of grazing; - supplementary feed production potential and/or availability source of supply; - sufficient, well watered camps; - good handling, kraaling and, if necessary, shedding facilities. • Provision for fairly large financial commitments, especially at the outset in order to finance the purchase of good breeding material.
Element Mashai is described as someone who participates in all his society’s activities; that he ploughs all his savings back into his animals and that late at night, weekends, Sundays – you’ll find him with his cattle! Source: adapted from the article in SA Studbreeder/Stoetteler October 2009
Our thanks to SA Stud Book and BREEDPLAN. This chapter has been built up mostly from information supplied to us by them.
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Livestock Aquaculture 1. Overview An excellent way to stay up-to-date with developments in aquaculture is to subscribe to the Aquaculture Innovations newsletter. Email leslie@aquaafrica. co.za • Aquaculture – the cultivation of aquatic organisms for human consumption, ornamental or pharmaceutical use • Mariculture – the cultivation of marine organisms • Aquaponics – the combination of aquaculture and hydroponics within a single system whereby the plants utilise the fish waste as a source of nutrients As much as 80 percent of the world’s main fish catch species have now been “exploited beyond or close to their harvest capacity”. In words not to be taken lightly, UNEP is now warning that unless governments around the world enforce some radical changes right now, we could be in the process of witnessing “a collapsing ecosystem”. Should that happen, it would mean nothing short of a catastrophe, with far reaching consequences for marine life – and human life. One billion people around the world rely on fish as their main source of protein, while 2.6 billion of us get at least 20 percent of our animal protein intake from it. The United Nation’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) says that, taking into consideration population growth, we will need an additional 37 million tons of fish a year to feed us all by 2030. The only way to do this is through controlled fish farms. Here, then, is the aquaculture chapter … Source: CNN (adapted), the report “In Dead Water” by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
2. Aquaculture in South Africa Aquaculture in South African consists mainly of freshwater species such as trout, crocodiles, ornamental fish, marron, catfish and tilapia; and marine species such as abalone, fish, prawns, oysters and mussels. Candidate species such as white steenbras, crayfish, kob, yellowtail, grunter, turbot and seaweed are being investigated. Freshwater species are generally farmed in recirculating systems, earth ponds, cages or raceways whereas marine fish are farmed in onshore recirculating systems or cages in sheltered bays. The marine molluscs are farmed on rafts or longlines, and abalone are produced in tanks through which marine water is pumped continuously. The technology and services are well establish for species such as ornamental fish, tilapia, trout, crocodiles, catfish, abalone, prawns, oysters and mussels, and are being refined for species such as kob, yellowtail and seaweed. The most important areas for the production of warm water species (including catfish, tilapia, carp and ornamental fish) are the Limpopo Province, Mpumalanga Lowveld and northern KwaZulu-Natal. Trout are farmed along the high mountains in Lydenburg area, KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg and the Western Cape. Marine prawns were farmed on two facilities in Zululand, but the strong Rand and cheap imports resulted in the closure of these facilities; there is a new project for super-intensive prawn production being rolled out near Port Elizabeth. Abalone is the big success story of South African aquaculture. It has grown from a total production of farmed abalone of less that 100kg in 1996, to approximately 1 000 tons produced in 2008, with an export value of US$32million (R256-million). This species is a highly prized and priced cuisine in south eastern Asia, but the international wild population has been radically reduced through poaching.
The global trend towards the farming of marine fish species has also become a major new focus in South African aquaculture. Thus far only two companies are operational, but a number of other marine fish farming ventures are being planned at present. South Africa is still in the developing phase of aquaculture, which is an underutilised market with great potential for job creation and food security.
3. A closer look Overviews of the production statistics, trends and status of the key sectors of the South African aquaculture industry may be obtained from AASA (see heading 4). The timely collection, reporting and dissemination of reliable production statistics on aquaculture in South and Southern Africa is one challenge that needs to be addressed by the industry and governing authorities. • Water hawthorne (Aponegeton distachyos). The sector is fragmented and informal in nature which complicates the dissemination of data. The water hawthorne sector seems to be stimulated by the increase in tourism in the Western Cape, and products are becoming available at specialised shops and retail counters. •Goldfish (Carrasius auratus) has shown a steady growth in local retail sales, but the vast majority of these fish are being imported from the Far East and Israel. Currently around 85% of the goldfish sold in South Africa are imported as local producers struggle to compete with cheap imports. • The reduction in ornamental Koi carp (C. carpio) production was caused by a severe global and local outbreak of Koi herpes virus that has adversely affected local production and global trade. The sector has recovered from this setback, with the majority of high value koi being imported and the lower grades being obtained from imports and local production. Significant opportunities exist in this sector for further producers. • Not much development has been recorded with regard to other ornamental fish species, particularly since the closure of large-scale operations in KwaZulu-Natal in 2003. The sector revolves mainly around small-scale production systems, hobbyists and informal trading, although huge potential exists within this sector for investment and employment to produce local product to replace imported product. It was estimated that 250 boxes of ornamental fish were imported into South Africa weekly during 2006, representing at least 2/3 of the fish sold within the country. • Little development is currently taking place with regard to bass (Micropterus salmoides), carp (Cyprinus carpio) and mullet (Mugulidae) species, although there is scope for all three.
ABALONE Abalone Association of South Africa Tel: 028 384 1371 Fax: 028 384 0023
[email protected]
Abalone Farmers Association of Southern Africa (AFASA) Wayne Barnes (President) Tel: 021 785 1477
Abalone Farmers are represented through the Abalone Farmer’s Association of Southern Africa (AFASA). AFASA is a very active producer association which promotes research to solve common problems and undertakes various projects to promote the interests of abalone farmers. About a hundred species of abalone occur world wide, with some species popular in the Far East where they form an important part of traditional menus. The South African species, Haliotis midae, or perlemoen, enjoys high acceptability in these markets because of its excellent taste and the white colour and texture of its meat. Successful artificial culture of the species Haliotis midae led to the establishment of some 15 commercial farms in SA since the 1990’s, with more sites under investigation by potential investors. It takes 3 years to grow an abalone to the market size of 100g or 80mm length. Present total farmed production in SA is approximately 1 000 tons live mass per annum with a farm gate value of R256 million. About 70 tons are exported as canned product and the rest mainly as live abalone. Although profitability is affected by fluctuations of the Rand exchange rate, the price of farmed abalone has remained stable around $32/kg live weight and the long term future of the industry remains attractive.
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Services to the sector such as feed and seed supplies, veterinary services, equipment, processing, etc. are fairly well established and improving. Although some farms use only kelp for feed, most use both kelp and a formulated artificial feed. The abalone industry is making an important contribution towards the socio-economic development of coastal communities.
TROUT Western Cape Trout Association Tel: 021 372 1100 Krijen Resoort – 072 245 7605
Mpumalanga Trout Producers Forum Tel: 013 235 1248
[email protected]
The four main areas of production are Mpumalanga (500 tons, 14 farms), Western Cape (450 tons, 14 farms), KwaZulu-Natal (150 tons, 4 farms) and the Eastern Cape (20 tons, 3 farms). A variety of production systems such as cages, earth ponds, raceways and circular ponds are used for production. Fingerlings, feed and production technology is readily available, with market access being the main factor regulating the growth of the industry. There has been a shift in individual producer tonnage as smaller producers have fallen away and larger producers benefit from increased economy of scale within their businesses. The industry is expected to grow by 2 to 3 % per year. The sport fishery and related ecotourism industries have developed into an important sector of its own and provides an important economic contribution to the rural areas of KZN, Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga. Trout lends itself to the production of a wide range of value added products. Approximately 60 to 70 % is sold in the food service sector and 30 to 40 % in the retail sector. Direct sales to local markets also play an important role in terms of marketing. Trout ova are also exported from South Africa on a regular basis during the winter months. Services providers such as feed suppliers, hatchery services, equipment suppliers, veterinary services and processors are well represented in Mpumalanga and the Western Cape. Production costs are generally higher than in Europe due to less favourable economies of scale. Fluctuation in the value of the Rand and cyclical oversupplies on world markets often affect the local industry in terms of competition from substitute products such as imported Pacific and Atlantic salmon. The sector does, however, manage to maintain stability and competitiveness, particularly with regard to value added products.
PRAWNS Conditions in South Africa that are conducive for the culture of prawns are limited to the north eastern coastal regions of KwaZulu-Natal. There was only one commercial producer in South Africa, namely Mtunzini Prawn Farms (Pty) Ltd (trading as Amatikulu Prawns). Their farms were based on the Umlalazi (Mtinzini) and Amatikulu river estuaries. Mtunzini Prawn Farms was liquidated in 2003 due to the strengthening of the Rand making their product non competitive on the global markets. A new operation is currently farming prawns at Coega to the east of Port Elizabeth. This operation is based on super-intensive, zero-exchange technology, which is very new internationally and consequently this operation is run behind closed doors. The investors were satisfied with the outcome of the pilot phase and are now rolling out a R9.2bn investment.
TILAPIA BREAM (Tilapia Growers Association) Tel: 011 974 5715
[email protected] www.aquaculture-africa.com The tilapia industry in South Africa is in an introductory phase with widespread interest from several sectors of the local economy as well as from abroad. Tilapia has gained widespread acceptance on global markets and is currently the second most produced finfish species in the world behind carp. The main tilapia species (Oreochromis niloticus, O. aureus, O. mosambicus) are all indigenous to Africa indicating suitable environmental conditions and natural resources. Africa’s production focuses mainly on
informal local markets and household food security and is contributing very little to global markets at this stage, although there is a large project on Lake Kariba (www.lakeharvest.com). The transfer of the species from Africa to Asia and Central America has lead to the development of substantial industrial sectors in those regions for supply of first world markets in Asia, Europe and North America. Domestic tilapia production methods vary from extensive to highly intensive farming systems. There are approximately 15 tilapia producers in South Africa of which most (10) are operative in the warmer Northern and Eastern regions of South Africa. The sector also incorporates a substantial informal sector of which the output is difficult to quantify. Various small scale and pilot phase operations have been initiated over the past two years. Production in conventional open water systems is hampered by the cold winter climate with temperatures below 24 oC occurring in large parts of South Africa. The sector can to some extent rely on the service providers supplying other sectors, although the geographical distribution and associated logistics are presenting some problems in this regard. A large potential exists for future development of tilapia aquaculture in the region, both in terms of subsistence farming systems and as an export commodity. The biggest hindrance to the growth of the tilapia industry in South Africa is the illegal status of all species other than O. mossambicus, which is too slow growing to justify commercial investment. O. niloticus grows at roughly double the rate of O. mossambicus, and has been the focus of international genetic refinement, further improving the suitability of this species for aquaculture. Until they are legalised for culture in South Africa the tilapia industry will remain marginal. This species makes a highly suitable species for community projects due to its toughness. Current changes to the relevant legislation should mean that producers can soon apply for permits to farm O. niloticus, and this should stimulate the growth of the industry in areas where such permits are obtained.
CATFISH Catfish Supreme Johan Kooij – 083 298 1311 Tel: 018 264 4294
[email protected] Catfish Supreme operates 5 commercial super-intensive recirculating units that are distributed over a wide geographical area including Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and North West provinces. These farms have a total capacity of 1000 tons per year at a potential value of about R 16 million, although little is currently being produced.
Jagido Holdings Gido Crous – 084 2400 636 Jagido Holdings operates a recirculating catfish farm that includes a hydroponics unit in George. They have a production capacity of 80 tons per annum. They are also seeking to create a marketing company to unify the marketing of all aquaculture products across South Africa.
Despite its enormous aquaculture potential this species has not gained a foothold in South Africa or in Europe, and all local production is very small scale and supplying localised markets.
EELS The Anguillid Research Institute (ARI) was established with the objective of co-ordinating efforts directed towards the development of a sustainable eel aquaculture sector in South and Southern Africa. Their mother company, SA Eels (Pty) Ltd (in partnership with overseas investors and technology partners), planned to establish four 300 MT intensive eel farming systems in the Eastern Cape, Western Cape and Mpumalanga, but unfortunately was unable to obtain the necessary permits and has subsequently closed. The total value of this production would have been in the region of R42 million p.a. The potential still exists for another operator to invest in the development of a local eel farming venture and the international demand for eels is huge at around 230 000 tons p.a. and undersupplied due to the reliance of wild glass eels as seed stock for aquaculture. Any local investor would need to firstly establish the migratory patterns and volumes of glass eels to ensure sufficient stock is available for local production.
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5. National strategy
MUSSELS AND OYSTERS The oyster and mussel sectors have been characterised by steady growth over the past few years. Production of oysters and mussels are currently limited to the areas of Algoa Bay, Knysna, Saldanha Bay and Alexander Bay/Port Nolloth. Existing operations are expanding production according to local demand, whilst the potential of new production ventures are also being evaluated. Substantial quantities of mussels are still imported into SA. The sector is expected to double its production over the next fiveyear period, although suitable sites along the coast are limited. Problems associated with a coastal monitoring programme for harmful algal blooms and other factors influencing food safety issues, are hampering the export potential of this sector.
CROCODILES The South African Crocodile Farmer’s Association (SACFA) Tel: 012 807 4100
[email protected] www.sacfa.co.za
Croc City Crocodile Farm Tel: 083 321 1016 Izintaba www.izintaba.com
Revenue may be derived from Ratho Farms skins, meat, and hatchling sales but Tel: 015 575 1425 www.ratho.co.za also from a tourist market. SACFA usually recommend one or the other (Production for export or Tourism) as your target market will determine the methodology and expertise that will be required.
Riverbend Crocodile Farm Tel: 039 316 6204 www.crocodilecrazyl.co.za
• The Farm Animal Unit has become very closely involved with the Crocodile Farmers Association and both parties have come together to formulate a code of practice through the SABS. This code lays down minimum standards within the industry and will apply to all parties who keep or breed crocodiles in captivity, including tourist parks. • Regular inspections of breeding farms and tourist attractions are carried out and regular contact is maintained with the association.
4. Associations involved Find details of different producer groups under heading 3.
The website provides a background to aquaculture, gives details on new developments – well worth a visit for interested parties. ASSA has representation from the various sectors contributing towards the aquaculture industry of the region – producers as well as service providers (feed companies, equipment suppliers etc).
Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Animal and Aqua Production Governing body for Freshwater Aquaculture Tel: 012 319 7662
[email protected] Marine Resource Management Previously part of DEAT Tel: 021 402 3911 Department of Water and Environmental Affairs (DWEA) Tel: 080 020 0200 www.dwaf.gov.za
Thaba Kwena Tel: 014 736 4774 / 082 576 9540
National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA): Farm Animal Unit Tel: 011 907 3590/1/2 www.nspca.co.za
The Aquaculture Association of South Africa (AASA) Tel: 012 807 6720
[email protected] www.aasa-aqua.co.za
The move of “Fisheries”, previously a directorate in the Department of Environment and Tourism (DEAT), to the Department of Agriculture promises a more streamlined government approach to aquaculture. The implementation is expected to take some time, and at the time of writing (January 2010) this merger is not yet complete. We print previous contacts here, and encourage the reader to keep an eye on www.daff.gov.za for updates.
The objectives of the Association are to contribute towards the development of aquaculture in Southern Africa through effective representation and dissemination of information. South African Koi Keepers Society Tel: 011 433 2665 www.koisa.co.za South African Pet Traders Association Craig Campbell – 082 458 3904
Infosa (Infopeche Regional Office in SADC Region) Tel: +264 61 279 430
[email protected] www.infosa.org.na An intergovernmental organisation for marketing information and co-operation services in Africa. INFOSA is the regional office for the SADC region. Endangered Wildlife Trust Marine and Coastal Working Group Tel: 011 486 1102 / 082 576 3107
[email protected] www.ewt.org.za
Current legislation includes the Marine Living Resources Act of 1998 (MLRA), the National Environmental Management Act (Act No. 107 of 1998), the related National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (Act No. 10 of 2004) and the Draft Alien and Invasive Species Regulations, 2007. The last three are powerful laws regulating environmental assessment and the use of exotic species respectively. As many cultured species are exotic, there is an environmental incentive to introduce other economically attractive species, although the Draft Alien and Invasive Species Regulations, 2007 does not negatively affect the species currently being farmed to the degree that was feared. South African legislation and regulations pertaining to aquaculture in their current form are adequate from an environmental management perspective, but have raised questions from the perspective of sectoral growth stimulation.
6. Training and research Companies like Abagold do in- Clients include extension officers house training. Visit www.abagold. throughout SADC, entrepreneurs, com companies and individuals. Aquaculture Innovations Leslie Ter Morshuizen Tel: 046 622 3690 / 083 406 0208
[email protected] www.aquaafrica.co.za
The theoretical training is offered at various locations around the region, whereas the practical training is either done on site or at the Aquaculture Academy in Grahamstown. Distance learning is Aquaculture Innovations is a Service made possible through DVDs. Provider to the Aquaculture Industry throughout Southern Aquaculture Institute of South Africa, providing consulting services Africa as well as theoretical and practical
[email protected] training in aquaculture. Tel: 021 430 7026
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The CSIR (Council for Scientific and Industrial Research) has promoted several aquaculture projects over the years. KZN Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs & Rural Development Makhathini Research Station Tel: 035 572 5303 Oceanographic Research Institute – Durban Tel: 031 328 8222 Rhodes University www.ru.ac.za
The University was involved with a fish farmers’ co-operative whereby fish are cultivated in floating cages made up of a wooden platform and steel supports covered with netting. This device is then anchored in the deepest part of the dam where the water is the cleanest. The University also has a programme whereby staff on farms are assisted to establish cage culture in irrigation dams as a second source of income. Contact Danie Brink in this regard: db@sun. ac.za
Department of Ichthyology and Tompi Seleka Agricultural College runs a course which Fisheries Science (DIFS) covers the practical and theoretical Tel: 046 603 8415/6 methods of aquaculture. Call 013
[email protected] 268 9300/1/2. The DIFS has a long standing involvement in the development of abalone farming and more recently in developing the farming of indigenous marine fish species. The South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity Tel: 046 603 5800
[email protected] “Research excellence for the sustainability of Africa’s aquatic environments”. SAIAB is a Research Facility of the National Research Foundation (NRF) The South African Network for Coastal and Oceanic Research (SANCOR) is a consultative, communicative and advisory body that represents institutions and scientists from different provinces and disciplines. Visit http://sancor. nrf.ac.za Stellenbosch University Division of Aquaculture Tel: 021 808 4737
[email protected]
University of the Free State Department of Zoology and Entomology Prof JG van As – 051 401 2427 Prof L Basson – 051 401 3244 University of Limpopo Tel: 015 268 2203 / 188 www.ul.ac.za An Aquaculture Research Unit and an Experimental Farm are among the facilities offered by the School. Other Universities, which have project-based involvement in aquaculture include the Cape Peninsular University of Technology (CPUT), University of Cape Town, Nelson Mandela Cosmopolitan University and the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Most of these contact details can be found in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter. Water Research Commission Tel: 012 330 0340 www.wrc.org.za
7. Websites and publications • Leslie Ter Morshuizen of Aquaculture Innovations compiles an Aquaculture electronic newsletter. Contact leslie@aquaafrica. co.za. Also available are Aquaculture manuals, which serve as a first introduction to the topics they cover, to assist new-comers in determining which branch of aquaculture interests them and how to proceed – and Aquaculture Textbooks covering a wide range of topics including Tilapia Farming, Earth Pond Management, Disease Management and Cage Aquaculture. More recently Aquaculture Innovations recorded a Distance Learning Training Program onto DVD which is available from
[email protected]. • Sign up for the Agritrade Fisheries newsletter from www.cta.int. • Overview of Aquaculture in South Africa: 2003 by Danie Brink, Division of Aquaculture, University of Stellenbosh,
[email protected]. • Find the “Library” menu option on www.feike.co.za. • Find the multilingual Glossary of Aquaculture published by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO). One of the primary objectives of the glossary is for it to serve as a reference to fish farmers, consultants and all those involved or interested in aquaculture. The online glossary of aquaculture is available in the five official languages of FAO (Arabic, Chinese, English, French and Spanish) at the following address: http://www.fao.org/fi/glossary/aquaculture/. • Aquaculture Network Information Centre (AquaNIC) – http://aquanic. org • A number of CD-Roms, videos and publications are available at the “On-line store” menu option at www.was.org, website of the World Aquaculture Society. The World Aquaculture Magazine is available from them. • Integrated Farming Methods – farm ponds for water, fish and livelihoods is a publication by J Miller, produced by the FAO and available online at www.eldis.org. • Fishing Industry Handbook. Contact George Warman Publications. •Fishing News International (United Kingdom). www.intrafish.no/fn is the website. • Maritime Southern Africa is a bi-monthly aimed at the maritime industry. If you make your living from the sea, or are simply interested in mariculture, contact them at 021 914 1157 or
[email protected]. Call 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for the following leaflets, available from the ARC in Silverton: • Processing of Marine Foods (Fish products) • Faktore wat die terreinkeuse van ‘n akwakultuuronderneming beïnvloed • Factors that influence the choice of a site for an aquaculture enterprise • The publication Manure handling in intensive animal production units, written by HT Breedt and edited and revised by F Cilliers (Copyright 2009), covers the topic of utilising animal manure in aquaculture.
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8. Companies and associations involved Company
Contact Details
Information
Abagold (Pty) Ltd
Tel: 028 313 0253
Abalone farming
Absolute Aquaculture Africa (Pty) Ltd
Tel: 021 863 3201/082 569 8906 www.absoluteaquacultureafrica.com
One stop shop for intensive, cage culture, semi intensive and even extensive fish farm design
African Fish (Pty) Limited Zambia
Adrian Piers – 073 264 4280
Provides Consultancy Services throughout the SADC region on Aquaculture
Alnet (Pty) Ltd
Tel: 021 530 2400
[email protected]
A wide range of products such as trawls, purse-seine, fish farming nets, together with rope and twines and a wide range of hardware
Amanzi Biosecure
Tel: 083 293 0218
[email protected]
A veterinary service to the aquaculture industry
Aquaculture Innovations
Tel: 046 622 3690 Cell: 083 4060 208
[email protected] www.aquaafrica.co.za
Aquaculture Innovations serve as Consultants, conducting Feasibility Studies, Business Planning, Site Selection, System Designs, Production Audits and offering a Mentorship Program whereby existing and new entrants into the industry are supported. The Company offers a free eNewsletter on their website as well as a comprehensive 3-day Aquaculture course.
Aquaculture Institute of South Africa
Tel: 021 430 7026
[email protected]
Newly formed one-stop-shop for aquaculture in South Africa, providing advice on legislation, consultants, training, etc and forming a link between industry and the government
AquaNutro (Pty) Ltd
Tel: 022 482 4575
[email protected]
Manufacturing, design, research and development of scientifically balanced extruded animal feeds for aquaculture, mariculture and pet food industries.
Aquaponics Africa
Tel: 035 772 4586
[email protected] www.aquaponicsafrica.co.za
Aquaponics Africa supplies and installs complete turnkey aquaponic systems specialising in the commercial size units All necessary items are supplied including the fish and vegetable seedlings if needed. Advice and a manual are available.
Aquastel
Tel: 021 808 5838
[email protected] www.sun.ac.za/aquastel
AquaStel is responsible for commercialising the intellectual property emanating from the Division of Aquaculture within the Stellenbosch University.
Catfish Supreme (Pty) Ltd
Cell: 083 298 1311
Operate a catfish (Clarias gariepinus) hatchery with a capacity to produce ±8 000 000 fingerlings per year. The fingerlings are mainly produced for Catfish SA’s members for grow-out and export purposes.
Combustion Technology (Pty) Ltd
Tel: 021 715 3171 Fax: 021 715 6297
[email protected]
Combustion Technology specialises in combustion solutions for all your heat requirements. They offer sales, spares, installation, commissioning, service and full turnkey project management.
Enviro-fish Africa (Pty) Ltd Epol
An independent private consulting company operating under the auspices of Rhodes University www.epol.co.za
Feed and advice for trout. Ask for the Epol Trout Feeding Manual.
Feike Marine Tel: 021 425 6700 Regulatory Law www.feike.co.za and Environment Management Advisors
They undertake impact assessments; attend to the legal permutations associated with obtaining approvals; and manage the start-up phase and reporting to authorities.
“Fish for Africa” & “Aquaculture Africa”
Tel: 011 783 7250
Organised by Exhibitions Africa
Goldmann Engineering CC
Tel: 021 511 3755
[email protected]
For separating, filleting, cut-up lines, skinning, mincing, weighing & grading, production control, labelling, carton forming and sealing
Grenco (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd
Tel: 021 555 9000
[email protected]
Complete industrial refrigeration facilities are designed. They are also active in related specialist markets such as road Transportation Refrigeration (Thermo King).
Healthtech Laboratories (Pty) Ltd
Tel: 011 805 5703
Healthtech Laboratories is a biotechnology company based in South Africa. The company conducts research in bioscience with practical applications in sectors of the agricultural industry with various academic and private institutions.
Highveld Fisheries
Nick Robets – 083 226 1329
Do everything from supplying fish to setting up fish farms.
Invest North West
Tel: 014 594 2570/ 5 www.inw.org.za
Involved with the development of catfish production for export to various Asian countries, including Japan and China.
Kapa African Business Themba Siyolo – Chairman Opportunities (KABO) Tel: 021 421 0158 or Loyiso Mbabane 083 261 7166
KABO seeks investment and business partnership opportunities in the three largest Western Cape Industries: Fruit; Fish and Wine.
Kirloskar
Cell: 082 451 3635 Fax: 011 666 4745
Pumps, valves, engines, gensets and more
Multivac Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd
Tel: 016 341 5911
[email protected]
Machines, tray sealers and chamber machines for quality packaging equipment
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New Way Motor & Diesel Engineering (Pty) Ltd
Tel: 011 680 5632 Tel: 021 510 5132
[email protected]
The authorised distributor for John Deere marine and industrial engines for southern Africa
Olgear
Tel: 021 702 4111
[email protected]
OLGEAR supplies complete ozone based solutions for unsurpassed fresh and marine aquaculture water quality.
Path Plastics Co (Pty) Ltd
Tel: 021 551 9191
[email protected]
Their processes include: expanded polyethylene technology, food grade and HACCP approved raw materials, fully UV resistant materials, fully recyclable materials. Our products include a range of: fish bins, pallets, insulated bulk bins, containers, drums, food- & change room lockers.
Pro-Fish Cape cc
Tel: 021 419 6480
[email protected]
Pro-Fish Cape are manufacturers and suppliers of plastic products for specific uses in the fishing industry.
Sannitree International
Tel: 021 761 2335
[email protected] www.sannitreeinternational.co.za
Bacteria to keep aquaculture ponds and fish tanks clean
SeaArk
Tel: 041 461 9161
An indoor prawn farming operation
Sowerby Engineering (Pty) Ltd
Tel: 011 496 1580 Tel: 021 674 1603
[email protected]
A comprehensive range of Air Blowers / Exhausters / Vacuum Pumps
Three Streams
Tel: 021 876 2485
[email protected] www.three-streams.co.za
A family operation takes quality Rainbow Trout from the hatchery phase through to the Smokehouse.
Wallacedale Fisheries
Cell: 083 357 6765
[email protected]
An intensive Tilapia production unit in the Limpopo Province. Its market is solely the local table market where demand exceeds current supply. Wallacedale also offers consultancy to prospective start-up entrepreneurs.
9. Local business environment
10. International business environment
1. Various factors are currently stimulating the development of aquaculture development in South and Southern Africa, including: • availability of resources: water, land, labour, energy, etc. • limited fisheries resources • increasing market price for fish in Europe causing a vacuum in the local market • marine and agricultural infrastructure • need for diversification and optimisation of resources • access to technologies • international partnerships and collaboration • socio-economic factors • recognition by government of the need to employ people and provide a replacement for the seafood shortfall
Aquaculture is one of the fastest-growing food production systems in the world. Yet Africa, with all its resources, makes up less than 1% of global production, with South Africa contributing only 1% of the continent’s production.
2. Factors that are currently inhibiting development within the industry include: • The lack of a national policy with regard to aquaculture development. In countries where there is active government and regulating authority support (e.g. Chile), aquaculture develops at a rapid rate. • Complicated and fragmented statutory procedures (this too is being improved). • The lack of marketing structures and access to global markets. • Limited access to finance and development capital. • Limited human resource capacity, skills and expertise. 3. Potential funding includes: • A capital subsidy to new aquaculture ventures in the form of the Department of Trade and Industry’s SMEDP (Small and Medium Size Enterprise Development Programme) fund. • Support by provincial government agencies (e.g. Wesgro, East Cape Development Corporation, Gariep Spatial Development Initiative, and Northern Cape Province Department of Economic Affairs and Tourism) to plan, appraise and market aquaculture investments. • Loan finance and equity investment by the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and Development Bank of Southern Africa. • Grant and loan support for small farmer development through the CPPP (Community Public Private Partnership) programme funded by the Department of Trade and Industry. Find the aquaculture notes on the TradeInvestSA website – www. tradeinvestsa.co.za – or call 021 657 6200.
Statistics from the Aquaculture Association of Southern Africa show that the world aquaculture industry contributes 30% to total food fish production and is worth $52-billion. Aquaculture globally has been growing at 8% to 9% a year for the past 20 years. Aquaculture development in a global perspective is driven by: • • • •
market forces: supply and demand diversification of the economic base sustainable utilisation of resources a quest for food security
The commercialisation of aquaculture and the development of associated technologies were initiated mainly by first-world countries in Asia, Europe and North America and have since spread to include a number of developing countries in South-East Asia and South America. The establishment of commercial aquaculture in developing countries is mainly reliant on the utilisation of natural, human and energy resources of the developing country. Since first-world countries provide the technology and capital investment, output is largely directed towards lucrative firstworld markets. This often leads to a situation whereby developing countries obtain a limited share in the domestic aquaculture development/venture, when compared to business/technology partners from First World countries. Developing countries should strive to acquire the technologies, skills and finance that will enable them to take the initiative and responsibility for local aquaculture development, thereby ensuring a more equitable share in the sustainable utilisation of their natural, human and energy resources, and its contribution towards economic growth. Aquatic species indigenous to Africa and South Africa, such as prawn, tilapia, catfish and abalone have developed into aquaculture species of major importance.
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Nepad The fish sector makes vital contributions to food and nutrition security of 200 million Africans and provides income for over 10 million engaged in fish production, processing and trade. Strategic investments are needed to safeguard the future contribution of Africa’s fish sector to poverty alleviation and regional economic development, and capacity needs to be strengthened. For further information check www.fishforall.org. Email inquires can be addressed to
[email protected] or
[email protected]. World Aquaculture Society – www.was.org World Fish Centre – www.worldfishcentre.org Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA) is a roleplayer in fighting against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated fishing (IUU), and has led workshops on the impacts and challenges of IUU for African, Caribbean and Pacific countries. Read more at www.cta.int Tiny fish farms have helped 1,200 poor families hit by AIDS in Malawi to raise their incomes and improve their diets in a scheme being expanded to other African nations. About $90 can enable construction of a small rain-fed pond that can be stocked with juvenile fish costing $10. Once the fish grow and reproduce, the ponds produce food with far less backbreaking work than subsistence farming. The project, run by the Malaysia-based WorldFish Center and targeted at families where some members have died from AIDS or are suffering from the epidemic, has doubled income for 1,200 families in Malawi and improved diets, WorldFish said. WorldFish, a non-profit research group, said it was expanding the scheme to neighbouring Mozambique and Zambia with a goal of reaching 26,000 households. WorldFish is backed by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research and World Vision, an aid group. Farmers are encouraged to use farm waste and crop by-products to feed their fish. In turn, the fish farms are twinned with a drive to get farmers to grow more vegetables, using pond sediment as fertiliser. Adapted from a report Fish Farms Help Families in Africa Hit by AIDS which appeared in an Africa.bizcommunity.com newsletter.
11. Trout farming in Southern Africa Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) are cold water fish and should be kept in water below 50 oC throughout the year and, depending on the strain being farmed, the ideal growth temperature is in the region of 15 – 17 oC. Most trout farms are therefore either in the colder parts or have a year-round supply of cold water. The existing trout farms mostly either use cages or raceways as culture tanks, both requiring large volumes of water. Under local farmed conditions the fish attain a market size of around 1kg in 12 to 14 months. The hot, dry summer conditions in the Western Cape, which is one of the main trout farming area, mean that many farmers struggle to keep their crop going throughout the year as their water supply decreases and warms up. Consequently there is a glut of product on the market as this time of the year, causing the price to drop. The logical solution would be to erect a recirculating system to rear trout in, as this offers temperature control to the optimal growth temperature throughout the year allowing for constant production throughout the year, improving your position when negotiating supply agreements.
The market price for trout varies by area and product, but whole fish to a processor currently earns about R32/kg whereas value added products can be sold for several R100s per kilogram. Rainbow trout has been the most cultured fish species by mass in South Africa for many years with more than 1 000 tons being produced annually. However demand continues to exceed supply such that this species is imported in the country. Source: November 2009 Aquaculture Innovations newsletter. Other newsletters have discussed ornamental fish farming and Tilapia Farming etc. Write to leslie@aquaafrica. co.za
12. Basic requirements and aspects to consider when investigating the potential of farming with fish The free Aquaculture Innovations newsletters are essential reading for the newcomer. Subscribe to them by writing to
[email protected] The basic requirements and aspects that must be considered by any prospective fish farmer when investigating its potential are the following: • • • • • • • •
water availability and supply; suitable site or dam; suitable area for species (warm/cold water); suitable species (demand/market); available feed; availability of fingerlings; legal aspects; willingness to work hard – aquaculture is a 24 / 7 livestock-based form of agriculture, with the associated effort requirement and risks.
As it is primarily a business venture and profits are the main concern, factors such as initial establishment costs of the ponds, the market demand for product and correct management are some of the most important aspects affecting the success of the enterprise. When all the basic requirements have been investigated and you are satisfied that you can and want to continue with the venture then you can investigate the type of systems and methods of production to suit your conditions and interest. Source: SJ Goetze (KZN Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs and Rural Development) The majority of the material for this chapter was supplied by Danie Brink (AASA) and Leslie Ter Morshuizen (Aquaculture Innovations).
Our thanks to Leslie Ter Morshuizen for thorough feedback on the draft chapter
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Livestock Beef See also the Abattoirs and Animal Improvement and Breeders chapters
1. Overview Statistical information can be found on www.daff.gov.za, take the Publications menu option
• Cattle are found throughout the country, but concentrated in the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State and North West. • The national estimated cattle figure has moved between 13.5 and 13.8 million over the past four years, 30 to 40 % in the non-commercial sector. Beef cattle comprise approximately 80 % of the total number of cattle in the country, while dairy cattle make up the remaining 20 %. • South Africa consumes more red meat than it produces. • South Africa produces 17,3% of the total meat produced on the continent of Africa and 1% of global meat production. • Production systems are extensive pastures, feedlotting and subsistence. Approximately 75% of beef produced in South Africa comes from feedlots.
Red Meat Producers’ Organisation (RPO) Tel: 012 348 1933 www.rpo.co.za
economic empowerment within the supply chain of the industry.
In order to achieve these, NERPO had to develop and implement The RPO is recognised as the special programmes. Read about mouthpiece organisation for these programmes on their commercial red meat producers website. and represents the highest authority within the red meat industry in South African Feedlot terms of commercial producers’ Association (SAFA) interests in South Africa. Tel: 012 667 1189 www.safeedlot.co.za National Emergent Red Meat Producers Organisation The SA Feedlot Association is (NERPO) an umbrella organisation that Tel: 012 361 9127 addresses collective interests of www.nerpo.org.za the South African Feedlot industry The principal objectives of NERPO which collectively markets some is to influence policy and legislation 75% of the total beef produced in in favour of the emerging farmers; South Africa. facilitate sound decision making; facilitate access to technical support, The Federation of Red Meat finance, and markets; facilitate Producers is the combination of participation of youth and women the RPO and NERPO, relevant on in the industry; and facilitate black some occasions. All Beef Breeder Societies are listed in the Animal Improvement and Breeders chapter. Below are some examples:
Source: Pieter Taljaard, University of the Free State in a presentation in September 2009 which can be found on www.assocon.com.be
The Brangus Cattle Breeders Tel: 051 444 1144 www.brangus.org.za
SA Braford Tel: 051 448 0603 www.braford.org.za
2. Associations involved
Braunvieh SA Tel: 051 410 0950 www.braunviehsa.co.za
Santa Gertrudis Cattle Breeders Tel: 051 448 0318 www.santagertrudis.co.za
Red Meat Industry Forum Tel: 012 667 1189 www.redmeatsa.co.za The Red Meat Industry Forum of South Africa represents all the nationally representative role-player organisations in the Red Meat industry. Its website is comprehensive, and is for consumers and the industry alike. The website enables the public to access information on news, events, promotions. Also find information on red meat research projects, industry objectives and statistics. Included in its structure are: • The Meat Industry Trust (MIT) – Tel: 012 348 7572 • Red Meat Research Development Trust (RMRDT) • South African Meat Industry Company (SAMIC) – Tel: 012 361 4545 www.samic.co.za • Meat Statutory Measure Services (MSMS) – Tel: 012 348 7572 • Red Meat Levy Admin (RMLA) – Tel: 012 348 7572 • Livestock Welfare Co-ordinating Committee (LWCC) – Tel: 012 807 1367 Member organisations included here are the RPO, NERPO and SAFAS (see to the right). Other member organisations are SHALC (see the leather chapter); SAFLA (see livestock auctions chapter); RMAA, SAMPA, NFMT (see abattoir chapter); SAPPO (see pork chapter); the South African National Consumers Union (SANCU) and the Gauteng Meat traders Employees Union (GMETU).
Nguni Cattle Breeders Society Tel: 051 448 7303 www.ngunicattle.info
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Contact details for and information on all directorates can be found at www.daff. gov.za
Directorate: Animal and Aqua Production Tel: 012 319 7662
[email protected]
Directorate: Food Safety and Quality Assurance Tel: 012 319 7306
[email protected]
4. Training and research There are two formal structures in the red meat industry from which funds are made available for research and development, namely the Red Meat Industry Forum (RMIF) and the Red Meat Research and Development Trust (RMRDT). Read about them at www.redmeatsa.co.za.
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The universities offer degree courses on animal production. Agricultural Colleges offer diplomas. The Provincial Departments of Agriculture work closely with the Agricultural Colleges to offer short courses on animal production. Details of all training providers can be found in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter. Details of AgriSeta-accredited training providers may be found in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter. An example is: Skills for Africa Tel: 012 379 4920 www.skillsafrica.co.za
Some roleplayers: ARC-Livestock Business Division Tel: 012 672 9111 www.arc.agric.za The ARC–LBD feedlot at Irene offers facilities for research to all stakeholders in the feedlot industry. At the feedlot individual and group feed intake and weight gain can be recorded for research purposes. The feedlot also provides opportunities for hands on training in all aspects of feedlotting. The unit has 58 group facilities of up to 15 animals each and a 104 single pen facility for research on feedlot animals. The unit also has access to pastures for field trials. • Ms Annetjie Loubser at 012 672 9153 (training in beef cattle management) • Mr K-J Leeuw at 012 672 9320 (feedlot) • Mr M M Ratsaka at 012 672 9306 (feedlot) • Dr P E Strydom at 012 672 9340 (meat quality, meat processing) Institute for Production Development Tel: 034 341 1270 Sustainable Ranching Tel: 072 594 4626 www.sustainableranching.co.za University of the Free State • Department of Animal, Wildlife and Grassland Sciences Tel: 051 401 2210 • Centre for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Tel: 051 401 2163 • Lengua Agricultural Centre Tel: 051 443 8859
Contact 012 672 9111 – the ARC at Irene – for the following publications: • • • •
Beef Cattle (complete set of Bulletins, available in Afrikaans or English) Feedlot Management CD Beef Management CD Beef Breeding in South Africa
The ARC at Silverton can be reached at 012 842 4000. The following publications are relevant to this chapter: • • • •
Handleiding oor vleisbeesfasiliteite Beef cattle facilities manual Mishanteringshandleiding vir intensiewe diereproduksie-eenhede in SA Manure handling in intensive animal production units, written by HT Breedt, edited and revised by F Cilliers. Copyright. 2009.
Find the following Info Paks (booklets) at www.daff.gov.za (take the “publications” menu option): • • • • •
Beef Cattle: dehorning How to estimate the age of cattle Beef Cattle: Castration Beef Cattle: weaning of calves Cattle: Condition scoring of cattle
On the same website, www.daff.gov.za, find the excellent Agricultural Marketing Extension papers. Paper no. 7 covers Red Meat Marketing. Some farming operations have their own websites. Read about Fortress Bonsmaras, “Driving Bonsmaras to the top” at www.fortresscattle.co.za Visit the websites of roleplayers
6. Companies • See this heading in the Abattoir chapter. • Find the directory of the major beef feedlots at www.safeedlot.co.za AFGRI Animal Feeds Tel: 011 306 4300 www.afgri.co.za
Read about the Aldam Stockman School in the Animal improvement and breeders chapter
Afrivet Training Services Tel: 082 454 0532 www.afrivet.co.za
5. Websites and publications
Agricultural Tours Worldwide Tel: 082 447 7718 www.agritoursandtravel.com
Kejafa Knowledge Works stock a number of livestock publications. Call 014 577 0005 or visit www.kejafa.co.za for more about the following: • The ABC of Beef Production by Schalk J Viljoen • No risk ranching G Judy • Essential Guide to Calving: Giving Your Beef or Dairy Herd a Healthy Start Heather Smith Thomas • Herd Bull Fertility James E Drayson • Getting Started with Beef & Dairy Cattle Heather Smith Thomas • Grass-fed cattle by Julius Ruechel • Natural Cattle Care Pat Coleby • Reproduction and Animal Health C Walters and G Fry • Knowledge Rich Ranching Allan Nation • Raising Beef Cattle Heather Smith Thomas • Vleisbees Produksie The agricultural weeklies, Landbouweekblad and Farmer’s Weekly frequently run stories on beef production. Find archived stories on www.landbou.com and www.farmersweekly.co.za. On the latter find: “Great tasting premiums from grass-fed beef”, “What stands in the way of profitable beef farming” etc.
Tours to the Australian Beef Expo Asgisa Eastern Cape (Pty) Ltd Tel: 043 531 0103 http://asgisa-ec.co.za AXXON Tel: 011 837 7177/6/0
[email protected]
Biorem Biological Products Tel: 053 401 1000-2 Products for calf rearing BJP Supplies Tel: 082 335 3970 Feedmixers for your cattle ComMark Trust Dr Xolile Ngetu – 083 532 4435 NGO ComMark strives to give traditional producers access to mainstream markets. Den Vet Tel: 033 345 1093 www.denvet.co.za
Den Vet consults to the feedlot Suppliers of electronic animal scales industry. These distributors of and ID systems that integrate with veterinary and associated services most local software programmes. also give information talks and presentations in rural areas. They BALIMI BONKE advise farmers, agricultural co-ops Tel: 083 736 2638 etc.
[email protected] Invest North West (INW) Small scale feedlot projects – Tel: 014 594 2570 planning, building, supply of animal www.inw.org.za handling equipment INW runs Beef and goat meat processing projects.
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Keenan Mixer Wagons Tel: 033 330 3135 / 082 335 0506
[email protected]
South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) Tel: 012 428 7911
KK Animal Nutrition Tel: 031 910 5100/29 www.kkan.com
Veterinary remedy residue testing of meat
Meadow Feeds Tel: 011 991 6000 www.meadowfeeds.co.za Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP) Tel: 012 522 1500 www.OBPvaccines.co.za
Trogtek Tel: 057 355 2588 Tel: 082 855 3445 Oasis feed and water cribs Whole Concepts cc Tel: 053 927 4999 www.nosering.co.za
7. Local business environment Statistics and reports can be found at www.daff.gov.za, www.redmeatsa. co.za and other websites linked to the Red Meat Industry Forum i.e. www. samic.co.za, www.rpo.co.za, www.nerpo.co.za and www.safeedlot.co.za “Beef production remained fairly constant over the period 2008-2009 on the back of high feed costs. Lower feed prices in 2009 and 2010 will boost production from 2010 onwards. The expected softening of beef demand due to the economic downturn has not materialized. However, the restaurant and take-away industries have been negatively affected by the tendency of consumers to buy fresh meat for home entertainment. As the economy recovers and interest rates decline, beef consumption is projected to grow at a moderate rate due to projected growth in personal disposable income of the South African population. Prices will consolidate on the early gains in 2009 and are projected to increase from 2010 onwards”. Source: the BFAP Baseline 2009. Find this at www.bfap.co.za
The popular carcase competition rewards farmers who produce animals that the market wants. Find out more from NERPO, SAMIC or the RPO. Commercial farmers, represented by the Red Meat Producers’ Organisation (RPO) have demonstrated their dedication to assist emerging farmers by making mentors available to help them in the transformation process to become commercial farmers. The Kanhym Feedlot in Mpumalanga is one example of a commercial enterprise that has transformed into a modern, BEE compliant company.
8. International business environment Order the Beef Report 2009 at www.agribenchmark.org. An extract is available on the website to whet your appetite … www.cattlenetwork.com, “the source for cattle news”, reports that the top beef producing countries are (in order): the US, Brazil, the EU, China, Argentina, India, Mexico, Australia, Russian Federation and Canada. Also find international news and articles here: • www.meatinternational.com – “industry information from gate to plate” • www.BEEFmagazine.com – US magazine (and website) • www.nbcec.org – the US National Beef Cattle Evaluation Consortium website
9. New farmer information Find NERPO’S contact information under heading 2.
10. Beef cattle: weaning of calves It is important to decide when and by what means to wean beef calves, because it influences the weaning mass of calves as well as the condition of the cows, and indirectly their conception rates. Timing: • The major priority in beef production is to produce as many calves as possible. The main objective of weaning is therefore to enable a cow to calve every year by allowing her to regain condition after weaning. • Calves are ideally weaned when they are 7 to 8 months old. • The right time to wean a calf depends on the condition of the cow and not the age of the calf. • Calves should be weaned before the condition score of the cow falls below 2,5 if adequate winter feed is available and the cows maintain their condition. The calves should preferably be weaned before the cows condition score falls below 3,0. • During years of drought and poor feed supply, calves should be weaned early (about 6 months), to allow the cow to recover before the onset of winter. • It is important that the cow should recover and that the secretory tissue be restored before the next calf is born. • In the eastern parts of the country calves born during spring can be weaned early in May at the age of about 7 to 8 months. • In the more western parts calves can be weaned late in May or early June at the age of about 7 to 8 months as the breeding season tends to be later in these areas.
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Early weaning: • This practice should only be considered during times of severe drought or feed shortages. • Calves weaned at a relatively young age (less than 5 months) experience severe setbacks. • If the condition of the cow deteriorates considerably before the planned weaning time, the producer must decide whether to - wean early and supply concentrate feeding to the calf - provide a roughage supplement to the cows that are still suckling their calves. • This decision will depend on the availability and cost of feed. Generally, the feed (mainly concentrates) costs to rear early weaned calves are relatively high. Therefore, feeding concentrates to calves should only be considered during adverse conditions. Methods of weaning: Circumstances on the farm determine the method of weaning. following methods can be used:
The
• Keep the calves in a kraal or well-fenced camp and remove the cows to a distant camp, preferably out of earshot of the calves. • Remove the cows temporarily from a camp and in their absence move the calves to another distant camp. Cows tend to look for their calves in the camp in which they were last seen and this method should prevent the cows from breaking out of the camp. • Exchange calves from two different herds. The calves will then have the company of cows. Some cross suckling is, however, likely to occur. • Separate the cows and calves by a strong, close-strand wire fence. This method can reduce weaning stress. • Nose plates, commercially available or homemade, can be fitted to calves for 7 to 14 days. These prevent suckling, even if cows and calves remain together throughout the weaning period. When the nose plates are removed the cows and calves are separated, but with relatively little stress. General: • Perform castration, dehorning and branding when calves are 2 to 3 months old, not immediately before weaning. This will ensure that the stress associated with these operations does not add to that of weaning. • A few dry cows can be kept with the weaners to calm them. • Provide sufficient good-quality roughage, water and shade in the weaning camps. • To prevent excessive walking and trampling the camps should not be too large. • The weaning process could last 7 to 14 days, depending on the age at which the calves are weaned as well as the breed of the cow.
The Case for NoseRings NoseRing is an agricultural product used for stress-free weaning of livestock – without having to separate the young animal from its mother. This results in weight gains during weaning for both mother and young. This means healthier, more robust livestock, no damage to fencing and kraals, higher conception rates – and happier farmers! If traceability becomes a requirement, buyers of weaners, whether for feedlotting or grazing, would do well to insist that producers wean with NoseRings as a method that is animal friendly, and that can significantly increase production and the potential for profit. Feedlotters too benefit from purchasing weaners that were weaned using low-stress weaning methods. For more information visit www.nosering.co.za
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2. Associations involved
Livestock Beekeeping 1. Overview A devastating disease of bee colonies is threatening the South African beekeeping industry. American Foulbrood (AFB) is an extremely serious bacterial disease of honeybee brood, and results in the death of honeybee larvae and, in serious cases, the collapse and death of the entire honeybee colony. The AFB outbreak is of national importance, and is considered a severe risk to the beekeeping industry and to crop commodities such as the deciduous fruit industry which relies on honeybees for pollination. Find updates and measures to contain AFB on www.sabio.org.za.
South African Bee-Industry Organisation (SABIO) Tel: 012 356 9832 www.sabio.org.za 400 registered beekeepers are members of SABIO. Small farmers are encouraged to register, because this enables SABIO to: • release more accurate statistics; • to keep the sector informed and prepared for any potential future crises; • to assist you in applications for funding. Regional/Provincial Associations: • Eastern Highveld Beekeepers’ Association (Eastern Gauteng) Tel: 011 362 2904 • Free State Beekeepers’ Association Tel: 051 433 4663 • KwaZulu-Natal Beekeepers’ Association Tel: 033 239 5292 • Mpumalanga Beekeepers’ Association Tel: 013 750 0723/ 082 608 2008 • Northern Cape Bee Group Tel: 053 441 2341 • Northern Transvaal Beekeepers’ Association (Pretoria) Tel: 083 259 4466 • Southerns Beekeeping Association (Gauteng Province and country districts) Tel: 083 262 2047 www.beekeepers.co.za • Southern Cape Bee Industries Association Tel: 044 871 1935/ • Western Cape Bee Industry Association Tel: 021 971 1022
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Commercial pollination of apples
Development projects using honeybees
• Honeybee products include: honey, bee-collected pollen, royal jelly, wax, and health supplements. • Honey and wax go beyond the food market and are used in large quantities in the manufacture of beauty products, candles, lipstick, medicine, herbal tea and chewing gum. • Honey is a natural anti-oxidant and can, for example, be used to extend the shelf life of meat. • Other products that can be exploited are pollen, an extremely pure form of protein, propolis (a natural antiseptic), royal jelly (a health and cosmetic product) and bee venom (used medically in the desensitising of allergic people). • Many beekeepers sell their products in bulk to honey packers, or they market their products themselves. Smaller operators often sell from the home, in roadside stalls or to local cafés. • Beekeeping works on economies of scale: the more hives you have, the more profitable your enterprise will be. • The large bee farmers only farm with bees. The smaller ones usually diversify. • Bees are the most important pollinators of agricultural crops, being responsible for about one in every three mouthfuls of food we eat each day. Source: Mike Allsopp, Dr Connal Eardley (ARC – PPRI)
Honeybees are also of value in South Africa as vehicles of Empowerment and Rural Development. Small-scale beekeeping has great potential as a means of entrepreneurial development and economic empowerment, particularly among rural communities and especially for women. The greatest potential for beekeeping development rests in the gum plantations managed by commercial companies such as SAPPI and MONDI, which are presently underutilised for beekeeping and honey production. Collaboration and partnerships between these companies, government and local communities could result in economic development for a large number of communities and individuals in South Africa.
Find the Agricultural Pests Act (Act No.36 of 1983) and control measures relating to honeybees on websites like www.beekeeping.co.za and www. beekeeping.co.za Legislation divides South Africa into a Cape beekeeping region and a Scutellata (African Honeybee) beekeeping region, along the “Siegfried Line”, an estimate of the traditional boundary between the races. Honeybees are not allowed to be moved across the line in either direction except under permit issued by DAFF.
The “Siegfried Line” Directorate: Plant Health Tel: 012 319 6529
[email protected]
Black Cape bees and yellow African bees. Directorate Food Safety & Quality Assurance Tel: 012 319 7306
[email protected]
Directorate: Agricultural Products Directorate: International Trade Inspection Services (APIS) Tel: 012 319 8451 Tel: 012 319 6100 Directorate: Animal Production Tel: 012 319 7424
4. Training and research The Agricultural Colleges, working with Provincial Departments of Agriculture run courses in beekeeping. Find details of Cedara and the other Colleges in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter.
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Other training is done by: • • • • • •
ARC-PPRI. Tel: 012 808 8000 or 021 887 4690 Honeywood Farm Tel: 028 722 1823 Joe Hugill at Saronda Valley Tel: 011 953 4883 Robert Post Tel: 021 971 1022 SABIO Tel: 012 807 7433 SM McGladdery Tel/fax: 033 342 4990
ARC – Plant Protection Research Institute (PPRI) Tel: 021 887 4690 •
[email protected] – South Africa’s foremost honeybee researcher •
[email protected] – the PPRI bacteriologist doing laboratory analyses •
[email protected] – bee identifications (taxonomist). Dr Eardley is also vice-chair of the International Commission on Plant Bee Relations (ICPBR) •
[email protected] – honeybee development projects Find the quick link to the African Pollinator Initiative at www.arc.agric.za
Bees are the most important group of pollinators (other pollinators include flies, beetles, butterflies, moths, lacewings, birds, rodents and bats, or by wind or water). Within the scope of present research the links between bee systematics and the ecological role of bees as pollinators, their importance in agriculture, and the presence of other pollinators, are recognised. Therefore participation in ecological, pollination, conservation and international policy development projects are important activities. The bee collection of the SA National Collection of Insects comprises over 15 000 database records. Material belonging to genera that have been revised are identified. Material is made available to researchers interested in studying Afrotropical bees and aculeate wasps. Bees, in general, are very sensitive to disturbance of their habitat, and some land use changes lead directly to their local extinctions. Thus bee biodiversity conservation has become a global concern. Taxonomy is essential for proper bee conservation and management. Contact: Dr Connal Eardley. E-mail:
[email protected] Look for the “Research & Development” option at www.arc.agric.za University of the Free State Department Zoology & Entomology Tel: 051 401 2566
[email protected] University of Pretoria Tel: 012 420 3233
Stellenbosch University Tel: 021 808 3160 International Bee Research Association www.ibra.org.uk
Rhodes University Tel: 046 603 8528
5. Websites and publications • Visit websites listed elsewhere in this chapter e.g. www.sabio.org.za, www.beekeepers.co.za etc. • Beekeeping in South Africa (The “Blue Book”). 3rd edition. Provides information and instruction, caters for hobbyists, beginners and professionals. Call 021 887 4690, email
[email protected] or visit www.arc.agric.za. • From Beekeeping – a practical guide for Southern Africa by D Marchand & J Marchand-Mayne. • Allsopp, MH 2005 Commercial pollination of deciduous fruit - a pamphlet, obtainable from the Deciduous Fruit Producers’ Trust at telephone 021 882 8470. • The South African Bee Journal (SABJ). Contact SABIO for details. • Find the publications available on www.apiculture.co.za
• Some associations (e.g. Southerns Beekeeping Association) have their own newsletters. Find contact details for the different associations under heading 2. • Find the two Info Paks on bees at www.daff.gov.za – take the Publications menu option. The first is Basic Beekeeping. The second is entitled Bee: Capensis bee problem. • Find the “Where to buy Beekeeping books” option on www.satweb. co.za/bees • Kejafa Knowledge Works has publications on beekeeping. Visit www. kejafa.co.za or call 014 577 0005. • Find the publications, some available as a free download, at www. biobees.com. The Barefoot Beekeeper, How to Build a Top Bar Hive and other titles. • The British Beekeepers’ Association – www.britishbee.org.uk • www.friendsofthebees.org – “bee conservation and natural beekeeping” • www.beesabroad.org.uk – Bees Abraod is a UK-registered charity which support beekeeping projects in developing countries. Read about one such project at www.berudep.org, the Belo Rural Development Project in Cameroon. • Honey D Botha. ISSN: 0014-8482. Looks at the practice of apiculture in South Africa and the cultivation of colonies of honeybees for honey and beeswax production. • The Hive Bee Wilson John Murray IBSN 0 7195 65987 • Find Value-added products from beekeeping on the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations Rome website. This volume is intended to improve the possibilities for diversification in beekeeping activities.
6. Companies involved • ARC-IAE Tel: 012 842 4000. A solar wax extractor for small-scale beekeeping entrepreneurs • Aalcapri Apiaries Tel: 011 825 4764 • Apitherapy Tel: 053 833 1834 www.apitherapy.co.za • Beequipment SA Tel: 011 476 5626 www.beequip.co.za • BioAfrica Tel: 082 534 4807 www.bioafrica.co.za • Clover Apiaries Tel: 012 343 6344 • Comb Honey Apiaries Tel: 021 987 0667 www.comb-honey-apiaries. co.za • Douglas Bee Farms Tel: 053 298 1101 • Fleures Tel: 012 362 6991 Fax: 021 362 6992 Honey buyers • Hasslers Honey Farm Tel: 011 849 1990 • Highveld Honey Farms Tel: 011 849 1990 / 083 229 4467
[email protected] • Honey Badger Tel: 012 365 1015 • Honeybee Foundation & Products Tel: 021 511 4567 honeybee@global. co.za, www.beekeeping.com/honeybee-africa • Honeysuckle Tel: 011 662 1492 www.honeysucklehoney.com • Honeywood Farm Tel/fax: 028 722 1823 www.honeywoodfarm.co.za • Makana Meadery Tel: 046 636 1227 • Necta Honey Farm Tel: 021 981 4702 Fax: 011 698 3274 • Nu-Life Beekeepers Tel: 039 433 1140 / 082 578 0827 • Peel’s Honey Tel: 033 330 3762 • The Propolis People Tel: 053 831 2705 www.thepropolispeople.co.za • Raw Honey Tel: 083 653 6290 www.rawhoney.biz • Rivendale Apiculture www.apiculture.co.za • Rupert’s Honey Tel: 012 650 0064 www.rupertshoney.co.za • Slabber Apiculture Tel: 082 852 4392 www.pollination.co.za • SM McGladdery Tel/fax: 033 342 4990 www.satweb.co.za/bees • Schnetler (Specialised products) Tel: 011 782 8996 / 082 927 9629.
7. Local business environment American foulbrood (AFB) is an extremely serious bacterial disease of honeybee brood, caused by the bacterium Paenibacillus larvae. It results in the death of honeybee larvae and, in serious cases, the collapse and death of the honeybee colony. AFB is found almost world-wide, but has previously not been reported in sub-Saharan Africa. AFB was recently found in South Africa for the first time during an ARC survey for AFB, funded by the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.
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The origin of the AFB in South Africa is unknown, but is likely to be as a result of non-irradiated honey being brought into the country. Other possible avenues for entry are imported beeswax, imported bee-food, or ship-borne honeybee swarms. For many years, South Africa has insisted on the compulsory irradiation of all bee products entering the country, specifically to prevent the entry of AFB.
Projects Read about the Beekeeping for Poverty Relief Programme (BPRP) on the ARC website, www.arc.agric.za
If the disease is not contained and eradicated, it will almost certainly spread throughout South Africa, and eventually to neighbouring countries and throughout sub-Saharan Africa.
Vhembe’s flagship beekeepers are taking a big step towards restoring their position as one of the main emerging honey producers in the country. Backed by a R2-million grant from the European Union (EU) through the Limpopo Local Economic Development (LED) Programme, they are planning to become bulk honey suppliers in the Limpopo Province. They are reinventing themselves and plan to install and share specialized processing equipment, deliver their produce in consumer friendly packs, and promote their products. They believe their actions will increase the competitiveness of Limpopo’s honey industry by ensuring direct access to local markets.
Beekeepers are strongly urged to adopt extreme precautionary measures to prevent the disease spreading further, and to prevent their apiaries from contracting the disease. This applies to all beekeepers in South Africa, but particularly those in the Western Cape. The suggested measures are as follows:
The Limpopo LED Programme grant is a contribution towards the costs involved in changes to the project’s processing centre house, new processing equipment to be shared by the beekeepers, and the transportation of their honey. The farmers own the orchards surrounding the area, which will make it easier to accommodate their beehives.
• Beekeepers should endeavour to keep all apiaries isolated from each other; that is, do not move honeybee colonies from apiary to apiary. • Beekeepers should not place their colonies in the near proximity of colonies belonging to other beekeepers. • Do not move equipment (brood boxes, supers, frames) from apiary to apiary, or from colony to colony. • Sterilise all beekeeping equipment (hive tools, gloves) with alcohol or boiling water after use, so as not to spread the infection from apiary to apiary or from colony to colony. • Do not put out wet supers for bees to feed from. • Do not feed colonies with anything containing honey or pollen. • Keep robbing to an absolute minimum, and hence, keep beekeeping management to a minimum.
South Africa imports honey because it does not produce sufficient honey to meet local demand. Shortages of honey on international markets are causing prices to rise. The increasing demand for honey locally makes the project more viable, and the aim is to supply the local markets at a reasonable price.
AFB is a notifiable disease in almost all countries, including South Africa. Clinical symptoms in colonies are diseased larvae and pupae, which collapse into a mucus-like mass at the base of a cell, and then dry into a hard, black scale. The colony has a sickly, ‘old boots’ smell.
Contact: Mike Allsopp at
[email protected]
Since consumers prefer to purchase in smaller quantities, the project also aims to meet the demand for smaller, high-value packs of honey. The project will focus on selling to the local markets until they can become their own wholesalers. This will ensure higher returns to the farm, and will increase the market share, turnover and profitability, as well as sustainability and pricing. Contact: Tebogo Mailula at
[email protected] Tips for Newcomers to the Beekeeping Industry
8. New farmer information Apiculture (bee-farming) is ideal for women, young people and the disabled, people who also have other responsibilities such as housework, school or are physically challenged. When husbands migrate to cities to seek employment, women stay behind with all the responsibilities. Beekeeping offers an opportunity to earn an income while tending to the rest of her agricultural and household responsibilities. It is light labour and not mechanised. It is not suitable for the lazy though. When honeybees have been established in beehives, the bees will produce the honey and other hive products. The farmers’ job is to pay attention to their bees and manage their hives effectively. This free workforce will work for the farmers as long as there are nectar-producing plants in the area. The future of this programme is dependent on the South African honey consumer market knowing about this project and for the beekeepers to be innovative in exploiting the spin-offs from hive products. Honeybees are found all over South Africa and are a free and accessible resource. People do not have to own land but only need permission to place their hives in a safe place. If there are adequate bee plants in an area to allow bees to produce surplus nectar a beekeeping operation could be started.
• Bee colonies have to be protected from the wind. If no natural windbreak is available, erect a temporary wind shelter. • Colonies should be placed in sunny locations and preferably where the sun shines on the entrances. • Hives should be kept off the ground with old tyres or concrete blocks as dampness and the lack of ventilation could stress the bees. • Ensure uncontaminated water is close to the hive. • Introduce new bees at certain times of the year – the new blood ensures a healthier and stronger colony, as does the continuous splitting of the colonies. • On the Highveld, in the winter, when there is not enough forage, the bees are transported – up to 350 hives at a time, in trucks, to more fertile areas. • The ability of bees to navigate is centred around the sun and as dusk approaches, they return home – that is why they are transported at night. • Apart from selling honey and beeswas, one the most profitable aspects of beekeeping is providing pollination service to farmers. For further information on beehives, safety and processing equipment or for advice, contact SABIO. Source: Brett Falconer, Highveld Honey Farms
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9. International business environment
Livestock
Visit the International Bee Research Association pages at www.ibra. org.uk • There is a worldwide demand for honey and wax. The major exporters of honey are: China, Argentina, Australasia, and the USA. The major importers are Europe, the USA and the Middle East. Beeswax is mainly exported from Africa to Europe. • Most countries have strict regulations regarding the importation of honeybee products and these should be obtained from the local trade commissions. Europe, the USA and Canada require further tests against residues of pesticides in honey. • There are strict regulations regarding importation of beeswax and honey in order to keep infectious diseases out of the country. All imported honey and bee products need to be irradiated for disease control purposes, and are required to display the radurised sign on these products. • Importers can bring honey in more cheaply even with the transport costs. The picture is changing because local producers have increased production. • The supply and demand, foreign exchange rates, and quality of the product all play important roles in determining the world trade prices of all honeybee products. Sources for the chapter: Mike Allsopp (ARC-PPRI); Brett Falconer. Notes on American Foulbrood were taken from different ARC-PPRI newsletters, mostly from edition 79 of 2009 (find these newsletters on www.arc.agric.za) Our thanks to Hans Blokker and the South African Bee-Industry Organisation (SABIO), Brett Falconer (Highveld Honey Farms), Connal Eardley (ARCPPRI), Elize Lundall (ARC-PPRI) and Tom Cain (Southerns Beekeeping Association) for feedback on the draft chapter.
Dairy Find also the Dairy chapter in the Agro-processing section
1. Overview • South Africa’s dairy industry compares favourably with the world’s top dairy industries in farming methods and processing of dairy products. • Dairy farming occurs throughout South Africa with the highest concentration being in the Eastern Free State, the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, the Eastern and Western Cape, and the southern parts of Mpumalanga. • Holstein Friesians and Jerseys are the predominant breeds, followed by Ayrshires, Guernseys and SA Dairy Swiss. • The number of milk producers in South Africa in October 2009 was approximately 3 330. Around 660 processors and distributors of milk and milk products process milk from the farmers and sell it to consumers nationwide. • Internationally the South African farmer still produces milk at one of the lowest prices in the world. Dairy farming is not subsidised by government and South Africa is a net importer of milk and milk productsfor the past three years. • Africa is responsible for only 1% of the world’s dairy output, and half of that comes from South Africa. Below, courtesy of the MPO, is a map giving the distribution of milk production.
2. Associations involved Milk SA Tel: 012 460 7312 www.milksa.co.za Milk SA represents the primary and secondary industries. More than 80% of all milk produced and processed in South Africa is represented by Milk SA. Milk Producers’ Organisation (MPO) Tel: 012 843 5600 www.dairyconnect.co.za The MPO is a voluntary, democratic organisation which act as the mouthpiece for commercial and emerging dairy farmers (approximately 84% of dairy farmers belong to the MPO). It is established as a non-profit company, in terms of section 21 of the Company Act.
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MPOSA Holdings was established in 2001 as the holding company for the MPO and its affiliates. MPOSA has seven independent affiliates that it supervises. They are: • MPO – Milk Producers’ Organisation. • Agri Inspec – The country’s most important forensic monitoring business in the agricultural sector. Initially it focused on stopping the illegal import of dairy products, but since 1998 it has benefited other business commodities including poultry, red meat, plant oils and sugar with its services. • AgriBonus – A benefits programme for South African farmers. • Agri Connect – The MPO’s publication and media company which informs its members and other interested parties about developments in the milk industry, as well as the broader agricultural industry. • Agri Travel & Tours – A travel bureau which specialize in the agriculture. Agri Travel & Tours can organise agricultural tours to any possible country in the world and also bring tours to South Africa. • The /MPO Institute for Dairy Technology – Provides new, relevant information to the farmer about the latest technology in the dairy industry. Its services are also available to other livestock industries. • Cendel – The Centre for Producer Development is responsible for the organising of courses for dairy farmers, as well as the management of the mentorship programme of the MPO. The organisation also has a weekly radio programme on RSG: Landbou Suiwelsake, on Tuesdays at 12h30, which informs the dairy farmer of the latest developments in the dairy industry. A similar programme is run on Radio Pretoria on Thursdays at 13h00. The MPO also manages the All Africa Dairy Expo on an annual basis and the Large Herds Conference on a bi-annual basis.
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Find information on the different directorates under the Divisions menu option at www.daff.gov.za.
Animal Production Tel: 012 319 7662
Competition Commission Tel: 012 394 3332 www.compcom.co.za
Agricultural Product Inspection Services (APIS) International Trade Tel: 012 319 6100 Administration Commission (Itac) Grootfontein Agricultural Tel: 012 394 3590 Development Institute www.itac.org.za Tel: 049 842 1113 Itac’s core business is to create Food Safety and Quality an enabling environment for Assurance fair trade through customs tariff Tel: 012 319 7306 investigations, trade remedies and import and export control. Other National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) Department of Health Tel: 012 341 1115 Tel: 012 312 0985 www.namc.co.za www.doh.gov.za
4. Training and research MPO Institute for Dairy Technology and Centre for Producer Development (CenDel) Tel: 012 843 5600
The aim here is “to keep farmers farming, keeping the farmer on his farm, and putting him in the position to make money”. Goals: • supplying relevant and new information as well as technology to the milk industry; • promoting milk quality; • to strengthen the negotiating power of the dairy industry and the milk producer; • promoting the status and perceptions of all role players in the dairy industry; • ensuring maximum profitability for the milk farmers; • co-ordinate the relevant research. Target Market • commercial and emerging farmers • veterinarians, nutritionists etc. • secondary dairy industry • farm labourers • government and parastatal institutions Milk SA Training and Development Tel: 012 460 7312 www.dairysa.co.za This group facilitates the entire training process, supplies the learning material, and assesses the learners’ competence. They have a booklet on their courses which gives a list of their unit standards and learnerships. ARC-Livestock Business Division (Irene) Annetjie Loubser Tel: 012 672 9153/ 44 Ms S Erasmus at 012 672 9188 www.arc.agric.za The dairy unit also offers facilities for research to all stakeholders in the dairy industry. Individual feed intake and milk production can be recorded for research purposes. The dairy unit also provides opportunities for hands -on training in all aspects of dairy farming. A three-day course which deals with Dairy Management is run at Irene. To find out about the Master Dairyman Competition, contact Reinder Groenveld at 012 672 9097 or
[email protected] Fort Hare Dairy Trust (FHDT) Jeff Every – 041 379 4800 Leonard Mavhungu – 082 795 7455 FHDT is a partnership between white farmers from the Tsitsikamma and Underberg areas – through their company Amadlelo Agri – and the University of Fort Hare. It provides hands-on training to black farmers from around the country. Four Lakes Tel: 021 557 0606 www.fourlakes.co.za Suppliers of quality animal health and dairy herd management products The Provincial Departments of Agriculture work closely with the Agricultural Colleges to present short courses on Dairy Production, often in an African language e.g. the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Environment and Cedara offer a small-scale dairying course in Zulu, Dairy Production (basic and advanced) and Dairy Processing. Glen College offers dairy management courses. Find contact details for all Agricultural Colleges in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter.
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Stellenbosch University Department: Food Science Tel: 021 808 3578
[email protected]
University of KwaZulu-Natal School of Agricultural Sciences and Agribusiness Tel: 033 260 5808
University of Fort Hare Tel: 040 602 2126
[email protected]
Contact Animal and Poultry Science at
[email protected]
University of the Free State Department of Animal, Wildlife and Grassland Sciences Tel: 051 401 2210 Centre for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Tel: 051 401 2163 Department of Microbial, Biochemical and Food Biotechnology Tel: 051 401 2396
University of Pretoria Department of Animal and Wildlife Sciences Tel: 012 420 3271 South African Institute for Agricultural Extension Tel: 012 420 3247 Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology Tel: 012 420 4622
5. Websites and publications The Dairy Mail is a monthly publication for dairy farmers. It provides “indepth research, comprehensive industry news, and excellent technical and management information”. Call 012 843 5600 or visit www.dairyconnect. co.za. Also find the “AgriBooks” menu option on this website. Publications include Vaccines and immunisation of farm animals (Drs Jan du Preez and Faffa Malan), and Udder health (Dr Inge-Marié Petzer). Contact the ARC-Irene at 012 672 9111 for the following publications: • Dairy cattle feeding and management (complete set of Bulletins, available in Afrikaans or English); • Dairy herd improvement in South Africa Call 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for the following publications, available from the ARC in Silverton: • • • • •
Handleiding oor melkbeesfasiliteite Dairy cattle facilities manual Lae-koste melkverkoeling Small-scale milking shed Kleinskaalse melkstal
Manure handling in intensive animal production units, written by HT Breedt, edited and revised by F Cilliers, is also available from the ARC in Silverton. In its treatment of dairy cattle, this invaluable book looks at the dairy building, housing facilities and the design of flushing systems for dairy housing. Kejafa Knowledge Works has numerous livestock publications including Getting Started with Beef and Dairy Cattle, Dairy Cattle Manual and Natural Cattle Care. Visit www.kejafa.co.za or call 014 577 0005. Under the General Reports option (take “Publications” at www.daff.gov. za), find the excellent Agricultural Marketing Extension. Training Paper No. 6 covers dairy marketing. Under the Info Paks option on the same website find Guidelines for handmilking procedures and Rules for clean handmilking. The International Dairy Federation (IDF) has produced several publications aimed at improving environmental performance. Find IDF bulletin 436/2009 Environmental / Ecological Impact of the Dairy Sector at its website, www. fil-idf.org. The secretary of the South African National Committee of the IDF is Edu Roux who can be contacted at 012 843 5701. South Africa will host the IDF’s 2012 World Dairy Summit.
• Lacto Data provides the latest statistics on the dairy industry, including breakdowns of imports and exports. Find it on www.dairyconnect. co.za. • www.milkismilk.com – The Centre for Global Food Issue’s webpage to help dairy producers learn about and share opinions regarding the challenges of dairy production. • www.dairyexpo.co.za – the “showcase of the dairy industry in the SADC region”. • www.fil-idf.org, website of the International Dairy Federation • Find the current world production, market and trade reports at www. fas.usda.gov/currwmt.asp the Foreign Agricultural Service arm of the US Department of Agriculture.
6. Companies involved See also the chapter in the Agro-processing section.
Agri Services Tel: 033 342 2887 Alles-In-Een Tel: 018 596 1410 Akshan Consulting Tel: 011 803 7139 / 084 777 4472 www.ashkan.co.za Dairy hygiene Asgisa Eastern Cape Tel: 043 735 1673 http://asgisa-ec.co.za AXXON/MILKING Tel: 011 837 7177/6/0 Fax: 011 837 3100
[email protected]
Clover Tel: 011 471 1400 www.clover.co.za Coastal Milking Equipment (CME) Tel: 044 878 0553 Dairy Care Tel: 017 773 1209 Delaval Tel: 031 792 9800 www.delaval.com For all products required by farmers to run a dairy operation Den Vet Tel: 033 345 1093 www.denvet.co.za
Install and supply large and small milking parlours plus spares “Solving your animal health problems”. Various products for BALIMI BONKE the dairy e.g. milk liners, Kenotest, Tel: 083 736 2638 Denvet Dairy Wipes. Find the Dairy
[email protected] Parlour check list and notes on mineral deficiency on the website. Supply and refurbish milking parlours Guth SA Tel: 041 373 5448 Bayer Animal Health www.guth.co.za Tel: 011 921 5723 Kwikelec Bio-Fly (Pty) Ltd Tel: 041 365 7394 Tel: 083 601 7221 www.biofly.co.za Installation of dairy farm (including processing) equipment Bio-insectaries SA (BISA) Tel: 042 286 0978 Lactolab www.bioinsectsa.com Tel: 012 665 5655 www.lactolab.co.za Biogas Power Tel: 086 124 6427 Lactolab’s main focus is the analyses www.biogaspower.co.za of raw milk for milk buyers as well as for milk recording purposes. Central Melk Tel: 013 246 1094 Mbisi www.centralmilk.com Tel: 012 667 1122
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Melkboer Dienste Tel: 011 949 1162
Overberg Melkery Toerusting Tel: 028 514 2402
Melkor Tel: 017 712 1081
Robust Rubber Suppliers Tel: 011 363 1348
Midlands Milk Tel: 082 872 8681 www.midlandsmilk.co.za
Heavy-duty anti-slip matting
Milk-Pro Tel: 011 566 2022 www.milk-pro.com Nkateko Productions Tel: 021 853 7007 / 082 716 9548 www.nkateko.com NIQL Tel: 012 672 9111
Southern African Milk Cooperative Ltd (SAMILCO) Tel: 021 886 4730 www.samelko.co.za Streamline Milking Services Tel: 022 482 1568 Strydom Melkmasjiene Tel: 051 421 1007
Tammac Consultants Tel: 039 834 1405 Northfield Engineering (Pty) Ltd www.tammac.co.za Tel: 041 484 3211 Taurus Olmex Agriculture Tel: 012 666 1122 Duncan Clements – 082 318 8865 www.olmex.co.za Total Pipeline Industries Tel: 028 722 1371 Onderstepoort Biological www.dairymaster.com Products (OBP) Tel: 012 522 1500 Tube & Product Distributors www.obpvaccines.co.za Tel: 039 727 2041
7. Local business environment Lacto Data, a publication that is given out twice a year, provides the latest statistics on the dairy industry. The publication can be found on www. dairyconnect.co.za Dairy producers have a number of marketing opportunities: • Sell direct to consumers. Producers can build a sound relationship with local customers. • Sell to a retailer e.g. a small café or supermarket • Sell to a processor. There are some 250 of these, and through technology like www.olmex.co.za you should be able to sell to any of them. • Value adding through processing (see the dairy chapter in the last section of this directory). • Value adding through packaging. Put milk or other product in attractive and functional packaging. The profitability of milk producers has decreased radically over the past year, owing to continued input cost increases and the lowering of farmgate prices. Advice to dairy farmers has included: • to form buying groups and purchase grain directly from grain producers; • to join forces when they sell their products to put them in a better bargaining position. Inquire from the MPO about the manual to help farmers with group forming, developed by the University of the Free State. The MPO, in conjunction with the National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC), was to put out a study to further identify possible costsaving opportunities. It is also in the process of establishing an export advisory service to assist potential exporters of dairy products. Find out about the milk trading platform on which dairy producers and milk buyers are able to trade milk on the internet. Trading caters mainly for six to twelve month contracts, although there is provision for shorter term and once-off transactions. Contact Duncan Clements at 082 318 8865, or visit www.olmex.co.za
8. Animal comfort makes good milk • Cows that are comfortable will have less stress, eat more, have less health problems, and be injured less. Good cow comfort makes milk. • Cows should be eating, drinking, milking, or lying down. • If cubicle comfort is a problem, cows stand more. This could increase laminitis. Cows should get up in cubicles as they would out on a pasture and with the same comfort. Bedding is needed to facilitate cow movement and maintain cleanliness. • Cows should eat comfortably. Overcrowding and slippery floors cause slug feeding. • Check important measurements like holding area space, floor slopes and finishing of concrete surfaces. • Control the flies on your farm. • Cows need to be psychologically comfortable and unstressed. Source: Rykie Visser
9. A note on fly-control It is common knowledge that flies can reduce feed intake on dairy farms where proper fly control is not in place. A drop in milk production up to 35% is possible when flies are not controlled. They also spread diseases like mastitis from cow to cow. It pays to invest in a yearly fly control program! Avoid the build up of manure and bedding material, and fix water troughs that leak water. This will be ideal breed areas for the flies to multiply in their millions. Source: Rykie Visser
Solutions for flies: Bio-Fly (Pty) Ltd Cell: 083 601 7221
[email protected] www.biofly.co.za
Bio-insectaries SA (BISA) Tel: 042 286 0978 / 083 270 4866
[email protected] www.bioinsectsa.com
10. Milk Recording Milk recording is of utmost importance not only to the individual farmer, but also to the entire dairy industry. • Milk recording provides the farmer with up-to date information on milk yield and milk composition (fat and protein %, lactose, Urea and somatic cell counts). This information provides the basis for informed herd management and profitability. • It increases herd profitability through maximising genetic improvement. • It helps the farmer maintain low herd somatic cell count by monitoring individual cow SCC and taking appropriate action in time. • It creates the possibility of corrective pairing. • Producers who join the scheme get an increase in the value of their animals (buyers are inclined to pay more for animals where additional information such as performance test results and breeding values is available. Joining the scheme Participation does not require exceptional skills. The farmer only needs to keep basic records such as the testing date. Since not all farmers can afford the time and /or manpower to do milk recording, ARC technicians/milk recorders can do the test for you. The farmer pays for the delivery and testing of the samples, the control and maintenance of standards and the processing of the data. To join the scheme you need to contact the ARC in Irene: 012 672 9111. Sources for the chapter: Milk Producers’ Organisation; Agricultural Marketing Extension. Training Paper No. 6 Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF); correspondence to this project by the Animal Production directorate at DAFF. Our thanks to the Milk Producers Organisation for feedback on the draft chapter
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Livestock Donkeys 1. Overview Donkeys can play a vital role in the economy. As a result of the droughts the number of donkeys used for cultivation and transport has increased dramatically. In the southern part of Africa donkey use is on the increase and liable to remain at high levels for the foreseeable future. Donkeys are utilised throughout the country for a variety of reasons – such as transport on farms, rural villages and everyday water and supplies collection, and ploughing. Recently their value in guarding sheep and goats has reduced the need for other forms of predator control 1. Donkeys are pretty optimal because: • They are cheap to buy and have a long life (~ 50 years). • Kilogram-for-kilogram, they produce more work than oxen. • Kilogram-for-kilogram, they eat and drink much less than oxen, and eat particularly low quality vegetation. • They are outstandingly easy to train and handle. • They have a fairly low center of gravity and pull from a point not too high from the ground. • Their hoofs, being without points, do minimal damage to soils. Advantages • friendly towards humans • willing to work • can turn in a small space • easy to train • need little supervision in work • can utilise poor food well • need little water • not affected much by external parasites • less impact on soils than cattle or machines • can survive well in tsetse areas • can survive droughts better than cattle • comparatively cheap to buy • strong relative to size • live/work long years in good care • milk good for humans, especially babies • useful for calming, training and guarding other kinds of animal • work better in pairs with a friend
Disadvantages • suffer from being alone • noisy when frustrated or lonely • friends not easily separate • uncastrated males aggressive towards other donkeys • skin easily wounded • tendency to wander long distances if not supervised • tendency not to move out of the way of traffic • need shelter from cold and damp • produce only enough milk for own young, no extra • comparatively small in size • mature slowly • breed slowly • manure more fibrous than nutritious
• A responsive donkey will be very watchful and, although allowing a stranger to come quite close in an open field, will be prompt in backing away from any strange movement. • An Excitable donkey will run, probably kicking its heels in the air, when seeing a stranger in an open field. • A donkey is obedient if it knows the commands, responds to them quickly and does not need to have them repeated. • Moving 1 km under 5 minutes is FAST for a donkey, and it cannot be expected to go much further than 1 km at this speed. • A donkey that walks more slowly than a human being is TOO SLOW. • A donkey is AGILE if it can turn in a space only a little wider than itself and climb up and down steps at least 50 cm high; if it cannot do these things, it is CLUMSY. Some important considerations: • Bearing in mind that donkeys separated from their friends are liable to suffer and, at the very last, give trouble, it is wise to choose donkeys in pairs, i.e. pairs of friends. • A female must not be separated from her foal before it is about a year old and certainly not before she has weaned it herself otherwise behavioural problems might be caused in both mother and foal. • Not to be forgotten, when a donkey is bought, is its name. If the previous owner has a name for the donkey, then this indicates that the donkey has probably received good treatment, and most probably some good training. As a buyer, you will need to use the donkey’s original name so as to establish a good relationship with it. What is the difference between a donkey and a mule? A mule is a donkey-horse hybrid: the mother a horse, the father a donkey. The disadvantage of size in a donkey can be overcome if mules are bred. Mules are just about as strong as horses, but have the disease resistance and willingness to work that donkeys have. The great disadvantage of mules is that they are not fertile, and only extremely rarely can breed further mules. Although donkey transport has been in place in South Africa for over 400 years, the animal responsible for its success and sustainability has been ignored – and worse. Using sound economic-based research, it can be shown that one donkey can bring in a profit of more than R3000.00 a month if it is used for less than 10 days a month, using current income and cost factors. As Dr Peta Jones points out under heading 10, the very worst kind of cart for donkeys is the one most common in South Africa: two wheels, giving balance problems, and one shaft, giving hitching problems (hitching is the way the animal is connected to what it operates). It is important for donkey health and efficiency to overcome these problems. Carts have been designed so that they are safe for passengers, but ergonomically efficient – so a single human student (who weighs about half of the 150 kg that is the weight of an average donkey) can pull the single donkey cart with 2 students on board, with ease! Two students can pull the 4 wheel cart with six students on board with no real effort. Contact Prof C McCrindle for more information
Source: P Jones
Ways of Judging a Donkey’s Temperament • A donkey with its ears pointed forward is interested and willing to participate. • A donkey with its ears back is frightened, angry or too excited and can easily behave badly. • A donkey with a calm temperament would, in an open field, allow a strange human (or donkey) to come quite close before moving away, and when it moves, it will move slowly. 1. Not all donkeys make good livestock guards because there are significant behavioural differences between individuals. Also, A donkey’s behaviour may be unpredictable during oestrus, or when ewes are lambing or rams are working, as donkeys are able to sense behavioural changes in these animals.
2. Institutions and associations involved Find details of the Highveld Horse Care Unit, the Eastern Cape Horse Care Unit and the Cart Horse Protection Association Clinic & Training Centre in the chapter on horses. These groups are very much involved with donkeys too. Animals in Distress Cell: 083 640 8822
[email protected] www.animalsindistress.org.za
ARC-Livestock Business Division Rain Gerhard Tel: 012 672 9111 / 9086
ARC-Institute of Agricultural Engineering Tel: 012 842 4000
[email protected] [email protected] www.arc.agric.za
De Rust Donkey Project Tel/fax: 044 241 2231
[email protected] Helping local communities with equipment and donkey care to offer donkey-based tourism.
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Donkey Power Facilitation and Consultancy Dr Peta Jones Tel: 015 517 7011
[email protected]
Stellenbosch University Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology Dr S Matthee Tel: 021 808 4777
[email protected]
Advice on the management of and making equipment for donkeys, and Research has been conducted on participatory training for owners, the internal parasites (worms) and handlers and extension workers is their control in donkeys. provided. Donkey Sanctuary Tel: 023 625 1593 www.donkeysanctuary.co.za Madzivhandila College of Agriculture Tel: 015 962 7200 National Council of SPCAs Farm Unit Tel: 011 907 3590 The NSPCA provides training and equipment to donkey owners throughout South Africa. Old, worn, inappropriate, broken bridles and harnesses are removed and replaced with correct fitting and appropriate equipment.
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Soshanguwe campus Dr Hendrik van Zyl
[email protected] University of Johannesburg Mr Chris Bradnum (Design Group Leader Animal Drawn Carts) Tel: 011 406 559 1387
[email protected] University of the Free State Department of Zoology & Entomology Prof OB Kok Tel: 051 401 2489
[email protected] University of Pretoria Veterinary Faculty at Onderstepoort Prof C McCrindle Tel: 012 529 8022 / 75
[email protected]
If warranted, local veterinarians / state veterinarians are called upon to castrate stallions, often at the NSPCA’s expense. These outreach programmes are performed in rural areas – where resources are either Research has been conducted on unobtainable locally or owners do the internal parasites of donkeys, and they are now actively involved not have the funds. in donkey castration and other South African Network for donkey care techniques, and Animal Traction (SANAT) designing donkey carts, wagons Tel: 040 602 2125 and harnesses.
[email protected] This group organises meetings and keeps a directory of South African stakeholders in animal traction, including donkeys.
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Strategy varies from province to province, and also involves the Department of Transport – notably in Limpopo and North West – and the South African Bureau of Standards as regards donkey carts. Directorate: Animal and Aqua Production Tel: 012 319 7448 Tel: 012 319 7512 – K Ramsay
[email protected] Tel: 012 319 7511 – M Selepe
[email protected]
4. Websites and publications • Donkeys for Development. Jones, PA. ATNESA/ARC/Donkey Power. ISBN 0-620-22177-1. This small handbook designed for resourcepoor rural donkey owners covers everything from choosing and buying donkeys, through their life-cycle and nutritional and veterinary needs, to equipment-making and donkey training in a mere 160 pages with plenty of photographs and diagrams. An updated version on CD (along with PowerPoint presentations on donkey use) is also available. These are obtainable from Donkey Power CC. Contact Peta at 015 517 7011, email at
[email protected]. The postal address is PO Box 414, Makhado / Louis Trichardt, 0920. • Care and Use of Working Donkeys, an educational booklet, is available at www.daff.gov.za. Take the Publications and Info Paks menu options. Find “Animal traction: care and use of working donkeys” on the listing. This publication can also be obtained from the Resource Centre (012 319 7141) or from the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) at 011 907 3590. A revised version is also available electronically from
[email protected]. • There are many documents available on www.atnesa.org (find the “Documents by country and region” menu option). South African titles include Profitability of using animal traction under small holder farming conditions in Eastern Cape, South Africa (TE Simalenga, A Belete, NA Mseleni and LL Jongisa), “Extension methods for improving the welfare of traction animals” (Cheryl ME McCrindle and Limakatso E Moorosi), “Response to demand: meeting farmers need for donkeys in southern Africa (Peta A Jones), “Animal traction in South Africa: overview of the key issues” (Paul Starkey, Funiwe Jaiyesimi-Njobe and Dirk Hanekom) etc. Other works include: • Fielding, D, & P Krause, 1998. Donkeys. London: Macmillan ISBN 033-62750-4 • Hutchins, B, P Hutchins & L Patton, 1999. The definitive donkey (2nd edn). Texas: Hee-Haw Book Service. ISBN 0-9659312-0-X • James, M & Jones, P, 2007. Care and use of working donkeys. Fort Hare: South African Network for Animal Traction and National Council of SPCAs. (Available electronically f rom
[email protected]) • Svendsen, ED, J Duncan and D Hadrill (eds), 2008. The professional handbook of the donkey (4th edn). Yatesbury, UK: Whittet Books. ISBN 13 978-1-873580-68-4
5. International business environment Animal Traction Network for Eastern and Southern Africa (ATNESA) – www.atnesa.org. Various publications and organisations worldwide (dealing with donkeys) are mentioned. The “ATNESA contacts” menu option includes details for contacts in Zimbabwe, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Zambia, and the UK. Three of these contacts are given below: Kenya
Kenya Network for Dissemination of Agricultural Technologies
Tel: +254 2067 66939
[email protected] www.kendat.org
Tanzania
Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Dept of Agricultural Engineering at the Sokoine University of Agriculture
Tel: +255 22 286 2003
[email protected] [email protected] Tel: +255 56 4562 or 4617
[email protected]
Uganda
Agricultural Engineering and Appropriate Technology Research Center (AEATREC)
[email protected]
Other Department of Transport Deputy Director: Integrated Implementation Support Tel: 012 309 3403
[email protected] www.dot.gov.za
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• www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk – UK Donkey Sanctuary works worldwide • www.spana.org – Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad (SPANA) • www.ifrtd.org – The International Forum for Rural Transport and Development • www.thebrooke.org – an equine welfare charity based in the UK. • The University of Edinburgh puts out a Draught Animal News newsletter. Visit www.vet.ed.ac.uk • www.animaltraction.com hosts some useful information and links.
6. Donkeys, transport and the environment • The transport of donkeys is problematic because they do not respond well to being put in lorries – often dying in transit – and cannot always cope with the different vegetation in new environments. (See more under ‘Nutrition and Transport’ in the heading to follow). The best place to buy donkeys is locally, and the best way to transport them is to walk them. • Where soils are concerned, donkeys are light, hoofs small and cause less compaction than larger animals such as cattle or horses and of course tractors and trucks. Where vegetation is concerned, donkeys have relatively low feed requirements compared to cattle and horses and because they are very selective, will leave many plants and grasses alone, preferring to journey long distances in search of what they like rather than to stay in one place and eat everything. Because this helps them survive droughts so well, they are often the only animal survivors of droughts. Some people blame them for the bareness of the landscape whereas in fact they are simply the survivors, existing where few other animals can.
7. Donkeys and nutrition • Daily rations for a working donkey. (“Working donkey” is a 200300 kg donkey carrying 25-70 kg load at 4 km/hr, 6 hrs/day), to be given in the morning, and then the same amount again in the evening: - 500g grain (e.g. maize, sorghum) coarsely ground FOLLOWED BY - 2.5 kg chaff (i.e. waste matter from winnowing sorghum or millet) or groundnut shells. Some chaff can be replaced with hay or straw (dry grass) • A general rule of thumb is that a donkey should be provided daily with straw or hay equalling 5% of its bodyweight, even though it may only eat about half of this. If a donkey is working and has no opportunity to graze, specific daily amounts are recommended (see above). • Old donkeys which cannot easily use their teeth should be allowed to have finely ground grain and chaff, in slightly lesser quantities if they are not working. Young, pregnant or lactating donkeys may require another half a kilogram of grain. A resting donkey which cannot graze and has to be given food needs about 1 kg less than a working one. • Although donkeys do not have a rumen, they make very good use of the cellulose in plants by means of a specialised part of their colon, and require a high proportion of such roughage. On the other hand, an excess of proteins can actually be harmful to donkeys, so if supplements are provided, these must be especially selected for a donkey’s own digestive needs. Cattle supplements will not do, and horse supplements must be used with caution.
Nosebag for supple-mentary feeding while at work or away from home. A net instead of a bag, and fitted well over muzzle, can be used to prevent a donkey taking supplementary feed for itself when working among crops.
• Food industries in some countries produce a supplementary food for horses in large pellets, known as ‘horse cubes’. These can quite safely be given to donkeys, who like them very much. However, it should always be borne in mind that donkeys need more fibre and less protein in their diets than horses do. They are not simply ‘small horses’, as they are quite different in many ways. • Even when well fed, donkeys will often seek out their own supplements if they have the opportunity. This is because of the different individual requirements of each donkey. They will search rubbish heaps and poultry runs for tidbits, but should really be prevented from doing so. They might take in substances harmful to their digestion, like plastic and meatmeal. Also, they might over-eat, or eat decaying food with poisonous bacteria or fungi. • Sometimes it could be minerals that donkeys are looking for. Salt blocks or ‘licks’, as well as calcium and phosphorous in powder form (the most important ones) can sometimes be obtained from farm suppliers. A WARNING: Urea is poisonous to donkeys in large enough quantities, and is sometimes included in cattle licks. • An occasional supplement which provides minerals and can also help with constipation, is molasses. Because it is sweet and could rot their teeth, donkeys should not be encouraged to have it too often or in large quantities. However, it is very good for their health and they love it. Mixed with their evening tidbit to bring them home, it has a powerful effect. • Supplementary feed should be provided in clean containers that cannot easily be knocked over by donkeys – and there should be sufficient containers that the donkeys do not need to fight for priority. If there is one thing that really interests a donkey above all else, it is food. • One way to ensure that a donkey has enough to eat is to provide at least the fibre component in the form of hay – cut dried grass or the smaller stalks of grain – available in the night enclosure in a hay net. It is one thing that will draw the donkey home at night, but should not simply be scattered on the floor. Nets of wide mesh can be made which can be hung from poles or walls, and the nimble mouths of donkeys can easily take out what they want. Crop Residues available as Supplements Such residues piled in a yard that donkeys occupy can serve as supplementary feed through the dry season. If mouldy, however, they can harm donkeys. A haynet holding 6 kg straw – daily ration for one donkey – can easily be made of rope, to be kept away from damp and raised and lowered as required. Nutrition and Transport • Donkeys cannot easily be transported in lorries and trucks in the way that cattle and sheep are, and it is necessary for those selling and buying donkeys to be aware of this. Too often, donkeys will die a couple of days after reaching their destination. This could be for a number of reasons, one of which could be separation from friends, another the sheer terror of the journey. Both of these contribute to a nervous reduction in a donkey’s blood sugar levels. A period without food will also contribute to this; it has to be remembered that donkeys digest food more rapidly than ruminants like cattle, sheep and goats and must therefore eat more regularly. In normal circumstances a couple of days without food might not kill a donkey, but a stressed donkey is a different matter. A donkey suffering from fear or any other nervous upset is also likely not to want to eat, and the problem can thus be compounded. The anxiety may also cause diarrhoea and this too will stress a donkey’s digestive system as well as dehydrate it. • Just by itself, the drop in blood sugar level can be fatal, but this can be prevented if the donkeys are given a glucose injection immediately before the journey begins. That then leaves other things to be dealt with: physical damage caused by other donkeys and the vehicle, the effect on the donkey’s behaviour, and also dehydration. • It is far better, and probably cheaper too, to have donkeys driven on foot across country than to have them taken in a motor vehicle. It may be slower, but it has a less disastrous effect on donkeys.
8. Donkeys and work • Effective utilisation of donkeys requires a technology that matches the animals’ size, shape and abilities. Donkeys in sub-Saharan Africa are used increasingly for packing, carting and tillage, all of which demand different technologies. The technology needed for draft applications is less well established but requires consideration. This is especially important as donkeys are increasingly being obliged to take on the role of oxen even to the extent of working with traditional ox-drawn equipment, which can damage donkeys. Elsewhere they have taken over from horses, but even so they may often require different equipment.
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• To specify what technology and equipment is appropriate for donkeys, the characteristics of the power unit (i.e. the donkey) must be defined. Detailed information in the literature is sparse and possibly suspect. However, a ‘typical’ African donkey weighs about 140 kg. It has a sustainable draft capacity equal to about 17% of this live weight, or 240280 N draft force (dependent on the specific task being performed). It walks at about 0.7 metres per second while working and can sustain this output for 3-4 hours per day. Such a ‘typical’ sub-Saharan donkey therefore can develop 170-200 W of sustainable power and perform 1.8-2.8 MJ of work in a day. If implements or carts require more energy input than this, they will not be appropriate for single donkeys. • Similarly, common donkey carts in southern Africa weigh 250 kg. With a small 100 kg payload, a single donkey could only pull this cart if the road were flat. • What needs to be avoided is the system in common use, adopted from horse technology, whereby the front end of the shaft is suspended from the animals’ necks by means of straps attached to a horizontal transverse pole shared by the two animals. Especially in the case of two-wheeled carts rather than four-wheeled wagons, load imbalance generally means that much of the cartload is transferred through the shaft onto the draft animals. If the traces are too short, this load comes directly onto the donkeys’ necks rather than their withers, and donkeys’ necks are less strong than those of horses and can suffer damage. If the traces are too long, the load may be on the withers but the animal ends up exerting pulling force not through the harness but on the transverse bar which – depending on the length of the straps – can hit against its neck or the tops of its legs and can cause damage through not being designed for the purpose of being pushed to move the horizontal weight of the cart.
Some First Aid: Item Methylated spirits
Purpose Initial cleaning of wounds or injection site, also cleaning of application stick
Cotton wool (in disks Initial cleaning of wounds or injection site, etc. or balls) Solution of salt in spray Initial cleaning of wounds, even treating wounds bottle or washing of eyes Solution of bicarbonate Washing of eyes in case of cobra attack of soda in spray bottle Purple wound spray
Treatment of septic-looking wounds after cleaning
Vaseline
For skin complaints, including ticks and wounds already healing
Stockholm tar
Covering cleaned wounds
Application stick
For covering sites with Stockholm tar
Large nail
For cleaning out hoofs and removing embedded objects
Small hacksaw
For trimming hoofs
Hoof Wall Disease and some other causes of lameness
9. Donkey First Aid Orphaned foals If a foal’s mother dies, and there is no other mother available, or one cannot be persuaded to adopt it (by covering the foal with salt to encourage mother-licking), then of first importance is to find a suitable other animal, not necessarily a donkey, to keep it company 24 hours a day. It should of course be kept warm and dry, and have plenty of soft places where it can lie down to sleep. Foals have teeth and will start tasting plants and gradually eating them from the time that they are only a few days old. However, they will not survive without plenty of milk, and they should have this for at least 6 months. The recommended mixture for donkeys is very close to human formulae i.e. 375 ml cow’s milk + 125 ml water + 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Feed this, warmed to blood temperature, every 3 hours to a young donkey out of a suckling bottle. One advantage of donkeys is that they suffer very little from diseases and pests. Intestinal helminths and ticks can, however, affect their work and shorten their lives and so regular treatment or environmental control should be part of good husbandry. Problems to watch out for are: • hoof and leg problems from neglectful use; • harness wounds; • snake and other predator attack; • respiratory ailments from poor housing in cold and wet conditions; • eye irritations which, if not treated, can result in blindness.
When a donkey is lame and the problem is clearly in the hoof, it is sometimes difficult to know exactly what is wrong. Fungal infections within the hoof wall can occur, which are very painful for the animal and can be transmitted to others. There are treatments which can be tried because they are often effective. The following is considered to be tried and true: Copper Sulphate ( ‘Blue Stone’) Bath: This method remains one of the most effective control techniques. To 2 litres of water, add 225 ml (11 tablespoons or 45 teaspoons) copper sulphate and 27 ml (5-6 teaspoons) vinegar and/or citric acid. This bath should be used on each affected foot for about 5 minutes every other day. If all else fails, this should work. A good technique is to use a section of inner tube to hold the solution in contact with the foot. Slip the tube half its length up the leg and pour in a cup or so of the solution and fold the rest up around the pastern. It can be secured with a soft rope or rubber ‘catapult’.. The donkey is then walked around for a while. The walking action forces the solution up into the affected area. Be sure to keep the pH of your solution around 4 or a little higher with this method since it will come into constant agitated contact with the skin. You can adjust the pH upward with baking soda (sodium bicarbonate). The advantage of this is that it can be mixed and kept stored indefinitely. Even if it evaporates, it can be reconstituted with water, but it is better to keep it from evaporating.
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10. The donkey cart The very worst kind of cart for donkeys is the one most common in South Africa: two wheels, giving balance problems, and one shaft, giving hitching problems (hitching is the way the animal is connected to what it operates). It is important for donkey health and efficiency to overcome these problems.
CHEAP, EASY AND KIND TO DONKEYS: Harnessing to a single-shaft cart
Fitting it all together, step by step
Step 1
What you will need: Item Cart
Description
Quantity
One shaft, at least 1 2m long from front of loadbed. Two hitching points (hooks or rings): * above shaft, at front end, * pulling point under shaft just in front of loadbed. Wheels as large as possible. Tyres pneumatic as possible. Springs if possible (Sketch design available on request)
Donkeys
In good condition, especially their legs and feet.
2
Harnesses
No sharp cutting edges or wire. Must fit the donkey wearing it, so preferably adjustable. Various materials possible, but must be: strong, easy to clean, preferably absorbent (Design available on request)
4
Swingle and evener sets
Made of light, strong, rigid material (metal or wood). Each swingle connected to evener by two chain links. Swingles long enough so that traces move clear of donkey body.
2
Traces
Preferably chains, 4mm. 4 Each 2m maximum
Hooks
Strong carbon steel (to (as take force)S-shaped can required) link traces to swingles, if not fixed, and eveners to cart, if not fixed.Cshaped, if not already fixed to harnesses, to link harnesses to traces.
What you do Hook swingle sets to front and back hooks on cart. Fix traces/chains between swingles, keeping them straight and tight.
What it looks like
From top:
(NB These can stay in place permanently) 2
Put two harnesses on each donkey, one for chest and one for backside.
3
With end of disselboom/ shaft on the ground, put donkeys into position between the traces, clear of front and back swingles (when donkeys are accustomed, they do this on voice command).
4
On both sides of each donkey (easy to lean over): pull up traces to hook tight to harnesses. Front harness hooks to back. Back harness hooks to front. (This is a little easier if someone lifts the disselboom/shaft). Slack chain remains between the hooks.
5
Stand back and check: Disselboom/shaft far enough from ground at front (if not, then tighten traces more with hooks). Donkey front and back far enough from swingles so no contact when moving (if not, unhook and reposition donkey, then re-hook).
6
READY TO GO! Donkey comfort and efficiency assured.
Unless stated otherwise, the information in this chapter is from Dr Peta Jones. Contact her at
[email protected]
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Livestock
South African National Equestrian Federation (SANEF) Tel: 011 468 3236/7
[email protected] www.horsesport.org.za SANEF is the umbrella body for the following Provincial Bodies:
Equine industry – horses 1. Overview Horses in South Africa are used in a wide array of activities. They are very effectively utilised in poorer communities as draught animals, for general transport and as an agile means of tracking stock animals in remote and rural areas where motorised vehicles are inadequate or unavailable. Horses are also extensively used in sport and leisure and in some cases are considered champion athletes that can have large commercial values attached to them. Source: Otto Koekemoer, ARC – OVI
2. Associations involved SA Stud Book and Animal Improvement Association Tel: 051 410 0900 www.studbook.co.za See the Animal Improvement and Breeders chapter for contact details of the following: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Appaloosa Horse Breeders’ Society of SA Arab Horse Society of SA Friesian Horse Breeders’ Society of SA Kaapse Boerpers Breeders’ Society of SA Lipizzaner Society of S A Nooitgedacht Horse Breeders’ Society Percheron Horse Breeders’ Society of SA Saddle Horse Breeders’ Society of SA SA Boerperd Breeders’ Society SA Hackney Horse Breeders’ Society SA Hackney Pony Breeders’ Society SA Minature Horse Breeders’ Society SA Paint and Pinto Club SA Quarter Horse Association SA Sport Horse Federation SA Vlaamperd Breeders’ Society SA Warmblood Horse Society Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association of SA Welsh Pony and Cob Society of SA
Eastern Cape Horse Society Tel: 041 379 1361 www.eastcapehorsesociety.co.za
KwaZulu-Natal Horse Society Tel: 031 768 1220 www.kznhs.co.za
Free State and Northern Cape Horse Society Tel/fax: 018 468 1353 www.fsnc.org.za
Mpumalanga Horse Society Tel: 017 647 0205 www.mphs.co.za
Western Province Horse Society Gauteng Horse Society Tel: 021 531 7971 Incorporating Limpopo and North www.wphs.co.za West Tel: 011 702 1657-9 www.thsinfo.co.za SANEF supervise the following disciplines: Dressage, Driving, Equitation, Eventing, Showing, Show Jumping and Vaulting. It formulates the rules and codes of practice for competitors and officials in South Africa, and in turn falls under the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI – visit www. horsesport.org), which governs the sport internationally. Most of the following are SANEF-affiliated bodies and groups: • The Polocrosse Association of South Africa – www.polocrosse.co.za has useful links on Polocrosse worldwide. Write to secretary@polocrosse. co.za • The Racing Association Tel: 011 683 3220 www.racingassociation. co.za • National Horseracing Authority Tel: 011 683 9283 www. horseracingauthority.co.za • South African Farriers Association Tel: 082 552 5468 • South African Polo Association Tel: 031 303 3903
[email protected] • Endurance Ride Association of South Africa Tel: 051 448 2428 www. erasa.co.za • South African Equestrian Tent Pegging Association Tel: 023 417 1691 • Harness Racing Association of South Africa Tel: 031 314 1680 www. harnessracingsa.co.za South African Equestrian Tent Pegging Association Tel: 023 417 1691 South African Tentpegging teams have competed in Australia, Great Britain, India, Israel, Pakistan, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
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Horsecare Units
• This is the largest equine welfare organisation in the southern hemisphere, addressing all aspects of equine welfare and covering an area of over 4000 km2 – Musina to Kimberly. • They have two inspectors who work full time in the townships educating owners in how to care for their working horses/donkeys, and assisting with primary care – harnessing, wound treatments, deworming etc. • They recently opened the Eastern Cape Horse Care Unit in Port Elizabeth, which deals mainly with working horses and donkeys in the many townships in the area. Contact Megan Hope on 072 357 2505 or write to her at
[email protected] There are two additional horse care units in KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape. These are based at, and managed by, the NSPCA. Western Cape Horse Care Unit KwaZulu-Natal Horse Care Tel: 021 700 4173 Unit www.spca-ct.co.za Tel/fax: 031 764 2949
Rehabilitation of neglected horses Cart Horse Protection Association (CHPA) Tel: 021 535 3435 www.carthorse.org.za Over the past years, the CHPA has established regular clinics, introduced the sale of subsidised feed, a farrier service and veterinary care. With 70% of income going directly to benefit the horses, the enforcement of relevant provisions of the Animal Protection Act and education of cart horse owners,
CHPA has successfully improved the condition and standard of many cart horses on our roads today. National Horse Trust Tel: 011 683 4388/9 www.nationalhorsetrust.org.za A programme developed, unique to South Africa, to reduce potential neglect and deterioration of Thoroughbreds after their racing careers.
3. National strategy • African horse sickness (AHS) is a notifiable disease in SA – all suspected cases have to be reported to a State Vet. Cases have to be confirmed at the Office International des Epizooties (OIE) reference centre for African horse sickness at the ARC-OVI. Member countries have to report outbreaks to the OIE headquarters. • The head of the OIE reference centre for AHS is Dr Truuske Gerdes (contact details under heading 4). Find more at http://www.oie.int/eng/ OIE/organisation/en_listeLR.htm Directorate: Veterinary Services Tel: 012 319 7679
[email protected]
HORSEwoMAN Tel: 011 702 1223 / 082 491 6678 Truuske Gerdes
[email protected] Diagnostician and Head: the OIE www.horseman.co.za reference centre for African horse sickness Onderstepoort Biological Tel: 012 529 9114 Products
[email protected] Tel: 012 522 1500 www.obpvaccines.co.za Otto Koekemoer Molecular Biologist REC Equestrian Academy Tel: 012 529 9229 Tel: 072 247 2929
[email protected] http://academyrec.co.za Contacts at OVI:
Highveld Horse Care Unit Tel: 016 360 9900 Emergencies: 082 921 1644
[email protected] www.horsecare.org.za
Directorate: Animal and Aqua Production Tel: 012 319 7493
[email protected]
4. Training and research ARC-Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute (ARC-OVI) Tel: 012 529 8000 www.arc.agric.za
Gert Venter SANEF Schools Entomologist: Ecto parasites and Tel: 011 702 1657 blood feeding flies www.sanefschools.org.za Tel: 012 529 9181
[email protected] South African Jockey Academy Tel: 031 769 1103 As part of national efforts to control www.saja.co.za of African Horsesickness (AHS) in South Africa, the OVI fulfils two Satellite campuses in Cape Town important functions – research and and Port Elizabeth disease surveillance The South African National Visit www.arc.agric.za for more Equestrian Federation (SANEF) information. Tel: 011 468 3236 www.horsesport.org.za Beaulieu College Tel: 011 468 2114 Find the “Education” menu option www.beaulieucollege.co.za on the website. Cedara College of Agriculture Tshwane University of Tel: 033 355 9304/5 Technology Equine Diploma, Training and Tel: 012 382 5332 www.tut.ac.za facilities on site Damelin Tel: 011 948 9801 Equine Research Centre (ERC) Tel: 012 529 8068 Fax: 012 529 8301
[email protected]
University of the Free State Lengau Agricultural centre Dr MC van der Westhuizen Tel: 051 443 8859
[email protected]
University of Pretoria Faculty of Veterinary Science The ERC was established to Tel: 012 420 3111 provide scientific and veterinary www.up.ac.za services to the horseracing and For information on feeding an breeding industry. The Centre is orphaned foal – contact Dr Enette situated within the University of van Dyk. Pretoria’s Faculty of Veterinary Science at Onderstepoort. EquiworkSA Tel: 033 266 6035 / 084 375 6045 www.equiworksa.co.za
5. Websites and publications • The Horse Junction website – www.horsejunction.co.za – is a meeting place for people interested in horses. There are classifieds, listings, a place to ask advice etc • Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) – visit www.horsesport.org • EquineSA.com – “marketing and networking Africa’s horse world”
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• Visit www.kejafa.co.za or call 014 577 0005 for the following publications, available from Kejafa Knowledge Works: The Complete Equine Veterinary manual Tony Pavord & Marcy Pavord; Die SA Boerperd (a full colour Afrikaans publication); Natural Horse Care Pat Coleby; Storey’s Guide to Raising horses (breeding, care, facilities) Heather Smith Thomas; Storey’s Guide to training horse (ground work, driving, riding) Heather Smith Thomas. • South African Bloodstock News Picasso Headline (Pty) Ltd. Tel: 021 469 2500 • Horse Books Unlimited Tel: 011 315 5333 www.equiworksa.co.za/ books.php • Horse & Stable offers a free listing to any equine related business, organisation, association or society. Tel: 011 501 3189 • HQ South Africa’s Premier Equestrian Magazine, Panorama Publications (Pty) Ltd, Private Bag X4, Kyalami 1684. Tel : 011 468 2090, fax: 011 468 2091/2 • A Guide to Animal Diseases in South Africa – Horses, Donkeys and Mules by Pamela Oberem is available from Briza Publishers. Visit www.briza. co.za or call 012 329 3896. • Visit the Big Five website for information on management, diseases, nutrition and treatment of horses – www.bigfive.jl.co.za. Take the “Information” and “Information on horses” menu options. • Take a look at a network of equine industry business on the Equine South Africa website – visit www.equinesa.com • The List of Prohibited and Restricted Substances and Methods in Sports may be found and downloaded from www.wada-ama.org. If you are concerned about products that you may be taking or thinking of using, which may be banned, phone SAIDS Drug Free Information Hotline on 021 448 3888 Mon-Fri, 9H00-17H00 – or visit the SAIDS website www.drugfreesport.org.za which provides a comprehensive list of prohibited and restricted products & details of the substances which they may contain. • Horse Identification in SA Veterinary Genetics Laboratory – Onderstepoort. For further information and a free copy of the CD contact Dr Cindy Harper on 012 529 8068. It is also available on www.kalahari.net • Animals in Translation Temple Grandin and Catherine Johnson. Bloomsbury. • www.horseandhound.co.uk – “Home of Equestrianism” • A checklist for keeping your horse healthy (Refer to Horse Riding and care Handbook) – www.horsekeeping.com • Visit the African Horse Sickness Trust website – www. africanhorsesickness.co.za • Find the archived articles on www.farmersweekly.co.za • Visit the websites of companies and associations mentioned in this chapter.
6. Other roleplayers The Equine Directory and Resource Guide of SA (see heading 5) is a thorough database of companies and associations involved. See also the livestock-related chapter in the Inputs section of this directory.
Agri-Expo Tel: 021 975 4440
[email protected] www.agriexpo.co.za
Bio-Fly (Pty) Ltd Cell: 083 601 7221
[email protected] www.biofly.co.za
Agri-Expo are involved with shows, Bio-insectaries SA (BISA) Tel: 042 286 0978 auctions and trials.
[email protected] www.bioinsectsa.com Alu-star
[email protected] Cape Equine Therapy www.alustar.net Tel: 021 557 2747
[email protected] Details of distributors and dealers of the “world’s most advanced Connolly & Turner aluminium trailers” in Gauteng, Fax: 011 646 8942 KwaZulu-Natal, the Western Cape and Namibia are available on the International shipping agent website.
Electro-Brake Tel: 083 449 7658
Kathy Wiles
[email protected] Tel: 044 877 1825 An affordable electrical mechanical Fax: 044 877 1824 system for horsebox owners Monitoring of African horse Embryo Plus sickness in the the Garden Route Tel: 012 250 2359 area www.embryoplus.com Rodney Foster Equistar Tel: 011 702 1873 / 082 807 5805 Tel: 011 660 5505 / 082 619 0818
[email protected] www.equistar.co.za Carriages designed and built. “Bringing peace of mind to the SANEF instructor game, wildlife, livestock, equine and eco-tourism industries” The Ultimate Horse Fest™ Tel: 011 314 4404 Gold Anvil Horse & Farrier
[email protected] Tel: 011 314 2054 Tellington TTouch SA Horseshoes, farrier supplies and Tel: 011 884 3156 saddlery www.ttouch.co.za Horseracing South Africa (Pty) Ltd Trading as Racing South Africa Tel: 031 314 1799
[email protected] www.racingsouthafrica.com
Zais International Tel: 011 768 4264 Fax: 011 768 4265 Export agents
Identipet Tel: 011 957 3455/6
[email protected]
7. International business environment Find the “Export” menu option on www.racingsouthafrica.com
• The Import Export Working Group was formed in response to the de-registration of the South African Horse Import and Export Council. It is responsible for the ongoing maintenance of the South African Export Protocol (97/10/EC) and the development of a sustainable delivery system for the movement of horses in and out of South Africa. The working group meets on a monthly basis. • The South African Equine Trade Council (SAETRAC) is the marketing arm of Racing South Africa. It is also responsible for establishing market access in foreign countries and facilitating the export of horses of all breeds. It is a Section 21 Company that derives its funding on a matching grant basis from Racing South Africa and the Department of Trade and Industry (the DTI). • The African Horsesickness Trust (Reg. No. IT 043/2005/PMB) was primarily established to raise funds for research into the control and management of AHS and, for a potential cure for the disease. The Trust is primarily funded by Racing South Africa although contributions are made by interested equine groups towards solving specific problems. Since the 2006 AHS season, the Trust has managed a surveillance service in parallel with the existing SA Veterinary Service system. This includes a 24hr response line, an outbreak reporting arrangement with SA Veterinary Services, distribution of sample kits and the financing of sample collection and testing. Increasing awareness of the disease and accuracy of reporting has been achieved with the result that better decisions could be taken by both industry and State Vet. Additionally, strategic AHS vaccination campaigns have been facilitated by the AHS Trust in order to raise levels of immunity amoungst horses belonging to the indigent communities. For more information on any of the above points, contact Peter Gibson at 031 314 1799 or email
[email protected].
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Kenilworth Quarantine Station Tel: 021 761 8388 Fax: 021 700 1964
[email protected] www.racingsouthafrica.com The South African export protocol, 97/10/EC, was ratified by the European Union in 1997. Built on the principle of Regionalisation, South Africa is only permitted to export from the African horsesickness (AHS) Free Zone in the Western Cape. State Vet: Dr Gary Buhrmann Tel: 021 808 5026 / 083 642 0602 Fax: 021 808 5125
[email protected]
8. Horses and nutrition It is extremely difficult to give exact feeding rates, because of the great difference between horses, breed, size, and work intensity as well as the difference between different horse feed concentrates. Therefore the following should be seen as a guide only. A General rule of thumb is that horses should consume about two percent of their body weight as dry matter, this means that a horse that weighs 500 Kg need to eat 10 Kg of dry matter a day, and this should include the concentrate as well as the hay part of the diet. If we now look at what we know about a horse’s digestive system than we know that this should consist mostly of good quality hay and that just a small fraction should be concentrates that is high in grains. Depending on the work intensity of the horse and the density of the concentrate the following could be used as a general guideline. • Maintenance – 20 percent concentrate and 80 percent hay (2 concentrate and 8 Kg hay) • Light work – 30 percent concentrate and 70percent hay (3 concentrate and 7 Kg Hay) • Moderate work – 40 percent concentrate and 60 percent hay (4 concentrate and 6 Kg hay) • Intense work – 50 percent concentrate and 50 percent hay (5 concentrate and 5 Kg hay)
Kg Kg Kg Kg
If horses on 50 % concentrate 50 % hay still do not maintain weight and performance it will be advisable to go to a higher density concentrate, thus a concentrate with a higher protein and energy concentration per volume, rather than to give more concentrate. To sum up the rules of feeding: • Always allow access to fresh, clean water, in the paddock and in the stable. • Feed according to bodyweight, temperament and condition of horse. • Feed for work done, not in anticipation of the work the horse is about to do. • Feed lots of fibre for healthy gut function, always try to feed at least a minimum of 50% roughage. • Feed by weight, not by volume. This means that you must fiscally weigh your roughage as well as you concentrates. • Keep to a regular routine when feeding, always feed horses at the same time of the day. • Feed little and often and try and keep concentrate feed down to 22.5Kg per feed. • Feed only the best quality feeds, do not feed dusty or mouldy hays, and do not feed concentrates that is not formulated specifically for horses and that is not registered for horses. • Don’t work horses directly after feeding and do not feed horses directly after work, allow an hour after work before feeding. Further Considerations Further considerations when feeding horses is always to make any changes to a feeding regime gradually to give the horse time to adjust and to ensure that your horse has always got clean fresh water available.
When horses are allowed to graze one must be careful not to assume that the grazing quality is better than what it really is, in general the paddocks that we use are overgrazed and the nutritional value of the plant material is not as good as what it could have been. The time of the year also play a role in the quality of grazing and in the early spring although the grazing might look lush and green the plant material consists of about 80 % water. This means that a 500 Kg horse would have to consume 50 Kg of fresh grass to get to a 10 Kg of dry matter per day intake. Supplements Most horse feed manufacturers take in account that horse owners have not got access to good quality grazing, and that stabled horses do not have the freedom to graze and move around in order to find the best grazing and fields. Manufacturers also assume that not all horses has got access to good quality, well fertilised hay, and that the vitamin and mineral quality of the hay available are not always up to standard; also that the need for vitamins and minerals increase for horses that do work. Therefore they include vitamin and mineral supplements in their concentrates; there is no need to add extra supplements to a concentrate. If you feel that your horse needs extra supplements a good idea is to supply a saltlick rather than to add supplements to the diets. This will give the horse the opportunity to replenish its vitamin and mineral or salt supply if needed: horses will generally only lick on mineral and salt licks if they need it. Source: Helena Horn – EPOL. Reference: The Horse Nutrition Bible. Ruth Bishop.
For more information see: Equine Directory & Resource Guide of Southern Africa (Kejafa Publishing) or on www.epol.co.za.
There are several ways to reduce the worm burden in pasture. One way is to start with clean pasture. Large numbers of larvae on grass coincide with optimal conditions for grass growth. Land that has not been grazed by horses since the previous season and is then used for conservation purposes or burned is considered “clean”. Cattle, and sheep to a lesser extent, are not the host of most horse parasites so these animals will break the parasites life cycle. An extract from “Grassland Management of a Worm Problem” by Mr Linde du Toit (lecturer at TUT). For more information see: Equine Directory & Resource Guide of Southern Africa (Kejafa Publishing, p 185).
9. New entrants and farmers The Equestrian Development Scheme (EDS) Tel: 011 702 1657
[email protected] The main aim of the scheme is to identify previously disadvantaged riders, who have potential, natural talent and empathy with horses, and who have already started riding, and train them – taking them up the grades so that one day they can compete at the highest level. Their specific needs can be looked at – and sponsorship (in the case of child riders, a benefactor) can be found. Our thanks to Gert Venter of the ARC – OVI and to Racing South Africa for feedback on the draft chapter
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2. Websites and publications
Livestock Gamebirds, waterfowl and other poultry 1. Associations involved African Gamebird Research Education & Development Trust (AGRED) Tel: 083 445 2685
[email protected] www.agred.com AGRED promotes the sustainable utilisation of indigenous gamebirds and undertakes integrated programmes to develop the wise management of commercial farmland and natural habitats to increase the abundance of gamebirds. AGRED undertakes advocacy work in policy and legislation, and research into gamebird management and utilisation. AGRED targets landowners generally. AGRED offers a comprehensive advisory service through their publication on gamebirds and their website. South African Wingshooters Association Tel: 012 346 1220
[email protected] www.wingshooters.co.za
Kejafa Knowledge Works supply publications relevant to this chapter. Visit www.kejafa.co.za or phone 014 577 0005 for Raising Ducks and Raising Turkeys. AGRED’s Gamebirds of South Africa Field Identification and Management (also available in Afrikaans), illustrated by Penny Meakin, features 62 species of gamebirds, including guineafowl, francolin, partridge, quail, sandgrouse, duck, geese, snipe, bustard and korhaan. This includes species no longer hunted, but which are included to emphasise their conservation. The informative text includes identification keys, which guide the reader in diagnosing difficult species, and the illustrations of feathers, enabling the enthusiast to recognise the presence of gamebirds from feathers often found in the wild. The book provides the most comprehensive written information in South Africa on gamebird management, yet it is practical and easy to use. Refer to the following website for details – www.AGRED.com or phone 083 445 2685. The pocket-size Wingshooting Handbook contains hints and tips from 21 experts and is a must-have for wingshooters. It is packed with the knowhow and experience of leading wingshooters – scientists, field trial judges, gundog experts, veterinarians and others. Visit www.wingshooters.co.za. Waterfowl Bulletin. Editor: JJ Snyman. Find contact details under heading 1. This publication is available electronically. Subscribers can access all of the following information: The Basics; Scientific Classification; Swan Species; Geese Species; Duck Species; Profiles of Breeders; Breeders List; Eggs & Breeding; Ring Sizes; Rehabilitation Centrums; Nest Boxes; Housing & Aviaries; Buying; Feeding; Rearing Young; Rodents. The website is www. waterfowlsouthafrica.com
The SA Wingshooters Association is involved in sustainable harvesting and management of wild fowl populations as well as maintaining sound ecosystems, provide advice as well as assistance to farmers. It has a Helpline to assist members, for a nominal fee, with the relicensing of firearms and the new licensing of firearms.
Find the archived articles by Abré J Steyn on www.farmersweekly.co.za
South African Show Poultry Organisation (SASPO) Tel: 012 546 2866 www.saspo.org.za
Treehaven Waterfowl Trust sell a video on Successful Waterfowl Management – refer to www.treehaven.co.za.
SASPO publishes a quarterly newsletter and an annual yearbook. Details of affiliated clubs throughout the country are available on the website.
Goose Farming is a book about breeding, feeding, raising, farming, caring, as well as utilising down for hobbies and feather products. Contact Mignon Smit at 083 254 1335 or write to
[email protected]
Waterfowl South Africa Tel: 051 433 1845 / 082 875 0124
[email protected] www.waterfowlsouthafrica.com
The ARC-Livestock Business Division has had a number of relevant publications, some now out of print. Contact 012 672 9238/9 for the following:
Waterfowl South Africa is not really a Club or Association: the website is devoted to the many Waterfowl Breeders in the various provinces of South Africa and also Namibia who love exotic swans, geese and ducks as well as the many domestic ducks. The website is for subscribers to the Waterfowl Bulletin. The objective of Waterfowl South Africa and its many devoted breeders of exotic Swans, Geese and Ducks is to encourage the culture and propagation of all species of Waterfowl available in South Africa, and to perpetuate, to the best of their ability, those species in their purest and most perfect form; to collect and distribute scientific data and information relating to the keeping and rearing of waterfowl by the Internet and the SA Waterfowl Bulletin.
Contact the editor of the Waterfowl Bulletin for details of publications written by South African breeders on waterfowl. Neville Brickell and Hilko Insel are examples of such authors.
• Waterfowl (Duck, Geese and Muscovy Ducks) • The Quail (Updated) • The breeding of Quail (Updated) • General aspects for the management of quail (Updated) • Guinea-fowl breeds and natural breeding • Breeding, selection and AI in guinea-fowl • Intensive guinea-fowl production (Updated) • Turkeys The Info Pak (booklet) Muscovy Ducks is available from the Resource Centre at the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Call them at 012 319 7141, or visit www.daff.gov.za – take the Publications menu option.
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Visit the following overseas-based websites: • Take “The Poultry Page” at www.feathersite.com for notes on various species relevant to this chapter • www.thatquailplace.com – all about gamebirds • www.gamebird.com – a US website (and magazine) that offers information, photographs and articles on hundreds of pheasant, quail, ducks and gamebirds • www.ducks.org – Ducks Unlimited conserves, restores and manages wetlands and associated habitats for North America’s waterfowl. Their vision is “wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever”. • A website with information on turkeys is www.free-range-turkey.com. • Biology Browser (General info on animals or birds) – www. biologybrowser.org • www.homestead.org – take the Poultry menu option for articles on peacocks and guinea fowl. • Find the books available at the NHBS Environment Bookstore (UK, but worldwide delivery) – www.nhbs.com
3. Breeders and other roleplayers • Contact details of additional waterfowl breeders is available from Waterfowl South Africa (details under heading 1). • The details of numerous South African Show Poultry Organisation (SASPO) clubs can be found at www.saspo.org.za Roleplayer and contact details
Website and/or information
Find details of AGRED under heading 1
Expert advice on gamebird management and utilisation
Bester Birds and Animals Zoo Park Tel: 012 807 4192 / 082 566 7898
[email protected]
www.besterbirdsanimals.co.za As breeders of exotic birds and animals, the zoo imports and exports various rare animals.
Cape Duck Farm Tel: 021 988 4050 Conradie, Pieta One of the largest collections of Tel: 023 342 1219 / 082 574 5956 waterfowl in South Africa. Find the link on www.waterfowlsouthafrica. com De Klerk, Estelle Sinzane Turkey Farm (near Potchefstroom) Tel: 072 375 3854
[email protected]
Estelle is perhaps the only woman breeding turkeys in South Africa. She handles the entire production chain, has her own abattoir and does deliveries. Demand outstrips production and therefore there is great potential for other roleplayers who have the stamina to farm turkeys.
Ducko Processing Tel: 014 537 2124
www.ducko.co.za Duck farming: produces duvets, pillows and sleeping bags
ARC Livestock Business Division Tel: 012 672 9238/9
In addition to the availability of the booklets listed above, advice, information, courses as well as eggs (e.g. quail eggs) may be purchased from the ARC.
Groenewald, Gawie Cell: 082 852 1678
Breeders of waterfowl
Lingenfelder, Albert Tel: 028 841 4936 Fax: 028 841 4004
Find his link on www. waterfowlsouthafrica.com
The Maysmith family Tel: 084 250 6144/ 058 853 0647 Fax: 058 853 065
Breeders of waterfowl
Montagu Springs Tel: 023 614 1050 (ask for Una) Tel: 021 462 2050 (ask for Karin)
[email protected]
www.montagusprings.co.za. A resort with a large collection of waterfowl. Some 264 breeding pairs in 65 species.
Nel, Diana Find this breeder’s link at www. Tel: 058 671 0072 / 082 789 3550 waterfowlsouthafrica.com Rous, T Tel: 051 753 0301
Guest house with waterfowl on the N1 (near Colesberg)
Ramsay, Keith
[email protected]
A member of the Animal and Aquaculture Production Directorate at DAFF who did some research into turkey production in South Africa in early 2008.
Snyman, Kobus A breeder of waterfowl and Tel: 051 433 1845 / 082 875 0124 editor of the Waterfowl Bulletin for Southern Africa breeders Spangenberg, Francois Tel/fax: 016 364 0773 Cell: 083 342 3734
A breeder of waterfowl
Steyn, Abré J Tel: 083 235 4822
[email protected]
An authority whose articles sometimes appear in publications like the Farmer’s Weekly.
Treehaven Waterfowl Trust (TWT) Tel: 082 900 0656 www.treehaven.co.za
The “largest collection of waterfowl in the world”
Van der Kamp, Willem A breeder of waterfowl who Tel: 012 732 1141 / 083 204 5654 undertakes many trips to Holland where trading in waterfowl is big business. A contact person to import waterfowl. Dr Viljoen, Slang Tel: 084 2020184
A field expert in gamebirds who has developed management techniques for South African farms.
Dr Whittington-Jones, Craig An ornithologist in the Gauteng Tel: 011 355 1493 Provincial government craig.whittington-jones@gauteng. gov.za Wing Haven Gardens Tel: 011 460 1311/082 574 6688
Find the link on www. waterfowlsouthafrica.com
4. Gamebirds • Not only have gamebirds played a role in human survival throughout ancient history, but all domestic turkeys and chickens also originate from them. • South Africa offers a wide variety of game birds, some 14 huntable species of duck, two of geese, 10 partridge (francolin) species, two pheasant-sized birds (guinea fowl) and quail. Gamebirds usually not recognised as resource on farms, yet gamebird hunting is a sport that can be developed. Gamebirds often reach far higher densities on farms, particularly grain and mixed farms, than in natural habitats or game farms. Farmers often regard gamebirds as a pest, yet they constitute an additional source of income. AGRED will also help farmers to develop hospitality services, and to market shoots, so adding considerable value to their gamebirds. The infrastructure required to establish gamebird utilisation will readily support other forms of eco-tourism and recreational land use, such as hiking, birding, mountain-biking or to simply escape from cities. Farmers in turn have shown that they constantly expand this system by encouraging their neighbours to participate. AGRED contact details can be found under heading 1. Sources: Abré J Steyn and Aldo Berruti (adapted) Thanks to Dr Berruti for feedback on the draft chapter
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Livestock Goats 1. Overview • The unimpressive goat is, in reality, one of nature’s most useful animals. It can be used for meat, fibre, milk, skins and manure. Owing to its great adaptability it can survive almost anywhere in South Africa. • The goatherd currently stands at approximately 2 106 000, 40% of which consists of Angora goat, from which mohair is derived. Saanen, Toggenburg and Alpine goats are mainly kept for milk production. Gorno Altai goats produce cashmere. The several indigenous breeds are very well adapted to South African conditions, and seldom get foot rot. Some types are also resistant to Heartwater. • Goat’s milk is highly prized for its quality of being less prone to cause allergies in humans than cow ’s milk. • Mohair is one of the rare noble fibres of the world. • The Boer goat’s meat contains less fat, fewer calories and higher levels of protein and iron than meat from beef, pork, lamb and chicken. • This chapter looks at the meat aspect and the information that is common to all goat enterprises, whether it be meat, mohair or milk. See the separate chapters that are more specific to mohair and goat milk.
2. Associations involved • International Goat Association – www.iga-goatworld.org • The different breeder societies are listed in the Animal Improvement and Breeders chapter
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Under the government’s Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa (AsgiSA – visit www.info.gov.za) goats are identified as a priority.
Directorate: Animal and Aquaculture Production Tel: 012 319 7493
[email protected] Goat statistics can be found on www.daff.gov.za (find the Statistics menu option under Publications).
4. Training and research ARC-Animal Production Institute Small Ruminant Nutrition Division Mr T Langa – 012 672 9269 Mr D. Nkosi – 012 672 9300
Döhne Agricultural Development Institute Tel: 043 683 1240
Eastcape Midlands College Tel: 041 995 2000 / 083 611 1803 The ARC–API Small Ruminant
[email protected] Nutrition unit offers technology www.emcol.co.za transfer services in a form of training to individuals involved in A 34-week course was offered in goat farming, and research on the 2009 (sponsored by the Eastern nutrition of goats. For information Cape government, Mohair South on goat production and products, Africa, and the Cacady District and Ikwezi municipalities) to please contact Mr T Langa. unemployed rural women. Contact For training on small stock Mr Klasie Claasen for details. management, contact Annetjie Loubser at 012 672 9153.
Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute (GADI) Tel: 049 8421113 Fax: 049 8424352 http://gadi.agric.za GADI undertakes research and provides training in the theory and practice of small stock production. The following services are rendered in support of the mission and strategic objectives: Training: • Higher Education and Training for studies towards a qualification in agriculture on NQF level 5-7 bands. • Further Education and training for studies towards a qualification in agriculture on NQF level 1 -4 bands. • Skills development programmes which are agricultural based and relevant to a sustainable sector. Research & Technology Development: • research on sustainable natural resource management and use; • research on livestock production technologies; • economic research for the benefit of the small stock industry. Extension and Outreach: • presentations at Farmers days and industry congresses; • advice to individuals; • written and electronic information dissemination ; • initiatives and partnerships towards local economic development.
Kalahari Kid Corporation Tel: 011 807 5623 / 4 (JHB office) www.kalaharikid.co.za Their agricultural officers do training on two “processes”: • Based on the Kalahari Kid Contract Grower’s Manual – Training provided by Kalahari Kid Agricultural Officers on a continuous basis. • AgriSETA Goat Management Training Course (NQF 1, 10-months, provides the learner with a National Diploma in Agriculture (Goats Specialisation). Provincial Departments of Agriculture, working closely with the Agricultural Colleges, offer courses on goat production. Examples include Cedara, Fort Cox and Glen College. Find contact details of all Agricultural Colleges in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter. Scientific Roets Tel: 039 727 1515 www.scientificroets.com Umnga Farmers Group Tel: 045 933 1318 University of Fort Hare Tel: 040 602 2126 University of the Free State Department Animal, Wildlife and Grassland Sciences Prof JPC Greyling Tel: 051 401 2211
5. Websites and publications GOATS – GENERAL • Available on the AGIS website – www.agis.agric.za (take the AGIS, Skills Development and eFarmer options) are easy-to-understand “Infotoons”. Included are “Why keep goats” and “The manufacture of goat meat products”. • Scientific Roets (Pty) Ltd has created a searchable on-line Information Database containing information primarily on goats and development (including information on toxins, nutrition etc.). Visit www. scientificroets.com • www.goats-goats.com – a highly useful website of information, setting out the economic sense of goat farming. It also provides a range of links (take the “Information” menu option). • A number of publications/papers relevant to goat farming are available on the Grasslands Society of South Africa (GSSA) website: www. grassland.co.za • South African Journal of Animal Science. Official Journal of the South African Society for Animal Science. (ISSN 0375-1589). Goat breeding, goat development and goat physiology are amongst the many papers presented. • Visit the websites of companies and associations involved e.g. www. iga-goatworld.org • Small-scale Livestock Farming – a grass-based approach for health sustainability and profit. Carol Ekarius. Storey Publishing.
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Call the ARC-Irene – 012 672 9111 – for the following publications: 1. Commercialisation of indigenous goat production and products in South Africa 2. Goat management manual The ARC and DAFF supply a series of very informative Info Paks (booklets) that covers various aspects of sheep/smallstock: • • • • • • • • • • • •
Boer goats: ewes and rams Boer goats: mating Boer goats: kidding Boer goats: breed standards Goats Common & Important diseases of sheep and goats Skin conditions in goats and sheep Breeding in sheep and goats Reproduction management of a sheep and goat farming enterprise How to estimate the age of goats and sheep Sheep and goats: Feeding Sheep and goats: How to estimate the age of a goat and sheep by looking at their teeth
Most of the Info Paks can be accessed at www.daff.gov.za – take the “Publications” option. Alternatively, call 012 319 7141.
GOATS – MEAT • Visit www.kejafa.co.za or call 014 577 0005 for the publication Raising Meat Goats. This comprehensive manual is the small-farm guide to profitable meat goat production. • www.boergoats.co.za – for Research, Nutrition & Feeding, Mating, Kidding, Diseases, Selection, Weaning, Marketing. Johan Steyn says: “This is the definitive resource for all information relating to Boer Goats. Whatever information or resource you cannot find on this site, contact me and I will do my very best to either obtain it for you or to put you in touch with the experts”. Contact him at 072 594 4626 or
[email protected] • http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/PDF/meatgoat.pdf – a pdf. • http://users.iafrica.com/m/mw/mwdatru/index.htm – the website of a South African farmer. Find the research done involving boer and indigenous goats, Damara and Dorper sheep. • www.kalaharikid.co.za • www.boergoatmania.com – a boer goat farm in the USA. • Excellent information on goat behaviour, as well as fencing, housing, working facilities, and predator control, may be found in the Meat Goat Production and Marketing Handbook at www.clemson.edu/agronomy/ goats/handbook. • www.boergoats.com, www.boergoats.ws and www.boergoat.bz • www.goatconnection.com. This portal provides info on Goat Meat Analysis, Marketing Slaughter Goats, and Marketing Channels for Meat Goats
5. Roleplayers eThekwini Municipality Akhona Ngcobo: Agri Business Manager Tel: 031 267 1813 www.dipa.co.za/agribusiness
Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Food, Beverage and Agro Industries Tel: 0860 693 888
[email protected] Research shows that 6 500 to 7 www.idc.co.za 000 goats are sold in the eThekwini region each week, a market The IDC is to inject R15,4 million that is begging to be developed. into the Northern Cape goat The project is about growing farming industry. the goat farming industry, first in the eThekwini region and then enticing Amakhosi from around the province to join in.
Invest North West Tel: 014 594 2570 / 2575
[email protected] www.inw.org.za Invest North West (INW) is a Section 21 company established under the auspices of the Department of Economic Development and Tourism in the North West Province (NWP).
KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development Tel: 033 264 2504
[email protected] www.kznded.gov.za Makana Goat Village Co-op Tel: 072 215 6412 www.makanagoatvillage.org.za The Makana Goat Farmers CoOperative and Village is in the process of the development of the infrastructure, institutions, the skills and business acumen required to provide long – term employment and sustainable development for the Makana community.
INW’s strategic intent is to provide vision, leadership and direction to key growth sectors in the provincial economy, to increase the level of direct foreign investment flow, and assist in the development of trade in the second economy to enhance its capacity to export to various The estimated residents of eRini are 120,000 people of which a markets. large percentage is unemployed. Amongst the planned agro- This enterprise hopes to bring processing industries is the some relief to the community and development of a goat industry also the emerging farmers. with a potentially lucrative export market to Islamic countries and Scientific Roets to China, where demand for goat Tel: 039 727 1515 www.scientificroets.com meat is high. Kalahari Kid Corporation Tel: 011 807 5624/5 (JHB office)
[email protected] www.kalaharikid.co.za The Kalahari Kid Corporation is dedicated to producing only superior quality goat and lamb products for both the local and international markets. It is a joint initiative between the Northern Cape Provincial Government and emerging farmers in the Northern Cape. It has been in operation for 8 years and has 113 co-operatives with some 600 emerging farmers. Kalahari Kid Corporation also offers a training programme for emerging farmers wishing to specialise in goat production through the Kalahari Kid Training Programme, which is a SETA accredited training programme in the Northern Cape.
Scientific Roets has been involved in a number of projects involving goats, whether this be drafting business plans and project management (e.g. Nkangala Goat Project, Rooiwal Goat Production and Processing Business Plan), skills programmes (e.g. Lady Frere Goat Skills Programme, Ukhahlamba Goat Skills Programme, Nkangala Goat Skills Programme, developing contract growers and other agri-business systems for the Kalahari Kid Corporation) or building infrastructure (e.g. Umzimvubu Goats Regional Goat Infrastructure). For the South African Goat Breeders’ Society, South African Boer Goat Breeders’ Society and the Savanna Goat Breeders’ Society, contact 049 842 4411 or write to
[email protected]
Kalahari Kid exports to the Middle East and Africa and has a satellite Kalahari Kid project in Uganda with 500 breeding does.
South African Milch Goat Breeders’ Society Tel: 051 410 0953 / 083 457 5775
[email protected]
The Kalahari Kid project will be rolled out on a national scale in the near future. A second phase “Mala Mamas” will invest in “bringing the food to the people” through empowering women and youth to participate in distributing goat meat to homes in informal communities and rural outlets. Kalahari Kid Corporation is the vehicle used to commercialise the goat industry in South Africa.
South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) Tel: 012 428 6648
[email protected] Veterinary remedy residue testing of meat Thornview Ranch Tel: 072 594 4626 www.thornviewranch.co.za www.boergoats.co.za
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6. Local and international business environment
Livestock
Find the “Marketing”, “International / Export” menu options on www. kalaharikid.co.za. They are targeting Mauritius, USA, UAE, Oman, France, Jordan, DRC, Greece, Italy, Turkey, Cyprus, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Algeria, Algeria and Switzerland. Northern Africa and the Middle East markets are to be targeted in initially the bulk carcass form, but also in a six cut and boxed sliced forequarter form. DAFF hopes Boer goat farming and exporting will attract thousands of black emerging and small-scale farmers. Local herds and breeding material are still too small to meet overseas demands. In the Northern Cape, a joint initiative between the Department of Agriculture and Land Affairs, the IDC and the Kalahari Kid Corporation aims to transform stock herders into active participants of the local and global economies.The project seeks to expand the current estimated goat population of over 700 000 by using the available natural resources and marketing opportunities.This will help develop the live goat market, increase supply of naturally reared meat to major retailers, and further allow for the processing of goat meat for exporting and the use of goat skin for leather. Source: BuaNews (adapted)
7. Goat meat • Meat goats can be raised with very little supplemental grain and with minimal shelter, and are generally an easy-care animal. The key management issues for a successful meat goat enterprise are fencing, parasite control, predator control, and marketing. Attention must also be paid to nutrition and to breeding stock selection. • While goats are enjoyable to raise and may be profitable, they are not a way to “get rich quick.” As with any farming endeavour, knowledge and skills are essential for success. Prospective producers are well advised not only to read up on the subject, but to find and spend time with a local meat goat producer, and ask lots of questions. • Before committing themselves to meat goat production, prospective producers should investigate market conditions, estimate costs, and work out a rough budget. In some areas, land and feed costs will be higher, increasing the cost of production; in some areas, lack of demand for meat or kids will make marketing more difficult. Economic feasibility will be enhanced if the meat goat enterprise uses land already owned but not fully utilised, such as brushy land on a cattle farm. If the financial prospects are encouraging and the decision is made to proceed, the next step is to install adequate fencing. • Housing needs for meat goats are very simple, and in moderate climates may consist of natural cover such as thick trees and brush or rock ledges. Goats need protection from rain and from cold wind and snow. Keeping them in a shed near the farmhouse will deter predators. For night shelter, allow 0.5 square metres per goat. • It will be helpful to have a sturdy catch pen, at least 1,2 metres tall. This pen is essential when handling the goats for deworming, vaccinations, foot trimming, and sorting. • A small group of goats will provide many learning experiences in the first year or two, and may easily be expanded as expertise is gained. Since one buck (male) can easily service 25 to 50 does (females), that is a logical herd size to begin with. Of first importance is the health status of the animals, and it is a good idea to buy all your animals from one reputable breeder, if possible. Other important features to check out before purchase are udders, teeth, hooves, and overall body structure. A goat should not be fat. The hair coat should look healthy and shiny. Hooves, teeth, and udders should be sound. Teeth are important for grazing and browsing, and are an indicator of age. • Whatever breed is chosen for the meat goat operation, strict culling will be necessary to maintain a productive and profitable herd. Emphasis on reproduction, growth rate, carcass quality, and ability to thrive in the environment will be rewarded. Adapted from the article by Linda Coffey at http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/PDF/ meatgoat.pdf Our gratitude to Douglas Nkosi (ARC) and Judith Weidmann (Kalahari Kid Corporation) for feedback on the draft chapter.
Goats – mohair For information that is common to all goat enterprises, see the Goats chapter. Refer also to the Fibre Trading chapter in this directory.
1.
Overview
Mohair is one of the rare noble fibres of the world. It is especially suitable for apparel, knitwear, curtaining, upholstery material, socks, shawls and accessories. Angora goats are shorn at least twice a year, and the year is divided between a summer and winter marketing season. Eastern Cape farmers produce nearly all of South Africa’s mohair. Since South Africa’s contribution to world mohair production stands at 54%, Port Elizabeth may rightly be called the mohair capital of the world.
2. Associations involved The different breeder societies are Their website, www.mohair. listed in the Animal Improvement co.za, includes auction and and Breeders Chapter market news, articles, background information and other useful tools. Mohair SA Tel: 041 487 1386 SA Wool and Mohair Buyers
[email protected] Association www.mohair.co.za Tel: 041 484 5252 Mohair SA supports overseas and local manufacturers with market and product development and the promotion of the use of mohair. It promotes the advancement of the entire mohair industry. Mohair SA funds research, training and information.
SA Mohair Growers Association Tel: 049 836 0140
[email protected] South African Textile Industry Export Council Tel: 021 959 4162 www.satiec.co.za
3. Websites and publications • Visit the websites of roleplayers. Go to www.mohair.co.za, www.cmw. co.za and www.bkb.co.za, for example. • A number of publications are available from the Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute (GADI). Find these listed at http:// gadi.agric.za
4. Companies involved Find the “Buyers”, “Processors” and “Manufacturers” menu options on www. mohair.co.za A Dewavrin Freres Tel: 041 484 4443 www.adfsa.com
Border Combing Company – see Samil (Pty) Ltd
ADEF SA Tel: 041 484 4443
Camdeboo Mohair Tel: 041 484 5255 www.camdeboo.com
BKB (Pty) Ltd Tel: 041 503 3013 / 302 www.bkb.co.za
Cape Mohair and Wool (CMW) Tel: 041 406 7500 www.cmw.co.za
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Cape Mohair Ltd Tel: 021 534 4134 www.capemohair.co.za
Mohair Spinners SA (Pty) Ltd Tel: 041 994 7583
Mohair Yarns Cape Mohair Spinners (Pty) Ltd Tel: 041 397 4700 Tel: 041 486 2430/3 www.capmohspin.co.za Momentos of Africa Tel: 041 507 7270 ADEF SA www.momentos.co.za Tel: 041 484 4443 Mosenthals Wool & Mohair SA Dombeya Farm Tel: 041 581 8613 Tel: 021 881 3746 PureCape Elsa Barnard Mohair Carpets Tel: 041 486 1143 Tel: 046 648 2687 www.purecape.co.za www.mohaircarpets.co.za Samil Ikhwezi-Cacadu Angora Goat Tel: 041 486 2430 Project Tel: 049 838 0001 / 083 244 1028 Sanmin & Sanhong Textile www.cz-sm.com Gubb and Inggs Ltd – see Stucken & Company Shuttleworth Weaving Tel: 033 266 6818 Jan Paul Barnard Tel: 042 231 1247 Southseas Mohair Tel: 046 675 1090 Karoo Classics www.southseasmohair.co.za Tel: 021 886 7596 www.karooclassics.co.za Stucken & Company Tel: 041 397 4700 Malusi Fashions www.stucken.co.za Tel: 084 515 1131 www.malusi.co.za Mohair Direct www.mohairdirect.co.uk
5. Local business environment The Mohair South Africa monthly newsletter brings you the latest in the Industry. Find these under the “news” menu option on www.mohair.co.za. Auction results can be found on the same website. • The mohair market has traditionally been heavily influenced by fashion demand, or the lack thereof. This is one of the reasons for the volatility in demand experienced from time to time. Find the latest news in the Mohair SA Newsletters. • There are contradictory elements in justifying efforts to increase mohair production when the market, at certain times, cannot take up the limited volumes currently on offer. Market reaction is often the result of fear of supply rather than only the demand for the end product. As is the case with other natural fibres where production has been falling, rationalisation of processing capacity can be expected. • We are in an era of change in the global market environment, where technological advances and information create new opportunities in terms of marketing alternatives. These developments would require a new approach by producers in terms of involvement in the marketing of their mohair. • The volatility in currency/exchange rate can cause difficulties for the South African Mohair industry.
The Eastern Cape town of Jansenville – located in the geographic heart of Mohair country – has the country’s first mohair museum, thanks to funding from the Mohair Trust, with Mohair SA as project co-ordinator. The museum theme is ‘From the veld to the fibre and the future’. The displays follow a logical sequence of the actual processes from shearing to yarn to end product. Added to which there is a display of historic articles, coupled with an educational experience of the Mohair story. Read more at www.mohair.co.za
6. International business environment • South Africa is the world leader in mohair production and exports over 95% of its total production. Other mohair producing countries of the world include the United State of America, Turkey, Argentina, Australia and Lesotho. Smaller numbers of Angora goat are also found in Mexico, New Zealand, Iran, Chile, Swaziland, Canada, Spain and the UK. However, compared to South Africa, production in these countries, individually, could be regarded as insignificant. • Exporting of mohair takes place mainly to India, Taiwan, Italy, France, South Korea, Japan, China, Germany, the UK and Turkey. Find the latest news in the Mohair SA Newsletters.
7. Farming mohair Find the Classing Standards on www.mohair.co.za. Take the “Growers” and “Classing standards” menu options. • Historically, the Eastern Cape has been the prime Angora farming area in South Africa and today, Angora farming is mainly practiced within a 300km radius of Port Elizabeth. Consequently, the city forms the nucleus of the South African mohair industry. • Advanced breeding and farming techniques in the country ensure consistent availability and fibre quality. To this end, meticulous care is taken in the selection of stock to ensure superior generic breeding material. Because of the increase in fibre diameter as they get older, a small kid would shear about 26 micron mohair which could sell for anything up to R250 per kilogram. At the next sheering, the micron diameters would increase and the selling price would drop. • An ideal herd of goats would obviously have as many animals that are producing the best income in the herds. That would be a herd of breeding ewes, with high fertility that are producing as many kids as possible. To achieve this, one would need a careful breeding policy that concentrates on breeding animals that are suited to the area’s grazing conditions. A good selection of the breeding ewes is important and further to breed or buy good quality rams to use in the breeding herd. • A good breeding programme would be to cull all old animals and poor breeders. Class the young ewes as replacements for the old and poor breeders and make sure you purchase or breed good rams. The ewes need careful attention during kidding time. Once the newborn kids have their first drink of colostrum, they are normally fine. After six months, they’re ready to be shorn. • The technique in sheering an angora goat, is just as important as sheering a wool sheep. Particularly in avoiding double cuts so the length of the fleeces remains constant. Length is an important factor in the sale of mohair. To this end, meticulous care is taken in the selection of stock to ensure superior genetic breeding material.
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New Farmer Information In order to produce top quality mohair, thorough breeding programmes are of vital importance. Breeding programmes are difficult to apply in a communal pastoral system where the veld belongs to the community, as all types of goats run together. During the mating season, this producer will have to tend the goats day and night to avoid crossbreeding. Further challenges to entering the primary mohair industry include: • Sufficient and easily accessible sheltering. Angora goats are very sensitive to drastic weather changes. Usually more than one large shelter has to be erected on different locations on the farm, and this can be costly. • Sufficient shearing and mohair sorting equipment is a prerequisite. • Applicable hair sorting and classing knowledge of both farmer and labourers. Investing in training in shearing and sorting is essential. In order to fully reap the benefits of a deregulated marketing system, the producers must have access to an effective and working infrastructure that includes the free flow and availability of marketing information.
8. Manufacturing and processing mohair The conversion of mohair fibre into a product, such as a garment or a household article, is a lengthy process. It can, however, be grouped into four distinct stages: • • • •
Fibre is cleaned and combed. Fibre is converted into a yarn. Fibre is converted into fabric. The final stage involves converting the fabric into an end product.
Although mohair is processed in very much the same way as wool, it also requires particular attention during certain processes, to ensure that it retains its smooth, lustrous appearance. Since the intricacies and finer details of the processes are a closely guarded secret, the conversion of mohair into end products remains more of an art than a science, both in the home craft industries and in the large industrial mills. Quality remains the highest priority throughout the process of mohair production in South Africa. Fixed standard are also in place to ensure that quality consistency of the raw material can be guaranteed throughout the world. Source: www.agritv.co.za Source: Frans Loots, Mohair SA and the websites mentioned in this chapter. Thanks to Angelo Coppola for feedback on the draft chapter.
Livestock Goat and sheep dairy 1. Overview Sheep and goat milk are a healthy dairy alternative, even if your physical condition is not compromised. They are rich in fats and minerals, and the (very favourable) facts regarding the nutrition value of this milk can be found on websites mentioned in this chapter e.g. www.goats-cheese.co.za, www. indezi.co.za, www.sasheepdairy.co.za and www.sheepdairying.co.uk. The milk can be processed to make cheese, butter, ice cream and other dairy products. This is a niche market.
2. Roleplayers The Dairy chapter in the Agro-processing section includes companies and dairies which process goat milk.
Alpine Goats’ Cheese Tel: 028 423 3112 www.goats-cheese.co.za
Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute (GADI) Tel: 049 842 1113 http://gadi.agric.za
AXXON Tel: 011 837 7177/6/0 Fax: 011 837 3100
[email protected]
Indezi River Cheese Company Tel/fax: 033 234 4795 www.indezi.co.za
Specialist supplier of goat and Kambrokind Guest House / sheep milking equipment and Fransplaas Sheep Cheese Farm Tel: 023 571 1405 feeder yokes
[email protected] [email protected] Belnori Boutique Cheesery Tel: 011 964 3405 La Rochelle Cheese www.belnori.co.za Tel: 023 356 2091
[email protected] Caldecott, Roy Tel: 033 263 2951 Lattaia Goat’s Cheese Tel: 083 535 4341 A dairy goat farmer
[email protected] Cheese Academy Mooiland Cheesery Tel: 082 828 1832 Tel: 056 777 2253 http://cheeseacademy.co.za
[email protected] Dairy Standard Agency (DSA) Ovis Angelica Tel: 012 804 0818 Tel: 082 412 3787 www.dairystandard.co.za
[email protected] www.sasheepdairy.co.za Dairygoat SA Tel: 082 779 4899 Ovis Angelica (formerly Prodwww.dairygoat.co.za Patria Sheep Dairy) has received Dairygoat SA is the national numerous awards for its cheeses. marketing body for goats’ milk. It Read more on the website. also hosts an annual Dairy Goat SA Milk Goats Association Conference in Gauteng. Tel: 051 430 2457 Geluksfontein Goat Cheese Farm SA Milk Sheep Breeder’s Club Tel: 083 619 6980 Tel: 051 713 7091
[email protected] [email protected] www.goatmilk.co.za www.sasheepdairy.co.za Guided tours, training consulting are offered.
and
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SA Stud Book and Animal Improvement Association Tel: 051 410 0900 www.studbook.co.za
University of the Free State Centre for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Tel: 051 401 2163
Livestock
The SA Milk Sheep (a cross between East Friesan and three indigenous breeds) is registered with SA Studbook.
Department Animal, Wildlife and Grassland Sciences Tel: 051 401 2677
Indigenous breeds
Southern African Goat and Sheep Milk Processors Organisation (SAGS) Tel: 082 377 5698
[email protected] Find their webpages off www. studbook.co.za
University of Pretoria Prof Edward Donkin Animal and Wildlife Sciences Tel: 012 420 3271 Wilde and Roare Tel: 083 280 0643 www.wildeandroare.co.za
3. Websites and publications • The websites of roleplayers are an excellent place to start. • Find the archived articles on dairy goats at www.farmersweekly.co.za. • DAFF has Info Paks entitled Dairy goats: milk production and Starting a dairy goat enterprise. Both can be viewed at www.daff.gov.za (take the Publications option). • Raising Dairy Goats by Jerry Belanger is available from Kejafa Knowledge Works at www.kejafa.co.za. They can also be contacted at 014 577 0005. • Easy-to-understand “Infotoons ”are available on the subject Preparing Fresh Goat’s Milk. Visit the AGIS website – www.agis.agric.za – and take the AGIS, Skills Development and eFarmer options. • The British Sheep Dairying Association – www.sheepdairying.com • Practical Sheep Dairying by Olivia Mills • Find the general goat publications in the Goats chapter. General sheep publications can be found in the Sheep chapter.
4. Local business environment Find the notes on dairy goat farming on www.dairygoat.co.za. Expert advice about the regulations governing safe milk production can be obtained from the Dairy Standard Agency (details under heading 2). The case for dairy sheep: • Sheep is a triple purpose species, yielding wool, mutton and milk. • You can keep up to four times as many sheep per hectare as cattle, and they reproduce faster than other species. • Cattle take a long time to produce saleable offspring. Most goat breeds are seasonal breeders and will kid only once a year. But sheep can reproduce up to three times in two years. Milk sheep are prolific breeders. • The SA Milk Sheep has a lactation period of six months (other sheep – three months). • The SA Milk Sheep gives up to four litres a day. • The wool is strong – 30 micron. • The ewes are productive: twins and triplets are the norm. Maternal instincts are excellent. • The carcass quality of slaughter lambs is very good and has a good spreading of fat. The sheep are relatively big, ewes weighing 70 – 75 kg. Source: Elmarie van Aswegen
1. Overview South Africa has a variety of genetically diverse breeds of livestock that have played a major role in the social, cultural and economic history of the country. These include breeds of cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, poultry and equines that have adapted over centuries to a range of natural and socio cultural environments. Goats and sheep were introduced around 200 AD and recent evidence suggests that the Sanga cattle breeds of southern Africa were domesticated from Bos primiginius, the aurochs, in the area now occupied by the Sahara desert during a wetter period. Dispersal with nomadic owners brought the cattle to the southern part of the continent where they arrived on the northern borders of the South Africa around 700 AD. The origin of chicken and pig breeds is less clear and could have been influenced by early introductions from early European settlers. Over the past 400 years, numbers and types of indigenous breeds in southern Africa have been declining at an alarming rate – largely as a result of indiscriminate crossbreeding and replacement with introduced exotic breeds.
The value of indigenous livestock During their protracted journey from the north of the continent, the livestock adapted to a variety of biomes. Most of the areas had periodic droughts, seasonal dry periods, nutritional shortages and an array of parasites and diseases. Adaptation to these conditions made these animals hardy and well suited to the harsh South African environment where they can survive without additional feed or medication. This makes them a viable alternative to imported breeds that have not acquired these adaptive traits. In addition, parasites and diseases are showing an increasing resistance to drugs which makes the natural tolerance of indigenous breeds all the more valuable.
The perception problem The smaller frame and lack of uniform colour of indigenous livestock breeds led the colonial settlers of South Africa to believe that indigenous breeds were inferior when compared to European breeds. Recent scientific evaluations of indigenous livestock has shown that, far from being inferior, the animals produce more than exotic breeds under the low maintenance conditions that are typically found in the marginal areas of the country.
Conservation through sustainable use Conservation has never been effective where people are hungry. This has made it difficult to protect small nucleus herds and flocks in order to maintain purebred indigenous livestock breeds. A recent conservation approach is one of sustainable use that includes the commercialisation of indigenous breeds and the marketing of products such as hides and meat in niche markets. In South Africa, this strategy has proved successful with breeds such as the Nguni, Afrikaner and Drakensberger cattle, the Dorper sheep and the Boer goat. The establishment of markets and the development of products for indigenous livestock has the potential to mushroom in the future. Source: Jenny Bester, previously of the ARC and Keith Ramsay, DAFF (adapted)
2. Breeds of indigenous and locally developed (Landrace) livestock Indigenous breeds have maintained their adaptive traits and in their natural environment can tolerate heat, drought, and an array of parasites and tickborne diseases. In traditional extensive systems, cattle are used for beef,
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beef, milk and hide production, as a form of security, for religious ceremonies and as fuel and floor covering. Sheep and goats are predominantly used for their meat (unlike European breeds, indigenous breeds are not used for wool production as they have hair rather than wool). Sheep and goats are also used as a form of security. Purebred indigenous pig breeds are becoming increasingly scarce due to crossbreeding with commercialised lines; the same is true of chicken breeds. Both species have the potential of being exploited for commercial production but only very limited research has taken place and the possibilities remain to be explored. The following are indigenous and locally developed breeds: Cattle
Afrikaner, Bonsmara, Drakensberger, Hugenot, Nguni (Venda, Pedi, Royla Nguni, Tswana and Shangaan ecotypes), Sanganer and Tuli
Pig
Kolbroek, Windsnyer
Sheep
Afrino, Damara, Dohne Merino, Dormer, Dorper, Izimvu (Zulu), Namaqua Afrikaner, Pedi, Persian (Blackhead or Redhead), Ronderrib Afrikaner (gladde- or Blinkhaar), Ronderrib Afrikaner (steekhaar), South African Mutton Merino, Speckled Persian (Black or Red), Vandor and Van Rooy
Goat
Improved Boer Goat, Kalahari Red Goat, Savanna Goat, Unimproved Veld Goat
Poultry
Boschvelder, Naked Neck, Ovambo, Potchefstroom Koekoeks, Venda
Horse
Basotho pony, Kaapse Boerperd (Cape Boer Horse), Namib Horse, Nooitgedachter, South African Boerperd
Another locally developed breed is the South African Black Ostrich. Photographs and a description of some of these indigenous breeds are given on the ARC website. Visit www.arc.agric.za
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Directorate: Animal and Aqua Production Tel: 012 319 7662
[email protected]
Registrar: Joel M Mamabolo Tel: 012 319 7424/33
[email protected]
Directorate: Genetic Resource National Co-ordinator of Farm Management Animal Genetic Resources Julian Jafta Keith Ramsay Tel: 012 319 6024 Tel: 012 319 7448
[email protected] [email protected]
South Africa’s landrace breeds are part of our national heritage and should be marketed with pride and with a guarantee on genetic purity and soundness. With this in mind, legislation has been passed to monitor and certify exports of genetic material of South African landrace breeds. This will be successful if breed societies, registering authorities, service providers and traders in farm animal genetic material work together to provide the necessary certification on positive identification, purity, pedigrees and performance.
4. Roleplayers Africanis Society of Southern Africa Johan Gallant Tel: 033 343 2699 www.africanis.co.za
Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute Tel: 049 842 1113 Fax: 049 842 4352 http://gadi.agric.za
‘Africanis’ is an umbrella name for the aboriginal or native subequatorial African dogs. The Africanis Society of Southern Africa has made it its goal to ‘conserve’ the Africanis or native African dog as a ‘land race’.
Nguni Cattle Breeders Society Tel: 051 448 7303 www.ngunicattle.info Nguni cattle, long the mainstay of Zulu culture, are possibly the most beautiful cattle in the world, with their variously patterned and multicoloured hides everywhere in demand. The breed is “widely acknowledged to be the outstanding beef breed for optimal production under harsh African conditions”.
The Agricultural Research Council at Irene has been involved with indigenous and locally developed breeds for many years. It provides farmers, large and small, with the technologies and information to help them feed the PELUM South Africa nation. They provide research as Tel: 033 260 6173/5094 Michael Malinga – 072 561 9239 well as training courses. www.pelumrd.org • Dr M Scholtz (Nguni Cattle specialist) Tel: 012 672 9119
[email protected] • Leon Kruger (Small stock specialist) Tel: 012 672 9169
[email protected] Bandiri Poultry Solutions Jan Grobbelaar – 084 567 8975
[email protected] The Farm Animal Conservation Trust (FACT) no longer exists. Find the South African Society of Animal Science entry. The contact person there was involved with FACT.
The PELUM Association is a regional network of over 200 civil society organisations in east, central and southern Africa. Its focus on food sovereignty includes traditional and indigenous crops and breeds. There is a branch of the South African Society of Animal Science – the Developing Areas Animal Interest Group – which focuses on all indigenous species in southern Africa. Contact Heleen Els for details. Tel: 012 529 8463 Fax: 012 529 8468 Email: heleen.
[email protected]
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SA Stud Book and Animal Improvement Association Tel: 051 410 0900
[email protected] www.studbook.co.za
University of Fort Hare Dr Vorster Muchenje Tel: 040 602 2059
[email protected] www.ufh.ac.za
SA Studbook keeps records of the pedigrees and performance of registered livestock and has the mandate of granting membership to breeders’ societies. Amongst its many other roles it promotes the breeding and genetic improvement of the production potential of registered animals, renders technical and advisory services and promotes the export of genetic material. It is through Studbook that indigenous breeds such as the Nguni have been registered and commercialised.
Results of research into Ngunis have been published in the world’s leading animal production, animal health and food science journals. The Nguni is “attracting international attention for its resistance to ticks and tick-bourne diseases, high reproductive performance, good walking and foraging ability and low maintenance requirements acquired through centuries of natural selection”. Find the article “Ngunis have what it takes”, printed in July 2009 on www. farmersweekly.co.za.
Several livestock breeders from at Contact the Agricultural Information least eight neighbouring countries Centre – 040 602 2403 – for details are currently participating in the of the Nguni Cattle Project. INTERGIS-database. University of the Free State Stellenbosch University Centre for Sustainable Agriculture Prof Kennedy Dzama and Rural Development Tel: 021 808 4737 Tel: 051 401 2163
[email protected] [email protected] The Boerperd and Boerperd cross www.ufs.ac.za/censard breed horses used by Thornview Ranch are an indigenous breed Department of Zoology and dating back to the 1800s. Contact Entomology Johan Steyn at 072 594 4626 or Prof JG van As – 051 401 2427 email
[email protected] Prof S Louw – 051 401 9219 Find details of the following Breeder’s Societies in the Animal Improvement and Breeders chapter. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Afrikaner Cattle Breeders’ Society of SA Afrino Sheep Breeders’ Society of SA Bonsmara SA Damara Sheep Breeders’ Society of SA Dohné Sheep Breeders’ Society of SA Dormer Sheep Breeders’ society of SA Dorper sheep Breeders’ Society Drakensberger Cattle Breeders Society Kalahari Red Namaqua Afrikaner c/o Grootfontein Small Stock Institute Nguni Cattle Breeders Association Pedi Club of SA SA Boer Goat Breeders’ Society Savanna Goat Breeders’ Society of SA Tuli Cattle Breeders’ Society of SA Vandor Sheep Breeders’ Society The Van Rooy Sheep Breeders’ Society
5. Websites and publications • Landrace breeds: South Africa’s Indigenous and Locally developed Farm Animals. Compiled and edited by: K Ramsay, L Harris & A Kotzé. Published by: Farm Animal Conservation Trust. ISBN 0-620-25493-9. This publication combines information on the origin of breeds, general descriptions, outstanding qualities and performance data. Phone 012 529 8463, email
[email protected]. • The Indigenous Sheep and Goat Breeds of South Africa. Quentin Campbell. Published by Dreyer Printers and Publishers. Available from The Animal Production Institute: Livestock Business Division • Commercialisation of indigenous goat production and products in South Africa. Edited: M Roets. Published by the Advisory Bureau for Development (Pty) Ltd.
• Field Guide of South African Farm Animal Genetic Resources. A field guide containing a summary of existing indigenous livestock breeds. Exotic breeds having the most marked influence on landrace breeds are included to assist in the identification of crossbred animals. Listed are nine cattle, thirteen sheep, four goat, two pig, five chicken and five equine breeds and their known varieties and ecotypes. Contact the ARC (Irene) at 012 672 9030. • The Story of the African Dog University of KwaZulu-Natal Press ISBN 1-86914-024-9. • Find notes on indigenous breeds at www.arc.agric.za (take the “Divisions” option) • About 1000 of the 6400 recognised breeds of farm animals worldwide became extinct during the last 100 years, and 300 of these alone during the last two decades! The Food and Agriculture Organisation warns that another 2000 breeds are at stake if no countermeasures for their conservation are taken. Find the Data base: Domesticated Animal Diversity Information System – http://dad.fao.org • Indigenous breeds, local communities. www.mamud.com/indigenous_ breeds.htm • Breeds of Livestock – www.ansi.okstate.edu/breeds • RBI (Rare Breeds International) – www.rarebreedsinternational.org
6. Local business environment Global concern on the loss of diversity of farm animal genetic resources, along with a growing awareness of the real value of adapted minimum care breeds for sustainable animal agriculture off natural vegetation, has led to the emergence of a world market for these breeds. The international popularity of the South African Boer goat, Dorper sheep and Bonsmara cattle breeds are typical examples of this trend. Another notable example of an overlooked indigenous breed that proved to hold its own under modern production methods is the Nguni breed in South Africa. A tremendous potential lies in the development of livestock products. Examples are the hide of the attractively patterned Nguni cattle, the fine glove leather of the indigenous sheep and goat breeds and branded organic meat products. Even the lowly Kolbroek pig found in the rural areas has potential for lard and pork production in a country that is a net importer of lard. Innovative marketing and the investigation of niche markets will develop this potential. Here assistance is required from the government and/or industry. Products from indigenous breeds would also allow poor communities to exploit a gap in the market. The raising of public awareness is of crucial concern in any management plan for the utilisation of indigenous livestock breeds. The breeds are useful and constitute a valuable contribution to the biodiversity of the country.
7. International business environment Refer to www.rarebredsinternational.org, website of Rare Breeds International (RBI)
Native breeds are increasingly being supplanted by high-yield Western farm animals, which may be less well able to adapt to their new environment in times of drought or disease, found a joint report by International Livestock Research Institute and the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) on the diversity of farm animals in 169 countries. The “Western” breeds may offer high volumes of meat, milk and eggs, but the researchers warn that the growing reliance on a handful of farm animal species is causing the loss on average of one livestock breed every month in developing countries. And over the longer term, the imported breeds may not cope with unpredictable environmental change or outbreaks of indigenous disease. Source: The article “Number of native livestock breeds declining” at www.allaboutfeed. net
Sources for this chapter: Keith Ramsay (DAFF), Jenny Bester (previously ARC), www.arc.agric.za and the other mentioned websites.
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2. Predators and the stock farmer
Livestock Livestock To be read along with the relevant livestock chapters
1. Overview Statistics for herd composition, slaughterings etc can be found on www.daff. gov.za – take the “Publications” and “Statistical Information” menu options. Also find the latest quarterly economic overview. The National Livestock Strategy (NLS) put into perspective the current and future importance of the sector, highlighting its contribution to the national economy, its comparative role in agriculture, food security and rural development and its contribution to the food and fibre basket. The following is of particular significance: • The sector currently accounts for more than 40% of the total value of agriculture. • Because the sector is largely natural resource based and because of major limitations to crop cultivation, 80% of the agriculture land is occupied by livestock enterprises; as a consequence the bulk of increased production and rural development will have to come from this sector. • From a food and income security point of view animal agriculture is the primary income generator in the majority of rural areas domestically and in the developing world, with projections indicating that by 2020 it will be the most important contributor to sustenance, poverty relief and agribusiness development. • Animal food products are a major contributor to a balanced diet because of the high biological value of their protein and significant quantities of high bioavailable minerals and vitamins; in addition, animal fibre products quantitatively contribute significantly to the clothing, leather, housing and decorative industries. • Livestock earnings amount to about 10% of agricultural exports and through import plays a significant role in stabilizing the economies of SADC countries. • The sector is a major employer and employment generator in the economy with some 425000 employees and 2125000 dependant on the sector for their livelihood. • Through backward and forward linkages to e.g. the food industry the contribution of agriculture to the national economy increases to about 30%, with livestock production accounting for more than a third. Source: Challenges for the animal science industries and profession – a strategic perspective, a paper by Dr Heinz Meissner
We might adapt the philosopher’s quote to read, “I FEEL therefore I am”, to increase an awareness of livestock – or living stock. An awareness of animals as sentient beings comes out strongly in the five freedoms espoused by the NSPCA’s Farm Animal Unit: • • • • •
freedom from thirst, hunger and malnutrition freedom from discomfort freedom from pain, injury or disease freedom to express normal behaviour freedom from fear and distress
How far the science of animal husbandry has evolved has everything to do with how well we blend profitable livestock farming with those listed freedoms.
The commercial livestock industry has placed a value of up to R1.4 billion on the stock it loses annually to predators, particularly to jackal and caracal. This figure is “four times the number of animals lost to stock theft” (Farmer’s Weekly, 3 July 2009 p14). See the Wildlife on Farms chapter of this directory.
3. Stock theft Relevant legislation here is the Stock Theft Act 1959 (Act no. 57 of 1959). Find the notes about stock theft at on www.agriwiki.co.za and www.rpo. co.za Stock-theft hampers the profitability of the stock farmer. It also interferes with the Government’s land reforming process and the empowering of the emerging farmers. For each stock-theft incident at a commercial farm, three similar incidents take place amongst emerging farmers. What makes it worse is that many emerging farmers suffer a total loss of stock – kraals are literally emptied. Stock theft has become a business and there are clear indications of syndicate involvement. The days when a sizable portion of stock theft was ascribed to “pot slaughtering” are long gone. Although South Africa has always been a nett importer of red meat, stock theft has a detrimental effect on the industry and on agriculture in general. Solving the problem will make a huge contribution to the country’s selfsufficiency. The National Stock-theft Forum was founded soon after the birth of democracy in South Africa and consists of representatives from: Red Meat Producers’ Organisation, Red Meat Abattoir Association, SA Studbook Association, National Woolgrowers’ Association, National Emergent Red Meat Producers’ Organisation, Department of Agriculture and Land Affairs, Department of Correctional Services, National Prosecuting Authority and the SA Police Services. The National Stock-theft Forum is supported by Provincial Stock-theft Forums in each province. Recommendations from the National Stock-theft Forum: • All vacant posts in the stock-theft units must be filled and capacity issues should be resolved. • Create permanent training capacity for training and re-training of prosecutors and members of the stock-theft units. • Create mobile reaction units which can on short notice be involved in specific operations. • Finalise the Pounds Act as soon as possible. • Legislation must be amended to create heavier sentences. • The process of bail and parole for stock thieves must be reviewed. • SAPS members of Stock-theft units, who render service of a high order, could be given incentives for their work in inaccessible areas under very difficult working conditions. • The agriculture department could help mark or brand livestock in the emerging sector. For more or updated information, contact Gerhard Schutte at 012 348 1933 or by email
[email protected] SA Police Service The Stock-Theft Unit: National Tel: 012 393 1196/7 Fax: 012 393 1548
[email protected] A comprehensive document – Hints for the Prevention of Stock Theft – is available from the National Stock Theft Unit. It will help livestock owners to minimise their vulnerability, and to successfully lay charges against stock thieves.
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4. Animal identification The Animal Identification Act (Act No. 6 of 2002) replaced the old Livestock Brands Act (Act No. 87 of 1962). • It is compulsory to mark all cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. • A permanent legal mark is the first line of defence against stock theft. • The legislation in South Africa provides for an effective animal identification system A booklet Animal Identification in terms of Animal Identification Act (Act No. 6 of 2002) sets out information like how to register an identification mark, what is not included as an identification mark, alternative method of identification, parts on which animals must be identified etc This is done in a clear, attractive, colorful and easy-to-understand way. For a copy, contact the Resource Centre at the Department of Agriculture – 012 319 4171. Find the electronic copy on www.daff.gov.za. The Registrar of Animal Identification Tel: 012 319 7431/2/3
[email protected] Private Bag X138, Pretoria 0001
6. Female reproductive data of our main farm animals Animal
Duration of oestrus cycle
Duration of heat
Timing of ovulation
Duration of gestation
Cattle
18-24 days
6-24 hours
6-14 hours after oestrus
278-290 days
Sheep and Goats
16-18 days
24-48 hours
12-24 hours before end of oestrus
144-152 days
Pigs
19-22 days
18-48 hours
at end of oestrus
114-120 days
Horses
18-24 days
4-9 days
36-48 hours before end of oestrus
320-370 days
Source: Dr Reinette Snyman, Cape Penisular University of Technology
The LIDCAT™ LIVESTOCK IDENTIFICATION is an irrefutable identification system for animals. A biological sample is collected from individual animals and stored under ideal conditions. In the case of theft or a dispute over parentage, the system can be used to identify the animal beyond doubt and the sample that has been stored can be used for comparison with an animal (or animal tissue such as blood or meat) recovered by the SAPS Stock Theft Units. The contact person is Ben Greyling at 012 672 9393.
7. Estimating the water required for livestock
See the Precision Livestock Farming chapter for other roleplayers involved with animal identification.
Source: Southern Cross Industries (see www.southx.co.za) and the Handbook for Farmers in South Africa. Government Printers. 1937.
5. Livestock Codes of Conduct South African Bureau of Standards Standards Information Centre Tel: 012 428 6666 www.satenca.co.za Together with the different livestock groups, the following Codes of Practice have been drawn up: 1. South African Poultry Association Code of Practice 2. Code for Feedlots 3. Code of Practice for the Handling of Livestock at Saleyards and Vending sites 4. Duties and Functions of Abattoir Managers 5. A Guideline for the use of Prodders and Stunning Devices in Abattoirs 6. Code of Practice for the Transport and Handling of Animals 7. Trade Code: Ostrich Feathers 8. Code of Practice for the Transport, Handling and Slaughter of Ostriches 9. South African Code for the Welfare of Pigs These Codes are the minimum requirements for the relevant sectors e.g. the poultry, feedlot etc sectors. Other Codes are still under discussion. Interested parties can obtain copies of these codes and other pending codes from SABS or from the NSPCA website www.nspca.co.za. The NSPCA continues to research and promote continued upgrading of all the laws and codes pertaining to Animal Welfare.
To estimate the quantity of water required DAILY per animal, allow: • 6,5 litres per head of sheep • 45 litres per head of cattle or horses • 90 litres per head of dairy cattle.
• 9 litres per pig • 18 litres per hundred birds (poultry)
8. General livestock associations Each chapter in this section gives details of relevant associations, companies and other roleplayers. Associations mentioned here have a more general relevance to the livestock industry. Livestock Animal Welfare Association Tel: 012 460 9216 Livestock Welfare Co-ordinating Committee (LWCC) Tel: 012 807 1367 www.redmeatsa.co.za National Council of SPCAs Farm Animal Unit Tel: 011 907 3590/1/2 www.nspca.org.za Established in 1970 this unit has grown not only in its knowledge of livestock but also in its duties. Initially formed to ensure the welfare of food animals at the abattoirs throughout South Africa, the unit now inspects, researches, educates, and promotes the welfare of all animals that are farmed. The unit performs many functions: • Inspections. Law enforcement – Educate and then prosecute. • Education. Carried out in indigent communities at arranged outreach programs throughout the country.
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• Assisting. Practical solutions to assist farmers and at the same time uplifting the welfare of animals. • Legislation. To promote, research, initiate amendments, or new legislation to enhance animal welfare. • Training. The unit undertakes external workshops to 1. Agricultural Departments within the Correctional Services throughout South Africa. 2. Also lectures at the Stock Theft Course on Current legislation. 3. Hands on training presented to our inspectors at local societies throughout South Africa. • Reactive. Reacts and deals with accidents involving livestock, or disaster situations. Small Scale Farmers An increasing number of Government and internationally sponsored small scale individual and co-operative farming projects as well as large commercial projects for previously disadvantaged people are being established in commercial farming areas. The NSPCA has worked reactively and pro-actively on such projects, trying to establish where they are and visiting to make contact, give guidance and monitor. Poor administration or ignorance can lead to considerable suffering of animals and deaths. Veterinary Services Back-Up South Africa is vast. Population and services tend to be focused on the main urbanised areas, with the affect that immense areas are bereft of adequate veterinary services. These tend to be the indigent, rural areas. The State Veterinary Services do not exist in certain (usually remote and impoverished) areas and in other areas, they are inadequate to cope. This is why the NSPCA has taken on the role of outreach – to provide a veterinary service back-up. Specific outreach programmes and projects are planned and undertaken, in addition to any reactive or response work that may be required. The farm animal unit of the National Council of SPCAs performs various workshops and lectures to relevant state departments to remind and enlighten teaching, research or production facilities on current animal welfare trends, legislation, moral and social responsibilities. Some of the areas where current workshops / lectures are performed are Correctional Services, Agriculture Departments throughout the country, stock theft detective course and 3rd year veterinary students. We hope to expand these workshops to include Animal Health Technicians, Agricultural Colleges and local S.A. Police Services. If other organisations, departments, educational facilities wish to carry out similar workshops, please contact the NSPCA via email on nspca@nspca. co.za.
9. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Find contact details and information on all directorates under the “Divisions” option at www.daff.gov.za The guidelines for Legal identification marks can be found at www.daff. gov.za. The Animal Identification Act, 2002 (Act no.6 of 2002) makes it compulsory for all livestock owners to apply for a registered identification mark from the registrar of Animal identification. Call 012 319 7431/2/3 for assistance.
Directorate: Animal Health Tel: 012 319 7456
[email protected]
Joel M Mamabolo (Registrar) Tel: 012 319 7424 / 33
[email protected]
Directorate: Animal Production Tel: 012 319 7662
[email protected] The publication Livestock Development Strategy for South Africa, compiled by the Animal and Aquaculture Production Directorate at the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries is compulsory reading for anyone wishing for an introduction to the livestock sector, or to understand the issues and potential involved. Find it on www.daff.gov.za (take the “Publications” and “General publications” options).
10. Featured roleplayers Asgisa Eastern Cape (Pty) Ltd Tel: 043 531 0103 http://asgisa-ec.co.za AXXON Tel: 011 837 7177/6/0 Fax: 011 837 3100
Onderstepoort Biological Products Tel: 012 522 1500 www.OBPvaccines.co.za
Plantkor Tel: 036 468 1309
[email protected] Supplier of all types of I.D. www.plantkor.co.za devices from Electronic ear tags/ intraruminal boluses/sub-dermal Plantkor manufactures and supplies chips, ankle/neck bands and visual high quality equipment to the pig tags and leg-/neck bands industry of Africa. The Brangus Cattle Breeders Tel: 051 444 1144 www.brangus.org.za
Santa Gertrudis Cattle Breeders Tel: 051 448 0318 www.santagertrudis.co.za
Braunvieh SA Tel: 051 410 0950 www.braunviehsa.co.za
SA Braford Tel: 051 448 0603 www.braford.org.za
Cape Wools SA Tel: 041 484 4301 www.capewools.co.za
South African Pork Producers Organisation (SAPPO) Tel: 012 361 3920 Fax: 012 361 4069 www.sapork.com
DEN VET Tel: 033 345 1093 www.denvet.co.za “Solving your animal health problems” HOTSURE Tel: 0861 HOTSURE (468 787) Fax: 086 640 5744
[email protected] www.hotsure.co.za
TNH Wildlife Tel: 082 890 9993 / 074 114 8651 Fax: 086 519 0124 www.tnhwildlife.com
Fencing materials, wildlife and electric fence installations, solar electricity, GIS mapping and the supply and application of herbicides are some of the animal and wildlife management services offered by Biotelemetry solutions for proactive risk management and TNH. precision farming TOPIGS SA Tel: 012 348 3676 Kanhym Estates
[email protected] Tel: 013 249 7964 www.kanhym.co.za TOPIGS SA supports clients Nguni Cattle Breeders Society with genetics, feeding, disease prevention, housing, management Tel: 051 448 7303 and artificial insemination. www.ngunicattle.info
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11. Training and research See the Agricultural education and training chapter, as well as the individual livestock chapters.
Animal husbandry training is included in the diplomas as well as in short courses offered by Agricultural Colleges. Examples of some short courses presented at Cedara in KwaZulu-Natal are: poultry production, dairy production (basic); small-scale dairying; beekeeping (also presented in isiZulu); goat production; pig production; and dairy processing. Madzivhandila College course Livestock management. Find details of all Agricultural Colleges in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter. AgriSETA-accredited training providers do courses in livestock production. An example is Skills for Africa whose courses have included broiler, cattle and small stock production. Find details of this provider and of all other providers, in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter.
Included in the Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy (BFAP) baseline publication are analyses of the livestock sector. The baseline is a benchmark of what could happen under a particular set of assumptions. Scenarios and risk analyses, not included in the baseline, are prepared as confidential reports for individual clients. Call 012 420 4583/2 or visit www.bfap.co.za The Red Meat Research and Development Trust (RMRDT) was instituted to fund specific research and development projects concerned with red meat production processes and products deriving from red meat producing livestock. Read more at www. redmeatsa.co.za. The South African Society for Animal Science (SASAS) – www.sasas.co.za – is an association of animal scientists who have the following common objective: to practice and report on animal agriculture based on science. The website contains scientific papers and much more.
The ARC-Livestock Business Division aims “to broaden access to market opportunity, increase efficiency of the livestockproduction chain, and improve product quality and safety through Animal Husbandry training is research and development included in training offered by Universities and Universities of support”. Technology. For the complete list, Call 012 672 9153 for information consult the Agricultural Education on training courses. These and Training chapter. include: Beef cattle management, Meat cuts and processing, Small stock management, Pig artificial insemination, Poultry production and Pig production. Details can also be found at www.arc.agric.za.
12. Websites and publications • Find the numerous livestock publications on www.daff.gov.za. The Directorate Animal and Aquaculture Production has compiled many helpful publications and policy documents including the Livestock Development Strategy for South Africa. Find the Info Paks, too, which cover legal identification marks, auctioning, animal health topics and more. • Find the “Livestock” option at www.agriwiki.co.za. Find notes on the different breeds, animal health and more. • Find the “Diere” menu option under “Bedrywe” at www.landbou.com, the electronic arm of the Afrikaans agricultural weekly Landbouweekblad. Services on the website include a veterinary question and answer column and an SMS notification of livestock auction prices.
• The English agricultural weekly publication Farmer’s Weekly regularly covers livestock issues. Find archived material at www.farmersweekly. co.za • A number of livestock publications are available from Kejafa Knowledge Works. Visit www.kejafa.co.za or phone 014 577 0005.
13. International business environment Veterinary Import-Export Authority is consulting service pertaining to the international movement of animals and animal products. An inspection service is offered. They compile the documents, take these through the various departments. Where the export of live animals for poverty allieviation / developmental projects is concerned, they offer some training too (so that the beneficiaries are not left unsupported). Contact Dr Adéle Fau at 012 361 3116. Find the Info Paks Livestock: Procedures for the export of fresh meat from South Africa and Livestock: Import requirements for fresh meat on the Department of Agriculture’s website: www.daff.gov.za (take the “Publications” menu option). There is also a guide to exporting animals on www.mbendi.co.za/ export/sa/10. These notes cover Animal products (meat, eggs etc) as well as live animals. www.cites.org – Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. World Association for Animal Production (WAAP) – www.waap.it The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) publications site offers detailed bibliographic data of their latest publications. Topics included are crop-livestock systems, ruminant genetics, health and feed resources, and strengthening collaboration with national agricultural research systems. www.ilri.cgiar.org www.cgiar.org – publications Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is an international agreement between governments designed to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. Visit www.cites.org Animal rights groupings such as the International Organisation for Animal Protection (OIPA) – www.oipa.org. This is a Non Governmental Organisation affiliated to the UN Department of Public Information since 1992. Find out about the global campaign to end unnecessary long distance transport of live animals at www.handlewithcare.tv (“transport meat on the hook, not on the hoof”).
14. A few ideas for free range animals (smallscale farming) Free range, stress free animals living on a healthy diet will go a long way to make your operation profitable. Plant pastures with nutritious grass. Consider the age old favourites like kikuyu, rye grass, lucerne etc. Plant more trees for fodder and shelter. Like fruit trees, leuceana trees, karee trees etc. Improve your veld conditions. Look at what the natural veld has an abundance of sweet grasses like rye, love grass, etc. and re-seed. Fence with sturdy fences so that your stock is unable to get out of an area or off your farm. You have to contend with thieves, predators and dogs that attack stock. Fence in an area relatively close to your house to deter stock theft and you may be lucky enough to hear the predators or dogs should they attack the animals. You will sleep more peacefully.
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Shelters can be a choice of your own. Individual pens, a communal pen whichever suits your requirements and your pocket. Stock can be camped together during the night; you will need to have a big enough area for them to sleep in. The different species do not sleep together; they separate into their respective herds at night. The alternative is separate camps for the cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and horses. When any animal is about to give birth, separate the mother from all the other stock. New-born babies need shelter and warmth. Keep mom and the new-born apart from the herd for two to three days so that the mother can recover from the exhausting birth process (in peace) and the baby can gather strength to face an inquisitive herd. Sick animals need shelter and warmth. Birth pens and your sick bay must be separate and on opposite sides in any camp. These facilities must never be near to each other. Free-range pigs eat anything. The list includes chicks and chickens; any new born babies from goats, sheep, cattle, etc. To prevent such mishaps from occurring ensure the pigs get a supplement of a balanced feed. Pigs cannot survive only on grass or mielies. If a pig is not fed a balanced diet you will eventually notice your number of free-range chickens dwindling. Always separate pigs from any livestock about to give birth. Free-range chickens keep the yard clean. They eat all the insects they can find and they clean up feed wasted by the other livestock. Dung heaps are scratched apart searching for insects that may be breeding therein. Dispersing cowpats inhibits fly larvae from breeding into annoying adults. The spread of manure benefits a large area of ground and no big pats or bundles are all over for you to walk into at the most inconvenient moment. Feed Chicken manure and all other biodegradable wastage to earthworms. Feed earthworms to chickens. The casts go back into the ground to feed the ground, no need to buy fertilisers. Natural fertilisers will encourage healthy plants. Less pesticides to get our vegetables to grow. Never compromise on the feed. The allocated daily balance diet from a bag and good grazing should never be veered from. This is the backbone of production The people that work for or with you should be reliable and have the welfare of the animals at heart. They must be alert to the health of the animals. If something is amiss they should notice it immediately. They should have a basic knowledge of how to cope should an emergency arise. The cost of doctoring a sick animal is cheaper than a dead animal. Source: Joanne Vosloo in an email to the National Agricultural Directory team. Joanne has farmed “with everything except ostriches” for 25 years. Contact her at 083 350 8555
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Other:
Livestock Ostriches 1. Overview • More than seven million years ago ostriches migrated across Africa. These birds became a source of food for the San people and a popular theme for their rock paintings. The San were not the only ones who found these birds fascinating: detailed pictures of ostriches have also been found in ancient Egyptian tombs, Roman generals and their wives wore their beautiful plumes during state functions and Arabs hunted the bird for sport. • The largest concentration of ostriches in the world is found in Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape. South Africa accounts for 70 % of the ostriches slaughtered in the world and has a 70 % stake in the worldwide ostrich population. Globally ostrich meat is regarded as high quality red meat due to the fact that it is low in cholesterol and fat, versatile and tasty. There are six EU approved and registered export abattoirs and some 600 export registered ostrich farms. About 95 percent of the meat slaughtered is being exported – mainly to Europe. An awareness of (and compliance with) the food safety and animal health regulations of the European Union is thus necessary. • Today, ostrich meat, leather, feathers, eggs and a great variety of ostrich curios and gifts are available all over the world. Durable feathers are used in feather dusters and the more colourful and attractive ones in stage productions, carnivals, as fashion accessories and for stylish garments. The Ostrich meat, leather and feathers contribute a staggering R2 billion annually in foreign revenue to the country’s economy. 42% of this comes from leather, 55% meat and 3% feathers. This contribution per product has changed over the past two years due to the strengthening of the Euro against the US Dollar as meat is being paid for in Euro’s and leather in US Dollars.
2. Associations involved SA Ostrich Business Chamber (SAOBC) Tel: 044 272 3336 www.ostrichsa.co.za
National Ostrich Processors of SA (NOPSA) Tel: 044 272 3336 www.nopsa.com
SA Ostrich Producers Organisation (SAOO) Tel: 044 272 3336
Ostrich Breeders’ Society of South Africa Tel: 044 272 6077 / 7314
[email protected]
The SA Ostrich Producers Organisation (SAOO) and the National Ostrich Processors of SA (NOPSA) are the two main representative bodies and together they form the SA Ostrich Business Chamber (SAOBC). The mission of the SAOBC is to promote a sustainable, economically viable ostrich industry in South Africa through the participation of stake holders. There are Codes of Practice pertaining to the breeding and rearing of ostriches. These Codes apply to anyone keeping ostriches for any reason. Farms and abattoirs are regularly inspected to ensure welfare and compliance with EU standards is maintained to a high standard.
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Find information on all directorates at www.daff.gov.za • Directorate: Animal Production – 012 319 7662 / 561 • Directorate: Animal Health – Tel: 012 319 7456 •Directorate: Marketing – Tel: 012 319 8455 / 6450
The National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) Schalk Burger Tel: 012 341 1115
Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture Dr L Mrwebi Tel: 040 609 3548
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Export Council Secretariat Phina Mashilo Tel: 012 394 1433
Northern Cape Department of Agriculture Dr R Moerane Tel: 053 838 9112/8
Western Cape Department of Agriculture (Elsenburg) Dr G Msiza Tel: 021 808 5111/ 021 808 5002 www.elsenburg.com
4. Training and research • Research is conducted on all factors influencing commercial farming as well as the welfare of the animals. A formal agreement exists between the SAOBC and the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, which results in some 35 research projects. The research results assist farmers with decision-making. Prof Tertius Brand and Prof Schalk Cloete are two specialist researchers. Call 021 808 5111. • Oudtshoorn Experimental Farm Tel: 044 272 6077 - Anel Engelbrecht, Principal Researcher - Kobus Nel, Farmer Support & Development • Roleplayers like Klein Karoo International undertake their own private research, focusing largely on food safety and animal health. • The Department of Animal, Wildlife and Grassland Sciences at the University of the Free State is involved with research. Contact 051 401 2677 or
[email protected] • There are currently no formal training courses for prospective producers: all training is done in-house, on-the-job, but the SAOBC did commission the publishing of a booklet titled The ostrich farm: How to get started. • The SAOBC also launched a BEE-project in 2008 consisting of a three month theoretical training (NQF-accredited), followed by nine months interships/learnerships for 30 new entrants per annum. • Formal qualifications tend to be the B.Sc.Agric. or diplomas in agriculture. • There are training opportunities for processors in this industry (abattoirs and tanning). Employers make use of accredited trainers to ensure that training falls in line with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). • Lectures on ostrich diseases are included in a wildlife Elective taught at the Veterinary Faculty of the University of Pretoria.
5. Websites and publications • www.ostrichsa.co.za – S.A. Ostrich Business Chamber. Find links to other web pages e.g. S A Ostrich Producers Organisation (SAOO) and NOPSA, to members of the SAOBC, as well as to information about the industry. • Ostrich Newsletter / Volstruisbrief, a quarterly publication. • For Research results contact Prof. Brand and Prof. Cloete at Elsenburg. • Diseases of ostriches and other ratites. F W Huchzermeyer 1998. Agricultural Research Council – Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute. • Ostrich production systems M M Shanawany and John Dingle ISBN 92-5104300-0 Food And Agriculture Organisation. • Contact Dr Willem Burger, Technical Advisor to the SAOBC, for other publications. Write to
[email protected] • www.dedenne.com is the website of ostrich farmer Johan Keller who diversified into the tourist market. The guesthouse’s income is “quite significant compared with that generated from primary farming activities”. Farmer’s Weekly did a write up on this venture entitled “Agritourism helps ostrich farm fly high”. Find it on the archives at www.farmersweekly.co.za
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6. Companies involved Camexo SA Ltd T/As Camdeboo Meat Processors Tel: 049 891 0622/ 082 377 5063
[email protected] Meat only Camexo SA Ltd T/As Exotan Tel: 041 402 8000/ 082 906 7531
[email protected] Leather only Gondwana Marketing Tel: 079 871 8231
[email protected]
8. International business environment • South Africa is the largest producer, processor and roleplayer in the ostrich industry, and despite the growing international competition, maintains its dominance in the ostrich market. The main competitors are emerging industries in the East and South America. South Africa’s climate, experience and expertise are the main factors contributing to its sustained success. • Marketing is done through selected agents, internationally and local representatives, as well as by attending trade shows. Advertising is also used on a selective basis. • The European Union is the biggest consumer of South African ostrich meat. Meeting EU and other international requirements is essential for effective marketing. As a result, the industry adheres to the strict EUrequirements; especially regarding full traceability.
Mosstrich Tel: 044 606 4400/ 082 776 3550
[email protected] Meat only Oasis Tanning Tel: 011 416 2270/ 083 555 5433
[email protected] Leather only Ostrimark SA (Edms) Bpk. Tel: 046 603 5300
[email protected] www.ostrimark.co.za
Philippe Genuine Ostrich Products Tel: 046 622 6567/ 082 4934 732 Grahamstown Ostrich Abattoir
[email protected] Tel: 046 636 1685/ 082 576 5507
[email protected] Meat, leather, feathers
[email protected] South Cape Ostrich Tanning Meat only (SCOT) Tel: 044 606 4500/082 572 6067 IMPEC (Integrated Meat
[email protected] Producers of the Eastern Cape) Tel: 046 622 6567 Leather only
[email protected] Swartland Volstruise Meat de-boning plant. IMPEC was Tel: 021 851 2694 formed as a joint venture aimed
[email protected] at uplifting emerging black ostrich farmers within the established Meat, leather, feathers ostrich industry of the Eastern Cape. Meat
Klein Karoo International Ltd Tel: 044 203 5100
[email protected] [email protected] www.kleinkaroo.com Leather, meat, feathers
7. Local business environment • Activities and practices in the SA ostrich industries are being guided by a “Code for the Commercial Production of Ostriches” as well as a “Bio-diversity Long term strategy for the SA Ostrich industry”. • As a result of the international demand for exotic leather products and the trend towards healthier food (like ostrich meat – low in fat and cholestrol), this industry is mainly export orientated. The industry is mainly influenced by the exchange rate, the international economy, market growth and market stimulation, by supply and demand chain dynamics and animal disease control. Other cost factors which affect this industry include the prices of input supplies (fuel, grain etc.) and production processes. The biggest cost contributor is feed which amounts to 80% of input costs. • The domestic market has great potential, particularly in value-add activities like ostrich leather products. During the ban on meat exports in 2004/2005, the local meat consumption grew five-fold.
This is mainly an export business for South Africa, 90% of all ostrich products being exported. Currently, South Africa exports about R2 bn worth of ostrich meat, leather and feathers annually. South Africa at present has about 600 export-registered farms, producing around 220 000 slaughter birds annually. There are six export-approved abattoirs for European Union purposes and eight tanneries. Meat is also exported to the East.
9. Commercial farmer points of interest • The commercial ostrich farmer must ensure adherence to EUrequirements with regards to bio-security, traceability and disease control. Compliance with labour legislation, etc is also becoming increasingly important. • The Ostrivision report contains information on the entire value chain. • For technical information and advice to farmers, Contact Kobus Nel at 044 272 6077.
10. Black Economic Empowerment initiatives Principles: 1. OstriBEE should be aligned to the national AgriBEE-guidelines. 2. Due to the nature of the ostrich industry it is important to distinguish between producer level and processor level. This distinction also minimises risk for the new entrants. 3. Increase participation in the entire value-chain: - General living standards of employees / new entrants can be improved; - Access to capital and natural resources (land); - Number of Black managers and specialists. 4.
The following risks and challenges need to be realised and managed properly: - Access to capital: It takes 30 months for a new entrant to receive the first income. - Access to land: 22,8 hectares required per ostrich on natural veld. - Disease control: ostrich chicks are “born” without an immune system and thus specialised care for chicks is essential.
5. Increase skills of Black roleplayers by providing: - Skills and artisan training: Abattoirs, tanneries, etc. - Mentorships on farm level as well as at processors. 6. Manage affirmative action in employment - set clear targets for staff development; - implement development programmes.
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Implementation: • The SAOBC commissioned the publication of a booklet in 2007 with the title The ostrich farm – how to get started to assist BEE-entrants. The booklet is being distributed free of charge. • Members of the SAOBC report at each meeting on programmes and progress.
Projects already implemented: Western Cape Klein-Karoo Agri-Business Centre: Oudtshoorn • Funded by Absa, Land Bank, Klein-Karoo International • Aim: Resource and advice centre for business plans, assistance with funding applications, etc. • Implemented with the assistance of Agri Klein Karoo, the collective organisation for all farmers in the Klein Karoo region. Klein-Karoo Feather sorting project: Dysselsdorp (Klein-Karoo) • Employs 100 people in the Dysselsdorp area. • It is an independent project that is being run by the members. • Feathers supplied and bought back by Klein-Karoo Group. Ten students from the previously financial disadvantaged community are given study grants by Klein Karoo Group and the Free State University to enable them to commence with their first year degree studies. Klein Karoo Leather Goods Project: • The initial purpose was to produce marketable small leather goods from low value raw material such as leather pieces. However, through mentorship and training, the project has now evolved to the manufacturing of high-quality leather goods for the export markets. The products are being sold by the Klein Karoo Boutique. • Emphasis is on training and productive employment of the people involved. • Currently employs15 people from previously disadvantaged groups. Southern Cape: (SCOT – Southern Cape Ostrich Tanning – Member of the Mosstrich Group) : Mossel Bay • Joint venture between SCOT, Transnet, Eskom • Manufacturing of ostrich leather goods • Training to unemployed women • SCOT donates leather • Sells products via SCOT’s marketing channels Mosstrich BEE Trust • Mosstrich is owned by 180 ostrich producers and has implemented a project whereby 6 000 preferred shares, representing 6.5 % of the issued share capital, were given to the 250 employees. • The employees share in the company profits and a total amount of R1,815 million was paid out to the employees in the form of dividends. • The next step is to extend this programme to farm labourers on some the farms of the 180 producers.
Eastern Cape Salem Project in Eastern Cape • Focus on community development –70 black farmers are trained per annum. • The farmers are chick raisers. • 7000 ostriches are being raised per annum on a contract basis. • Proper business training is being provided to ensure sustainability. •The focus is on individual ownership.
The Middleton Ostrich Development Project. • Creating the opportunity for the upliftment of a whole range of previously disadvantaged role players and farm employees. • Empowerment and advancement of farm workers who wish to use the Middleton Ostrich Development Project as a stepping stone into commercial production. • The project seeks fair and responsible profit that is largely dependent on participants’ dedication to the raising of their own ostriches from day old to the mass of to 50kg. • The properties, consisting of 4 farms totaling approximately 484 ha of which approximately 270 ha is scheduled for irrigation which is developed into flood irrigated lucerne pastures. The farms are all situated in the Middleton Area and are highly developed into small paddocks which enable the farm to maximise its carrying capacity. The properties are well developed with the entire infrastructure required for grazing the ostriches, Breeding Bird pens, incubator, workshops and sufficient housing for all the people involved with the project. Camexo ( Graaff –Reinet and Port Elizabeth) • 400 ostriches are being placed at black producers. The producers function on their own as independent producers (chick raisers).
Northern Cape Kuruman This is a black owned enterprise with about 30 members who are involved in ostrich production. The SAOBC’s training booklet is being used extensively by this group. On farm-level in all ostrich production areas, individual producers: • donate chicks to workers and assist them with raising and obtaining feed; and • buy mature slaughter ostriches from workers; • provide mentorship on farms Financial contributions towards BEE by the ostrich industry amount to some R12 million per annum Read some of the full stories on www.ostrichsa.co.za
11. Farming with ostriches A nutritionally well fed and well cared for high pedigree female ostrich can easily produce 40 offspring per year, but not before the female bird is three years of age. Coupled with a short gestation period of only 42 days to hatch an ostrich egg, it is easy to see why this is an industry worthy of investigation. In theory, 500 offspring from one high pedigree female bird can bring a long term and worthwhile farming operation. In reality however, mortalities are high (50% plus) in chicks. Ostriches breed well in a warm climate. Heavy rain and thunderstorms will certainly affect the breeding cycle. High humidity can also be a problem - not necessarily for breeding itself, but for young chicks. High humidity means high bacteria and young chicks are susceptible to catching all kinds of diseases when they are young. A good supply of natural feed, including alfalfa (lucerne), maize, soy and wheat are a definite advantage as these are staple foods for an ostrich. A mature ostriches consumes 2,5 kg of feed per day. An unlimited supply of fresh, clean water is an absolute necessity. Ostriches drink up to 2 gallons (9 litres) of water every day. The global focus of farming is now truly pointing towards environmentally friendly business operations. With the huge amounts of antibiotics being
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force fed into chickens, beef, pork and turkeys, together with intensive farming, steroids, growth hormones and all the other unnatural additives, it makes a fresh change to find a farming industry which does not require such techniques. Farming ostriches is environmentally friendly; steroid, hormone and force- feeding free. Ostriches are free roaming livestock and feed off all natural Ostrich feed. Whilst ostriches are free roamiong, the industry also realises the need to pro-actively manage the natural environment and thus a Bio-diversity Management Unit was established in 2008 to ensure the creation of a balance between utilisation and conservation of the natural environment. Ostriches require little or no handling once they reach four or five months of age. However, they need to be vaccinated against Newcastle Disease three months before slaughter and also need to be treated against ticks and be kept in a quarantine camp (which is free of any vegetation) fourteen days prior to slaughter. Farming ostriches can be financially rewarding. As with all livestock, there are pitfalls and danger areas to be aware of. Prospective farmers should be aware of the fact that it takes 30 months from hatching before any income is received.
The 2 biggest problems by far are: • Capital required due to high feeding costs and the amount of land needed to keep ostriches (if ostriches are to be kept on natural veldt the carrying capacity is one ostrich per 22,8 hectares) • High risk due to the fact that ostrich chicks are being borne without an immune system, leading to high mortalities during the first month.
Advice to new ostrich farmers: • Make sure you can comply with all the international regulations and requirements. • Investigate the most suitable marketing arrangement(s), i.e. where to slaughter the birds, methods of payment (entire ostrich or skin and feathers separate from meat, etc). • Ensure that you do have the financial resources to carry you through the first 30 months. For more information contact: SAOBC (see heading 2). Our thanks to the South African Ostrich Business Chamber for editing the draft chapter
Livestock Other livestock This chapter concerns the farming of livestock not covered in the other chapters of this section. Should you be aware of a species not included in this directory, please let us know. We are not aware of any butterfly operations in South Africa other than Butterflies for Africa in Pietermaritzburg – visit www.butterflies.co.za. There are other projects within the region. The Kipepeo Butterfly Project in Kenya is one project where butterflies are farmed. Visit www.kipepeo. org. And in Tanzania, farmers in the Usumbura mountains who had been earning a meagre living producing cash crops such as coffee and bananas are now reaping the rewards of butterfly farming, says the Tanzania Forest Conservation Group. Crickets can be farmed as a high protein feed (for fish, poultry etc) and freshwater bait. Call 031 767 1992, write to
[email protected] or visit www.herpetology.co.za. Crocodiles – see the Aquaculture chapter. An emu is a ratite, the same category as the ostrich. Emu farming is a relatively new industry. Emuphoria is a role-player, and their website – www.emuphoria.co.za – has notes on emu products, farming with emus and more. Emuphoria can be contacted at 083 235 0219 / 073 271 7520. The South African Emu Association is housed at the same telephone number. Landbouweekblad ran an article “Emoes: Foefie of geldmaker?” in their 16 October 2009 edition. Silkworms – find details of role-players in the specialised fibre production chapter. Farming with snails is known as heliciculture. Snails are usually kept in outdoor pens, in buildings with a controlled climate, or in closed systems such as plastic tunnel houses or greenhouses. The West Coast Snail Project aims to create direct employment for up to 200 people by positioning the Western Cape as a key exporter of gourmet snails. For more information, contact Bertie Hechter at
[email protected] Another contact for snails is Dr WF Sirgel from the Department of Zoology at Stellenbosch University – 021 808 3064. Find the article “Snails: premium-priced ‘pests’” in the archives at www.farmersweekly.co.za. Food scientist Sheldon Breda was heading up an enterprise in which invasive alien snails are either exported or processed. The pest is collected off farms (allowing the latter to save on chemical pest control). Contact Sheldon at 082 404 3574. Insects • The objective of the website www.food-insects.com is to provide information on the current importance and the future potential of insects as a global food resource. • Examples of insect eating are found in many different cultures throughout the world. In South Africa insect eating is especially important in the northern provinces such as Limpopo, North-West, Mpumalanga and Gauteng. Some of the most important edible insects are mopane worms, locusts, bees, termites and edible stinkbugs. The cultural uses of these insects is different, as is the lifecycle of the insects and the requirements for sustainable harvesting. • In South Africa there is a great need for sustainable harvesting of the important insect crops. Sustainable harvesting should increase the harvest and make it more dependable. This would help to alleviate food shortages and provide a greater and more reliable income for the people involved in the harvest. • Museums have a special role to play in preserving the traditional uses of plants and animals as an important part of our heritage. Great interest in Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) is now being shown and support for work on ethno-ecology is growing. Source: adapted from “On the trail of missing Mopane Worms”, an article which can be found at www.scienceinafrica.co.za
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3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Find contact details and information about directorates under the “Divisions” option at www.daff.gov.za
Pork 1. Overview SAPPO info, the monthly electronic newsletter of the South African Pork Producers’ Organisation (SAPPO), is an excellent way to stay in touch with what is happening in this industry. Find contact details under heading 2. • The South African pig industry is a very tiny player (only 0.2%) in comparison to world pig production. With approximately 105 000 sows, the value of slaughter pigs contribute only 3.29 % of the total value of animal production and only 1,5 % of the total value of primary agricultural production in the country. Despite this the South African pork industry has evolved into an into an economic important industry with a gross producer value of about R2,1-billion and a gross consumer value of more than R4-billion. • Commercial pig producers are distributed across all nine provinces of South Africa. The largest concentrations are found in the provinces of Northwest (17%), Western Cape (16%), KwaZulu-Natal (16%) and Mpumalanga (11%). Climate (summer rainfall) and the regional concentration (access to top quality abattoirs and the monetary spending potential of consumers) play an important role in this regard. • In 2004 the average herd size for the South African pig industry was 338 sows. The most recent figure (2008) is approximately 535 sows per herd. The application of artificial insemination (AI) is growing and approximately 65 % of the commercial sows in South Africa are currently inseminated. Five reputable AI Stations are operational with a standing capacity of 290 boars and a potential maximum output of more than 10 000 doses per week. • Approximately 79.85% of the total pig numbers of the RSA is designated to the commercial areas and 20.15% to the developing areas. Internationally it is a well-known fact that pig production usually takes place close to maize production areas, because this is more economically viable and sustainable. The cost of transporting maize to outlying areas is expensive. Source: Dr D P Visser, TOPIGS. Tel: 012 348 3676
2. Associations involved South African Pork Producers Organisation (SAPPO) Tel: 012 361 3920 Fax: 012 361 4069
[email protected] www.sapork.com SAPPO is responsible for communications and promotion of the pork industry, and for commissioning research, serological and residue tests. Premier Pork Producers (Gauteng area) Tel: 012 361 3920
[email protected] www.premierpork.co.za Western Cape Pork Producers’ Association Tel: 021 948 1821
[email protected]
KwaZulu-Natal Pork Producers’ Organisation Tel: 033 342 8592
[email protected] Free State Pork Producers’ Organisation c/o Tel: 012 361 3920
[email protected]
Pig Breeder’s Society of SA Tel: 051 410 0955 www.studbook.co.za
Pig Veterinary Society Dr Koos Botha – 082 600 8424
Pig Abattoir Forum Tel: 011 420 1376
Red Meat Industry Forum Tel: 012 807 1367 / 082 399 8908 www.redmeatsa.co.za
The amendment of the Animal Identification Regulations as published in Government Gazette No. 29174 - R877 of 8 September 2006 requires all animals to be identified. The main reason for these markings is to trace pigs back to the owner in the case of any swine disease outbreaks or theft. In the case of pigs, these animals must be tattooed. The following extracts serves as a reference: Section 7 of the Act prescribes that: - All owners of cattle, sheep and goats must register an identification mark at the office of the registrar of animal identification. This mark can be used on cattle, sheep, goats and pigs (only the method of identification differs). Parts on which animals must be identified (Regulation 12) - (3) Pigs: the mark must be tattooed in the left or right ear. The use of the hog slapper is also accepted as a method to identify replacement sows and boars. This slab mark must be applied on the neck. Pork producers have been advised by the SA Pork Producers’ Organisation of these requirements. Abattoirs are requested to take note of these regulations when accepting pigs for slaughter. Source: RMAA, quoted in the SAMIC Newsletter
National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) Tel: 012 341 1115 www.namc.co.za The current statutory levy of R6 per slaughter pig will expire on 31 October 2010. SAPPO’s annual general meeting in 2009 approved plans to apply for an increase from R6 to R7 per slaughter pig. Audited financial statements have to be submitted to the National Agricultural Marketing Council and Audit-General.
4. Training and research The Pork Planning Committee at the Red Meat Research and Development Trust (RMRDT) consists of experts in their particular field of research. Members of the committee follow a particular procedure to allocate an amount of money annually to various submitted research proposals. At some stage during the procedure, the proposals are ranked in order of priority. Research is done through the ARC, the universities or other institutions approved by the committee. Research report summaries are available on the SAPPO website. For complete reports, contact SAPPO at 012 361 3920. ARC-Livestock Business Division (LBD) www.arc.agric.za The pig unit offers excellent training opportunities to students from tertiary institutions and those wanting to start pig farming. Type of Course
Duration
Contact Person
Telephone
Introduction Course to Pig Production
3 days
Annetjie Loubser
012 672 9153 083 285 4532
Pig Judging Course
2 ½ days
Freek Botes Frik Voordewind
083 232 4234 083 957 4885
The ARC–LBD pig production unit offers expertise, animals and facilities for applied and generic research in management, nutrition and production related health and reproduction to all stakeholders in the pig industry. Pigs and piglets from a 150 head sow unit and environment controlled houses are available for this purpose. Contact Dr A Kanengoni at 012 672 9355.
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The Provincial Departments of Agriculture work closely with the Agricultural Colleges to provide training on Pig Production. Basic training includes: 1. Planning the pig production unit 2. Housing pigs 3. Pig care in various stadia
4. Nutrition 5. Breeding and selection of pigs
Find details of the Agricultural Colleges in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter. Agrimark Trends (AMT) Tel: 012 361 2748 www.agrimark.co.za
University of the Free State Department of Animal, Wildlife and Grassland Sciences Tel: 051 401 2163 AgriSETA accredited trainers
[email protected] offer courses on pig production. An example is Umnga Farmers Training Lengau Agricultural Centre Centre at 045 933 1318 (find a Tel: 051 443 8859 complete list in the Agricultural
[email protected] Education and Training chapter). Department of Microbial, Bureau for Food and Biochemical and Food Agricultural Policy (BFAP) Biotechnology Tel: 012 420 4582/3
[email protected] www.bfap.co.za University of KwaZulu-Natal BFAP publishes a regular feature in Tel: 033 260 5808 Porcus on statistics and trends with Animal and Poultry Science regard to the South African pork
[email protected] industry. Dicla Training Tel: 011 662 9024 / 5 www.diclatraining.com Stellenbosch University Animal Science Tel: 021 808 4916 Food Science Tel: 021 808 3578 www.sun.ac.za South African Society of Animal Science (SASAS) Tel: 012 420 5017
[email protected] Visit www.sasas.co.za for scientific papers dealing with pork research.
University of Pretoria Animal and Wildlife Sciences Tel: 012 420 3271
[email protected] Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development Tel: 012 420 3248
[email protected] Food Sciences Tel: 012 420 3239
[email protected]
Pig Study Groups (PSG) Knowledge and ideas are shared at the PSGs. Feedback is given on national (i.e.SAPPO) meetings, domestic matters are discussed. The role of these groups is also to expose members to the latest technology and developments in the industry. This is usually done by guest speakers who are invited to address the group. Limpopo PSG Potgieterus based Kobus Raath – 083 258 6808
North West PSG Klerksdorp based Shane Cotty – 083 633 1109
Magaliesburg Pork Producers PSG Bruce Bourhill – 082 466 2376
Gauteng PSG Pretoria based Dr Andrew Tucker – 012 460 9385
Northern Free State PSG Heilbron based Gawie Pretorius – 058 852 1822
5. Websites and publications SAPPO puts out 9 copies of Porcus – published for the pork industry – per year. A newsletter by email is also available. Find contact details under heading 2 or visit www.sapork.com. SAPPO has videos – available in English, Afrikaans, isiXhosa, isiZulu, and Northern Sotho: examples are Piglet Management (birth to 24 hours); Piglet Management (24 hours to weaning); A.I.; The Dry Sow; Handling. SAPPO’s Promotions Committee has compiled a publication, The complete guide to South African pork, which provides information on the nutritional content of pork, buying tips, preparation and handling tips and recipe ideas. Pig Production Problems – John Gadd’s Guide To Their Solutions, published by Nottingham University, covers 32 major pig problems. The book is intensively practical, and is firmly aligned to the bottom line. It is available from Exclusive Books. Pigs for profit Drs Jim Robinson and Mary-Louise Penrith Find the South African Code for the Welfare of Pigs on www.nspca.co.za By looking under Publications at www.daff.gov.za, find the following Info Paks, available from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries: 1. Care of sow and piglets 2. Common diseases of small pig herds 3. Skin conditions in pigs 4. Pig care 5. Pig Farming – general hints Call 012 672 9068 for the following publications, available from the ARC in Irene: • Pig production in SA • Reproduction and Artificial Insemination in Pigs • CD: Pig Breeds of South Africa The following ARC-Institute for Agricultural Engineering (IAE) publications can be obtained by calling 012 842 4000 or by emailing
[email protected]. za: • Manual on housing for pigs (also available in Afrikaans) • Extensive pig housing (also available in Afrikaans) Also available from the ARC-IAE is the excellent Manure handling in intensive animal production units, written by HT Breedt, edited and revised by F Cilliers. Copyright. 2009. Animal manure can be utilised for fertiliser, as an energy source (fuel) and as a supplement to animal feed rations. The different applications of animal manure on the farm are dealt with in Chapter 12 of the publication. Kejafa Knowledge Works has publications in both English and Afrikaans on pigs. Visit www.kejafa.co.za or call 014 577 0005.
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6. Companies involved AgriBio Tel: 021 979 3180 www.agribio.co.za
Dorna Distributors Tel: 031 266 3353
[email protected]
Alzu Depots (Pty) Ltd Tel: 013 249 8900/1 www.alzu.co.za
Enterprise Food Tel: 011 821 7000
AXXON Tel: 011 837 7177 Fax: 011 837 3100
[email protected]
Eskort Tel: 012 345 4452 www.eskort.co.za
GSI Group Tel: 011 794 4455 Ear-tags, ID and electronic weighing www.gsiafrica.co.za equipment Pig Equipment Big Dutchman SA Pty Ltd Tel: 011 452 1154 Kanhym Estates www.bigdutchman.co.za Tel: 013 249 7964 www.kanhym.co.za Charles Street Vet Tel: 012 460 9385 PIC pig genetics
[email protected] Longside Bull Brand Tel: 012 376 2607 Tel: 011 953 2334/48
[email protected] www.bullbrandfoods.com Lynca Dalein Plaasbou Tel: 016 362 0936 Tel: 012 808 5999 Milos Abattoir Construction material and design Tel: 016 976 2549 for piggeries www.pigs.co.za
New Style Pork Tel: 016 362 0936 www.newstylepork.co.za
TOPIGS SA Tel: 012 348 3676
[email protected]
OdorCure (Pty) Ltd www.odorcure.co.za
TOPIGS supports clients with genetics, feeding, disease prevention, housing, management, artificial insemination, depop repop.
Pig Reproduction Equipment and Products Suzette Vos – 083 647 3762 Plantkor Tel: 036 468 1309
[email protected] www.plantkor.co.za
Troskie en De Wet Tel: 011 769 1480 United Meat Packers Tel: 011 444 8436
High quality equipment and services Vereeniging Meat Packers to the pig industry Tel: 016 422 4093 / 972 8800 R&R Abattoir Tel: 012 561 1126 RTV Abattoir Tel: 011 749 7000 South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) Tel: 012 428 6648
[email protected] Veterinary remedy residue testing of meat
Winelands Pork Tel: 021 948 1821 www.wlpork.co.za
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7. Local business environment
8. International business environment
As up to date information is crucial for the successful production of pork, SAPPO provides its members with the latest market information on a continuous and regular basis. Take the “Market Information” menu option on www.sapork.com. A weekly price report is e-mailed to SAPPO members, providing them with countrywide producer and consumer prices. A monthly import figures email also goes out to members.
The European Union (EU) is the largest exporter of pig meat in the world, followed by the United States of America. Germany and Denmark are the leading EU exporters.
Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy (BFAP) publishes a regular feature in Porcus on statistics and trends with regard to the South African pork industry. Visit www.bfap.co.za Agrimark Trends (AMT) provides a market information service (Website – www.agrimark.co.za). You can subscribe for weekly market reports. Contact Minda at 012 361 2748 • Exotic diseases such as PRRS, Aujesky’s disease and classical swine fever are a major threat to any country’s pork industry. • Infections get into piggeries via people, vehicles, feed, other animals, wind, water or birds. Quarantine pens are an essential part of any biosecurity system and people or pharmaceutical, equipment or feed reps should remain outside the piggery on routine visits. Others like Vets, Electricians or anyone who has to work in the piggery must go through the appropriate clean-up procedure which applies to the owner, manager and all labour who come and go at the end of each day. • Record keeping is paramount and all movements of pigs must be recorded. • Biosecurity is an awareness more than a set of rules and it is important to use expert help – refer to SAPPO for further information. Read about the Biosecurity Plan on the SAPPO website.
Selling pigs on fixed price contract Advantages to the pork producer: • A guaranteed income which is higher than his expenses. • Makes it easier to budget for the contract period. • Makes it easier to decide on new capital expenditure because of guaranteed prices. Disadvantages to the pork producer: • Depending on the negotiated profit margin, if the market prices are in favour of the producer, he will never reap the benefit of the good times. • If the pork producer has made a mistake in his cost calculation, he will be at a disadvantage. • If the pork producer increases his efficiency e.g. lower FCR or lower feed costs, will the processor reap all the benefits? Advantages to the processor: • Carcasses will be coming in at a set price, which cuts out the huge fluctuations in the market prices, often driven by sentiment. • The processor can negotiate longer term prices with the retail chain stores. The chain stores expect to have constant prices of pork products supplied. • Takes guess work out of budgeting for the processor. • The processors are guaranteed of a supply of carcasses, because they keep the pork producer on the farm by paying him more than his production cost. Disadvantage to the processor: • The processor will not benefit during times of overproduction, where pork prices usually are below cost of production. • If the processor is signing contracts with less efficient farmers, the cost of production will tend to be higher. Source: By Dr Thomas Volker, Penvaan Group
South Africa imported close to 18 947 of pork in 2008 (in 2006 the figure was 20 546 tons). Almost 70% of these imports consist of ribs. Europe (59%) and Canada (34,3%) were the main exporters to South Africa. • www.thepigsite.com – “online news and technical resource to the global swine industry” • www.pigprogress.net – your “portal on global pig production”. • Pig International is a publication giving an international perspective. Visit www.pig-international.com • Visit the websites of various national pork organisations e.g. USA’s National Pork Producers Council – www.nppc.org and the British Pig Executive – www.bpex.org.uk • Find out about the 2010 World Meat Congress at www. worldmeatcongress2010.com
9. Commercial farmer points of interest Conditions Causing Trims and Condemnations 1. Chest Adhesions • Chest adhesions are scars in the lining of the chest cavity. They occur after severe pneumonia or septicemia (infection). The membrane lining will adhere to the ribs, making lung removal difficult or impossible. Adhesions can be small spots or can involve the entire chest cavity. When severe, the ribs must be trimmed and lose their value for sale. • Chest adhesions are reported to be commonly caused by Actinobacillus pleuropneumonia (APP), pneumonia, and Glasser’s disease. Mycoplasma pneumonia, influenza and Actinobacillus suis (A. suis) infection may also contribute to adhesions. Infection may occur in young pigs, but when the pig recovers, the adhesions or scars will remain for the life of the animal. Affected pigs may have difficulty breathing, especially after exercise, or they may appear normal. • European research has shown that herds with higher rates of adhesions have higher stocking densities, poorer ventilation rates, mixed multiple source pigs and did not practice all-in-all-out production. The prevalence of adhesions is reportedly lower in Mycoplasma pneumonia-free herds. • Chest adhesions not only affect carcass losses, but overall growth performance. Herds with high adhesion rates will have slower growth rates, reduced feed efficiency, increased days to market and increased medication costs. 2. Arthritis • Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints in the body. There are two types of arthritis: infectious and non-infectious. Erysipelas is the most common cause of infectious arthritis, while OCD (osteochondrosis) or degenerative joint disease is the most common non-infectious cause. • Erysipelas can be controlled through strategic vaccination programs. The cause of OCD is not completely understood, but stocking density, genetics, nutrition, growth rate, environment, flooring and exercise have been reported to be involved. • Since the control measures for erysipelas and OCD are different, an accurate diagnosis is essential to reducing arthritis trims and condemnations. It is suspected that the majority of joint trims at slaughter may be OCD. 3. Abscesses • Abscesses are pus-filled cavities that range from marble size to grapefruit size and larger. They are the result of an infection, either from a wound or from a blood borne infection. Bacteria can enter the blood via a wound or needle stick and spread throughout the body, producing abscesses far from the site of entry. Tailbiting is a common cause of abscesses hidden within the body. Internal abscesses may not be visible, and an affected pig may appear normal. • Common causes of abscesses are tailbiting, wounds, dirty needles, dirty tail docking equipment, fighting and castration wounds. In units with high abscess rates, consider cleaning and disinfecting all medical equipment between uses, changing needles more frequently, reducing stress to control tailbiting, improving cleanliness of pens and removing sharp edges that cause injuries.
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4. Peritonitis • Peritonitis is an inflammation of the lining of the abdomen, which causes the internal organs (viscera) to stick together. Peritonitis indicates a previous or ongoing infection. Common causes include hernias, umbilical infections, torsion of the intestine, infected castration wounds and Glasser’s disease. 5. Nephritis • Nephritis is inflammation of the kidney. Common causes are leptospirosis and urinary tract infections. Leptospirosis is a waterborne infection spread by wildlife urine. It can be controlled by vaccination. Bladder infections can be a result of dirty wet pens and inadequate water intake. Affected hogs usually appear normal. Conclusion • Reducing trim and condemnation rates can result in big paybacks. Pigs may appear healthy on the outside, so closely following trim and condemnation rates is the only way to catch any problems. Source: Alberta Government – September 2005. Article supplied by Kanhym Estates.
10. The Synchronised Group Management System (Sygma System) The ideal in pig farming is to have a strict hygienic control with an all in all out system. This is achieved by keeping the same age groups, or production groups in the same houses. This is impossible for the small farmer if he does not use group farrowing. Since a synchronised sow group moves all together to the next accommodation, each housing is totally emptied – all-in, all-out. The farms that use the Sygma system leave the accommodation to stand empty for a week after cleaning. This is called hygienic emptying. The resulting reduction in disease level usually leads to an improvement in the fertility of the sows and in the growth of the piglets. Farms that use the Sygma system provide a healthier environment by the policy of all-in, all-out combined with hygienic emptying. Therefore, they use less medication and the production cost per piglet is reduced. The outlay for animal health on the average farm is R120.00 per sow per year. By using the Sygma system with strict all-in all-out and hygienic emptying, the same average farm will save R30.00 per sow per year on veterinary costs. The sows are divided into 7 groups of sows that are at the same stage of production. This grouping of the sows enables the three main activities of insemination, farrowing and weaning to be planned into a schedule, which gives the pig breeder many advantages. They also achieve higher performance results with their animals. The farmer will only have one manger task per week e.g. weaning, insemination and Farrowing. In a conventional weekly farrowing program these tasks are repeated weekly and occupy the farmer daily. Small farmers cannot afford to employ a pig manager and normally do these tasks themselves. This limits the time available for other enterprises on the farm. With the 3 week farrowing the farmer will wean on a Thursday, inseminate the following Tuesday and his next group sows will farrow the following Tuesday. The advantages for the pig farmer are numerous. • • • •
healthy pigs better health status larger litter size more litters per sow per year and larger litter size • labour savings up to 25 per cent
• • • •
increased profits less work, more income more time for the animals sell larger batches of weaners at better prices • reduced AI costs
Source: Joos Solms, Plantkor. Write to
[email protected] or call 036 468
1309
11. Emerging farmer information Qeda Nyoka is responsible for SAPPO’s emerging farmer projects. He is busy with projects countrywide. He reported that 2009 had been a good year for the Emerging Farmer portfolio Committee. Twnety percent of the statutory levy is earmarked for emerging producers. SAPPO trains emerging pig producers at emerging farmer pig units erected by the government in Limpopo, North West and the Western Cape. These are suitable to demonstrate how a modern pig unit should function. Weaners are bought from commercial producers and reared at the units. SAPPO also assists with the marketing of the pigs. Nyoka assists in the establishment of pig study groups, drawing up business plans, evaluating training facilities, the establishment of pig projects etc. Qeda Nyoka is busy with numerous projects country-wide. These include: • Today’s emerging farmer could be tomorrow’s commercial farmer. • Develop market awareness – make sure you have a market for your product. • Plan buildings and lay-out of piggery in such a way that it is easy to double up, and double up again as your herd grows. • Plan to erect a pig unit where feed can be stored and dispensed in easily available maize form i.e. 65% of ration, so as to save transport costs. • There are regional advantages to some farmers e.g. in Gauteng maize is plentiful and there is easy market access. • Pigs must be kept warm in winter and cool in summer. • Well-insulated buildings should be erected, concrete floors are a must, for health and hygiene. • Effluent disposal must be planned, good drainage is needed. Contamination of streams or rivers is not allowed. • Pigs are fed a well-balanced diet. Growing pigs must always have food available to optimise growth. Different diets are used for different size pigs. • New Farmers should fist visit two or three successful commercial farmers to obtain advice and join a study group in their area. • Consider starting farming by first buying weaners and growing them out to baconers (phase 1). • If this is successful, move on to breeding. • In Europe, many farmers are specialist “growers”. They do no breeding. • Do not farm with pigs in the swine fever area – this has market limitations and one could lose all your stock. • Ensure that you know which permits you need to have in your area. Source: Peter Mockford. Write to him at
[email protected]
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12. Absolute basics • Pigs must always have clean, fresh water to drink. One pig needs at least 5 to 10 litres of water every day. • When they are feeding young, sows need to drink more water because they have to produce milk. • Pigs are single-stomach animals and require two or three meals a day. • Divide the food into two portions; feed the pigs half in the morning and the rest in the evening. • Do not feed your pigs only once a day because once they had their fill they will only play with the rest of the food, stand in it and soil it. This food is going to waste and the pigs will be left hungry. • Do not only feed one vegetable (such as cabbage), because pigs need a varied diet to stay healthy. Even cutting grass (especially green grass) and feeding this in small quantities will help supplement the pigs’ diet. • It is important that small or weak pigs should be fed separately from the bigger ones, because these stronger pigs will eat all the food. • If you have more than four adult pigs, then food should be divided into two containers, so that every animal can have a share. • Many pigs are pink and when kept in the sun their skins turn red and get sunburn. Pigs do not have much hair on their bodies to protect them from the cold or insulate them against heat. Pigs suffer if they get too cold or too hot and should not be kept in too cold or hot conditions. • Many pigs die from pneumonia if left in the cold, wind or rain. Pigs can also die from heatstroke after being left in the sun with no shelter or water. Even if the pigs do not die, they will not be as healthy and strong as they should be. • Pigs must have a warm, dry sleeping area. • Pigs must be able to lie in the shade out of the sun. Part of the pen must have a roof to provide enough shade for all the pigs. (Experts advise that the whole pen be covered). • If the roof is made of metal, it must be covered with grass or branches to keep it cool. • Many people think pigs like to be in dirty pens with only mud to stand in. This wrong idea may result in the pigs becoming sick because they are kept in unhealthy conditions. • Pigs roll in mud to protect themselves against the sun and extreme temperatures and against parasites such as flies.It is not necessary for pigs to have mud if they have shelter and their pens are kept clean to limit the number of flies and other parasites. • It is important that the floor of the pen should slope so that excess water can run off allowing the pen to stay dry.If water does collect in the pen, it is important to dig a drainage furrow or ditch, leading out of the pen. • Pigs always dung in the same place. Make sure that this mess is cleaned out at least twice a week, to lessen the risk of disease. • Food and water containers must be cleaned thoroughly at least twice a week. Source: The Pig Care info Pak (booklet) – see heading 5. Our thanks to Dr DP Visser for valuable feedback on the draft chapter.
Livestock Poultry 1. Overview Find the “Industry” menu option on the Southern African Poultry Association (SAPA) website – www.sapoultry.co.za – for statistics. Information is also available in Trends in the Agricultural Sector and other economic analyses done by the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Find these under the Publications option at www.daff.gov.za. The Poultry and Egg Industry is at times the biggest Agricultural sector, depending on the size of the maize crop. The poultry industry consists of three separate sectors: • the day-old chick supply industry • the broiler industry, and • the egg industry. Broiler chickens are raised for meat i.e. fresh, frozen or value added (e.g. chicken fingers, saucy steaklets or polony). Egg layers or dual-purpose chickens are used for the production of eggs (they are lighter in weight than broilers, and so fattening cockerels from this second category with balanced feed bought in a bag is not as economically viable as doing the same with broilers). The poultry industry provides about 61% of all animal product protein consumed in SA. In addition to its importance as a source of food and its contribution to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product, the South African poultry industry remains an important contributor to job creation and employment opportunities, both in the formal and informal sector, with in excess of 80% of the industry consisting of SMMEs (Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises).
2. Associations involved Southern African Poultry Association (SAPA) Tel: 011 795 2051
[email protected] www.sapoultry.co.za One of the many services SAPA offers is the compiling of the Code of Practice for the industry. The SPCA gives input to this. This Code is an objective guide for all poultry produced in South Africa and is an endeavour to lay down the accepted norms of the industry, incorporating various legal requirements where necessary. The Code considers safe and wholesome food for human consumption to be of the highest priority and therefore fully supports the implementation of applicable measures to comply with the requirements for safe
food of poultry origin, as approved by the relevant Health Authorities. The Developing Poultry Farmer’s Organisation can be contacted at the SAPA office. Find the downloads for the Broiler Organisation, the Chick Producer Organisation and the Egg Organisation on the SAPA website. On www.saspo.org.za find contact details of clubs/associations affiliated to the South African Show Poultry Organisation KwaZulu-Natal Poultry Institute (KZNPI) Tel: 033 346 0049 www.kznpi.co.za
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Find information on directorates at www.daff.gov.za
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International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC) Tel: 0861 843 384 www.itac.org.za
National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) Tel: 012 341 1115 www.namc.co.za
Find the list of state vets on www.sapoultry.co.za (take the “Downloads” option) or refer to the Animal Health chapter in this book.
4. Training and research See also the Agricultural Education and Training chapter Many AgriSETA-accredited training providers offer poultry courses (find the list in the Agricultural Education & Training chapter). One striking example was for a broiler production project run by disabled people in Polokwane. Skills for Africa did the training. ARC-Livestock Business Division Tel: 012 672 9111 Annetjie Loubser – 012 672 9153 www.arc.agric.za The poultry unit offers excellent training opportunities to students from tertiary institutions and those wanting to start poultry farming. It also offers facilities for research to all stakeholders in the poultry industry.
The Provincial Departments of Agriculture, working with the Agricultural Colleges, offer poultry courses. SAPA arranges training courses, done by KZNPI. These include broiler flock management, broiler breeder flock management, commercial layer management and hatchery management. Contact Hendrien at SAPA in connection with these. Call 011 795 2051 or mail
[email protected] Stellenbosch University Department of Animal Science Tel: 021 808 4716
University of the Free State Department of Microbial, Biochemical and Food Biotechnology Council for Scientific and Tel: 051 401 2676 Industrial Research (CSIR)
[email protected] Tel: 012 841 3260
[email protected] Department of Animal, Wildlife and Grassland Sciences A research team led by its Tel: 051 401 2153 bioscientists successfully developed a novel pasteurisation system. Lengau Agricultural centre Tel: 051 443 8859 KwaZulu-Natal Poultry
[email protected] Institute (KZNPI) Tel: 033 346 0049 University of KwaZulu-Natal
[email protected] (PMB) www.kznpi.co.za Animal & Poultry Sciences Tel: 033 260 5808 National Certificate: Poultry
[email protected] Production (NQF 3), accredited with AgriSETA. Shorter poultry University of Pretoria production courses are run in Agricultural Economics, Extension conjunction with SAPA and the KZN and Rural Development Department of Agriculture. Other Tel: 012 420 3248 training courses by arrangement. Animal and Wildlife Sciences Tel: 012 420 4018 Mpofu Small Stock Training Centre Production Animal Studies: Poultry Tel: 040 864 9064 Reference Centre A training centre in the Eastern Tel: 012 529 8224
[email protected] Cape which has been instrumental in providing poultry farming skills. Contract and academic research is done on poultry diseases. SmallPoultry Information Centre scale farmer projects are run. Rod Simpson – 082 853 5701 www.poultryinfo.co.za The Zululand Centre for Sustainable Development Provides short courses on poultry Tel/fax: 035 772 4746 and is an accredited facilitator and www.ecosystems.co.za/zcsd.htm assessor with AgriSETA.
5. Websites and publications • Pluimvee/Poultry Bulletin – a monthly magazine issued by SAPA. Previous copies are available on their website as pdfs. • The Southern African Chicken Book Ed Wethli. Juta. It is available from KwaZulu-Natal Poultry Institute – 033 346 0049. • A Guide for Beginner Poultry Farmers – available from the ARC. Call 012 672 9239 or visit www.arc.agric.za. • A portal to various poultry-related sites: www.thepoultrylink.com • Visit www.kejafa.co.za or call 014 577 0005 for the DVD entitled “Successful Broiler Production”. A number of publications are also stocked, including: Raising poultry (Leonard S Mercia), Raising Chickens (Gail Damerow) and Hoenderproduksie – Braaikuikens (Dr Jean A Cilliers). • Worldwide poultry updates – www.thepoultrysite.com • Find the current world production, market and trade reports at http:// www.fas.usda.gov/currwmt.asp the Foreign Agricultural Service arm of the US Department of Agriculture. • Find the excellent Training Paper on broilers and eggs at www.daff.gov. za (take the “publications”, “General publications” and “Agricultural Marketing Extension Training Papers” options) • Anyone wishing to start a poultry abattoir should know that there are legal, health and safety requirements to meet. A list of Poultry Abattoirs can be found at www.nda.agric.za/vetweb/Food%20Safety/Abattoir/ Poultry_Query.asp on the National Department of Agriculture’s website. • www.obpvaccines.co.za – click on the livestock you wish to know more about (in terms of health). The chicken will give you information on the following diseases, a background, symptoms and the necessary vaccine: Newcastle Disease, Fowl Pox, Fowl typhoid and Haemophilus Coryza. • Subscribe to the Poultry Information Centre newsletter. Write to
[email protected] • Find the technical articles on www.meadowfeeds.co.za • Available from the SPCA: Chicken Care Booklet. Try your local branch of contact the National SPCA 011 907 3590/1/2 Info Paks (Booklets) available on www.daff.gov.za: • Are your chickens healthy? • Chicken Care • Factors affecting egg production and quality • Marking of poultry meat • Newcastle disease • Respiratory diseases in chickens • Gut conditions in poultry • Disease prevention in chickens
• Small-scale egg production • Practical egg production • Household chickens • Keep chickens • Poultry diseases • Nervous conditions in chickens • Feather, skin and leg conditions
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Telephone 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for the following publication, available from the ARC in Silverton: • Small-scale broiler house (also available in Afrikaans) • Heating of broilers and broiler housing (also available in Afrikaans) • Small-scale poultry housing in South Africa Another excellent publication available from the ARC is Manure handling in intensive animal production units, written by HT Breedt, edited and revised by F Cilliers. Copyright. 2009. Contact the ARC’s Institute of Agricultural Engineering at 012 842 4000. The following pamphlets are also available from the ARC in Irene:
Big Dutchman SA Pty Ltd Tel: 011 452 1154 www.bigdutchman.co.za
Echo Tel: 012 803 9490 www.echocoldrooms.co.za
Biogas Power Tel: 086 124 6427 www.biogaspower.co.za
Eggbert Eggs Tel: 034 922 1618 www.eggberteggs.co.za
Adding value to poultry manure
Elite Breeding Farms Tel: 033 266 6135 / 028 341 0979
Boschveld Tel: 014 733 0775 www.boschveld.co.za
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Housing of poultry (Updated)
16 Artificial insemination of poultry
Farming with indigenous chickens
2
The rearing of chicks (Updated)
17 Cannibalism among poultry (Updated)
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The nutrition of broilers
18 Debeaking of poultry (Updated)
Breathecoat Tel: 0861 000 435 www.breathecoat.co.za
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Care of broilers (Updated)
19 Management of a poultry farm (Updated)
Environmentally friendly paints
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Mechanically Ventilated Broiler house
20 Housing densities for chicks and laying hens (Updated)
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The rearing of chicks (Updated)
21 Equipment for the housing of chickens and laying hens (Updated)
Chemvet Tel: 011 437 9000 www.chemvet.co.za
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Care of the young hen (Updated)
22 Temperature, ventilation and lighting for layers (Updated)
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Feeding egg-type chicks
23 The laying house production graph (Updated)
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Feeding egg-type replacement pullets
24 The importance of egg quality (Updated)
10 Feeding of laying hens
25 The artificial incubation of eggs (Updated)
11 Housing of Poultry
26 Formation of the egg (Updated)
12 Care of laying hens
27 General feeding principles for poultry
13 Record keeping for the Poultry farmer (Updated)
28 Poultry: Nutrition of breeders
14 Quality of day-old chickens (Updated)
29 Historical background of the fowl industry (Updated)
15 The broiler carcass and the factors that influence it
30 Simple breeding plans for the maintenance of breeding flocks (Updated)
6. Companies and other roleplayers Agri BIO Tel: 021 979 3180 www.agribio.co.za
Alzu Depots (Pty) Ltd Tel: 013 243 3442 www.alzu.co.za
Akshan Consulting Tel: 011 803 7139 / 084 777 4472 Poultry breeding stock (Indigenous www.ashkan.co.za and some standard breeds) can be purchased at the Agricultural Astral Foods Ltd Research Council in Irene. Tel: 012 990 8260 Contact them at 012 672 9238/9. www.astralfoods.com Get in touch with the ARC’s Poultry section at Glen in the Free State by Avichicks Tel: 018 787 4475 calling 051 861 1175. Equipment and consulting
ALFA CHICKS Tel: 012 561 1205 www.alfachicks.co.za Supplier of day old broilers
Poultry equipment Chicken Shack Agencies Tel: 012 669 0164 www.chickenshack.co.za Chubby Chick Tel: 018 293 0202 Combustion Technology Tel: 021 715 3171 www.rielloburners.co.za
Epol (Branches countrywide – see Animal Feeds chapter or visit www. epol.co.za) Eskom supplies a Small Scale Broiler Production Unit and also offer an energy advisory service. Find contact details in the Energy chapter. Heidel Eggs Tel: 013 751 3897/8 Hyline Hatchery Tel: 011 318 2355 Grootvlei Chickens Tel: 083 408 3858 Day-old chicks GSI Group Africa (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 794 4455 www.gsiafrica.co.za Poultry equipment: fans, heaters, vents, electronic climate controls and much more.
Country Bird Holdings is the holding company for several brands JF Equipment Machinery including Country Bird, Ross Africa Tel: 011 760 3494 www.jfequipment.com and Nutri Feeds. Country Fair Tel: 021 505 8000 www.countryfair.co.za
Poultry processing equipment.
Dicla Broiler Production Unit Tel: 011 662 1363/71 www.dicla.com
Midway Chix Pty Ltd Tel: 014 730 1903
John F Marshall Tel: 011 842 7100 A division of Astral Operations www.johnfmarshall.co.za Ltd. Meadow Feeds Tel: 011 991 6000 Daybreak Farms www.meadowfeeds.co.za Tel: 013 661 1063
Poultry equipment and training
National Chick Limited Tel: 031 785 9100 www.natchix.co.za
Dorna Distributors Tel: 031 266 3353
[email protected]
Supplier of day-old chicks
Dynamic Automation Tel: 031 736 2071 www.dynamicautomation.co.za
New Quip Tel: 011 472 2201 Nulaid Tel: 013 935 1159
Avipharm Tel: 033 342 7042
Eagles Pride Hatchery Tel: 012 808 9930/1/2 www.eaglespride.co.za
Nuway Poultry Tel: 011 437 9000
Bandiri Poultry Solutions Jan Grobbelaar – 084 567 8975
[email protected]
Early Bird Farms Tel: 011 316 3420 / 206 0600 Tel: 017 720 0100
Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP) Tel: 012 522 1500 www.obpvaccines.co.za
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Rainbow Farms (Pty) Ltd Tel: 031 242 8500 www.rainbowchicken.co.za
Sangiro Tel: 012 205 1035 www.sangiro.co.za
Reliance Poultry Tel: 011 794 4880 www.reliancepoultry.co.za
Sovereign Foods Tel: 041 995 1700 www.sovereignfoods.co.za
Rock Farms Tel: 014 576 1117/38
Spartan Equipment Tel: 011 318 2239 Tel: 033 387 6233 www.spartanequipment.co.za
Rocklands Poultry Tel: 011 792 9962 Ross Poultry Breeders Tel: 016 366 0249 Safe Eggs Tel: 083 640 0300 www.safeeggs.co.za Patented technology for the pasteurisation of shell eggs
Tydstroom Poultry Tel: 021 970 5400 www.tydstroom.co.za Diagnostic services, advice etc. is available from the Universities e.g. the Poultry Reference Centre at the University of Pretoria. The contact number there is 012 529 8224.
7. Local business environment • The Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy (BFAP) Baseline Reports cover chicken production (expected to expand 14% by 2014). Find these annual reports at www.bfap.co.za. • The latest South African Poultry Industry Profile and other downloads on www.sapoultry.co.za give complete overviews of the status of this industry and related issues. • Visit www.thepoultrysite.com for updates on international news and articles.
8. Commercial farmer points of interest Subscribe to the newsletter from The Poultry Site, which carries news, tips and technical information. Find details at www.thepoultrysite.com
Quality and standards: (hatcheries accreditation) Hatcheries Accreditation is considered crucial from a technical perspective as the hatchery is the starting point of the whole process of broiler and egg production. Accreditation is voluntary and only for SAPA members. The list of accredited hatcheries appears on www.sapoultry.co.za Software: Software programmes exist through which production data can be collected, broilers can be managed etc. Contact details are in the Animal Improvement & Breeders chapter.
9. Emerging farmer information Find the “New Farmers Information” under the “Downloads” menu option at www.sapoultry.co.za. Guidelines for the Broiler Industry and Guidelines for the Egg Industry are provided here. If, for whatever reason, you cannot access this information, call SAPA.
Current situation: • It is difficult for small farmers to enter into the retail supply chain, since it is looking for suppliers who can guarantee the demand at an acceptable price and quality. While some smaller producers can match the price and quality criteria, they are too small to supply the needed quantities. • At present, emerging farmers sell their eggs to black-owned shops, spaza shops, butchers, hawkers, restaurants, hotels and to a small extent to white traders (e.g. cafés). Future market growth: • The African population represents the best market opportunities for emerging farmers. • Distribution channels to the low-income groups need to improve and are doing so. The distribution of eggs to township spazas and door-todoor sales must be promoted. • Catering companies, hawkers buying in bulk from producers, cooperatives, contracting and government tenders all represent possible markets. • Many farmers do not adhere to the grading requirements as stipulated by legislation. For small-scale farmers to penetrate other markets it is important to begin following the regulations. Training in grading and packaging can open new markets for small-scale producers, especially on government tenders. Co-operative marketing: • Black-owned co-operatives could be a vehicle for penetrating the formal marketing channels in South Africa. • Through co-operatives, the produce of farmers can ensure larger supply of quantities, create a brand name, and have “muscle” to negotiate prices on behalf of farmers. The function of the co-operative can be to look for markets for members and also assist in preparing the produce (grading and packaging) and marketing it. Possible strategies: 1. Contracting: small-scale farmers can enter into a contract with a processing or a packaging plant, or an integrated company to supply a stipulated number of eggs or chickens at a time. This provides a steady market for the small-scale farmer. 2. Supply to Consumers: consumers can buy chickens or eggs at the farm stalls. The farmer can employ a door-to-door sales representative to take orders in the township. 3. Supply to Hawkers: eggs can be sold to hawkers on a regular basis. Since most hawkers have a transport problem, the farmer can entice them by delivering the eggs at their sheds. 4. Supply to Hospitality Trade: supply to hotels, restaurants, caterers, township bed & breakfast, guest houses and shebeens. There are many tourist initiatives and developments in the townships that need to be catered for. 5. Supply to Township Cold Storage Distributors: some entrepreneurs have positioned themselves in the townships and other former black areas to distribute eggs. The concept here is “to bring the product to the consumer”, to reduce the transport constraint. Small-scale farmers can supply these distribution centres. 6. Supply Through Tendering: every year tenders from the government departments (e.g. correctional services, hospitals, etc.) are published for the supply of chickens and eggs. Small-scale farmers stand a change because of the system designed for the previously disadvantaged individuals, provided they can meet the price, quality and quantity requirements. 7. Supply Mining Houses: mines have kitchens and hospitals that are serviced by caterers (in-house or as an outsourced service. Some of these mines are now owned by black empowerment groups who can be lobbied to empower small-scale farmers.
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Before starting a chicken or poultry venture, check on any applicable regulations/legal considerations with your local authority or associations listed in this chapter.
Success Stories The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has sponsored the reigning National Female Farmer of the Year (2009), Bongiwe Kali, with a hatchery worth R3 million. Find the story on www. buanews.gov.za In 2003, more than 200 farm workers became the new owners of Heidel Eggs, a 68 hectare farm. This is not a share-equity scheme and as such the business is owned and run by the trust. As with most of these types of empowerment projects one of the most difficult obstacles is to educate the workers around the complicated aspects of a viable and sustainable business. It is critical that everyone involved understands the longterm goals and buys into the plan. Often BEE is misunderstood as a get-rich quick scheme. Heidel Eggs has been able to pay dividends to its beneficiaries since 2003 when the farm was taken over; with the exception of 2008. On average, this dividend is equal to 20% of their annual salary; one example of the tangible benefits and real value ploughed back into the workers’ pockets. There are many indirect benefits such as improvements in their housing and ablution facilities, free access to water and electricity, and recreational facilities such as a soccer field. Heidel Eggs also grants loans to its staff when they need additional finance and supplied the workers with a piece of land as well as seeds to grow their own vegetables. In addition, all the workers have the benefit of a life insurance policy, a funeral plan and a provident fund. All these small benefits add up to a rather significant lifestyle change. Find the full article in the 4th quarter issue of Agri Review, available on www.standardbank.co.za In October 2006 a group of young black enthusiasts that had a poultry project in Daveyton Township approached Agri Gauteng. They wanted to farm successfully and required assistance in reaching their goal. A preliminary business plan by a consultant indicated a capital requirement of multi millions of rands. It consequently lacked viability. A practical business plan, based on the farm’s natural resources, was then drafted by a neighbouring farmer member of Agri Gauteng and submitted to the mining group Impala Platinum. Impala Platinum agreed to carry the financial risks by supporting the project financially, notwithstanding the lack of security. The neighbouring commercial farmer provided mentorship on a running basis and, whenever there was a need for equipment that the farm lacked, a plan was made to assist. Now in its fourth year, the enterprise is a mixed farming unit, including 60 ha of land, planted to maize, 300 sheep and 45 head of cattle. In addition, the new farmers continue operating their poultry unit in Daveyton with the intention to move it to their farm at Langseekoeigat. Source: AgriSA Press release, December 2008. Enquiries can be addressed to Freek Tomlinson, Manager Agri Gauteng, 012 663 9935, or to Dawid Groesbeek, Mentor of the programme, 083 267 2240.
Samuel and Zoleka Joka run one of the successful small-scale broiler operation in Bumbane village, on the outskirts of Keiskammahoek. Mike Burgess interviewed them and Fumanekile Ngqokweni, an extension officer, for the article “Broilers transform Keiskammahoek”. Below are some of the points included in the advice given by the Jokas and Ngqokweni: • Success is linked to the ability to access start-up capital and skill to grow broilers successfully. • The new farmer has to renovate or build adequate facilities, buy equipment (e.g. heaters, self-feeders, drinking pans, sawdust), feed and chicks. This is quite a capital outlay before you get anything back. • Samuel stressed the importance of training • He advises beginners to start small – say 50 chicks – and build volume with experience, thereby minimising the risk of initial failure • Disease control is vital. Growers can radically decrease the probability of disease through correct management e.g. ensure clean water and watch the general cleanliness of production areas (disease can spread through contaminated drinking water, food and chicken waste). • Before a new batch of chickens is introduced to the pen, clean it thoroughly and rest it for at least ten days. • The temperature should be kept at about 30oC in the first two weeks. • There must be significant air circulation during hot periods. During cold times, heat should be generated using heaters and infrared lamps. • Wood shavings should be evenly distributed in the pens: this ensures cleanliness and the retention of heat. The Jokas have two structures: a large rondavel with large windows where they rear their chicks up to four weeks, after which they are transferred to a large wooden shed fitted with canvas flaps (that can be lifted) and ceiling fans to ensure circulation. Source: Adapted from the article “Broilers transform Keiskammahoek” at www. farmersweekly.co.za
Some useful contacts are listed below. For a wider option, refer to the full lists provided earlier in the chapter, both for equipment and training. Agricultural Research Council (ARC) and “Fowls for Africa” Tel: 012 672 9238/9 www.arc.agric.za The Agricultural Colleges like Cedara and Madzivhandila College, working with the Provincial Departments of Agriculture, are able to assist with training. Find their contact details in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter. Bandiri Poultry Solutions Jan Grobbelaar – 084 567 8975
[email protected]
Developing Poultry Farmer’s Organisation Tel: 011 795 2051/2 The organisation has been established specifically to be of assistance to emerging poultry farmers. KwaZulu-Natal Poultry Institute Tel: 033 346 0049 www.kznpi.co.za Training of existing and smallscale poultry farmers including mentorship of trainees
The Poultry Section (ARC in Mpofu Training Centre Bloemfontein) Tel: 040 864 9064 Tel: 051 861 1175 Out thanks to Maarten De Kock from the Southern African Poultry Association (SAPA) and Rod Simpson of the Poultry Information Centre for providing feedback on the draft chapter
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4. Farming with rabbits
Livestock Rabbits See the Speciality Fibre Production chapter for notes on farming rabbits for their wool.
1. Overview • The area required for an economic unit is fairly small. A plot or even a comparatively large town property (regulations permitting) is suitable. • Rabbits compare favourably with other animals as converters of vegetable feed to meat. To produce 1 kg. live mass meat, the Rabbit only requires 3,5 kg. vegetable feed. • The reproduction potential of the doe is remarkable if one considers, in a commercial herd, a progeny of 40 can be marketed out of a single doe, with one 3 kg animal producing up to 40 kg of meat in a year. • Certain breeds are bred for both their meat and pelts, such as Chinchilla and Rex Rabbits, whilst the New Zealand White and The Californian are used for meat production. Angora Rabbits (see Speciality Fibre Production chapter) are farmed for their wool. • Locally, rabbit health Research and Development has had little commercial incentive to advance, and what knowledge does exist has seldom been accessible when and where needed. Overseas expertise applicable to mass production can be accessed, but issues of licensing and cost work against this.
2. Websites and publications • Kejafa Knowledge Works supplies the publication Raising Rabbits, a 256-page publication complete with photographs. Visit www.kejafa. co.za or telephone 014 577 0005. • The following Info Paks are available under the publications option at www.daff.gov.za: Rabbits: Keeping Rabbits and Rabbit recipes. Hard copies can be obtained by calling 012 319 7141. • Find the article “The Ndekero Challenge: A Systems Approach for Rabbit Keeping by a Rural Community in Partnership with a Commercial Rabbit Farm” on www.AfricaRuralConnect.org. It is a project idea being implemented in the small town of Ndekero , Kenya, and will produce 100 kg of rabbit meat every month and generate part-time, incomegenerating opportunities to several parents in the community.
3. Local business environment Pelts: • The market for pelts fluctuates, and breeders may have to find their own markets. • Breeding for Pelts also means extra expense as animals must be kept until after the primary hair coat has been shed. • Pelt processing by the producer himself could also involve great expense. Meat production: • A carefully worked out breeding programme can achieve top production and the economic productive life of a doe is from about 24 to 36 months. • At 11 weeks rabbits are usually ready for the market with a mass of 2,3 to 2,5 kg. • The law requires slaughtering at an approved Abattoir, either the producer’s own or an existing one. • An eleven week-old rabbit should dress at about 54%. • Rabbits can be kept as pets, for meat, pelts, or to produce Angora wool. • In South Africa, commercial rabbit farming is somewhat neglected.
There is no single husbandry method that can be universally recommended for successful rabbit farming: the selection of any appropriate mix of practices and methods must consider a range of criterion, including three basic determinants: 1. The nature of the rabbit, its needs and stresses, 2. What products are being farmed for, 3. Availability of requisite inputs.
1. Nature of the rabbit • • • • • • • • • • •
High reproductive ability, concomitant to high mortality. Good dress-out ratio. Flesh low in body fat. Quick maturing. “Highly-strung”, small, nocturnal mammal, intensely predated upon by rats, raptors, mongooses, dogs, cats and snakes. Fearful of sudden movements and sounds, and prone to panic. Good converter of vegetable roughage due to bacterial action in the hindgut, therefore requiring freely available fresh water, and sensitive to sudden changes in diet. Relatively large intestinal tract necessitating high throughput of clean roughage and sufficient mobility to stretch its gut and expel gas buildups. Vulnerable to sudden changes in temperature and its extremes, particularly heat, and to drafts and damp. Susceptible to a number of infectious diseases and parasites, particularly if stressed. (Importation of live rabbits is often restricted, as it is currently). Males are progressively territorially aggressive as they mature. This takes the form of urinating on neighbours and attacking other males with tooth and claw. The entire animal can be converted to product.
2. Products. • Meat, fur, wool. (Plus all value added conversions and processed derivatives). • Farming for meat and fur means slaughtering, farming for wool does not. But the production and marketing of wool and wool products demands a set of skills, management techniques, and markets that differ markedly from those centring around rearing animals for slaughter which need to be dealt with specifically. • Farming for quality furs (and certain meat products) requires that animals be housed for 2 and more times longer than one would for carcasses destined for “fryer” markets. This impacts upwards on required housing infrastructure, and requires a cost-effective tanning method or facility. • South African consumer resistance to rabbit carcasses (association with pets or taboos) can generally be obviated by presenting portions, pies, pâtés etc.
3. Availability of requisite inputs. Choose the right rabbit: Do: • Buy healthy rabbits with bright eyes, dry noses and clean ears and feet. The rabbit’s fur should be smooth and clean and its teeth in line. • It is best to buy breeding stock at about six months, and to replace them every three years. • Select your rabbits from parents which have a good breeding record. A female that does not perform well will also have poor offspring. Don’t: • Do not buy a mature female because you cannot always know how old she is. She might for instance have reached the end of her productive life and will be of no use (for breeding). Long toenails indicate that the rabbit is older. Housing: • Rabbits can be kept in very simple housing. Whether a single rabbit is kept as a pet, or a warren of rabbits is farmed on a larger scale, they can be housed in cages of wire mesh or scrap wood.
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• In commercial rabbit enterprises, professional hutches can be made for quality and durability. • Individual cages should at least be 50cm x 60cm x 30 cm for a 4 kg Rabbit (rabbits need not be kept in sheds or buildings). • They prefer cooler temperatures, and are comfortable at 16o C. They should be shielded from direct sunlight, wind and rain. • The cage should have a wire mesh floor with holes large enough for the droppings to fall through (the holes in the mesh should not be big and allow their feet to get stuck). The droppings can be used as a fertiliser in vegetable patches or flower gardens. • The cage should not have a ground floor because the rabbits will dig a way out. • If a wooden frame is used, the wire mesh should be placed on the inside of the frame to prevent the rabbits from gnawing through it. The mother, however, needs a nesting box to keep her babies warm. This box should be about 38 x 25 x 25 cm. • Clean the cage regularly and keep it dry to prevent disease. • Protect the cage from sun, wind and rain. It is not necessary to put the cages inside buildings such as sheds to protect the rabbits against cold as they can tolerate cold better than heat. • Rabbits need plenty of fresh air. Their cages therefore have to be well ventilated. • The cages should be put in a quiet place where dogs, cats and rats cannot get to them. Feeding: Do: • Feed your rabbits lucerne, grass, green maize, leaves, carrots, turnips, lettuce, maize meal, porridge, bread, samp, weeds and leaves of fruit trees (rabbits will eat almost anything that grows in the soil). • Most rabbit breeders use commercially produced rabbit pellets too. These contain most of the nutrients and vitamins needed to keep rabbits healthy. They also make for less waste and mess than feeding big vegetable leaves. • Good quality hay is also recommended in addition to pellets, followed by treats of various vegetables or fruit. • Feed the rabbits early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Most of the food should preferably be given late in the afternoon. • You can grow your own green material for rabbit food. Don’t: • Never feed your rabbits potato, tomato and rhubarb leaves. These are poisonous to rabbits. • Never leave them without water: rabbits must have access to clean water at all times. • Be careful not to introduce sudden changes in the rabbit’s diet. • Do not feed rabbits greens that have become heated, food that has been sprayed with pesticides, spoiled food or mouldy hay. Breeding • Female rabbits are ready to breed when they are 4 to 6 months old and males when they are 5 to 6 months old. • Keep the male rabbit in a separate cage. • Always put the female into the male’s cage. If the mating was successful the male will roll over. • If the female is not ready for mating, she will try to run away. • When mating does not take place, the female can be put into the male’s cage for the next 5 to 6 days. • The female is more productive during springtime, summer and early autumn. • Breeding during the winter months is not recommended as it is too cold. Pregnancy lasts about 1 month.
Birth • About 25 days after mating soft dry grass can be placed in a clean, dry nesting box for the female. The female will add some of her own fur to the grass. • Stay away from the cage at this stage until the babies have been born. • The babies are usually born during the early morning hours. • Inspect the babies carefully to see if they are alive and well. • Remove dead babies immediately. • The babies should lie close together in the nesting box. • Make sure that the babies are suckling and well nourished. • The female cannot always feed all the babies if there are too many. Some of the babies can then be given to another female who only has a few babies. The babies should be of the same age. Weaning: • The baby rabbits can be weaned from the age of 30 to 35 days. • At this stage they can be taken away from their mother. Put the young females and males in separate cages. • Depending on the feeding and management level, the female can be mated again from 2 to 3 days up to 1 month after having given birth. • Young rabbits are usually big enough to be eaten or sold at the age of 3 to 4 months. If you keep them for a longer period they will eat much more and the males will begin to fight.
5. Roleplayers Yolandi Buhr Tel: 039 679 9106 Greener Pastures Tel: 082 454 6889 www.rabbits.co.za
Natal Rabbit Club Heather Heron Tel: 031 464 3823
The Natal Rabbit Club have been active for more than 50 years and can advise on any aspect of For the supply of live and dressed rabbit breeding. Write to Heather rabbits Heron, PO Box 39042, Escombe, Queensborough 4070. John F Marshall Tel: 011 842 7100 Karoline Steenekamp Fax: 011 872 1078 Tel: 021 469 2426 (o) www.johnfmarshall.co.za
[email protected] Rabbit cages and accessories
Rabbit expert and consultant Danie Janse van Rensburg Tel: 072 798 2802
Sources: Karoline Steenekamp and Tjaart Steenekamp; Rabbits: keeping rabbits, a booklet published by the Department of Agriculture (see publications and websites in this chapter). Our thanks to Karoline Steenekamp for assistance with this chapter
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3. Training and research
Livestock Sheep 1. Overview Refer to the Department of Agriculture, Fishing and Forestry website for statistical updates – www.daff.gov.za (take the “Publications” menu option). Along with the “Sheep and goat numbers: Breed composition in RSA” in the report is “Sheep, lambs and goats: Numbers slaughtered at abattoirs, average prices of mutton, production and consumption”. • There are an estimated 28,8 million sheep in South Africa, with sheep farming happening mostly in the Northern, Eastern and Western Cape; the Free State and Mpumalanga. • Karakul sheep are farmed in the more arid areas. • About 50% of the country’s sheep are fine-woolled Merinos • South Africa’s mutton is produced from the Dorper, a highly productive and locally developed mutton breed for arid regions, and the South African Mutton Merinos (SAMM) which has been used, as a sire line, in the development of four other landrace breeds in South Africa i.e. the Dormer, Dohne Merino, Afrino and the Vandor. • Other sheep breeds in South Africa include the Damara, the Meatmaster, the Ille de France, the Dormer, the Suffolk, and the Van Rooy, which are mainly bred for mutton, although they also produce wool. • Refer to www.studbook.co.za for details of the different breeds. The domestic sheep (Ovis aries) is produced for its wool, meat and milk. Other sheep byproducts: • Clothes, footwear, rugs, and other products are made from sheepskin. • Sheep tallow can be used in candle and soap making. • Sheep bone and cartilage has been used to furnish carved items such as dice and buttons as well as rendered glue and gelatin. • Sheep intestine can be formed into sausage casings, and lamb intestine has been formed into surgical sutures, as well as strings for musical instruments and tennis rackets. • Sheep droppings, which are high in cellulose, have even been sterilised and mixed with traditional pulp materials to make paper. • Of all sheep byproducts, perhaps the most valuable is lanolin: the water-proof, fatty substance found naturally in sheep’s wool and used as a base for innumerable cosmetics and other products. Source: Livestock Development Strategy for South Africa (find it on www.daff.gov.za); http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domestic_sheep; Sheep Farming in South Africa, Vol 22 April/May 2008 issue – www.togoto.co.za
2. Associations involved Find contact details for the sheep breeder societies in the Animal Improvement and Breeders chapter, and at www.studbook.co.za. Red Meat Industry Forum Tel: 012 667 1189 / 082 399 8908 www.redmeatsa.co.za Red Meat Producers’ Organisation (RPO) Tel: 012 348 1933 www.rpo.co.za National Emergent Red Meat Producers’ Organisation (NERPO) Tel: 012 361 9127 www.nerpo.org.za
National South African Meat Industry Company (SAMIC) Tel: 012 361 4545 www.samic.co.za SA Stud Book and Animal Improvement Association Tel: 051 410 0900 www.studbook.co.za National Wool Growers Association (NWGA) and Cape Wools SA – see the Sheep - Wool chapter
• Agricultural degrees/diplomas at universities and Agricultural Colleges cover smallstock production. Short courses are also offered (Glen College does short courses in mutton technology, for example). Find contact details in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter. • Research is done by the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), the universities, and the Agricultural Colleges amongst others. AgriSETA accredited trainers provide courses on the production of sheep. Below are examples of such training providers: • Umnga Farmers’ Association Tel: 045 933 1318 • Buhle Farmer’s Academy Tel: 013 665 4001 • Koue Bokkeveld Tel: 023 317 0983 ARC-Livestock Business Division Tel: 012 672 9111/ 320 www.arc.agric.za
• Skills development programmes which are agricultural based and relevant to a sustainable sector. Research & Technology Development • Research on sustainable natural resource management and use • Research on livestock production technologies • Economic research for the benefit of the small stock industry
To enquire about short courses in Extension and Outreach small stock management, phone Annetjie Loubser at 012 672 9153. • Presentations at Farmers days and industry congresses Carnarvon Experimental • Advice to individuals Station • Written and electronic Tel: 053 382 3333 information dissemination • Initiatives and partnerships Central University of towards local economic Technology development School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences SA Society for Animal Science Tel: 051 507 3134 (SASAS) Tel: 012 420 3268 Grootfontein Agricultural www.sasas.co.za Development Institute (GADI) SA Veterinary Society Tel: 049 8421113 Tel: 012 346 1150 Fax: 049 8424352 http://gadi.agric.za University of the Free State GADI undertakes research and Department Animal, Wildlife and Grassland Sciences provides training in the theory and Prof HJ van der Merwe practice of small stock production. Tel: 051 401 2606 The following services are Department of Microbial, Biorendered in support of the mission chemical & Food Biotechnology and strategic objectives: Dr A Hugo Tel: 051 401 2729 Training
[email protected] • Higher Education and Training for studies towards a qualification in agriculture on NQF level 5-7 bands. • Further Education and training for studies towards a qualification in agriculture on NQF level 1 -4 bands.
University of Pretoria Faculty of Veterinary Science Tel: 012 529 8000 Department of Animal and Wildlife Science Tel: 012 420 3271
4. Websites and publications Visit roleplayer websites e.g. www.redmeatsa.co.za, www.rpo.co.za and www.samic.co.za Call 012 672 9111 for these publications, available at the ARC-Irene: 1. Karakul (complete set of Bulletins, available in Afrikaans or English); 2. Mutton (complete set of Bulletins, available in Afrikaans or English). 3. Indigenous Sheep and Goat Breeds of South Africa
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Call 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for these publications, available from the ARC in Silverton: • The Manual on sheep facilities (also available in Afrikaans) • Manure handling in intensive animal production units, written by HT Breedt, edited and revised by F Cilliers. Copyright. 2009. Manure handling practices for sheep is handled in the seventh chapter. Find the Info Paks under the “Publications” option at www.daff.gov.za. These include: 1. Common and Important diseases of sheep and goats 2. Sheep-scab 3. Diarrhoea 4. Skin conditions in goats and sheep 5. Breeding in sheep and goats 6. Reproduction management of a sheep and goat farming enterprise 7. How to estimate the age of goats and sheep 8. Sheep: Hints for dipping sheep 9. Sheep and goats: Feeding 10. Sheep and goats: How to estimate the age of a goat and sheep by looking at their teeth Available from Kejafa Knowledge Works are several publications dealing with sheep. Call 014 577 0005 or visit www.kejafa.co.za to find out about the following: • Barn Guide for Sheep • Storey’s Guide to Raising Sheep by Paula Simmons. 400 pages, photographs and illustrations throughout. • Natural Sheep Care by Pat Coleby. This is a comprehensive guide, whether for wool, meat or milk. • Skaap Produksie is an A5, 250 publication Small-scale Livestock Farming – a grass-based approach for health sustainability and profit. Carol Ekarius. Storey Publishing. ISBN 1580171621. “Natural, organic approach to livestock management that produces healthier animals, reduces feed and health-care costs, and increases profits”. Shepherd Manual Dr JJ Olivier. Agricultural Research Council. February 2003. It is available in English and in Afrikaans. A magazine for practical sheep farmers covering profitable sheep tips, current issues, extensive sheep links and resources – www.sheepmagazine. com
5. Other roleplayers See the list in the Abattoir chapter
Your local Agribusiness e.g. Konsortium Merino Suidwes, Kaap Agri and GWK. Find Tel: 082 771 2008 contact details in the Agribusiness www.konsortium-merino.com chapter. Onderstepoort Biological Products Akshan Consulting Tel: 011 803 7139 / 084 777 4472 Tel: 012 522 1500 www.obpvaccines.co.za www.ashkan.co.za AXXON Tel: 011 837 7177/6/0 Fax: 011 837 3100
[email protected]
South African Sheep Meat Marketing Forum Tel: 012 348 1933 www.healthymeat.co.za
Supplier of all types of I.D. devices from Electronic ear tags/ intraruminal boluses/sub-dermal chips, ankle/neck bands and visual tags and leg-/neck bands.
SA Sheepdog Association (SASDA) Tel: 017 735 1844 www.sasda.za.net
Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute (GADI) – see heading 4 HOTSURE Tel: 0861 HOTSURE (468 787)
[email protected] www.hotsure.co.za
Vleissentraal Ltd Tel: 012 460 9916 www.vleissentraal.co.za Find companies like BKB and CMW in the Sheep - Wool chapter
Biotelemetry solutions for proactive risk management and precision farming.
6. Local business environment • Find the “Imports & exports” and “Market trends” menu options at www.rpo.co.za •Market information is obtainable from Agrimark Trends. An example of their market reports may be found on their website – www.agrimark. co.za. The review includes an international perspective e.g. Australian exports. • The agricultural weekly publications Landbouweekblad and Farmer’s Weekly provide regular updates. • For statistical information regarding slaughterings at abattoirs, auction prices on the hook, production and consumption, visit www.daff.gov. za, find the statistical information under “Publications”.
7. Controlling predators Refer to the Wildlife on Farms chapter.
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8. New farmer information
Livestock
If you’re really serious about starting with sheep you’ll look for information everywhere! Ask the right questions and talk to the right people – not websites. Ask about the district’s: • stock theft • predation • labour
• diseases • markets • veld and grazing
Experience is the best teacher, and commercial farmers have learnt most through direct contact with other farmers (which includes fathers and grandfathers), a kind of osmosis. Talk to a few reasonably successful sheep farmers in the area, preferably neighbours. This sounds like stupid advice but people don’t follow it. They buy farms in districts without doing any research; they start farming enterprises without talking to the locals. Either they’re shy or they think they know more than the people who’ve lived there for generations. Attend farmers days and shows and ask questions instead of drinking Free State Cabernet (klippies & coke). Many breed societies have a programme for the year. Source: Roelof Bezuidenhout, a farmer from the Eastern Cape. He is also a writer and contributing editor for Farmer’s Weekly.
HINTS FOR DIPPING SHEEP All sheep on the farm should be dipped. When lambs dry off after birth, they can become infested by lice and they should therefore also be dipped. Dipping fluid • Make sure that the dipping-fluid is suited for the purpose intended, such as getting rid of scab, lice or both. • Read the label before mixing the dipping fluid. • Do not add anything to the dipping-fluid, unless it is recommended on the label. • Make sure that the dipping-tank is clean before mixing the dipping fluid. • Strictly follow the instructions concerning the replenishment and storing of the dipping fluid. Dipping do’s • Try to postpone dipping until after lambing, or dip the sheep before the start of the lambing season. • Lice can only survive on sheep. Make sure that ALL sheep are dipped. • Animals should be submerged in the dipping-fluid for at least 1 minute. • The head should be submerged at least 3 times. Dipping don’ts • Do not place ewes and lambs in the tank simultaneously. • Sheep should not be driven over long distances before and after dipping. • Never dip thirsty sheep. • Start dipping early in the morning and do not continue until late in the afternoon. Sheep should get the opportunity to dry off sufficiently before the evening. • Do not dip recently shorn sheep. Allow a period of about 14 days for shearing wounds to heal. Source: taken from one of the Info Paks (see heading 5)
Sheep – wool 1. Overview The sheep and wool industry is one of the oldest agricultural industries in South Africa. It plays an important economic role as an earner of foreign exchange for the country. (Economic indicators can be found on www. capewools.co.za) During the whole of its colonial period, the Cape Province remained the most important wool producing area in Southern Africa. Although the sheep industry spread rapidly throughout virtually the whole of the country during subsequent years, “Cape Wool” has become the international generic trade term for all wool produced on the sub-continent. South African wool is largely an export commodity, in both processed and semi-processed form. It is produced and traded in a sophisticated free market business environment into the international marketplace, where supply and demand forces determine price levels. • Main production areas are in the following regions: Eastern Cape, Free State, Western Cape, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal. • The South African clip is mainly a Merino clip, which makes up over 80% of all lots offered for sale. • South Africa’s wool prices follow those of Australia where the world price of apparel wool is determined since the largest volumes of wool are traded there. • More than 90% of South Africa’s wool is exported either in greasy form or semi-processed as scoureds or wool top.
2. Associations involved Cape Wools SA Ona Viljoen Tel: 041 484 4301 www.capewools.co.za The South African wool industry was restructured in 1997 to comply with the regulations of the new Marketing of Agricultural Products Act, 47 of 1996. The first step was to establish a Wool Forum representing the various affected groups in the industry. The Forum meets biannually and its representatives carry their own expenses. The main functions of the Forum are the following: • to create opportunities for industry issues to be discussed; • to liaise with Government and other organisations; • to ensure an independent and objective information, statistical and supportive service; • to establish a viable business environment through the promotion of the necessary research, development and training; • to promote South African wool.
Cape Wools SA is a non-profit organisation established by the Forum as its executive arm. Its directors proportionately represent these groups and they are elected from the Wool Forum. Cape Wools reports to the Forum regarding its activities. To minimise overhead costs and to make maximum funds available for services and functions required by the industry, Cape Wools operates with a small staff complement of five and outsources certain of the functions but accepts full responsibility for the planning and management of all functions. The company started operating on 1 September 1997. It has been granted statutory measures for the collection of statistics (records and returns) for the wool industry, which enables it to create a wool statistics data bank from which a national market indicator and other information regarding the industry can be made available locally, as well as internationally. Wool Forum Tel: 041 484 4301
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National Wool Processors Association Tel: 041 365 5035 South African Wool and Mohair Buyers’ Association (SAWAMBA) Tel: 041 484 5252 SAWAMBA represents the wool buying industry in South Africa. Most of the companies belonging to it have a significant shareholding in local early stage scouring and combing facilities, or are associated with international wool trading houses. South African Wool and Mohair Exchange Tel: 041 484 5252 South African Wool and Mohair Processors’ Association Tel: 041 484 5252 Wool Testing Bureau of South Africa Tel: 041 503 6600 www.wtbsa.co.za WTB is a test house accredited with the International Wool Textile Organisation. It’s responsible for all independent objective measurement testing services to the trade. Wool Textile Council Tel: 041 484 5252 The South African National Committee representing the buying, processing and exporting industry on the International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO). The Wool Trust Tel: 041 484 4307 Fax: 041 484 4309 The Wool Trust was established in 1997 in terms of the Marketing
of Agricultural Products Act, 47 of 1996, which stipulates that assets accumulated by agricultural boards under the previous government be transferred to trusts and utilised to the benefit of the relevant industry as a whole. The Wool Trust Deed stipulates that a minimum of six and a maximum of seven trustees be appointed: one to represent the trade, two to represent the producers and one to represent the Minister of Agriculture. The other three should be independent specialists in the field of asset and financial management. The Wool Forum appoints the trustees (except the ministerial representative). The main objectives of this Trust are: • protection of Trust assets; • utilisation of Trust assets to increase value and maximise income; • funding of services deemed in the interest of industry by a body with similar objectives, which also enjoys tax exemption. Though it is a discretionary trust (it can decide whether there are sufficient funds available for financing certain services) there are certain restrictions. The trustees are obliged to ensure that only activities that comply with the regulations of the Trust deed and benefit the entire industry are funded. The Trust also has to report to Cape Wools, the income beneficiary, which ensures effective communication and facilitates financial planning and management of Trust funds. South African Textile Industry Export Council Tel: 021 959 4162 www.satiec.co.za
Producer organisations: National Wool Growers Association SA (NWGA) Tel: 041 365 5030 www.nwga.co.za The production and advisory and training services are outsourced from Cape Wools SA to the National Woolgrowers’ Association (NWGA). The main aim of these services is to assist producers to increase production efficiency and profitability in order to maximise income. It involves the transfer of production technology and research results.
It also includes development and training with the emphasis on farmers who previously did not have access to such services. The largest share of this budget is earmarked for the upliftment of small-scale or emerging producers, mainly in the old Ciskei and Transkei regions of the Eastern Cape, Free State and Mpumalanga. Members are kept abreast of current news and trends in the wool industry through the monthly Wool Farmer newspaper, sent to them free of charge.
For the different breeder associations, see the Animal Improvement and Breeders chapter of this book.
SA Sheepdog Association (SASDA) Tel: 017 735 1844 www.sasda.za.net
best breeding material selected according to working ability.
Clotex Tel: 021 686 0522 The SA Sheepdog Association’s www.clotex.co.za main objective is to introduce farmers and other interested Clothing and textile service centre people to sheepdogs as labour saving force. This is done through South African Topmakers’ demonstrations and courses, Association as well as competitions, where Tel: 041 484 5252 breeding success is tested and the
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Find contact details and information on the different directorates at www. daff.gov.za
Other: National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) Tel: 012 341 1115 www.namc.co.za
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In 2000 the Wool Industry Forum, the representative body of directly affected groups in the wool industry, requested the Minister for Agriculture and Land Affairs, in terms of the Marketing of Agricultural Products Act, 47 of 1996, for the introduction and promulgation of the following statutory measures, which shall be administered by Cape Wools SA (a Section 21 Company): • Section 18 of the Marketing of Agricultural Products Act: Records and Returns • Section 19 of the Marketing of Agricultural Products Act: Registration In terms of the above-mentioned statutory measures, each broker, trader, processor, importer and exporter of wool has to register and furnish records and returns to Cape Wools SA. The purpose and aims of these statutory measures are to compel parties to keep records and render returns, to ensure that continuous, timely and accurate information relating to the products is available to all roleplayers. Market information is deemed essential to make informed decisions.
4. Training and research Find the “SA Research” option on www.capewools.co.za. A similar option exists on www.nwga.co.za (take the “Resources” menu option). Courses at all universities offering agricultural degrees/diplomas cover small stock production (see the Agricultural Education and Training chapter). Two examples are:
The Provincial Departments of Agriculture, working closely with the Agricultural colleges, offer short courses.
AgriSETA accredited training. University of the Free State The following are some of these Department Animal, Wildlife and providers: Grassland Sciences Prof JB van Wyk • National Wool Growers Tel: 051 401 2677 Association (NWGA) – 041 365 5030 Central University of Technology • Umnga Farmers – 045 933 School of Agriculture and 1318 Environmental Sciences • Koue Bokkeveld Training Tel: 051 507 3134 Centre – 023 317 0983 Short courses are also offered at Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) the above two institutions. Dr Anton Botha The Agricultural Colleges cover Tel: 041 508 3223 small stock production in their www.csir.co.za diploma courses. For the full list, consult the Agricultural Education and Training chapter. Examples are: Glen College Tel: 051 861 1248 Grootfontein Agricultural College Tel: 049 842 1113
5. Websites and publications • See the websites of the various organisations and companies e.g. www. capewools.co.za, www.nwga.co.za and www.cmw.co.za • An educational DVD of the wool value chain was produced by Cape Wools SA and the NWGA. Find their contact details under heading 2. • Downloads on the Grootfontein Agricultural College website – http:// gadi.agric.za – include useful management charts and tools for working out measurements e.g. how many ewes can you keep? • The agricultural weeklies Landbouweekblad and Farmer’s Weekly frequently cover stories of interest to the wool producer (and processor). Find archived articles at www.landbou.com and www. farmersweekly.co.za • Find the general sheep publications in the previous chapter, under the “Publications and Websites” heading.
6. Companies involved Find the directory on www.capewools.co.za for a complete list of wool buyers, processors, exporters, traders and brokers
Wool buyers
Processors
Chargeurs Wool (SA) (Pty) Ltd Tel: 041 581 0081 Fax: 041581 0212
[email protected]
Cape of Good Hope Wool Combers (Pty) Limited Tel: 041 992 3412
Modiano SA (Pty) Ltd Tel: 041 484 6545/6 Fax: 041 484 1143
[email protected] Segard Masurel (Pty) Ltd Tel: 041 451 0481 Fax: 041 451 0497
[email protected] New England Wool (SA) Tel: 041 360 6788 / 083 759 8589 Fax: 041 585 4827
[email protected] Standard Wool SA (Pty) Ltd Tel: 041 487 0610 Fax: 041 487 0680
[email protected] Stucken & Co (Pty) Ltd Tel: 041 397 4700 Fax: 041 397 4735
[email protected] www.stucken.co.za Lempriere (South Africa CC) Tel: 041 503 3431 Fax: 041 503 3118
[email protected]
Chargeurs Wool (SA) (Pty) Ltd Tel: 041 581 0081 Gubb & Inggs Limited www.stucken.co.za
Wool Traders And Brokers: BKB Ltd Tel: 041 503 3111
[email protected] [email protected] Cape Mohair and Wool (CMW) Tel: 041 486 1143 www.cmw.co.za Junior Steenkamp Wool & Mohair Tel: 041 484 2022 Fax 041 484 2037 Lanata (Pty) Limited Wool/ Mohair Tel: 041 486 2255 / 082 570 3135 www.lantana.co.za Van Lill Woolbuyers Trust (Pty) Ltd Tel: 041 486 1237
7. Local business environment Cape Wools SA supplies an SMS message service supplying market information directly after sales, as well as a weekly market report via e-mail. In South Africa, as in Australia, wool is traded primarily via the open-cry auction system. About 15% of the Australian clip is traded via alternative selling mechanisms (contract growing, forward deliveries, futures, etc.) but in South Africa these mechanisms have not yet found a niche. Wool auctions are characterised by many sellers and few buyers. Buyers normally have to compete for wool over a number of auctions to make up processing batches to meet their clients’ contract specifications in terms of price, quantity and delivery date. Contracts in foreign currencies, such as the Euro or the US dollar, have to be converted to buying limits in rands and the buyer carries the risk. The wool market can be divided into three broad product segments based on mean fibre diameter: • Fine wools (26µ) are mainly used for interior textiles such as furnishings, carpets and bedding products. South African wool does not feature in this product segment. South Africa’s wool clip is, and will probably remain for the foreseeable future, an export commodity in either the unprocessed or semi-processed form. On both value and volume, Europe is the main export destination. The international supply and demand equation is therefore the dynamic which influences local prices, and which needs to be understood in order to take a view on the outlook for prices over the next few years.
9. Farmer news The National Wool Growers Association (NWGA) has brought out a Code of Good Practice, enabling South African Wool to be marketed under a “green standard”. The following is included in the declaration: • • • •
no child labour is used; no sheep are made to trek a distance of 20 km per day; sheep are kept in the shearing shed after being shorn; sheep always have access to sufficient water.
The document is being dispersed among wool farmers for signatures, and will appear in sales catalogues in the new season.
In difficult economic times – advice
Contact the NWGA at 041 365 5030 or visit www.nwga.co.za.
Maintain quality levels – don’t allow them to drop because of low prices. Guard against contamination: when crossbreeding with mutton breeds, use only white sheep. We can’t afford to let our wool be contaminated. If SA wool gets a bad name we may just as well sell our sheep.
10. Small-scale farmer news
For further information please contact: Cape Wools. Tel: 041 484 4301
8. International business environment Find updates on www.capewools.co.za Wool is an export product with over 90% of total production exported in either greasy or semi-processed form (scoureds and wool top). The global price for apparel wool is determined in Australia, the world’s largest supplier of apparel wool, where the largest volumes of wool are traded. South Africa, with its small clip, is therefore a market follower or price taker. Factors affecting prices are exchange rate movements, supply and demand in consumer markets, the relative price for wool compared with other fibres, and fashion trends. At consumer level, wool as a textile fibre is a non-essential product and to some extent a luxury fibre. Economic growth in key consumer markets, consumer confidence and spending patterns, therefore, affect wool pipeline demand. The main wool-exporting countries are Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, the UK, Uruguay and South Africa. The main importers of South African wool are China, Italy, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, India and the UK. South Africa is a full member of the International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO).
Around half of the sheep in the Eastern Cape have always come from the former homeland (communal) regions. Unfortunately, people in these areas received very little for their wool. The NWGA Empowerment and Training Programme aims to ensure sustainable economic wool sheep farming. The programme is progressing well. The main activities include sheep shearing and wool classing, with the emphasis on marketing. Since 1997/1998, the wool income received by communal producers increased by 300%. (R1,5 million during 1997/1998 to R31 million during 2006/2007. Simultaneously with the training programme, the NWGA is also implementing a Genetic Improvement scheme. This consists of three programmes: • the distribution of 3200 quality rams per annum and the removal of the same number of home grown rams; • the establishment of eight group breeding schemes within the communal areas; • the demonstration of sound veld management practices. Through the programme, NWGA upgrades existing infrastructure and creates new infrastructure. They focus on the handling of wool, dealing with animals, animal health, the use of facilities, the marketing of wool, and the organisational components of farming. Source: Elize Pretorius, NWGA Manager Communications (Editor Wool Farmer). Sources: Ona Viljoen; www.capewools.co.za, www.nwga.co.za and other websites listed in this chapter. Our thanks to Ona Viljoen (Cape Wools SA) and Elize Pretorius (NWGA) for feedback on the draft chapter.
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4. Associations and companies involved
Livestock Speciality fibre production 1. Overview Speciality fibres refer in general to those natural hairs or wools that enhance garments in some way, be it in terms of warmth, handle, or lustre. The very nature of many of these fibres is such that the environment in which the animals live contributes to the properties of warmth in particular that makes the fibre “special”. Whilst there are a number of exceptions to the rule, many of the better-known fibres come from either the goat family or the camel family. Speciality fibres are different to Commodity fibres - cotton or standard wool of above 18 microns or so (there are all sorts of new terms for wool finer than 17 microns). When wool gets as low as 15 micron it also becomes a speciality fibre, partly because wool of that fineness is very difficult to grow and very scarce. A major advantage of speciality fibres is that they lend themselves to the big brands and can get the producer closer to the supply chain through direct contracts with processors – as opposed to the open cry auction system used for commodities. We look at three speciality fibres in this chapter – cashmere, alpacas and rabbits. For mohair, please consult the separate chapter. Source: www.heritage-cashmere.co.uk and Roelof Bezuidenhout – rbezu@telkomsa. net
2. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Find contact details and information on the different directorates at www. daff.gov.za
3. Websites and publications • Find the links on www.africanalpacas.co.za e.g. the American and Australian alpaca associations. • www.alpacaseller.co.za – “matching buyers and sellers across South Africa”. • www.llamapaedia.com – Llama and alpaca information • A copy of a basic introduction to Cashmere may be downloaded from www.daff.gov.za (take the “Publications” option) or obtained from the Resource Centre, Directorate Agricultural Information Services Tel: 012 319 7141 • www.cashmere.org – website of the Cashmere and Camel Hair Manufacturers Institute. Technical notes and details of international role-players are provided. • www.wormspit.com – a site about silkworms, silkmoths, and silk. • Available from Kejafa Knowledge Works is the publication Raising Lamas. Visit www.kejafa.co.za or phone 014 577 0005.
African Alpacas Tel: 021 873 0321 / 082 340 2650
[email protected] www.africanalpacas.co.za
Chris Lötz, 084 560 5602, farms with silkworms. Duvets and even make up (silk is rich in fibre) made.
Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Dr Anton Botha Tel: 041 508 3200 www.csir.co.za
Des and Esna have developed “a new, humane style of angora farming” and have stock of high quality in white and many colours.
Makoadi Angora Rabbit Products and services: stud, Handcraft boarding, importation, seminars Tel: 051 943 0278 and farm tours Hair from over 500 Angora rabbits spun by hand. Alpcaca Designs Tel: 011 452 2725 Serena Alpacas – make contact www.alpacadesigns.co.za through the website www. serenaalpacas.co.za. Natural fibres Yolanda Buhr of Paddock in KZN from alpacas, goats, angora rabbits is an established breeder of quality and wild African silk are produced. angora rabbits in white and many colors. Tel 039 679 9106 or email Shibumi Ranch
[email protected] Tel: 083 417 0460 (Dennis)
Research has been done on mohair and cashmere; also on the contribution that indigenous goats can make to the cashmere industry. The Döhne Agricultural Department Institute (ADI) was a research partner. Döhne Agricultural Development Institute Tel: 043 683 1240
SA Alpaca Breeders Society Tel: 011 282 8413 The Society controls breed standards and keeps a register of all Alpacas in South Africa, each being identified by a microchip. The club is registered with the S.A. Studbook Livestock Improvement Association.
SACOYO Alpacas Tel/fax: 021 863 3192
[email protected] Christine Fischer markets www.sacoyo.com scarves from Ethiopia made of a mixture of raw silk and organic Tsakani Wild Silk cotton, handspun and woven, dyed Tel: 013 755 3213 with plant material. Contact her at www.tsakanisilk.co.za
[email protected] John F Marshall Tel: 011 842 7100 www.johnfmarshall.co.za Rabbit Cages and Accessories
5. Cashmere A number of International Roleplayers in cashmere can be found on the Cashmere and Camel Hair Manufacturers Institute website – www. cashmere.org. Cashmere is the fine undercoat or “down ”produced by goats during winter. There is a worldwide shortage of cashmere. Products made from this fibre are in great demand, especially in Western countries. In spite of large fluctuations in both wool and mohair prices internationally, the cashmere market has remained stable. For further information contact the CSIR or Döhne Agricultural Development Institute.
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6. Alpacas Alpacas, llamas, guanacos and vicunas form the group of South American camelids, originating from northern Andean mountains mainly Peru, Chile and Bolivia. Large scale exportations began in the mid 80’s to the other countries including the USA, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, China, and in 2000 into South Africa. Alpaca produces a fine silky fibre. Thickness of baby alpaca might be 1520µ, the average being 22-26µ, and older alpacas over 30µ. It is devoid of the lanoline found in sheep’s wool which causes shearing equipment to overheat. Yield varies from 2-5kg. There are two fibre types: huacaya (over 90%) which grows out of the skin like Marino wool – is crimpy, lustrous and gathered in staples; and Suri which hangs in tight locks without crimp similar to the Angora goat. The fibre is carded and sometimes blended with sheep, silk, angora or other natural fibres. It spins easily and is made into knitted, woven or felted garments. Alpaca come in 12 natural colours – white, fawns, browns, greys and black – but also dye easily into fashion colours. Alpacas are frequently farmed on smaller properties. Stocking rate recommended is10/ha on irrigated pastures. They are intelligent and easily trained. This makes them ideal farm pets. Yet, these child-friendly animals ate used with great success as herd protectors by commercial sheep farmers in the Eastern Cape. They are used especially during the lambing season against the jackal and caracal/rooikat.
7. Rabbits Angora wool is one of the most expensive and desired fashion fibres. Due to its thermal properties the wool is also widely used to manufacture garments worn for the effective relief of pain from arthritis and rheumatism. Angora wool is lightweight and extremely soft, making it ideal as a garment that can be worn close to the skin. It adds a luxurious quality when blended with other fibres such as silk, alpaca, or lamb’s wool. Although not an easy fibre to master, its beauty and rarity lends well to hand-spinning, knitting, and weaving. The wool can be dyed using either acid dyes or natural dyes. Because of the smoothness of the fibre, angora does not absorb dyes as readily as mohair or sheep wool, but the colours can be both intense and very beautiful. Angoras are not slaughtered to yield their primary product, and because they are not intensively bred they live longer productive lives during which both their well-being, and the quality of the wool they carry on their bodies, need to be tended. As a consequence farming methods differ in some ways from those used to produce animals for slaughter. Nevertheless their nature and needs demand the same considerations that should be afforded to all rabbits. Once a farmer has reached optimum herd size only the top animals should be bred in order to replace ageing or inferior stock, and to sell stud stock to a developing market. Those animals that are selectively culled can be consumed on the farm, or supplied to a pre-arranged market. Systematic record keeping and management are essential to sustaining continual improvement. Angoras take longer to reach adult weight than meat rabbits do and therefore do not require the same very expensive high-protein diet. A diet over rich in protein causes a build up of fat deposits resulting in conception and health problems. A large proportion of roughage (fresh vegetables, good hay etc.) supplemented with some protein concentrate is preferable.
A common (and lethal) error made by most rabbit farmers in the past in order to reduce costs has been the tendency to limit the individual space allowed for each rabbit, in terms both of height and floor area. All rabbits need to be able to stand on their rear feet and stretch upwards, and to lie at full stretch to help move intestinal gasses, but angoras more so because of their longevity and high-bulk diets. Cage or pen flooring for angoras should be made of spot-welded galvanised wire mesh that is comfortable to be on but allows droppings to fall through. Floors should be kept free of shed wool and fallen feedstuffs so that spoiled food is not eaten, coats are kept clean, and floors are not blocked. Angoras can be housed singly, or run 4 or 6 in a raised pen – provided they are all of the same age and gender and have enough space for each to be able to claim its territory. Whether housed in suitably protected outdoor hutches, or in buildings, good ventilation and cleanliness are essential practices. Ammonia build-up under cages or hutches causes nasal, chest, and eye irritations. Angoras shed fibres that settle despite good ventilation, and this should be periodically removed by blowtorching or scrubbing. There are two methods of harvesting wool: • Plucking (preferred by most hand-spinners). This is done monthly, or more frequently, by pulling loose wool from the skin. It requires skill to avoid pain or follicle damage. It is laborious, and there is the risk of injury, for large scale production • Shearing (preferred for intensive production). Each rabbit is shorn 3 or 4 times a year. This is performed with very sharp hair dressing scissors, or with electric shears. This ensures even wool growth and simplifies management, and assists maintenance of accurate wool-yield records. It requires care. Managing a viable production unit of angoras to crafted end product employs a range of skills and is very labour intensive. Daily tasks of repairing, feeding, watering, cleaning, breeding, record keeping, grooming, shearing, spinning, knitting, weaving etc., can embrace entire communities or families in profitable enterprise, but only if the necessary skills have been acquired, and if the requisite shelter, water, and foodstuffs are available. Our gratitude to Karoline and Tjaart Steenekamp for information supplied to the project. Contact Karoline at
[email protected] Our thanks to Gavin Lindhorst (African Alpacas) provided feedback on the draft chapter.
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DWEA, through provincial conservation authorities, is responsible for issuing a variety of permits and for setting norms and standards. In addition, it has to create a climate for the strengthening of South Africa as a globally desired hunting destination by facilitating, inter alia, responsible and ethical hunting operations.
Livestock Wildlife ranching Previously the “Game” chapter
1. Overview • Currently, South Africa has about 9 000 wildlife ranches. This number includes big farms, small farms, breeding farms, intensive and extensive farms, covering approximately 20.5 million ha (approximately 16.8% of the total land in South Africa). • South African wildlife ranching is a relatively young economic sector. Growth in the sector has gained momentum during the past three decades because, for the first time, an economic value has been attached to wildlife. Before that, wildlife was seen as an undesirable competitor for limited grazing land. As it became clear that a much wider range of income possibilities could be generated from wildlife, landowners started to realise that wildlife ranching might be an alternative option to, for example, domestic animals or other agricultural activities. • Wildlife ranching provides consumable activities (such as recreational hunting, trophy hunting, biltong and wildlife meat) as well as nonconsumable activities (such as accommodation, breeding material, wildlife viewing, adventure and tourism). Other sub-sectors are the wildlife capturing/translocation industry and taxidermy. • Many conservationists regard the conversion of marginal agricultural land into wildlife ranching as a step towards reverting to more natural systems. • South African wildlife ranching is integrated with other sectors of the economy – the agricultural sector on the one hand and tourism and conservation on the other. The wildlife sector claims that it makes a large contribution towards conservation because it is in its interest to preserve wildlife. There is more wildlife in South Africa at present than at any other time in the past 150 years. Source: excerpts from a National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) report by Schalk Burger. Contact him at 012 341 1115 or visit www.namc.co.za
2. National strategy and government departments Both the national Departments of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) and Water and Environmental Affairs (DWEA) are significant roleplayers in the wildlife and hunting sectors. While DAFF leads agricultural production (including wildlife husbandry), DWEA leads environmental conservation. The latter plays a most important role with regard to resource utilisation, as demonstrated by the appointment of a panel of experts to advise on appropriate norms and standards for hunting (both professional and recreational). DWEA • (Eco) tourism • Conservation • Protected areas development • Wildlife • Enforcement of legislation/ compliance
DAFF • Labour, land and land tax issues • Wildlife meat • Diseases • Wildlife • Veterinary services • Enforcement • Extension services (extending knowledge)
The primary role of the National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) is to advise the Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. The mandate of the NAMC is contained in the Marketing of Agricultural Products Act, 1996 (the MAP Act). The MAP Act declared wildlife and its products as agricultural products for the purposes of the Act. Since 1995 the Department of Agriculture (now DAFF) has also regarded wildlife ranching as an agricultural activity.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has as its prime responsibility the enhancement of international trade. Find contact details for all government departments at www.info.gov.za
3. Roleplayers Find details of the Professional Hunters’ Association of South Africa (PHASA), the Confederation of Hunters Associations of South Africa (CHASA) and other associations in the hunting chapter. Animal Handling Support Systems Tel: 0861 ANIMAL (264 625) www.animalhandling.co.za Bushveld Eco Services Tel: 014 717 3819 www.bushveldeco.co.za Game farming assessments Camdeboo Meat Processors Tel: 0800 214 787
[email protected] www.camdeboo.co.za Wildlife Meat (fresh meat) The Commercial Taxidermists and Game Skin Tanners of South Africa Tel: 012 650 0000
HOTSURE Products and services: • Livestock monitor & track collars • Wildlife research collars • Game monitor & track collars • Hiker monitor & tracker • Hunter monitor & tracker • Guard monitor & tracker • Vehicle monitor & tracker • Container tracker • Trailer monitor & tracker • Small asset tracker • Alarm monitor • Wireless automator • Freezer monitor (mobile & fixed) • Web based GIS monitor & command
The benefits include: • animal health remote monitoring • precision grazing and veld utilisation monitoring • livestock and game remote Endangered Wildlife Trust monitoring (eco-tourism, (EWT) health & safety) Tel: 011 486 1102 • research tool as well as Fax: 011 486 1506 monitoring the research www.ewt.org.za subject. • estrus and bull performance Equistar monitoring Tel: 011 660 5505 • farm tomation www.equistar.co.za • movable asset usage monitoring “Bringing peace of mind to the game, wildlife, livestock, equine • remote freezer/cooler and eco-tourism industries” monitoring (mobile & fixed) • farm security (alarm Game Rangers’ Association of monitoring and personal Africa protection) Tel: 013 735 6639 • guard, herder, hiker & hunter www.gameranger.org monitoring • vehicle usage monitoring and HOTSURE tracking Tel: 0861 HOTSURE (468 787) • produce temperature Fax: 086 640 5744 monitoring during transport
[email protected] • farm planning and natural www.hotsure.co.za resource utilisation management Biotelemetry solutions for proactive risk management and precision farming. Eastern Cape Game Management Association Tel: 041 922 7618 www.ecgma.co.za
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National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) Wildlife Unit Tel: 011 907 3590/1/2 www.nspca.co.za National issues and problems are addressed through the development of standards and codes of practice for the benefit of animals within the wildlife ranching industry, physical inspections of game auctions and game capture operations, wildlife rescue operations, lobbying to outlaw unethical practices, and assisting member societies with wildlife issues in their respective areas. PricewaterhouseCoopers Agri Industry Group Kobie Bekker (National Leader) Tel: 023 346 5502 As trusted business adviser the Agri Industry Group focuses on providing specialist services e.g. tax, accounting, entrepreneurial advice, internal audits etc. Safari Club International (Africa Office) Tel: 012 663 8073 Fax: 012 663 8075
[email protected] South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) Standards Information Centre Tel: 012 428 6925 Fax: 012 428 6928
South African Institute of Ecologists and Environmental Sciences Tel: 021 789 1385 www.saiees.org South African National Parks (SANParks) Tel: 012 426 5000 www.parks-sa.co.za Southern African Wildlife Management Association Tel: 021 554 1297
[email protected] www.sawma.co.za Stud Game Breeders Tel: 083 778 0628 www.studgamebreeders.co.za Taxidermy Association of South Africa (TASA) Tel: 051 443 8621 (secretary)
[email protected] www.taxidermysa.com TNH Wildlife Tel: 082 890 9993 / 074 114 8651 Fax: 086 519 0124
[email protected] www.tnhwildlife.com Fencing materials, wildlife and electric fence installations, solar electricity, GIS mapping and the supply and application of herbicides are some of the animal and wildlife management services offered by TNH.
TRAFFIC International TRAFFIC East/Southern Africa Tel: 011 486 1102 The Game Standard SANS 10331,
[email protected] obtainable from SABS, covers www.traffic.org aspects of the translocation, such as the capture, transportation, The TRAFFIC Network is the temporary accommodation and world’s largest wildlife trade release, of wild herbivores such as monitoring programme with offices antelope, elephant, rhino, hippo, covering most parts of the world. giraffe and zebra. The document TRAFFIC is a joint programme run can also be viewed at www.nspca. by the WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) and IUCN (The World co.za.
Conservation Union) and aims to ensure that the trade in wild plants and animals does not impinge on nature conservation. The TRAFFIC Network works in close co-operation with the Secretariat of the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and also collaborates with a wide range of other partners, including the IUCN Species Survival Commission, various governments and many other organisations. Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) Tel: 033 330 3931
[email protected] www.wessa.org.za Wildlife Ranching SA (WRSA) Tel: 012 335 6994
[email protected] www.wrsa.co.za WRSA is the official mouthpiece of game farmers whose farms are situated in South Africa. WRSA negotiates benefits for game farmers with provincial authorities, assist with firearm and renewal licenses, compliance with exemptions for game farms and transport of livestock, annual game auctions and training courses i.e. meat processing, tanning of skin, game farm management meat inspectors, etc. For further information refer to www.wrsa. co.za. The Wildlife Translocation Association (WTA) Tel: 016 341 2534
[email protected] www.wta.org.za The WTA is the organisation in South Africa that represents wildlife capturing operators. All members have to adhere to the WTA’s Code
of Conduct and have their equipment regularly inspected. There are no figures available, but it is estimated that about 70 000 animals are captured and translocated annually. Some observations: • The movement of live wildlife is subject to a permit system controlled by the relevant provincial authorities. The slow processing of permit applications and other legislative burdens are often regarded as impractical and as a result capture teams move wildlife illegally. It is estimated that up to 50% of the movement of wildlife animals is done illegally. • Licence and permit application costs are “excessive” – the operator who moves animals illegally without a permit thus gains an unfair advantage. • There is a shortage of qualified state personnel to police capturing and translocation operations. • Recognised operational standards are required as animals can be injured or die during the capturing and translocation process or shortly afterwards. • Wild animals that have been captured are prone to physical injuries and mental stress and should be handled and offloaded most sensitively as soon as possible after capture. WWF South Africa (World Wide Fund) Tel: 021 888 2800 Fax: 021 888 2888 www.panda.org.za
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4. Training and research
5. Websites and publications
Find details of South African Journal of Wildlife Research under the “Publications and websites” heading
Africa Nature Training Tel: 012 667 5440 www.AfricaNatureTraining.co.za
SANWILD Tel: 015 318 7900 www.sanwild.org
Agricultural Research Council Deon Furstenburg Tel: 012 672 9322
[email protected]
Anti-poaching training for wildlife rangers
Bushwise Tel: 015 793 2989 / 083 565 7387 www.bushwise.co.za The Game Capture School Tel: 014 743 3051 / 082 825 8735 www.gamecapture.info Ghoenaskraal Training Centre Moetsie du Plessis – 083 272 7486 Piet du Plessis - 083 272 7485 www.ghoenaskraal.co.za
South African Wildlife College Tel: 015 793 7300 www.wildlifecollege.org.za Tshwane University for Technology Brian Reilly Tel: 012 382 5306 / 5215 www.tut.ac.za University of the Free State www.ufs.ac.za
Department of Genetics Prof JP Grobler Courses are presented for farm Tel: 051 401 2776 owners and workers and include
[email protected] training in processing of game meat, hunting guide training and a Department Animal, Wildlife and one-day game tanning course. Grassland Sciences Prof HO de Waal Grassland Society of South Tel: 051 401 2210 Africa (GSSA) Tel: 049 842 4335 Department Zoology &
[email protected] Entomology www.grassland.org.za Prof OB Kok Tel: 051 401 2489 Impala Field Guide Training
[email protected] Tel: 014 735 0361 www.impalatraining.co.za University of KwaZulu-Natal Botany and Zoology Unit International School of Tanning Rob Slotow Technology Tel: 033 260 6086 Tel: 046 622 7310 www.ukzn.ac.za
[email protected] University of Pretoria Nelson Mandela Metropolitan www.up.ac.za University (NMMU) Centre for Wildlife Management Agriculture and Game Ranch Tel: 012 420 2627 Management Tel: 041 801 5018 Animal and Wildlife Sciences
[email protected] Tel: 012 420 3271 School of Natural Resource Conservation Ecology Research Management (Saasveld Campus) Unit (CERU) Tel: 044 801 5043 Tel: 012 420 2753 Fax: 044 801 5031 National Diploma and B. Tech Mammal Research Institute degree offered in Game Ranch Tel: 012 420 3776 Management University of the Witwatersrand North West University Animal, Plant and Environmental Potchefstroom Campus Sciences (APES) Tel: 018 299 1351 / 1433 Tel: 011 717 6404 Tel: 018 299 1812/1810
Refer to the publication Wildlife Ranching in South Africa , July 2008. Department of Agriculture. Contact: Victor Musetha (VictorMu@daff. gov.za) or Keith Ramsay (
[email protected]). Articles include: • Calculation of grazing capacity and browse capacity for game species – Prof G N Smit • Game ranching or game breeding & the Biodiversity Act. Where to now ? – R Saayman • Implementation of regulations relating to listed threatened or protected species (TOPS) – Magdel Boshoff, DEAT. • Naturally occurring common spcies – an overview – Deon Furstenburg • The treatment of game – Dr Pierre Nel • The role of captive facilities in wildlife ranching – Antoinette,Kotze, Craig Allengy & Dave Morgan. • Assisted reproduction technology (ART) for the conservation and genetic management of wildlife – Dr Ronnie de la Rey of Embryo Plus. • The role of the Department of Agriculture in the development of a sustainable wildlife ranching sector in South Africa – Dr Keith A Ramsay and Victor Musetha. • SA Wingshooterss – a profile • Wingshooters and rural community development. • Guidelines for importing and exporting animals and genetic material. Report on the investigation to identify problems for sustainable growth and development in South African Wildlife Ranching. 2006.Contact: Schalk Burger, The National Agricultural l Marketing Council (NAMC), SchalkB@namc. co.za The magazine Game & Hunt is an independent monthly publication aimed at promoting the sustainable utilisation of South Africa’s wildlife. Game & Hunt serves the entire spectrum of the game industry, including game ranchers, hunters and nature lovers. Visit www.wildlifehunt.co.za or call 012 348 5550. SA Journal of Wildlife Research – www.sawma.co.za. Contact Mrs Elma Marais at 021 554 1297 or
[email protected] Find the frequent articles in the agricultural weeklies – Landbouweekblad and Farmer’s Weekly – or visit the websites www.landbou.com and www. farmersweekly.co.za The following publications are available from Bryan Pierce (phone 011 954 4675 or 082 488 5081): • The Capture, Care & Management of Wildlife. Mike le Grange. • Game Farming and Wildlife Management. Young. Kejafa Knowledge Works stock game publications including Game Capture and Relocation Guide. Contact them at 014 577 0005 or visit www.kejafa. co.za • Various post-graduate dissertations at University libraries. • J du P Bothma. 2002. Game ranch management. 4th edition. Van Schaik. ISBN 0-627-02471-8. • J du P Bothma. 2005. Intensive wildlife production in southern Africa. Van Schaik. ISBN 0-627-02549-8. D Furstenburg. 1996-2006. Game series in “Game & Hunt”, www. wildlifehunt.co.za Also available on CD “The Wildlife CD” www.wildlifecd. co.za or Tel: 012 348 5550.
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The Info Pak (booklet) Diseases shared by Wildlife and Livestock, available from the ARC-OVI and DAFF, explores links between the various animals and diseases like African swine fever and corridor disease. Find the publication at www.daff.gov.za Other websites: • www.aata-animaltransport.org – Animal Transportation Association • www.ifaw.org – International Fund for Animal Welfare • www.wildnetafrica.biz and www.wildnetafrica.com – tourism and marketing websites • www.africanconservation.org – the African Conservation Foundation. • The profitability of game ranches versus stock farming is well documented in the Absa Economic research report with the full text available at www.absa.co.za
6. Local business environment Five methods are used in South Africa for trading with wildlife, namely: 1) Private sales negotiated between the buyer and the seller (Professional wildlife catchers play an important role by translocating the animals.) 2) Public live wildlife auctions 3) Public wildlife catalogue auctions 4) The tender system (This method is used mainly by municipalities that own wildlife and nature reserves. The SANParks calls for tenders to buy animals like elephants and rhinoceros.) 5) Electronic auctions
7. Considerations for the interested farmer Capital outlay To develop a wildlife ranch or convert a livestock farm into a wildlife ranch requires major capital investments in fencing, stocking and other infrastructure. To fence a property for wildlife ranching is very expensive. The height of the fences will be 1.2 m, 1.8 m or 2.4 m depending on the type of wildlife kept, and the cost of new fencing could be as much as R30 000 per km. Once a property is fenced in terms of the minimum standards required by Nature Conservation, an exemption certificate is issued that is valid for a period of three years. This allows the holder or owner to hunt, capture and sell particular species of wild animals all year round on the exempted property. Without an exemption certificate hunting is restricted to the hunting season, from March to September.
The cost of stocking a property with wildlife may also be regarded as an inhibiting factor. The rare species are animals that were almost extinct three decades ago. They have been bred at such a rate that there is currently no fear that they will become extinct. These animals are now available at high prices which are determined by the market. The expectations of sellers are also high, with the result that they prefer to keep the animals rather than sell them at lower prices. The numbers of these animals are therefore steadily increasing. In 1984 the cost of a white rhino was approximately R800, whereas the record price for a white rhino was R450 000 in 2005. If the wildlife rancher wants to expand into accommodation, infrastructure developments to provide this service also require a major capital outlay. Demarcated areas The conservation of the local environment as outlined in the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act guards against the movement of wildlife to unsuitable habitats. One of the main inhibiting factors in South African wildlife management is demarcated areas. This regulation means that wildlife ranchers are prohibited from keeping particular wildlife species in specific areas because these areas are not regarded as natural habitats for those species. Wildlife ranchers want to be allowed to farm with whatever indigenous species they choose even though some reports might indicate that a species did not occur in a particular area a hundred years ago. They argue, further, that market forces will dictate the resettlement of wildlife. If wildlife is translocated to unsuitable habitats or with incorrect herd compositions, this will result in low reproduction and eventually the enterprise will become uneconomic. Lastly, they argue that similar restrictions do not apply to other herbivorous animals such as cattle, sheep and goats. The restrictions on freedom of movement of live animals (based on historical occurrence) are therefore seen as counter-productive and not economically friendly. To increase the existing area for wildlife could assist the wildlife base to secure sustainable growth. Our gratitude to Schalk Burger (National Agricultural Marketing Council) for valuable input. Additional valuable sources of information: Investigation by the Wildlife Section 7 Committee into the marketing potential for South African wildlife ranching; Wildlife Ranching in South Africa National Department of Agriculture July 2008. Thanks to Dr Gert Dry and Reinhardt Holtzhausen (Wildife Ranching SA) and Elma Marais (SA Wildlife Management Association) for feedback on the draft chapter.
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Marketing and finance Agribusinesses and “New Generation” agricultural co-operatives 1. Overview Co-operative societies were originally established to enable farmers who had clubbed together to gain enough capital to buy equipment in bulk and to sell their produce. The aim of these societies was to increase the profits of farmers. This they would do by getting best market prices for produce, finding new markets and buying equipment in bulk. South Africa faced a decade of change in the 1990’s. The socio-political changes made world headlines. There were other changes too: domestic economic deregulation, removal of quantitative import controls in terms of GATT (General Agreement of Tariffs & Trade)/WTO (World Trade Organisation) agreements, and the opening up of South African agriculture to the forces of globalisation culminated in the scrapping of the Agricultural Marketing Act. Co-operatives were now permitted to have non-farmers as members and directors, as well as to move from the area in which their members farmed – provided they converted into companies. This legislation was received with mixed emotions. Some co-operatives that decided to convert found themselves in hefty disputes with individual farmers. These farmers felt that the new companies would now switch their priorities from primarily looking at the interests of farmers to concentrating on those of investors (Agri-companies had to become profit driven to ensure that non-farming shareholders make returns on their investments). There were arguments for: non-agricultural shareholders would inject more capital into the entity than farmers could have injected into a co-operative. They could also bring business and management expertise with them. Some of these conversions resulted in farmers selling their shares and surrendering management of their former co-operatives. Some co-operatives that planned to become companies changed their minds: capital structures were satisfactory or they were secure in a market niche. The environment which had become increasingly competitive saw consolidation, and some infringement on each other’s territory – not a characteristic of their operations up until then. Agricultural businesses play a significant role in the economy as handlers, processors and marketers of agricultural products, and as suppliers of production inputs and services. In addition, they are major employers, developers and sources of added value. In many rural areas, they are the business hub of the community and make a key contribution to maintaining the rural infrastructure. Agribusinesses, including co-operatives, provide a wide range of products and services. Largely products consist of commodities since the original role lay mainly in the first stage of processing of farm products. Apart from the supplying of agricultural inputs, services now go further. Marketing, for example, by assisting farmers to get the best price for their crops. Farmers are helped to manage risk, and have their grain stored. Financial services also continue to be an important aspect although commercial banks are increasingly encroaching on this traditional role.
2. Associations involved Agricultural Business Chamber (ABC) Tel: 012 807 6686 Fax: 012 807 5600 www.agbiz.co.za The Agricultural Business Chamber (ABC) represents agricultural companies, agricultural co-operatives in the developing agricultural sector; companies which arose out of the conversion of agricultural co-operatives; and other agricultural business enterprises and organisations. The ABC strives to support its member organisations by creating an environment within which they are enabled to operate as competitive and innovative business enterprises. The ABC is affiliated to Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) in partnership with Agri SA, and the NEPAD Business Foundation (NBF), while maintaining close links with international organisations such as the International Federation of Agricultural Producers (IFAP), the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the International Food and Agribusiness Management Association (IAMA).
3. Websites and publications • A newsletter is available from the Agricultural Business Chamber (contact details under heading 2). The newsletter can also be found under the Publications menu option at www.agbiz.co.za • The magazine SA Koöp/SA Co-op is available from 018 293 0622. You can fax 018 294 4221 or send an email to
[email protected] [email protected] • Find the website of the International Food and Agribusiness Management Association at www.ifama.org • “Expanding business linkages worldwide” – visit the EMRC website: www.emrc.be • Find the article “Agrologistics at home and aboard” on www. tradeinvestafrica.com, which looks at agribusinesses in Africa. • The different agribusinesses put out an assortment of their own publications, videos, websites. • The share prices of agro companies can be found on www.landbou. com, the electronic arm of the Landbouweekblad magazine.
4. A look at five agribusinesses AFGRI Operations Limited Tel: 012 664 8000 www.afgri.co.za PO Box 11054 CENTURION 0046 Growing from a solid co-operative base evolving over 90 years, AFGRI has become South Africa’s leading agricultural services provider and the only JSElisted agricultural company. As a black empowered company, AFGRI offers a wide range of services, skills and expertise. The company’s unique ability to develop hi-tech practical business solutions, supported by its wealth of resources and coupled with intellectual capital to provide innovative tailor made solutions, sets AFGRI apart from its competitors. AFGRI’s core business consists of three main divisions: Agri Services, Financial Services and Foods.
Agri Services This division consists of AFGRI Logistics Services, which includes logistics and trading, and AFGRI Producer services, which focuses on retail and primary inputs.
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AFGRI Logistic Services Logistical and general transport services are offered to a wide customer base, via a network of transport contractors and AFGRI’s own fleet. The handling and storage infrastructure consists of 67 grain silos across the country, with a total capacity of over four million tons. Through leading edge world class technologies in silo inventory management, bunker silo storage and electronic silo certificates, AFGRI is positioned as the leader in the handling and storage of grain. The Trading unit offers the Southern African grain industry, including processors, traders and producers, an extensive range of grain and commodity trading services. AFGRI Producer Services AFGRI’s Retail Services provides a full range of agri, outdoor and DIY, home and garden products and services to farmers, week-end farmers, smallholding owners and the general public at more than 60 stores. AFGRI’s Primary Inputs is a direct supplier of diesel, fertiliser, seed and agrichemicals, and also provides advisory services. AFGRI Equipment is the largest John Deere agency in the Southern Hemisphere.
AFGRI Financial Services Tailor-made financial solutions for farmers, processors and consumers of agricultural products are offered through AFGRI Capital and AFGRI Broking. AFGRI Capital Structured Finance specialises in creating client specific credit products and services to meet the evolving needs of businesses operating within the trade and commodity environment, both nationally and cross border. The Corporate Finance Department is a leading provider of innovative and customised financing solutions to the secondary agricultural sector, mainly within South Africa. Our expertise extends to grain, timber, sugar, fruit, tobacco and other agricultural commodities. AFGRI Insurance Brokers are specialists in farm and crop insurance, and also offer business and personal insurance with dedicated client service and reliable advice. AFGRI Broking This department offers price risk and hedging solutions for producers and consumers of agricultural products. Risk management services include price risk management through various term and option contracts, low hedging costs on both national and international markets, and effective SAFEX broker services at competitive rates, together with market related updates (local and international supply and demand figures; MTM daily; weather and other related information).
AFGRI Foods AFGRI Foods is subdivided into AFGRI Animal Protein (animal feeds and broilers), and AFGRI Oil and Protein. AFGRI Animal Protein AFGRI Animal Feeds operates six animal feed mills in Mpumalanga, Gauteng, the Free State, Western and the Eastern Cape. They continue to grow through technologically advanced products and value added services. Daybreak Farms forms part of AFGRI Foods’ strategy to expand in broiler production. The company currently processes 650 000 broilers on a weekly basis. Broilers are grown on the company’s own farms and by contract growers on specially formulated high performance diets from AFGRI Animal Feeds. Daybreak Farms supplies the wholesale and retail markets with frozen chickens products under the ‘Superior’ brand. AFGRI Oil and Protein Nedan is the market leader in Southern Africa in the processing of soya beans and cotton seed. They are a bulk supplier to the industrial food and related industries in Southern Africa, processing soya beans and cotton seed into edible oils and fats, soya and cotton protein for animal feed, high protein defatted soya flour, and texturised soya protein for human consumption. AFGRI’s three divisions enable the company to have a complete picture of how business and agriculture fit together, and allow it to provide the
best possible services to all its clients. AFGRI will continue to invest in technology, expertise and its clients. With this kind of dedication, growth is the natural outcome.
GWK Ltd Tel: 053 298 8200 Fax: 053 298 3968 www.gwk.co.za GWK is a sustainable agricultural business that delivers an excellent service to agricultural in the Northern Cape province of South Africa. Their production area includes 90 000 ha of irrigation farming alongside the Vaal-, Orange-, Riet- and Harts rivers. A map is available on www.gwk.co.za. GWK’s core business includes: • collective marketing of a unique range of products including maize, wheat, oilseeds, cotton, dried beans, potatoes, olives, wine, meat industry through abattoir businesses and live stock auctions; • financing of shareholders and buyers; • an all-inclusive Insurance Service; • provision of production inputs through retail and mechanisation outlet. The website gives overviews of the business branches and subsidiaries which includes the marketing of Information Technology and computer systems.
Kaap Agri Head Office Tel: 022 482 8000 Fax: 022 482 8008 www.kaapagri.co.za Hardap Office Tel: +264 63 24 0809 Fax: +264 63 24 0459 Kaap Agri is an agricultural services group which supplies a variety of products and services mainly to the agricultural sector, but also to the general public. This public company has gone from strength to strength, supporting the agricultural community at over 100 business points in 62 cities, towns and places mainly in the country districts, but include several branches in the bigger metropolitan areas. The activities of agricultural customers are widely diversified and include small grain, pasturage, table and wine grapes, vegetables, stone fruit, citrus, meat, milk, wool, potatoes and other agricultural divisions. Kaap Agri is also the largest shareholder (32%) in Pioneer Food Group Limited, a listed group that is involved in the manufacturing of food, beverages and related products for human and animal consumption. Our greatest asset is our people. Their extensive experience in a wide range of agricultural fields and diverse abilities, from negotiating on volume to insurance cover, offer great support and advice to the communities they work in. We believe in constantly investing in our 1 400 employees through training and skills development as well as talent management and career growth. Our company stands for integrity and transparency in all our dealings. We place a high premium on conscious awareness of nature and on the impact we have on our environment. The actions of today affect generations to come and we pride ourselves on designing sustainable solutions that will make sound environmental sense well into the future. Our busines philosophy is to create prosperity for all our interested parties and to empower our personnel. We also strive to maintain reasonability, fairness and equality. We want to give back what we take out: to our people, our environment and our stakeholders. Nothing grows without nurturing. We provide a comprehensive service to the farming community including: Agrimark stores – Kaap Agri has outlets across Western Cape, Northern Cape and now in Namibia. Our well-established infrastructure and technological systems make for a cost-effective one-stop-store of supplies and farming necessities. This includes fertiliser, chemicals, feed and hardware as well as tools, garden requisites, outdoor life, DIY and other related products. Through a central buying division we buy at competitive
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prices, which enable us to deliver at a good price. Two fuel depots distribute a complete range of fuel products at a very competitive price, delivering on time.
expand and improve its services to members and shareholders. With a turnover of more than R2 billion annually it is a financially viable company that has made its name in agriculture over the past 16 years.
Liquormark – Kaap Agri has established Liquormark shops conveniently situated next to certain Agrimark stores. These outlets provide a comfortable and neat buying experience at competitive prices.
OVK is operational in a diversified agricultural field. It includes high potential agronomy, irrigation under centre pivots, planted pasture, large and small livestock, dairy and beef cattle, horses and ostriches. Its 44 commercial branches cover the entire region, supplying everything that a farmer needs.
Agrilog – Handles all imports of products for sales through our Agrimark, Pakmark and Mechanisation trading points. Agrilog’s distribution centre is in Paarl with satellites in Upington, Hardap and Windhoek through which Agrimark stores and Mechanisation are serviced. Group Product Management – Manages the value chain of all products. This includes the negotiation with suppliers and the implementation of trade agreements as well as the development and implementation of marketing and growth strategy for each product range. Agriplas irrigation – the irrigation department, Agriplas, is a world leader in irrigation. We also manufacture plastic drop line, micro-spray equipment, valves and other irrigation equipment of world-class quality, specifically developed for the local market. Financial services – a wide range of financing is provided to cover the needs of our clients. The products vary from deposit accounts to seasonal facilities with negotiable terms. Service is a top priority and our credit function is decentralised to bring the service closer to our clients. We provide personal service and consider personal needs, since we know that great vision needs financial backing. There are currently ten regional financing offices. Mechanisation – Kaap Agri has nine mechanisation service points across its operating area in South Africa, providing a complete mechanisation product range. The company has a geographically well-established infrastructure, plus a engineering workshop. Spraying machines and tillage implements are imported directly from manufacturers as part of the total package we offer. Kaap Agri Mechanisation is also an agent for Maksimal fork lifts and New Holland light construction implements. Pakmark - Kaap Agri’s Pakmark division is the biggest supplier of packaging material nationally and has large storage capacity and excellent infrastructure. We supply a wide variety of packaging material for export as well as for the local market with all the components regarding carton insides, packaging and palletising. Packaging material is bought from selected suppliers on the basis of best quality and competitive prices. Buying can be financed until after harvest. Product and agricultural extension services – Kaap Agri has storage capacity of approximately 320 000 tons. In addition to the 14 silo complexes of which 13 are Safex registered trading points, we also have four processing plants situated in Darling, Malmesbury, Porterville and Vredendal. These plants process small-grain seed and dried beans. The Malmesbury plant is considered amongst the best in the country. Although not involved in the processing of seed potatoes, we trade in seed potatoes, primarily from the Sandveld and Ceres regions. Kaap Agri’s grain-trading division is responsible for the marketing of small grain and oil seed, supported by agricultural advisory services. Insurance – Kaap Agri has a minority interest in RSA Agri Brokers (Pty) Ltd, an insurance brokerage which covers the full spectrum of short-term insurance with specialist products for the agricultural sector. It also has agencies with various insurers. Chemical, Fuel, Fertiliser – we provide a comprehensive package to the farmer plus financing linked to harvest. We strive to keep the supply chain as short as possible and to deliver personal specialist advice in every area. Black Enonomic Empowerment (BEE) – Kaap Agri supports black economic empowerment and has plotted its own map.These plans focus mainly on internal training, development and promotion, as well as assistance, training and support to emerging farmers. Kaap Agri has a training academy in Porterville.
Oos-Vrystaat Kaap Operations Limited (OVK) Tel: 051 923 4500 Fax: 051 923 4584 www.ovk.co.za OVK, with its head office in Ladybrand, is a prominent agricultural company in the Free State, Eastern and Northern Cape that continually strives to
OVK offers a variety of services dealing with every aspect of agriculture: • Grain handling, storage and marketing; • Supplying all means of production and hardware a farmer may need; • Mechanisation (tractors, implements, parts and work shops – agent for New Holland and CASE); • Financing for clients – production and monthly accounts and hirepurchase; • Agricultural services; • Crop and short term insurance; • Live stock marketing and Gariep Abattoir for slaughtering of cattle, sheep and game; • Toyota vehicle agencies in Ficksburg and Ladybrand; • Tyre services; • Delivery of fuel to farmers; • Maize and wheat mill.
Suidwes Group Tel: 018 581 1000 Fax: 018 581 1097 www.suidwes.co.za The Suidwes Group includes the companies Suidwes Holdings Limited, Suidwes Investments Limited, Suidwes Agriculture (Proprietary) Limited, Suidwes Industries (Proprietary) Limited and Suidwesfin (Proprietary) Limited. Suidwes offers various agricultural products and services to farmers in the North-West Free State and the western areas of the North-West Province. The company strives to satisfy clients’ agricultural needs and has over time made alterations and adjustments, not only to the type of service the Company renders, but also to the geographical area within which it operates. Changing circumstances and needs of clients are looked after by means of innovative marketing and financial products and services that include technologically advanced agricultural support services. Today, Suidwes’ farmer customers are regarded as some of the most advanced farmers with regards to the application of scientific farming methods. To assure that Suidwes satisfies these needs and constantly delivers excellent service, its personnel always keeps abreast of the latest research methods, tendencies and developments. This is supported by certain values which include integrity, transparency, ethics, loyalty as well as fair and consistent conduct. The Company, that was founded on the 16th of August 1909 celebrated its centenary in 2009 in style. Various specially selected projects were successfully presented the company, with a stylish centenary celebratory function as main event. The company’s head office is in Leeudoringstad in the North-West Province. Through its trade divisions Suidwes Grain, Suidwesfin, Wesmark, Wesmeg and Terratek, Suidwes delivers a diversified and competitive range of products and services to agricultural producers, which include: • • • • • • •
the handling and storage of grain; the marketing of grain and derivatives; the marketing of primary agricultural inputs through outlets; animal feeds depots; the provision of credit; insurance brokers; the marketing of mechanical goods with the support of parts centres and workshops.
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Suidwes Grain specialises in the handling and marketing of grain. 16 Silo’s, two bunkers and one storage dam are strategically placed throughout the Company’s operational area. Grain is dried, fumigated and transported by expert personnel who stay abreast with the latest methods in these fields – with the goal to deliver the best possible service to Suidwes’ customers. Wesmark is the trademark through which primary inputs and agricultural requirements are marketed. The geographical distribution of the 17 trade outlets and one animal feed depot is ideal to deliver effective service to customers over a large area.
to reduce risks and increase profits. This division presents a complete series of agricultural services, including soil science, agronomy, animal science, rangeland science, game farm management, geographical information systems and agricultural economics. It includes precision farming and irrigation services, as well as bureau services and facilitating of research projects on farms. Area
The Suidwes Group’s mechanical business operates under the Wesmeg trademark. Services include marketing of agricultural machines and equipment, as well as supplying parts and repair services for mechanical equipment through six workshops and parts centres. Wesmeg also provides farmers’ requirements regarding modern, progressive precision farming equipment. Suidwesfin provides financing through monthly accounts, production credit, installment sale agreements and short-term insurance for farmers, as well financings of grain for buyers. Suidwesfin constantly researches alternative sources and methods of financing to cover their customers’ financial requirements. Terratek is a young and dynamic division within the Suidwes Group that focuses on wealth creation of customers, within and outside the bigger picture of Suidwes as company. Terratek offers agricultural services based on a technologically-driven and integrated basis, focused on increased efficiency, greater effectiveness and more precision in all facets of farming,
Please note: The darker and coloured areas represent the areas where Suidwes is currently operational. Suidwes farmer-shareholders can be found in the light green areas too. Source: Adri Theron.
Vrystaat Koöperasie Beperk (VKB) The history of VKB reaches back almost 90 years since it was founded. VKB’s main area is traditionally the North Eastern Free State and consists of 43 operating outlets. In the past year VKB obtained an interest in NTK Limpopo Agric Limited, which consists of 42 operating outlets. VKB is therefore, through its interest in NTK, well positioned for business opportunities to Botswana and Zimbabwe, while the Eastern Free State location is excellently located for imports and exports through Durban. VKB was selected for the second consecutive year as one of the Top 5 agricultural businesses in the country, and with an average turnover of approximately R2 billion per annum and a favourable balance sheet, VKB is considered to be one of the most financially sound agricultural businesses. VKB is involved in the total provision chain of the producer and offers specialised services to its members such as: •handling and storage of grain • marketing of grain • trade activities • provision of inputs • mechanisation needs (tractors, implements, parts and workshops) • financing • insurance • agriculture-economical services • agricultural services VKB also fulfils an important role as effective link between agriculture producers and commercial business. VKB’s head office is situated in Reitz. Tel: 058 863 8111 E-mail:
[email protected] Website: www.vkb.co.za
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5. Companies involved AFGRI – see heading 4 BKB Ltd Tel: 041 503 3111 www.bkb.co.za Ceres Koelkamers Ltd Tel: 023 315 5003
NCT Forestry Co-operative Ltd Tel: 033 897 8500 www.ctctimber.co.za NTK Limpopo Agric Ltd Tel: 014 719 9211 www.ntk.co.za
Coastals Farmers Co-operative NWK Ltd Ltd Tel: 018 633 1000 Tel: 031 508 8000 www.nwk.co.za www.coastals.co.za Oranjerivierwynkelders Fraserburg Co-operative Ltd (Koöperatief) Bpk. Tel: 023 741 1014 Tel: 054 337 8800 www.ornajerivierwynkelders.net Gamtoos Tobacco Cooperative Oos Vrystaat Kaap (OVK) Tel: 042 283 0305 Tel: 051 923 4500 www.ovk.co.za GWK – see heading 4 Overberg Agri Tel: 028 214 3800 Highveld Egg Co-operative www.overbergagri.co.za Ltd Tel: 018 293 0694 Sentraal-Suid Co-operative Fax: 018 293 0168 Ltd (SSK) Tel: 028 514 8611 Humansdorpse Koöperasie www.ssk.co.za Beperk Tel: 042 295 1082 Senwes www.humkoop.co.za Tel: 018 464 7800 www.senwes.co.za Kaap Agri – see heading 4 Kango Co-operative Ltd Tel: 044 272 6065 www.kangowines.com
Southern African Milk Cooperation Ltd Tel: 021 886 4730 www.samelko.co.za
Karoo Vleisboere Koöperasie Bpk Tel: 053 621 0162
Suidwes – see heading 4
Klein Karoo International (KKI) Tel: 044 203 5100 www.kleinkaroo.com Koup Produsente Kooperasie Bpk Tel: 023 551 1083 KLK Agriculture Ltd Tel: 054 337 6200 www.klk.co.za MGK Operating Company (Pty) Ltd Tel: 012 381 2800 www.mgk.co.za Malelane Citrus Co-operative Ltd Tel: 013 790 0391
Sutherlandse Landboukoöperasie Tel: 023 571 1001 Taurus Stock Improvement Co-operative Ltd Tel: 012 667 1122 www.taurus.co.za Tuinroete Agri Beperk Tel: 044 601 1200 www.tagri.co.za TWK Agriculture Limited Tel: 017 824 1000 Umtiza Farmers’ Corp Limited Tel: 043 722 4215 www.umtiza.co.za Vrystaat Koöperasie Beperk (VKB) – see heading 4
Moorreesburgse Koringboere (Pty) Ltd Tel: 022 433 8300 www.mkb.co.za
Willistonse Vleiskoöperasie Bpk Tel: 053 391 3204
Mosstrich Tel: 044 606 4400 www.mosstrich.co.za
Zeder Investments Ltd Tel: 021 887 9602 www.zeder.co.za
Sources for the chapter: Agricultural Business Chamber; AFGRI; GWK; Suidwes; VKB
Marketing and finance Agricultural shows and events 1. Websites and publications • Find the “Farmer’s Diary” regular in the Farmer’s Weekly and on www. farmersweekly.co.za. • Find the “Kalender en skoue” menu option on www.landbou.com, the electronic arm of Landbouweekblad. Details of agricultural shows and events are also available in the weekly magazine. • Find a calendar of upcoming events at www.agbiz.co.za. • The “Major Events” heading of the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) Secretariat newsletter gives details of all African forums, conferences and other international congresses being hosted in Africa e.g. All Africa Horticulture Congress, Africa Crop Science Society Conference, World Congress of Agroforestry.
2. Some roleplayers Numerous producer and district associations are involved. Find details under headings 3 and 4.
Agri-Expo Tel: 021 975 4440/1/2/3
[email protected] www.agriexpo.co.za
Included in their agricultural tours are visits to international and national shows e.g. Nampo and Allfresh.
An agricultural organisation which runs numerous shows and events e.g. the South African Cheese Festival, various equestrian and breeder events and championships.
Exhibitions and Event Association of Southern Africa (EXSA) Tel: 011 805 7272 www.exsa.co.za
Agri Mega Expos Tel 028 424 2890 / 425 2524 www.agrimega.co.za
Exhibition Management Services Tel: 011 783 7250 Fax: 011 783 7269 www.exhibitionsafrica.co.za
Agri Mega Expos is responsible for various industry focused agricultural Royal Agricultural Society of expos, shows and farmers days in Natal the Western Cape. Tel: 033 345 6274
[email protected] Agri Promo (www.agripromo. www.royalshow.co.za co.za) is a one-stop agricultural media and marketing company, They host the Royal Show – “South delivering the corporate services Africa’s oldest and largest mixed like media and communication agricultural event” – and the services, corporate marketing Sunday Tribune Garden Show, the services etc. country’s “largest horticultural event”. They are further involved AGRIFICA with a range of projects. Tel: 012 804 9729 www.agrifica.co.za Tshwane Business and Agricultural Corporation Tours to South African and African (TSHWABAC) agricultural functions Tel: 012 327 1487 www.tshwabac.co.za Agricultural Tours Worldwide Tel: 082 447 7718
[email protected] www.agritoursandtravel.com
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3. Shows Agri Mega Week (Bredasdorp) Tel 028 424 2890 / 028 425 2524 www.agrimega.co.za
Allfresh
[email protected] www.allfresh.co.za
Interactive expo and Indaba, focusing on the wintergrain, sheep and wool, and dairy industries. Industry focused. Happens over 3 days. 300 exhibitors, 15 000 visitors.
A national summit for suppliers and producers in the fresh produce industry.
Africa’s Big Seven, which happens at Midrand, incorporates AgriFood, Food Tech Africa, Interbake Africa, Food Biz Africa, Retail Trade Exhibition, Retail Solutions Africa and IFMA Africa. Several conferences happen parallel to the exhibitions. Find the Exhibition Management Services entry under heading 2 for contact details.
From The Earth Tel: 021 975 4440/1/2/3 www.fromtheearth.co.za Gardenex is the most important floricultural show in South Africa. Call 011 549 8300 or visit www. gardenex.co.za Nampo Harvest Day Tel: 056 515 2145
[email protected] www.nampo.co.za
The NAMPO Harvest Day - an annual agricultural show held over four days at the NAMPO Park near Bothaville - is intended to create an The Expo is mainly aimed at the environment where farmers and needs of dairy farmers, but it also input suppliers meet. The input offers stock farmers value for suppliers exhibit and demonstrate their products; the farmer has the money chance to see what is available on the market. All Africa Dairy Expo Tel: 012 843 5745 www.dairyexpo.co.za
For accommodation (book early!), South African Cheese Festival call the Maize Capital Forum Tel: 021 975 4440 – 056 515 3042 – or Viljoenskroon www.cheesefestival.co.za Tourism – Tel: 056 343 3992. Sunday Tribune Garden Show Natural & Organics Products – find “Royal Agricultural Society of Tel: 021 671 0935 / 083 346 3465 Natal” under heading 2. www.naturalandorganic.co.za Intervitis Interfructa Southern Royal Show (PMB) – find “Royal Africa Agricultural Society of Natal” under Incorporating the Wine Farmers and heading 2. Fruit Growers Exhibition Tel: 021 448 7330 SAITEX www.intervitis-interfructa.co.za Tel: 011 783 7250 www.exhibitionsafrica.com
Some other shows Northern Cape
Limpopo
Kimberley Show Tel: 053 833 3581
Agri Letaba (at Tzaneen) Tel: 015 307 2725 www.agriletaba.co.za
Free State Bloemfontein Tel: 051 448 9894 www.bloemskou.co.za Reitz Bieliemieliefees Tel: 072 180 3380 There are also shows in Parys and Dewetsdorp.
Naboom Windpomp Fees Tel: 014 743 3137 / 082 087 0360 www.naboomwindpompfees.co.za Polokwane Agricultural Show Tel: 015 290 2297 Other shows happen at Makhado (Louis Trichardt), Bela-bela (Warmbaths), Tolwe and Vivo.
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Gauteng
KwaZulu-Natal
Pretoria Show Tel: 012 327 1487 www.tshwabac.co.za
Eston Show Tel: 031 781 1995 www.estonshow.co.za
Vaal Show Tel: 016 421 3570
The Royal Show – see heading 3
Mpumalanga The show in Nelspruit happens over 5 days. Call 013 752 2801.
Eastern Cape Contact the Eastern Cape Agricultural Show Association at 041484 4520
North West Lichtenburg Show Alice van Wyk – 082 701 6928 Rustenburg Show Tel: 014 592 1318/9 Vryburg Show Tel: 053 927 3945
Western Cape A complete list of shows in the Western Cape is available from AgriExpo. Some of the larger ones are:
The Food & Beverage and Meat NAFCO Management Conferences occur Tel: 013 262 4474 during the Africa’s Big Seven www.nafco.co.za Exhibition. South African Large Herds Mega Events Conference Tel: 021 863 0397 Tel: 012 843 5745 www.agrimega.co.za www.largeherds.co.za One stop event management service, specialising in agriculture. Any event, any time, anywhere.
6. Some international shows Agri Mega Week – see heading 3 Agri Cape Week (Paarl) Tel 028 424 2890 / 028 425 2524 www.agrimega.co.za Interactive expo and focusing on the fruit, and vegetable industries. focused. Happens over 100 exhibitors, 6 000
Indaba, vineyard Industry 3 days. visitors.
Robertson Lenteskou Tel. 023 626 2512 Swartlandskou (Moorreesburg) Tel: 083 231 5484
Billed as South Africa’s third largest agricultural show, and the biggest Worcester Show cattle show in the country. Tel. 023 347 0091
5. Conferences Agribusiness Africa Conference Food, Agriculture and Natural Tel: 012 804 9729 Resources Policy Analysis www.agrifica.co.za Network (FANRPAN) Tel: 012 804 2966 / 3186 Agrmark Trends (AMT) – see www.fanrpan.org page 521 Tel: 012 361 2748 Regional policy dialogues are held www.agrimark.co.za across Southern Africa. Visit the website for details. Economic overviews are given of the various agricultural sectors. IIR Conferences Find the “Conference Proceedings” Tel: 011 771 7000 menu option on the website. www.iir-conferences.co.za
• The “most important “ agricultural shows are listed, per country, on the Agricultural Tour Operators International (ATOI) website. Visit www.atoi.org. See also www.biztradeshows.com. • www.exhibitionsafrica.co.za – find details of shows in Nigeria, Ghana and Mozambique. • International Aquaculture events – contact Aquaculture Innovations at 046 622 3690, visit www.aquaafrica.co.za or write to leslie@aquaafrica. co.za. • Note that international shows/conferences are periodically held in South Africa e.g. the Global Citrus Conference 2010. • For shows and events in the USA, contact Denvor Julies at the US Commercial Services: call 011 290 3241. • Agritechnica Expo www.agritechnica.com • Agromek is the largest annual agricultural mechanisation exhibition in Northern Europe. Visit www.agromek.dk • Australia’s “premier agricultural exhibition” – visit www.anfd.com.au to read about the Australian National Field Days. • BioFach – www.biofach.de. An extensive range of organic food and fair trade products. Contact Ian Robinson from Go-organic.co.za for more information. • Enterprise Florida is “America’s Food and Beverage Show” for South African companies wishing to get their products into the USA market. Write to
[email protected] or call Tongila Manly at 082 560 8001. • Fruit Logistica – call +49 30 3038-2045 or write to
[email protected] • Hortifair is the floriculture show in the Netherlands. Membership of SAFGA (see the Cutflowers chapter) is compulsory should you wish to exhibit there. Call 011 692 4237. • The Stockbreeding show in France is called SPACE. Call 011 303 7193 or visit www.space.fr for information. • The UK’s Royal Show ceased in 2010.
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Marketing and finance Auctions – livestock 1. Overview The perfect market is defined as one where you have many buyers, many sellers and many cattle.
Types of Auctions: A Calendar Auction auction is held on the same place /auction pens on a weekly, monthly, quarterly or even yearly basis by an agent who advertises the auction in a calendar. The venue for the auction would have been selected and developed over years and its mere survival shows that there is a need for such an auction. The sellers and buyers at the calendar auction can vary according what is on offer and what are the needs of both seller and buyer. The auctioneer, marketing officer, accountant, roll clerk and labourers facilitate the auction and their versatility enables them to even conduct real estate auctions. The marketing officer will source the livestock for the auction, receive it at the auction pens, classify the animals in lots preferred by buyers and he and the auctioneer will source buyers to attend the auction. The accountant will see to the financial administration which refers to all statutory requirements as well as collecting payments and financing of buyers, and payment of sellers. The roll clerk will keep accurate records of what is sold, by whom, price of animals and who is the buyer. The labourers will identify the animals and load them on trucks to be delivered at the buyers place. A Special auction is an auction requested by a seller or sellers to sell some their livestock or a seller could sell of his livestock, farms etc. It could be a dispersal sale if the seller stops farming. At a Stud Auction animals of special breeding qualities are for sale. The auctioneer, seller/sellers will work closely with a breed society who will select the animals according to their standards for such an auction. The auctioneer conducting this auction is a specialised stud auctioneer. The Stud Breeders’ Manual includes an in-depth look at animal and performance recording, the principles of marketing purebred livestock. Visit www. studbook.co.za or call 051 410 0900 for more information. At a Game auctions game is either sold in a open auction or on catalogue. Special arrangements are needed to transport game and auction pens and handling facilities must be according to specifications. All auctions are attended by NSPCA personnel to make sure animals are being handled humanely and facilities meet specified criteria. A Private treaty is where a marketing officer/agent facilitates a transaction directly between a seller and buyer of livestock. The transaction is well documented. Farmers can also, of course, sell their animals at guaranteed prices to abattoirs, feedlots etc. with the help of an agent or not.
The roleplayers in Livestock Marketing • Agents – they facilitate transactions between sellers and buyers on a professional basis. • Sellers – primary and secondary producers • Buyers – abattoirs, trade, feedlots, speculators • Financers (usually banks) The livestock market and related value chain is the single biggest industry in Agriculture in RSA. All the role players in the value chain add value and enable survival of the industry.
2. National strategy Agricultural Products Agents Council (APAC) Tel: 011 894 3680 www.apacweb.org.za Agents in South Africa must register with APAC in terms of the Agricultural Products Agents Act (Act 12 of 1992 as amended). Members of the above council are appointed by the Minster of Agriculture and Land Affairs. The purpose of council is to regulate three categories of agricultural produce agents, namely: Fresh Produce Agents, Livestock Agents and Export Agents.
Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Directorate: Marketing Tel: 012 319 8455 www.daff.gov.za Auctions are included in the discussion on marketing of livestock in Training Paper No. 7 of the very useful Agricultural Marketing Extension series. Find this at www. daff.gov.za – take “Publications” and then “General publications” options. On the same website, see the Auctioneering of Livestock Info Pak , part of the small-scale farmer marketing series.
3. Roleplayers Associations and training
South African College of Auctioneers South African Federation of Tel: 011 979 0176/8 Livestock Auctioneers and www.auctioncollege.co.za Meat Brokers (SAFLA-MB) is a federation represented by Courses are held nationwide (the members from 9 regions of website carries news of these). livestock auctioneers and meat However, once the course has been brokers. Contact Red Meat SA at mastered, it has also been said to be an ability that is further developed 012 807 1367. by the individual Auctioneer. SA Feedlot Association (SAFA) Tel: 012 667 1189/ 667 2055 Auctioneers www.safeedlot.co.za Alliance Group A major market focused on at Tel: 011 430 5555 auctions is the slaughter market Pieter Geldenhuys – 082 808 1801 which has its own specific www.alliancegroup.co.za requirements. This is a different market to stud stock trading. Andre Kock & Son Tel: 053 927 1981 Refer to the Abattoir chapter for details of roleplayers and major BidCo commercial groups. Tel: 012 808 9903-5 www.bidco.co.za South African Institute of Auctioneers (SAIA) BKB Cell: 082 378 8112 Tel: 041 503 3111 www.auctioneering.co.za www.bkb.co.za SAIA “aims to protect the image of auctioneers and the auctioneering profession in the eyes of the public, business and Government sectors and to encourage healthy and innovative trading in an atmosphere of honesty, ethics, fair play and cooperation”.
Find the “Livestock Auctions” menu option and details of their subsidiary companies BKB Louwid and BKB Van Wyk.
Most Breeders’ Societies now specify a (within breed) standard catalogue format for auctions. Each has its own rules. Find roleplayers in the Animal Improvement and Breeders chapter.
Clive Gardner Auctioneers Tel: 018 290 9610
Breedplan is a modern genetic evaluation system for beef cattle. Visit www.breedplan.co.za or call Find the Regional Representatives, 012 667 5258. Auctioneers by Province, Auction Info and other menu options on the Brandon Leer Auctioneers website. The Code of Conduct for Tel: 082 570 5863 Fax: 033 343 4530 agents is also available.
ECO Auctioneers Tel: 051 446 5511 www.ecoauctions.co.za
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Elite Auctioning Company Tel: 058 813 4146 GWK Ltd Tel: 053 298 8200 www.gwk.co.za Hobson & Co Tel: 046 622 4724 Huis van Oranje Tel: 086 010 4297 www.hvo.co.za
The electronic arm of the weekly agricultural publication Landbouweekblad offers an SMS service with livestock auction prices. Mike Killassy is a noted and experienced stud stock auctioneer who has sold thousands of stud animals to commercial buyers over many years. Call 012 664 4548 or 082 378 8112.
SHM Stud & Commercial John Kirk Auctioneers is Marketing Dundee-based. Details of upcoming Tel: 018 290 9409 sales are on the website www. johnkirkauctioneers.co.za. Call 082 Sheard Auctioneers 903 6019 / 082 329 0227. Tel: 045 843 1722 Keevy Auctions Tel: 041 581 1951 www.keevyauctions.co.za
Tirhani Auctioneers Tel: 0861 847 426 www.tirhani.co.za
KLK Landbou Beperk Tel: 054 337 6200 www.klk.co.za
Vleissentraal Tel: 012 460 9916 Tel: 015 491 3141 www.vleissentraal.co.za www.vleissentraalbosveld.co.za
Landbou.com Tel: 021 406 2296 / 2414 Fax: 021 406 2940 www.landbou.com
An Auctioneer’s personal skills should include: • • • • • •
being professional, competent and projecting an impartial image; excellent communication skills, humour, charm; reliability and trustworthiness; a commanding if not charismatic presence; good sales skills; versatility in applying these skills e.g. being able to sell a race horse today and wine tomorrow; • not only being knowledgeable about information in the catalogue but knowing how to interpret, communicate and clarify pertinent details for the buyer e.g. EBVs that are significant to the pedigree about the Sire’s family as well as that of the Dam and her performance traits; • intuition and being astute; • being a “psychologist” and “sociologist” – know how to read people (the crowd) as well as the context accurately; • being able to easily assume appropriate facilitation roles; • understanding all the roleplayers as well as their agenda; • “reading” the dynamics unfolding before they happen e.g. the values and norms of specific groups and how they are likely to respond to events; each other and why. Source: Mike Killassy
4. Websites and publications •
The weekly agricultural publications Farmer’s Weekly and Landbouweekblad carry news of auctions. Find the auction report, auction advertisements and auction calendar options at www. farmersweekly.co.za. The electronic arm of the weekly agricultural publication Landbouweekblad, www.landbou.com, offers an SMS service with livestock auction prices. Find auction prices under the “Markte” option. • Find the DAFF entry under heading 2 in this chapter. • Visit websites linked to auctioneers e.g. find the “Livestock auctions” option at www.bkb.co.za and GWK’s livestock auctions portal, www. lewendehawe.co.za. • Chapter 18 of the Stud Breeders’ Manual deals with auctions and sales under the auspices of breeders’ societies. The chapter is titled
“Auctions as a marketing mechanism”. Contact SA Studbook at 051 410 0900 or visit www.studbook.co.za. • An interesting idea: “Reverse auctions are fixed-duration bidding events hosted by a single buyer, in which multiple suppliers compete for business”. Visit www.farmerfirstgroup.co.za. • The reverse side of the monthly magazine ProAgri, AgriTrader, gives notice of livestock auctions. Call 086 111 2297, fax 086 675 0617 or visit www.proagri.co.za. • The Southern African Livestock Exchange (SALEX) for online auctioneering – www.salex.co.za
5. The advantages and disadvantages of auctioneering Advantages • Without an auction, prices can be manipulated downwards by the buyers e.g. in beef production there are a few strong buyers and many weak sellers. • The fact that the market is price efficient, producers receive payment almost immediately after the animal is sold and all types of livestock can be marketed. • No market knowledge is required by the producer. • A good auctioneer is able to break up buyer’s rings if the sellers are on his side.
Disadvantages include • • • • •
High shrinkage and transportation costs. Disease spreading is more likely. Excessive stress is placed on animals. This is a lengthy, time consuming process. Auctions can be manipulated. Buyers form rings and this usually occurs when cattle supplies are in a surplus situation. • Traditionally, auctions are held at specific places such as Farmers’ Association sale yards which means cattle have to be moved from the farm to the yard. • The seller feels pressure to sell his cattle at the sale at the price offered or take his animals home again. Source: SA Stud Book With gratitude to those who contributed to this chapter: Mike Killassy; Lizel Pretorius (APAC); Pieter Geldenhuys (Alliance Group).
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Marketing and finance Banks 1. Associations and government departments involved Roleplayers can also be found in other chapters e.g. “Providers of financial services”, “Risk management and insurance”, and by taking the “Links” option on websites mentioned in this chapter. The Banking Association South Africa Tel: 011 645 6700 www.banking.org.za The Banking Association South Africa is an industry body representing all registered banks in South Africa. These include both South African and international banks. Find a list of the member banks under the “Our Industry” menu option on the website. BANKSERV Tel: 011 497 4000 www.banserv.co.za
SADC Banking Association Tel: 011 645 6726 www.sadcbanking.org South African Banking Risk Information Centre (SABRIC) Tel: 011 847 3000 www.sabric.co.za SABRIC was established to assist the banking industry to combat organised crime. Key stakeholder are the banks and Cash-in-Transit (CiT) companies.
South African National Treasury Tel: 012 315 5944/ 5645 An “Automated Clearing House www.treasury.gov.za that provides interbank electronic transaction switching and South African Reserve Bank settlement services” Tel: 012 313 3911 www.reservebank.co.za The Ombudsman for Banking Services Tel: 011 838 0035/38/39
[email protected] www.obssa.co.za www.oba.org.za Providing South African banking customers “with a free, informal dispute resolving service”
• Find the Bankers’ Almanac at www.bankersalmanac.com. • Of particular interest to this directory are the banks’ agricultural publications e.g. Agri Review (Standard Bank), Agriland (FNB) etc. • Visit the websites of roleplayers e.g. www.banking.org.za. • See the world through a banker’s eyes! Visit www.worldbank.org for reports on development and the global economic outlook. • The African Development Bank (AfDB) is the lead agency on the NEPAD programme for infrastructure development. Visit www.afdb. org.
4. ABSA Absa AgriBusiness Head office: Tel: 011 350 4000 AgriBusiness regional offices: • Southern Region – Tel: 021 915 5320 • Central Region Province – Tel: 011 350 6160 • Eastern Region – Tel: 051 401 0836 Find the notes about the “AgriBusiness Team”, and the “AgriBusiness range of products and solutions” at www.absa.co.za
5. Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) Tel: 011 313 3911 www.dbsa.org The DBSA is a leading Development Finance Institution (DFI) in Africa south of the Sahara, playing the roles of financier, advisor, partner, implementer and integrator. It is particularly committed to infrastructure and rural development. The DBSA maximises its contribution to sustainable development in the region by mobilising financial, knowledge and human resources to support government and other development role-players in improving the quality of life of people in the region. The Bank also is also committed to accelerating the sustainable reduction of poverty and inequity, whilst promoting broad-based economic growth and regional economic integration.
6. First National Bank
2. Training and research BANKSETA Tel: 011 805 9661 www.bankseta.org.za
3. Publications
enabling the skills development of employees within the banking sector.
This is the sector education and Institute of Bankers training authority (SETA). The Tel: 011 481 7000 Skills Development Department www.iob.co.za within the BANKSETA focuses on
A division of First Rand Bank Limited. An Authorised Financial Services and Credit Provider (NCRCP20)
If you’re a farmer or intending to farm and you would like to find out what we can do to help you and your business, please: • Visit your nearest FNB Branch and/or arrange to see your relationship manager or an FNB agricultural manager/specialist. • Visit www.fnb.co.za (Commercial Banking). • Send an enquiry to
[email protected]
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• Easy Interaction with FNB – Your relationship manager ensures we understand your needs and provides an appropriate solution for you. You can interact with us face-to-face by contacting your relationship manager, or go into one of our branches countrywide during normal banking hours. You can also bank electronically via FNB Online Banking. • Short-term production finance – Available in the form of a fluctuating overdraft, this facility is aimed at farmers or farming businesses operating as proprietors, partnerships, close corporations, companies, trusts and co-operatives. It provides working capital for day-to-day expenses and to purchase production inputs. • Agricultural medium-term or project loan – This is a mediumterm loan that can be used for the establishment of production capacity such as the purchase of livestock, establishing orchards, farm buildings and other projects that take time to generate an income. The type of farming enterprise and its economic lifespan will determine the repayment term, up to a maximum of 10 years. • Agricultural long-term loan – This is a mortgage loan used to finance the purchase of farmland and finance capital improvements(e. g. buildings, dams and fencing). The loan term is usually limited to a maximum of 15 years. • Pre-plant crop finance loan – With this FNB product the farmer can limit production and price risk by combining multi-peril insurance with price hedging instruments. The farmer has several options to manage market price risk while having the comfort of knowing that, if climatic conditions have a negative impact on his production, it will be covered by insurance. • Grain contract financing – The aim of these products is to manage price risk for the client through a variety of pricing options varying from a simple minimum price contract with participation should the market strengthen to highly complex derivative instruments to reduce the cost of hedging. Force majeure is applicable, so you are protected in the event of a natural disaster. • Asset finance – Vehicle, machinery and plant can be financed through FNB and Wesbank (a division of FirstRand Bank Ltd). • Savings and investments – We provide farmers with an array of investment solutions to help you make the best of your surplus cash. All you need do is decide how long you wish to invest your money for and then choose the solution that best suits your requirements. Options include Call Accounts, Notice Deposits, Fixed Deposits, and FNB Unit Trust Accounts. • Insurance and risk management – You can choose from our experienced product partners, based on your need to use a broker or go direct. If you would like a broker to help you, FNB Insurance Brokers, provides specialised short-term insurance for all your individual assets and liabilities. • Crop insurance products – FNB has a proven track record of providing reliable, value-for-money crop insurance products to our clients by prior arrangement with third-party vendors. • Rewarding you – We reward our business customers with eBucks for Business. As a member of eBucks you can earn eBucks by simply using selected FNB business products and services. These eBucks can be spent on an array of great offerings available in the eBucks Shop, in retail partner stores or from our eBucks online shopping partners. Please visit www.ebucks.com. Visit www.fnbagricomm.co.za for market information and prices
8. Nedbank Nedbank Ltd Tel: 021 807 1369 Fax: 021 807 2854
[email protected] www.nedbank.co.za Nedbank Business Banking is all about partnerships – a concept that we pioneered in the area of business banking in South Africa. With our clientcentric philosophy of ‘partnering with you to grow your business’, our Agricultural Division offers clients a banking partnership founded on our willingness and ability to understand your business and our solutions-driven service offering. At Nedbank Business Banking we are able to offer a focused range of products that are supported by superior electronic banking capabilities and a straightforward, professional approach to service. Our clients enjoy the benefits of direct access to financial expertise supported by a client service team and a strong service ethic. Even our highly competitive pricing is individually structured and based on the risk profile and track record of your business. Our specialist industry knowledge is aligned to the needs of both the primary and secondary production of three main market sectors (as well as its value chain). These are: • agronomy • horticulture • livestock production Nedbank Business Banking is a leading provider of tailor-made agricultural financial solutions offering, these include: Lending solutions • • • • • •
Cheque accounts and Overdrafts Debtor finance Agricultural instalment sale agreement Agricultural medium-term loan Agricultural NedBond Agricultural production loan
Transactional products • • • •
Current account Global trade finance Card products Electronic banking
Other services include: • • • • •
Investments solutions Value-added solutions Financial planning solutions Short-term insurance Corporate Schemes
7. Land Bank
Emerging Farmers Programmes and Projects
Land Bank Tel: 0800 00 52 59 www.landbank.co.za
When it comes to finding optimal solutions to BEE projects, Nedbank Business Banking seeks to pool information with professional advisers and to use available expertise.
• The Land Bank’s sole shareholder is the government. • Its mandate is to support the development of the entire agricultural sector. • Key strategy: to achieve social and developmental growth that is financially sustainable by providing competitively priced products and services tailored to meet every diverse need of the agricultural sector. • It is committed to rural development and supporting commercial agriculture. • In May 2009 the global agency Fitch Ratings gave the Land Bank a rating on par with the commercial banks, and in June 2009 government approved a R3,5 billion capital injection.
The bank is involved in various projects in the sector which include: The Biodiversity Wine initiative, WWF - SA Green Trust, The Cape Winemakers Guild & Enterprise Development, and Cape Wine exhibitions with WOSA (Wines of South Africa).
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9. Rand Merchant Bank
Benefits
Structured trade finance and trading/hedging solutions for the agricultural sector Specialised Structured Finance We provide specialised structured finance, both local and cross-border, against current assets (stock or debtors). We work across a wide variety of commodities, from soft commodities and coarse grains to metals and energy. Our solutions seek to mitigate risk, both local and in emerging economies. These solutions go beyond mere “cession and pledge thinking” and are based on a managed, structured collateralisation of commodities/debtors. They are underpinned by a wide variety of products and services such as: • • • • • • •
Purchase & repurchase transactions (repos) Instalment sale financing Warehouse/in-silo financing Mill-door financing Pre-export financing Trade financing (imports and exports) Invoice discounting
Trading and Hedging RMB offers over-the-counter and exchange-traded financial riskmanagement solutions in the soft-commodities market. These solutions include: • Price Risk Management – RMB provides clients with the ability to trade futures and options on SAFEX as well as offering them a wide range of Over-the-Counter Options. We cater for the individual client’s needs, thus resulting in RMB developing a wide range of exotic type Overthe-Counter Options. Through these options, the client’s price risk is managed in an effective and efficient manner. • Trading in physical stock – RMB will assist their clients to procure or sell stock at the most preferred locations and negotiate the most beneficial rates on their behalf. For further information visit www.rmb.co.za or contact: Francois van der Plas Structured Trade and Commodity Finance Tel: 011 269 9692
Johann Theron Trading and Hedging Tel: 011 269 9733
• Creating expansion capacity; you do not have to use your own funds. • The agricultural business manager or a specialised banker with sound knowledge of agriculture, manages the relationship between the bank and the client. • Agricultural advisors give advice on business banking, compilation of comprehensive agricultural reports, and advice on strategic planning and expansion programmes. • Provide price risk-management tools to producers, processors and traders.
Features • Provide information through our quarterly AgriReview publication and Finance & Farmers manual. • Differentiated banking services: crop and livestock insurance, assurance products, commodities trading, debtor finance, wealth creation, estate planning and black economic empowerment finance. • Structured advances and loans to finance the acquisition of property, financing of equipment or fund operating expenses. • BEE: to create an economically sustainable black business sector. Agriculture is characterised by strong cyclical trends. We offer structured advances and loans, which take the effects of these cycles into account. Whether you need to acquire new property, finance equipment or fund operating expenses, we have a solution to meet your requirements, such as overdrafts, asset finance, medium-term loans and Business Revolving Credit Plans. The table (top, next page) provides information on our finance options. • Working capital should be financed with an overdraft. • Fixed assets should be financed according to their economic life span. • Movable assets should be financed by asset finance over the same period or shorter as the write-off period for tax purposes. • Fixed property can be financed for up to 15 years with a medium-term loan. In this case a bond is usually required as security.
Specialist Advice Because of the complex nature of the agricultural industry we have a team of experts to assist with agricultural finance.
Agricultural Advisors Our team of agricultural advisors, who work closely with our business managers, are an extremely important component of our agricultural service offering.
10. Standard Bank
The duties of these economists include assistance and advice on business banking, feasibility studies, compilation of comprehensive agricultural reports, and advice on strategic planning and expansion programmes.
Standard Bank Agriculture head office, Johannesburg
Agricultural Advisors (security assessments and feasibility studies)
General enquiries: Fax: Email: Postal address: Physical address:
011 636 6162 011 636 8218
[email protected] P O Box 6702, Johannesburg, 2000 5 Simmonds Street, Johannesburg, 2001
We have provided financial services to the agricultural sector for over 140 years. We are committed to the development of agriculture and to adding value to your farming business. We have a range of specialised products and services, including the support of our agricultural advisors and business managers. We believe that you should expect more than just banking products from your bank. This is why we have a team of agricultural specialists to advise you on a range of areas related to your agricultural business. Agricultural products include savings and investment products, as well as short-, medium- and long-term loans.
Province
Contact Numbers
Eastern Cape
041 391 2429
Free State
051 403 4712
Gauteng
011 636 6143
KwaZulu-Natal
031 374 2142
Limpopo
015 290 8379
Mpumalanga
013 757 5595
North West
014 591 6187
Northern Cape
053 807 8172
Western Cape
021 872 0939 / 970 4261
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Business Managers The relationship between you and us is managed by a business manager. Our business managers are specialised bankers with a sound knowledge of agriculture.
Black Economic Empowerment We are committed to demonstrating responsible corporate citizenship by supporting social transformation and job creation. Our commitment to black economic empowerment (BEE) is driven by the need to create an economically sustainable black business sector as the foundation for our growth and profitability. Funding requirements for BEE include buying into an existing farming operation, the expansion of an existing operation, and integration along the value chain, contract finance and communal land.
Kind of finance
Choose the right finance What you need the money for:
Overdraft
Business Business Revolving Term Credit Plan Loan (BRCP)
MediumTerm Loan
Agricultural Production Loan
Vehicle and asset finance
Working capital
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
No
Input costs, crops or livestock
Yes
Yes
No
No
Yes
No
Implements, machinery and other capital equipment
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Office No Yes Yes Yes No A Leveraged Finance team has been put together to equipment facilitate applications for BEE finance. This team can also give guidance on structuring deals and how the different Vehicles No No No No No parties could be organised effectively. Where risk-based Property No No Yes Yes No pricing is applied, BEE enterprises often attract a higher interest rate. The Khula Land Reform Empowerment Facility (LREF) is used to re-finance BEE enterprises at a Our agricultural commodities trading desk’s services include: reduced rate. This results in subsidised interest rate that will further improve the sustainability of the BEE enterprise. The LREF is accessed through us. • Grain price hedging advice • Providing market information A Leveraged Finance team has been put together to facilitate applications • Market risk analysis for BEE finance. This team can also give guidance on structuring deals and • Silo certificate financing how the different parties could be organised effectively. Where risk-based pricing is applied, BEE enterprises often attract a higher interest rate. The Khula Land Reform Empowerment Facility (LREF) is used to re-finance BEE Agricultural Trading Desk 011 378 8605/6/7/8/9 enterprises at a reduced rate. This results in subsidised interest rate that will further improve the sustainability of the BEE enterprise. The LREF is accessed through us. Conclusion Our agricultural commodities trading desk will handle your futures and options deals in white and yellow maize, wheat, soya beans and sunflower seed. It is a major player on the South African Futures Exchange (Safex) for agricultural commodities. This market provides price-risk management tools to producers, processors and traders.
Yes Yes No
The Agricultural sector is cyclical in nature, and with sound financial planning and prudent use of financial instruments and accurate information, farmers are better equipped to navigate the economic and climatic ups and downs that impact profits. As financial partner in agriculture, we would like to provide a service which enables every farmer to become financially successful in their farming business. For further enquiries on this and any of our service offerings, please do net hesitate to visit your local Standard Bank branch or contact us at Standard Bank’s Agricultural Banking head office on 011 636 6162.
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Marketing and finance Commodity trading See also the Grain Storage and Handling chapter
1. Overview Since deregulation of the agricultural market in the mid 1990’s, the agricultural derivatives market in South Africa has continued to develop. The price risk management tools that the derivative market provides allow participants to hedge the price volatility in the underlying physical market. The commitment from Government in 1995 to stay out of the price determination process in the agricultural market remains firm, therefore allowing for a truly free market environment to develop. The graph below illustrates the total volume in number of contracts traded for the years 1998 to 2006. The volumes grew exponentially reaching a peak in 2003, fell off to a low point in 2005 and have since increased to a record level in 2008.
2. What is the role of agricultural derivatives? • Agricultural derivatives play an active role in price determination and transparency in the local agricultural market whilst providing an efficient price risk management facility. • Producers and users of agricultural commodities hedge their price risk, thereby limiting their exposure to adverse price movements. This encourages increased productivity in the agricultural sector as farmers and users are able to concentrate their efforts on managing production risks. These are the risks associated with variables such as the weather, farm/production management and seasonal conditions. • The futures market exists primarily for the purpose of allowing commercial users to hedge their transactions or lock in favourable prices. Yet, the market could not operate efficiently and effectively without speculators, as they provide the necessary market liquidity which allows commercial users to hedge. Speculators use futures and options in an attempt to make profits on short-term price movements. • Financial institutions lending to these sectors are also ensured of reduced risk profiles when dealing with clients who have hedged a portion of their price risk. Such clients could typically access funds at cheaper rates than would otherwise have been offered. • The agricultural derivatives market has developed to such an extent that the cash market now largely relies on its price transparency and discovery process to function properly. Prices generated on the derivatives market are now considered the industry standard and reference point throughout Southern Africa.
3. Why trade agricultural derivatives on an exchange? 1. Regulation – Commodity Derivatives is a division of the JSE Limited managed by the JSE and regulated by the Financial Services Board (FSB) which oversees the exchange’s reporting with regards to Securities Services Act of 2004. 2. Margins – When trading derivative products, the exchange requires the payment of both initial margins and variation margins. The initial margins are determined by the clearing house and vary depending on historical price volatility. The variation margin is a daily flow of funds (profits/losses) resulting from any open position calculated through a methodology of Mark-to-Market (M-t-M). 3. Financial Integrity – When dealing with the exchange the exchange’s clearing house becomes seller to every buyer and buyer to every seller. Members are free to deal with each other without any credit risk. This eliminates counter party risk which is prevalent in the over-the-counter markets (OTC). The most active contract traded remains the white maize futures contract that trades on average over 70 000 contracts per month. This represents 7 mt of white maize. The wheat futures contract has grown over the recent months and now represents the second most active contract on the market with close on 39 000 contracts traded monthly. In August 2001 the members of the South African Futures Exchange (SAFEX), both financial and agricultural markets, accepted an offer by the then JSE Securities Exchange to buy them out. The Agricultural Products Division of the JSE Securities Exchange was established to take over the functions of the old AMD. The agricultural derivative market is now managed by the Commodity Derivative Division of the JSE Limited (the Johannesburg Stock Exchange).
4. Transparency – Pricing is determined purely on the basis of demand and supply. Prices for each contract are negotiated between buyers and sellers via an electronic order matching platform called the Automated Trading System (ATS). The presence of numerous buyers and sellers ensures that prices are always competitive and adjust efficiently to reflect changes in the underlying market.
4. How are agricultural derivatives traded? Registered agricultural derivative brokers input orders into the ATS from remote locations (during trading hours (09h00 – 12h00) which are automatically matched on the basis of time and price priority. The exchange guarantees performance by counterparties in a futures contract. Agricultural derivative prices are quoted at their Rand value per ton, delivered on truck alongside silo basis Randfontein. One futures contract comprises 100 tons for white and yellow maize and 50 tons for wheat and sunflower seeds. Soybean contracts are quoted at their Rand value per ton,
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and comprise 25 tons per contract. The soybean contract trades at the same basis price in a number of registered silos with no location differentials. Daily price limits, limiting the daily movement of prices, add security to the market. If the limit is reached on two like contracts on two consecutive days the price limits are increased to 150% of the original limit and the extended limits will remain in place until the daily movement on all like contracts is less then the original limits. Extended price limits also result in increased initial margin requirements for those periods when the extended limits apply. Futures are quoted on the trading system as: Month of expiry, year of expiry, four letter code of commodity JUL06 WMAZ – White maize contract DEC06 YMAZ – Yellow maize contract SEP06 WEAT – Wheat contract MAR06 SUNS – Sunflower seeds contract MAY06 SOYA – Soybean contract In early 2009, the CORN contract based off of the CBOT corn contract was launched. This allows direct participation in South African rand to the most liquid international maize contract. The fundamental difference between the CORN contract and the domestic grain contracts traded is that the CORN contract is cash settled and not physically settled. Full details can be obtained from www.jse.co.za
5. Market to market (M-t-M) calculation of futures and options The Mark-to-Market (m-t-m) for the day, also referred to as the settlement price, is determined at random any time in the last 5 minutes of trading at the discretion of the exchange.
If the bid is better than the last traded price the bid will be used as the mt-m price. (In simple terms this can be interpreted as buyers in the market prepared to pay more than the last traded price). Should the offer be lower than the last traded price then the offer will be used as the m-t-m. (This means that there are sellers in the market who are prepared to sell lower than the last traded price). A volume weighted average price (VWAP) is used to calculate the m-t-m for all liquid contracts. A liquid contract is defined as any expiry that trades 100 or more contracts in the last half hour of trading. The closing option volatility is calculated using at-the-money option trades and two strikes either side during the last half hour of trade. The exchange reserves the right to set the m-t-m volatility. This implied volatility is then used to value all option positions.
6. Settlement procedures of agricultural derivatives What is Physical Delivery? All products traded on the agricultural derivatives market can be physically delivered at expiry in fulfillment of a futures contract. This does not mean that 100 tons of maize is delivered by truck to the exchange to complete the delivery process. The exchange makes use of a silo receipt, a transferable but not negotiable document, representing a specific quantity of stock in a registered Safex silo to effect delivery. Paper and electronic silo receipts issued by registered silo owners are accepted by the exchange. The silo owner storing the product guarantees the quality of stock as per detailed grading methodology specified by the National Department of Agriculture and to outload the specific product upon presentation of the silo receipt. Delivery can take place any business day on a particular delivery month. (A futures position in the July contract can only be delivered on during July). Physical delivery takes place over a two-business day period, the notice day followed by the delivery day (the next business day).
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Delivery can take place at any Safex approved silo and each delivery point is subject to a location differential (based on transport costs). Location differentials are fixed by the exchange and are available from the exchange (available on the webpage www.safex.co.za) Notice day The short position holder (seller of the commodity) notifies his broker about his intention to give notice of delivery to close-out a futures position. Notice must be given before 12 noon on any business day during the delivery month. The last notice day being the second last business day of the delivery month. For example a short position holder could give notice on the September futures contract on the 31 August for delivery on the 1 September or his last notice day would be the 29 September for delivery on the 30 September. (For all delivery dates see Agricultural Markets – Contract specifications on the web page).
Southern Africa and an El Nino expected in the middle of the maize growing season, maize prices will naturally soar. As the market has grown and developed over the last 15 years, so the rules and regulations have progressed to ensure market integrity for all participants trading on the market. Compliance to the FICA regulations has afforded members the opportunity to understand their clients business better and in so doing understand their risks. At the end of 2003 position limits were introduced on white maize futures contract for non-hedgers (speculators). This was done since the open interest on the contract had grown significantly larger than the available crop in South Africa and to prevent manipulation of the underlying market. Non-hedgers are restricted to an exposure of 15% of the net delta open interest.
The deliveries are randomly allocated by computer programme to existing long position holders. A long position holder allocated stock will be notified through the clearing member of the allocation.
Broker-client relationships remain key to all participants in the market. It is imperative that clients understand the agreements they enter into and most importantly the trading strategies they use to manage their price risk. Without understanding the true downside and upside of any strategy, hedgers may very well become speculators without even realising it.
Any long position holder (buyer of the commodity) could be allocated product at any time during the delivery month with one day’s notice but is assured that he/she will receive such stock by the last day of the delivery month. Buyers are guaranteed that it will be at a registered silo and free along side the rail. The best case scenario is being allocated maize in a silo convenient to the buyer; however, the worse case scenario would be Randfontein. Therefore the location differential will always ensure that the basis Randfontein price is traded.
For the last 15 years the exchange has provided an efficient facility for price discovery and price risk management of agricultural products in South Africa, reducing trading fees as the trading volumes increased. Except for one day in 1999 due to severe technical problems, the exchange has been open for trading every single business day providing a platform for buyers and sellers to match their trades. The JSE Limited looks forward to the years ahead and is committed to providing South Africa and the region with an efficient and cost effective product to manage price risk.
The closing price (mark-to-market) on the notice day is the price at which contracts are closed. The location differentials and any outstanding storage is deducted from the amount payable by a long position holder (in the case of wheat a grade discount is also applicable). The exchange does not take any prepaid storage into account and the seller forfeits any storage costs that have been prepaid. Long position holders are charged a standard daily storage rate fixed for each marketing season for any outstanding storage costs and are responsible for storage from the delivery day onwards. Delivery day Silo receipts have to be delivered to a broker who will in turn ensure that they reach the exchange no later than 12h00 on the delivery day. Payments for products take place by 12h00 on the delivery day. Long position holders are able to collect silo receipts from the exchange from 14h00 onwards. Positions can still be opened or closed during the delivery month until the last trading day. The last trading day is the eighth last business day of each delivery month. Once the contract has closed for trading any position still open will have to be honored by payment or delivery (short position holders have until the last business day of the delivery month to make delivery).
7. How is risk managed? Delivery and settlement on any exchange traded derivative contract is always 100% guaranteed. This is done through the novation process whereby the clearing house assumes the position of buyer to every seller and seller to every buyer. The counterparties do not deal with each other directly as the exchange matches all long and short positions. To manage default risk, the exchange uses its three-tier system, initial margin requirements as well as the daily m-t-m process. Should a client default on a contract, his/her broker assumes these positions. The broker could then close them off and use the initial margin deposit held to cover his/her losses. In the event that the broker is unable to assume the client’s positions, his clearing member would stand in for him/her. Currently the clearing members consist of South Africa’s largest financial institutions. This tier system ensures that the client on the other side is always guaranteed fulfillment of his/her position. The key factors influencing grain prices in South Africa can be identified as first - the local, then regional and finally international- supply and demand. The exchange rate is also an important contributor since world grain is traded in US dollars, should the Rand weaken then the demand for South African maize would increase. Since the market is information driven, should organizations like the Crop Estimates Committee (CEC), weather bureau or South African Grain Information Services (SAGIS) release new information, it will have a direct impact on the current trading prices. To illustrate this, imagine the Rand trading at 14 to the dollar, huge shortages in
8. Associations involved JSE Limited Commodity Derivatives Tel: 011 520 7535 Rod Gravelet-Blondin –
[email protected] Chris Sturgess –
[email protected] www.safex.co.za
9. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Find information on the various directorates under the Divisions menu option at www.daff.gov.za Directorate: Marketing Tel: 012 319 8455
[email protected] Directorate: International Trade Tel: 012 319 8451
[email protected] Directorate: Agricultural Statistics Tel: 012 319 8454
[email protected] Crop Estimates Committee (CEC) Tel: 012 319 6507
[email protected]
National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) Crop Estimates Liaison Committee (CELC) Tel: 012 341 1115 www.namc.co.za The Crop Estimates Liaison Committee (CELC) is an official committee that functions under the auspices of the NAMC. CELC is amongst others, to monitor the performance of the Crop Estimates Committee (CEC) and make recommendations for the further improvement of crop estimates on an ongoing basis.
10. Training and research Find the “How to Invest” option at www.jse.co.za
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Agimark Trends (AMT) Tel: 012 361 2748 www.agrimark.co.za
TMS Training Services Tel: 011 853 2777
[email protected] www.hochfeld.co.za
Brokers Member and member code
Contact details
Absa Bank Ltd – ABL Market Making – ABSA
011 221 9100-5
Afgri Broking (Pty) Ltd – AFG
012 683 5310-2
Alpha Derivatives – ALP
011 485 2321
Anglorand Futop (Pty) Ltd – ARF
011 484 7440
Applied Derivatives (Pty) Ltd – ONE
021 671 8220
Badger Securities (Pty) Ltd – BAD
021 979 1194
Bester Feed & Grain Exchange (Pty) Ltd BES
021 809 2500
BGC Financial Brokers (Pty) Ltd – BGC
011 706 9202
B & P Group Financial Services (Pty) Ltd BPG
031 583 4600 071 602 0100
Brent Trading )Pty) Ltd – BRN
056 811 2966
Brisen Commodities (Pty) Ltd – BRI
012 640 1600
Bushveld Grain (Pty) Ltd – BVG
0861 111 640
Cargill RSA (Pty) Ltd – CGL
0861 227 445
CJS Securities (Pty) Ltd – CJS
011 447 3531
Commodity House (Pty) Ltd – CTH
021 888 8114
Corn International (Pty) Ltd – CRN
011 317 7180 011 317 7183
Degro Futures (Pty) Ltd – GRO
012 807 1788/1805
Derived Market Investment and Planning (Pty) Ltd – DMP
012 807 1838
DHJ Grain Brokers (Pty) Ltd – DHJ
018 632 7748
DWT Securities (Pty) Ltd – DWT
021 914 6460
Farmwise Grains (Pty) Ltd – FAR
011 787 3666
FCB Harlow Butler (Pty) Ltd – IAP
011 276 9009
First World Trader (Pty) Ltd – FWT
011 214 8006
Futureline (Pty) Ltd – FTR
021 851 9573
Grainman International (Pty) Ltd – GMI
021 886 7202
Grainvest Futures (Pty) Ltd – GVF
0861 6600 00
GWK Trading (Pty) Ltd – GWK
053 298 8241
JP Morgan Equities Ltd – AMI
011 507 0619
Kempro (Pty) Ltd – KEM
018 441 0094
Kernel Maize (Pty) Ltd – KMC
028 313 2731
Market Traders (Pty) Ltd – MKT
033 343 5792
MGK Bedryfsmaatskappy (Edms) Bpk MGK
012 252 3778/9
Mooirivier Grain (Pty) Ltd – MRG
018 297 4795
Nedbank Ltd – NED
021 413 9302 011 294 4566
12. Companies involved
Nedcor Securities (Pty) Ltd – BSL
011 535 4036/8
Broking Members are those members who have one or more registered dealers and the required clearing agreement and can trade on behalf of clients. Clearing Members are member who clears deals on behalf of broking members.
NWK Ltd – NWK
018 633 1000
Oos-Kaap Boerdery & Graanhandelaars (Edms) Bpk – OVK
051 923 4500
Peregrine Derivatives (Pty) Ltd – MER
011 722 7519
PSG Prime (Pty) Ltd – CPT
021 799 8089
Rand Merchant Bank, a division of FirstRand Bank Ltd – RMB
011 269 9800 021 888 8310
AMT provides market information TMS runs the successful and research “Fundementals of Futures” course. Bureau for Economic Research Universities conduct research on Tel: 021 887 2810 SAFEX and various models based www.ber.ac.za on SAFEX are developed. Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy (BFAP) Tel: 012 420 4583/2 www.bfap.co.za
University of the Free State Department of Agricultural Economics Tel: 051 401 2250
Grain SA Tel: 056 515 2145 www.grainsa.co.za
University of KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agricultural Economics Tel: 033 260 5494
Grain SA offers a short SAFEX University of Pretoria Course. Agricultural Economics, Extension South African Institute of and Rural Development Tel: 012 420 3248 Financial Markets (SAIFM) Tel: 011 802 4768 University of Stellenbosch www.saifm.co.za Department of Agricultural Their vision is to be “the leading Economics professional body providing Tel: 021 808 9000 educational, examination, and accreditation services for financial market professionals in South Africa and other African countries”.
11. Websites and publications • www.cmegroup.com – Chicago Board of Trade • www.nass.usda.gov – the National Agricultural Statistics Service (USA) • www.usda.gov/oce/commodity – the World Agricultural Outlook Board (WAOB) serves as a focal point for economic intelligence and the outlook for world agriculture. • China National Grain and Oils Information Centre – www.chinagrain. gov.cn • www.igc.org.uk – International Grains Council • Find the “Trade intelligence” option at www.agbiz.co.za, website of the Agricultural Business Chamber. • Visit the websites of associations like the Agricultural Economics Association of South Africa (aeasa.org.za), Grain SA (www.grainsa. co.za) and the South African Grain Information Service (www.sagis. org.za). • The websites of various companies involved give current information. Visit www.farmwise.co.za, for example. • Companies involved stay in regular contact with clients e.g. Farmwise send out two email-updates per day. Contact Machiel Jacobsz at
[email protected]. • Fine the regular features “AGRIcommodities” and “Markneigings” in the Farmers’ Weekly and Landbouweekblad. • Find the document “Existence and use of Location Differentials in SAFEX Cash Market Settlement” by Matthew C Roberts on www. grainsa.co.za
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Member and member code
Contact details
Regiments Securities Ltd – FFO
011 471 0500
Robinsin Mulder De Waal Financial Services (Pty) Ltd – RMD
012 665 5010 044 873 5930
SA Derivatives
021 914 3760
Senwes Ltd – SWK
018 464 7800
Sigma Options Writers (Pty) Ltd – SOW
028 313 0104
Southern Alliance (Pty) Ltd – SAL
011 549 5100
Standard Bank of South Africa – STD
011 378 8605
Suidwes Landbou (Edms) Bpk – SWL
018 581 1000
Thebe Securities Limited – TBE
012 643 0916
Tlotlisa Securities (Pty) Ltd – TSE
011 506 7000
Tradekor (Pty) Ltd – TDK
011 721 3100
Trademar Futures (Pty) Ltd – TMR
011 244 9860
TTSA Securities (Pty) Ltd – IMB
011 277 5323
Unigrain (Pty) Ltd – UNG
011 692 4400
UT Grain Management (Pty) Ltd – UNI
011 452 5117
Vanguard Derivatives (Pty) Ltd – MMM
011 722 7511
Vantage Capital Markets SA – VCM
011 326 2239
Verus Farming & Commodities (Pty) Ltd VFC
031 467 0308
Vorlon (Pty) Ltd – VOR
011 502 2760
Vrystaat Koöperasie Beperk – VRY
058 863 8280
Vrystaat Mielies (Edms) Bpk –VMB
018 294 2200
Clearing Members Member and member code
Contact details
ABSA Clearing – VKSC
011 895 7245
JP Morgan Securities SA (Pty) Ltd JPMC
+44 207 325 3687
Nedbank Clearing – NEDC
011 667 1317
Rand Merchant Bank – RMBC
011 282 8375
Standard Bank Clearing – STDC
011 636 8431
For an updated list see www.jse.co.za
13. Commercial farmer points of interest Learning from past mistakes – a word of caution: Experts advise that the exchange is better used for protection against price fluctuations, not for quick profit. Some market participants have been caught short because they thought that they could read the market and left themselves open to price volatility. It is easy to make money on a rising market (bull phase), but when it ends you could suffer great losses. Farmers and experts alike, and unfortunately some pension funds, have lost money by speculating on SAFEX.
Any farmer can have SAFEX prices delivered to their cell phone. Some use these as indicators and sign fixed-price contracts based on that exchange price. However, if the price changes those farmers will still have to accept the contract price, even though it is worse than the current exchange price. Tips for Farmers: • Keep in touch with the supply and demand conditions relating to your commodity. Try to obtain price forecasts, from 2 to 3 different sources. • Regularly contact their grain brokers to get their opinion of the market – whether prices are going to rise in the future or decline, and their reasons for this. Understand domestic and world markets. • Understand the limitations of price forecasting – accurate forecasting is impossible. • Have a well thought-out, written marketing plan. It is recommended that you follow and chart futures prices daily. Analysis of why prices were strong or weak on a particular day is one of the most efficient methods of gaining knowledge of the grain markets. • Where your marketing plan includes hedging; futures or options, be sure to include the costs in your calculations. • Your marketing plan should be updated regularly and objectively. • Use this information when deciding to sell or store your crop to take advantage of future price increase. • Realise that high prices often stimulate production which can result in prices declining, hence the importance of locking in prices when prices are high. • Do not store for too long, as storage fees are high and you will lose interest on the money you could have made if you sold. Farmers can always obtain the upside of rising prices with the use of financial instruments on the JSE. Consider all the costs involved and include shrinkage. • Understand the futures markets – since futures are traded up to 12 months in advance, they extend the marketing season from a few weeks to 12 months – allowing you to take advantage of frequent temporary price increases. • If prices increase at any stage – because of weakening exchange rates, weather and crop factors, international supply and demand factors and intentions to plant later in the year – then you have an opportunity to take part in those price increases. This strategy prevents “if only” scenarios. • Prior to planting any crop, a farmer must see what price the futures contract for that commodity is trading at the time of planting i.e. July contract. If it is profitable to plant based on that price using an average three-year yield for that commodity, he can go ahead and plant. He must however hedge (lock in) that price by either forward contracting / or buying puts or futures. This means that he will not be exposed to possible price declines before he harvests the crop. • Understand the options markets: Options offer new opportunities. Buy insurance against adverse price movements without you losing the benefits associated with favourable price movements. You do not have to put up margin money, as in the futures market and do not have to worry about having sufficient cash to meet margin calls. Also, there is no production risk associated with your marketing decision. Should your production be less than expected, you are not committed to delivery grain or offsetting your position. The ultimate value of these options depends on the cost of the insurance premium, (which changes daily), and the risk of adverse price movements. For more information on options go to: www.standardbank.co.za. Source:
‘Finance for Farmers’ Standard Bank.
Sources: Rod Gravelet-Blondin (JSE Ltd); “Finance and the Farmer”, Standard Bank Agricultural Division. The websites mentioned in this chapter Thanks to Rod Gravelet-Blondin (JSE Limited) for updating the draft chapter.
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Marketing and finance Co-operatives 1. Overview Among all business organisations, co-operatives reach down most to the low income groups. That does not mean that co-operatives are for the poor only: co-operatives are ALSO for the poor. They help people help themselves by organised self-help in the co-operative way. Helping people to help themselves means: • making them aware of needs and problems they have in common; • giving them access to information about co-operative values, principles and practices; • giving them the chance to learn how to work together the co-operative way for the benefit of each individual member and of the group as a whole. National and provincial government promote co-operatives as a type of business entity and a means to get informal economic actors involved in and benefitting from the formal economy. What isn’t possible for the individual is possible when many persons act together.
2. Co-operatives: a definition A co-operative is defined as “an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly owned and democratically controlled enterprise” (definition by the International Co-operative Alliance). We can break down this definition into five main points in order to understand it more clearly: • A co-operative is an independent organisation. It must stand or fall on its own feet. • A co-operative is a group of persons who freely decide to come together to meet common needs and goals. • A co-operative is jointly owned. Its primary duty is to its members, not to anyone else outside the co-operative. The benefits of the cooperative are shared by all of the members. • A co-operative is controlled democratically, so that each member has an equal voice in decisions. • A co-operative must follow co-operative principles (see next heading) in its organisation and activities.
3. Seven Co-operative Principles There are seven co-operative principles that are followed by co-operatives all over the world. Everyone who is involved in a co-operative should know and understand these basic co-operative principles. • Voluntary and open membership – nobody is forced to be a member, and there is no gender, social, racial, political or religious discrimination. • Democratic member control – Co-operatives are democratic organisations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting their policies and making decisions. Elected representatives are accountable to the membership. In primary co-operatives members have equal voting rights (one member, one vote). Members becoming uninvolved often leads to the collapse of the co-operative.
• Member economic participation – Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their co-operative. At least part of that capital is usually the common property of the co-operative. Surpluses may be used to develop the co-operative further; paying members in proportion to their transactions with the co-operative; and supporting other activities approved by the membership. • Autonomy and independence – Co-operatives are independent, self-help organisations controlled by their members. If they enter into agreements with other organisations, including governments, or raise capital from external sources, they do so on terms that ensure control remains with their members. • Education, training and information – Co-operatives provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers, and employees so they can contribute effectively to the development of their cooperatives. They inform the general public – particularly young people and opinion leaders – about the nature and benefits of co-operation. • Co-operation among co-operatives – Co-operatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the co-operative movement by working together through local, national, regional and international structures. • Concern for community – Co-operatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies approved by their members. The co-operative principles are guidelines by which co-operatives put their values into practice.
4. Types of co-operatives Co-operatives are usually understood to be either an agricultural form of business or a state-driven welfare intervention. The law does not place any limit on the kinds of co-operatives that can be registered, though. These are some of the possibilities: • An agricultural co-operative is a co-operative that produces, processes or markets agricultural products and supplies agricultural inputs and services to its members. • A consumer co-operative is a co-operative that gets and distributes goods to its members and non-members, and also provides services to its members. A co-operative which buys bulk groceries and sells them to its members and to the public, while giving its members a special discount or a refund based on the amount of their transactions, is an example of a consumer co-operative. • A marketing and supply co-operative means a co-operative that supplies production inputs to members and markets or processes their products. An example is a sewing co-operative that provides fabric and sewing machines to its members and then markets the items they sew. This category also includes agricultural marketing and supply cooperatives. • A housing co-operative is a primary co-operative that provides housing to it members, or a secondary co-operative that provides technical service to primary housing co-operatives. • A financial services co-operative is a primary co-operative with the main purpose of providing financial services to its members, or a secondary co-operative that provides financial services to a primary cooperative. An example is a savings and loan co-operative, where the members pool their savings and make loans to each other. • A social co-operative is a non-profit co-operative that provides social services to its members, such as care for the elderly, children and the sick. • A co-operative burial society is a co-operative that provides funeral benefits, including funeral insurance and related services, to its members and their dependants. • A services co-operative is a co-operative that provides housing, health care, child care, transportation, communication or other services. • A worker co-operative is a primary co-operative that provides employment to its members, or a secondary co-operative that provides services to primary worker co-operatives. NOTE: It is possible to combine different types of co-operatives into a multipurpose co-operative.
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5. Why form agricultural co-operatives? The importance of agricultural co-operatives is job creation, mobilising resources, generating investment and their contribution to the economy. In their various forms agricultural co-operatives promote the fullest participation in the economy and social development of all people. Agricultural co-operatives serve their members in the following ways: • Improve bargaining power: combining the volume of several members improves their position when dealing with other businesses. • Reduced purchasing costs: volume purchasing reduces the purchasing price of needed supplies. • Obtaining market access or broadening market opportunities: more buyers are attracted because of the value you can add, and the assurance you can offer to clients looking for larger quantities. • Improve products or service quality: member satisfaction is achieved through improved facilities, equipment and services. • Obtaining products or services otherwise unavailable: agricultural co-operatives often provide services or products that would not attract other private businesses. • Reduce cost / increase income: reducing the operating costs increases the amount of earnings available for distribution to members to boost their income. Source: Adapted from Guidelines for establishing Agricultural Co-operatives. Find the document on www.daff.gov.za
6. Finances See notes on SACCOL and Dora Tamana under heading 8 of this chapter.
Grants and donations Some co-operatives try to raise additional funds from donor and development agencies, NGOs or governmental sources, who occasionally set aside funds to support co-operative development. Grants and donations are a possible way to help a co-operative that is struggling to obtain access to funds. Nonetheless it must be noted that this source of funding carries with it potential problems: • They can contribute to dependency, as co-operative members may have less incentive to make the organisation work on its own feet. In the long term this might mean that co-ops do not become selfreliant and wait for an outside agent to intervene whenever there are problems. • They can also mean some loss of autonomy as many grants will have prescriptions and conditions attached, according to the agendas of the funding bodies. Grants and donations available to co-operatives can be researched by looking at the various corporate social investment schemes offered by private companies, parastatals, and government departments.
Loans Most small business enterprises in the world obtain funding through the lending cycle. Applying for loans is an important way for co-operatives to access the capital needed to purchase equipment and pay for training of co-operative members. The drawback to this form of funding is the limited access many poor South Africans have to financial institutions as well as the high interest rates and services fees charged to people. In South Africa the following institutions play an important role in providing loans through the lending cycle: 1. Commercial banks are privately owned (e.g.: Standard Bank, ABSA, FNB). The main objective of commercial banks is to maximise profits. The loans they give have interest rates that clients must pay in addition to the amount that they have borrowed. 2. State Owned Development Banks and Agencies. Emerging businesses often find that these institutions offer services that are not available to them by commercial banks.
• The Land Bank: provides finance to all sectors of the agricultural economy and agri-business. Co-operatives that are involved in these activities are entitled to apply for finance. For more information on services visit the Land Bank website www.landbank.co.za or call the toll free queries number: 0800 00 52 59. • Find out about Co-operatives Incentive Scheme (CIS) run by the Department of Trade and Industry – contact details under heading 7. • The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA): provides finances to projects related to the development of infrastructure. Co-operatives whose work focuses on development of infrastructure are entitled to apply for funds from this bank. The operations office can be contacted at 011 313 3911. • The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) finances initiatives in different sectors, such as: manufacturing, small scale mining, agriculture, transport, tourism, fishing, information and communication technology, business services, etc. Clients of this loan must show assets and/or a certain amount of savings. This is a draw back for many emerging cooperatives that are just beginning. The IDC can be contacted at www. idc.co.za. • Department of Trade and Industry’s Khula Enterprise Finance Ltd: Khula provides loans for smaller enterprises that do not qualify for IDC loans. Khula works through Retail Financial Intermediaries to disperse the loans. One way in which co-operatives can access these loans is through a SACCO (Savings and Credit Co-operative) that can act as an RFI. More information on the Khula project can be accessed at www. khula.org.za. Provincial contacts are listed on the website and below: - Bloemfontein 051 444 1040 / 0860 548 522 - C ape Tow n 021 671 9056 / 0860 548 521 - Durban 031 301 1916 / 0860 548 526 - East London 043 726 0756 / 0860 548 527 - Kimberley 053 832 2275 / 0860 548 528 - Johannesburg 011 838 7638 / 0860 548 529 - Nelspruit 013 755 2370 / 0860 548 520 - Polokw ane 015 294 0901 / 0860 254 852 - Port Elizabeth 041 363 2570 / 0860 354 852 - Rustenburg 014 592 6391 / 0860 454 852 - Tshw ane 012 324 8236 / 0860 554 852 • The Independent Development Trust operates largely within the realm of the second economy, supporting government to implement developmental projects. Find the paper “Co-operatives as a Model for Development” on their website www.idt.org.za. • Provincial development agencies – e.g. the Limpopo Business Support Agency (Libsa) – give financial assistance to co-operatives. Find details of provincial bodies in the Providers of Financial Services chapter.
7. National strategy and government contacts Co-operatives have been so successful in certain parts of the world that the South African government wants more people to start co-operatives here. If co-operatives are set up in the right way – with enough commitment, support and planning – they can play a major role in helping provide jobs and fight poverty.
Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Directorate: Agricultural Development Finance Co-operative Development Support Unit Tel: 012 319 7295
[email protected] Tel: 012 319 6714 / 084 688 7377
[email protected] Tel: 012 319 7909
[email protected] Tel: 012 319 6965
[email protected] Tel: 012 319 7885 As a government institution tasked with economic development in the agricultural sector, DAFF views the development of agricultural cooperatives as central to farmer empowerment in the Second Economy. The mobilisation of farmers through co-operatives serves two purposes: the first purpose is that co-operatives are used as delivery systems for government programmes; the second purpose is that farmers are able to receive agricultural services that would have been impossible to acquire individually.
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As economic development organisations, co-operatives are expected to render certain cervices to their members. It is believed that there are certain services that members of co-operatives need and cannot access them on their own as individuals. That is the underlying philosophy of co-operation. These services can be listed as follows: • • • • •
supply of agricultural inputs access to finance marketing of agricultural output value adding or agro-processing Human Resource development
The ultimate objectives of the Department are to support farmers in the Second Economy so that they can contribute effectively to job creation in agriculture and also to make them active participants in the Economy by increasing the output of the sector.
Other government departments The dti and CIPRO assumes responsibility for the registration of co-operatives in South Africa.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Co-operative Enterprise Development Unit Tel: 012 394 9500 www.thedti.gov.za Find the “co-operatives development” menu option on the website
Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (Previously CIPRO) Registrar of Intellectual Property Tel: 0861 843 384 For the registration of co-operatives in South Africa. National Treasury Find notes on the Co-operative Banks Development Agency under heading 8.
Agricultural Business Chamber Tel: 012 349 1315 / 082 441 2308 Fax: 012 349 1330 www.agbiz.co.za
Co-operative Banks Development Agency (CBDC) Tel: 012 315 5367 www.treasury.gov.za/coopbank
The Agricultural Colleges and Provincial Departments of Agriculture run short courses on agricultural co-operative management.
Find the “Documents” and “FAQ’s” options.
Co-operative and Policy Alternative Center (COPAC) Tel: 011 447 1013 www.copac.org.za
Deutscher Genossenschaftsund Raiffeisenverband (DGRV) German Co-operative and Raiffeisen Confederation Tel: 012 346 6020 / 083 629 8326
[email protected] www.dgrvsa.co.za DGRV is the national apex organisation and top-level auditing federation of the German cooperative sector.
“Building worker co-operatives, supporting the cooperative For more then 20 years DGRV movement, promoting the co- is involved in co-operative operative sector and economy”. development activities worldwide.
Home of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises Trust (HOST) C/o SACCOL
International Labour Organisation (ILO) In fulfilling its mandate, DGRV is Tel: 012 341 2170 providing advice and assistance
[email protected] www.ilo.org to co-operatives in South Africa. These activities range from Co-operatives is one of the areas agricultural co-operatives, to in which the ILO provides technical savings and credit co-operatives, assistance. and to co-operatively organised self-help initiatives in townships. Invest North West (INW) DGRV offers demand driven and Tel: 014 594 2570 outcome oriented training in co- Fax: 014 594 2575/6 operatives and business principles www.inw.org.za as well as in accounting and bookkeeping to these groups, including INW does co-operatives institution on-the-job training and follow-up building measures. Further training activities include training-of-trainer programs Limpopo Business Support for government personnel and Agency (Libsa) other service providers. For this Tel: 015 287 3000 purpose DGRV has established www.libsa.co.za training and conference facilities on Find details of co-operative their premises in Pretoria. development on the website (take the “Key Programmes” menu In addition to this a model-bakery option). The website also provides has been opened, where a qualified links to numerous co-operatives master baker offers basic and e.g. the Champaign Chicken advanced training in baking and Meat Co-operative, Bohlabela confectionary. Chicken Broiling Co-operative, Peanut Butter Khula – find details under heading Thohoyandou Manufacturing Co-operative etc. 6, or visit www.khula.org.za. Micro-agricultural Financial Institution of South Africa (MAFISA) Tel: 012 319 7216 The management, legal and
[email protected] structural framework of cooperatives in South Africa is well MAFISA is a micro and retail adapted to the implementation agricultural financial scheme for of the National Organic Produce economically active poor people. Initiative (NOPI) concept of The organisation provides savings “Organic Villages”. The project is and banking facilities at approved an integrated solution to empower financial institutions and offers and liberate small-scale farmers loans for production inputs (e.g. in South Africa and is endorsed fertilisers, seeds, pesticides, etc.), and supported by South African livestock, small-scale irrigation Council for Organic Development systems and small-scale farming and Sustainability (SACODAS). equipment and implements to NOPI provides all the regulatory small and emerging farmers and guidance and recommendations for other target groups. the institutionalisation of “Organic Villages”. National Youth Development Agency Dora Tamana Co-operative Formerly National Youth Commission Centre (DTCC) / Dora Tamana and the Umsobomvu Youth Fund Savings and Credit CoTel: 011 651 7000 operative Centre www.nyda.gov.za C/o SACCOL Youth co-operatives intent on making a success with co-operatives can approach the NYDA. NOPILIFE (National Organic Produce Initiative) Tel: 011 887 0800 / 073 303 1554
8. Groups involved
Cactis Agencies Tel: 083 407 7060
[email protected]
Our development and consultancy activities are performed with the objective to foster both local and economic development (especially SMME) and to contribute to poverty alleviation.
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National Women in Agribusiness country with great growth Co-operative (NAWACO) potential, as millions of people are Tel: 035 870 3978 inadequately served by the banking sector. Based in KwaZulu-Natal, Nawaco targets women with an interest in Scientific Roets (Pty) Ltd agribusiness. It provides information Tel: 039 727 1515 on how women can take advantage www.scientificroets.com of the agribusiness sector. Co-operatives is one of the areas North West University in which this consulting company Potchefstroom Business School does training. Centre for Co-operatives Dr Louw van der Walt Small Enterprise Development Tel: 018 299 1412/3 Agency (SEDA) Cell: 083 658 9013 Tel: 012 441 1000 Tel: 0860 103703 The objectives of the Centre www.seda.org.za is to assist members with the establishment of co-operatives, to Seda provides small business and develop and offer training courses, medium-sized enterprises with an to undertake research into co- invaluable gateway to information operatives, to publish co-operative on starting, managing and growing research outcomes and to maintain a business, business opportunities a resource centre of co operative and support for small business. Find the “Co-operatives” menu materials. option on the website. There is also vital information on coQhubekisa Agri Co-operative Tel: 079 965 5656 / 072 641 1212 operatives under the “Starting Your Own Business” option (click
[email protected] on “Legal Issues” and look for the “Co-operative Business” option). The Savings and Credit Cooperative League of SA South African Institute for Limited (SACCOL) Entrepreneurship (SAIE) Tel: 021 422 3333 Tel: 021 447 2023 Tel: 011 440 6750 www.entrepreneurship.co.za SACCOL was established by Savings and Credit Co-operatives (SACCOs) and Credit Unions around South Africa as their National Association. SACCOL functions:
has
three
Details of their projects appear on their website
Yebo Co-operative Ltd Tel: 012 755 8377
[email protected] primary www.yebocoop.co.za
• to represent the SACCO movement both locally and inter-nationally; • to provide development services to SACCOs. SACCOL services its member organisations by providing training, advice and other technical services as well as accepting deposit from and making loans to its members; • to regulate SACCOs. SACCOL is member of the ACCOSCA, the African Confederation of Cooperative Savings and Credit Associations.
Yebo is a registered co-operative formed by various business groups and co-operatives from all the provinces of South Africa in March 2003 as their own(ed) support and service organisation. Their focus has been a target market based in rural areas, townships and informal settlements. Yebo membership is comprised of Stockvels, Burial Societies, Clubs, Co-operatives, and Co-operatively Organised Groups.
Yebo specialises in teaching people about mechanisms of how to generating their own money and coupled with that is a training on how to use their disposable income ACCOSCA, in turn, together with to create sustainable business that 86 counties in 7 regions world- could help them in alleviating wide makes up WOCCU, the poverty. World Council of Credit Unions. WOCCU sees South Africa as a
9. Websites and publications • Various research issues are explored relating to co-operatives – enquire at faculties such as the Social Science/economics departments/websites of universities, or at organisations referred to in this chapter. • www.ncba.coop/clusa.cfm – the Cooperative League USA (CLUSA) International Program has worked in developing countries to economically empower individuals and communities through development of effective, sustainable group businesses and democratic practices. • Co-operatives in South Africa: Their Role in Job Creation and Poverty Reduction. Kate Philips. South African Foundation (October 2003). • International Co-operative Alliance – www.coop.org • Find the document LED and co-operatives in South Africa – summary outcome of a workshop at www.led.co.za • Another valuable article is “How farmers organise”, the editorial of LEISA Magazine in March 2007. Find it at www.leisa.info
Where to find out more If there is a group of you – or even a whole community – who want to start an enterprise where everyone benefits equally, and where profits are equitably shared with everyone involved, then it makes sense to start a co-operative enterprise. It must still be operated and managed with the same discipline and systems that apply in any business, so that people work efficiently and income exceeds expenditure, even if its principles are different, ensuring that the benefits of the enterprise are more widely spread. Find the menu option on co-operatives on the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) website – www.seda.org.za. Find seventeen manuals on developing a co-operative at www.daff. gov.za. Take the Publications, General Publications and then “Training manuals: Cooperatives” options. Also see the Info Pak “How to form a co-operative”, also under the Publications option. Find the “Co-operatives Development” option on the Department of Trade and Industry website, www.thedti.gov.za Visit the websites of roleplayers mentioned in this chapter.
Our gratitude to the DGRV and Bernd Harms once again (see heading 8) for help with this chapter.
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Marketing and finance Development financial services 1. Overview Financial services contribute to activities that have a positive impact on poverty alleviation and rural development. It is critical for sustainable growth that all citizens are able to participate meaningfully in the economy. A lack of access to finance remained a key barrier to the growth and development of small business enterprises. The provision of financial services, vital to poorer people in a developing country, includes microcredit but needs to go beyond this; after all, most prefer access to savings and transactional services than turning to credit. The National Small Business Act and the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative (AsgiSA) are two initiatives by the government intended to bridge the gap between the first and second economies and address existing inequalities. Find out more about these on www.polity.org.za and www. gov.za Source: (adapted) www.microfinance.up.ac.za, website of the Centre for Microfinance based at the University of Pretoria
What is credit and why do you need it? Credit is money borrowed from someone or from a bank by agreement with the promise to pay it back at a later date, with or without interest. Commercial banks grant credit to farmers for various purposes e.g. for equipment, vehicles, land, livestock, irrigation equipment, water pumps, etc. The bank will want to know how the credit is going to be used and what your financial position is (assets and liabilities). Your bank will want to know this in order to assess your ability to generate income and pay back the loan. The bank will look at your: • • • •
assets and liabilities (financial standing); present and expected income (cash flow); risks involved and how you plan to cover them; knowledge of the industry in which you want to get involved.
Ask your financial advisor or extension officer or to assist you to compile this information. The extension officer is a person who works for the Department of Agriculture in your area and who is trained to assist farmers in agricultural matters. When and how much can you borrow? • Know the purpose for which you are borrowing money – to improve the performance of your farming operations. • Do not apply for credit that will generate too little income to cover the interest and capital (money borrowed) repayments. • Therefore, the expected net income (income left over after all expenses have been deducted, except tax and interest) will give a good indication of how much debt the project will be able to carry. • When applying for credit, make sure that your debt is not more than 30% of your current assets and 25% of the expected income.
The term “Emerging Farmer” is commonly applied both to farmers who are emerging in terms of scale and to farmers who are emerging in terms of lack of skills.
Repaying the bank. Before any commercial bank can grant a loan, it determines whether your income exceeds your costs to such an extent that there will be enough money to repay the loan and to cover household expenses.
Farmers who are emerging in terms of scale battle with problems such as access to markets, quality inputs, land and finance. These farmers are no riskier than other categories of farmers. Rather, it is the environment in which they operate that brings increased risk.
The bank will ask for a collateral or security for the loan. A collateral or security is property pledged as security for the loan. Should you fail to repay your loan, the bank will repossess your property and sell it to realise its security.
The business of a tomato grower in Giyani is obviously riskier than that of ZZ2 because the scale is smaller and market access is not there. But in terms of production techniques, the Giyani grower is equal to any top farmer.
Property which is presented as collateral must meet certain requirements: • • • •
It must be identifiable and not perishable. It must be in a saleable condition. The bank must be able to estimate its market value. It must be your own property and preferably not immovable.
These farmers need a financing programme that includes support structures. For example, if such a farmer can be assisted to acquire a contract to supply a large retailer, this contract can be ceded to us in security for his or her loan. But it is also important to look beyond retailers for off-take agreements, especially as there is large untapped potential in informal markets.
Repaying the loan within a given time limit will improve your credit worthiness and credibility with the bank and also save on interest charges.
Source: Andrew Makanete
How to apply
2. Credit NB Only credit grantors that are registered with the National Credit Regulator (NCR) may grant credit. Visit www.ncr.org.za to find out more, including information and tips, debt counselling etc
Getting a loan or credit from a commercial bank Farmers who want to establish or expand their farming operations can obtain finance from commercial banks. It is, however, important that they understand the terms and conditions of credit, e.g. what credit is and repayment requirements.
The best incentive to repay a loan is to have access to future loans.
• Once you have identified why you have to borrow money, you can go to your nearest bank and fill in application forms. Your application should contain all the relevant information because it forms the basis for negotiations with the bank manager. • After submitting the forms, the bank will call you in for an interview. (You are allowed to take someone who knows your business well with you, if you like). • During the interview you will be given a chance to motivate your proposal, negotiate the possible loan terms and also to develop a good business relationship with your bank manager – prepare the presentation of your loan request beforehand. • The bank manager will tell you after the interview whether your application was successful or not. See the Banks chapter for contact details of roleplayers
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3. What is a Credit Guarantee?
4. Government departments and associations
Farmers who do not have title deeds to the land they farm or who cannot meet the other conventional commercial bank security requirements are often excluded from access to agricultural finance. Obtaining Credit Guarantees is one of the remedies.
The following are involved, regulating how finance is made available:
For the individual:
Association for pro poor Micro Finance Institutions for South Africa (AMFISA) www.amfisa.org.za
A credit guarantee is aimed at assisting borrowers to obtain normal banking facilities to enable them to establish, expand or acquire a new or existing business. Under normal lending criteria, they would not qualify for such finance since they would not have the support of an indemnity cover.
The Banking Association South Africa Tel: 011 645 6700 www.banking.org.za
“Indemnity cover means the extent to which a Fund indemnifies the Bank against the Bank’s irrecoverable loss in relation to the Facility concerned (expressed as a percentage).”
Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Directorate: Agricultural Development Finance Tel: 012 319 7295
[email protected]
Microfinance South Africa Tel: 012 348 0809 www.mfsa.net
DAFF signed a partnership agreement with Khula Enterprise Finance to extend financial services to emerging farmers and agribusinesses which will see the establishment of the Khula-Mafisa Fund. The fund will provide a portfolio indemnity to financial institutions that provide production loans to emerging black farmers within the Khula-Mafisa target market.
National Credit Regulator (NCR) Tel: 0860 627 627 www.ncr.org.za
For the company: Credit Insurance offers your company three main benefits: • risk protection – protection against non-payment; • better financing – enhanced financing mechanisms by providing added security to finance providers; • increased sales – credit Insurance will enable you to sell more goods to new and existing clients while substantially reducing the overall risk. What is credit insurance? Domestic Credit Insurance offers protection against non-payment of debts (e.g. due to insolvency or protracted default) incurred by debtors based in South Africa and/or the common monetary area. Source: www.creditguarantee.co.za
A loan guarantee fund provides and ensures access to finance and technical skills by black emerging agribusiness entrepreneurs and farmers. Many commercial banks and the Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) in the country participate in the guarantee scheme.
How is it done? We shall look at ways in which collateral may be obtained for small-scale/ emerging farmers, allowing them the space and opportunity to develop their agricultural business. • Submit a business plan to any of these institutions - banks or DFIs who will have the capacity to assess the viability, feasibility and creditworthiness of the agribusiness projects and borrowers. • The participating banks screen and approve, in principle, the applications from prospective borrowers qualifying for guarantee by the fund. In each case they look at the parameters of the fund’s qualifying criteria. • Upon approval in principle by the bank, it will lodge a fully completed written application (together with the necessary supporting documents and information required in the business plan) to the designated officer representing the Trustees of the Fund. • The Fund considers and approves or rejects the application within ten business days of receipt thereof, which will be notified to the bank. • The bank then needs to notify (within three months) the Fund that the guarantee has been taken up by the borrower, failing which the guarantee application as granted will lapse. • From the time of the approval of the application until the bank credit together with finance charges has been repaid, the bank shall administer the repayments according to banking practice and procedures, which might include: 1. Q uarterly financial statements from the borrow er; 2. Enforcing the terms of credit in terms of prudent banking practice etc. Banks who participate in credit guarantees include ABSA, African Bank, Bank of Athens, FNB, Nedcor, People’s Bank and Standard Bank.
The arrangement improves access to credit by farmers, mainly black and emerging farmers, who have insufficient collateral but are bankable. Through this, the emerging farmers will have the opportunity to build a credit track record allowing them to graduate to commercial farming level. This will improve their productivity thereby increasing the sector’s contribution to job creation and further ensuring food production and food security and contributing into the country’s economy. Directorate: Business and Entrepreneurial Development Tel: 012 319 8459/60 Tel: 012 319 8133/54 Find out about other DAFF/ government programmes like CASP and LRAD in the Land Reform and Emerging Farmer Support chapters. Department of Trade & Industry Tel: 012 394 9500 www.thedti.gov.za Financial Services Board Tel: 012 428 8000 Tel: 0800 110 443/ 0800 2020 87 www.fsb.co.za The Financial Services Board is a unique independent institution
established by statute to oversee the South African Non-Banking Financial Services Industry in the public interest. Their mission is to promote sound and efficient financial institutions and services together with mechanisms for investor protection in the markets we supervise.
The “recognised voice of reputable microfinanciers”
To prevent abuse by lenders of credit (e.g. exorbitant interest rates, unfair blacklisting) Registrar of Banks Tel: 012 313 3770 Fax: 012 313 3929 www.resbank.co.za South African Credit Cooperative League (SACCOL) Tel: 021 422 3333 www.saccol.org.za SACCOL Ltd. was established by Savings and Credit Co-operatives (SACCOs) and Credit Unions around South Africa as their National Association. South African Savings Institute (SASI) Tel: 011 269 3789 www.savingsinstitute.co.za SASI is committed to playing a meaningful role in securing sustained growth in the national savings rate to enhance the financial health of the nation and the wellbeing of its citizens. South African Micro-Finance Apex Fund (SAMAF) Tel: 012 394 1796/03 www.samaf.org.za The Apex Fund (samaf) is one of the instruments designed to close this gap of inequality by providing access to affordable financial services deeper and broader to the enterprising poor. Provincial contact details are on the website.
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5. Roleplayers Microloan Guarantors like Khula Enterprises were founded by The Department of Trade and Industry in 1994 to provide collateral for small businesses applying for SMME finance from commercial banks. It was given the responsibility to make it easier for small businesses to access finance. Other organisations, tasked with aspects such as training and support services and initiated by the dti, have been grouped under the SEDA umbrella. The Corporate Social Investment (CSI) part of the BEE scorecard allows rewards companies whose financial contributions favour Black people. Read more in the Black Economic Empowerment chapter. Since its inception in 2004, over six million South Africans have opened Mzansi bank accounts which provide previously un-banked clients easy access to banking services countrywide. The service was established following a recommendation by the Financial Services Charter (FSC) and is supported by the country’s four largest banks and the Post Office. Mzansi has increased the percentage of banked South Africans from 45% to 63% with the potential of reaching 78% of South Africans. (Mail & Guardian 30 June 2009, quoting FinMark Trust research) Co-operative banks – refer to the chapter on co-operatives. The commercial banks have specialist SME divisions, providing finance for qualified entrepreneurs. Contact the banks or visit their websites to find out about their products and services, and their criteria to obtain finance. Most banks also participate in credit guarantees. Banks are not the only places that provide start-up finance to entrepreneurs. It’s just a matter of doing your research, having a good business plan and then being prepared to sell yourself. Find provincial and regional development agencies in the “Providers of financial services” chapter. We list two of them here: Ntinga OR Tambo Development Agency Tel: 047 531 0346 www.ntinga.org.za
Invest North West Tel: 014 594 2570 www.inw.org.za
A “special purpose vehicle responsible for spearheading Local Economic Development” in the OR Tambo district (Eastern Cape). Development Finance Institutions: Independent Development Trust (IDT) Tel: 012 845 2000 www.idt.org.za
Retail Finance Intermediaries (RFIs) are institutions that obtain loans from Khula in order to loan the money to clients in their communities. Different RFIs have different target markets depending on their operations. RFIs also use the Khula Credit Guarantee Scheme to access additional funds from participating banks. RFIs charge different interest rates depending on the risk involved in the application. Find a list of these on www.khula.org.za – take the “Products”, “Loans” menu options. Enterprise information centres (EICs) assist the SMME with business plans, company registration, proposals for funding and more. They are contracted to the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA). Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) can be contacted at 012 441 1238 or faxed at 012 441 2238. Details of EICs with which we could make contact are listed below:
KwaZulu-Natal EICs EIC Location
Service Provider
Contact Details
Richards Bay
Entrepreneurial Suport Services
Tel: 035 797 1821 Fax: 035 797 1849
Kokstad
Scientific Roets
Tel: 039 727 1515 Cell: 083 630 7787
Mkhanyakude
Maputaland Development and Information
Tel: 035 592 0125 Cell: 072 077 2408
Impendle
Project Gateway
Tel: 033 845 0400 Cell: 076 914 8980
Tongaat
KwaZulu Natal Development Foundation
Tel: 032 945 2531
Free State EICs EIC Location
Service Provider
Contact Details
Setshabelo Township
Seshupo Management Services CC (T/A Mokhuane and associates)
Tel: 051 448 7735 Cell: 083 244 7937
Welkom, Kroonstad
Procuremet Marketing Consultancy (Pty) Ltd
Tel: 057 353 2065 Cell: 082 905 2715
Harrismith
Education with Enterprise Trust (EWET)
Tel: 058 623 0104 /0649/ 0123 Cell: 082 465 3573 Fax: 058 623 0107 / 0118 www.ewet.org.za
Find regional telephone details in the co-operatives chapter. More comprehensive contact details can be found on the website.
Contact details for their provincial Land Bank offices are on the website. Tel: 0800 00 52 59 www.landbank.co.za Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) The National Development Call centre: 0860 693 888 Agency (NDA) www.idc.co.za Tel: 011 018 5500 www.nda.org.za Khula Finance Limited Tel: 0800 11 8815/ 012 394 5560 NDA’s primary mandate is to Fax: 012 394 6901 eradicate poverty by granting funds www.khula.org.za to civil society organisations that implement developmental projects Khula provides a guarantee of in all provinces (explore their 80% on the loan, which has interactive maps on their website). been approved by a commercial bank. Credit Guarantee schemes National Youth Development include: Agency Tel: 08600 96884 • Individual Guarantees Fax: 011 805 9709 • Institutional Guarantees www.nyda.gov.za • Portfolio Guarantee Scheme
Mpumalanga ECIs EIC Location
Service Provider
Contact details
Thaba Chweu / Beehive Lydenburg Entrepreneurial Dev. Centre – Lydenburg
Tel: 013 235 1695 Fax: 013 235 4227/4436
Thembisile / Empumalanga
Diale Maphothoma & Assosciates
Tel: 013 947 0315 Cell: 083 585 5664
[email protected]
Mbombela / Nelspruit
Global Village Project Management
Tel: 013 752 6333 Cell: 082 868 7874
Dr SJ Moroka / Siyabuswa
Midveld Industrial Chamber of Commerce (MICAC)
Tel: 013 986 0737
Umjindi / Nelspruit
Megro Learning Centre
Tel: 013 752 5525 Cell: 083 310 4203
Highlands/ Belfast
Umndeni Enterprises
Tel: 013 253 1748 Fax: 086 653 5458
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Northern Cape EICs
Gauteng EICs Service Provider
Contact Details
EIC Location
Service Provider
Contact Details
Braamfontein
Business Opportunity Centre (BOC)
Tel: 011 839 2750/3 www.brainsa.co.za
Kimberley
Tel: 053 832 4632 Cell: 083 599 4233
Randfontein
Bantsho Management and Marketing Strategies
Tel: 011 692 3287 Cell: 083 252 4050 www.bantsho.co.za
Creative Thinking Trading 524 (T/A Eyethu Services cc)
EIC Location
Pretoria Mid City Hemix Projects Centre
Tel: 012 323 0220 Cell: 072 493 7156
Soshanguve
Centre for Business Education and Training
Tel: 012 799 2842 Fax: 012 799 5954
Vereeniging / Sebokeng
Sedibeng Training Centre
Tel: 016 988 1350 Fax: 016 988 1347
Germiston/ Thokoza
KLECO Local Business Service Centre
Tel: 011 860 3415 Cell: 072 766 7068
Vosloorus
JMT Executive Tax and Marketing
Tel: 011 863 3966/70
Bronkhorstspruit
Library Business Information Corner
Tel: 013 932 6305/6 Fax: 013 932 4091
Benoni
Boikano Accountants Inc
Tel: 011 422 4083/4 www.boikano.co.za
Benoni
Maximum Development Institute (T/A Ekurhuleni Business Advice and Information Centre)
Tel: 011 421 5283 Cell: 082 408 0493 Fax: 011 421 5283
Eastern Cape EICs EIC Location
Service Provider
Contact Details
Mthatha
Khanyisa Business & Management Consultancy
Tel: 047 532 2685 Cell: 083 739 3347 Fax: 086 689 6018
Willowvale
Khanyisa Business & Management Consultancy
Cell: 083 739 3347
Port Elizabeth Sydenham
Comsec
Tel: 041 487 3996
East London
Terra Consulting Pty Ltd
Tel: 043 726 4272
Fort Beaufort
Intsukaze Employment & Skills Dev Agency
Tel: 046 645 2221 Cell: 084 840 3994
King William’s Town
The Business Place
Tel: 043 642 4477 Fax: 043 642 4798
Butterworth
Zola Management Consultants CC
Tel: 047 491 3574
Others
Limpopo EICs EIC Location
Service Provider
Contact Details
Makhado / Louis Trichardt
Rivoni Society for the Blind
Tel: 015 556 3207/8 Cell: 083 276 1059 Fax: 015 556 3087
Fetakgomo / Apel
Mokgalaka Business Development Services
Tel: 082 467 2863
Polokwane
Joint Education Project
Tel: 015 223 2386 Cell: 072 502 2978
North West EICs EIC Location
Service Provider
Contact Details
Potchefstroom
Small Business Advice Bureau
Tel: 018 299 1002 Cell: 082 880 7656/0
Brits
Furncol Training Centre
Tel: 012 258 0015 Cell: 083 468 4139 Fax: 012 258 0015
Western Cape EICs EIC Location
Service Provider
Contact Details
Rosebank
CLOTEX
Tel: 021 686 0522
Saldanha
West Coast Business Development Center
Tel: 022 714 1731 Cell: 084 767 7185
Gugulethu
Isibane Resource Center
Tel: 021 633 1883
Cape Town (Heerengracht)
Nicro
Tel: 021 462 0017 Fax: 021 462 2447
Khayelitsha
Zenzele Training Center
Tel: 021 36 11840 Fax: 021 361 1834 / 0274
The Agricultural Colleges provide short course training in financial skills. Find contact details in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter. Business Partners Limited Tel: 011 713 6600
[email protected] www.businesspartners.co.za Business Partners an investment company for small and medium enterprises, and has a range of support services to the entrepreneur. The company invests between R250 000 and R15 million in SMEs. They do not support farming, but may be able to help if you are looking to supply agricultural inputs or doing some form of processing. Centre for Microfinance (Based at the University of Pretoria) Tel: 012 420 5435 www.microfinance.up.ac.za The Centre fulfils four core functions: education, research, dissemination of information and providing support to other institutions. Export Credit Insurance Corporation of South Africa (ECIC) Tel: 012 471 3800 www.ecic.co.za
If you are exporting, the ECIC might be able to help. The ECIC evaluates export credit and foreign investment risks and provides export credit and foreign investment insurance cover on behalf of government. The National Emergent Red Meat Producer’s Organisation (NERPO) runs a farmer support Programme to enable agricultural entrepreneurs to develop into larger businesses. Contact 012 348 8566 or 083 640 5352. South African Institute for Entrepreneurship (SAIE) Tel: 021 447 2023 www.entrepreneurship.co.za Find details of agri projects countrywide on the website SBP Business Environment Specialists Tel: 011 486 0797 www.sbp.org.za Thembani International Guarantee Fund (TIGF) Tel: 012 362 0802 www.tigf.co.za Provides Credit Guarantees Thembeka Social Investment Company Tel: 021 447 8138 www.tembeka.co.za
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Marketing and finance Embassies and donor programmes 1. National strategy and government contacts Development Co-operation Information System International Development Cooperation Tel: 012 315 5969 Switchboard: 012 315 5111 www.dcis.gov.za
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Tel: 012 394 9500 www.dti.gov.za
Find the contact details for DTI foreign and regional offices by clicking on the “contact us” menu This website is an initiative of the option. South African National Treasury. It aims at providing information about Department of Government Official Development Assistance Communication and Information System (GCIS) (ODA) to South Africa. Tel: 012 314 2911/314 2900 Take the “Partners and Institutions”, www.gcis.gov.za then “International Development Co-operation Partners”. Options. Find the summary on Foreign Find the drop-down box. Countries Relations in the latest yearbook. around the world are listed: any details of grants and funds available Department of Agriculture, for use in South Africa are listed Forestry and Fisheries Directorate: International here. Relations Tel: 012 319 6801 Click on “ODA Reports” then www.daff.gov.za “Contact Lists” to get details on whom to contact for what kind of Find “International Trade” under funding. the “Divisions” option. Department of International Relations and Co-operation Previously Department of Foreign Affairs Tel: 012 351 1000 www.dfa.gov.za An important website from which the visitor is able to get find summaries of South Africa’s relationships other regions and individual countries. Foreign Representation in South Africa is also listed.
Australia Australian Agency for International Development – www.ausaid.gov.au. The LandCare programme of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has its roots in AusAid and Australia.
Belgium Tel: 012 440 3201/2 Fax: 012 440 3216 The Belgium government has been involved with financial and technical support to settle new farmers successfully. It sees agriculture as being essential to the economic development of this country.
South Africa’s international development partners consist of bilateral and multilateral donors and agencies that provide some form of Official Development Assistance (ODA) to South Africa. You can select any of these partners from the alphabetical drop-down list provided to view general/strategic, contact or project-specific information pertaining to that partner. Visit www.dcis.gov.za Visit www.africanmonitor.org, website of an independent body which “monitors funding commitments, delivery and impact on the grassroots”
Africa
• Community project fund • Water and sanitation (Masibambane III) • regional infrastructure in Africa • reinforcing the participation of South Africa in MWIRNET (SADC) • Pesticides Initiative Programme • Land Reform Credit facility • Risk Capital Facility
France The Agence Française de Développement Group (AFD) www.afd.fr
AFD is a public financial development organisation and Canada French Government arm for international support. Functioning Find notes on the International in nearly 70 countries worldwide, Development Research Centre AFD contributes to poverty at www.idrc.ca reduction, economic growth and environmental preservation. In Denmark 2008, 3 billion rand had been committed towards South Africa’s The Business Unit development. Tel: 012 430 9340 Presently, Denmark co-operates with eight programme countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Kenya, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia) and has some development activities with another two countries (South Africa and Niger). A main purpose of concentrating bilateral development assistance on a limited number of partner countries is to achieve “critical mass” as a donor, allowing Denmark to play a major role in local donor co-ordination and harmonisation effects. Visit www.sadsem.net to read about the Southern African Security and Defence Management Network (SADSEM), which Denmark is funding.
European Union
2. Roleplayers
Programmes in South include/have included:
Tel: 012 452 5225 www.eusa.org.za The EU is the world’s largest trading bloc and is the world’s biggest aid donor to poor countries, contributing approximately half of global aid.
Germany Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany Protocol, Agricultural and Environmental Affairs Tel: 012 427 8903
[email protected] Read about Inwent at www. inwent.org and the Gesellschaft fur Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ) at www.gtz.de/en
International Finance Corporation (IFC) Read about this member of the World Bank Group at www.ifc.org.
Japan Japan International Cooperation Agency – www.jica.jp/english
Luxembourg Luxembourg Agency for Development and Cooperation www.lux-development.lu
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The Netherlands
The Nordic Countries
Technical Centre for Agricultural The Nordic countries - Norway, and Rural Cooperation (www. Denmark, Sweden, Finland and cta.int) Iceland – contribute 0.5 percent of their Gross Domestic Product to Programmes include SANPAD the development of Africa. They (visit www.sanpad.org.za), the are involved extensively in Africa, NPT (visit www.nuffic.nl) and mainly in Burundi, Rwanda, the the PUM Netherlands Senior Democratic Republic of Congo and Experts Advisory Programme. Sudan. What Is PUM? PUM is the Dutch acronym for the Netherlands Senior Experts Programme. PUM is a fully independent organisation that assigns senior advisers, most of whom are retired or have taken early retirement, to companies and organisations in the developing world for short periods of time. Here they assist these companies and organisations with their knowledge and experience, whether it is of a technical nature, or assistance with management, financial management, company organisation, human resource management, marketing or whatever. PUM’s programme also organises training courses and seminars in the countries in which we operate as well as training courses in the Netherlands (the latter can only follow on a mission to a client). Entrepreneurs are also assisted in getting in touch with fellow businesses in the Netherlands by means of the Business Link Programme. Clients who are interested can get further information from the local representative or from the PUM website (www.pum.nl). Contact Meyer du Toit at 082 801 2188 /
[email protected] or Lesley Africa at 021 951 6852/
[email protected].
Sweden Embassy of Sweden Tel: 012 426 6400 www.swedenabroad.com Sweden International Development Agency (SIDA) Tel: 012 426 6400 www.sida.se One of the key objectives of Swedish government’s development cooperation strategy with South Africa is the development of economic co-operation between the two countries.
Switzerland Read about the Swiss Agency for Development and Co-operation (SDC) at www.sdc.admin.ch
Finmark Trust Tel: 011 315 9197 www.finmark.org.za
United States of America
USAID (US Agency for International Development) “Making Financial Markets Work Tel: 012 452 2000 for the Poor” www.usaid.gov Read about NR International at ECIAfrica www.nrinternational.co.uk and Tel: 011 802 0015 Farm Africa at www.farmafrica. www.eciafrica.com org.uk Embassy – USA Tel: 012 452 2247 United Nations
Development Programme – UNDP Tel: 012 354 8025 www.undp.org.za
Promoting Agribusiness Linkages Tel: 011 802 0015
Find details of all the UN agencies US Trade and Development at work in South Africa at www. Agency Tel: 011 778 4849 un.org.za www.tda.gov The Least Developed Countries States Agency for Report 2009 by the United United Nations Conference on Trade International Development – US and Development, argues that Government agency supporting the world’s 49 least developed and funding sustainable and countries are likely to feel the participatory development in South impact of the global economic Africa www.usaid.gov . The Famine crisis most severely, necessitating Early Warning Systems Network a rethink of the development (www.fuws.net) is one of many paradigm. Find the report at www. programmes supported by USAid. unctad.org
United Kingdom Department for International Development (DFID) Tel: 012 431 2100 www.dfid.gov.uk In the second half of 2009, the DFID and the European Commission allocated about R1.3 billion for the Economic Support and Employment Creation Programme in South Africa.
For a full list of embassy contacts, visit www.dfa.gov.za/foreign/forrep/index. htm Find also the South African Representation Abroad menu option on the DFA website.
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Marketing and finance Exporting 1. Overview • The diversification of South Africa’s agricultural exports base is a key priority. • Our top markets at present are the UK, the Netherlands, Germany, Mozambique and the USA. • South Africa must develop its export markets in the East (India, China) and the Middle East. This market is largely untapped. Our regional markets should also be developed. • Product diversity is a priority. Diets in major cities should be researched and gaps in the food market sought. • South Africa’s biggest agricultural exports are wine; citrus fruit; grapes; apples, pears and quinces; and sugar. • The largest import spend was on rice, wheat, soy oil, palm oil and ethyl alcohol. • “Food/carbon” miles is the distance traveled from farm gate to consumer. A direct correlation is assumed between distance traveled and carbon emissions. This issue has the potential to have an impact on exports. Farmers in the 21st Century are greatly influenced by international commodity markets, the exchange rates, and the flow of produce between countries. The domestic price of commodities in most countries is very close to import parity (the landed price of an imported product) as farmers compete with each other for markets. As long as the global economic system creates countries that are better able to produce products more efficiently (and cheaper) than others, the world trade system will continue unabated. South Africa has set itself the target of halving poverty and unemployment by 2014, one year before the date set by the United Nation’s Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). A growth in exports will be crucial to our achieving this and to our having an economic growth of 6% and more. Source: The article “SA needs to grow exports” in Farmer’s Weekly 26 June 2009 page 23. An article by Lizanne Case, FNB Business Analyst (adapted).
Services rendered free of charge by foreign representatives of the DTI: • • • • • • • • • •
identification of suitable agents, importers and distributors; assisting trade missions to and from South Africa; spotting overseas business opportunities; entry strategies into foreign markets and related research; promotion of technology transfers and foreign investment in manufacturing in South Africa; assistance to exporters in overcoming obstacles such as quotas, customs tariffs and import restrictions; assistance to exporters in setting up appointments, translations, seminars, etc; general assistance in obtaining tender documents and negotiating with authorities such as customs and health; distribution of South African trade publications and newsletters to foreign business communities; inspection of South African products on arrival overseas.
Trade and Investment South Africa Mr Christiaan Saaiman Tel: 012 394 1021
[email protected] International Trade Division: World Trade Organisation (WTO) Tel: 012 394 3070
[email protected]
Free Trade Agreements – SADC Tel: 012 394 3590 Fax: 012 320 7905
Asia East Region Tel: 012 394 1117 Fax: 012 394 2117
International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) Import and export control Phillip Snyman Free Trade Agreements – Americas/ Tel: 012 394 3590 Tel: 0861 843 384 MERCUSOR www.itac.org.za Tel: 012 394 3052
[email protected] Rebate Applications on imports for value addition and re-exports Free Trade Agreements – Europe Tel: 012 428 7745 Tel: 012 394 3015 Fax: 012 428 7717
[email protected] Through its division, Trade and Investment South Africa (TISA), the DTI provides financial assistance to registered exporters which meet certain performance criteria. Promoted under the banner of EMIA, the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance Scheme, partial compensation is available to exporters in respect of costs incurred, development export markets.
2. The Department of Trade and Industry (dti)
More about the Export Promotion Directorate at the Department of Trade and Industry (dti)
Department of Trade & Industry (DTI) Tel: 012 394 1021 www.dti.gov.za
Mr Christiaan Saaiman Director: Export Promotion Tel: 012 394 1021
Find the “Exporting” menu option on the website.
The Department of Trade & Industry (DTI) will assist registered exporters in the marketing and promotion of their products. Some of the services include overseas assessment, identification of business opportunities, developing entry strategies into foreign markets, assistance with trade fairs and exhibitions, identification of suitable agents and distribution abroad, assisting with trade missions and inspection of goods on arrival overseas.
The Export Promotion Clusters sub-directorates are made up of the following priority sectors: agro-processing, chemicals and metals. Agro-processing priority sub-sectors • • • •
fresh cut flowers fruit and vegetables organic foods beverages (wines, juices, indigenous teas)
• meat (venison, halaal) • canned fruit and vegetables • downstream sugar beneficiation • fine foods
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The Export Promotion Directorate is responsible for developing and promoting South African goods and services including specific technical interventions in terms of EMIA financial support, matchmaking, market intelligence, trade lead facilitation and in-market support. This business unit aims to increase the market penetration of South African companies in order to export products and services into various markets. The assistance provided is in the form of financial or non-financial assistance. The aim of the Export Promotion Clusters sub-directorates; are to lead and facilitate access to sustainable economic activity and employment for all South Africans through higher levels of employment, and increased access for South African products and services in international markets; and to create a fair, competitive and efficient marketplace for domestic and foreign business as well as for consumers. Export Promotion Offerings • Market intelligence and advice e.g. identify new product and new market • Trade lead facilitation • Facilitating exports by matching potential exporters with foreign buyers • In Market Support • EMIA Financial Assistance
3. Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) For various notes on exports, look under the “Services” option on www.daff. gov.za. For notes on the different directorates, click on “Divisions”.
Directorate: International Trade Tel: 012 319 8451/2
[email protected]
Directorate: Veterinary Services Tel: 012 319 7456
[email protected]
Quotas for exports are determined Controls and certifies the health here. status of animals/animal products for import/export, including the Directorate: Marketing provision of quarantine facilities. Tel: 012 319 8455 Negotiates protocols on the import
[email protected] and export of animals/animal products. Permits for imports in terms of Regional Bilateral Agreements, Directorate: Plant Health Tariff Quotas in terms of Free Trade Tel: 012 319 6505/29 Agreements as well as minimum
[email protected] market Access in terms of WTO Ensures compliance with With regard to certain export international plant health permits under the South obligations and responsibilities, Africa/ European Union Trade thereby creating an environment Development and Cooperation for safe imports and exports. Agreement. Directorate: Food Safety and Directorate: Agricultural Quality Assurance Product Inspection Services Tel: 012 319 7306 Tel: 012 319 6100
[email protected] [email protected] Phytosanitary certificates are issued here. The Agricultural Trade Forum (ATF), established by the National Department of Agriculture, facilitates the entire agricultural industry with regard to international trade. It is housed under the Chief Directorate: Trade and Business Development. Call 012 319 6910 or email
[email protected]. Look for the government gazette notices under the publications option at www.daff.gov.za
4. Other Government Departments South African Revenue Servce (SARS) Tel: 0800 00 7277 www.sars.gov.za Find the “Customs and Excise” menu option, which also gives trade data. Contact details of head office, Revenue Branch Offices (provincial), Customs Offices and more are on the website.
5. Export councils Export councils (in partnership with the DTI) have been given a forum to address all obstacles and proposals that may affect their ability to export successfully. This takes the form of a National Export Advisory Council, chaired by the Minister. The export councils database may be found on www.thedti.gov.za. Some of them are listed below. Name
Contact details
Fresh Produce Exporters Forum/ Fruit South Africa
Tel: 021 526 0474
Farmed Abalone Export Council
Tel: 021 701 1820
South African Flower Export Council (SAFEC)
Tel: 011 692 4237
SA Footwear & Leather Export Council
Tel: 031 701 4206
Wines of South Africa (WOSA)
Tel: 021 883 3860
South African Wire Business Council (SAWA)
Tel: 011 453 0921
South African Textile Industry Export Council (SATIEC)
Tel: 021 702 4140
South African Ostrich Business Chamber
Tel: 044 272 3336
South African Equine Trade Council
Tel: 031 314 1926
Meat Exporters of South Africa
Tel: 011 601 8600
Milk Producers Organisation
Tel: 012 843 5600
SA Fruit & Vegetable Canners Association (SAFVCA)
Tel: 021 871 1308
SA Fruit and Vegetable Exporters’ Council
Tel: 021 871 1308
6. Other roleplayers www.sa-exporter.com an important trade portal
Antswisa Miyelani Mkhabela – 079 230 4999 www.antswisa.co.za SMME export programmes Aramex (SA) (Pty) Limited Tel: 011 961 4800 Aviocean Tel: 011 974 2278
German Chamber of Commerce – www.germanchamber.co.za; Southern Africa-Switzerland – www.saswiss.co.za; South AfricanNetherlands – www.sanec.co.za etc. Christopher Richards Consultancy Tel: 011 442 6071/2 http://dunkeld.co.za
Some chambers are geared “Professional advice is available to towards trade between two facilitate the conduct of efficient countries e.g. the French South international trade” African Chamber – www.fsacci. co.za; the Southern African
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Clear Freight Tel: 011 856 6600 Clover Cargo International Tel: 011 974 1976 Customs Services (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 397 5370 Deugro (SA) (Pty) Limited Tel: 011 392 7370 DFM Software Solutions Tel: 021 904 1154 www.dfmsoftware.co.za For software that allows the user to create chemical and fertiliser instructions required for GlobalGAP, Nature’s Choice and the export market.
conditions for employees and empower communities through ethical and sustainable trade”. Forward Air & Sea Tel: 011 392 5364 Hellmann Logistics Tel: 011 928 7000 Import/Export Trade Finance Experts Tel: 011 809 7500 IMPOSON Shipping Tel: 021 421 6110
Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa Ltd (IDC) Tel: 011 269 3000
[email protected] The Exporters Club of South www.idc.co.za Africa (ECSA) www.exportersclub.co.za International Trade Administration Commission ECSA has chapters in Johannesburg, (ITAC) Durban, Port Elizabeth and Cape Tel: 0861 843 384 Town. www.itac.org.za Fairtrade South Africa Tel: 021 448 8911 www.fairtrade.org.za
Invest North West Tel: 014 594 2570 www.inw.org.za
The fair trade movement aims “to Amongst its many services, INW enhance trading conditions for small assists in the development of scale businesses, improve labour trade in the “second economy” by
enhancing its capacity to export to Provincial investment agencies like various markets. MEGA handle export and import enqiries, assist with government JSE Limited export incentives etc. Tel: 011 520 7000
[email protected] National Agricultural Marketing www.jse.co.za Council (NAMC) Tel: 012 341 1115 If you are an exporter, foreign Fax: 012 341 1811/9 exchange is one of your top risks. A www.namc.co.za rand futures market exists allowing agribusinesses and farmers to National Council of SPCAs hedge themselves against negative Tel: 011 907 3590 movements in the exchange rate, www.nspca.org.za reducing risks and uncertainty. The Farm Animal Unit monitors Kintetsu World Express the export of live animals from East Tel: 011 573 5700 London and Durban harbours. KwaZulu-Natal Department of Perishable Products Export Economic Development Control Board (PPECB) Tel: 031 310 5300 Tel: 021 930 1134
[email protected] [email protected] www.kznded.gov.za www.ppecb.com The department has intensified PPECB provides internationally the training of and support for preferred food, safety, quality and entrepreneurs in agri-business assurance services to promote and export. instil confidence in the agricultural products of South Africa. MSC Logistics Tel: 011 627 6542 PPECB, mandated by the of Agriculture, Mpumalanga Economic Growth Department has been delivering end-point Agency (MEGA) inspection services on perishable Tel: 013 752 2440 products destined for export since www.mega.gov.za 1991.
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Assessors are stationed across the country and delivers inspection services on 200 product types at more that 1500 locations.
Fortunately for exporters there are expert forwarders and clearing agents to call upon. The role of the ‘freight forwarder’, alternatively called the ‘shipping and forwarding’ Planner Bee Plant Care or ‘clearing and forwarding’ agent, is Tel/fax: 011 888 4215 to ensure that cargo is transported www.fertilis.co.za across international boundaries in the most efficient and economical FERTILIS (registration no B3664 way. Act36/1947) is certified by the Organic Food Federation There are many related ancillary UK: organic certification no: services that agents undertake 00371/01/00. to ensure this objective, such as documentation, customs Premier Freight clearance, booking of cargo space, Tel: 011 573 9000 packing, etc. The transport of goods internationally involves Reserve Bank shipping lines, airlines, groupage Tel: 012 313 3911 operators, container terminal and www.reservebank.co.za depot operators, port authorities, road and rail contracts and customs Responsible Container brokers. Management Association of Southern Africa – RCMASA The freight forwarder co-ordinates Tel: 032 942 8256 the activities of these organisations Fax: 032 942 8328 and includes accurate preparation www.rcmasa.org.za and distribution of documents. SAITEX The agent should be able to advise Tel: 011 783 7250 the exporter on the following www.exhibitionsafrica.com aspects: “Africa’s premier trade exhibition” • the best mode of transport for the goods, whether by sea, air, Safcor Panalpina rail, road or a combination of (Sea) Tel: 011 570 6000 these; (Air) Tel: 011 922 9600 • schedule and transit times of www.safcorpanalpina.co.za the various transport services; • The most suitable packing; Sasfin Bank Limited Tel: 011 809 7500 • rates and insurance premiums; • freight rates; Schenker Stinnes Logistics • costing for export; Tel: 011 971 8502 • compliance with maritime and other statutory obligations; South African Association of • marking of cargo; and Freight Forwarders (SAAFF) • all technical aspects of Tel: 011 455 1726 international forwarding. www.saaff.org.za
Agents also handle customs clearance, including related documentation needs and exchange control requirements, and any other permits required by law. Most agents have an international network of branch offices or associates, which enables them to give advice on the importing country’s regulations.
food requirements, represents the greatest potential market for South African Halaal Certified products. Another market is European countries with large Muslim communities (e.g. UK, France and Germany). Membership of SAHEF is open to all certified Halaal manufacturers, export agents, freight companies and others.
South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) www.sabs.co.za
South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) Tel: 011 339 2021 www.saiia.org.za
Tel: 012 428 6896
[email protected]
A non-governmental research institute providing “African Food Safety Certification perspectives” and “Global programmes: GlobalGAP, BRC, HACCP, ISO 22000, Pesticide insights”. validation of Maximum Residue Levels for the SA Pesticide Initiative Starke Ayres Tel: 0860 782 753 Programme (PIP) www.starkeayres.co.za Tel: 012 428 6648 Trade Law Centre for Southern
[email protected] Africa (TRALAC) Pesticide residue testing for quality Tel: 021 880 2010 control and R&D purposes www.tralac.org Tel: 012 428 6844
[email protected]
“Building capacity to help Africa trade better”
Constituent or nutrient analysis of UTI food and water Tel: 011 723 1600 South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) Tel: 011 446 3800 www.sacci.org.za South African Halaal Export Forum (SAHEF) Ismail Rawat – 082 793 4494
WESGRO Tel: 021 487 8633 www.wesgro.co.za Workshops are run in the use of incoterms and participating in the international environment.
ZA Trans Logistics The Middle East and in particular Tel: 011 571 3000 the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, which import 80% of their
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7. Training and research Agri Skills Transfer Network Prof Hentie Boshof Tel: 018 290 6019
SA AgriAcademy Tel: 021 880 1276 www.agriacademy.co.za
There is a course which focuses on export readiness: business/export market viability, logistics, supply chain management etc.
Find the Export menu option on SA AgriAcademy agricultural Export Market Access programmes.
Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) Tel: 011 784 8000 www.busa.org.za
Market Info the website. specialises in Readiness and Development
Skills Development Specialists Tel: 0861 113 987 www.sdstraining.co.za
Facilitate training workshops for SMMEs interested in exporting. The South African Board of Standards (SABS) offers training The chamber movements – see courses in GlobalGAP. Visit www. notes below sabs.co.za or call 012 428 6545. The dti – see notes in the next Standard Bank Tel: 0800 FOREX column.
[email protected] Freight Training (Pty) Ltd Hedging against foreign currency Tel: 011 450 4140 www.freighttraining.co.za (Can you afford volatility in exchange rates?) Find out how Training includes the mechanism of to start trading currency futures. credit – who does what and why. Trade Information Promotion Fresh Produce Exporters’ Services Forum Fax: 086 621 7089 Tel: 021 526 0474 www.tips.co.za/training Fax: 021 526 0479 www.fpef.co.za Tips South Africa offers the following export training courses: Training covers the entire trade chain of the fresh fruit export • Freight management course industry and is focused on PDIs in • Exporting into Africa the industry and emerging farmers. • Coming to terms with INCO 2000 Institute of Export • International sales contract (Graduate School of Management) • Bills of entry for exports Tel: 011 628 2000 • The VAT act and exports
[email protected] www.iex.co.za TMS Training Services International trade training Tel: 011 853 2777
[email protected] programme www.hochfeld.co.za International Trade Institute of A three-day course is offered South Africa (ITRISA) covering all you need to know Tel: 011 807 5317 about chartering ships for your
[email protected] business – methods undertaken, www.itrisa.co.za costs and issues involved, case studies etc Short courses and distance education The chamber movement addresses all issues affecting the business community, including exporting. Find out how your nearest Chamber of Commerce can help you. • Cape Town Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry – www. capetownchamber.com • Randburg Chamber of Commerce – www.rcci.co.za • Benoni Chamber of Commerce – www.benonicci.org.za • Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce – www.jcci.co.za • South Coast Chamber of Commerce – www.scchamber.co.za • Bloemfontein Chamber of Commerce – www.bcci.co.za • Zululand Chamber of Commerce – www.zululandchamber.co.za • Estcourt Chamber of Commerce – www.ecci.co.za • Pietermaritzburg Chamber of Business – www.pcb.org.za • (Etc)
For those exporters looking for better access to the ever-growing European Union (EU) market – now 25 countries strong and SA’s major trading partner – the Department of Trade and Industry (dti) has run a national series of workshops on the issue. The dti also runs a Small Exporters Development programme. Contact Phina Mashilo at 012 394 1060 or pmashilo@thedti. gov.za, or Solomon Magagula at 012 394 1343 or
[email protected] Exporting in a nutshell • • • • • • •
understanding and preparing for exports researching and segmenting export markets compiling an export plan implementing the export plan export transportation and logistics export documentation and payments export management
Find all you need to know on www.exporthelp.co.za, the other websites and in the publications mentioned under headings 9 and 10.
8. Export insurance and finance Coface South Africa Tel: 011 208 2500 www.cofaceza.com Credit Guarantee Tel: 011 889 7000 www.creditguarantee.co.za The Export Credit Insurance Corporation of South Africa Limited (ECIC) Department of Trade and Industry Call Centre: 0861 843 384 www.ecic.co.za Lombard Insurance Group Tel: 0860 110 313 www.lombardins.com Pooley Thorne & Associates (Pty) Limited Tel: 011 849 9828 www.pooleythorne.co.za
Prestige Credit Insurance Consultants Tel: 011 805 8958 www.prestigecredit.co.za Credit insurance for protection on your dealings with exports debtors. Short-Term Export Finance Guarantee Scheme Credit Guarantee Tel: 011 889 7000 The purpose of the scheme is to finance small to medium-sized businesses which lack the financial resources to execute export orders. The scheme enables the prospective exporter to obtain finance from a number of participating banks. These loans are then underwritten by Credit Guarantee and re-insured by the Department of Trade & Industry.
9. Publications • The PPECB Export Directory – call 021 930 1134 or visit www.ppecb. com. • Fresh Fruit Export Directory – call 021 526 0474 or visit www.fpef.co.za • Business consultant Chris Richards has authored training manuals on importing and exporting. Contact him at 011 442 6071 or write to
[email protected] • Export South Africa is published monthly and aimed at all exporters and export service providers. Call 011 726 3081 ext 246 or 082 890 5255; or write to
[email protected]. • Farmer’s Weekly – Find the Trade Watch and Export Leads regular feature. • Food & Beverage has a weekly email updating you on developments in South Africa, the region and internationally. Write to foodprod@global. co.za or call 011 880 3682 or visit www.developtechnology.com • The Exporter’s Manual Alan Cowell and Pat Corbin. Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce. 1998. Tel: 011 726 5300. Email: info@jcci. co.za or visit www.jcci.co.za • TRADERS, the “African Business Journal”. Visit www.tradersafrica.com or phone 011 452 9847. • Global Enabling trade Report 2009 is a report by the World Economic Forum in which institutions, policies and services which enable trade in national economies around the world are measured and analysed. This can be downloaded at www.weforum.org
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10. Websites Tools • www.exporthelp.co.za – “Your online export helpdesk” • www.daff.gov.za – menu option “Government gazette”. Import/Export forms are available here. • www.cargoinfo.co.za – Cargo Info Africa, “Southern Africa’s freight information port” • www.xe.com – the “world’s favourite currency site”
Research and statistics • A monthly news update on agricultural trade issues – subscribe at http://agritrade.cta.int • www.trademap.org – “trade statistics for international business development” • Find the trade briefs, working papers etc at www.tralac.org (Trade Law Centre for Southern Africa). Download the latest weekly customs, excise, tariff and trade remedy summary notification. • Find the INTERNATIONAL Trade Probe, a joint initiative between the NAMC and DAFF’s Directorate International Trade, at www.namc. co.za. • Joint Agribusiness Department of Agriculture Forum for Africa www. jadafa.co.za Find options like “Trade within Africa”, “Country profile” and “Trade beyond Africa”. • Find the “Trade intelligence” option at www.agbiz.co.za • www.p-maps.org – 72 Market Analysis Portals directly accessible from the International Trade Centre. Access to all Product Map content is available on a subscription basis. • www.mbendi.co.za – the global information resource for business and travel. • www.thefoodworld.com – this website lists companies worldwide who supply food. • www.africatrade.co.za – an “Africa Trade Initiative” • www.daff.gov.za – the Quarterly Economic Overview includes notes on the world and Sub-Saharan economies. Also find the many relevant publications under “Research papers”. • www.fas.usda.gov – Foreign Agricultural Service (the United States Department of Agriculture)
Treaties and trade agreements • www.macmap.org – Market Access Map, “making import tariffs and market access barriers transparent” • www.sacci.org.za – The increasing number of trade agreements and trade blocs around the World present business with as many problems as opportunities. In an effort to assist business people, SACCI has compiled a list of Trade Agreements and Trade Blocs with an overview and link to the official websites. • Booklets and guides are available from the South African Revenue Service (SARS) e.g. Agreements, Trade Agreements and Preferential Dispensations administered by the South African Revenue Services. • The Fairtrade Foundation gives consumers the opportunity to buy products that guarantee a better deal to producers. This is a huge
benefit to smaller organisations. Fairtrade is one of the fastest growing markets in the UK. The international body is called Fairtrade Labeling Organisation. Find out more at www.fairtrade.org.uk , www.fairtrade. net and www.fairtrade.org.za
General export assistance • International Trade Centre – www.intracen.org – the “development partner for export success” • www.cbi.nl – Centre for the Promotion of Imports from Developing Countries (CBI) provides market information, export promotion, matching, advice on import enquiries, and environmental information for exporters from developing countries. General trade reference • International Trade Centre – www.intracen.org • World Trade Organisation (WTO) – www.wto.org • www.wcoomd.org – World Customs Organisation • United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) – www.unctad.org • International Air Transport Association (IATA) – www.iata.org. IATA sets cargo rates which are published in a directory called “The Air Cargo Tariff” (TACT). • www.tradeworld.net – TradeWorld provide leads and tenders to South African companies • www.tradeinvestafrica.com – “Ultimate guide to business, trade and investment in Africa” See also the websites of roleplayers e.g. www.thedti.gov.za (take the “exporting” option). There are specific phytosanitary requirements for imports and exports of plants, plant products and other regulated articles. These requirements are set due to the fact that South Africa is part of the global village and an active trader in the global agricultural import-export market. In the international exchange of plants and plant products, there is a risk that pests and disease might be introduced into the territory of the importing country. South Africa is a signatory member of the WTO-SPS (Agreement on the Application of Sanitary & Phytosanitary Measures). Therefore the WTOSPS gives member specific rights & obligations. • Find a presentation by Marianna Theyse (DAFF) under the “Trade Intelligence” option at www.agbiz.co.za • www.wto.org – World Trade Organisation rules on sanitary and phytosanitary measures can be found here • www.ippc.int – International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) website. This is an international treaty “to secure action to prevent the spread and introduction of pests of plants and plant products, and to promote appropriate measures for their control”. • Inter-African Phytosanitary Council – www.au-appo.org
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11. Trade terms (Incoterms) • Incoterms are standard trade definitions most commonly used in international sales contracts. Devised and published by the International Chamber of Commerce, they are at the heart of world trade. • The Incoterms you are most likely to use: Ex Works
EXW
Free on Board
FOB
Cost Insurance and Freight
CIF
Carriage Paid to
CPT
Delivered Duty Unpaid
DDU
Marketing and finance Fibre trading Although there are some notes here on mohair and wool, the reader is asked to consult the various fibre chapters i.e. Sheep – Wool, Goats – Mohair, Speciality Fibre Production, Cotton, and Other Fibre Crops.
1. The case for natural fibres Visit the website of the International Chamber of Commerce and the World Business Organisation for more information – www.iccwbo.org
12. Export tips What to avoid in the export industry: • Advance fee scams: a fraudulent importer claims to be interested in buying your product. You will then be requested to send your brochures, a quotaton and some samples. Later you will receive an e-mail confirming that your product has been approved for purchasing, but in order for the deal to go ahead, you are requested to send money for registering your business with the trade authority in that country. • Sample scams: with this type of scam, you are given the hope of a good business deal. The fraud lures you to send a substantial number of sample products for approval. Once the samples are sent, you never hear from them again. This practice targets exporters with products of high resale value. • Uncollectable payment scams. This is when you are tricked into shipping your goods with the promise that payment will follow. You will normally receive correspondence with letterheads of non-existent banks, or at times forged letterheads from existing banks. You only become aware of this one the shipment has gone. When you are pursuing a new deal, Gamwo suggests that it is vital for you to: - C heck the credentials of the company – in most countries, businesses must register and be licensed before they can operate. You can check w ith the companies’ registry in the relevant country. C heck that the contact details exist and belong to the relevant company. - C onsider shipping your goods only after receiving money in your account, especially for new deals. C heck the authenticity of bank documents. If payment is by Letter of C redit, request confirmation from your bank. - Avoid sending too much of stock as samples. For high-value products, request payment for samples and/or payment of shipping costs. Invest in a proper and detailed brochure as a substitute for samples. - A sk your potential clients as many questions as possible; their registration, licence number, physical address, banker, their affiliation to any trade body or association in their country. A serious buyer usually doesn’t mind answ ering such questions. Source: Advice from Michael Gamwo, Africa Desk Manager for Wesgro (the official trade and investment promotion agency of the Western Cape). Our thanks to the Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum for feedback on the draft chapter
• Plant fibres include seed hairs, such as cotton; stem (or bast) fibres, such as flax and hemp; leaf fibres, such as sisal; and husk fibres such as coconut. See the Cotton and Other Fibre Crops chapters. • Animal fibres include wool, hair and secretions, such as silk. See the Sheep – wool, Goats – Mohair and Speciality Fibre Production livestock chapters. Each year, farmers harvest around 35 million tonnes of natural fibres from a wide range of plants and animals – from sheep, rabbits, goats, camels and alpacas, from cotton bolls, abaca and sisal leaves and coconut husks, and from the stalks of jute, hemp, flax and ramie plants. Over the past half century, these have been displaced by man-made fibres with names like acrylic, nylon, polyester and polypropylene. Unlike natural fibres harvested by farmers, commonly used synthetic fibres are mass produced from petrochemicals to uniform strengths, lengths and colours, easily customized to specific applications. Across the world, producers and processors of natural fibres need to develop and maintain markets in which they can compete effectively with synthetics. International Year of Natural Fibres (2009) was aimed at raising global awareness of the importance of natural fibres not only to producers and industry, but also to consumers and the environment.
A marketing angle on natural fibres • Natural fibres are a healthy choice. They provide natural ventilation. A cotton T-shirt feels comfortable on a hot day. Wool garments act as insulators against both cold and heat. • Natural fibres are a responsible choice. They are of major economic importance to many developing countries and vital to the livelihoods and food security of millions of small-scale farmers and processors. • Natural fibres are a sustainable choice. The emerging “green” economy is based on energy efficiency, renewable feed stocks in polymer products, industrial processes that reduce carbon emissions and recyclable materials. Natural fibres are a renewable resource. • Natural fibres are a high-tech choice. They have good mechanical strength, low weight and low cost. That has made them particularly attractive to the automobile industry (increasingly coconut fibre, sisal, hemp wastes etc. are being used). • Natural fibres are a fashionable choice. Natural fibres are at the heart of an eco-fashion or “sustainable clothing” movement that seeks to create garments that are sustainable at every stage of their life cycle, from production to disposal. Natural fibre producers, textile manufacturers and the clothing industry need to be aware of, and respond to, the opportunities provided by growing demand for organic cotton and wool, for recyclable and biodegradable fabrics, and for “fair trade” practices that offer producers higher prices and protect textile industry workers. Source: adapted from www.naturalfibres2009.org and www.new-ag.info
2. Wool and mohair The Eastern Cape is a leading world producer of high-quality merino wool and mohair luxury fibres. A significant proportion of the province’s wool and mohair is exported unprocessed or semi-processed and the sector has very good expansion potential.
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More than 150 years in wool and mohair has given the province valuable expertise in the relevant farming, technology, training, production and marketing. New investment will allow increased value-add to the province’s excellent raw materials through the production of high-value wool and mohair products for worldwide niche markets.
Mohair • The Eastern Cape Province is the premier mohair producing area in South Africa and the undisputed leader in mohair production in the world. • The open cry auction system is the main trading platform with an average of 96% of the total volume of mohair. Other trading options between mohair producers and buyers are farm gate sales, contracts and forward selling, electronic auctions and tenders. • A group of mohair producers marketing their mohair outside the spot marketing system as “Camdeboo” mohair and selling it directly to processors through systems of contracts and agreements has been a recent innovation. • Growers have a number of options how to sell their production and are able to hold the sale until prices improve.
Wool • Wool is sold in a free market environment and producers are free to sell their wool to whomever they wish. The bulk of South Africa’s wool clip is sold via public auction. • These auctions are held in Port Elizabeth on virtually every Wednesday during the wool-selling season, which stretches from late August to mid-June the following year. The auctions take place under the auspices of the South African Wool and Mohair Buyers’ Association (Sawamba) and only members of Sawamba are permitted to bid at auctions. • Prices paid for wool are determined by free market supply and demand forces and are closely linked to the international price for apparel wool, which is determined in Australia where the largest volumes of apparel wool are traded. • Due to space restrictions, wool is not displayed in the auction room and buyers buy from a catalogue which is provided by the various brokers. Buyers have the opportunity to inspect samples of the various lots in the brokers’ warehouses a few days prior to the auctions. • Wool is typed into many different types and the different prices are paid for the different types, which may differ from auction to auction. The Wool Testing Bureau of SA tests wool for various characteristics, such as fibre diameter (micron), clean yield, length and strength and vegetable matter, after which a certificate is issued. This certificate is displayed with the sample so that a buyer knows exactly what type of wool he is buying. • After sale, the wool is either exported in its raw form by the buyer or semi-processed before being exported. The top export destinations for SA wool are China, Italy, Germany, the Czech Republic and India. For further information on wool contact Cape Wools SA, which is the official body keeping statistics for the entire wool industry.
3. Roleplayers Find detailed lists in the different fibre chapters e.g. Cotton, Sheep - Wool etc.
BKB Limited Tel: 041 503 3111 www.bkb.co.za
Mohair South Africa Tel: 041 487 1386 www.mohair.co.za
Camdeboo Tel: 041 484 5255 www.camdeboo.com
National Wool Growers Association (NWGA) Tel: 041 365 5030 Tel: 041 484 1536 www.nwga.co.za
Cape Mohair & Wool (CMW) Tel: 041 486 1143 www.cmw.co.za Cape Wools SA Tel: 041 484 4301 www.capewools.co.za Cotton SA Tel: 012 804 1462 - 7 www.cottonsa.org.za GWK Ltd Tel: 053 298 8200 www.gwk.co.za
OVK Ltd Tel: 051 923 4500 www.ovk.co.za South African Textile Industry Export Council (SATIEC) Tel: 021 702 4140 www.satiec.co.za Wool Testing Bureau of South Africa Tel: 041 503 6600 www.wtbsa.co.za
4. Websites and publications • Investigating alternative governance systems for the South African mohair supply chain by D Jordaan and J Kirsten, University of Pretoria. Contact:
[email protected] and
[email protected] • Find the excellent Agricultural Marketing Extension on the Department of Agriculture’s website – www.daff.gov.za (take the Publications and then General Publications menu options). The eighth of the series is entitled “Wool and Mohair”. Its aim is to facilitate a better understanding of wool and mohair marketing in South Africa, primarily to enable extension officers to help emerging farmers play a greater role in the industries. • Market reports and information can be found online and in the agricultural weekly publications. Visit www.capewools.co.za and www. mohair.co.za, or open your copy of Landbouweekblad and/or Farmer’s Weekly. The websites of the two publications also contain archived articles: take a look at www.landbou.com and www.farmersweekly. co.za. Sources: www.up.ac.za/dspace/bitstream/2263/6309/1/Jordaan_ Investigating(2008).pdf the study done by D Jordaan and J Kirsten, referred to under heading 4; Ona Viljoen of Cape Wools SA.
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Marketing and finance Fresh Produce Markets 1. Overview Markets selling agricultural products have been with humankind for many thousands of years. They have adapted and changed over time but the fundamental reason for their existence has never changed – where supply and demand meet to establish a value for a product so that a sale can be made. There are different types of agricultural markets; such as farmers’ markets where the farmer is on hand to sell his products, or wholesale markets where a wholesaler has purchased the products from the farmers and sells those products for a profit, or a commission markets where market agents sells the products on behalf of the farmers. There are 24 fresh produce markets in South Africa. Twenty-two are commission markets and two are wholesale. Nineteen of the twenty-two are linked to the Freshmark System (see www.freshmark.co.za) In South Africa we have the added option of Informal Markets which are a feature of our national landscape as they can be found along main roads, outside bus stations, taxi ranks, alongside existing fresh produce markets and in rural towns. Informal Markets in various forms can also be found in many African countries. In this country they are essentially wholesale markets, as the vendors have purchased their products from farmers or the bigger markets to resell again to the public and tourists. They are classified as Informal Markets because they are not subject to the same formal structures and laws that govern the fresh produce markets.
i) There are 22 Fresh Produce Commission Markets in South Africa and of these, 19 are linked to the Freshmark System which is an IT network providing a comprehensive range of daily, weekly and monthly information on sales as well as national statistics. j) By reacting to the laws of supply and demand on a daily basis, fresh produce commission markets remain the purest form of price establishment available to farmers and buyers. k) The Market Agents’ Fidelity Fund also funds a comprehensive and unique training programme for fresh produce commission market salespeople. This programme requires a new salesperson to successfully complete the three module training programme as well as a number of audits in the workplace within a given time frame before being registered by APAC as a Fresh Produce Commission Salesperson. There is no other training programme like this in the world.
3. National strategy In terms of the Agricultural Produce Agents Act. Act 12 of 1992 (amended 2003) the Minister of Agriculture is required to establish an Agricultural Produce Agents Council (APAC) – a Statutory Body – to administer the Act on behalf of the Minister. The basic reason for having the Act and for the establishment of APAC is because Agricultural Produce Commission Agents act on behalf of their clients – farmers – in a financial capacity and the Act is there to protect the farmers’ interests. The objective of APAC is: “to regulate the occupation of fresh produce, export and livestock agents and to maintain and enhance the status and dignity of those occupations and the integrity of persons practicing these occupations”. As far as Market Agents are concerned this includes: • making policy, promoting market agents and markets; • drawing up The Rules R1818 and Code of Conduct; • administering the Fresh Produce Market Agents Fidelity Fund; • registration of Agricultural Commission Agents; • monitoring Market Agents’ Trust Accounts; • the maintenance and promotion of the training standards of Agents; • ad hoc audits of Agents stock on floor.
2. The uniqueness of our markets South Africa’s fresh produce markets can rightly claim to be unique in the following ways: a) They are the only system of fresh produce commission markets in the world. b) The registered Market Agents working on those markets, who sell on behalf of the farmers are governed by Act 12 of 1992 (amended 2003) which prescribes, amongst other requirements, how they will handle the farmer’s money. c) Act 12 also provides for a Market Agents’ Fidelity Fund to which only they contribute annually and which guarantees farmers’ money under specified circumstances. d) Another proviso of Act 12 is for the establishment of the Agricultural Produce Agents Council (APAC) which administers the Act and the Fidelity Fund on behalf of the Minister of Agriculture. e) In terms of Act 12 there are three groups of agricultural produce commission agents: fresh produce market agents, fresh produce export agents and livestock agents. These agents must register with APAC and comply to certain requirements of Act 12 before they can open for business. f) The Act requires a Market Agency to open a Trust Account on behalf of its farmers thereby ensuring that their money is controlled and regulated. g) Market Agents must submit a Trust Account Reconciliation to APAC every month. h) Market Agents must by law pay their farmers within 5 working days after completing the sale of a consignment.
The Minister appoints a Council of 18 members and each one serves for a maximum period of three years. Membership is made up of the following roleplayers: • • • • • • • • •
two persons representing agricultural producers of fresh produce two persons representing livestock producer three persons representing fresh produce market agents three persons representing livestock agents three persons representing fresh produce export agents two persons designated by the Minister two persons representing consumers one person representing DAFF Registrar and Deputy Registrar
The Council meets at various times through the year according to its needs and oversees the implementation of Act 12 on behalf of the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. A Registrar, Deputy Registrar and Secretary make up the full-time staff complement and they are charged with managing the day to day activities of APAC and the application of the Act. APAC makes use of outside service providers for functions such as forensic audits, training of Market Agents and other activities as required.
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Fidelity Fund • Many years ago the Department of Agriculture established a Fidelity Fund at the request of Fresh Produce Market Commission Agents to protect their name in the event of members going bankrupt and there not being sufficient funds in the Trust Account to pay the farmers, or if somebody was found guilty of any fraudulent actions with farmers’ money. • In such cases a farmer who has sold his fresh produce through a registered commission agent may claim for his losses from the Fidelity Fund. • Market Commission Agents pay an amount each year based on their annual turnover into the Fidelity Fund. • It is part of APAC’s function to administer and control this Fidelity Fund in terms of Act 12. • The Fidelity Fund guarantees a farmer’s money. • This system of financial security for South African farmers is unique in the world.
Trust Account In terms of the Act a Market Agency must open a Trust Account at a registered banking institution on behalf of their farmers. This Trust Account has only two purposes: • to deposit the proceeds from the sales of farmers’ products; • to pay the farmers. It must be a separate bank account from the Market Agency’s normal business account. Every Market Agency must submit a Trust Account reconciliation to APAC monthly before the 21st. The Trust Account therefore, controls the farmer’s money.
When does a farmer get paid? • Rule 25 of Act 12 stipulates that if a consignment of fresh produce is not fully sold within three business days after the receipt thereof, the fresh produce agent must inform the producer of the extent and condition of the unsold quantity. • Rule 26 of Act 12 stipulates that a fresh produce agent shall within 5 business days after having sold the produce pay the farmer as well as issue a statement with detail such as date of receipt of the consignment, kind and class of fresh produce, the amount and nature of each deduction, the amount of commission deducted, etc. Act 12 of 1992 requires market commission agents to register with the Registrar of the Agricultural Produce Agents Council (APAC) – Tel: 012 346 4117 / 011 894 3680 The most important difference that sets our commission markets apart from others (wholesale markets) – locally or abroad – is the security of payment for producers. All registered market agents contribute annually to a Fidelity Fund, which is controlled by the Agricultural Produce Agents Council (APAC) in terms of Act 12 of 1992 (amended in 2003). This fund guarantees that a producer receives payment for his goods in the event of a market agency going bankrupt or is found guilty of any illegal activities involving the producer’s money. This security is vital in a country as large and as diverse as ours. Producers hail from the farthest corners of our land, distances to markets are often great and personal contact between farmer and agent can be limited at times. The knowledge that his money is safe and that legislation requires the agent to pay him within 5 working days ensures that a farmer can market his produce with confidence. This is very important when seen against the background of our so-called, commercial farmers and the many thousands of small-scale emerging farmers. The former are geared for large-scale commercial farming and most have the ‘tools’ for marketing. But an emerging, resource poor farmer has to struggle with many obstacles before landing his produce on the market floor. He generally will not have the marketing skills of his commercial neighbour so protection of his money on the market is absolutely essential.
4. The fresh produce markets Bloemfontein – see Mangaung Buffalo City Tel: 043 705 9500 Fax: 043 745 1992
[email protected] Butterworth Tel/fax: 047 491 4294 Cape Town Market Tel: 021 531 2191/2
[email protected] www.ctmarket.co.za Durban Tel: 031 311 5103 / 40 Fax: 031 465 4222
[email protected] www.durban.gov.za East London – see Buffalo City George Tel: 044 875 1286 Fax: 044 875 1287
[email protected] Johannesburg Tel: 011 992 8000 Fax: 011 613 8375
[email protected] www.joburgmarket.co.za
Nelspruit Fresh Produce Market Tel: 013 753 3645 Fax: 013 753 3867
[email protected] Noord-Einde Fresh Produce Market Tel: 041 451 3216 Fax: 041 451 3239
[email protected] Phillippi Tel: 021 371 2645 Fax: 021 371 2648 Pietermaritzburg Tel: 033 392 3400 Fax: 033 392 3436
[email protected] Polokwane Tel: 015 297 8464 Fax: 015 297 5177 Port Elizabeth – see Nelson Mandela Bay Port Shepstone – see Ugu Sol Plaatje Tel: 053 830 6560 Fax: 053 831 2713
[email protected]
Kei (Mthatha) Tel: 047 531 1907 Fax: 047 531 0512
[email protected]
Springs Tel: 011 815 6010 Fax: 011 815 3175
[email protected]
Kimberley – see Sol Plaatje
Tshwane Tel: 012 358 2398 Fax: 012 358 2301
[email protected] www.tshwane.gov.za/ tshwanemarket
King William’s Town Tel: 043 652 3646 Fax: 043 642 3245
[email protected] Klerksdorp Tel: 018 469 1241 Fax: 018 469 3929
[email protected] http://matlosana.org Mangaung Tel: 051 410 4500 Fax: 051 433 2948
[email protected]
Ugu Tel: 039 685 5186 Fax: 039 685 4395
[email protected] Uitenhage Tel: 041 992 1634 Fax: 041 992 1636
[email protected]
Vereeniging Find information under “City Tel: 016 451 1021 Services & facilities” on www. Fax: 016 451 3832 bloemfontein.co.za
[email protected] Mpumalanga Fresh Produce Market (Nelspruit) Tel: 013 755 2768 Fax: 013 755 1933
[email protected] Nelson Mandela Bay Port Elizabeth Tel: 041 461 1409 Fax: 041 461 1069
[email protected]
Welkom Tel: 057 355 2382 Fax: 057 355 6606
[email protected] Witbank Tel/fax: 013 690 6277
[email protected]
There are 105 registered market agents. To find out which agents operate at which market the reader is advised to contact the market concerned. Alternatively, APAC or IMASA (details also under this heading) will be able to help.
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Fresh produce markets sector organisations Agricultural Produce Agents Council (APAC) Tel: 011 894 3841 Fax: 011 894 3761
[email protected] www.apacweb.org.za
IMASA was founded in 1945 and represents the registered Market Agents in South Africa. Membership is voluntary.
National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) APAC is a Statutory Body Tel: 012 341 1115 established i t o Act 12 of 1992 and Fax: 012 341 1811 administers the Act on behalf of the www.namc.co.za Minister of Agriculture. Members of the Council are appointed by the The NAMC is a Statutory Body Minister and represent role-players established i t o the Marketing Act in the marketing of fresh produce to advise the Minister of Agriculture as well as appropriate Government on matters regarding the marketing departments. In terms of the Act of all agricultural products. any person who wishes to trade as an agricultural produce commission National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications agent must register with APAC. (NRCS) Tel: 012 428 6152 Department of Agriculture, Fax: 012 428 6860 Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Directorate: Agricultural Products
[email protected] www.nrcs.org.za Inspection Services Tel: 012 319 6100 PROKON (Produk Kontrole) Fax: 012 319 6350 Tel: 012 325 4579
[email protected] Fax: 012 325 4585 www.daff.gov.za
[email protected] Institute of Market Masters of Prokon is an independent inspection SA (IMMSA) body which provides product Tel: 011 992 8000 Fax: 011 613 8375 inspections on all the main fresh President: Mr Kgosientso produce markets in South Africa Ramokgopa
[email protected] 5-A-Day For Better Health Trust IMMSA was founded in 1946 and is Tel: 011 613 4391 the representative body for Market Fax: 011 623 1932 Masters and Market Management.
[email protected] www.5-a-day.co.za Membership is voluntary. Institute of Market Agents of 5-a-Day is the industry organisation charged with promoting the health South Africa (IMASA) Tel: 012 326 2485 benefits and consumption of fresh Fax: 012 326 2462 fruit and vegetables in South
[email protected] Africa.
5. Local business environment • The Average price of important vegetables sold on the major fresh produce markets can be found in the latest Abstract of Agricultural Statistics document on the Department of Agriculture website www. daff.gov.za • The Freshmark System provides daily prices for each market. Visit www.technofresh.co.za • A monthly summary of all markets is compiled by Tshwane Market and is available on request.
The importance of price formation on a commission market It is a simple question; “if we did not have fresh produce commission markets how would a farmer know what the value of his/her products is on any given day”? Would he ask his neighbour? Does he ask the local fruit and veg retailer in town? Does he phone one of the big supermarkets and ask them what they are paying today? In each case the reply he gets is understandably influenced by the self interest of the party concerned. The best the farmer can do is to end up guessing. However, when he sells his products through a commission market he gets the closest to a true value for his products because prices on a market are established in an open, competitive environment regulated by the oldest marketing laws in the world – supply and demand and a host of other factors.
The Big Four in Fresh Produce Marketing A farmer needs to understand the essential mechanisms of a market – supply and demand. We can’t change them and we can’t wish them away. They are fundamental marketing laws. There will be oversupply situations and his prices will go down. There will also be undersupply situations and his prices will go up. One needs to understand them and learn to “ride” with them. But, there are two other essentials – quality and continuity of supply. They both have an impact on the two scenarios sketched above and are just as critical. Quality gives the product the means to address virtually all market situations. Quality always gets a premium, no matter how small but really comes into its own when the market is full. Then a quality product is the one that has a chance of getting a price acceptable under those circumstances. The poorer quality products are the ones that receive a very low price or even end up being condemned on an oversupplied market. Continuity goes hand in hand with quality. If a farmer consistently delivers a quality product to a market through thick and thin, then he not only realises a better average but also builds credibility with buyers. When the market is full, the buyer will invariably opt for the brand that he knows and that has been seen regularly. The “come and go” farmer will have to take his chances, hope to get something and then blame everybody else for his woes. Linking these four essentials is the proviso that good communication should exist between market agent and producer. Communication implies that both have a responsibility to ensure that they keep each other informed on all marketing matters. The market agent must ensure that his producer is not only getting his prices but that he is fully informed on market conditions and trends. The farmer, in turn, must keep his market agent fully advised on current and future volumes, quality standards and deliveries. He should also be planning those volumes in conjunction with his agent to ensure that he delivers the right quantities according to market circumstances. Too many producers just deliver – regardless of market conditions – then expect their market agent to work miracles. Getting the Big Four right means a farmer will get his marketing right. In the highly competitive environment of fresh produce marketing it is as well for farmers to remember these words; “Quality is not the objective, it is the minimum standard”!
6. Farmer points of interest Tips to Farmers – from Your Market Agent The following advice to farmers is based on a ‘picture’ that has evolved over many years on how to interact with your market agent and is based on an informal survey undertaken amongst market agents. • Be honest and open about your products and marketing plans. • Be loyal to your market agent and don’t jump from agent to agent, allegedly seeking better prices. Farmers who do this on a regular basis develop a poor reputation amongst market agents and buyers, which reduces their chances for better service and prices. • Give the market agent a fair chance over a reasonable period of time to produce results. • Try to visit the market as frequently as possible to understand the market agent better who is handling your product/s and to learn about the modus operandi of the market. • A farmer should evaluate a market agent on performance and not hearsay or perceptions. • Ensure a consistent supply to the market – through thick and thin. This builds confidence and trust from the market agent as well as the buyers. This will be reflected in your average price at the end of the day – which is more important than a few high prices you might receive along the way. • Keep in constant touch with the market agent in terms of products, varieties, volumes, planned deliveries and other relevant information. • Listen to, and accept constructive criticism on your products from the market agent. • Listen to what the market agent tells you about the state of the market and supply accordingly.
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• Keep the market agent advised of your medium to long-term production plans so that the latter can advise you on the marketing prospects for that crop and also start preparing the groundwork for sales. • Avoid attempts at price manipulation by playing agents off against each other. They see right through it and it is an insult to their intelligence. • Share product information with the market agent – storage requirements, holding temperatures, unique selling points, delivery arrangements, seasonal projections and marketing objectives. • Finally, look upon the market agent as your own marketing and sales manager on that market. • Remember – it’s all about trust!
A Good Market Agent – From the Farmer’s Perspective The relationship between farmer and market agent is a delicate one at the best of times. It is something that has to be constantly and carefully nurtured. The onus for making the relationship work rests equally on both parties, and the foundation of the relationship is trust. Many farmers and market agents can boast of successful relationships and they will tell you that mutual trust has been the cement of that relationship. In the eyes of a farmer, a market agent should: • Be someone who has the ability to sell. • Treat the farmer’s products with respect. • Be able to evaluate a product in money terms – in other words, be able to put a fair value on the product given quality and market conditions at the time.
• Be able to assess the product in terms of appearance, colour, packing and packaging, grade, variety and market conditions. • Be able to assess, or “read”, the market in terms of supply and demand and all the other factors that impact on the final price of the product. • Have the integrity to deal with both farmer and buyer in an open, friendly, honest and businesslike manner. • Support his/her farmer through innovative sales techniques, attractive displays, visual samples, promotion and other sales generating techniques as well as good stock control. • Be up to date on market conditions in general and more specifically on product availability and demand. • Ensure that his/her farmer is kept informed on market prices and conditions on a regular basis – even daily if necessary. • Give his/her farmer an honest assessment of his/her products and not be afraid to offer constructive criticism. • Actively canvass and visit buyers to build a solid client base and promote products on offer. • Have the backing of a reputable market agency that can provide all the support services which add to the final package. These include prompt payments backed by efficient and accurate accounting procedures. • Be the type of person who can remain positive, even through difficult times; has the will to sell and the desire to improve himself/herself all the time. • Because of the unique position of trust that a market agent occupies between farmer and buyer, his/her business dealings should be impeccable at all times. • Finally, a market agent will never become “truly perfect” if he or she is not prepared to get up very early six mornings a week! This chapter is based entirely on materials supplied to the editorial team by Michael Cordes (our grateful thanks to you, sir). Michael Cordes has spent almost 40 years working in agriculture – mostly in the fresh produce sector. For 15 years he farmed subtropical fruit and vegetables before moving on to the marketing of fresh produce both locally and overseas. As a freelance journalist he specialises in the horticultural sector and also spends a lot of his time training farmers and marketing people in South Africa and SADC Region countries in the production, marketing and management of horticultural crops. You can contact him on:
[email protected] or 073 637 6105.
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Marketing and finance Infrastructure and agricultural logistics 1. Overview The demands that the agricultural industry places on the national logistics infrastructure and services are complex, ranging from the mass movement and storage of bulk commodities, to the just-in-time movement of timesensitive freight brought within and outside of our borders. Inefficient transport of agricultural and forestry cargo leads to several problems: • The competitiveness of the agricultural sector is compromised since it needs to transport its products to the markets. In places like Cape Town, it is cheaper to import maize from across the Atlantic than to have it transported from the Free State. • The price of food is also affected by the country’s agro-logistics. Road transport is 25% more expensive than rail, and yet only 30% of our grain is moved by rail. Transporting by rail would translate into reduced food prices. The National Treasury has previously identified that 36% of the bread price is constituted by cost of transport and distribution. • Food costs more in the rural areas. It might be produced there, but it is transported for processing in urban areas and then back to consumers in the rural areas. This problem is compounded by the limitations of our transport. The provision of infrastructure assists in the elimination of rural poverty. Economic activity and the resulting development is vitally linked to existing infrastructure. Sources: The status of Agro-Logistics in South Africa 2006, compiled by the Directorate: Marketing at the Department of Agriculture; Meyer NG, Jooste A, Breitenbach MC, and Fenyés TI The economic rationale for agricultural regeneration and rural infrastructure investment in South Africa;a report by Lindie Botha of the Agricultural Business Chamber; “Cost of Transport: The reason why South African agriculture is becoming less competitive” Farmer’s Weekly 24 April 2009, 30 October 2009, 25 December + 1 January 2010.
2. National strategy and Government contacts • The high level of public and private investment in infrastructure has helped to sustain South Africa’s economy in the midst of global economic recession. • Infrastructure is one of AsgiSA’s six priorities for intervention. • Government spending on infrastructure will total R787 bn between 2009 and 2012 as part of the Public Infrastructure Programme. This includes the improvement of public transport, roads and rail networks. Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Directorate: Marketing Tel: 012 319 8455
[email protected] The Strategic Plan for South African Agriculture noted the fuel, transport and capital costs as a factor to be considered in the steps necessary to improve the working climate and morale of those engaged in agriculture in South Africa. “Transport costs are influenced largely by inadequate and poorly managed transport infrastructure. Examples of these include the unavailability of railcars for bulk transport, lack of internal competition in rail and port services that result in unreliable and expensive services, limited and costly air freight for agricultural produce, damaged and inadequate national road infrastructure and poor communication infrastructure. These factors alone make production costs in agriculture on the African continent four times more expensive than in Asia, America and Europe.”
The South African government is seeking ways to revitalise the country’s rural railway networks in a bid to improve the agro-logistics industry by shifting cargo from the road back on to rail. Improved agrologistics has the potential to raise the efficiency of food movement whilst also lowering the cost of food processing.“Furthermore, we will facilitate the establishment of agricultural marketing infrastructure for land and agrarian reform beneficiaries and improve the efficiency of agricultural logistics for all commodity value chains.The cost of logistics in both South Africa and the wider African continent have long been cited as one of the main constraints to doing business, and with current high food prices cutting these costs is deemed essential for agro-logistics. Source: Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister, Tina Joemat-Pettersson during her inaugural vote in parliament, 17 June 2009, as quoted in Engineering News Online, www.engineeringnews.co.za
Department of Public Enterprises Tel: 012 431 1000 / 21 www.dpe.gov.za Department of Transport (DoT) Tel: 012 309 3000 www.transport.gov.za Other government departments involved include the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CGTA), the Department of Public Works, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and the Department of Trade and Industry. Road construction, repairs and maintenance form part of Government’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).
DAFF, in correspondence to DoT’s National Freight logistics strategy, constructed an Agro-logistics strategy. The trends observed, which this strategy actively attempts to address, are: • Because of structural and inefficiency problems, agricultural cargo is moved more by road than by rail. • Road transport as an alternative to rail, though, is more expensive (about R60 to R70/ton more). • Serious underutilisation of branch lines to move bulk commodities (about 80% underutilisation level). • Congestions at ports and borders during peak times a problem. • Export certification infrastructure inadequate to meet industry needs. • About 55million tons of agricultural cargo is moved across the country at logistics costs of R17billion per annum (transport cost is about R7.8 billion). • Agricultural freight is increasing at about 17% per annum, ahead of manufacturing or any other sector. • Agricultural freight projected to grow by between 11% and 13% between now and 2015 (good scenario). • Likelihood of a logistics system unable to cope in the long term without additional investment in freight infrastructure. Road Transport Management System (RTMS) is an industry-led, voluntary self-regulation scheme that encourages consignees, consignors and transport operators engaged in the road logistics value chain to implement a vehicle management system that preserves road infrastructure, improves road safety and increases the productivity of the logistics value chain. This scheme also supports the Department of Transport’s National Freight Logistics Strategy. The chairperson of the RTMS is Paul Nordengen. Write to him at
[email protected]. Support Programme for Accelerated Infrastructure Development (SPAID) was a two-year partnership between the Presidency and the Business Trust which ended in 2008/2009. Read about it at www.spaid. co.za
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3. Roleplayers African Micro Mills (Pty) Ltd Tel: 031 584 6250 www.africanmicromills.com
The DBSA is one of several development finance institutions in South and Southern Africa. Its purpose is to accelerate sustainable Localise your milling – take out the socio-economic development transport costs. by funding physical, social and economic infrastructure. Agricultural Business Chamber Tel: 012 349 1315 / 082 441 2308 Envision International www.agbiz.co.za Tel: 011 326 1474 www.envision-int.co.za Find the agrologistics option under the “Economic intelligence” option Training in fleet, transport and fuel on the website. management Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) Tel: 011 961 0100 www.atns.co.za
Grain Handling Organisation of Southern Africa (GOSA) Tel: 011 237 6100
[email protected]
Airport Company South Africa (ACSA) Tel: 011 921 6262 www.airports.co.za
Grain Silo Industry (Pty) Ltd Tel: 012 348 3044
[email protected]
Animal Feeds Manufacturing Association (AFMA) Tel: 012 663 9097 www.afma.co.za
Imperial Logistics Tel: 011 821 5500 www.imperiallogistics.co.za Sponsors of the CSIR “State of Logistics” survey.
AFMA has been part of transport task teams looking for solutions to Industrial Logistic Systems the transport problem. Tel: 011 883 0407 www.ils.co.za Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) JSE Limited Tel: 011 784 8000 Agricultural Products Division www.busa.org.za Tel: 011 520 7535 www.safex.co.za Consulting Engineers South Africa Market notices (location Previously South African Association differentials for commodities) take of Consulting Engineers (SAACE) into account the logistics involved Tel: 011 463 2022 in the transport of commodities. www.cesa.co.za The National Chamber of Council for Scientific and Milling (NCM) Industrial Research (CSIR) Tel: 012 663 1660 Tel: 012 841 3871 www.grainmilling.org.za www.csir.co.za Nepad Business Foundation “Built environment” includes the Infrastructure Sector provision of infrastructure such as Stanley Mkoko – 087 310 1888 roads and ports. Tel: 011 884 1888 Find also the latest “State of Logistics Survey for South Africa: logistics value and cost drivers from a macro and micro economic perspective” on the website. It can be downloaded at www.csir.co.za/sol Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) Tel: 011 313 3911 www.dbsa.org
Road Freight Association Tel: 011 974 4399 www.rfa.co.za South African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF) Tel: 011 455 1726 www.saaff.org.za
South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) SACCI Infrastructure Committee Mr Mbi Mbapeh Tel: 011 446 3800 www.sacci.org.za
TFR has announced their investment programme, which can benefit agriculture greatly. It has a five year capital investment programme, with the intention to invest R34,8 billion in various projects and corridors.
South African Federation of Consulting Engineering Contractors (SAFCEC) Tel: 011 409 0900 www.safcec.co.za
Even though almost 60% thereof will be spent on a maintenance backlog, the rest will be allocated to rail improvements for general freight commodities, which includes South African National Roads agricultural commodities. Agency Ltd (SANRAL) Transnet Port Terminals Tel: 012 426 6000 Tel: 031 308 8333 www.nra.co.za SANRAL operates in four regions – Northern, Eastern, Southern and Western. Find the Road Transport Management System (RTMS) under the “Major Projects” option. The contact number for the RTMS Technical Working Group is 011 848 5300.
Acknowledging that South Africa’s transport capacity has not kept pace with economic growth, TRANSNET Port Terminals announced in June 2008 that R10.3 billion is to be invested in improving the efficiency of operations at South Africa’s ports.
South African Transport and Allied Workers’ Union (SATAWU) Tel: 011 333 6127 / 9247 www.satawu.org.za
South Africa has six ports owned by Transnet Port Terminals – in Durban, East London, Richards Bay, Port Elizabeth, Cape Town and Saldanha. The new Port of Ngqura which forms part of the Coega Industrial Development Zone in the Eastern Cape will join the existing ports along the country’s coastline in 2009.
Stellenbosch University Centre for Supply Chain Management Department of Logistics Tel: 021 808 3981 http://academic.sun.ac.za/CSCM Van Tonder Transport Tel: 012 803 3658 TradeInvestSA www.tradeinvestsa.co.za
According to Transnet Port Terminals an estimated 90 percent of all SADC trade passes through South African Ports. Transnet National Port Authority Tel: 011 351 9001 / 3
Find the infrastructure webpages under the Sectors option for news University of the Free State stories, investment opportunities, Department of Agricultural incentives and trade leads. Economics Tel: 051 401 2250 TRANSNET Ltd. Tel: 011 308 3000 Department of Quantity Surveying www.transnet.co.za and Construction Management Tel: 051 401 3322 Transnet’s key role is to assist in lowering the cost of doing business University of Johannesburg in South Africa as well as enabling Department of Transport and economic growth through the Supply Chain Management provision of ports, rail and pipeline Tel: 011 559 1285 infrastructure. Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) Formerly known as Spoornet Tel: 011 773 9627
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4. African business environment • Africa’s infrastructure lags behind that of other developing regions. • Moving goods across borders and the lack of infrastructure are major obstacles to efficient intra-African trade. The quality of the transport in low and the cost is high. • The NEPAD Secretariat has identified infrastructure development as the most critical need in bridging the gap between Africa and the developed world. Without adequate transport, energy, telecommunications and water networks, all other development initiatives are severely hampered. • Many investors are now viewing the situation as an opportunity. • The Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP), the North South Corridor and the New East-West Transport Corridor (NEWCOR) are all measures adopted to improve intra-African infrastructure. Source: TradeinvestAfrica newsletter April 2009, Issue 3; NEPAD Dialogue December 2009
The simple fact is that as the world grows more prosperous we are going to need more grain and other foods. Where is the land we are going to need to feed the world? There is an abundance in Africa, along with the needed water and labour. And as African countries upgrade their infrastructure, it will improve the ability of farmers to get their grains to market at profitable levels. John Mauldin – www.johnmauldin.com
Some websites and publications: • Transport World Africa is a bi-monthly magazine put out by 3 S Media. Find details at www.3smedia.co.za • www.nepadtransportsummit.org – the NEPAD Transport and Infrastructure Summit. • www.powerindaba.com – “Africa needs to spend $93 billion per annum over the next ten years to ‘catch up on infrastucture with other developing regions’ according to a report released by the United Nations”, says the flyer for the organisers of the February 2010 Public Private Partnerships workshop. • www.africa-investor.com – find the infrastructure menu option. • Also www.africa-rail.com • Find the report “World Bank urges developing countries to invest more in trade logistics” on www.polity.org.za
Some roleplayers African Development Bank www.afdb.org
Southern African Rail Association
[email protected] Find details of the infrastructure www.sararail.org short-Term Action plan (STAP) and other programmes on the website. Enquire here, too, about FESARTA – the Federation of East, Southern Business Action For Africa African Road Transporters www.businessactionforafrica.org Association.
Marketing and finance Intellectual property rights The following chapters are also of relevance: Plant Breeding and Biotechnology; Animal Improvement and Breeders; Indigenous Knowledge and African Vegetables; Indigenous Medicinal Plants.
1. Overview Inventions of the mind – ideas – are very special. All culture and society is built upon innumerable layers of accumulated past knowledge and ideas. In the arts, medicine, education, agriculture, and industry – in almost all areas of human endeavour – knowledge and ideas lie at the base of the flowering of human life and its passions. Intellectual property rights (IPRs) emerged in the industrialised world as a means to mediate and control the circulation of knowledge, as a means of balancing the conflicting rights of different groups involved in the generation and use of ideas of economic value. IPRs are premised on concerns that the creators or authors of ideas have an economic right to a fair return for their effort and a moral right to not have their ideas misrepresented. However, ideas are not simply the product of individuals and corporations. For the most part they incorporate and build upon the traditions, collected wisdom, and understanding of social groups and societies. Sometimes they build upon natural creatures and processes that have taken millions of years to evolve. Generally, at least in part, research is financed or subsidised by public funds and tax dollars, and public institutions are deployed to develop and maintain their social and economic viability. Consequently, society in general has a social right to use ideas to the benefit of the public good – especially if they are key to social and physical well-being. IPRs attempt to balance these rights: the moral, the economic and the social. According to recent estimates by the World Bank, at least 70 per cent of the extra food needed to feed the world must come from innovation (10 per cent could come from farmland expansion and another 20 per cent from intensification). If this proves true, agricultural policymakers must take a close look at how to encourage innovation and co-operation across all sectors of the food supply chain. Sources: CRIS, Issue 2; Wuppertal Institute (adapted); Farming First 5 Oct 2009 – www.farmingfirst.org
Engineers Against Poverty (EPA) www.engineersagainstpoverty.org
Southern Africa Trust Tel: 011 318 1012 www.southernafricatrust.org
2. National strategy and relevant government departments
Infrastructure Consortium for Africa (ICA) – www.icafrica. org. The ICA works “to enhance and accelerate the development of Africa’s infrastructure, and to help remove technical and policy barriers”.
The organisation has identified transport, energy and water infrastructure as important to “facilitate intra-regional trade and investment, and address the special needs of landlocked countries to access the rest of the world”.
Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in South Africa is subject to international agreements, particularly the TRIPS agreement which sets minimum standards for all signatories. A country’s IPR regime consists of several aspects, including standards, limitations and enforcement and these three elements vary widely across countries.
Southern Africa Global Competitiveness Hub Transport Advisor
[email protected] www.satradehub.org
Find the notes on SSATP (SubSaharan Africa Transport Program) on the World Bank’s website. Take the Countries/Africa/Transport options on www.worldbank. org. Find also the logistics competitiveness report
The international body governing IPR is the UN’s World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) of which South Africa (SA) became a member in 1995. SA is also a member of the Paris Convention, the Patent Co-operation Treaty (PCT), the Budapest Treaty and TRIPS. The PCT enables inventors to file patent applications in up to 124 countries simultaneously. Plant breeder’s rights are governed by the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV) (see heading 3) of which SA is a member. SA is not a member of the relevant regional intellectual property association ARIPO (the African Regional Industrial Property Organisation) as, according
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to policy makers, a proliferation of regional treaties could detract from multilateral rule-making. The Department of Trade and Industry (dti) is the custodian of IPR in SA, providing the general enabling legislation and services for registration, protection, examination, adjudication and commercialisation. However legislation can involve a number of governmental departments e.g. the Department of Science and Technology (DST); Arts and Culture; Health; Communications; Water and Environmental Affairs; Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries; and Education. Statutory bodies can also be involved e.g. the National Advisory Council on Innovation and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research.
Department of Trade and Industry (the dti) – www.thedti. gov.za Director: Commercial Law and Policy Tel: 012 394 1510
[email protected] Chief Director: Office of Company and IP Enforcement Consumer and Corporate Regulation Division Tel: 012 394 1505
[email protected] Director: Education and Capacity Building Office of Company and IP Enforcement Consumer and Corporate Regulation Division Tel: 012 394 1523
[email protected]
Registrar for Plant Breeder Rights Act Tel: 012 319 6183
[email protected] Directorate: Research and Technology Development Tel: 012 319 6078
[email protected]
Department of Water and Environmental Affairs – www. environment.gov.za Director: Co-ordination and Administration Tel: 012 310 3210
[email protected] Director: Biosafety/GMOs Tel: 012 310 3395/6
Acting Director: Regulation and Monitoring Services Tel: 012 310 3545 Companies and Intellectual Smeintjes@ environment.gov.za Property Commission (Previously CIPRO) The Biodiversity Act (Act 10 of Registrar of Intellectual Property 2004) provides the framework, Tel: 0861 843 384 norms and standards for the Patent Office Tel: 012 394 0610 conservation, sustainable use and
[email protected] equitable benefit-sharing of South www.cipro.co.za Africa’s biological resources.
Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries – www. daff.gov.za
In addition to the Biodiversity Act and its regulations, the South African Patents Act has been amended to ensure that indigenous Find the different directorates communities are adequately under the “Divisions” menu option compensated when an invention, which is sought to be patented Directorate: Genetic Resources in South Africa, is derived from Tel: 012 319 6024 indigenous biological resource and
[email protected] IK from South Africa. Registrar: Animal Improvement Tel: 012 319 7424
[email protected] There is always a potential risk of losing breeder’s rights through the registration of a patent on an identified gene of animal in another country. Cognisance must be taken of developments in the field of patents/ intellectual property to protect the rights of the owners and developers of South African Landrace breeds. A policy on Landrace breeds and IPR – based on the AU model law should be developed – in co-operation with the SADC livestock and relevant AU sectors.
National Department of Education – www.education.gov.za National Department of Health – www.doh.gov.za Director: Media Officer Tel: 012 312 0420 Registrar of Medicines Tel: 012 312 0420 Long before the advent of allopathic medicines, Africans used traditional medicines derived from natural products for prevention, diagnosis and treatment of social, mental and physical illnesses, as well as for rehabilitation.
The challenge is that it is difficult to apply Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) protection, as applied with allopathic medicines, since indigenous knowledge is often passed on within a communal system without an identifiable inventor or discoverer. Many traditional medicines are derived from plants and it is difficult to claim invention from a natural product. Director: Cultural Development Tel: 012 441 3047/3000
of enabling the recognition, affirmation, promotion, protection and development of indigenous knowledge in South Africa. Subsequent to the adoption of the policy, the National Indigenous Knowledge Systems Office (NIKSO) was established within the DST. NIKSO comprises three directorates and functions, namely: Advocacy and Policy Development, Knowledge Management as well as Knowledge Development.
The National Intellectual Property Office (NIPMO) is being established after the passing of the Intellectual Property Rights from Publicly Financed Research Find the Intellectual Property Rights Act. From Publicly Financed Research National Research Foundation Act at www.dst.gov.za (NRF) Tel: 012 481 4000/4191 General Manager: Innovation www.nrf.ac.za Tel: 012 843 6864
[email protected] The Innovation Fund is an Modern-day factors critical instrument of the DST, managed for improving a country’s by the NRF in accordance with the competitiveness have evolved from national Research & Development a focus on resource endowments to (R&D) Strategy. Visit www. a focus on the growing importance innovationfund.ac.za). There is of knowledge. The nurturing and also a Patent Support Fund and an protection of Intellectual Property Intellectual Property Fund. (IP) is crucial in this regard. From a science and technology policy In addition, the Intellectual perspective, this will be achieved Property Management Office through a transformation to a (IPMO) and the Innovation Fund knowledge-economy, which Commercialisation Office (IFCO) are units within the Innovation is understood as one in which Fund that support IP management knowledge is the basic form of and technology commercialisation, capital and wherein economic respectively. It is understood that growth is driven by innovation. these functions will move to the Technology Innovation Agency South Africa’s ability to create, (TIA). The TIA has been created and subsequently derive enduring to turn smart but cash strapped benefits from, the knowledge- ideas into commercial products that economy is dependent on the will boost South Africa’s economy extent to which we are able to and create jobs. It will build on effectively translate our publicly existing capacity in institutions and funded research and development initiatives such as the Biotechnology (R&D) into innovative products and Regional Innovation Centres, the services that can be commercialised Innovation Fund, the Advanced for the benefit of all South Manufacturing Technology Strategy Africans. implementation unit, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Advocacy and Policy Research and the Advanced Development: National Minerals Initiative. Indigenous Knowledge Systems Office Read about Technology and Human Tel: 012 843 6544 Resources for Industry Programme
[email protected] (THRIP) at www.nrf.ac.za/thrip General Manager: National Indigenous Knowledge Systems The National Department of Office (NIKSO) Arts and Culture – www.dac. Tel: 012 8436683 gov.za
[email protected]
Department of Science and Technology (DST) – www.dst. gov.za
Manager: Advocacy and Policy Development Tel: 012 843 6544 In 2004 the Cabinet adopted the Indigenous Knowledge (IKS) policy, with the overarching objective
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3. International roleplayers The African Intellectual Property Organisation (AIPO or OAPI) is a central registration system for the French speaking African States. Altogether there are 16 countries. The headquarters of OAPI is based in Yaounde, Cameroon. Visit www.oapi.wipo.net Botswana, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe are all members of the African Regional Intellectual Property Organisation (ARIPO) – www.aripo.org The African Union (AU) – visit www.africa-union.org American Intellectual Property Law Association (AIPLA) – www. aipla.org Convention on Biological Diversity – www.cbd.int; take the “Programmes” and “Article 8 (j): Traditional Knowledge, Innovations and Practices” menu options. The “Protocol” menu option takes you to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, which seeks to protect biological diversity. The European Patent Office (EPO) provides a uniform application procedure for individual inventors and companies seeking patent protection in up to 38 European countries. Visit www.epo.org. Find the European network of patent databases at www.espacenet.com. Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys – www.itma.org.uk Find the links to all international trade mark offices and international trade mark organisations under “Useful links”. International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (AIPPI) – www.aippi.org The aim of the International Committee for Animal Recording (ICAR) is to promote the development and improvement of the activities of performance recording and the evaluation of farm livestock – www.icar. org International Federation of Intellectual Property Attorneys – www. ficpi.org The International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI) is an autonomous international scientific organisation, supported by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). IPGRI’s mandate is to advance the conservation of plant genetic resources for the benefit of present and future generations. Visit www.bioversityinternational. org International Trademark Association (INTA) – www.inta.org The objective of the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV) is the protection of new varieties of plants through intellectual property rights. Visit www.upov.int www.lawyersforafrica.com - find the notes on Intellectual Property and the African Intellectual Property Organisation (OAPI) on the website of this Harare-based law firm. Find out about the concept of Livestock Keepers’ Rights (LKR) at www. pastoralpeoples.org, website of the League for Pastoral Peoples. PhytoTrade Africa – www.phytotradeafrica.com. The Southern African Natural Products Association works “on behalf of [their] members to develop products and partnerships for the benefit of Southern Africa’s people and biodiversity”.
The SEED Initiative supports and promotes innovators in developing countries. It is a UK-based partnership between governments, international organisations, research and capacity building institutions, and business. More information can be found at www.seedinit.org TRIPS Agreement – see World Trade Organisation United Kingdom Intellectual Property Office – www.ipo.gov.uk The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) promotes international co-operation among its 193 Member States and six Associate Members in the fields of education, science, culture and communication - http://portal.unesco.org United States Patent and Trademark Office – www.uspto.gov The World Health Assembly on May 2008 adopted a global strategy aimed at filling the research gap for diseases afflicting developing countries that places the UN agency squarely in global intellectual property policymaking, and despite compromises is the most significant reference document on IP and public health in years. Visit www.who.int The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) is responsible for promoting the progressive development and harmonisation of IP legislation, standards and procedures among its member states. This includes further development of international laws and treaties regarding patents; trademarks, industrial designs and geographical indications; and copyright and related rights. Visit www.wipo.int • WIPO runs a range of programmes aimed at increasing the effective use of IP by developing nations as a tool for economic development. WIPO is responsible for the promotion of the protection of intellectual property throughout the world through co-operation among States and has been instrumental in ensuring that a number of developing and transitional countries establish a national industrial property information system. • WIPO has established the Intergovernmental Committee (IGC) in order to address the protection of IPR interfacing with traditional knowledge, folklore and genetic/biological resources. Developing countries expect international legal binding instruments to be the end result whilst developed countries do not expect legally binding instruments. Negotiations have collapsed in this regard. • The mandate of WIPO also includes the implementation of the Development Agenda as concluded by the General Assembly of WIPO in October 2007. The Development Agenda deals with the IPR interfacing with social, economic and developmental issues. • The WIPO Worldwide Academy is entirely devoted to providing training in IP. The modules, using distance teaching methods, are: Essential Copyright Law, Competition Law, Patent Law, Trademark Law, Industrial Design Law, Internet Aspects of Copy right and Trademarks, Legal Aspects Of Electronic Commerce, Traditional Knowledge and Biodiversity, Collective Rights Management: Performer’s Rights. • An IP programme with a focus on the special circumstances prevailing in developing countries has been formulated. The modules approach the subject-matter against the background of international conventions and the obligations they impose on developing countries. • Applications for WIPO financial assistance must be submitted to the WIPO Worldwide Academy. Find the different contact details at www. wipo.int/academy/en/contact.html The World Trade Organisation (WTO) is the global international organisation dealing with the rules of trade between nations. Visit www. wto.org. The WTO administers the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), an international agreement negotiated in 1994 that introduces intellectual property rules into the multilateral trading system for the first time. The TRIPS agreement under the WTO allows for patents over life forms and requires that plant varieties be protected by patents or sui generis protection. The TRIPS Agreement can also protect the interfacing of IP and IK (Indigenous Knowledge).
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4. National roleplayers Companies and Intellectual Property Commission Previously CIPRO Registrar of Intellectual Property Tel: 0861 843 384 Patent Office Tel: 012 394 0610
[email protected] www.cipro.co.za Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Rosemary Wolson Intellectual Property Manager Tel: 012 841 4301
[email protected]
SAIIPL represent patent attorneys, agents, practitioners and academics in SA who specialise in IPL. Southern Education & Research Alliance (SERA) The African Centre for Gene Technologies Tel: 012 420 5497 www.seralliance.com Stellenbosch University Prof Kennedy Dzama Tel: 021 808 4916
[email protected]
Professor Kennedy Dzama points out that “all stakeholders need to play an active role in countering genetic piracy i.e. Government – DAFF, ARC, breeders, breed societies, academics, research Patent, Trade Mark and copyright institutions. From a policy attorneys standpoint there should be clear guidelines protecting our valuable, The Innovation Hub unique genotypes from piracy. Tel: 012 844 0000 But first the genotypes need to www.theinnovationhub.com be documented in great detail and “A community of pioneers, publicised so that they don’t show up in another country disguised as inventors, entrepreneurs …” some other breed.” PROLINNOVA SA Triumph Venture Capital Tel: 033 346 0796 Tel: 011 463 2054 www.prolinnova.org.za www.triumphvc.co.za Research Institute for The Law Faculties at the various Innovation and Sustainability South African universities. Details (RIIS) of two South African universities Tel: 012 844 0670/1 linked to the WIPO Worldwide www.riis.co.za Academy are: South African Innovation University of Cape Town Network (SAINe) UCT-WIPO Tel: 012 844 0673/2 Business Graduate School www.saine.co.za Tel: 021 650 9111 www.uct.ac.za South African Institute of Intellectual Property Law University of South Africa (SAIIPL) UNISA-WIPO Tel: 012 844 0564 Centre for Business Law www.saiipl.org.za Tel: 012 429 8432 DM Kisch INC Tel: 011 324 3000 Tel: 012 460 3203 www.dmkisch.com
5. Websites and publications For an accessible introduction to IPR and Information issues, see: • James Boyle (1997) A Politics of Intellectual property: Environmentalism for the Net, http://james-boyle.com • Vandana Shiva Protect or Plunder? Understanding Intellectual Property Rights (Zed Books, 2001) • Chapter 7 on the World Intellectual Property Organisation and Intellectual Property Rights in Global Media Governance, by Seán Ó Siochrú and Bruce Girard with Amy Mahan (Rowman & Littlefield, 2002). For more substantive readings, see: • Ronald Betting Copyrighting Culture: The Political Economy of Intellectual Property, (Westview Press, 1996) • Rosemary Coombes The Cultural Life of Intellectual Properties: Authorship, Appropriation and the Law, (Duke University Press, (1998) • Lawrence Lessig The Future of Ideas: The Fate of the Commons in a Connected World (Random House, NY, 2001).
• Visit the websites of roleplayers mentioned in this chapter e.g. www. saiipl.org.za • www.ip-watch.org – Intellectual Property Watch • www.eta-awards.co.za – rewarding innovation in the energy sector. • The WIPO Intellectual Property Handbook offers a comprehensive introduction and is available on their website – www.wipo.int • A Developing Country Perspective on Animal Breeders and Intellectual Property Rights MM Scholtz, South African Society for Animal Science. Visit www.sasas.co.za • Protecting Business Ideas Reinhardt Buys and Pria Chetty Frontline Publishing ISBN 1920099166 • The Patent Journal is a journal published by the Government Printers on a monthly basis. It contains information on patents, trade marks, designs and copyright on cinematographic films that exist in South Africa, such as notification of provisional and complete applications, and notices of amendment, withdrawal and assignment. This Patent Journal is obtainable from Government Printers in Pretoria. • Find the option “Intellectual property” on www.wrc.org.za, website of the Water Research Commission.
6. Livestock Animal breeders have always “protected” their endeavours commercially by developing breed societies and using pedigrees to protect their knowledge or Intellectual Property which have been developed by master breeders, or by forming companies and holding germplasm. Biotechnology requires vast sums of money which are invested to improve animals genetically. With these investments come expectations by the companies of reward and the reality that technical improvements must be protected. The broad area of biotechnology in stud breeding encompasses many of the patent applications. The list of items in the field of animal breeding that may require IP protection include genetic markers, statistical methods, transgenic and cloned animals, expressed sequence tags new methods (e.g. ultrasound) to measure traits, electronic methods to identify animals, computer software and other written materials. Manuscripts, web pages and software can by copyrighted. Other forms can be protected using trade secrets or by patenting. Refer to the US patent and Trademark websitehttp://patents.Uspto.gov/; European Patent Office – http://ep.espacenet. com; PCT Gazette – http://pctgazette.wipo.int, ARIPO – http://aripo.org/; Patenting Sentinel and Action Service – http://www.psas-web.net/about_ psas.htm 2020 and beyond The 21st Century will bring sequenced genomes, transgenic livestock, cloned animals, artificial intelligence; and some animal breeders will continue to patent their IP. Economic, legal and ethical concerns will likely grow and change. Patenting can encourage innovations and technology transfer. The “landscape” of agriculture has changed and some IP will move quickly into the market place and disadvantage certain production sectors. The role of government? • To provide an operating framework to balance private vs public interests with the input of interest groups like breeder societies. • To develop a policy that will encourage innovation in the South African Livestock Breeding Industry and continue to while not limiting access to technology, research and development. • To consult the AU model for IPR when drawing up legislation protecting animal breeder’s and IPR. • To explore the unique needs in terms of IPR of developing countries. Developing countries should guard against bioprospecting - Plant Genetic Resources: (e.g. the Malva Flow er – w here here has been no benefit sharing w ith the original ow ners). O ther instances are the controversy surrounding the Hoodia and Rooibos plants. - Animal Genetic Resources: SA should establish w hich countries do not ratify the Genetic Biodiversity Treaty (w hich requires “access and benefit-sharing”) and put a moratorium on the export of genetic material of landrace breeds to those countries, utilising the regulations of the A nimal Improvement A ct (A ct 62 of 1998). • Indigenous knowledge, including animal husbandry and breeding practice, should be documented and captured and such IPR should be protected, using the law of data protection that is a form of IPR. Source: Max F Rothschild,
[email protected] (Center for Integrated Animal Genomics, Iowa State University)
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7. Plant Breeders’ Rights Refer to the Plant Breeding and Biotechnology chapter.
Should it materialise that the patentee made, a false statement in the prescribed statement or a material representation, which he knew or should reasonably have known to be false at the time of lodging the application, the patent will be liable to be revoked. Conclusion
8. Biopiracy The prescribed procedure for a party involved in research in South Africa is as follows: • At the outset an applicant for a permit must identify the relevant stakeholder. A stakeholder may be a person, an organ of state or a community providing or giving access to the IBR or IK to which an application relates. • The applicant must disclose all material information relating to bioprospecting to the stakeholder. Based on this disclosure, the applicant must obtain consent from the stakeholder for the provision of or access to the IBR required by the applicant. This must include consent to use any of the stakeholder’s knowledge of the IBRs for the proposed bioprospecting. • The applicant and the shareholder must then enter into two agreements, one being a Material Transfer Agreement (MTA), which will regulate the provision of or access to the IBRs; the other being a Benefit Sharing Agreement (BSA), which provides for the sharing of future benefits that may be derived from the relevant bioprospecting. (These are standard agreements, which are annexed to the regulations of the Biodiversity Act). • These MTA and BSA agreements must be submitted to the Minister of Environmental Affairs for approval. It is important to note that, unless approved by the Minister, the agreements are of no effect. • Once the Minister is satisfied that the interests of any stakeholders have been protected, the Minister or the authorised Issuing Authority may issue a permit to the applicant for his proposed bioprospecting. This permit may be issued free of, or subject to, conditions set by the Minister or Issuing Authority. • The permit will specify the purpose and the period for which it was issued. The IBR involved must also be specified as well as the quantity and source thereof. • Once the permit has been obtained, the applicant can then commence with his bioprospecting. • Under the Biodiversity Act and Regulations, it is an offence to undertake bioprospecting involving IBRs; to export any IBRs out of South Africa for the purpose of bioprospecting or any other research; or perform any activity for which a permit was issued in any manner other than under the conditions subject to which the permit was issued. Patents Act On 14 December 2007, the South African Patents Act, Act 57 of 1978, was amended to reflect some of the above aspects of the Biodiversity Act and now includes a new formal requirement in this regard. In terms of the Act and the relevant Regulations, every patent applicant is required to declare whether or not his invention is based on or derived from an IBR, or IK. Regulations were published on the same date, which further regulate the process. The administrative effect of these amendments is that a form P26 must always be filed with a South African complete application and a South African national phase application. In the event that the invention is based on an IBR or IK, the registrar of patents will thereafter require the applicant to furnish proof to his title or authority to make use thereof. Should this prescribed statement not be submitted, regardless of whether or not the invention is based on an IBR or IK, the patent will not be accepted by the Registrar.
All researchers interested in or engaged with research on IBRs or IK must be wary of the obligation to obtain a permit. If research has already commenced it may continue, pending the outcome of the application for a permit. The relevant agreements will then have to be concluded with the interested stakeholders. The Biodiversity Act grants the researcher of such research a year, from date of commencement of the Act, to conclude an appropriate BSA, while the Biodiversity Regulations grants six months, from date of commencement of the regulations, for the submission of an application for a permit. Should the permit be refused for one or other reason, then research will have to be terminated. However, the refusal is subject to appeal. It is expected that similar provisions will be introduced into the Trademarks and Designs Acts in order to protect other forms of IK and use.
For more information in this regard, contact At van Rooy of DM Kisch Inc. Email
[email protected] or visit www.dmkisch.com The National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act 10 Of 2004, was introduced into South African law inter alia to regulate and protect IBRs, genetic/biological resources, IK and its use, with an aim to prevent biopiracy. The regulations to the Biodiversity Act were published on 8 February 2008, and came into effect on 1 April 2008. The Biodiversity Act derives from the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) which was negotiated within the United Nations Environment Programme and adopted in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. South Africa ratified the CBD in 1995. Article 8 of the CBD affirms that the holders of IK have rights over their knowledge, innovations and practices whether or not they are capable of being protected by intellectual property. The CBD further states that contracting parties must encourage and develop modes of co-operation for use and development of IK. As a member of this Convention, South Africa has subsequently enacted the Biodiversity Act. A pivotal development created by this Act is that before any research based on or derived from any IBR or IK can be conducted, a permit must be obtained from the relevant authority and the procedure for such must be strictly adhered to.
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Marketing and finance Managing your finances A. Overview This chapter covers the following financial considerations, vital for farm financial management: • record keeping • cash flow • income tax
• From Internal Sources: The farmer’s own records and financial statements are indispensable. A farm business without records is a chicken without a head!
What a record keeping system should be • Useful: There is little point in gathering information and not using it in the process of management in order to plan the way forward. A farm record-keeping system is essential, but the records should be useful too. It is important that the farmer knows how to gather the right information so that it can be used to meet his own planning needs. The record-keeping system should therefore meet the specific needs of the farm. • Simple and easy to use: Record-keeping should be simple and easy to use – a simple system is more useful than a detailed one that takes up too much time and effort. It must be done regularly and will reflect what is happening on your farm at all times. A personal computer is an important aid in analysing and processing farm management information. There are special software packages for farmers which enable the farmer to deal with a great deal of data in a very short space of time. Complicated calculations can also be done quickly.
The reader should also familiarise himself/herself with the notes on farm management information, analyses of farming results and farm planning covered in Finance and Farmers. This book is published by Standard Bank, and covers all the principles of finance in a solid, helpful manner. Finance and Farmers is also available in Afrikaans.
What the system should make provision for
In addition, the AgriReview newsletter contains helpful articles on these and other financial and marketing topics. Visit www.standardbank.co.za or contact your nearest Standard Bank.
The record-keeping system will depend on the nature and size of the farm business as well as the financial management requirements of the farmer. Your system should make provision for:
Lastly, computer software is available to take much of the sweat out of managing your finances. The interested reader is referred to the ICT chapter (see companies like LPF Systems and DFM Software Solutions). Details of financial consultants can be found in the Agricultural Consultants chapter.
• Inventory (or asset register). This is a schedule of all the physical assets of the farm business and their money values. Drawing up an inventory is the first step of farm record keeping. The size, quantity and money value of everything on the farm (land, fixed improvements, machinery, stocks and supplies, etc.) need to be recorded. • Depreciation schedule. Depreciation is the loss or decline in value of assets such as vehicles, machinery, tools, equipment etc. and is caused by age, wear and tear. Ideally the amount written off every year for depreciation should be kept in a special fund for when the item in question needs to be replaced. Remember – Tax legislation makes provision for other ways to write off depreciation. • Record of accounts receivable and accounts payable. A good accounting system (cash journal, buying journal for credit purchases, sales journal for credit sales and a ledger) should be kept to record all transactions. A separate income and expenditure record should be kept for each individual enterprise in the farm business. This recordkeeping system is needed to: - calculate the net farm income and the taxable income for a financial year; - determine the financial efficiency w ith w hich each product is produced; - evaluate the efficiency of the farm business as a w hole; - furnish information for making management decisions; - analyse the cash flow ; and - provide useful information w hen draw ing up budgets for the future. • A comprehensive record of income and expenditure entails using information from the following sources: - bank statements - cash analysis book (records of receipts and expenditure) - petty cash book - w age book - cheque book counterfoils and deposit slips - deposit book - payments - proof of payment, credit vouchers and sales slips, statements, invoices and delivery slips (expenses) • Production Records. These provide a good overall picture of the farm business. They are valuable to identify problems as well as opportunities! The records are usually used for crop cultivation, livestock, labour and machinery. • Crop cultivation records – will include details of crops, fruit, orchard numbers, areas, yields, soil analysis, fertilisation, seeding, cultivation methods, weed and pest control and eventual results.
B. Training Agricultural Colleges and the Provincial Department of Agriculture run short training courses dealing with the financial and marketing side of farming. At Cedara in KwaZulu-Natal, for examples, the following are included in the courses offered: Farm record-keeping; farm business management and entrepreneurial skills. Find contact details for the Agricultural Colleges in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter. AgriSeta-accredited training providers offer courses on the financial side of the business. Banks (see Banks chapter) have identified the need for training and have stepped into this mentoring role by providing specific programmes for those who are granted credit as well as providing training in financial management of their enterprises.
C. Record keeping It is significant that one of the questions on the credit evaluation form for Mafisa applicants asks whether the applicant keeps some form of record keeping A clear picture of costs, yields and production over time is essential. A picture from the PAST enables a farmer to make good comparisons and know what went wrong, but especially when and why something worked! This is a light to the PRESENT but especially for the FUTURE – if a farmer wants to be able to manage and control his business. Internal and external sources There are two sources from which a farmer makes decisions: • External Sources: Obtaining information about farming from outside the farm business e.g. magazines, attending farmers’ meetings or events, brochures etc. is important to a farmer who needs to make wise decisions.
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• Livestock records – deal with stock-farming, feed, remedies, dosing, marketing costs for a specific flock or herd, individual records of milk production, calving records. • Livestock tables set out opening and closing numbers of animals, their value, age, gender etc. • Labour records – are used to record all matters regarding labourers on the farm – such as employment contracts which should include wages, rations, medical costs and workmen’s compensation. The number of workers, loans, debts, leave and absences should be included. • Machinery records – details of model, age, book value, repairs, service records, hours worked and insurance. This information will assist a farmer in planning, implementation, control and co-ordination of his tasks as a farm manager.
D. Cash-flow Cash-flow statement • Usually, the flow of cash into a farm business is seasonal (e.g. when the crop is harvested and sold). Expenses (cash outflow) happens throughout the year though. It is wise to know what money is coming in, and when, so that you can spread out your finances to cover your business when things are lean. • The large number of farm businesses which experience cash-flow and related problems prove the point that this is an essential aspect of financial management.
The cash flow statement comprises three components: 1. Income • Operating Income from products e.g. wool, maize, milk; • Capital income (sales of livestock, machinery etc) and non-farming income. Only cash income is regarded as income, and only in the month it is received. 2. Expenditure • Operating Expenditure (seed, fertiliser, purchased stock-feed, etc.); • Capital Expenditure (purchasing of livestock, machinery, etc.), debt repayments, and non-farming expenditure. Only actual payments are recorded in the cash-flow statement, and then only in the month of payment. Note: (1) Non-cash flow items (e.g. depreciation) are not recorded in the cash-flow statement. (2) Only actual payments are recorded, not arrears (items such as seed and fertiliser are often bought on credit and only recorded in the cash-flow statement when the account is paid). 3. Bank Balance The surplus or shortfall for a particular month is calculated by deducting total expenditure from total income.
Cash flow budget A cash-flow budget shows the following:
A cash-flow statement refers to the sources, amounts and dates of cash inflow and cash outflow within a specific period. A historical cash-flow statement summarises cash flow in the past and is usually compiled from recent records. A projected cash flow (budget) is based on the expected cash flow for a period in the future.
1. When and how much cash is received. 2. When and how cash expenditure is incurred. 3. When cash surpluses and cash shortfalls are experienced. 4. When and how much credit needs to be applied for. 5. What the credit is needed for. 6. The time and amounts of repayments.
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Notes: • A farmer’s total cash and debt position is important here. It is not the profitability that is noted: what is relevant is the actual cash and debt position. • A cash-flow budget can cover a period of 1 month, a few months, a year or even longer. • The reason for drawing up a budget is important e.g. if the usual farming activities are envisaged for the following year, a monthly budget that stretches over one year could be compiled; if expansions are planned e.g. land, the budget should cover a longer period. • Because of the uncertainties in farming, it is difficult to determine the cash flow for a long period and therefore the budget must be reviewed on a regular basis to update it when better information becomes available. A cash-flow budget is important for it enables the farmer to make arrangements with the bank manager or agribusinesses to: • extend credit; • defer payment; • take out additional loans; • schedule the purchase of capital items to coincide with cash surpluses; • regulate enterprises so that income becomes more regular; and • sell unnecessary capital items in periods of cash shortages. Cash-flow budgets are a sound method of controlling cash and focus on the viability of future planning. The advantages and problems are listed below (try to work around the disadvantages!) Advantages • Guides farming and domestic expenditure – the farmer knows how much money flows in and when and how much is spent and on what. • Helps to make provision for large expenses. • Helps to prevent spontaneous or impulsive purchases by the farmer. • Helps the farmer to make decisions on credit requirements and repayment conditions. • Facilitates communication between the bank and the farmer. • Banks managers often require the type of information contained in a cash-flow budget before loans are granted.
Disadvantages • Information has to be obtained from several sources. • Unforeseen future events could disrupt the financial plan. However, any plan is better than none at all. • Compiling a cash-flow budget is time-consuming. • If unreliable information is used, the cash-flow budget could be misleading rather than helpful.
Remember! A cash-flow budget is invaluable when it comes to obtaining credit and finance. In future, it will become more and more difficult to obtain credit without submitting a complete cash flow budget. Sources: Finance and Farmers (Standard Bank). www.standardbank.co.za; www.brain. org.za; www.werksmans.co.za; www.dti.org.za.
E. Income Tax • The first thing to consider is how you’re going to operate your business – as a sole proprietor, a partnership, a close corporation or a company. Each structure has its own tax and other financial implications that must be carefully reviewed. For example, while a sole proprietor has the advantage of being able to write off losses from the business against other personal income, he doesn’t have the limited liability offered by other entities. • Get good advice right from the start, either by doing your own research or by hiring a professional. Some of the decisions you make when you set up your business cannot be undone later, and you may regret being hasty. Good examples are deciding whether to lease or buy offices, equipment and vehicles and drawing up contracts with clients.
• Avoid problems with the SARS by getting your accounting right from the outset. Seemingly small mistakes can cause major problems later if uncovered by the taxman. • Keep meticulous records of all financial and tax affairs for at least five years afterwards, so you’re equipped to answer any questions from the Receiver. Being organised goes a long way in convincing the taxman that you know what you’re doing. • Make sure you’re not losing out on any deductions that you can claim. • Don’t make decisions based purely on the tax advantages, and always factor in the cost of a tax-saving plan and any administration time involved. • Know the rules about when you can postpone payment of tax, because this can help your cash flow enormously. Because you’ve got the use of the money for longer, you’d also have the advantage of either earning interest on it, or using it to save yourself interest. • Mark on your calendar when the various taxes that you are liable for are due, so that you don’t land up paying interest and penalties on outstanding taxes.
Useful contacts Boshoff Visser Tel: 028 722 8049 www.boshoffvisser.co.za
South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) Tel: 011 621 6600 www.saica.co.za
Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA) Previously the Public Accountants’ South African Revenue Service and Auditors’ Board (PAAB) (SARS) Tel: 011 622 8533 www.sars.co.za www.irba.co.za The tax laws are administered A valuable site for those registered by the Commissioner for SARS, with the IRBA. Pretoria, acting through SARS offices situated in various centres Logista throughout the country. SARS is Tel: 012 362 1431 obligated by law to determine and collect from each taxpayer only the Netto Financial Services correct amount of tax that is due. Tel: 021 530 1260 www.netto.co.za Tax Warehouse Tel: 018 788 6203 PricewaterhouseCoopers – Agri Industry Group National Leader – 023 346 5502 Central Region – 051 503 4100 Northern Region – 013 754 3300 Eastern Region – 041 391 4400 KwaZulu-Natal – 031 271 2000
Tax publications and websites • Refer to the latest SARS Tax Guide for Small Businesses. The Guide is obtainable from any SARS office or on their website www.sars.co.za. The website itself is a must. Find the useful tax links option too. • Practical Tax Handbook for SMMEs and the Practical VAT Handbook – available from Fleet Street Publications. Contact them at tel. 011 699 6531 or visit www.fsp.co. • Business Partners has a number of publications available. Call 011 480 8700 or visit www.businesspartners.co.za • www.butterworths.co.za – for anything to do with tax and legal matters • www.sataxreturn.com – where everything happens electronically • www.tax.co.za
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Marketing and finance Marketing 1.Overview In a market-orientated system the price of a product is determined by supply and demand. A balance is achieved between what people are prepared to supply at a price and what people are willing to pay for the product. The essence of sound marketing is: • find out what the consumer wants • supply it at a profit For agricultural produce, how much the consumer wants and will purchase is affected by a number of factors, the most important being: • • • • • •
the price of the goods tastes and preferences of consumers number of consumers incomes of consumers prices of related goods (competition) range of goods available to consumers
2. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Directorate: Marketing Tel: 012 319 8455
[email protected] www.daff.gov.za – find the government gazette notices under “Publications” The aim of the Directorate: Marketing is to develop, promote and support competitive, open and representative agricultural markets. The directorate comprises the following sub directorates: • Domestic Market Development • Commodity Marketing • Marketing Administration
OTHER Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Find contact details in the Agro-processing chapter. National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) Tel: 012 341 1115
[email protected] www.namc.co.za The Marketing of Agricultural Products Act, Act No.47 of 1996, was created following widespread negotiations amongst all directly affected groups in the agricultural marketing sector. The Act came into being on 7 January 1997 and provided for the establishment of the National Agricultural Marketing Council.
Producers need to be aware of marketing and market realities. Farmers also should be aware that the price paid by the eventual consumer is made up of the amount of money paid out to farmers for their produce plus all the costs involved in getting it to the consumer in the form in which he or she purchases it. There also has to be a reasonable return to those doing the marketing and processing for carrying out these functions.
The objectives of the 1996 Act are:
The percentage share of the final price, which is taken up by the marketing function, is known as the “marketing margin”. Sometimes this margin can be quite a high percentage and this may be used to argue that farmers or consumers are being exploited. High margins can often be fully justified by the costs involved. There are bodies like the Food Price Monitoring Committee and the Competition Commission who act as policemen and try to ensure that this chain is fair.
These objectives are not to be pursued at the expense of food security or job opportunities.
Some producers have become more involved in the supply chain and this is usually to their profit. Stats SA publishes two price indices – the Consumer Price Index (CPI), based on prices at retail level, and the Producer Price Index (PPI)., based on prices at the first point of trade, thereby measuring the cost of production. If the production cost of a product decreases, one can reasonably expect a decrease in the price the consumer pays. In addition to these two indexes, the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries also publishes a quarterly index of the price of farm requisites. Analysis of these three indices shows how prices develop in the value chains. Source: the article “What can we do about high food prices” at www.farmerweekly. co.za
• • • •
to increase market access for all market participants; to promote the efficient marketing of agricultural products; to optimise export earnings from agricultural products; to increase the viability of the agricultural sector.
The role of the NAMC is to advise the Minister of Agriculture on the application and co-ordination of agricultural marketing policy in accordance with national economic goals, social and developmental policies and international trade trends, as well as matters relating to statutory measures affecting the marketing of agricultural products. The agricultural marketing deregulation process that began in 1997, in terms of the Marketing of Agricultural Products Act (1996), has been completed. Agricultural industries have established an assortment of bodies to serve the agricultural sector in place of the former control boards. These structures include industry forums, trusts, section 21 companies and producer organisations.
3. Roleplayers Note: Marketing Diplomas and Modules are offered at various colleges and universities.
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Agri-Africa Consultants Eckart Kassier Tel: 021 886 6826 / 082 950 9294 Fax: 086 684 6143 / 086 670 7439
[email protected] www.agri-africa.co.za
Grain SA Tel: 056 515 2145 www.grainsa.co.za
Included in training courses offered are “Advanced maize production and marketing” and “Farm Consulting in agribusiness, financial management for profits”. and technical farm management; agricultural marketing; agricultural Institute for Global Dialogue development; project design Tel: 011 315 1299 and management including Black www.igd.org.za Economic Empowerment. Marketing Surveys and Agri Direct Marketing (Pty) Statistical Analysis (MSSA) Ltd Tel: 012 804 7788 Tel: 041 487 0251 / 082 411 4755 www.mssa-research.co.za Agri Promo (www.agripromo. Proudly South African co.za) is a one-stop agricultural Agriculture and Food media and marketing company Tel: 011 327 7778 www.proudlysa.co.za Agrimark Trends (AMT) Tel: 012 361 2748 Research in Action www.agrimark.co.za Tel: 083 300 7756 www.researchinaction.co.za Agricultural and Industrial Marketing Company Sirkel Sourcing Company Tel: 012 993 1975 / 082 573 4344 Tel: 021 876 4891 www.theaimco.com www.sirkel.co.za Helps find markets and logistics solutions for communities. Training is also offered in trade matters, marketing and value chain management
A food sourcing company for overseas clients
South African Advertising Research Foundation (SAARF) Tel: 011 463 5340 / 1 / 2 Agricultural Colleges, working www.saarf.co.za with the Provincial Departments of Agriculture, present marketing- Stellenbosch University related short courses. Find contact Centre for Supply Chain details in the Agricultural Education Management and Training chapter. Department of Logistics Tel: 021 808 3981 Agricultural Economics http://academic.sun.ac.za/CSCM Association of South Africa (AEASA) Unilever Institute of Strategic
[email protected] Marketing www.aeasa.org.za (Based at the University of Cape Town) Bureau for Food and Tel: 021 650 5213 Agricultural Policy (BFAP) www.unileverinstitute.co.za Tel: 012 420 4583 www.bfap.co.za University of the Free State DFM Software Solutions Tel: 021 904 1154 www.dfmsoftware.co.za The MB4000 Farm Management package allows the user to record production records per block, keep record of deliveries, packouts and payments. eWheels Tel: 012 807 6809 / 082 959 5679 www.ewheels.co.za
• Department of Agricultural Economics Tel: 051 401 2250 • Centre for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Tel: 051 401 2163
[email protected] • (Construction Related) Department of Quantity Surveying and Construction Management Tel: 051 401 3322 • Lengau Agricultural centre Tel: 051 4438859
[email protected]
MapIT Licensed Data Partner (“put University of Pretoria your business on the map”) Prof André Louw Tel: 012 420 5772 GPB Consulting
[email protected] Tel: 021 852 7811 www.consultgpb.co.za Find details of the other universities Overall planning (facility master in the Agricultural Education and plans) and feasibility studies – Training chapter. mainly agricultural industry related.
4. Websites and publications For access to timely, market-related information, most farmers read the weekly publications – either the Landbouweekblad or the Farmer’s Weekly. This information is also available electronically. Visit www.landbou.com or www.farmersweekly.co.za. Find the article “From bargainer to beggar in 10 years” amongst the archived articles at www.farmersweekly.co.za. Dr Phillip Theunissen has written that the Marketing of Agricultural Products Act has led to farmers being held hostage to low international prices, while local production costs play no part in determining prices, creating a situation where farmers are price takers because they have no collective bargaining power. “Agriculture and food security in South Africa are heading for an iceberg”, he says. Although there is the occasional place where they are dated, the “Agricultural Marketing Extension” on the Department of Agriculture’s website are highly useful. Visit www.daff.gov.za (take the Publications and then General Publications menu options). • Paper No. 1 provides a general background to marketing issues in South Africa. • Paper No. 2 is on horticultural marketing extension. • Paper No. 3 reviews the South African horticultural market. • Paper No. 4 looks at how extension officers can assist farmers with market information. • Paper No. 5, on cereals marketing, mainly maize but also other cereals of interest to emerging farmers. • Paper No. 6 is on dairy farming. • Paper No. 7 is on livestock. • Paper No. 8 reviews wool and mohair marketing. • Paper No. 9 covers poultry and eggs marketing. The Directorate Marketing at DAFF have various manuals and policy reports. Contact Billy Morokolo at 012 319 8455 or write to
[email protected]. Find the Agricultural Marketing Information System at www.agis.agric.za Also find the “economic intelligence” option at www.agbiz.co.za A number of reports and publications are available from the National Agricultural Marketing Council. Find the “Publications” menu option at www.namc.co.za or call 012 341 1115. www.2b-marketing.co.za – “Practical marketing support for small businesses in South Africa” A retail newsletter is available from Bizcommunity.com. Write to
[email protected]
International • International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) – www.iied.org. Find the “Sustainable Markets” menu option. Professor André Louw from the University of Pretoria was the Southern Africa co-ordinator of research into “small-scale producers in modern agrifood markets”. The website for this specific research is www. regoverningmarkets.org • See the analysis of Shoprite Checkers, Pick n Pay, Spar and Woolworths from www.fas.usda.gov/GainFiles • www.intracen.org – International Trade Centre (ITC) website. • The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) puts out a report “World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE)”. Get a free e-mail subscription to the WASDE and other USDA crop reports at http://usda.mannlib.cornell.edu. Commodity forecasts can also be found at the Office of the Chief Economist (OCE) menu option at www.usda.gov • www.fairtrade.net – “Guarantees a better deal for producers”. • www.macmap.org – “Making import tariffs and market barriers transparent” • World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) – www.wuwm.org • World Trade Organisation – www.wto.org • Farm Concern International, pro-poor marketing development initiatives for Sub-Saharan Africa – www.familyconcern.net
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5. Today, the success of farm planning starts at the market What does this mean? Production should be market oriented – knowing what the customer wants (demand) and the price at which you as the farmer are prepared to supply it (supply). • Decide on your target group – this is your particular group of customers (their age, are they male or female, where do they live – in a city or farm, what do they do? Are they corporates (businessmen or professionals – doctors, lawyers), farmers etc., what are their interests? • Determine what their needs are (what do they want to buy and how much are they prepared to pay).
The marketing process: 1. Find out what customers want by doing market research. Visit the Department of Agriculture. Speak to Extension Officers and to as many people as possible. Who is going to buy your product? How can you make your product better? 2. Identify the commodity (or commodities) that is suitable for you to produce. 3. Plan the production of the product – how you are going to do this, using the best season for the product you have chosen. At the beginning of the summer, before the rains? 4. Produce your chosen commodity. 5. Choose the marketing channel that suits you best and where you can make the most profit. Explore Co-operatives. Refer to the section on forming Co-operatives in this directory.
The marketing chain The marketing chain is the process the farmer has to follow to get the product from the farm to the consumer. You can benefit by adding value to the products (see the block in green in the next column). You increase your profit by being involved in the washing, packaging, storage, processing and retailing (selling) yourself. Using the best methods and paying attention to cleanliness and food safety will ensure that your product will sell in all markets.
Production and harvesting • Production costs include seed, fertiliser, pesticides, implements, tractors, fuel, labour, etc. • Marketing/retailing costs include transport, advertising and storage. To cut back on costs from a long marketing chain – you can use a shorter route by selling directly to the customer yourself. • Storage and packaging – costs include grading, packing material (e.g. boxes, bubble wrap, plastic, string, labels etc.), labour, storage, insurance, etc. Another way of adding value is by packaging and storage until the prices are more favourable or when the demand for the product will be greater e.g. in winter or when there is a shortage.
Conclusion: • Market conditions will change from year to year. Whether you’re selling a few items off your roadside stall or are drawn into a huge supply chain, one thing never changes – and that is quality! • Aim to produce the best possible product and your marketing efforts will be rewarded. Successful marketing is one of the most important aspects of a modern farm business. See also the Supply Chain Management chapter
6. Some marketing options Marketing opportunities for emerging farmers are limited. Generations of concentration on the needs of commercial farmers have led to a neglect of the needs of small-scale farmers. The following marketing options exist for the emerging producer: • Market directly from their gardens to the surrounding communities. • Supply hawkers who visit them with their bakkies for on-selling in the local town or city. • Supply to processing units e.g. mills abattoirs, dairies, fruit packhouses, etc. This is a type of contract production and is normally limited to larger emergent commercial units and to emergent irrigation schemes that would market their product collectively. • Supply to various retail outlets, such as the Spar Group, that buy directly from emergent farmers from time to time. Pick ‘n Pay has instituted a programme to support the emergent sector. • Sell through farm or market stalls (road stalls) in urban, peri-urban and rural areas. • Sell into contract markets, such as government feeding programmes, schools, hospitals, retail contracts, hotels, restaurants and tourism outlets. The government is particularly supportive here. The extension officer is ideally situated to broker these contracts on behalf of groups of farmers who may lack the confidence and expertise to do so. Add value to their own produce, and then market products through the various marketing channels mentioned above. The following are some of the value adding activities which farmers could carry out: • Fruit – graded, prepacked, dried, semi-packed. • Meat – cooked, cuts, dried (biltong). • Eggs – graded and packaged. • Broilers – slaughtered before selling. • Vegetables – graded, packaged and transported to market, and/or dried semi-prepared, bottled. • Bananas – graded, packaged in special ripening rooms, chips, dried • Litchis – Graded and packaged for local and export market, juiced • Maize/Grains – milled, bagged, stored; beer, bakeries. • Milk – dairies, yoghurt, sour milk, cheese (see page 640). • Wool – sheared, graded and baled. • Potatoes and Onions – bagged, transported to markets, crisps, snacks. • Supply exporters directly. Large exporting concerns are often eager to work with organised communities. The communities are generally involved in some form of out-grower scheme, such as the macadamia nut project in Northern KwaZulu-Natal. The community will need the extension officer to broker this for them as well, and it might be an idea to involve subject matter specialists from the Department of Agriculture or organised producer associations to support them. By matching the requirements of the traditional marketing channels in terms of quality and quantity, they can market through the existing marketing chains e.g. National fresh produce markets, livestock auctions, wool auctions, etc.
7. The main marketing channels Farm Gate Marketing As the name implies, this is marketing done by the farmer at the place where the product is produced. Examples include the sale of vegetables from a community garden, the sale of broilers from a broiler unit and the sale of animals from the farm directly. There is generally no limit to the type of product that may be marketed in this manner, as long as there are willing buyers. Advantages: • No transport costs. • Can be sold by the farmer himself, thus costs are reduced, although prices realised may be lower. • Better suited to the smallerscale farmer.
Disadvantages: • The farmer will have to accept the local price for his product. • The farmer will not necessarily be well located to sell the product.
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Farm gate marketing is the most common form of marketing found amongst smaller producers. Maize, beans, vegetables, fruit, poultry and livestock are concerned. However, once the local market’s demand is supplied, the farmer has to look to more distant markets.
Village Marketing This channel provides a development on marketing from the farm, as it goes some way towards taking the product to the consumer. At its most elementary level, a farm stall may be operated by farmers selling their own products, progressing through to individual stallholders selling on behalf of local farmers. Generally the type of product that would be marketed on a farm stall would be perishable, such as fruit and vegetables, although processed foods such as pickles, jams and cooked mielies are also suited to this type of marketing.
Advantages: • Larger markets can be exploited. • Farmers can take advantage of more favourable prices. • Price fluctuations are generally small.
Disadvantages: • Transport of the products may pose difficulties. • The quality of the produce may have to be higher to cater for the needs of the more discerning consumers. • A constant supply of produce must be available to satisfy the needs of the market. • Flexibility on pricing of produce is needed.
Fresh Produce Markets Refer also to the Fresh Produce Markets chapter in the Directory. These markets are set up in larger centres mainly for the sale of fruit and vegetables. They have traditionally catered for the commercial producer, and in turn supply the larger urban centres. The system on most markets has changed from auctioning to sales by market agents on commission. With this system, the farmer sends his produce to the agent at the market, who endeavours to obtain the highest price for him. Advantages:
Disadvantages:
• Farmers can take advantage of Market information is important higher prices in times of short to enable the farmer to make the supply, if they have produce right decisions. available. • The market is able to sell • Prices fluctuate. large quantities of farmers’ • Markets are often far from the produce. point of production. • The farmer can employ the • The time of harvesting is services of an agent to perform critical to the success of the the task of marketing. crop, in terms of realising the right price. • Quality, packaging and presentation are very important and produce must conform to accepted grade and packaging standards. • The farmer will need to be confident that he can cover the higher marketing costs, including the agent’s commission.
Stock Sales The sale of livestock in the developing areas has been encouraged for many years. There are a number of sale yards. Some of these provide a marketing service to emerging farmers as well to commercial farmers. Auction sales are held regularly at many of them. The seller may decide whether or not to accept the price offered by the buyer. The prices received on stock sales are not fixed and to a large extent reflect the supply and demand position both locally and within the entire market.
Advantages: • The promotion is done on behalf of the farmer. • Payment by buyer is guaranteed. • The market is larger than the local market. • Small-scale farmers have access to these sales.
Disadvantages: • The seller may not get the price that he wants for the animal. • Prices may be lower than “market” price.
Direct Marketing With director or contract marketing, the farmer sells directly to the retailer. Agreements are often concluded between large producers of perishable goods and large retailers e.g. Woolworths or Pick ‘n Pay stores. These retailers are often fairly flexible in their volume and supply demands to ensure good publicity as supporters of emerging farmers, but they will not compromise on quality. Some Black Empowerment companies have secured large government kitchen contracts (e.g. Department of Correctional Services) for themselves and prefer buying contractually from the emergent sector for political reasons. The extension officer needs to be aware of such contracts by staying in touch with the Local Government Tender Board.
Advantages: • Marketing margins could be reduced and thus the producer could obtain a higher price for the product. • The volume of sales is guaranteed to the farmer.
Disadvantages: • The farmer must ensure that he has sufficient produce of acceptable quality to supply the customer/retailer at all times. • The quality of the produce must be high at all times. • If the farmer cannot meet the needs of the retailer, he will have to buy in produce to make up the order of quantities required.
Communal Marketing Farmers may choose to market collectively. A farmers’ Association may get together and jointly market their crop on a formal market, such as to be found in most of the rural towns.
8. Marketing/supply chain costs The sequence of stages involved in transferring produce from the farm to the consumer is generally referred to as the marketing chain. All transfers involve marketing activities in some or other form, and all activities involve costs, which are: • Product Preparation and Packaging Costs. The harvesting of produce and the movement of produce to the farm gate or packing shed is part of the production costs. The second cost to be encountered is all costs associated with packaging. • Handling Costs. At all stages in the marketing chain, produce will have to be packed and unpacked, loaded and unloaded, put into store and taken out again. The sum total of all such handling costs can be significant. • Transport Costs. This transport cost could be anything from produce transported on the back of a donkey to trucks, bakkies, taxis, trains, aircraft and ships. • Produce Losses. Losses are common with agricultural produce marketing, even if nothing is actually thrown away, products may lose weight in storage and transit. The treatment of losses in marketing cost calculations can be fairly complex. Produce which is bought but not sold can still incur costs such as packaging, storage and transport. If there are no quantity losses there can still be quality losses, and this is reflected in the price at which produce is sold. • Storage Costs. The main purpose of storage is to extend the availability of produce over a longer period than if it were sold immediately after harvest. Such costs will vary depending on the costs of building and operating the store, but also on the capital used to purchase the produce which is stored.
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• Processing Costs. This is an important marketing cost. Grains such as maize and wheat have to be milled. In working out total marketing costs, we need to consider the conversion factor from unmilled to milled grain, as well as the value of any by-products. Processing costs can vary according to the efficiency of the organisation doing the processing, the processing facility’s throughput and the frequency of its operation. It will also vary according to the organisation’s costs, which depend on factors such as fuel costs, depreciation costs, import duties, taxes and wages. • Capital Costs: to operate, a trader may have to borrow money from a bank. The interest he pays on that money is a cost. If a trader uses his own money, he has to consider the lack of interest he could have received, a cost economists refer to as “opportunity cost”. • Fees and Commissions: The costs considered from 1 to 7 above are the major costs in marketing agricultural produce. There are many others and people involved with measuring costs need to keep all of them in mind. For example, people using National Fresh Produce Markets, have to pay agents fees.
9. Supermarkets in Africa • Economic growth in Africa has seen growing consumer demand, giving rise to a supermarket revolution, predominantly in eastern and southern Africa. These supermarkets are built close to affluent consumers in and around major cities. • To survive in Africa, farmers must learn to work with supermarket logistics and buying systems. • Farmers must pay attention to the new demands supermarkets are placing on them and realise they are competing on an international basis. Supermarkets expect farmers to deliver produce washed and sometimes packed to their specifications, and if they can find a cheaper supplier they will use that supplier, no matter where in the world the supply comes from. • Larger supermarkets and chain fresh produce outlets prefer to sign contracts with larger, established producers demanding timely delivery of quality products and on an ongoing and sustainable supply. Small farmers could be squeezed out of this market unless African governments support them to achieve the necessary economies of scale. Recommended solutions: • Have the right person on the farm. • Lobby government to fund and support infrastructure such as packaging and transport facilities in rural areas. • Train smallholder farmers in various areas of production, marketing, financing and so on. It is foolish and unfair to place an untrained and inexperienced person on a farm and expect quality produce for supermarkets within 12 months. • Supermarkets and buyers of fresh produce should consider adapting their procurement strategies to accommodate the smallholder farmer. • Establish trust among the stakeholders in the food supply chain. • Establish co-operatives with central grading, packaging or marketing venues for 10 or more smallholders. Provide cold storage and refrigerated trucks for transporting produce to markets. • Disseminate information about prices and markets to smallholder farmers so they can make informed decisions. Source: Farmer’s Weekly, 5 October 2007 in which Profs Nic Vink and André Louw discuss supermarkets.
In 2009, attention went to the supermarkets when retail prices increased more rapidly than farm gate prices, despite interest rates being slashed and fuel prices coming down. There was also no concomitant drop in prices when producer prices fell. The Competition Commission, aware that food is a high-priority sector, announced its intentions to probe retailers. The supermarkets denied wrongdoing and promised to co-operate in any investigations. Going into 2010 the investigation continues.
10. Commercial farmer notes Many South African farmers could radically improve the financial success of their businesses by compiling a sound marketing plan upfront. Failing to plan a marketing strategy is often the single biggest oversight South African farmers make, but producing a crop only to find that it can’t be disposed of profitably, can be easily avoided. The critical first step is for farmers to establish their production and marketing costs, factoring in expected prices at a certain time of the year and their key target markets. Key elements of a marketing plan farmers are advised to consider prior to any production are listed below. They should: • understand their customer-base, strengths and competition; • optimise and enjoy the success of producing good quality crops by first establishing whether there is sufficient need or desire for their product or service. If not, there won’t be a steady stream of customers; • first establish how the product will be marketed – a thorough understanding of the target market is essential (also establish what drives buying decisions); • remember, the plan must reflect the current market, potential and existing customers, competitors, market penetration tactics and importantly, the farmer’s competitive advantage; • remember too that an innovative marketing plan positions a product or service in the minds of potential customers and typically integrate multiple mediums and/or promotional strategies to reach the market. Then it comes down to writing up a plan. When compiling this, a farmer should: • Write about the current market. Describe the industry you are operating in, the market conditions that influence your business and the business opportunities and threats. • New products must always include market research. Also, an analysis of existing customers is essential – who they are, their purchasing habits and buying cycles. By acquiring a thorough knowledge of your target market you will learn to relate to your customers better – and they to your product. • Once you’ve identified and researched the market, the strategy for reaching the market and distributing the product is crucial. A viable method for reaching the market at an appropriate price level is something that potential lenders will scrutinise. • The marketing strategies and successes of competitors must be interrogated. Ask who’s doing well and who’s struggling – and if/why they are growing or scaling back. Understanding competitors’ strengths and weaknesses is critical in establishing competitive advantage. You must be able to justify that there is room for another player in the market. • It’s important to identify competitors’ whereabouts and locations, revenues, length of time in the industry, target market and market share. • Define how your operation differs from your competitors. What do they do well? Is there room for improvement? In what ways is your business superior to the competition? Remember: competitor analysis should be an ongoing practice! The next step is to compile a production plan outlining in detail what will be produced and the resources required. The key elements of this are: • Land, buildings and facilities – a precise description of the land and buildings that will be used for the farming business. For example, for a certain crop, the type and depth of the soil, the clay percentage and water availability must be specified. Farmers who intend leasing land should be mentioned. • Equipment – each tool that will be used must be named, e.g. tractors, implements, trucks and other vehicles. Other equipment, such as computers, printers, office equipment, hand tools and irrigation equipment should also be included. Buildings, facilities and equipment are normally depreciable assets. Having them listed in a business plan can be helpful when you have to do your tax returns.
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• Materials and supplies include materials and supplies needed for the daily running of the operation, such as feed, fertilisers, soil amendments, fuel and oil, other consumables and materials necessary for maintenance and repairs. It is important to capture as many expected expenses as possible. Other essential aspects include: • Production strategies relate to production methods, and should include projected schedules. Questions around whether to plough or do ‘no till’ farming, when and how the produce will be sent to market, how production will be expanded over time, and when optimum size and production have been reached should be answered here. • Construction and production schedules – once a farmer has a stable vision of the operations needed, then short and long term construction and production plans can be considered. Plan for routine weeding and fertilising. Experience has shown that it is helpful to have these events scheduled. And also to have an idea of when new irrigation systems will need to be erected, and the scheduling of crop rotations. Having a plan for these will assist in controlling budgeting and costs. • An environmental assessment plan that emphasises stewardship for the environment. Vital components to consider are: uses for runoff water, quality assurance, pastures and stream protection run offs and, in some instances, soil erosion. The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries can provide useful information in this regard. • Political and legal aspects of production – consider stipulations as well as other laws that could impact production.
The marketing and production plan component of the business plan helps establish the framework for tracking cash flow, growth and overall profitability. In the end, it is what is produced and marketed that generates income for a farm business and time is needed to think through the details of this part of the business plan to ensure the overall success of the business. Source: Compiled by Magna Carta Public Relations for Standard Bank. Contact 011 636 4978
Source: The Agricultural Marketing Extension papers on www.daff.gov. za and acknowledgements where they appear in this chapter.
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Marketing and finance Providers of financial services 1. Banks See separate Banks chapter
2. State-owned development banks and agencies See the “Finances” heading in the Co-operatives chapter. Here we mention only two – the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and Khula. See heading 3 following for details of the province-specific Investment Promotion Agencies. Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Tel: 0860 693 888 www.idc.co.za This finance is for entrepreneurs in the agricultural, food, beverage and marine sectors wanting to expand and develop their businesses. The minimum financing is R1 million. An economically viable business plan must be submitted. Medium term finance takes the form of loans, suspensive sales, equity and quasi-equity in order to: • establish permanent infrastructure in the agricultural sector and aquaculture; • establish new or expand existing undertakings in the food and beverages sector. Bridging finance is also available from the IDC i.e. finance for entrepreneurs who have secured firm contracts – except for construction contracts – with government and/or the private sector and who have short-term financing needs, and/or guarantees such as performance, suppliers, etc. Minimum financing is R500 000.00. The following categories (especially) apply: • Entrepreneurs who have been awarded tenders by government. • Entrepreneurs who have secured contracts for providing services/ products to established big, blue chip companies. • Entrepreneurs with an annual turnover greater than R1 million. Finance is short-term, for a maximum period of 18 months. Khula Enterprise Finance Ltd • • • • • • • • • • •
Bloemfontein – 051 444 1040 / 0860 548 522 Cape Town – 021 671 9056 / 0860 548 521 Durban – 031 301 1916 / 0860 548 526 East London – 043 726 0756 / 0860 548 527 Kimberley – 053 832 2275 / 0860 548 528 Johannesburg – 011 838 7638 / 0860 548 529 Nelspruit – 013 755 2370 / 0860 548 520 Polokwane – 015 294 0901 / 0860 254 852 Port Elizabeth – 041 363 2570 / 0860 354 852 Rustenburg – 014 592 6391 / 0860 454 852 Tshwane – 012 324 8236 / 0860 554 852
Find the “Finances for agricultural businesses” option at www.khula.org.za
3. Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) and other province-specific role-players Invest North West Tel: 014 594 2570 www.inw.org.za Invest North West is the official Investment Promotion Agency (IPA) for the North West Provincial Government and its founding purpose is to promote trade and fixed direct investment, create employment for the people of the North West Province and attract new and sustainable businesses by the deployment of grant-in-aid funds from the public sector and others. Mpumalanga Agricultural Development Corporation (MADC) Tel: 013 755 6328 www.madc.co.za The “Leading agricultural finance and business development organisation”. Contact details for farmer service points throughout the province are available on the website. Also find the “Loan application” menu option on the website, which takes you through all the steps in the process. MADC products include: • Seasonal loans – helps farmers to pay for production inputs • Business loans – helps farmers with new ventures or to improve the existing farm (assets, stock and working capital_ • Revolving credit facility – aimed at existing business persons who seek financing to trade in the agricultural sector (includes livestock speculation and other re-selling opportunities) The Mpumalanga Agricultural Development Corporation (MADC), the Mpumalanga Housing Finance Company (MHFC) and the Mpumalanga Economic Growth Agency (MEGA) are to be merged to accelerate enterprise development, infrastructure delivery and jobs.
Other Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) Tel: 043 704 5600 www.ecdc.co.za
Limpopo Business Support Agency (LIBSA) Tel: 015 297 6473 www.libsa.org
Northern Cape Economic Development Agency Tel: 053 833 1503 www.nceda.co.za
Mpumalanga Economic Growth Agency (MEGA) Tel: 013 752 2440 www.mega.gov.za
Free State Development Corporation Tel: 051 400 0800 www.fdc.co.za
Trade and Investment Limpopo Tel: 015 295 5171 www.til.co.za
Free State Investment Promotion Agency Tel: 051 410 0885
Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal Tel: 031 368 9600 www.tikzn.co.za
Gauteng (GEDA) Tel: 011 833 8751 www.geda.co.za
Western Cape (WESGRO) Tel: 021 487 8600 www.wesgro.org.za
4. Agribusinesses See the Agribusiness chapter. Companies like GWK, Kaap Agri, Senwes and Suidwes offer credit, insurance and other financial services.
5. Companies Find the “Finance and administration” heading in the Agricultural Consultants chapter, and the separate chapters on banks and agribusinesses
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Numerous companies exist which offer financial services. Santam Agri is one example (see Risk Management and Insurance chapter). Below are two more: PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) Tel: 023 346 5502 www.pwc.za.com Specialist services include: • • • • • • • •
accounting services tax services transaction support risk management services entrepreneurial advice services internal audit services management control mergers and acquisitions
Find out about Phatisa (see advert below).
6. Co-operatives See the Co-operatives chapter
7. African Agriculture Fund (AAF) The African Development Bank (ADB), Agence Française de Développement (AFD),the Kofi Annan Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), Banque Ouest Africaine de Développement (BOAD) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) launched the African Agriculture Fund (AAF) initiative, in April 2009. The AAF will raise 200 million euros during its first phase and has a final target closing of 500 million euros. Phatisa Group Limited (Phatisa) has been appointed as the fund manager of the AAF. The Fund aims to support private sector companies that implement strategies to increase and diversify food production and distribution in Africa by strengthening the management, modernisation and organisation of agricultural sector on the continent. AAF will invest in agro-industrial companies, and agricultural cooperatives that support small-scale farmers and respect the environment. If you would like more information or indicate your interest, please do not hesitate to contact Duncan Owen on
[email protected]. Visit www.phatisa.com for more information about the company itself.
8. Other roleplayers Refer to the “Development financial services” chapter for information on credit guarantees and roleplayers, other financial organistions, and contact details of Enterprise Information Centres. Credit OMBUD Tel: 0861 662 837 www.creditombud.org.za EMVEST Tel: 012 482 6860 www.emvest.com FAIS OMBUD Tel: 012 470 9080 www.faisombud.co.za The FAIS Ombud was created in terms of the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act 2002 (Act No. 37 of 2002) (FAIS Act). The function of the FAIS Ombud is to resolve disputes relating to the rendering of financial services by providers Financial Services Board (FSB) Tel: 012 347 0221 www.fsb.co.za The FSB oversees the country’s non-banking financial services industry National Credit Regulator (NCR) Tel: 0860 100 406 www.ncr.org.za NB Only credit grantors that are registered with the National Credit Regulator (NCR) may grant credit. Visit www.ncr.org.za for more information
Newfarmers Development Co Ltd Tel: 021 970 5140 Southern African Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (SAVCA) Tel: 011 268 0041
[email protected] www.savca.co.za For businesses wondering where to find capital to expand their business? SAVCA provides a comprehensive and well-structured directory which lists the details and investing preferences of all members and associated members of the association.
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Marketing and finance Risk management and insurance 1. Overview Agriculture today, and specifically farming, is a business faced with many risks. Issues such as climate change, skills shortage and the growth in the financial markets in terms of commodity products have increased the risks these businesses face. Even though agricultural businesses have more tools available to manage and mitigate risks, this has increased the complexity of risk decision-making. The winners of tomorrow will be the farmers and agri businesses that are able to manage the risks inherent to their farming systems at a reasonable cost. The result of effective risk management practices in agriculture will have some significant benefits for society as a whole such as: • ensure food security and stability of prices; • result in a stable and profitable commercial farmer base to ensure that agriculture is able to provide in the food requirements of the future; • assist in achieving long-term sustainability of the environment; • reduce the negative effects of natural disasters (floods, droughts etc) on humans and the environment; • reduce the need for taxpayer funded emergency aid packages; • create jobs and sustainable employment; and • improve the stability of farmer incomes and hence expenditure on farm inputs. The result is economic stability in rural economies.
2. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF The Disaster Management Act of 2002 applies. Where the particular nature of drought conditions, veld fires etc cannot be declared disasters under this act, relief can be provided in the form of a “specific measure”. Directorate: Agricultural Disaster Management Tel: 012 319 7955
[email protected] This directorate: • manages, develops and implements government policy, legislation and prescripts in respect of risk and disaster management in the agricultural sector; • prepares a strategic plan for agricultural risk and disaster management; • assists and supports provincial and local governments to manage agricultural risks and disasters. It is of importance for farmers to receive early warning information to enable them to plan ahead. The Department of Agriculture established the National Agrometeorological Committee (NAC) in 2002. Its mandate is to compile and Issue Early Warning Information as one of the tools to address the risk and disaster in the agricultural sector. An NAC Advisory is compiled, and issued on the 15th of every month. Format: • • • •
Seasonal Forecast Current conditions from NDVI and rainfall maps from the SAWS Farming Status in the Provinces and in the SADC region Advisory of Strategies that the farming community might employ
The climate advisories can be found on the Agricultural Geo-Referenced Information System (AGIS) website–www.agis.agric.za
Directorate: Land Use and Soil Management Tel: 012 319 7685 Details of provincial LUSM offices can be found in the Soils chapter. Two depots at De Aar and Upington store apparatus and insecticides to distribute to areas invaded by locusts. Landowners are required to report the occurrence of locusts. De Aar: Gert Greyvenstein Tel: 053 631 3621 Kiewiet Viljoen Tel: 053 631 3621
Upington: Dirk Steenkamp William Makoba Tel: 054 334 0171
3. Associations involved Actuarial Society of South Africa Tel: 021 509 7697 www.actuarialsociety.org.za
Institute of Retirement Funds of South Africa (IRF) Tel: 011 369 0160 www.irf.org.za
Association for Savings & Investment SA Tel: 011 669 4900 www.aci.co.za
The Life Offices’ Association (LOA) Tel: 021 421 2586
[email protected]
A unit trust enables you to pool The Life Offices’ Association (LOA) your money with other investors is the representative body for the who have similar investment life insurance industry. objectives. The LAO also acts as a watchdog Financial Intermediaries for the industry and sets certain Association of Southern Africa standards to which all member Tel: 012 665 0085 offices must adhere. www.ibcsa.org.za The Ombudsman A merger between the Insurance Brokers Council of South Africa The life insurance ombudsman is (IBC) and the South African an independent body to whom Financial Services Intermediaries one may direct any complaint Association (SAFSIA) about a life insurance company, a representative or a life insurance Financial Planning Institute of product. Southern Africa (FPI) Tel: 011 470 6000 The Ombudsman for Short-Term www.fpi.co.za Insurance Tel: 011 726 8900 Serving both the financial services www.osti.co.za industry and its clients, the FPI provides an independent quality This is an independent body and assurance process, ensuring that the services are provided free to appropriate educational standards the public. The ombudsman may are maintained for financial advisers be able to assist you if your insurer and planners, and ensures ethical refuses to pay e.g. for damage and practice standards. to your vehicle. The service is free to insured consumers. You Financial Services Board must complain to the insurance Tel: 012 428 8000 company first, and only if you are www.fsb.co.za unable to resolve the dispute with your insurers, then you can refer The Financial Services Board is the matter to their offices. a unique independent institution established by statute to oversee For more details on matters with the South African Non-Banking which their office can assist, find Financial Services Industry in the the “Common Problems” menu public interest. Find the “Insurance” option at www.osti.co.za. option on the website. The Ombudsman for long-term Institute of Life and Pension insurance Advisors of Southern Africa Tel: 021 657 5000 (ILPA) www.ombud.co.za Tel: 011 475 1149
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South African Financial Services Intermediaries Association (SAFSIA) Tel: 012 665 0085 www.fia.org.za SAFSIA represents both shortterm, long-term and employee benefits insurance intermediaries (e.g. Financial Planners).
South African Insurance Association (SAIA) Tel: 011 726 5381 www.saia.co.za SAIA promotes the short-term insurance industry in order to create awareness and understanding of the industry and to add value to all stakeholders.
4. Companies involved ABSA Insurance Company Ltd Tel: 011 330 2111 www.absa.co.za ABSA Life Ltd Tel: 011 350 4000 African Rand Tel: 011 678 1354 www.africanrand.co.za
Mutual and Federal Insurance Company Ltd Tel: 012 400 8100 www.mf.co.za Old Mutual Life Assurance Company Ltd Tel: 021 509 9111 www.oldmutual.co.za
PricewaterhouseCoopers Agri Industry Group National office – 023 346 5502 KwaZulu-Natal – 031 271 2000 Central Region – 051 503 4100 Your regional agribusiness Northern Region – 013 754 3300 offers short term insurance, crop Eastern Region – 041 391 4400 insurance, credit life insurance etc. www.pwc.com/za Find out what is on offer. Suidwes Sanlam Life Insurance Ltd Ltd contacts for insurance are: Tel: 021 947 9111 • Leeudoringstad 018 581 1000
[email protected] www.sanlam.co.za • Bothaville 056 515 1094 • Christiana 053 441 2202 Santam Agriculture • Schweizer-Reneke 053 963 Tel: 012 369 1202 1161 Fax: 086 656 9117 • Vryburg 053 927 2421
[email protected] • Wolmaransstad 018 596 2320 www.santam.co.za
EnviroMon Tel: 021 851 5134 www.enviromon.co.za
Coface South Africa Tel: 011 208 2500 www.cofaceza.com
Lombard Insurance Group Tel: 011 551 0600 www.lombardins.com
Credit Guarantee Tel: 011 889 7000 www.creditguarantee.co.za
Prestige Credit Insurance Consultants Tel: 011 805 8958 www.prestigecredit.co.za
5. Training and research
Agricola Tel: 011 288 0300 www.agricolasa.co.za
Boshoff Visser Tel: 028 722 8049 www.boshoffvisser.co.za
Credit Insurance insures you against bad debt. The following are roleplayers:
Asset and crop insurance in the Agricultural Industry. Find Agricultural Insurance under the “products and services” menu option on the website.
Standard Bank Tel: 011 858 5135/6 A variety of weather services are
[email protected] provided e.g. weather forecasts, www.standardbank.co.za climate related disease warnings, meteorological consultation. Finance and farmers (4th edition) covers the following: Production Garrun Group Risk and analysis; Marketing risk Tel: 011 694 5000 and planning; Financial risk and www.garrun-group.co.za management; Institutional risk; Human and personal risk. These HOTSURE topics are also frequently covered Tel: 0861 COLLAR in their AgriReview quarterlies. www.hotsure.co.za T&E FinOps Web based GIS monitor and Tel: 012 440 6660 command: monitor and track
[email protected] livestock, vehicles, containers. Previously known for the Agri Huis van Oranje Groep Securitas Trauma Insurance, it Tel: 0860 104 297 has now diversified to a one stop www.hvo.co.za financial service. Land Bank Insurance Company Tel: 0861 00 5242 Tel: 083 232 6272 www.lbic.co.za
Continuous research into the predictability of critical agricultural parameters such as the onset, distribution and cessation of rainfall, as well as the frequency of dry spells and wet spells in the rainy season is a pressing need because these parameters directly affect agricultural yields and any prior information about their variations during the season ahead will allow farmers to plan their operations effectively, as well as minimise the impact of adverse conditions. Research into the improvement of crop cultivars, possibilities of genetic modification of crops, market trends, population growth and spending patters can all assist in improving the efficiency and productivity of agriculture as a sector. Ongoing education of farmers has become critical in order to remain at the forefront of changes in agriculture due to the rapid growth of technology driven by the drive to maximise the return of farming operations. The development of new crop cultivars, chemicals and pesticides, precision farming and more efficient farming equipment can greatly enhance the output of a farming operation and owners and management need to be educated in order to benefit from these developments. ICOSAMP – The Information Core for Southern African Migrant Pests Tel. 012 356 9800 (ICOSAMP Coordinator)
[email protected] http://icosamp.ecoport.org Migrant pests such as locusts, armyworm, and Quelea birds, annually plague the southern African region, and in some years have been known to cause devastating damage to food crops within member countries of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). As these pests are highly mobile and often cross political boundaries, communication and collaboration between neighbouring countries is vital with respect to forecasting, monitoring, and controlling these outbreaks.
Inseta is the Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) for the insurance, risk management, reinsurance, pension funding etc industry. Visit www.inseta.org.za or call 011 544 2000. Institute of Risk Management South Africa Tel: 011 234 5898 www.irmsa.org.za Insurance Institute of SA Tel: 011 834 6061 www.iisa.co.za University of the Free State Department of Agricultural Economics Tel: 051 401 2250
[email protected]
Disaster Management, Training and Education Centre for Africa (DIMTEC) ICOSAMP, endorsed by SADC and Tel: 051 401 2721 funded by the UK Department for Fax: 051 401 9336
[email protected] International Development, has established a regional network of A department in the faculty information officers who submit of Natural and Agricultural monthly reports on the status of Sciences, with the biggest Masters migrant pests in their country to Degree Programme in Disaster the ICOSAMP co-ordinator. Since Management in Africa. its inception in 2000, ICOSAMP has issued regular monthly Bulletins and GIS (Geographical Information System) maps.
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6. Primary sources of risk in farming Although the risks provided below have been separated into varying categories, to assist in the risk identification and management thereof, these risks are not independent. Indeed some of the larger impacts on farming businesses are due to the interaction of the risks. Farmers should therefore approach risk management from a holistic viewpoint and should carefully consider the impact of even improbable risks. Production risk. Production risk is defined as the overall uncertainty regarding production. Production risk includes contributing risks such as changes in the weather, crop performance, incidence of pests and diseases and machine efficiency. Currently the observed changes in the global climate are posing numerous and potentially significant risks to the production of crops, particularly those associated with water availability and quality as well as rising temperatures. Price risk. Price risk results from the unpredictable and competitive nature of the prices of both farming inputs and outputs. Changing prices of products can be observed on formal markets such as the various commodity and futures exchanges, physical markets where buyers and sellers meet or by way of the transactions between individual parties.
7. Factors farmers should consider before attempting to manage risk The degree to which various types of risk are managed will depend on many factors. Farmers will need to consider the following in determining the appropriate course(s) of action necessary with regard to dealing with risk: • own personal appetite for risk; • the likelihood and impact of any potential risks within the particular business; • the strategies or processes available to manage or mitigate the risk; • the cost of mitigating or managing the risks; and • the consequences of not managing the risk. What options could be considered to manage and/ mitigate the Risk? Risk Management Strategies can be classified along the following lines: Avoidance or acceptance strategies • avoiding/terminating activity giving rise to exposure or intolerable risk • accepting risk where exposure is within the risk appetite
In respect of the prices of farming inputs farmers are largely price “takers”, i.e. they have very little or no influence on the prices they pay and there are few risk management tools or instruments available to manage the risk.
Diversification strategies • treating, reducing or mitigation through improvements to the control environment and the management processes • exploiting risk where exposure is a potential missed or unrealised opportunity
For certain crops and products there exist several financial instruments and products whereby the farmer can effect price risk management. But for some the price risk associated with farming outputs can often only be managed to some extent through an effective marketing strategy. Certain producers can be price “takers” for outputs as well, e.g. milk producers.
Risk sharing strategies • sharing of risk between parties and stakeholders • transferring risk to a third party (outsourcing /insuring) • integrating a series of risk responses through combination of responses
Political risk. Changes in government or to government policies relating to matters such as land reform, employment targets, subsidies, animal welfare, food and safety are often uncertain and may have a large impact on farmers. Funding and funding liquidity risk. A successful farming business has implemented a well thought through funding plan. Farming businesses can be exposed to cyclical cash flow patterns. Therefore, managing the funding risk of the farming business is crucial. The recent crisis has taught us that any business needs to plan its operational cash-flow and investments properly and put in place a funding plan that provides some comfort on the availability of the funds at the crucial times. Where substantial funding is required this should be secured well-ahead of time, so that the lack of available funding does not negatively impact the business. Currency risk. The appreciation or depreciation of the South African Rand affects both import and export demand and domestic prices for competitively traded inputs and outputs. Currency risk can also have a significant impact on price risk, particularly where prices of inputs or outputs are referenced against a foreign currency, e.g. the price of maize in US$. Legal risk. A large number of farming activities have legal implications. Legal risk is inherent in contractual agreements and is always present in the form of environmental liabilities, food safety liabilities, etc. Personal risk. Personal risks are those risks relating to the people who are involved with the actual management of the farm. They include farm safety, divorce, illness and death.
8. Risk sharing strategies 8.1 Avoidance or acceptance strategies Avoidance and acceptance strategies should be based on the impact and likelihood of the risk. Below are some examples: • Planting a crop in an area not suited to its production is avoided because the likelihood of an inferior crop is very high. • Planting below the 1 in a 100 year floodline may be an acceptable risk owing to the likelihood of a flood being low. It is important to conduct a thorough analysis of the risk that is being accepted to completely understand the impact of such a risk should it occur, including negative financial consequences which may jeopardise the survival of the farming operation and its impact on cash flow and fund availability.
8.2 Diversification strategies Crop diversification By broadening the variety of crops under consideration and selecting crops which behave differently in various financial and environmental conditions, farmers can successfully reduce overall risk. In addition mixed farming operations can also be practiced, e.g. combining crops with livestock, tourism, etc. Flexibility Flexibility is of vital importance when confronted by an ever-changing environment. Farmers should remain as flexible as possible and can do so by growing crops with short production cycles and storing a portion of a harvest so that sales can be made throughout the year at favourable prices. The latter of these options allows farmers to take advantage of price increases but also exposes them to price decreases, but financial instruments are available to hedge farmers against these risks, if appropriate.
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8.3 Risk sharing strategies
The use of an option contract is best shown by way of example:
Contracting
A grain farmer may elect to use an option contract in order to eliminate the risk of a low grain price in the market in the future. The farmer purchases a put option by paying a certain premium for the contract. The option entitles the farmer to sell a fixed amount of grain at a predetermined price in the future – the contract does not, however, obligate him to do so. When the option expires, the farmer will consider his choice to sell the grain relative to the market price for grain at that time.
Production Contracts A production contract entails a contractor supplying the necessary farming inputs, including finance, to a farmer, and the farmer delivering a specified quantity and quality of product to the contractor. The farmer is then compensated accordingly for goods and services provided. This form of contract is of obvious benefit to both parties. Contractors are entitled to a predetermined quantity and standard of commodity at some future date, while growers are guaranteed the required inputs and a fixed income stream (production contracts are often also referred to as “off-take” agreements). Marketing/ Derivative Contracts. Several variations of such contracts exist, including: • Forward Contracts are the most commonly used derivative product available, primarily because it is the most basic and easily understood. A forward contract gives the holder the right and full obligation to conduct a transaction involving an underlying commodity at a future date at a predetermined future price. In other words, an eventual buyer (known as the person assuming the long position) pays the contract price and receives the underlying commodity (grain, wheat etc), and the eventual seller (known as the person assuming the short position) delivers the underlying commodity at the set price. Essentially, a forward contract is a personalised trade agreement between two private parties to be executed at some future date at a predetermined price. A major disadvantage of a forward contract is that these types of contracts are often highly illiquid. This characteristic of a forward contract stems from the fact that it is usually very difficult to exit the contract prior to maturity. • Futures Contracts function in much the same way as a forward contract with one exception. Futures contracts are traded through a centralised market known as a futures exchange (e.g. the South African Futures Exchange (“Safex”)) and as a result are standardized in the terms of the agreement. In other words, the particulars of the contract (expiration date, amount of the underlying asset, price etc) are not personalized as in the case of the forward contract. The standardised nature of these contracts allow for far more liquidity than is the case with forward contracts. Currently the only soft commodities traded on Safex are white and yellow maize, wheat, sunflower seeds and soya beans. There are however derivative contracts on other financial instruments, e.g. on the Industrial share index of the Johannesburg Securities Exchange (“JSE”), on interest and exchange rates, etc. By use of these instruments the risks associated with interest and exchange rates can be effectively managed. • Futures contracts also require that both parties to the contract post collateral, commonly referred to as margin. Each contract has a specified amount of “initial” margin placed upon trading the derivative as well as “variation” margin reflecting the accrued profit or loss due to movements in the price of the derivative. These collateral amounts are necessary to protect individual parties in the event of default. • Option Contracts give the holder the right, but not the obligation, to purchase or sell an underlying commodity at a predetermined future price and date. Options can be traded on an exchange such as futures contracts discussed above or in informal markets, commonly referred to as Over-The-Couter (“OTC”) markets. The key distinction here is that the buyer or seller of the commodity in the future has the right to conduct the transaction, but is not obligated to do so. Two types of option contracts exist: - C all option w hich entitles the holder to the right to buy an underlying security; - Put option w hich entitles the holder to the right to sell an underlying security.
If the price of grain in the market is lower than the price agreed upon in the terms of the option contract, then the farmer will exercise his rights with regard to the contract. The farmer will elect to sell the grain at the higher price agreed upon in the contract since the market price is lower. If the price of grain in the market is higher than the price agreed upon in the terms of the option contract, then the farmer will waive his rights with regard to the contract. The farmer in this instance will choose to sell his commodity at a higher price in the market since the strike price agreed upon in the contract is lower. It should be noted that in the second scenario, where the farmer forfeits his right to exercise the contract, he/she loses the initial premium paid, and as such the option premium can be considered similar to an insurance premium as it provided the farmer with protection in case of the price reducing.
Crop insurance Insurance is a highly common risk management strategy. An insured person pays a premium to an insurance company at regular intervals and in return receives payment from the insurer if an insured loss occurs. Leasing Leasing inputs such as land and machinery provides producers with sufficient flexibility to respond to changing markets. It also decreases the capital required to expand operations, so reducing financial risk.
Equity finance Equity financing is an effective way of spreading risk. Equity investors in the agricultural operation receive a pro rata share of the returns of an investment, but also suffer proportionately in any losses.
Savings The use of a savings account is a constructive method of reducing income variability. By transferring income into an account during successful periods and withdrawing from it in difficult periods is a reliable means offsetting unexpected declines in farm income.
Liquidity Liquid assets are those assets that can be easily converted into cash. Ownership of such assets may be very useful in the event of emergencies. These assets provide a safety net for production disasters and poor market conditions. It is important to note that an appropriate balance is required between fixed assets and liquid assets, since fixed assets have the ability to generate higher profits. Our thanks to Albré Badenhorst, Financial Risk Services at PricewaterhouseCoopers, for rewriting much of the content of this chapter. Contact him at
[email protected]
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Marketing and finance Supply Chain Management 1. Overview The systems for providing food and other agricultural products to the final consumer has changed drastically over the last few years – and promises to change even more in times to come. The agricultural supply chain, once characterised by autonomy and independence, is rapidly evolving in to an interconnected system comprising varied and complex relationships between the different actors in the agricultural system. Three main trends are generally recognised in the food system: • the movement away form undifferentiated agricultural commodities towards more specialised products; • a movement away from open markets for raw agricultural products towards vertically co-ordinationed transactions; and • a movement towards agricultural industrialisation. The trends in agricultural markets can be attributed to four general ‘drivers of change’. • Deregulation of National and International Markets. Farmers and agribusiness have had to shoulder responsibilities in agricultural markets (like product distribution, quality and price control) that were previously fulfilled by government agencies. Deregulation also exposed South African farmers to increased competition from international firms. Co-operation with other firms in the agro-food complex to provide better products and services is proving to be one of the most popular strategies to deal with the international competition. • Changes in Consumer Demands. Consumers, and especially affluent consumers, are posing new demands in terms of the taste, health, safety and variety to the food and agricultural system. These quality requirements increasingly encompass the product itself and also the production process (e.g. organic products and animal welfare). These trends are especially important for firms that strive to service international markets since these markets require superior products and service. A co-ordinated effort by all the parties involved in delivering the product to the final consumer is required, since they all contribute to the quality of the product. • Changes in the Agricultural Supply Chain. The higher price risk in the agricultural environment partly due to deregulation is also a change driver. The uncertainty concerning the nature of food quality and problems in detecting quality contributes to these risks. Farmers and agribusiness are seeking mechanisms to share and reduce the risks associated with price and product uncertainty in the supply chain. • Advances in Technology. Technological advances have created new opportunities for change in essentially every part of the agro-food complex. The most interesting advance in this regard is the ability to accurately track and monitor production processes, which increases the responsibility and accountability of each firm’s contribution to the final product. It allows food processors or manufacturers to demand greater accuracy and precision in products they process or bring to the distribution system. Failure to comply can be traced back to the originator who must fix the problem quickly or lose the right to be an integral part of the system. The different actors in agricultural supply chains are abandoning their traditional competitive positions towards each other in favour of cooperation to compete more effectively. The emerging co-ordination and control mechanisms can be collectively referred to as Supply Chain Management.
Actors in a supply system, from the primary producer to the end-consumer, collaborate to better satisfy consumer wants and needs at lower costs. Order is brought to the system of producing, processing, and distributing food and agricultural products to consumers. Collaboration is given to the barriers that exist between each of the links in the supply chain. Supply Chain Management is an integration of these activities, through proven supply chain relationships, to achieve a sustainable competitive advantage. The supply chain encompasses the whole system to provide the desired product to the final consumer.
The benefits of Supply Chain Management Through co-operation and co-ordination of their activities firms are able to realise advantages across the supply chain. These benefits of successful supply chain management can be summarised as follows: • • • • • • •
reduced cost through specialisation improved synergistic performance increased information to support joint planning enhanced customer service reduced risk and uncertainty shared creativity improved competitive advantage
These advantages are realised when firms start to co-ordinate the flow of products throughout the supply chain. The traditional antagonistic roles of the sales and purchasing departments – to sell as high as possible and buy as low as possible – is abandoned in favour of co-operation and coordination. Source: excerpt from the article by Dr Tobias Doyer used in previous editions of this directory
2. Websites and publications • Commodity associations usually have material and studies relating to their chain e.g. Fruit SA/Fresh Produce Exporters Forum has a highly useful range of manuals on the Trade Chain. • The annual Supply Chain Intelligence Report (SCIR) 2009 is “an international, independent study on supply chain management and logistics practices in developing economies”. Contact TerraNova Research at 011 463 5713. • Find the recent articles at www.leisa.info. These include “Adding value to local livelihoods”. Farmers get better prices for products and more control over value chains when they join together and begin their own agro-enterprises. This is a study of 18 such agro-enterprises that have been formed since 2007 in Laos. A second article is “Do value chains help farmers out of poverty?” • Systems improvements and value-addition is identified as a priority area in the National Agricultural Research and Development Strategy document. Find it at www.daff.gov.za • Vorst J.G.A.J., C.A. da Silva, J.H.Trienekens, 2007, Agro-industrial supply chain management: concepts and applications, Agricultural Management, Marketing and Finance Occasional Paper (17), Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome 2007. • Ruben R., M. van Boekel, A. van Tilburg, J.Trienekens, 2007, Linking market integration, supply chain governance, quality and value added in tropical food chains, In: Ruben et al. (eds) Governance for Quality in Tropical Food Chains, Wageningen:Wageningen Acadamic Publishers.
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3. Useful Contacts Agricultural Business Chamber Tel: 012 807 6686 / 082 441 2308 www.agbiz.co.za
Industrial Logistic Systems Tel: 011 883 0407 www.ils.co.za
Buhler Group Tel: 011 801 3500 www.buhlergroup.com
The Institute of Purchasing and Supply South Africa (IPSA) Tel: 011 331 6650 www.ipsa.co.za
Global technology partner for food processing industry Find the international links on website Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport: South Africa National Agricultural (CILTSA) Marketing Council (NAMC) Tel: 011 789 7327 Tel: 012 341 1115 www.ciltsa.org.za www.namc.co.za Consumer Goods Council of South Africa (CGCSA) Tel: 0861 242 000 www.cgcsa.co.za DIGIVU DA Harcourt – 082 451 0148
[email protected] www.digivu.co.za
Find the notes on the Market and Economic Research Centre (MERC) on the website. SA Fresh Produce Traceability Project (SA FPTP) Gwynne Foster Tel: 082 578 4201
[email protected]
Agro-processing consultation, SA FPTP activities focus on supply advisory / information work chain facilitation, information projects and enabling smallFirst 4 farming scale agri-businesses to meet the Tel: 011 254 5426 / requirements for traceability and
[email protected] vital records. www.f4f.com
SAPICS - The Association for Stellenbosch University Operations Management in Centre for Supply Chain Southern Africa Management Tel: 011 023 6707 Department of Logistics www.sapics.org.za Tel: 021 808 3981 http://academic.sun.ac.za/CSCM Smart Procurement Tel: 0861 33 43 26 enquiries@smartprocurement. co.za www.smartprocurement.co.za This is a free on-line newsletter which contains procurement tools, tips, tactics, updates, jobs, news and events. It is shared with thousands of procurement professionals for free on a regular basis. In 2009, Government launched a hotline to speed up government payments to Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). Business enterprises experiencing late payments of more than 30 days can call the hotline number on 0860 766 3729 or fax their details to 012 452 0458 for assistance.
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Organised Agriculture and agri-services Agricultural consultants 1. General farming Agri-Africa Consultants
[email protected] www.agri-africa.co.za Consulting is done in agribusiness, financial and technical farm management; agricultural marketing; agricultural development; project design and management including black empowerment. Members: Eckart Kassier Tel: 021 886 6826 / 082 950 9294 Fax: 086 684 6143 / 086 670 7439
[email protected] Ingrid du Toit Tel: 012 667 1752 / 082 376 2086
[email protected]
Michael McCullough Tel: 076 532 5507
[email protected] John Allwood Tel: 043 642 2193 / 082 578 1816
[email protected]
Michael Cherry Tel: 021 856 1909 / 082 804 6759
[email protected] Associates: • Nick Vink (Stellenbosch University ) • Johann Kirsten (University of Pretoria) • Johan van Rooyen (University of Stellenbosch) • Peter Jacobusen (Dynamic Research) • Dewald Pretorius (Afrilema) Agri-Africa’s products and services: • feasibility and financial analysis • business and farm plans • Empowerment structuring and implementation • strategic and project management • Change Management • value adding
• agricultural trade and marketing and price analysis • product development • agricultural and land policy • rural development • monitoring and evaluation • Black Economic Empowerment. • consumer research
Agri-Africa also does training in all of the above subjects. Aginfo (Pty) Ltd (AMT) Tel: 012 361 2748 www.agrimark.co.za
Agri Inspec Tel: 012 12 843 5630 www.agriinspec.co.za
Accurate and timely information pertaining to agricultural markets, specialists in the field of marketing, international trade, policy analysis and development. The “Products” menu option on their website will give the reader an indication of the feasibility and other studies carried out by this group.
Agri Inspec is an investigation agency that renders monitoring services to agricultural and corporate industries, mainly to put a stop to illegal imports, trade and other import irregularities. AGRI LAND GROUP Tel: 012 345 3911 Fax: 012 345 3949
[email protected] www.agrilandgroup.co.za
AGRI LAND GROUP services EPA include: Bonile Jack Tel: 011 315 8255 • Agricultural Risk Analysis Reports – interventions and Infrastructure Development, affirmations Business Planning, Programme • Agricultural Development management, project-revival Project and Business Plans interventions, training for emerging • Comprehensive Benchmarked farmers. Agricultural Land Guideline Values Nationally FarmVision • Land Reform Process Tel: 042 296 0818 Management
[email protected] • Agricultural Risk Analysis www.farmvision.co.za and Valuation Methodology workshop facilitation and FarmVision runs consultancy Training services to private and public They are the preferred supplier institutions. They consult in and specialist advisory service agriculture, resource management, to the National African Farmers wildlife management, quality Union (NAFU) on accelerated land management and project reform. management. They also offer training. Agri Mega Empowerment Solutions (AgriMES) Tel: 028 424 2890 / 425 2524 www.agrimega.co.za
Flori Horticultural Services Tel: 013 735 6883 / 082 564 1211 Fax: 088 013 735 6883
[email protected]
Services to organised agriculture and commodity organisations. They operate in the North West, BEE. Accredited Training. Labour Mpumalanga, Free State, Limpopo services. and Eastern Cape. They do a soil and water analysis, do a full Agri Promo – see heading 5 feasibility study and recommend Agricultural and Industrial suitable crops. They consult and Marketing Company train in every field of agriculture. Tel: 012 993 1975 / 082 573 4344 www.theaimco.com FoodNCropBio Dr Wynand J van der Walt Securing trade and finance Senior partner: Agricultural instruments from banks, finding biotechnologies logistics solutions for communities, Tel: 012 347 6334 / 083 468 3471
[email protected] project management and more. Ms Wilna Jansen van Rijssen, Senior partner: Food safety Bruboer Farming & Industrial Tel: 012 347 4257 / 083 379 2111 Enterprises
[email protected] Tel: 012 349 2572 www.bruboer.co.za They render consultation and Details of projects across Africa facilitation services in respect of can be found on the website. modern agricultural biotechnologies and food safety issues. They have The Charles Street Veterinary access to a network of experts to Consultancy assist on specific issues. Tel: 012 460 9385 GPB Consulting Animal production consultants Tel: 021 852 7811 Fax: 0865452148 Caryki Consulting Tel: 051 436 6281 / 082 456 0396 Consulting engineers and planners.
[email protected] Experience in grain storage and handling, meat processing, wine, Services offered include viability cheese factories, fruit packing and and feasibility studies, business distribution. plan development, agricultural project planning and appraisal, food HCR Development processing and value adding. Tel: 083 629 0662 Fax: 086 670 8401 CASIDRA
[email protected] Tel: 044 871 0134 www.casidra.co.za Consultation services on and Development Facilitator for Integrated rural development Occupational Curriculum planning and implementation with Development. It act as mentor for a focus on agriculture, Land Reform persons trained as Development and support services, SMME Facilitators. support services etc.
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LM Agric Solutions Tel: 012 997 5416
[email protected]
ment surveys; rural livelihoods analysis; specialist economic studies.
Manstrat Development Strategists Tel: 012 460 2499
[email protected] www.manstrat.co.za
Mthonyama Development Enterprise & Agric./Soc. Consultants Tel: 043 643 3429 Fax: 043 643 5376
[email protected]
Find the “Agricultural Development” and “Agricultural Intelligence Outcomes-based training and Systems” on the website. consulting is offered in the following commodities: poultry; piggery; Martin van Zyl & Associates animal husbandry; vegetables and (Pty) Ltd crop production; veld management; Tel: 021 531 9289 LandCare; soil conservation. Cell: 083 406 0404
[email protected] Nell, Wim Tel: 051 401 3957 / 082 882 9777 They provide management and
[email protected] political support to mining and www.farmingsuccess.com agricultural businesses and merge with black partners. Products and Nerpo Agribusiness Unit services include project plans, Tel: 012 361 9127 strategy alignment, company Fax: 012 361 4430 restructuring, policy design, www.nerpo.org.za resolution formulation. Key services offered include: Max Yield research work in various fields Hannes – 082 419 3337 including the effectiveness of
[email protected] programmes offered by various institutions including national, Agricultural contractors for provincial and local governments; conventional or no-till planting, mentorship to SMEs particularly for distribution of lime (precisionin agribusiness management; based – GPS). training on business skills for SMEs; business planning, raising finance Measured Agriculture Tel: 028 254 9433 / 082 894 4072 and conducting feasibility studies; project planning and project
[email protected] management; facilitating access www.farms-for-afrika.com to markets; business linkages for Tony Meldal-Johnsen consults in the purposes of forming business business plans, soil science and partnerships and the transfer of technology. correct methods, and more. Measured Farming Tel: 033 345 2508 Fax: 086 516 5842
[email protected] They undertake valuations and assignments in the fields of Agriculture and Forestry, with specific reference to matters relating to court work as a result of damage to crops by fire and chemicals etc, dissolution of partnerships, Rights of Way, expropriation of land, and Land Claims. M I Murray Tel: 028 341 0823
[email protected] Helping to meet rural development challenges through agriculture and biodiversity. Consultancy services in: agribusiness development; development research; farm management advice; financial planning; monitoring and evaluation; policy and strategy; project feasibility studies; resource economics studies; rural develop-
NviroTek Labs Tel: 012 252 7588 www.nviroteklabs.co.za Independent analysis of soil, water, plants, fertiliser and feed OneWorld Agribusiness Solutions Tel: 021 421 6996 www.oneworldgroup.co.za Sustainable agribusiness development assignments across sub-Saharan Africa: consulting, technical assistance, capacity building, business planning and business development, feasibility studies, financial modeling Original Agricultural Business Systems (OABS) Tel: 021 870 2953 www.oabs.co.za An Agricultural Economics consultancy firm with a systems approach to problem solving. Find the list of past and current projects on their website.
Paterson Agricultural Services Dr Alistair Paterson Tel: 033 330 4817 / 082 880 9002
South African International Business Linkages (SAIBL) Tel: 011 602 1205
[email protected] Livestock management; Land www.saibl.org Redistribution; agricultural training, SAIBL helps to build the capacity information and development and competitiveness of black owned Peter Dall Consultancy and empowered small and medium Tel: 028 840 1735 South African enterprises, and to
[email protected] link them to trade opportunities and supplier business with domestic Horticultural consultant and and international companies. mentor (a number of New Farmer projects) TAMAC Consulting Tel: 039 834 1405 / 082 872 8681 Plant Science Consultants
[email protected] Association (PSCA) www.tammac.co.za Tel: 012 460 2576 / 082 718 4445
[email protected] Agricultural consultants specialising in all aspects of especially dairy The PSCA is an association of farm management, based in Ixopo over 40 consultants offering in southern KwaZulu-Natal. In services in all horticultural and field addition to consultancy services, crops. Services include project they offer a computer bureau management, plant pathology, service. product development and data handling. Urban-Econ: Development Economists Through past training activities the Tel: 031 202 9673 demand for appropriate training Fax: 031 202 9675 material to train small-scale farmers
[email protected] in the Southern African context www.urban-econ.com became obvious. Training services offered can include: training aids, They are a professional consulting development of learning material, firm in the broad field of economic writing of business plans for the development, agriculture being a purpose of agricultural training vital part of this. aimed at emerging growers and the design of demonstration trials Ukwazisa Consulting Tel/fax: 021 979 2040 for small-scale farmers. Cell: 082 771 9540 Resource Consulting Services www.cpwild.co.za (SA) PTY LTD Tel: 058 622 1499 The corporation specialises in Fax: 086 511 0634 consulting work in the field of
[email protected] forestry and natural product www.rcs-sa.com development. Clients include donor agencies, small-scale timber farmers Training and coaching in business and government departments. A and professional development list of recent projects can be found for family owned businesses in on the website. commercial agriculture. Van der Linde, Des Richard Hurt & Associates Tel: 012 654 4716 Tel: 033 394 6687 / 082 887 1082 www.mvelo.co.za Ordered spraying of agri chemicals on export fruit. Assists Land use and feasibility studies, manufacturers/formulators of Communal livestock systems, chemicals to obtain registration Invasive Alien Species Management, (Act 36 of 1947). grazing strategies for game and livestock – find all details on the Van Vliet De Wet & Partners Tel: 011 482 2290 website. Fax: 011 726 6252 Scientific Roets Van Vliet & Partners are consulting Tel: 039 727 1515 engineers have for more than 30
[email protected] years been involved in the planning, www.scientificroets.com design and construction of plant An Agricultural Project Management and equipment for abattoirs and and Training, and Consulting for the meat industry in general Engineering Firm specialising in both locally and internationally. rural development projects (deep rural areas – either in South Africa or Africa).
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Veterinary House CC Tel: 033 342 4698 Fax: 033 342 0688
[email protected] This is a general practice with specialist interest in production animal medicine and veterinary problem analysis. Contracts are often to feedlots. Wolf Bernhardt Consulting Tel: 031 266 3258
[email protected] www.wbconsulting.co.za He is a management consultant, consulting on technical matters to the sugar industry and the chemical industry. He also gives training courses aimed at developing leadership skills to a wide variety of organisations. Consulting service deals with issues such as greencane harvesting, composting of agricultural waste products, development of new products as byproducts of chemical processes, optimising existing processes.
Womiwu Rural Development Tel: 015 297 2107 Fax: 015 297 8131
[email protected] www.womiwu.com Products & services include: investigations, feasibility/ viability studies, business plans, proposals, farm planning and resource conservation, project implementation, turnkey management, BEE ventures/ initiatives
BANKS Standard Bank has a team of agricultural advisors, who work closely with the agricultural managers. The role of these economists includes giving assistance and advice on business planning, feasibility studies, compiling of comprehensive agricultural reports, and strategic planning and expansion programmes. This specialist service is available on request for a fee. For more information, contact your local agricultural advisor or manager.
COMPANIES INVOLVED
Lengau Agricultural Centre Dr MC van der Westhuizen Remember too that companies Tel: 051 443 8859 involved within a particular sector
[email protected] often double up as consultants. An example: a project / enterprise USB-ED Ltd related to water, pumps, generators University of Stellenbosch Business etc you could call on the Kirloskar School – Executive Development Group. Tel: 011 493 3330 / 082 451 Ltd Tel: 021 918 4488 / 011 460 6980 3635 or fax: 011 493 3336
[email protected] www.usb-ed.com UNIVERSTIES Universities offer consulting The consulting division of the Stellenbosch Business School, they services. Some examples are: do work mainly in the Mining, Agriculture, Transport and Financial University of the Free State Services industries. Department of Agricultural University of Pretoria Economics BUSINESS ENTERPRISES Tel: 051 401 2250 Tel: 012 420 4247 Centre for Sustainable Agriculture
[email protected] www.be.up.co.za and Rural Development Tel: 051 401 2163 Offers consultative and commercial
[email protected] contract research services Department Animal, Wildlife and Grassland Sciences Prof HO de Waal Tel: 051 401 2210
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2. Environmental A number of environmental consultants can also be found in the biodiversity chapter
ACER (Africa) Tel: 035 340 2715
[email protected] www.acerafrica.co.za Environmental management consultants African Alternative Energy Tel: 084 941 3993 www.aae.co.za BTW Consulting Tel: 013 697 6050 / 022 783 1663 Environmental Impact Assessments Bushveld Eco Services Tel: 014 717 3819 Fax: 086 531 6075 www.bushveldeco.co.za
EnviroMon Tel: 021 851 5134 www.enviromon.co.za Geomeasure Group Tel: 031 768 1103 www.geomeasure.co.za Janet Edmonds Consulting Tel: 082 828 7953 Fax: 086 219 9059
[email protected] See also Richard Hurt & Associates under the first heading SPATIUM Environmental Design Tel: 058 256 1195 / 082 777 2647
[email protected]
Specialises in: Housing; ISO 14001 environment management systems; A consultancy and training service Environmental Design; planning for is offered to the agricultural and sustainable development (farming, environmental sectors. in this case).
3. Finance and administration Agfin Tel: 043 726 1470
Excell Financial Advisors Tel: 086 19 39 355 www.excell.co.za
Book-keeping, prepare financial statements etc. Frudata Tel: 021 975 6241 Agriconcept (Edms) Bpk Piet van der Merwe – 072 222 Tel: 012 654 6005 6846
[email protected] Feasibility studies (mainly for Agricultural economic advisory deciduous industry) services. These include: Huis van Oranje • economic planning, business Tel: 0860 010 4297 plans, evaluation, viability www.hvo.co.za and cost benefit studies of agricultural nature, design and Key Business Solutions implement credit facilities for Cell: 084 808 9925 smallholder farmers as well as other agricultural-economic Fax: 086 530 4503 www.keybs.co.za related subjects; • the design and establishment of credit facilities for smallholder Business IT Consultant farmers; • identification and evaluation L & L Agricultural Services of small business and agro- Tel: 012 807 3958 Fax: 012 807 4191 industrial opportunities.
[email protected] See Agricultural and Industrial Marketing Company entry under They operate as an independent and objective service and consulting first heading firm on agricultural commodities Antswisa in Southern Africa through Tel: 079 230 4999 experienced professionals in grain www.antswisa.co.za marketing and in agricultural matters in general. Financial consultants who also run entrepreneurship and SMME L & L Agricultural Services provides export programmes managerial, administrative, secretarial and linguistic services to
agricultural and other entities. At present L & L Agricultural Services act as the Administrators to the Maize Trust, the Maize Forum and its Steering Committee, the Wheat Forum and its Steering Committee, the Maize Board and the Southern African Grain Arbitration Service Association (SAGAS).
Their clients operate within the following industries and service areas: Agricultural unions; distillers; poultry; angora goats; forage agents; sheep; avocado pears; game; SME development programmes; bananas; irrigation councils; soya beans; beans; maize; sunflowers; BEE; millers; suppliers of agriculturalinput and services; Media Consultancy canola; nuts; cattle; ostrich; tea; Tel: 082 492 8165 citrus; pack shed vegetables;
[email protected] tobacco; cold storage fruit; pawpaws; tomatoes; cold storage PricewaterhouseCoopers vegetables; pigs; vegetables; Agri Industry Group plantations; wheat; dairies; Kobie Bekker (National Leader and potatoes; wheat agents; wheat Southern Region) – 023 346 5502 germ; wine cellars. As trusted business advisor the Ventex Corporation Agri Industry Group focuses on Tel: 051 444 0898 / 082 659 3187 Fax: 086 696 1674 providing specialist services like: www.ventex.co.za • accounting services Mergers and acquisitions, agriBEE, • management control financial planning. Clients are in • tax services the broader agro-industry – e.g. • e-Business services agrochemicals, environmental • transaction support • forensic services and litigation health, Ayrshire farmers, etc. support • risk management services • mergers and acquisitions • entrepreneurial advice services • business recovery services • internal audit services
4. Real estate Find the Agricultural Land Valuations chapter
5. Other Agri Promo (www.agripromo. co.za) is a one-stop agricultural media and marketing company, delivering the following corporate services: media and communication services, magazines, publications, graphic design, promotional material, corporate marketing services, printing services. Par Excellance (Personnel Practitioners) Mariana Wait du Plessis Tel: 011 888 3433 Fax: 011 888 1225
[email protected] http:/users.iafrica.com/p/pa/ parexcel
Other recruitment companies can be found in the Careers and Employment in Agriculture chapter. Definitely Different Event Managers Tel: 021 863 0397 www.definitelydifferent.co.za They organise products launches, conferences and more. Hans Lombard Public Relations Consultant Tel: 011 476 6926 Fax: 011 476 6127
[email protected]
Public Relations consultant. Includes providing information to the media They are Personnel Practitioners (press releases). specialising in the guidance, recruitment, and selection of staff for the food, beverage, packaging, and agricultural industries in (Southern) Africa.
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Organised Agriculture and agri-services
OFFICE
Agricultural land valuations
Registrar of Deeds: Cape Town
Serves the Western Cape and parts of Eastern and Northern Cape
Tel: 021 464 7600 Fax: 021 464 7727
Registrar of Deeds: Johannesburg
Serves part of Gauteng
Tel: 011 378 2111 Fax: 011 378 2100
Registrar of Deeds: Pietermaritzburg
Serves KwaZulu-Natal
Tel: 033 355 6800 Fax: 033 345 5501
Registrar of Deeds: Bloemfontein
Serves the Free State
Tel: 051 403 0300 Fax: 051 403 0308 / 70
Registrar of Deeds: King William’s Town
Serves part of the Eastern Cape
Tel: 043 642 2741 Fax: 043 642 4539
Registrar of Deeds: Kimberley
Serves part of the Northern Cape
Tel: 053 832 7228/0 Fax: 053 832 5888
Registrar of Deeds: Vryburg
Serves parts of the Northern Cape and North West
Tel: 053 927 1067 Fax: 053 927 4002
Registrar of Deeds: Umtata
Serves part of the Eastern Cape
Tel: 047 532 2869 Tel: 047 5312 150 Fax: 047 531 2873
1. Overview Throwing money at land redistribution in South Africa has the potential to trigger enormous speculative activity in the agricultural market. “One would find that every hectare of arable land would go up in price,” said Trevor Manuel in parliament in 2008 when he was Minister of Finance. To help the reader envisage the size of 30% of agricultural land, the target set by government to be achieved by 2014, Landbou.com once compared it to something close to the size of the Free State and Mpumalanga combined. In August 2009, an economist at a bank involved in agriculture anticipated that land prices would double over the next five years. November 2009 saw the news break that the Land Claims Commission was not able to honour some R10 billion in outstanding commitments to land owners and claimants. Treasury had rejected a request for an extra R10.3 billion over the next three years. How does one value agricultural land? What is a fair price? Should the matter be a straight market-driven one? The issue is a political rallying point, a ticking time bomb, and highly emotive. It is one view that enough land is available on the market to achieve the current land reform targets. With more than 5% of all agricultural properties changing ownership on the open market each year, South Africa should be able to transfer 30% of farm land to black owners well before 2014. There is no need for threats like expropriation because the major obstacles to Land Reform are administrative and bureaucratic bottlenecks, and high staff turnover in the relevant government bodies. A counterview is that the entrenchment of the property clause in the Constitution is a major obstacle to the achievement of even the limited objectives of the land reform programme. In South Africa, it is impossible to satisfy both the need to protect property rights and to ensure a policy of equitable distribution of land. Existing landowners inflate the price of land identified for transfer under the Land Reform programme. Source: www.landbou.com; Landbouweekblad 9 June 2009, 7 August 2009; the article “State short of R10bn to honour land deals” at www.businessday.co.za
2. Deeds Registration The core business of a Deeds Registry is to maintain a public register of land as well as an efficient system of registration aimed at affording security of title to land and rights in land. The Deeds Registry also provides registration information to the general public and preserves registered records for archival purposes. Further contact details (e.g. physical and postal addresses) are available on http://ruraldevelopment.gov.za. Office of the Chief Registrar of Deeds Tel: 012 338 7000 Fax: 012 328 7027
PROVINCE SERVED
CONTACT DETAILS
Registrar of Deeds: Serves Mpumalanga Tel: 012 338 7000 Pretoria and Limpopo, and Fax: 012 328 3347 parts of Gauteng and North West
3. Other roleplayers Find details of land activists, NGOs and other roleplayers in the Land Reform chapter AGRI LAND GROUP Tel: 012 345 3911 Fax: 012 345 3949 www.agrilandgroup.co.za AGRI LAND GROUP consists of the following companies: ALPRO, ALPROP and ALPIX. Its services are: • Specialist Agricultural Real Estate and Asset Valuations – Agri Land Projects (Pty) Ltd “ALPRO” • Web Based National Benchmarked Agricultural Land Guideline Values – Agri Land Price Index (Pty) Ltd “ALPIX” • Land Reform Process Management – Agri Land Properties (Pty) Ltd “ALPROP” • Agricultural Risk Analysis and Valuation Methodology Training – Agri Land Group “ALG” • Agricultural Development Project Management – Agri Land Projects (Pty) Ltd “ALPRO” The AGRI LAND GROUP does Agricultural Risk Analysis and Valuation Methodology workshop facilitation and Training for risk managers and client relation managers operating in the Agricultural Sector. Annually, the comprehensive Benchmarked Agricultural Land Guideline Values are updated nationally through specialist forums in the + 1200 demarcated homogeny agricultural areas of South Africa. The processed
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data is then published as the Agricultural Land Price Index on a multi application web based platform, easily accessible through subscription. Financiers, Risk Management and professional Valuers utilise this information to not only speed up the process but also to ensure uniformity and accuracy. AGRI LAND GROUP does continued research of new and existing best agricultural practices and in designing methodologies and processes in determining the values and risk analysis of such practices. This research is utilised by the valuation profession as well as financiers in setting a uniform standard. Agri SA Tel: 012 643 3400 www.agrisa.co.za Farmer union president, Johannes Möller, pointed out that the money reportedly set aside for land reform up until November 2009 could already have purchased 31% of agricultural land available, and yet only 5% had been delivered. Centre for Constitutional Rights Tel: 021 930 3622 www.cfcr.org.za Cilliers & Associates Tel: 022 913 2054 Fax: 086 641 6485 A Demographic Information Group and Population of South Africa (Popsa) report speculated that black land ownership might be far higher than official figures suggest. Find the article “Who owns what land in South Africa?” at www.mg.co.za Department of Rural Development and Land Reform Tel: 012 312 8911 http://ruraldevelopment.gov.za
Lightstone Tel: 011 244 8400
[email protected] www.lightstone.co.za For automated valuation reports and “a live interface between Lightstone and the South Africa Deeds Registry”. National Emergent Red Meat Producers’ Organisation (NERPO) Tel: 012 361 9127 www.nerpo.org.za Aggrey Mahanjana, Executive Director, believes that the high price of agricultural land means that less money is spent on emerging farmer support by the state. Programme for Land and Agrarian Studies (PLAAS) Tel: 021 959 3733 www.plaas.org.za Property Commerce Tel: 051 525 2497 / 500 SA Farm Consulting cc Tel: 033 234 4387 / 033 345 2015
[email protected] [email protected] www.safc.co.za
Find extensive provincial and Real Estate Brokers, Agricultural district contact details in the Land Management Consultants and Reform chapter or on the website. Managers Huis van Oranje Tel: 0860 010 4297 www.hvo.co.za
The South African Institute of Valuers Tel: 031 464 6932
[email protected] Property valuations, accounting www.saiv.org.za services, all insurance. TAU SA Regional contact details for the Tel: 012 804 8031 Institute of Estate Agents of www.tlu.co.za South Africa (IEASA) can be found on their website – www. University of the Free State ieasa.org.za. Department of Agricultural Economics Johnsen Real Estate Tel: 051 401 2250 Tel: 028 254 9400/ 082 894 4072 www.ufs.ac.za www.farms-for-afrika.com
4. International business environment Governments and corporations are buying up farmland in other countries to grow their own food – or simply to make money. Read more at http:// farmlandgrab.org While there is a perception that land is abundant in certain countries, these claims need to be treated with caution. In so many cases land is already being used or claimed – yet existing land uses and claims go unrecognised because land users are marginalised from formal land rights and access to the law and institutions. And even in countries where some land is available, large-scale land allocations may still result in displacement as demand focuses on higher value lands (e.g. those with greater irrigation potential or proximity to markets). For people in recipient countries, this context creates risks (such as loss of land access for local people, but also undermining of local businesses and environmental damage) but also opportunities (e.g. in terms of access to capital, technology, knowhow and markets), particularly in light of the longstanding underinvestment in African agriculture. Source: Monty Jones, Executive Director, Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), writing in the FARA Bimonthly Bulletin, June-July 2009.
5. Websites and publications The agricultural weekly publications Landbouweekblad and Farmer’s Weekly cover agricultural property sales, as do their websites (find the “Auctions and Farm Sales” menu option at www.farmersweekly.co.za). www.landbou. com has a data bank of farm prices for the past decade. The two agricultural weeklies also have regular articles on land valuation. Examples include a report that the value of agricultural land is expected to double over the next five years (Landbouweekblad 7 August 2009), and Dr Koos Coetzee’s article “Land values don’t matter if farms don’t produce”. Visit the archives at www.landbou.com and www.farmersweekly.co.za. Find the “Farms Sold” section in the Farmer’s Weekly, or write to George Nicholas at
[email protected]. The column lists recent farm sales as recorded by the National Deeds Office. Find the “Land” option at www.ijr.org.za, website of the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation. For market values and trends (urban), visit www.propvalues.co.za Some websites advertising farms for sale: • • • • • • •
www.valuationalliance.co.za www.gamefarmsinafrica.co.za www.gamefarmestates.co.za www.sahometraders.co.za www.jackklaff.co.za/index.php www.hoskens.co.za www.kznfarmsales.co.za
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Organised Agriculture and agri-services Legal aid and legislation See also the Labour and Job Creation, and Environmental Impact Assessments and other Environment Legislation chapters.
1. Overview • The laws listed on the following two pages affect agriculture directly or indirectly. Agricultural activity takes place within a wider social, environmental and economic context, and so any attempt at compiling a list like this necessarily goes beyond the laws administered by the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF). The list presented here could be more exhaustive, but at the expense of its helpfulness. • To find out more about the laws, visit www.polity.org.za (and some on www.acts.co.za). A number of the laws administered by DAFF can be found on its website – www.daff.gov.za (take the Publications menu option). You could also contact DAFF directly, or any of the roleplayers mentioned in the chapter. • Information can also be found on related / relevant websites e.g. to find out more about the Meat Safety Act, visit the website of the Red Meat Abattoir Association – www.rmaa.co.za; if you are looking for information about the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), visit www.cites.org etc. • Should you wish to check up on the status of a bill, visit www.pmg.org. za, website of the Parliamentary Monitoring Group. In no way is this chapter meant to take the place of professional legal aid, and you are encouraged to consult a qualified practitioner should you be requiring legal expertise.
2. Legal aid for farmers Aglabor Tel: 021 706 6827 Agri SA Tel: 012 643 3400 Fax: 012 663 9178
[email protected] www.agrisa.co.za
Agricultural Employers Organisation (AEO) Tel: 0861 10 18 28
[email protected] www.lwo.co.za The AEO also conducts short courses for the agricultural employer.
Contact details of provincial affiliates are given in the Organised Philip du Toit Group Agriculture chapter Tel: 012 664 0704 Fax: 012 664 2557 Agrilabor Employer’s
[email protected] Organisation www.pdtgroup.co.za Tel: 017 819 1295 Small Enterprises Employers of The above organisation is based at South Africa (SEESA) Agri Mpumalanga. YOUR provincial Tel: 086 11 73372 farmers’ union will have details of www.seesalabour.co.za accredited labour consultants www.seesa.co.za Agri Labour Tel: 012 543 9636 / 083 231 1113 Fax: 012 567 2408
SEESA Labour was established to protect the interests of small business owners and farmers.
Agri Labour Services Tel: 013 737 8778
TAU SA Tel: 012 804 8031
[email protected] www.tlu.co.za
3. Legal aid for farm workers/farm dwellers The Food and Alied Workers’ Union (FAWU) Tel: 021 637 9040 / 4 Fax: 021 637 9190
[email protected] www.fawu.org.za • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Bloemfontein Tel: 051 448 4108 Fax: 051 448 4111 Cape Town Tel: 021 421 4120 Fax: 021 421 4170 Ceres Tel: 023 316 2240 Fax: 023 316 1574 Durban Tel: 031 305 8946/7 Fax: 031 305 8945 East London Tel: 043 743 0003 Fax: 043 743 7866 Empangeni Tel: 035 772 1916 Fax: 035 772 1916 George Tel: 044 874 1830 Fax: 044 873 5276 Grabouw Tel: 021 859 2645 Fax: 021 859 5605 Johannesburg Tel: 011 838 9773 Fax: 011 838 9779 Kimberley Tel: 053 832 2561 Fax: 053 832 2532 Kroonstad Tel: 056 212 1202 / 082 492 5060 Lamberts Bay Tel: 022 432 2750 Fax: 027 432 2750 Lephalale Tel: 014 763 1609 Fax: 014 763 1610 Nelspruit Tel: 013 755 4242 Fax: 013 755 4986 Newcastle Tel: 034 315 2281 Fax: 034 312 9322 Paarl Tel: 021 862 9537 Fax: 021 862 9537 Pietermaritzburg Tel: 033 342 9683 Fax: 033 345 6664 Polokwane Tel: 015 297 3523 Fax: 015 297 1885 Port Elizabeth Tel: 041 585 4851 Fax: 041 585 4887 Port Shepstone Tel: 073 240 5301 Fax: 039 682 5989 Pretoria Tel: 012 320 6154 Fax: 012 320 3569 Queenstown Tel: 045 496 5904 Fax: 045 833 2193 Robertson Tel: 023 626 5830 Fax: 023 626 5832 Rustenburg Tel: 014 592 0838 Fax: 014 594 2197 Saldana Tel: 022 714 1616 Fax: 022 714 3603 Umtata Tel: 047 531 1173 Fax: 047 531 1831 Upington Tel: 054 331 3073 / 082 492 4869 Vanderbijlpark Tel: 016 931 2869 Fax: 016 981 8608 Witbank Tel: 013 690 1576
Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) Tel: 011 339 4911 Fax: 011 339 5080/6940 www.cosatu.org.za
Others Foundation for Human Rights (FHR) Tel: 011 339 5560-5 www.fhr.org.za
Rural Legal Trust Tel: 011 403 4426
[email protected]
The following are mainly involved in projects and development work, but do offer farm worker/farm dweller legal aid: Association for Rural Advancement Tel: 033 345 7607 www.afra.co.za An NGO that in the past has offered a legal service, though it is now directing people to the relevant government departments instead. Its broad aims are to redress past injustices, to secure tenure for all, and to improve the quality of life and livelihoods of the rural poor. Centre for Rural Legal Studies (CRLS) Tel: 021 883 8032 www.crls.org.za
The CRLS promotes the land and labour interests of men and women farm workers in the Western, Eastern and Northern Cape of South Africa through: • training • information dissemination • research • advocacy • legal intervention • development facilitation
Legislation
Administration of Estates Act (66 of 1965) Adult Basic Education And Training Act (ABET) Agricultural Debt Management Act (45 of 2001) – currently there is a Repeal Bill [B24-2008] Agricultural Labour Act (147 of 1993) Agricultural Pests Act (36 of 1983) Agricultural Produce Agents Act (12 of 1992) – Amendment Bill (47 of 2003) Agricultural Products Enhancement Act Agricultural Product Standards Act (119 of 1990) Agricultural Research Act (86 of 1990) Animal Health Act (7 of 2002) Animal Identification Act (6 of 2002) Animal Improvement Act (62 of 1998) Animal Matters Amendment Act (42 of 1993) Basic Conditions Of Employment Act (75 of 1997) Biodiversity Act (10 of 2004) Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Act (53 of 2003) Communal Land Rights Act (11 of 2004) Communal Property Associations Act (28 of 1996) Companies Act 1973 (61 of 1973) As Amended Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (130 of 1993) – ammended by Act 61 of 1997 Conservation Of Agricultural Resources Act (43 of 1983) – CARA Consumer Protection Bill [B 19-2008] Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Co-operatives Act (14 of 2005) Consumer Protection Act (68 of 2008) Customs And Excise Act (91 of 1964) Deeds Registries Act (47 of 1937) Disaster Management Act (57 of 2002) Development Facilitation Act (67 of 1995) Distribution And Transfer Of Certain State Land Act (119 of 1993) Employment Equity Act (55 of 1998) Environment Conservation Act (73 of 1989) Estate Duty Act, 1955 (45 of 1955) Expropriation Bill – withdrawn Extension Of Security Of Tenure Act (62 of 1997) - ESTA Fencing Act (31 of 1963) Fertilisers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies And Stock Remedies Act (36 of 1947) Firearms Control Act (60 of 2000) Foodstuffs, Cosmetics And Disinfectants Act (54 of 1972) Forestry Laws Rationalisation and Amendment Act (51 of 1994) – Ammended by 35 of 2005) Genetically Modified Organisms Act (15 of 1997) – Amended by 23 of 2006 Income Tax Act (58 of 1962) Interim Protection Of Informal Land Rights Act (31 of 1996) International Trade Administration Act (71 of 2002) Labour Relations Act (66 of 1995) Land Administration Act (2 of 1995) Land Reform (Labour Tenants) Act (3 of 1996)
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Land And Agricultural Development Bank Act (15 of 2002) Land Survey Act (8 of 1997) Upgrading Of Land Tenure Rights Act (112 of 1991) Local Government: Property Rates Act (6 of 2004) – the “land tax” Liquor Products Act. 1989 (60 of 1989) Draft Liquor Products Amendment Bill [B 22B-2008] Livestock Improvement Act (25 of 1977) Marketing of Agricultural Products Act, 1996 – amended by Act 59 of 1997 and Act 34 of 2001 Meat Safety Act (40 of 2000) – replaces the Abattoir Hygiene Act (121 of 1992 Medicines And Related Substances Act (101 of 1965) Mineral And Petroleum Resources Development Act (28 of 2002) Minerals and Energy Laws Amendment Act (11 of 2005) National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (57 of 2003) National Environmental Management Act (107 of 1998) – NEMA National Environmental Management Laws Amendment Bill [B 36A-2007] National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (10 of 2004) - NEMBA National Forests Act (84 of 1998) National Small Business Amendment Act (26 of 2003) National Veld And Forest Fire Act (101 of 1998) National Water Act (36 of 1998) NSPCA’s Act (Act 197 of 1993) Occupational Health and Safety Act (85 of 1993) – amended by Act 181 of 1993 Onderstepoort Biological Products Incorporation Act (19 of 1999) Performing Animals Protection Act (24 of 1935) Perishable Products Export Control Act (9 of 1983) Plant Breeders’ Rights Act (15 of 1976) Plant Improvement Act (53 of 1976) Prevention of Illegal Eviction and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act (19 of 1998) Provision of Land And Assistance Act (Act 126 of 1993) – Amendment Bill [B 40-2008] tabled Restitution of Land Rights Act (22 of 1994) – Amended by Act 48 of 2003 Restitution of Land Rights Amendment Bill Sectoral Termination 8 – see Basic Conditions of Employment Act Skills Development Act (97 of 1998) Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (169 of 1993) South African Abattoir Corporation Act (120 of 1992) – Repeal Bill [B212005] South African Schools Act (84 of 1996) State Land Disposal Act (48 of 1961) Stock Improvement Act (2 of 1998) Stock Theft Act (57 of 1959) Subdivision Of Agricultural Land Act (70 of 1970) – repealed by 64 of 1998 Sugar Act (9 of 1978) Transformation Of Certain Rural Areas Act (94 of 1998) Unemployment Insurance Act (42 of 1996) Various provincial nature conservation ordinances Veterinary And Para-Veterinary Professions Act (19 of 1982)
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Free State Rural Development Association (FSRDA) Tel: 051 448 4628
[email protected]
The LRC has branches and contacts in Cape Town, Durban and Grahamstown. Contact details are available on the LRC website.
A land rights service NGO. FSRDA focuses on institutional building activities and provided services to communities through community development work, legal, paralegal and land reform projects.
Nkuzi Development Organisation Tel: 012 323 6417 www.nkuzi.org.za
KwaZulu-Natal Land Legal Cluster Tel: 031 260 2446 An organisation which provides land legal support and other related services to farm dwellers in KZN. Legal Resource Centre (LRC) Tel: 011 836 9831 www.lrc.org.za
Nkuzi is active in Gauteng and Limpopo. Among their main objectives is: a. informing and advising farm dwellers and others of their land rights; b. assisting in negotiations with land owners to reach acceptable solutions to land conflicts; c. opposing eviction orders in court.
4. Websites and publications • Find the “documents” menu option on the Agri SA website, www. agrisa.co.za • Find the “Legislation” option at www.agbiz.co.za, website of the Agricultural Business Chamber. • The Agricultural Employers’ Organisation has a number of publications and handbooks. On their website, information is available in both English and Afrikaans. Call Tel: 0861 10 18 28 or visit www.lwo.co.za. • Contact Apcor Legal Publishing for law books, wall charts, CDs. The books are the type you can keep in your pocket for easy reference. Labour law (farm sector included) is covered. Call 011 828 7700 or visit www.apcor.co.za • Visit www.cfcr.org.za (Centre for Constitutional Rights) for legal updates and commentary. • Videos, discussion papers, conference proceedings, briefing papers and more is available from the Centre for Rural Legal Studies (CRLS). Find details at www.crls.org.za or contact them at 021 883 8032. • The Department of Labour website – www.labour.gov.za – has basic guides to labour legislation, the actual legislation, useful documents and more. • Find the regular “Legal matters” column in the agricultural weekly, Farmer’s Weekly. Archived articles may be found at www.farmersweekly. co.za • Find the “Legislation” menu option on the Forestry South Africa website www.forestry.co.za • The Gaffney Group supplies ready-to-use legal documents for your business. Visit www.gaffney.co.za or call 011 268 5804. • The Labour Guide website – www.labourguide.co.za – is a highly useful one. Find the many menu options – UIF; Warnings; Codes of Good Practice etc. Click on the issue about which you wish to know more. A South African Labour Guide newsletter is also offered. Their contact telephone is 012 661 3208, and you can fax them at 012 661 1411. • Labourwise – www.labourwise.co.za – is the “definitive online South African Labour Help Resource”. Find the Farmworkers menu option which takes you to several guides and forms e.g. contract of employment with explanatory notes. You have to be a member though to view these. Call 021 852 3499 or write to
[email protected] • Polity.org.za provides regular updates on legislation. Subscribe to their weekly newsletter. • The website of the Public Protector is www.publicprotector.org • Sabinet offer legal services on a pre-paid, online subscription basis. Visit www.sabinet.co.za for more.
• The Shop Steward (Editor in chief: Zwelinzima Vavi). Available from FAWU (see heading 3). • Legal (employment-related) questions are answered in every Solidarity newsletter. These are available weekly, in Afrikaans and in English. Visit www.solidarity.co.za or phone 012 644 4300. • The TAU SA has a CD (or hardcopy for those farmers without access to a computer) which includes guidelines on Sectoral Determination, minmum wages and various legal procedures a farmer should follow. Tel: 012 804 8031.
5. Relocations and evictions: for the farm dweller Find the article “When can farmers legally evict workers” in the Farmer’s Weekly archives at www.farmersweekly.co.za
In terms of the Extension of Security of Tenure Act (ESTA), no farmworker may be evicted without an order of the court. Section 26 (3) of the Constitution protects farm occupiers/ workers against arbitry evictions. No person can be evicted from her/his home or have the home demolished without a court order. The farm occupier/ worker and the farm owner can also agree that the occupier will move off the farm to live somewhere else. The farm dweller must make sure that the agreement is fair and her/his rights are protected. When negotiating an agreement, the farm dweller is encouraged to make sure sure of the following: • Understand your rights. Get advice from an Advice Office, Justice Centre or a Legal Aid Clinic. • No farm occupier/ worker can be forced to reach an agreement. • Choose your own person to assist you e.g. a lawyer or a para-legal from any advice office, who is independent from the farm owner. The following needs to be agreed on: • How much the farm owner owes you in wages. The farm owner must pay outstanding wages before you leave the farm. • Agree on time to harvest any of your crops or agree on compensation and see to it that you are paid before you leave. • Agree on compensation for any structures you built and used on the farm by yourself and your family or agree that you may take the building material for a new house. • Make sure the place you move to is similar to what you have to leave behind. The farm owner must assist you to get alternative accommodation. You can both approach the Department of Land Affairs for assistance. • If you have children make sure the new place has a school nearby. • Make sure the new place has water. • You have the right to be assisted with translation by someone independent from the farm owner. • Ask for advice on any subsidies from government to assist you to relocate. A farm owner can apply for an eviction order in court. The court must consider the following: • Has any labour dispute between the farm occupier/worker and the farm owner been resolved according to the Labour Relations Act (if not the dispute must be resolved first and then the eviction can be heard), or did the farm worker resign voluntarily? The court must appoint a person to report to the court on the following: • availability of suitable alternative accommodation; • the effect of an eviction order on the rights of the farm occupier especially the education of the children; • the court must consider the plight of pensioners;
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report to the court the hardships occupiers will suffer if evicted; did the farm occupier fail to honour any terms of an agreement; was the agreement fair and reasonable; the court must order the farm owner to pay compensation for any structures built by the farm occupier and any crops planted by the occupiers still on the land or if the crop can be harvested the occupier must be given time to remove the crop; • the court must order that outstanding wages must be paid before the occupier can be evicted. The farm occupier has the right to be represented by a lawyer in a hearing for eviction in a court. The state must provide legal aid and the farm occupier can approach the nearest Justice Centre run by the Legal Aid Board for free legal assistance. If an occupier has reached the age of sixty or is disabled s/he and has lived on the farm for ten years or longer and is unable to provide labour s/he cannot be evicted unless s/he has caused deliberate damage to property, harmed or threatened another person also living on the farm, or assisted other persons to illegally erect structures on the farm. If an agreement has been reached that the farm occupier will leave the farm the occupier must keep to the agreement. Otherwise the farm owner can apply for an eviction order. Source: Farmer’s Weekly 28 September 2007; Durkje Gilfillan, Attorney, Legal Resources Centre, Johannesburg
Agri SA disapproves of illegal evictions, but has pointed out what it regards as weaknesses in the Extension Security of Tenure Act (known as ESTA) as well as the implementation thereof. This includes lengthy, expensive court cases, disputes relating to livestock, grazing and water, as well as the negative impact on farm values. Agri SA has made certain proposals regarding permanent off-farm housing and economic opportunities for farm workers, the role of local forums to facilitate access to land and housing, and the need for a mechanism similar to the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) to resolve disputes. Agri SA’s submission to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee is available on request form Thea Liebenberg. Source: Agri SA Press release
Organised Agriculture and agri-services Organised Agriculture 1. Overview At grassroots level, commercial farmers are members of their local farmers’ associations, through which they address local agricultural issues and liaise with officials and organisations on matters concerning their members. The farmers’ associations delegate members to represent them in their respective provincial agricultural unions. The provincial agricultural unions address matters affecting farmers in the province as a whole and liaise with higher organisations. The provincial agricultural unions in turn delegate members to represent them on national bodies. Included here are the Agricultural Business Chamber and the commodity organisations. The agricultural co-operatives and farmer-owned undertakings comprise agribusiness. The commodity organisations serve and represent farmers producing a specific commodity, e.g. maize, beef, cotton etc. Farmers may thus voluntarily be part of organised agricultural structures through local farmers’ associations, through their co-operatives, and/or through commodity organisations. Source: Agri SA (adapted)
2. International associations involved • International Federation of Agricultural Producers (IFAP) – www.ifap. org • Cairns Group Farm Leaders – www.cairnsgroupfarmers.org • Find out about the most recent events in the region on the website of the Southern African Confederation of Agricultural Unions (SACAU) at www.sacau.org. Farmers are represented in the rest of Africa through PROPAC (Central Africa), Eastern Africa (EAFF), and ROPPA (West Africa).
3. National associations involved AGRI SA Mr Johannes Möller (President) Mr Hans van der Merwe (Executive Director) Tel: 012 643 3400 Fax: 012 663 3178
[email protected] www.agrisa.co.za Reason for existence The motivation behind the establishment of the organisation – despite a change of name from Intercolonical Agricultural Union in 1904 to the South African Agricultural Union (1909) and Agri SA (1999) – has remained virtually unchanged over the past 100 years. The purpose of the organisation is still largely to influence policy at all government levels in the interest of commercial agricultural producers and businesses and to support our mission at operational level. Mission and Vision Agri SA promotes, on behalf of its members, the development, profitability, stability and sustainability of commercial agriculture in South Africa by means of its involvement and input on national and international policy level. Structure Agri SA have a General Affairs Chamber – taking care of matters on which provincial affiliations focus and a Commodity Chamber – dealing with
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commodity issues through commodity affiliations. Its Constitution also makes provision for associated membership. The organisations highest authority is its Congress. Policy work is done in specialised committees, that also make use of external inputs. The organisation’s General Council is accessible for all its affiliations and focus on strategic challenges which is dealt by the organisations committee structure.
Agri North West Tel: 018 632 2987 Fax: 018 632 2512
[email protected] PO Box 3185 Lichtenburg 2740
Agri Gauteng Tel: 012 663 9935 Fax: 012 663 9134
[email protected] Private Bag X180 Centurion 0046
Focus areas
Agri Mpumalanga c/o Agri SA
Kwanalu (KwaZulu-Natal) Tel: 033 342 9393 Fax: 033 345 7141
[email protected] PO Box 100123 Scottsville 3209 www.kwanalu.co.za
Agri SA’s policy advocacy includes work on trade negotiations, industrial policy, labour laws, training, taxation, financing, land reform, farmer development, environmental affairs, water rights, other input related issues, farm safety, law and order, infrastructure, technology development and transfer, statistical information and local government matters. It publishes a bi-monthly magazine (Agri), an electronic newsletter and runs a regular radio programme in collaboration with the SABC. Agri SA is well recognised by government, organised business, organised labour and regional and international bodies as the spokesperson for South African agriculture. It is a member of Business Unity South Africa(BUSA), the International Chamber of Commerce, the International Federation of Agricultural Producers (IFAP), the Southern African Confederation of Agricultural Unions (SACAU) and the Cairns Group Farm Leaders. Agri SA participates in the Presidential Commercial Agriculture Working Group dealing with policy matters specifically in terms of the Strategic Plan for South African Agriculture. Media liaison activities and a strategic communication strategy are also maintained on various levels to promote understanding and support for the farmer and agriculture amongst the general public and the rest of the national economy. In order to fulfill its role, Agri SA focuses on the following priority areas: • labour and social welfare • commercial policy • safety and security
• natural resources • transformation • communication and imagebuilding
Projects: • Agri Securitas Trust Fund to promote a safer environment for farmers How does it benefit the individual farmer? In drawing up a balance sheet of Agri SA’s actions on behalf of the farmer it must be kept in mind that Agri SA primarily operates in a negotiating capacity and not so much through physical transfers or services. Whenever an agricultural issue is covered on radio or TV, for example, comment by an Agri SA spokesperson (usually the president) is sought. The actions of Agri SA are constantly focused on creating a favourable environment within which it will be possible for the farmer as entrepreneur to be financially independent.
Provincial Affiliations: Agri Eastern Cape Tel: 041 363 1890 Fax: 041 363 1896
[email protected] PO Box 34889 Newtonpark 6055 Free State Agriculture Tel: 051 444 4609 Fax: 051 444 4619
[email protected] PO Box 54 Bloemfontein 9300 www.vslandbou.co.za
Agri Wes-Cape Tel: 021 860 3800 Fax: 021 872 3388
[email protected] PO Box 227 Paarl 7620 www.awk.co.za Agri Northern Cape Tel: 053 832 9595 Fax: 053 832 7126
[email protected] PO Box 1094 Kimberley 8300
Agri Limpopo Tel: 014 763 1888 Fax: 014 763 6926
[email protected] PO Box 1668 Lephalale 0555
Affiliated commodity organisations Agronomy Dry Bean Producer’s Organisation Tel: 012 808 1660 Fax: 012 808 1662
[email protected] www.beans.co.za Forestry South Africa Medium Growers Group Tel: 033 46 0344 Fax: 033 346 0399
[email protected] Grain South Africa Tel: 056 515 2145 Fax: 086 509 7283
[email protected] www.grainsa.co.za
South Africa Cane Growers’ Association Tel: 031 508 7003 Fax: 031 508 7197
[email protected] www.sacanegrowers.co.za South Africa Cotton Growers’ Association Tel: 012 804 1462 Fax: 012 804 8616
[email protected] www.cottonsa.org.za Tobacco Institute of South Africa Tel: 021 421 0011 Fax: 021 421 0013
[email protected] www.tobaccosa.co.za
Animal production Milk Producers’ Organisation Tel: 012 843 5600 Fax: 012 804 4811
[email protected] www.mposa.co.za National Wool Growers’ Association Tel: 041 365 5030 Fax: 041 365 5035
[email protected] www.nwga.co.za Red Meat Producers’ Organisation Tel: 012 348 1933 Fax: 012 361 4430
[email protected] www.rpo.co.za South African Mohair Growers’ Organisation Tel: 049 835 0140 Fax: 049 836 0329
[email protected] www.mohair.co.za
South African Ostrich Business Chamber Tel: 044 272 3335 Fax: 044 272 3337
[email protected] www.ostrichsa.co.za South African Pork Producers’ Organisation Tel: 012 361 3920 Fax: 012 361 4069
[email protected] www.sapork.com Wildlife Ranching SA Tel: 012 335 6994 Fax: 012 325 1069
[email protected]
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National African Farmers’ Union of South Africa (NAFU SA)
Horticulture Banana Growers’ Association of South Africa Fax: 086 630 8940
[email protected] Citrus Growers’ Association of South Africa Tel: 031 765 2514 Fax: 031 765 8029
[email protected] www.cga.co.za Canning Fruit Producers’ Association Tel: 021 872 1401 Fax: 021 872 2675
[email protected] www.canningfruit.co.za HORTGRO SERVICES Tel: 021 870 2900 Fax: 021 870 2915
[email protected] www.hortgro.co.za Dried Fruit Technical Services Tel: 021 870 2925 Fax: 021 870 2915
[email protected] Hluhluwe Pineapple Growers’ Marketing Association Tel: 035 562 0731 Fax: 035 562 0777
[email protected] www.pineapples.co.za
Northern Cape Onion Producers’ Association Tel: 053 861 1145 Fax: 053 861 1145 (ask for fax)
[email protected] South African Nursery Growers’ Association Tel: 072 994 5368 Fax: 086 618 2343
[email protected] www.sana.co.za South African Subtropical Fruit Growers’ Association Tel: 015 307 3676 Fax: 015 306 1584
[email protected] Tomato Producers’ Organisation Tel: 015 395 8212 Fax: 015 395 2092
[email protected] VinPro Tel: 021 807 3121 Fax: 021 863 2079
[email protected] www.vinpro.co.za
President: Mr NJ Gondo - Tel: 082 672 2484 The National African Farmers Union (NAFU) was formed under the auspices of the National African Federated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NAFCOC). The main aim of the union was to facilitate entry of black farmers into the mainstream of agriculture by lobbying the then government and assisting black farmers to access land and other resources. Today these objectives have not been fully attained; however, the political and legislative environments have changed drastically, and there are programmes in place to address them. Over the years NAFU has grown as an organisation and has structures in all nine provinces of the republic. Mission To facilitate entry of black farmers into the mainstream of the economy through lobbying and advocacy, and by implementing development programmes aimed at ensuring their growth and sustainability. Objectives of the Union • to promote the interests of members and act as their mouthpiece; • to promote the acquisition by its members of agricultural land and lobby for appropriate tenure arrangements; • to ensure the removal of all legal restrictions which inhibit the activities of small and emerging farmers; • to facilitate access to finance and acquisition of resources; • to encourage and support the development of its members from subsistence to commercial agriculture through the formation inter alia of co-operatives and commodity groups; • to encourage better agricultural production practices and utilisation of agricultural resources; • to instil the spirit of enterprise in its members; • to engage in and facilitate the provision of training and skills development of its members.
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NAFU Programmes Over the past years NAFU focused its efforts on lobbying and advocacy specifically for land reform and access to finance and information by farmers. The organisation has reaffirmed its position as an important roleplayer in policy formulation. Following the recent strategy review, NAFU will now strive to strike a balance between its lobbying and advocacy efforts and implementing development programmes focusing on training of farmers, access to markets, and the formation of and support to commodity groups and co-operatives. NAFU programmes revolves around: • • • •
policy development in the areas of access to land and to finance; training of farmers; agricultural finance; access to markets and information, and strengthening commodity groups.
TAU SA President: Mr Ben Marais General Manager: Mr Bennie van Zyl Tel: 012 804 8031 Fax: 012 804 2014
[email protected] www.tlu.co.za An organised national agricultural organisation for the commercial farmers of South Africa HISTORY The former Transvaal Agricultural Union, now known as TAU SA During a committee meeting of the Pretoria Landbouw Maatskappij in 1896, the agenda provided for the founding of a Transvaal Agricultural Union. Actions spoke louder than words and the Transvaal Agricultural Union was established on September 29, 1897. At the fifth congress held by the Union in 1904 there was a plea for the establishment of a “Central Zuid Afrikaanse Landbouw Vereniging” (Central South African Agricultural Union). During July of that year the “sister colonies” were invited to Pretoria to discuss the matter where after SALU (the South African Agricultural Union) was established. During the sixth congress in 1905, held in Standerton, the TAU asked for the establishment of a Landbank which opened its doors on November 4, 1907. During the ninth congress the President emphasised some of the TAU’s success stories, such as the establishment of an agricultural school, so called “Proefboerderijen” (Onderstepoort test farming), the publishing of an agricultural magazine and many more. The initial service area of the TAU during the past century was the four northern provinces - North-, East-, Middle-, and Western Transvaal. TAU SA As a result of alterations to the constitution of SALU (the South African Agricultural Union), the affiliation of TAU (the Transvaal Agricultural Union) was cancelled. Disaffiliation gave rise to the decision taken by the General Council of TAU on the 19th of April 2000, to extend its service area to include the whole of South Africa. With this decision, the named changed to TAU SA. As a direct result of this decision, the TAU SA visited various provinces including the Free State, Eastern Cape, Western Cape, Northern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal where structures have been established. Regional Chairmen for seven of the nine statutory provinces were elected by the members in each province. Liaison and meetings in these provinces take place on a regular basis. Functions of TAU SA Issues of importance to the agricultural community as a whole are in the hands of highly knowledgeable committees, namely: Labour Affairs, Property Rights, Safety and Security, Energy, Conservation, Economic Affairs, Communication, Water Affairs, Education & Culture Affairs and Other. Several agricultural businesses, Produce organisations unions specialising in agriculture, are affiliated to TAU SA.
These committees function in a co-ordinate way to discuss problems and matters arising. Thereafter the necessary research and/or negotiation is done with feedback through the structure to individual members. The objectives of TAU SA may be summarised as: To organise members of TAU SA in a united front for the benefit of commercial agriculture as a profession and the preservation of that cultural way of life. Structure of TAU SA The highest policy-making body of TAU SA is the congress where the president and regional chairmen are annually elected. Members are represented from grass root level – Farmers Associations – through the structure, at the congress. Compilation of structures TAU SA membership can be obtained by means of application where, after approval, a member joins TAU SA via the Farmers Association which is affiliated to the District Agricultural Union, affiliated to TAU SA. The boundaries of District Agricultural Unions are in accordance to the former magisterial boundaries. Co-ordination of all Farmers Unions and District Agricultural Unions is the responsibility of the relevant Regional Chairman and Regional Manager. Rendering of services Problems and matters identified by members are handled collectively on several sectors of the TAU SA structure (depending on the degree thereof) on behalf of the individual farmer and agriculture as such. The route for handling matters will be firstly on Farmers Association level, thereafter the District level, die Provincial level and all national matters in a collective way on national level. Communication Two-way communication through the structure to and from head office on a daily basis. Communication mediums: • Web pages – www.tlu.co.za. Info regarding the services rendered by TAU SA as well as update press releases and international bulletins regarding relevant agricultural matters. • TAU SA International Bulletins. A bi-monthly bulletin in English with facts regarding the situation in SA with its effects on agriculture and the economy. This bulletin is being sent via e-mail to several contacts abroad. • TAU SA “Pitkos”. Every second week a “Pitkos” is sent to all members with e-mail in order to keep members updated regarding all activities of the organisation. • TAU SA news. Advertisements/articles are placed in the different agricultural publications when regarded necessary. • Radio Pretoria – “Protection of property rights”. 40 Minutes of airtime every second Tuesday with information regarding warnings on legislation, results and advice on agricultural matters. • Weekly participation in programmes on community radio stations, Overvaal Stereo (Monday) and Radio Laeveld (Thursday). • Media. Press releases and agricultural related articles are sent to newspapers, agriculture publications, radio and TV. • Structure. Electronic communication is being promoted and is successfully in use. Funding Funding of TAU SA is mainly through membership fees, sponsorship by agricultural businesses as well as the successful managing of various funding projects to the advantage of members.
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Bed and Breakfast Association of South Africa (BABASA) Tel: 082 239 2111 www.babasa.co.za
BABASA was established to unite the bed and breakfast industry nationwide. Individual establishments and associations are able to attain their full potential in matters such as national advertising, national networking, collective bargaining, representation at national level, staff training and other matters.
Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA) Tel: 012 342 2945/3642 Fax: 012 342 2946 www.fairtourismsa.org.za
The FTTSA has been involved with the development of agritourism clusters.
Farmstay Tel: 039 313 0770
[email protected] www.farmstay.co.za
Farmers who develop a facility on their farms for guests link up with Farmstay.
Tourism and travel in agriculture 1. Overview There are significant overlaps between agriculture and tourism. It can be a second revenue stream for your farm (diversification). Agricultural tours can be a valuable platform for local and overseas farmers to share knowledge and farming methods. • Only about 7% of foreign tourists stay on a farm in South Africa and yet South Africa has some of the most diversified farms in the world. Why? • Only about 2% of domestic tourists in South Africa stay on a farm and yet many South Africans have a farming heritage. Why? Tourism now contributes more to South Africa’s GDP than gold. Farmers can benefit more from this than they are presently doing. • Rural tourism is a concept which covers tourist activity devised and managed by local people, and based on the strengths of the natural and human environment. • Agritourism is a much narrower concept, referring to the different forms of tourism related to agrarian activities and/or buildings with an agrarian function. This particular form of rural tourism is, therefore, run by farmers, usually as a secondary activity, with farming remaining the principle occupation and source of income. • Often, a distinction is made between agritourism and the term farm tourism (farmstays), which is used to refer simply to the use of former farmhouses as tourist accommodation. • “Ecotourism is purposeful travel to natural areas to understand the cultural and natural history of the environment, taking care not to alter the integrity of the ecosystem, whilst producing economic opportunities that make conservation of natural resources financially beneficial to local citizens” (The Ecotourism Society, 1992). Source: Peter Myles, Tourism Specialist, Kyle Business Projects; former Director of the Tourism Research Unit at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. Myles has drafted recommendations drawn from the analyses of agritourism initiatives selected throughout the world which he generously shared with the National Agricultural Directory.
2. Associations involved Agricultural Tour Operators International (ATOI)
[email protected] www.atoi.org
ATOI is a worldwide association of tour operators that specialise in the business of agricultural travel. Agricultural travel is a specialised business, best organised by agricultural tour professionals. ATOI has 59 members in 33 countries. The website includes information relating to Worldtime, weather, currency and bankcodes.
Association of South African Travel Agents (ASATA) Tel: 011 327 7803
[email protected] www.asata.co.za Automobile Association of Refer to their website for a database of SA farm accommodation establishments Tel: 011 713 2000 that offer hands-on experience on a www.aatravel.co.za working farm.
Take the time to visit the website, a “fully electronic gateway to agricultural and ecotourism in South Africa”.
Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (FEDHASA) Tel: 011 467 5009
[email protected] www.fedhasa.co.za
FEDHASA endeavours at all times to ensure that the Association is recognised by all decision and policy makers in government and industry as the official unified voice of the Southern African hospitality industry.
The National Accommodation Association of South Africa (NAASA) Tel: 031 561 3795 www.naa-sa.co.za
NAASA membership is for smaller establishments who offer quality, reputable service and value for money. Establishments are inspected by provincial representatives to ensure professionalism and make sure the stay of guests is an enjoyable experience. Accommodation listings can be viewed on the website.
National Association of Conservancies and Stewardships of South Africa (NACSSA) www.nacsa.co.za
Conservancy status offers security benefits to farmers, encourages community co-operation and promotes regional tourism (see the chapter on conservancies in this directory). Many conservancies offer self-catering, fully catered or Bed & Breakfast options.
Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA) Tel: 086 127 2872 (Head Office) www.satsa.com
A non-profit member driven association. SATSA is committed to promoting SMME growth and dedicated to providing as much information to entrepreneurs wishing to start up in the tourism industry.
Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) Tel: 012 654 7525
[email protected] www.tbcsa.org.za Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) Tel: 011 783 0383/ 3108
[email protected] www.tourismgrading.co.za
Vacation Ownership Formerly Time Share Institute of Association of Southern South Africa Africa (VOASA) Tel: 021 914 9693 www.voasa.co.za
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3. National strategy and contacts Find the B-BBEE Tourism Sector Code at www.thedti.gov.za
Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Directorate: Business and Entrepreneurial Development Tel: 012 319 8460
[email protected] Department of Tourism Tel: 012 310 3911 www.tourism.gov.za • Directorate: Tourism Research and Information 012 310 2858
[email protected] • Directorate: Tourism Business Development 012 310 3893
[email protected] • Directorate: Tourism Sector Regulation 012 310 3687
[email protected] • International Tourism Relations 012 310 3354 pmolokoza@tourism. gov.za • Tourism Human Resource Capacity Building 012 310 3903
[email protected] • National Tourism Support 012 310 3614
[email protected] South African Tourism (SAT) is the official tourism marketing body for South Africa. Read about www.southafrica.net under heading 7. In South Africa tourist guiding activities are regulated by the Tourism Second Amendment Act, No.70 of 2000. According to the Act any person who wishes to be involved in the tourist guiding activity must be registered.
4. Training and research Bed and Breakfast Association of South Africa (BABASA) Tel: 082 239 2111 www.babasa.co.za
BABASA support includes ‘how to’ articles and workshops. Members are encouraged to mentor new entrants within their communities.
Birdlife South Africa Tel: 011 789 1122 www.birdlife.org.za
Birdlife South Africa runs an avicareer entrepreneurial programme, contributing “bird guides” to the eco-tourism industry. Graduates of the one-year course take tourists on South Africa’s numerous birding routes to spot the various species.
Institute for Tourism and Leisure Studies North West University Tel: 018 299 4140 www.tourisminstitute.co.za Kyle Business Projects Peter Myles: Tourism Specialist Tel: 041 582 5289
[email protected] www.kylebusiness.co.za
Co-operation between farming communities and tourism bodies would help to promote both sectors effectively. Myles suggested groups of farmers and local communities come together, assess what their surroundings have to offer and collectively approach tour operators to come to the area. Kyle Business Projects has been working with Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA) to develop agritourism clusters in rural areas.
The South African Tourism Institute (SATI) Tel: 011 803 6010
SATI was formed to spearhead tourism education and skills training. Publications on beginning your own tourist business are available from them.
Tourism Hospitality and Sports Education and Training Authority (THETA) Tel: 011 217 0600
[email protected] www.theta.org.za
THETA is the responsible Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) for tourism. Contact them for training providers, as well as for SMME support/advice.
Find out about the South Africa Fundi Tourism Expert Course at www.safundi.net. Your local tourism authority will also know about available training.
5. Companies involved Agricultural Tours Worldwide Tel: 082 447 7718 Fax: 086 553 8341
[email protected] www.agritoursandtravel.com
FUNDING This area is thoroughly covered in the Department of Tourism’s excellent handbook How to start and grow your own tourism business, which can be downloaded from www. tourism.gov.za
Elsenburg College of Agriculture Tel: 021 808 5457 www.elsenburg.com
The first college to offer intensive Agri tourism training
Canafrica Tours and Safaris Tel: 012 460 9440 Fax: 012 346 6967
[email protected]
Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA) Tel: 012 342 2945/3642 Fax: 012 342 2946 www.fairtourismsa.org.za www.fttsacertification.org.za
The FTTSA has been involved with the development of agritourism clusters.
Cape Agritours Tel: 021 887 4257
[email protected] www.capeagritours.co.za
Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) Tel: 011 313 3911 www.dbsa.org
Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) Tel: 011 886 8084 www.fgasa.org.za
FGASA is a non-profit organisation representing individual field guides, trackers and organisations involved in offering professional field guiding services to members of the public.
Complete Solutions Consultants Tel: 012 543 0425 Fax: 086 531 6108
Eastern Cape Development Corporation Tel: 043 704 5606
[email protected] Training, support and establishment of guides and black entrepreneurs
Getsmarter www.getsmarter.co.za
Read about the UCT Guest House Management Course, lasting 10 weeks and presented online.
Guttera Tours Tel: 012 804 7605 Fax: 012 333 24 28
[email protected] Kyle Business Projects Peter Myles: Tourism Specialist Tel: 041 582 5289
[email protected] www.kylebusiness.co.za
Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Tourism SBU Tel: 0860 693 888 www.idc.co.za Tourism Sectoral Focus
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Co-operation between farming communities and tourism bodies would help to promote both sectors effectively. Myles suggested groups of farmers and local communities come together, assess what their surroundings have to offer and collectively approach tour operators to come to the area. Kyle Business Projects has been working with Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA) to develop agritourism clusters in rural areas.
The Business Trust Tel: 011 612 2000
[email protected] www.btrust.org.za
Inbound Travel Services Africa www.itsa.co.za
TEP aims to facilitate the growth and expansion of small and medium size enterprises in the tourism economy, resulting in job creation and income generation opportunities.
The Meerkat Magic Project Tel: 044 272 3077 / 082 413 6895 www.meerkatmagic.com Grant McIIrath promotes a new concept in wildlife tourism. He does not focus on the Big Five in the Karoo – instead he focuses on the Shy Five! These are porcupines, bateared foxes, aardvarks, aardwolves and of course, meerkats. Safari & Tourism Insurance Brokers (SATIB) www.satib.co.za
The Tourist Enterprise Programme (TEP) is operated by the Business Trust and ECI-Business Linkage Centre. Tourism Enterprise Partnership (TEP) Tel: 011 880 3790 (Head Office) www.tep.co.za
Various Government departments (such as the DTI and the provincial tourism departments) have funding available for small or start-up businesses. Wesgro Tel: 021 487 8648 www.wesgro.co.za
Specialized Tours Tel: 021 418 2302
[email protected] www.specialtours.co.za The Emerging Tourism Entrepreneur of the Year Award (ETEYA) is an annual event which recognises emerging entrepreneurs for their ability to start up and run viable businesses. The winner is chosen from finalists from the nine provinces. TEP, a co-sponsor of the award, provides free consulting services to the finalists ensuring their tourism enterprises grow from strength to strength.
6. Websites and publications How to start and grow your tourism business is a handbook compiled by the Department of Tourism, which explains the various types of business assistance that is available to small businesses including financial assistance. This, and various other publications, can be accessed at www.tourism.gov. za (find the “Essential Downloads” option). Tourism in South Africa. In The New Millennium (Second Edition) – Marthinus Jordaan (Editor). Tel: 051 522 4770 (Editor). This publication is a comprehensive reference guide on the tourism industry and includes a whole chapter on farm holidays. Call 011 954 4675 / 082 488 5081 for the following publications, available from Bryan Peirce: • Tourism Development (Keyser) • Marketing South African Tourism and Hospitality (George) • Guides Guide to Guiding (Thompson) South African Tourism Services Association (SATSA) publications include: Tips To Ensure That Your Business Will Succeed; Developing An Accommodation
Establishment; Developing An Attraction; How Do I Register The Business Legally, And Why Should This Be Done?; How Do I Register A Domain Or Website Name? Your local tourism authority usually has various brochures and pamphlets about starting your own tourism business. Contact them, or try their website. Farms and eco-tourism • Website of Farmstay – www.farmstay.co.za • www.birdlife.org.za – read about birding eco-tours • www.honeywoodfarm.co.za – an interesting read of what is possible when a farmer incorporates tourism to the farm activities • Two websites effectively market farmstays in New Zealand i.e. www. nzfarmholidays.co.nz and www.ruralholidays.co.nz • See also www.hospitalityforum.co.za, a “unique information site for hospitality resources” General South African • www.southafrica.net – The official South African Tourism website – the “most comprehensive online source of information on travel to and in South Africa”. Read about the Welcome Awards – recognising service excellence in tourism – here. • Refer to the South African Travel Guide website for all regions – travel essentials, all towns and cities, an online provincial map, live online advice. www.southafrica.org.za • www.selfdrivesa.com – Tour South Africa and the region at your own pace with a large degree of flexibility. You can choose the type of car for hire, the standard of the accommodation, the time of the year to visit etc. • www.aatravel.co.za – AA Travel Guide. • www.bokbus.com – a five-day, four-night Garden Route tour • www.sagoodnews.co.za – a website which reports positive developments in South Africa. You can also subscribe to a weekly eNewsletter. Look for the Newsletter menu option on the website. • www.ecotravel.co.za – tourist information guide to Southern African Safari and adventure travel destinations • www.hostex.co.za – South Africa’s “International Hospitality & Catering Exhibition” International • For every possibly African tour – www.ananzi.co.za – take the “Travel” menu option. • www.wftga.org – World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations • Visit www.unwto.org, website of the United Nation’s World Tourism organisation.
7. Local business environment Few countries in the world have South Africa’s diverse farming diversity e.g. a capacity for the production of bananas (a tropical fruit) as well as cherries (which require a cold winter). In addition there is poultry as well as ostrich meat; wine and dry fruit, all the grain types, red meat and dairy products, and fresh potatoes throughout the year. In recent years vast stretches of land have been studied and improved to create new tourist destinations. Two factors contribute to the attractiveness of a tourism region: • the primary features (software) – climate, ecology, cultural attractions, traditional architecture, land forms; • the secondary destination features (hardware) – the developments introduced specifically for tourists such as hotels, catering, transport, activities and amusements.
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Attractions on a farm could include:
Overall, the requirements for an agritourism route include:
• Bed and Breakfast, self-catering accommodation • game viewing, hunting, bird watching, hiking, biking, 4 x 4 routes, fly fishing, boating, horse riding and many more • rounding up cattle, mustering sheep, dipping, dosing, inoculating, shearing • ploughing, planting, cultivating, harvesting • a nature-based tourism experience in an exclusive environment What can you offer in terms of arts and crafts, adventure, cultural, historic, agricultural, environmental, etc? Do some market research: • Who are your competitors? • What are they offering and at what price? The next tasks for research are: • Determine who your target customers are, demographically and psychographically. • How many of them are likely to visit you? • How often are they likely to visit you? • What would they like to experience? • How best do you reach them – cost effectively?
• • • • • • • • •
birth of a new agritourism destination tourism audit and analysis strategy development branding exercise based on International Best Practice development of theme routes electronic supported marketing/web page capacity building community involvement strategy follows structure
Source: Peter Myles, Tourism Specialist, Kyle Business Projects; former Director of the Tourism Research Unit at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. Myles has drafted recommendations drawn from the analyses of agritourism initiatives selected throughout the world which he generously shared with the National Agricultural Directory.
On the sunny northern slopes of the Amatola mountain range, 19 farmers have made over 31 000 hectares of beautiful farmland available for conservation and recreation. With sustainable Conservation as our main aim, we are blending agriculture and conservation into a homogeneous mixture that will benefit both the farmer and nature. We extend an invitation to those who love nature and the peace and tranquility of farm life to share our haven with us.
Consider the advantages of clustering: • There are huge advantages for marketing farmstays in South Africa if only farms in an area would co-operate in order to compete by forming an agritourism cluster. • This would facilitate developing a strong brand identity, corporate communications strategy, theme route and package tours e.g. wine route. • Independent farms may be successful in attracting independent travelers via a good interactive website, but generally tour operators prefer a cluster of attractions and accommodation for group tours.
Contact the Thomas River Conservancy at 082 575 4923 or visit www. thomasriver.com
Examples of clusters: • Thomas River Conservancy where nine farms clustered to form a 31 000 hectare conservancy built around the theme of the old railway village of Thomas River. • Kouga Canyons Conservancy – 35 farms clustered to form an historic conservation corridor linking the Baviaanskloof mega-reserve through the Kouga Mountains to Tsitsikamma and recreating an ancient wildlife migration route cut off by farming 250 years ago. Consider theme routes. In many parts of the world tourist routes have opened up new areas for exploration that have previously been bypassed by mainstream traffic travelling on national highways from one destination to another. Tourist routes comprise: • gateways and entry points • staging posts
• destinations • distribution points
Consider signing concepts: • normal tourism advance turn signs – turn off, in/onto tourism route or area • “Welcome” signs – entry points • confirmation signs – leaving a town • Tourist Route marker signs • Information Points – strategic road junctions
Source: www.agritourismsa.co.za/contacts.htm
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Resources and Good Agricultural Practice
Biodiversity 1. Overview Biodiversity describes the variety of life in an area, including: • • • •
the number of different species; the genetic wealth within each species; the interrelationships between them; the natural areas where they occur.
If food production is to keep pace with population growth, without degrading the ecosystem services necessary to sustain it, sustainable agricultural practices must be widely adopted. Policymakers and consumers must do their part to ensure that farmers and other agricultural producers have the right incentives to adopt these. Why we need to create sustainable agricultural systems: • Biodiversity is the basis of agriculture. Its maintenance is essential for the production of food and other agricultural goods and the benefits these provide humanity, including food security, nutrition and livelihoods. • Biodiversity is the origin of all crops and domesticated livestock and the variety within them. Biodiversity in agricultural and associated landscapes provides and maintains ecosystem services essential to agriculture. • Agriculture contributes to the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity but is also a major driver of biodiversity loss. Farmers and agricultural producers are custodians of agricultural biodiversity and possess the knowledge needed to manage and sustain it. • Sustainable agriculture both promotes and is enhanced by biodiversity. Sustainable agriculture uses water, land and nutrients efficiently, while producing lasting economic and social benefits. Barriers inhibiting its widespread adoption need to be reduced. • Agricultural producers respond to consumer demands and government policies. To ensure food security, adequate nutrition and stable livelihoods for all, now and in the future, we must increase food production while adopting sustainable and efficient agriculture, sustainable consumption, and landscape-level planning that ensure the preservation of biodiversity. Global treaties provide concrete examples of strategies to stem the loss of biodiversity. South Africa too has a national strategy for biodiversity conservation, governed by the legislation and policy. Find out more in the Environment chapter. In the belief that any national conservation strategy must take account of the role of farmers in conservation, we present the reader with this important chapter.
2. Biodiversity and South Africa South Africa’s biomes – see map on opposite page South Africa has a wide range of climatic conditions and many variations in topography (e.g. narrow coastal plain, steep escarpment, large plateau). In combination, climate and topography give rise to broad vegetation zones which, together with their associated animal life, are called biomes. These are the Succulent Karoo, Desert, Nama-Karoo, Fynbos, Forest, Grassland, Savanna, Albany Thicket and Indian Ocean Coastal Belt biomes. Each of these supports its own collection of plant and animal species. The Karoo, for example, is home to plants and animals well suited to hot, dry conditions such as the gemsbok and succulent plants. The fynbos biome is home to a variety of plants that are suited to a mediterranean climate and the poor soils of the south Western Cape.
Value of biodiversity South Africa’s biodiversity provides an important basis for economic growth and development, in obvious ways such as providing a basis for our fishing industry, and rangelands that support commercial and subsistence farming. Less obvious, though just as important, is the need to keep biodiversity intact to ensure the ongoing provision of ecosystem services – the benefits that humans obtain from ecosystems. We take many of these benefits for granted, like clean air and water or the prevention of erosion or flooding. The social and economic costs of not managing ecosystems in a sustainable manner are high, as demonstrated through land degradation, loss of ecosystem resilience, loss of freshwater resources, the intensification of the global carbon cycle and resulting climate change, the loss of fishing stock and the deterioration of air quality. Ecosystem services fall into four categories: • Provisioning services (e.g. purified water, food, drugs and genetic resources) • Regulating services (e.g. flood attenuation, prevention of erosion, pest control and pollination of agricultural crops and natural vegetation) • Supporting services (e.g. primary production, nutrient cycling, carbon storage) • Cultural services (e.g. recreational, spiritual and cultural benefits) According to the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment published in 2006, the added value of ecosystems in the production of biological resources, as well as the final consumption of ecosystems was conservatively estimated in 2005 at a baseline reference value of R27 billion per annum, or R20 000 per terrestrial km2, with a spread of around R30 000/km2 for savannas and grasslands to R5 500 per km2 for the Karoo. Indirect use values (mostly notably grazing and pollination inputs) account for two thirds of this value, while direct consumptive use values (nature’s share of timber resources, aquatic resources, crops and plant resources and animal resources) account for 28% and nonconsumptive use (nature based tourism) for 6% of total value. Threats to biodiversity Unfortunately this immense natural wealth is under extreme pressure resulting from human demands placed on the environment. Threats to fauna, flora and ecosystem functioning in South Africa include: • • • • • • • • • •
indiscriminate agricultural, industrial and urban development invasive plants and animals loss and degradation of natural habitat overextraction of water resources unsustainable use of resources, including marine organisms and wildflowers poor management of fires pollution climate change lack of baseline information (some 70% of invertebrate fauna remains undiscovered and described) concerns have also been raised concerning the use of GMO crops
3. Bioregional programmes and agriculture The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) was established on 1 September 2004 under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, with special responsibility for biodiversity matters – relating to the full diversity of South Africa’s fauna and flora. As part of the SANBI’s Biodiversity Mainstreaming Division, bioregional and ecosystem programmes have been established, using a partnership approach to mainstream biodiversity in socio-economic development that includes agricultural role-players. These are: • Cape Action for People and the Environment (CAPE) in the fynbos biome • The Succulent Karoo Ecosystem Programme (SKEP) • The Grasslands Programme • Eastern Cape Province (encompassing six biomes).
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Cape Action for People and the Environment (CAPE)
Succulent Karoo Ecosystem Programme (SKEP)
CAPE works through a landscape-level approach to conservation and involves landowners and their representative bodies through the work of the steering committees of the following initiatives: the Baviaanskloof Megareserve, the Garden Route Initiative, the Gouritz Initiative, the Agulhas Biodiversity Initiative, the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, the Cape West Coast Biosphere Reserve and the Greater Cederberg Biodiversity Corridor.
The Succulent Karoo Ecosystem Programme (SKEP) is an overarching framework for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development of the Succulent Karoo Hotspot (SKH). Currently housed within SANBI, SKEP is looking at conserving the SKH which is an area that has a wealth of unique biodiversity but has also been severely damaged by human activities such as mining, overgrazing and ostrich farming.
In each of these areas, issues around biodiversity on agricultural land are dealt with through: • working with farmers to set aside valuable biodiversity on their land through entering into conservation stewardship agreements (see heading 4); • business and biodiversity initiatives to promote sustainable farming practices in particular industries including rooibos, potatoes, indigenous flowers and wine (see heading 5). Read more at www.capeaction.org.za
One of the four strategic actions in the strategy is Expanding protected areas and improving conservation management, particularly through the expansion of public-private-communal-corporate partnership. Under this direction, SKEP is working towards promoting and facilitating innovative programmes involving local landowners in the creation of effective conservation areas within the priority areas and throughout the region. Through a US$ 8 million grant that was awarded to the programme by the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) many projects focusing on the sustainability of land in the Succulent Karoo have been funded. These projects include creating a provincial nature reserve, developing land use management plans for overgrazed areas, working with landowners to sign stewardship agreements, developing best practice guidelines, and working
Map Citation: Mucina, L. & Rutherford, M.C. (eds) 2006. The vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. Strelitzia 19. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria. 800 pp.
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with those in the South African mining, agriculture and tourism sectors to promote formal biodiversity conservation areas. Read more at www.skep.org
Grasslands Programme The Grasslands Programme seeks to identify and promote biodiversitycompatible land uses. Grazing of cattle, sheep and indigenous game species have been identified as the most compatible agricultural activities in the biome. Market-related and other incentives will be investigated as means for promoting biodiversity-compatible land uses in the biome and these will be piloted during the implementation of this programme, which runs from 2007-2012. The programme works to incorporate biodiversity priority areas into planning and decision-making; develop biodiversity management tools for cultivation and grazing; design demonstration projects, communications and advocacy; initiate range-fed red meat certification; and promote incentives, e.g. property rates exemption. Read more at www.grasslands.org.za and in the Rangelands chapter.
SANBI has a pilot project on biodiversity stewardship and land reform. SANBI’s bioregional programmes engage with the agriculture sector around biodiversity and sustainable farming. SANBI stewardship / land reform project Lubabalo Ntsholo Tel: 021 799 8817
[email protected]
4. Conservation stewardship See also the Conservancies chapter South Africa has much valuable biodiversity outside of protected areas, but this is disappearing at an alarming rate. It is clearly not possible for government to purchase all the land identified as high priority in terms of habitat or threatened ecosystems to add it to our system of state-owned protected areas. Biodiversity stewardship provides a new cost-effective way for government to carry out its existing conservation mandate, by getting landowners to commit to conserving and managing the biodiversity on their own land. This includes private farms, communal lands and land owned by national / provincial government departments, municipalities, parastatals like Eskom and Spoornet and private companies. Past stewardship programmes have had limited long-term success, with a confusing and cumbersome system that included up to 25 stewardship options, and lacked legal security. The new biodiversity stewardship approach provides a small number of simple, legally-aligned options nationwide and ensures that landowners benefit from participation. Participating landowners in the existing Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal programmes may receive incentives to commit their property to one of three stewardship options through the relevant conservation authority – a Contract Nature Reserve, a Biodiversity Agreement or a Voluntary Conservation Area. Landowners work with conservation authorities to agree on a conservation management plan that involves managing invasive alien species, controlling fires, encouraging sustainable grazing, farming or harvesting, and avoiding further land transformation; and they receive assistance through extension services.
Biodiversity Stewardship South Africa The Biodiversity Stewardship South Africa (BSSA) programme is an initiative of the national Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) in partnership with key conservation organisations, in particular the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT). Biodiversity Act (No. 10 of 2004). The programme helps to implement provincial conservation plans through a consistent, national, landscape-scale approach to stewardship. It also assists government in meeting the targets set out by the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment and the National Biodiversity Framework (NBF).The BSSA’s goals are aligned with those of DEA’s National Protected Areas Expansion Strategy and Community-Based Natural Resource Management programme. Stewardship in Cape Nature To date the Stewardship Programme has secured: • 31 Contract Nature Reserves • 16 Biodiversity Agreements • 18 Voluntary Conservation Areas For more info, visit www.capenature.org.za
5. Business and biodiversity Over the past few years, conservationists worldwide have identified the need to “mainstream” biodiversity by integrating biodiversity conservation into systems where the primary focus is on production. In South Africa this has meant a growing engagement between the business and conservation sectors and the development of some innovative models of “biodiversityfriendly” business, mostly in agriculture. Industries where business and biodiversity initiatives have become well established are the wine, fishing, honey, indigenous cutflower, sugar, rooibos tea and potato industries, with emerging initiatives in the red meat and citrus industries. Initiatives in these industries fit in at various stages along the value chain, and involve market mechanisms such as those depicted below. The commitments are referred to as “voluntary” in the sense that they are not legislated requirements or regulatory mechanisms. PRODUCERS voluntary producer commitments
PRODUCTS
RETAILERS
eco-labelling / procurement advice
voluntary procurement commitments
CONSUMERS consumer awareness campaigns
The major players in these initiatives are: • conservation non-governmental organisations (NGOs) based in South Africa e.g. the EWT, the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Conservation International and the World Conservation Union; • South Africa’s government- and donor-funded bioregional conservation programmes – CAPE, SKEP and the Grasslands Programme; • industry roleplayers from South African companies and multinationals represented in the country, as well as some of the major retailers; • landowners and producer associations who want to practice sustainable farming and conserve biodiversity on their land.
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Best practice guidelines for the potato industry Potato production is the core economic activity of the Sandveld region in the western lowland area of the Greater Cederberg Biodiversity Corridor. In response to growing consumer awareness and constraints on the industry including water scarcity, a set of draft guidelines was released in mid-2007 as a joint initiative of Potatoes South Africa and CapeNature, with active participation from retailers across the market, including Freshmarket, Woolworths, Pick ‘n Pay and a local chip factory. These best practice guidelines are aimed at stimulating greater awareness amongst producers and promoting responsible farming practices in support of biodiversity conservation. They include sections on general farming and biodiversity-friendly practices, soil management, irrigation practices, fertilisation practices and integrated pest management. The guidelines initiative is co-funded by the industry, Conservation International and retail chain Woolworths. Woolworths has committed itself to using geospatial information available through SANBI to determine which potato-growing areas are suitable for this land use, and incorporating this information into their buying policy. For more info, visit www.cederbergcorridor.org.za
Biodiversity and Wine Initiative South Africa is the world’s eighth largest producer of wine, with approximately 90% of wine production occurring within the Cape Floristic Region. With export markets opening up for South African wines, there was a 15% increase in land under vines from 1990-2000, and today vineyards cover over 100 000 hectares. With only 9% of lowland renosterveld and fynbos remaining, conservationists became concerned by this new wave of viticultural expansion. Following a study by the Botanical Society of South Africa and Conservation International, the wine industry and the conservation sector formed a partnership in the Biodiversity and Wine Initiative (BWI). The BWI developed biodiversity guidelines for the industry, which were adopted by the Integrated Production of Wine accreditation system in 2004. Wines of South Africa, the official marketing arm of the industry, has been able to use the BWI as a marketing angle for South African wines, emphasizing that both the wines and the flora of the Cape are unusually diverse as a result of the varied topography, soils and micro-climates of the region. With the marketing slogan “Variety is in our nature”, the Cape Floral Kingdom is providing a unique selling point in a highly competitive global market. For more information, visit www.bwi.co.za
The costs of these initiatives and the biodiversity conservation measures they involve, while in some cases partially funded by donors, are increasingly being covered by the premium prices these producers are able to charge for their products in niche markets, sometimes overseas. They have achieved this through marketing their products as biodiversity-friendly, participating in labelling and certification schemes or working through international trade organisations that accredit producers. GreenChoice Alliance www.panda.org.za GreenChoice is a national alliance that promotes sustainable production and harvesting in South Africa, by supporting the profitability, competitiveness and sustainability of environmentally sound products. GreenChoice works in partnership with business and biodiversity projects, government, farmers, scientists, retailers and consumers, to limit the impacts of food and fibre production on terrestrial and marine habitats. GreenChoice: retailers and consumers Tatjana von Bormann Tel: 021 789 2583
[email protected]
GreenChoice: producers and industry Heidi-Jayne Hawkins Tel: 021 799 8832
[email protected]
6. Roleplayers Consultants and businesses Anchor Environment Consultants Tel: 021 650 3609 www.uct.ac.za/depts/zoology/ anchor Bushveld Eco Services Tel: 014 717 3819 www.bushveldeco.co.za Crystal Clear Tel: 011 640 6445
[email protected] Eco Africa Tel: 021 448 3778 www.ecoafrica.co.za Eco Scapes Tel: 011 805 5342 www.ecoscapes.com Envirokonsult Tel: 012 349 1792 www.envirokonsult.co.za
Imbewu Enviro-legal Specialists Tel: 011 325 4928 www.imbewu.co.za Janet Edmonds Consulting Tel: 082 828 7953
[email protected] MBB Services International Tel: 021 887 1026 www.mbb.co.za Mvelo Development Tel: 033 345 3146 Strategic Environmental Focus (SEF) Tel: 012 349 1307 www.sefsa.co.za Worth, Valerie Cell: 074 671 9203
[email protected]
Grow Wild (Pty) Ltd Tel: 011 465 8857 www.growwild.co.za An indigenous/native nursery
Associations, societies and NGOs Biowatch Tel: 031 206 2954 www.biowatch.org.za
Grassland Society of Southern Africa Tel: 049 842 4335 www.grassland.org.za
Botanical Society of South Africa Tel: 021 797 2090 IUCN-SA www.botanicalsociety.org.za Tel: 012 342 8304/5/6 www.iucn.org Cape Action for People and the Environment (CAPE) Find the webpages of the South Tel: 021 799 8790 African office on the International www.capeaction.org.za Union for Conservation of Nature website Earthlife Africa Tel: 011 339 3662 Landmark Foundation www.earthlife.org.za Cell: 083 324 3344 www.landmarkfoundation.org.za Ecolink Tel: 013 751 2120 National Association of www.ecolink.co.za Conservancies and Stewardships of South Africa (NACSSA) – Endangered Wildlife Trust find national and provincial contact Tel: 011 486 1102 details in the Conservancy chapter www.ewt.org.za or visit www.nacsa.org.za Entomological Society of Resource Africa Southern Africa. Write to “The Tel: 012 342 9242 / 52 Honorary Secretary, PO Box www.resourceafrica.org 13162, Hatfield, 0028” or visit http://journals.sabinet.co.za/essa Environmental Monitoring Group – EMG Tel: 027 218 1117 www.emg.org.za Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife Tel: 033 845 1999 / 1003 www.kznwildlife.com
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Simply Indigenous Nursery Tel/fax: 012 207 1077 Cell: 082 921 8946 www.simplyindigenous.co.za
Wildlands Conservation Trust Tel: 033 343 6380 www.wildlands.co.za
Wildlife & Environment Society Promotes indigenous South African Of South Africa (WESSA) plants as a first choice and expand Tel: 033 330 3931 the propagation of threatened www.wessa.org.za species. Find details of contacts countrywide South African Faith on the website. Communities Environment Institute WWF South Africa Tel: 021 701 8145 Tel: 021 888 2800 www.safcei.org.za www.panda.org.za www.wwf.org.za South African New Economics Network (SANE) The Zoological Society of South Tel: 021 762 5933 Africa (ZSSA) www.sane.org.za www.zssa.co.za Wilderness Foundation of Southern Africa Tel: 041 373 0293 www.wildernessfoundation.org.za
School environmental programmes Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) Graeme Wilson / Janet Snow Tel: 011 486 1102
SANParks Tel: 012 426 5000 www.sanparks.org/people/ education
Environmental Education and Resources Unit Tel: 021 959 2498/3274 www.botany.uwc.ac.za/eeru
Wildlife and Environment Society SA Eco-schools National Coordinators: Caroline ConwayPhysick and Bridget Ringdahl Tel: 033 330 3931 www.wildlifesociety.org.za
Environmental Education Association of Southern Africa (EEASA) Tel: 033 330 3931 ext 122 www.eeasa.org.za SANBI Biodiversity Education and Empowerment Division Donavan Fullard Tel: 021 799 8696 www.sanbi.org
WWF South Africa Ziyanda Mfanta Tel: 021 888 2800 / 33 www.panda.org.za www.wwf.org.za
The Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) www.environment.gov.za The National Environmental Education Programme (NEEP) is a collaborative project co-ordinated by the Department of Education. Its purpose is to support teachers in implementing environmental education at schools, and integrate it with the outcomes-based curriculum. DEA supports NEEP with resource materials on contemporary environmental issues. SADC Regional Environmental Education Programme The purpose of the Regional Environmental Education Programme is to enable environmental education practitioners in the SADC region to strengthen environmental education processes for equitable and sustainable environmental management choices. DEA supports and contributes towards enhancing and strengthening environmental education policy, networking, the development of resource materials and capacity-building. Read more at www.sadc-reep.org.za.
Research and training Africa Land-Use Training Tel: 014 717 3812 / 078 228 0008
[email protected] Agricultural Research Council www.arc.agric.za The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) undertakes a range of research activities with implications for biodiversity e.g. its Plant Protection Research Institute is the custodian of the South African Rhizobium Culture Collection and the National Collections of Arachnids, Fungi, Insects and Nematodes. Cape Peninsular University of Technology (CPUT) Tel: 021 460 3196 www.cput.ac.za
The Plant Genetic Resources Centre (PGRC) National Gene Bank Tel: 012 808 5387
[email protected] South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity Tel: 046 603 5800 www.saiab.ac.za Stellenbosch University Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology Tel: 021 808 3728 www.sun.ac.za Sustainability Institute Tel: 021 881 3196 www.sustainabilityinstitute.net
University of South Africa (UNISA) Find the Environmental Department of Environmental Management programme run by Sciences the Faculty of Applied Sciences on Tel: 011 471 3222 the website. www.unisa.ac.za Consortium for Estuarine Research and Management www.upe.ac.za/cerm
A short learning programme for Environmental Management Inspectors (EMI) is offered. Write to
[email protected]. To Council for Scientific and enquire about the three different Industrial Research (CSIR) honours programmes, write to www.csir.co.za
[email protected]. Find the “Natural resources & University of the Western Cape the environment” option on the Community Based Natural website. Resource Management Tel: 021 959 3961 Fynbos Forum www.cbnrm.uwc.ac.za Tel: 021 797 2090 797 University of Cape Town Delta Enviro Institute for Plant Conservation Tel: 011 888 4831 Tel: 021 650 2440 www.deltaenviro.org.za www.uct.ac.za/depts/ipc Green Futures Tel: 028 384 8059 www.greenfutures.co.za
University of the Free State Department Zoology and Entomology Tel: 051 401 9219 / 2427
Horticultural and Life Skills College with an emphasis on the long-term Department of Plant Sciences conservation of the Cape’s unique Tel: 051 401 2514
[email protected] flora Indigo Development & Change Tel: 027 218 1148 www.indigo-dc.org Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) Terrestrial Ecology Research Unit Tel: 041 504 2424
Department of Genetics Tel: 051 401 2595 / 2776 / 3978 Water Research Commission (WRC) Tel: 012 330 0340 www.wrc.org.za Wild Coast Farm & Forest Tel: 044 534 8827 / 083 700 8612
[email protected]
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Biodiversity Ecosystem Services Project
Government
SANBI also has a Biodiversity Ecosystem Services Project which explores the benefits that humans obtain from ecosystems. The vast majority of these services are usually taken for granted, for example pollination of crops and natural vegetation, purification of water, flood attenuation and nutrient cycling. The unit was started in November 2006, and aims to find the links between biodiversity and ecosystem services, identify thresholds of habitat loss at which provision of ecosystem services by natural systems fail and to identify biodiversity-friendly farming practices.
A number of departments and agencies have responsibility for matters relating to biodiversity and agriculture, including the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries; the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform; the Department of Water Affairs; the Department of Environmental Affairs; and Tourism, the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, the South African National Biodiversity Institute, the provincial departments of agriculture and land affairs, and the provincial conservation agencies.
One of their areas of focus is critical to agriculture – looking at pollination ecosystem services. Insect pollination is essential in the production of several agricultural crops. These include plants that require pollination for fruit and seed production as well as those where fruit quality is enhanced and seed propagation of plants used for commercial grazing. Although all animal pollinators are important in the maintenance of natural biodiversity, this is an ecosystem function and not a service. For more info, visit www.sanbi.org/research/besp.htm
Biosystematic Research SANBI, Natural Science Museums, Research Councils and universities are undertaking biosystematic research. Biosystematic research contributes towards meeting the State’s obligation to the requirements of the International Convention on Biological Diversity in discovering, describing and documenting the biodiversity of South Africa. Natural Science Collections. The Natural History Collections in South Africa are among the most important and comprehensive biological and taxonomic reference resources of their kind in Africa. The collections are a priceless indigenous biological resource to enable scientists to address South Africa’s need for information on pest control, conservation and the sustainable use of advantageous organisms. The maintenance, safeguarding and development of natural science collections and associated biological reference resources are of strategic importance to natural resource management and biodiversity conservation in South Africa. SABI – South African Biosystematics Initiative. Visit the National Research Foundation’s website for details, www.nrf.ac.za, or phone 012 481 4056/4079. SABIF – South African Biodiversity Information Facility Tel: 012 481 4017 www.sabif.ac.za National Surveys. Several National surveys are undertaken in the country: • • • • • • •
Botanical survey Bird atlasing Retile atlasing Butterfly Survey South African National Survey of Arachnida South African Plant Parasitic Nematode Survey South African Alien Invasive Plant survey
Role of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) – www.daff.gov.za Included in DAFF’s programmes are LandCare, WaterCare and VeldCare to promote the wise use of resources. • Mr J Kgobokoe, Director: Education, Training and Extension Services, Tel: 012 319 7328,
[email protected] • Ms MJM Gabriel, Director: Water Use and Irrigation Development, Tel: 012 846 8567/9,
[email protected] • Mr D du Toit, Director: Production and Resource Economics (Acting), Tel: 012 319 8088,
[email protected] • Ms JK Moeng, Director: Land Settlement, Tel: 012 319 8496, dls@daff. gov.za • Mr ME Morokolo, Deputy Director-General: Livelihoods, Economics and Business Development (Acting), Tel: 012 319 7211, ddglebd@daff. gov.za Role of the Department of Environmental Affairs www.environment.gov.za The Biodiversity and Conservation Branch of the Department of Environmental Affairs (under the Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs) has the role of ensuring the regulation and management of all biodiversity, heritage and conservation matters. • Mr Fundisile Mketeni, Deputy Director-General: Biodiversity And Conservation, Tel: 012 310 3314/3315
[email protected] • Ms Skumsa Mancotywa, Chief Directorate: Transfrontier Conservation And Protected Areas, Tel: 012 310 3606, smancotywa@environment. gov.za • Ms Wadzi Mandivenyi Tel: 012 310 3395 wmandivenyi@environment. gov.za • Ms Wilma Lutsch, Directorate: Biodiversity Conservation, Tel: 012 310 3694,
[email protected] • Mr Muleso Kharika, Directorate: Resource Use, Tel: 012 310 3578,
[email protected] Indalo Yethu Tel: 012 665 1457 www.indaloyethu.co.za “South Africa’s environmental campaign” Department of Water Affairs www.dwaf.gov.za The Department of Water Affairs (under the Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs) is the custodian of South Africa’s water and forestry resources responsible for the formulation and implementation of policy governing these two sectors. Managing water resources wisely through the establishment of Catchment Management Agencies is critically important to both agriculture and biodiversity. The Resource Directed Measures Branch provides a framework to ensure sustainable utilisation of water resources to meet ecological, social and economic objectives. Ms Julie Van der Merwe Tel: 012 336 7128
[email protected]
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Role of SANBI www.sanbi.org The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is an independent statutory organisation with special responsibility for biodiversity matters, established in 2004 through the signing into force of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act. The Act expanded the mandate of SANBI’s forerunner, the National Botanical Institute, to include responsibilities relating to the full diversity of South Africa’s fauna and flora, and built on the internationally respected programmes in conservation, research, education and visitor services developed over the past century by the National Botanical Institute. SANBI has a pilot project on biodiversity stewardship and land reform. SANBI’s bioregional programmes also engage with the agriculture sector around biodiversity and sustainable farming – see headings 3 and 4.
Provincial Nature Conservation, parks and museums Cape Nature Conservation (W Cape)
021 483 3539
Eastern Cape Parks
043 705 4400
Northern Cape Nature Conservation
053 355 1557
Free State Department of Environmental Affairs and 051 447 0407 Tourism Gauteng Nature Conservation
011 355 1464
Mpumalanga Parks Board
013 759 5300
Limpopo Department of Finance, Economic Affairs, 015 293 8568 Tourism and Environment North West Environment
Agriculture,
Conservation
and 014 592 7378
KwaZulu-Natal Nature Conservation Service
033 845 1999
South African National Parks (SANParks) Tel: 012 426 5000 www.sanparks.org Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Project Tel: 033 239 1880 http://maloti.opencms.co.za A collaborative initiative between South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho to protect the exceptional biodiversity of the Drakensberg and Maloti mountains. Some museums are involved with biodiversity programmes. Visit www. museums.org.za for details.
International roleplayers in promotion of agricultural biodiversity: Convention on Biological Diversity – www.cbd.int South African Environmental Observation Network – www.nrf.ac.za/ saeon/links.html Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) – www.biodiversity.org Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) – www. fao.org SADC Plant Genetic Resources Centre (SPGRC) – www under construction. International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI) – www.ipgri.cgiar. org Non-Governmental Organisations e.g. www.singer.cgiar.org International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and agriculture (ITPGRFA) – www.fao.org/ag/cgrfa/itpgr.htm African Conservation Foundation – www.africanconservation.com Bioversity International – www.bioversityinternational.org
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7. Websites and publications The information under this heading could be so extensive that it would not be helpful at all, and has been drastically shortened. The reader is encouraged to: • google relevant words like “biodiversity” and “environment”; • refer to the Publications and websites heading in other chapters in this section, “Resources and Good Agricultural Practice”; • visit the websites of roleplayers mentioned in this chapter. Find articles like “Conserving biodiversity saves farming” and “Eco-cash for land users” on www.farmersweekly.co.za Veld & Flora – the monthly journal of the Botanical Society. Call 021 797 2090. http://karoospace.co.za/karoo – visit a website promoting the Karoo. Cultivating Biodiversity. Harold Brookfield, Christine Padoch, Helen Parsons and Michael Stocking. Publisher: ITDG Publishing, 2002. ISBN: 1853394939. The book draws on the experience of demonstration sites that are the farmers’ own enterprises, combining superior production along with enhancement of biological diversity. It is based on work in 12 countries with more than 200 collaborating scientists and about 2500 collaborating farmers, showing how its authors perceive and quantitatively analyse agrodiversity, and how they work together with farmers. The new magazine Environment – People and Conservation in Africa replaces the former African Wildlife (Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa – WESSA) and Vision (Endangered Wildlife Trust – EWT). Seven NGOs launched the new magazine at a function in Sandton in November, 2009. They were the Cape Leopard Trust, Game Rangers Association of Africa, SANCCOB, the Wildlands Conservation Trust and the Wilderness Foundation of South Africa, WESSA and the EWT. Property Rates On Conservation Land: Framework For Landowner Negotiations With Municipalities. A document produced by the Biodiversity & Wine Initiative which looks at options for farmers with land set-aside for biodiversity conservation. Contact Sue Winter at 021 886 8428 or Tony Hansen at 021 780 1066.
• Find the Natural Resource Atlas on www.agis.agric.za. This atlas provides information on soil, terrain, geology, climate, vegetation and near-real time data of veld fires in South Africa. • www.nrf.ac.za/saeon/links.html – the South African Environmental Observation Network portal. Find links to government departments, universities, science councils and institutions, environment science initiatives, conservation agencies, Southern African Organisations and International Organisations. • www.africa-geographic.com – Africa Geographic is South Africa’s leading wildlife and environmental magazine (formerly Africa – Environment and Wildlife). Visit the associated website for additional information not found in the magazine and for online shopping for books, videos and other wildlife/environment essentials. • www.plantzafrica.com – A site describing plants, vegetation types and the uses of South Africa plant species. • The printed copy or the electronic version of Enviropaedia – www. enviropaedia.com – contains an encyclopaedia, a database of environmental and other organisations involved in sustainable development and more. • Global Biodiversity Information Facility – www.gbif.org • From 1999 to 2003, the then National Botanical Institute (now SANBI) co-ordinated the Conservation Farming Project, which was a targeted research programme supported by the GEF and the Mazda Wildlife Fund. Find out more at www.sanbi.org/consfarm Red Data Books (RDBs) are lists of threatened plants and animals specific to a certain region. They are a vital source of information in guiding land-use decision making and conservation planning. South Africa has produced 5 RDBs dealing with each of the following: birds, land mammals, fishes (fresh water and estuarine only), reptiles and amphibians, and butterflies. There are also RDBs by Hilton-Taylor and Golding on plants. Southern Africa has 582 national parks and nature reserves covering 6% of the region. More than 90% of the region’s birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles occur in this network of protected areas. However, only 34% of plants are protected. There is an urgent need to extend the network of conservation areas to include unprotected plants.
Our thanks to Caroline Peterson and SANBI for going the extra mile once again
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Resources and Good Agricultural Practice
Biological Farming Refer also to the Conservation Agriculture, Earthworms and Vermicompost, Compost and Organic Fertilisers and the Organic Farming chapters.
1. Overview • Biological farming utilises resources of both science and nature in a superior farming system. • Biological farming works with nature to maximise nature’s power in producing a crop. • Biological farming is a process aimed at restoring or improving soil life, soil structure and mineralising the soil. Improving the soil’s health in turn improves the health of plant, livestock and human. • Biological farmers avoid using harmful chemicals like herbicides, pesticides and certain fertilisers that destroy soil life. A biological farmer might use less poisonous chemicals in an emergency to save a crop, but will also take measures to restore soil life by using products like compost tea and microbes to “clean” the soil of harmful chemicals. • The benefits of biological farming are numerous. To start with, it results in a reduced need for inorganic fertilisers and pesticides. Despite the reduced chemical inputs, biological farmers most often experience an increase in yields. Of paramount importance is that the produce is of a higher quality. The consumer’s demands for healthy food is growing at an exponential rate, as is the willingness to pay a premium price for it. • Biological farming is 80% down the road to organic farming – it is a relatively easy matter for a well-established biological farmer to switch over to organic farming. • Biological farming is sustainable. The Rules of Biological Farming • test and balance soils using at least 21 parameters – Albrecht system • use only soil friendly fertilisers • use minimum herbicides and pesticides • use sound tillage practices • use legumes in crop rotations • use compost and compost tea Source: www.sabiofarm.co.za (adapted)
2. Roleplayers Agron Efficient Microbes Tel: 013 262 6671 Tel: 031 266 2935 www.agronnutritionalscience.co.za www.efficientmicrobes.co.za Bio-Fly (Pty) Ltd Tel: 083 601 7221 www.biofly.co.za Bio-insectaries SA (BISA) Tel: 042 286 0978 / 083 270 4866 www.bioinsectsa.com Biogrow Tel: 028 313 2054 www.biogrow.co.za Natural organic solutions: “Disease, insect and soil management are integrated with the development of natural predators and minimum contamination of the environment”.
Mycoroot (Pty) Ltd Tel: 046 603 8443
[email protected] www.mycoroot.com “Mycoroot, the home of mycorrhizal fungi. An organic microbial fertiliser that boosts yield and production by enhancing soil health and plant root functioning” Ocean Agriculture Tel: 011 668 1974 Provincial contact details are available at www.oceanag.co.za
Planner Bee Plant Care Tel/fax: 011 888 4215 Cosmocel Specialized Nutrition www.fertilis.co.za Tel: 015 307 1391 Fax: 015 307 6555 “FERTILIS” (registration no B3664 Act36/1947) is certified Den Vet by the Organic Food Federation Tel: 033 345 1093 UK: organic certification no:
[email protected] 00371/01/00. FERTILIS also makes www.denvet.co.za wonderful Compost Tea for plant irrigation. Organic feed additives, veterinary remedies, veterinary instruments Plant Health Products (Pty) Ltd (PHP) Eco-fert Tel/fax: 033 266 6130 Tel: 021 979 1737 / 086 100 5051
[email protected] www.eco-fert.co.za www.plant-health.co.za Eco-Fert specialises in fertilisers which contribute to sustainable soil production. Most products are based on soil friendly sources derived from the sea and land. It has a multiple use being an excellent soil life feeder (soil microbes) and effective foliar absorption as a plant feed.
Research, develop, produce and market innovative biocontrol products for Agriculture, Horticulture and Viticulture. Products include Bio-fungicides, Bio-insecticides as well as the development of a number of other Bio-control organisms.
SOYGRO (Pty) Ltd Along with earthworms, numerous Tel: 018 292 1907
[email protected] other soil activities are activated by micro organisms such as: Stimuplant Tel: 012 802 0940 / 4009 • Prokaryotes: include
[email protected] bacteria, actinomycedes and www.stimuplant.sa.gs cyanophycea • Eukaryots: include fungi algae The input of nitrogen through and protozoa, a population of biological nitrogen fixation increases 247 billion micro organisms soil fertility and crop yield, as well can live in an active soil per ha, as decreasing the need for nitrogen this is 8967 kg of underground fertilisers. This is an inexpensive livestock per hectare. and environmentally friendly alternative. Ecosoil Tel: 021 848 9434 / 072 906 1636
[email protected] www.ecosoil.co.za
A business which specialises in compost extract machines. Pieterse consults farmers on creating healthy soils. Compost tea is made by adding compost to water and multiplying specific micro-organisms.
SA Biofarm Institute Tel: 012 333 4222
[email protected] www.sabiofarm.co.za Standard Bank Tel: 011 636 6162 sbsaagriculture@standardbank. co.za www.standardbank.co.za
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3. Websites and publications
Resources and Good Agricultural Practice
Visit www.kejafa.co.za or call 014 577 0005 for the following publications: • Albrecht Papers Vol. 2 • Hands-on Agronomy N Kinsey and C Walters • How soils work P Syltie Find the featured articles and archives on www.sabiofarm.co.za. Numerous publications are also available from them. The agricultural weeklies Landbouweekblad and Farmer’s Weekly frequently run articles on biological farming. Find archived articles at www.landbou. com and www.farmersweekly.co.za Standard Bank has come out as a very strong supporter of biological farming, its AgriReview quarterly publication frequently covering this method of farming e.g. “Farming for tomorrow” in the 2nd quarter 2009 edition. Find archived copies at www.standardbank.co.za www.growit.co.za – a “complete solution for biological farming”
Birds and farming 1. Overview There are situations where farmers play a key role in the conservation of birds. Owing to decreasing margins in many farming enterprises, increasing demands for food and other commodities, an increasing range of products, and technological advances, there will be an increasing trend to farm more intensively and to farm in new areas. This will place more pressure on natural systems and the birds and other animals which inhabit these areas. While farms often attract large numbers of birds due to the availability of food, this should not be mistaken for an indicator of healthy bird populations. Often the birds which abound on farms are the few kinds which can utilise the resource created by the farming enterprise, whereas many species which occurred naturally in the area do not utilise the resource and therefore undergo a marked reduction in numbers and area of occurrence or disappear altogether. The effect on biodiversity can be negative.
Farms with variety are bird-friendly farms Whatever type of farming is practiced, there are ways of reducing the impact on bird diversity. Careful planning of new lands or any other developments which will alter the natural habitat is important. A good principle is to maintain a mosaic of different land uses on a farm. Even if a large part of the area of the farm is utilised, a range of different land uses will ensure a greater variety of birds can benefit from the farm.
Farm well to reduce habitat change Alternatives to the establishment of new lands should be sought, such as more efficient farming methods to obtain increased yields from the existing lands. In general, good farming methods promote the wellbeing of the natural resources and are desirable. Even a simple example such as overgrazing of veld will lead to habitat changes, inevitably leading to a reduction in certain bird species.
Birds need corridors too While birds can fly, many will not fly from one isolated patch of natural vegetation to another, whereas they would move along a natural corridor. Corridors of natural vegetation should be left between lands and between buildings to allow for movement of birds and other animals. Movement to water should also be encouraged by leaving corridors of natural vegetation leading to water sources. While considering bird movement, also look at commonly-used flight paths before erecting high fences, power lines, and telephone lines. Large birds, including many endangered birds, are often injured or killed when they collide with prominent structures. Where tall structures are erected, visibility aids should be used in areas of increased bird movement, such by marking power lines with flappers of other similar devices.
Use the right control methods right Plagues, pests and weeds are a fact of farming, and must be controlled for efficient production. Control does not mean eradication, and control at a tolerable level should be considered. Natural, low impact methods should be employed wherever possible. Carefully chosen biological agents are the ideal. Birds may in fact constitute just such a biological management aid, such as the oxpeckers of the bushveld which pick and eat large amounts of ticks off cattle and other large animals in a year. Where the use of chemicals is necessary, careful research should be done to choose the product which will do the job with the least impact over the long term. Biodegradability, frequency of use, effects on other organisms, and accuracy of application are all important factors to consider in making
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a choice. Once the product is selected, the instructions of use should be followed closely, and all possible efforts must be made to avoid effects on other organisms, also known as non-target species. Insecticides are particularly dangerous, and suppliers and manufacturers should be quizzed regarding the above issues.
Farming and birds can mix Just as one must know the life-cycles of the pests to combat them, so by getting to know the birds’ behaviour, feeding and nesting habits, one can design new developments and general farming practices to promote their wellbeing. As custodians of the earth and the biodiversity in it, this is our duty and not a luxury.
Electricity and birds Eskom electricity brings with it huge benefits to farming and farm life. However, it also brings with it risks to wildlife, in particular birds. Birds and other animals that sit, climb or perch on electrical poles can be electrocuted if they touch two live components, or a live and an earthed component. This is particularly common with the larger bird species. Birds in mid flight can also collide with the overhead wires, which are often difficult to see, particularly against a dark background. Both of these problems can be solved by Eskom, who are committed to making their power lines wildlife friendly. But … we need farmers to report incidents of wildlife mortality to the Eskom-Endangered Wildlife Trust Strategic Partnership’s toll free number 0860 111 535 or
[email protected] Source: Dr At Kruger, Dr Pete Irons, Denokeng Bird Bash, Seringveld Conservancy, Gauteng Conservancy Association
2. Roleplayers Find the contact details of conservancies in the Conservancies chapter. African Gamebird Research Education & Development Trust (AGRED) Tel: 083 445 2685 www.agred.org.za
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Tel: 033 239 1516 / 082 877 4122
[email protected]
Endangered Wildlife Trust Tel: 011 486 1102 Animal Demography Unit (ADU) www.ewt.org.za Tel: 021 650 2423 www.adu.org.za FreeMe Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre Avizandum Tel: 011 807 6993 / 083 558-5658 Tel: 031 763 4054 www.sabirdkeeper.co.za Griffon Agrochemicalenvironmental Consultants BirdLife South Africa Griffon Poison Information Centre Tel: 011 789 1122 Tel: 082 446 8946 24 hr
[email protected] www.birdlife.org.za Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology Dr Andrew Tucker of the Charles Tel: 021 650 3290/1/7 Street Veterinary Group in
[email protected] Pretoria launched a project to promote the use of owls and SA Eagle National Raptor ‘friendlier’ rodenticides namely Helpline Racumin to control rodents on pig Tel: 011 646 4629 farms. Producers testify that they have success in attracting owls SAFRING and getting rid of rats. Farmers Tel: 021 650 2421 can contact Dr Tucker at 082 858
[email protected] 6021. Southern African Birding Delta Environmental Centre Tel/Fax: 031 266 5948 Tel: 011 888 4831 www.sabirding.co.za
[email protected] www.deltaenviro.org.za Thomas Smit Tel: 011 680 4778 EcoSolutions Tel: 072 365 9777 Racing pigeons (journalist) www.ecosolutions.co.za Zambezi Birdpark They supply and install owl boxes Tel: 012 543 9395
EWT Programmes include: Airport Wildlife Programme (EWT-AWP) Claire Patterson-Abrolat (Working Group Coordinator)
[email protected] The Airports Wildlife Programme is dedicated to improving aviation safety by minimising the chance of birds and other wildlife being hit by aircraft. The International Crane Foundation / Endangered Wildlife Trust Partnership for African Cranes Kerryn Morrison –
[email protected] Tel: 082 877 5126 The International Crane Foundation – www.savingcranes.org This is a partnership between the International Crane Foundation (ICF) and the EWT to to ensure the survival of Africa’s crane species through direct conservation interventions as well as maintaining the ecological integrity of their natural habitats, such as grass-and wetlands, and associated biodiversity. This is achieved through the development of pro-active conservation programmes with local communities, generating an improved understanding of crane biology, identifying and mitigating human-induced threats, promoting the sustainable utilisation and wise management of wetland systems and monitoring the status and distribution of Blue (Anthropoides paradiseus), Grey Crowned (Balearica regulorum) and Wattled Cranes (Bugeranus carunculatus). Birds Of Prey Programme (BoPP) André Botha (Programme Manager) –
[email protected] Tanya Fouché (Senior Administrator) –
[email protected] The Birds of Prey Programme is one of the largest EWT Programmes and focuses on the conservation of diurnal and nocturnal raptors, vultures, and their habitats. It includes the previous Raptor Conservation and Vulture Study Groups, and the Ground Hornbill Programme. The Ground Hornbill Programme is part of the EWT-BoPP’s activities in Mpumalanga. With less than 2000 Ground Hornbills (Bucorvus leadbeateri) left in South Africa, a 50% decline in range and more than a 10% decline in numbers over the past three decades, the species is classified as Vulnerable. It is an easily identifiable species on sight and sound, and is an ideal flagship and indicator species for the savanna and woodland biome. Contact Scott Ronaldson (Project Manager) –
[email protected]. Threatened Grassland Species Programme (EWT-TGSP) André Rossouw: (Working Group Coordinator) –
[email protected] Tel: 072 391 9750 As of 2009 the Blue Swallow Working Group is a project under the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Threatened Grassland Species Programme (EWT-TGSP). The Blue Swallow (Hirundo atrocaerulea) is one of the most Critically Endangered birds in South Africa. The EWT-TGSP coordinates a network of stakeholders working together to integrate development and montane grassland and wetland conservation by using the Blue Swallow as a flagship and to define the geographic scope of their activities. The EWT-TGSP network consists of representatives from the provincial conservation authorities, other relevant national and provincial government departments, private landowners, farmers, other conservation NGOs and the forestry and mining industry. Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Programme (WCMP) Tim Snow (Programme Manager) –
[email protected] Administration:
[email protected] The Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Programme aims to address all aspects of human-wildlife conflict in southern Africa by positive and proactive interventions to prevent conflicts; with emphasis on stopping irresponsible use of poisons; and by promoting environmentally sustainable farming methods. Wildlife & Energy Programme (EWT-WEP) Jon Smallie (Working Group Manager) –
[email protected] The WEP incorporates the Eskom-EWT Strategic Partnership, which aims to manage the negative interactions between Eskom infrastructure and wildlife. Report wildlife mortalities on electrical infrastructure to 0860 111 535.
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3. Websites and publications • Die Voëlgids van Suider-Afrika (Ulrich Oberprieler, Burger Cillier) can be ordered at www.lapa.co.za. The English version is entitled The Bird Guide of Southern Africa. Order it at www.gameparkspublishing.co.za. • Find the various books by Ian Sinclair, in English and in Afrikaans, on www.kalahari.net. These include Sasol Birds of Southern Africa and Sasol larger illustrated guide to birds of Southern Africa • Southern African Birdfinder Callan Cohen, Claire Spottiswoode ISBN 186872-725-4 • Voëls van die bosveld SC Kidson, HL van Niekerk ISBN 978-1-87509388-5 Available from Kejafa Knowledge Works. Visit www.kejafa.co.za or phone 014 577 0005. • Find details of AGRED’s Gamebirds of South Africa in the “Gamebirds, Waterfowl and other poultry” chapter. • For pictures, downloads and many bird-related links – www.birdlife. org.za • www.sabap2.org – Southern African Bird Atlas Project 2, “Mapping the distribution and abundance of birds in South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland” • www.worldmigratorybirdday.org – World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) is a global initiative devoted to celebrating migratory birds and for promoting their conservation worldwide. • SA Birding – www.sabirding.co.za • The International Crane Foundation – www.savingcranes.org
4. Training and research BirdLife South Africa (contact details under heading 2). BirdLife South Africa would like the public to assist them with the following research: • Reports of any abnormal mortality amongst wild birds on farms. This should include poisoning, snaring, trapping, disease (such as various types of avian influenza, Newcastle disease, trichomoniasis, etc), and illegal hunting. BirdLife South Africa reports disease outbreaks to DAFF. • Report all sightings and records of Southern Bald Ibis (kalkoenibis in Afrikaans) to BirdLife South Africa at
[email protected] or office phone 011 789 1122. • Report all sightings of Cape Parrot (Knysnapapegaai) also to the same contacts as above. • Any landowner who is interested in monitoring waterbirds, large terrestrial birds, or taking part in the Southern African Bird Atlas Project 2 should contact BirdLife South Africa’s partner, the Animal Demography Unit (see heading 2 for contact details) Read about empowering people for local conservation and benefit sharing at www.blsacommunityconservation.org.za Numerous universities do ornithological training and bird research. Below are two examples: University of Cape Town Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology Tel: 021 650 3290/1/7
[email protected] University of the Free State Department Zoology and Entomology Mr H Butler Tel: 051 401 2489 Others include Rhodes University, University of the Witwatersrand, and the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
5. Two beneficial birds Owls Around the world, including Africa, owls are seen as birds of ill omen and the relationship between owls and humans has been marked by ignorance and misunderstanding. Owls are persecuted out of fear or ignorance and habitats destroyed. Farmers should be encouraged to look after the welfare of owls, a natural predator of grain pests like mice.
The Problems: • Poison. Many owls are victims of secondary or accidental poisoning through build up of insecticides in the body of the owl and through the use of rat poisons. The poison in the rats body often ends up killing the owl. It is important to realize that any poison used in the garden or farmyard can affect beneficial animals, such as owls. There are poison blocks (e.g. Racumin blocks – not paste) which do not result in secondary poisoning. Contact the South African Pest Control Association (details in the Wildlife on Farms chapter). • Chicks should be left where they are so that the parents can continue to look after them. Most owl chicks found on the ground have not been abandoned and the best thing to do in most cases is to leave the bird where it is.
Attracting Owls • Keep the area as natural as possible. • Avoid poisons of all kinds. • Provide safe nesting boxes: this could improve their breeding success. Two simple models may be found in the book listed below (see source acknowledgement). Finding Owls – listen to the excited chatter of the other birds who set up an alarm. Source: A Beginner’s Guide to Owls. The booklet is available from the Delta Environmental Centre.
The Barn Owl prefers a closed box with just a small opening for entry, while the Spotted Eagle-Owl prefers a more open box, from which it can scan its surroundings. Owl boxes can be ordered from the EWT (orders can be placed online at www.ewt.org.za). Alternatively call 011 486 1102 or write to
[email protected]. Also see the EcoSolutions and Charles Street Veterinary Group notes under heading 2
Red-billed Oxpecker The red-billed Oxpecker can be one of the farmer’s greatest natural allies on game and cattle farms, making it very important to employ farming practices which offer the bird the best chance of survival by managing tick infestations with the correct products and management protocols. Dipping against ticks almost eradicated the red-billed Oxpeckers in South Africa (thus the EWT’s Operation Oxpecker). Fortunately, the introduction of environmentally-compatible chemicals, pyrethroid and amidine acaricides, brought new hope for oxpeckers. For more information on how to phase in oxpecker-friendly dips, then lessen dip-dependence by phasing in the oxpecker, and to order the Oxpeckers, Ectoparasiticides and Farmers Manual please contact Arnaud le Roux Cell: 082 325 6578, or write to
[email protected]. Community Based Conservation – empowering local people for local conservation and benefit sharing The secret to our success is no real secret. Here’s what we do: • We bring environmental education and awareness to schools and communities; we establish ‘management committees’ that represent the entire community, local government and NGOs. • We improve resource users’ access to and sustainable use of the resources (e.g. reeds, grass and forest products). • We develop a culture of birding enthusiasts, especially among the youth. • We develop small, community-owned businesses linked to conservation. The idea is to create real social benefits linked to the continued conservation of a site, so as to ensure local buy-in and continued conservation impetus at a local level. Call BirdLife South Africa or visit www.blsacommunityconservation.org. za to find out more Our thanks to Duncan Pritchard (BirdLife South Africa) and Hayley Komen (EWT) for feedback on the draft chapter
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Resources and Good Agricultural Practice
Conservancies and farming 1. Overview The agricultural sector uses approximately 80% of South Africa’s 120 million hectare land surface, incorporating some of our country’s most sensitive ecosystems. Many of our country’s farmers are indeed good land conservationists; unfortunately, with ever increasing financial, resource and manpower burdens placed at the foot of our agricultural industry, many farmers are forced to ensure that every portion of their land becomes financially productive. This can negatively impact on our biophysical environment. Conservancies find common ground and create a meaningful partnership between nature conservation and agriculture.
2. Conservancies A conservancy is a voluntary association between land users/owners who cooperatively wish to manage their natural resources in an environmentally sustainable manner without necessarily changing the land-use of their properties. Registration is granted by the relevant provincial nature conservation authority. A conservancy is NOT a miniature game reserve or nature reserve (even if it is about farming in a way which is game and nature friendly). A conservancy is a voluntary and co-operative action by landowners/users to provide for the yearnings of their souls, e.g. space, silence and the aesthetic therapy of natural beauty, and in doing so are compelled to look after the requirements of nature. To live and/or work in a conservancy does not imply that you have to change your form of land use, or that your title deed is going to be amended. It also does not imply that someone is going to offer you monetary compensation for the time, effort and money you invest into the quality of your own life and for the common good. What living in a conservancy does imply is that each individual slowly but surely starts to consider the consequences, both positive and negative, of his or her actions. The consequences for self, family, neighbours, community, own property, adjacent properties, the conservancy as a whole and eventually much wider. For example, a river does not flow through only one smallholding, farm or even conservancy. A conservancy looks after the interests of nature because it assumes that the best interest of humans and nature are inextricable. What is good for the one is good for the other and vice versa. According to the conventional conservation model, humans are not considered part of biodiversity and therefore are not components of ecosystems. Farmers are not considered a component of agrobiodiversity and therefore not part of the agroecosystem. In a conservancy, people are considered key species of the ecosystem or agroecosystem and have to learn to rub shoulders with other life forms in such a manner that most can continue to exist. Both the words “ecology” and “economy” stem from the Greek root oikos that can be translated as household. Perhaps the idea that what is in our best interest is also in the best interest of nature or vice versa, is not far fetched at all. “Conservancies should be like a meerkat colony: animals with a well developed sense of community, that look after each other, that take turns to do guard duty for the common good, are on the ground, know exactly what is going on around them, cooperatively oppose threats to the colony and yet go about their daily business with the emphasis on family and household.” Ivan Parkes, chairman of the Gauteng Conservancy and Stewardship Association
There is a common misconception that a conservancy is a fenced off area which has had game species introduced to it. Because of this, conservancies are often viewed as elitist. This is NOT so. Many rural conservancies do, indeed, support game. However, there is no limit as to where a conservancy may be formed. Conservancies can be rural or urban and peri-urban as well as marine or industrial. Conservancies can be found in affluent as well as poor or previously disadvantaged areas. Of importance is that the community decides, voluntarily, to conserve the environmental aspects of their district. As the term “environment” is so complex, this could mean the natural, cultural or historical environment of an area. Such an holistic approach to the conservation of an area, town or district directly influences what people often call “sense of place”.
3. The case for conservancies South Africa’s game parks and nature reserves are not sufficient for the conservation of biodiversity, simply because most of our biodiversity exists outside these formally protected areas. Conservancies bring many advantages, for the biodiversity as well as for the communities living or farming within it: • Biodiversity survives and physical resources are conserved. • The reporting, monitoring and co-operatively managing of exotic plants and animals happens. • Wildlife increases in Conservancy areas. • The economic value of the area is improved owing to healthier veld conditions and better overall security. • Landowners become more conscious of their indigenous animal and plantlife. • Game becomes tamer and is more readily seen, but protected at the same time. • A closer community is formed. • The local population usually supports the presence of Game Rangers. • Vagrants tend to avoid a regularly patrolled area. • Harassment of local population is reduced. • There are marked decreases in stock and crop theft in the conservancy area. • There is better control of stray dogs, and less hunting by dogs and the chances of rabies. • Fences are patrolled more regularly; • Pumps and water holes are patrolled more regularly. • There are fewer uncontrolled forest and veld fires in the area owing to co-operative fire management strategies. • There is better general security. • New skills are developed. Conservation by people for people (conservancies) is a new conservation ethic, which embodies coexistence rather than segregation. How this is to be planned for and managed will tax local people to the utmost, but also be the means to heal the wounds of the past and create a dignified existence. We need to coexist with nature in a manner that will allow most species to survive well into the next century. For this to become reality local people will need to develop many skills. • Conservancies enhances the use of the district for nature based education. • The opportunity for eco/agro tourism is also enhanced. • An overall better social, cultural and natural environment leads to a more healthy environment and, in turn, instils a greater sense of community pride in ones surroundings.
4. A short history The first conservancy in South Africa was formed in 1978 in the Balgowan district of KwaZulu-Natal. Landowners in the area realised that if no effort was made to control the poaching of wildlife and utilisation of indigenous trees and shrubs and bring it to sustainable levels, the wildlife would soon disappear from the area and the natural bush would become too badly damaged to be of any use at all. Other conservancies have been formed, in the first instance for the security of the inhabitants of an area as well as its environmental assets. In industrial areas it was found that sound environmental management not only produced
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more pleasant and comfortable working environments, but also lead to the return of wildlife to the most unlikely places. In an urban environment it has been found that by encouraging the planning of suitable indigenous plants in a garden and along streets wildlife soon returned. Conservancy members often form useful environmental lobby groups. Many National Heritage Sites and Sites of Conservation Significance are administrated by Conservancies. Source: Duart Hugo Free State Department of Tourism, Environmental & Economic Affairs
5. What types of conservancies are there? The most common Conservancies types in South Africa fall into the following categories: • Rural (e.g. with nature conservation or LandCare motives) • Agricultural • Peri-Urban • Urban – in urban living areas
• Industrial – in industrial areas • Informal Settlements • Marine & Coastal – in the marine & coastal areas.
Some provinces also have other types of conservancies: • Educational Conservancies e.g. on or around campuses and school grounds. • Habitat Conservancies, set up to safeguard or conserve specific endangered habitats e.g. Bullfrog Pan Conservancy in Gauteng. • Cultural Conservancies – to protect places of cultural or historical value.
6. Rangers In rural and agricultural districts that have formed a conservancy, it is advisable to employ field rangers. This, however, is a matter of choice and necessity. Although there are, obviously, costs involved with the employment of field rangers, one must decide if this is offset by the savings a community gains through greater protection of natural resources in the area, proper maintenance of fences and better protection of livestock and crops through a more efficient “on the ground” reporting system.
7. Training of rangers
The financial side of any organisation can see its success or failure so this should be a focus point when starting a conservancy. The financial status and management of the conservancy should be dealt with in the constitution. The conservancy should have a financial year beginning and end, a bank account and a treasure managing the funds. It should also give feed back to the members on the financial status of the conservancy when needed at the annual general meeting. The examples below are just a few, where funds could play a major role in the functioning of a conservancy: • employing rangers in the conservancy; • training rangers in the conservancy; • controlling exotic plant and animals in the conservancy; • rehabilitating habitats in the conservancy;
• maintaining fire breaks around the conservancy; • getting specialist to assist in the management of the conservancy; • putting up signboards in the conservancy.
Management fees are the obvious way to generate some funds for the conservancy, but there are other ideas, mainly revolving around cooperation in eco-tourism opportunities. The following can be developed by the landowners to generate income in the conservancy: • • • • •
hiking trails picnic areas fishing opportunities bird watching mountain bike trails
• overnight facilities • farm holidays • sponsors can provide financial support.
Labour intensive conservancy projects, such as invasive alien plant management, should create opportunities for the hiring of jobless, previously disadvantaged communities. There is a new push for biodiversity stewardship where farmers are given incentives and support to include areas that are managed for biodiversity in their farms. Inquire about deductions for tax paying farmers under the Income Tax Act. Two of these are: • expenditure on the conservation and maintenance of land under a biodiversity-management agreement entered into between the landowner and the Environmental Affairs Minister; • a tax deduction for money spent maintaining land under the Protected Areas Act. Contact your tax consultant or one of the roleplayers (see heading 9) for more.
Most Nature Conservation Departments provide training to ensure that conservancy rangers are well trained and that high standards are met. Training is usually free but the conservancy is responsible for accommodation and food during training. Sponsors may be identified to provide support for training programmes. The following aspects are covered during most of the courses: • security and discipline • methods of patrolling and reporting • Nature Conservation laws • identification of plants, insects, fish, birds, reptiles and animals • identification of exotic plants and animals • muti and medicinal plants
8. Business opportunities
• control of veld fires • benefits of recycling • personal hygiene and yard management • public relations • tourism • maintenance of hiking trails
Get in touch with your provincial NACSSA affiliate (see heading 9) for details, or visit www.nacsa.co.za.
9. Roleplayers Read about the Biodiversity & KwaZulu Hybrid Seeds Wine Initiative in the Biodiversity Tel: 031 785 1581 chapter.
[email protected] Conservation Management Services Ken Coetzee – 044 870 8472 Jan Vlok – 044 279 1987
[email protected] Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) Tel: 011 486 1102
[email protected] www.ewt.org.za Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Kevin McCan KZN Biodiversity Stewardship Programme manager Tel: 033 8451805
[email protected]
Seed mixes can be used to attract game already present on a farm. Read about a research programme done by the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) – then the National Botanical Institute – at www.sanbi. org/consfarm Stellenbosch University Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology Tel: 021 808 3728 University of the Free State Centre for Environmental Management www.ufs.ac.za/cem
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National Association of Conservancies and Stewardships of South Africa (NACSSA) www.nacsa.co.za Chairperson: John Wesson Tel: 012 504 1408
[email protected]
Vice Chair: Trafford Petterson Tel: 031 300 2000
[email protected]
NACSSA fulfils a vital role in supporting and assisting the agricultural industry with respect to best land management practices and, in turn, recognise that there is a wealth of stored knowledge which can be gained from farmers which can be of great importance to those working in the field of nature conservation. NACSSA’s vision is to promote stewardship of natural resources at a community level. NACSSA Provincial Representatives: Remember – each Conservancy develops its own Constitution. • Eastern Cape –
[email protected] (Elizabeth Rautenbach) • North West –
[email protected] (John Wesson) • Free State –
[email protected] (Duart Hugo) • Northern Cape –
[email protected] (Dr Vicky Ahlmann) • Gauteng –
[email protected] (Ivan Parkes) • Western Cape –
[email protected] (Nora Speiling Thiel) • KwaZulu-Natal –
[email protected] (Malcolm Stainbank) • Mpumalanga –
[email protected] (Nico Oosthuizen) • Limpopo –
[email protected] (Pauline Stacey) NACSSA’s agricultural policy (a brief summary). • Legislation. All agricultural activities undertaken must be executed in accordance with the laws of South Africa. • A National Biodiversity Stewardship Programme. NACSSA has promoted stewardship of natural resources amongst private and community based landowners throughout South African since 2003. • Sustainable Land Use Planning. NACSSA supports the practice of proper land use planning which is environmentally and economically sustainable. • Soil Conservation. NACSSA supports responsible and sustainable soil conservation practices through proper land husbandry. • Water. NACSSA encourages responsible and wise water usage and is opposed to any agricultural practice that degrades both surface and subterranean water quality and quantity. • Botanical Resources. Farmers and nature conservationists need to co-operate in ensuring that botanical knowledge is developed outside of formally protected areas as occurring in a particular area does not necessary mean that it does not occur, rather that it may never have previously been noted and catalogued from that specific area. • Wildlife and Hunting. All naturally occurring wildlife on farms should be conserved and properly managed. • Hunting with Dogs. Unless provided for in terms of provincial nature conservation ordinances, the use of dogs to hunt down wildlife (excluding dogs that aid in bona fide hunts, such as those used for retrieval or the flushing of wild fowl) is illegal and the perpetrators should be charged criminally in accordance with the rule of law. • Problem Animal Control. NACSSA acknowledges that the agricultural sector suffers great losses annually through predation or crop damage from wild animals. It, however, believes that solutions can only be found through multidisciplinary research into the problem, which strives to address the issue ecologically. • Fire Control. NACSSA urges all farmers to take responsibility for well planned and maintained fire prevention strategies. For further information contact Trafford Petterson - Tel: 031 300 2000.
10. Websites and publications • A national newsletter NACSSA NEWS is published and distributed to interested parties via email. • For more information and comprehensive manuals e.g. Conservancies Handbook, Guidelines for Conservancy Management Planning, School Conservancies etc. go to www.conservancies.org or contact your nearest conservancy. These are very useful if you wish to start a conservancy. • KwaZulu-Natal Conservation Service has a booklet Guidelines for the Formation of a Conservancy, and has a wealth of advice about where to start, how to draw up a constitution etc. Tel: 033 845 1999 / 1358.
• Many conservancies produce their own newsletters, ‘essential reading’ category updates, pamphlets, handbooks, guidelines, as well as information on projects and ideas for conservancies. Examples of newsletters are KZN’s The Guinea fowl and Gauteng’s The Ear to the Ground. • Share-Net is a South African based informal networking project that supports environmental education and development in the SADC region. Call the Share-Net team at 033 330 3931 or email
[email protected] • Also refer to other relevant chapters in this directory. • National Association of Conservancies and Stewardships SA – www. nacsa.co.za • Gauteng Conservancy and Stewardship Association – www. conservancies.org • Individual conservancies websites can be accessed on www. conservancies.org and www.nacsa.co.za
11. Projects and ideas for conservancies Anyone can start a conservancy! Biodiversity is declining at an alarming rate and ecosystems face terminal threat through mass extinction of species. Plant and animal resources have always fed and nurtured us. Forming conservancies is a positive step towards protection of our environment and our cultural resources. In our conservancies are rare plant and animal life as well as historical sites – it is essential that ALL these valuable natural assets be noted. The way you wish to organise your conservancy and the projects initiated will be up to your community and committee, however, please note that, although conservancies can play an important role in reducing crime in an area, they should not be confused with security organisations such as farmwatch.
Ideas for conservancies: 1. Look at places of importance, note activities, historical places and natural places: • Historical Places i.e. buildings, walls, trees, water springs, pits, history of the conservancy, graves. • Natural Places i.e. wetlands, streams etc, restore wetlands and banks of wetlands, restore stream flow and stream banks, grasslands, restore grasslands by removing litter, start a trail, construct a bird hide, reintroduce wildlife, plant an indigenous forest, eradicate exotic and invader plants, start a horsetrail, establish a nursery, environmental club, help farmers with fire breaks etc. 2. Develop checklists of species e.g. birds, trees, plants insects, amphibians, reptiles, animals. 3. Other interesting project ideas are to start a recycling project, consider fund-raising e.g. paper tin and plastic collecting, start a compost heap, vegetable garden, herb garden or medicinal plant nursery. Select a steering committee that will inform the participants about setting up and running the conservancy – CONSERVANCIES ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT CONSERVATION ACTIVITY FOR THE NEW CENTURY. Remember – each Conservancy develops its own constitution. Refer to the NACSSA websites for examples. For further ideas refer to the booklet Projects and Ideas for Conservancies available from Gauteng Conservancy Association. Email
[email protected] or write to PO Box 1552, Walkerville 1876. Sources for this chapter: Trafford Petteron (National Association of Conservancies and Stewardships of South Africa); Ivan Parkes (Gauteng Conservancy and Stewardship Association). Use was made of an abridged version of At Kruger’s articles in The Malachite (2005). If you are interested in his CONSERVANCY, BIODIVERSITY AND FARMING: A LONG STORY, please email
[email protected]. It is also available in Afrikaans. Standard Bank’s AgriReview 3rd quarter 2009
Thanks to Ivan Parkes for feedback on the draft chapter
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Resources and Good Agricultural Practice
Environmental Impact Assessments and other environment legislation 1. Overview Often, environmental issues are assumed to be “green issues”, only relating to natural resources like animals and plants. In reality, a “triple bottom line” concept must be considered when understanding the environment, i.e. ecological, economic and social aspects. It is only through the interaction of these three aspects that the real environment can be accurately determined and understood. Ecological aspects include plants, animals, water, air and soil while social issues are related to human interaction, and include issues such as education, traffic, noise impacts, poverty and visual impacts. Economic issues include capital outlay, returns on investments and employment opportunities. The concept of environmental sustainability strives to draw these three aspects of our environment together to ensure that the needs of future generations can be guaranteed, while ensuring that the environment is safeguarded. This chapter is included for two reasons: • Farmers can get into trouble when they are not familiar with environmental issues. • As mentioned in the biodiversity chapter, any national conservation strategy needs to take account of the important role of farmers in conservation.
2. Environmental legislation South Africa is governed by a number of legislative provisions relating to the environment, and these include both national and international laws. INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONVENTIONS include: • The Ramsar Convention – An intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources, with emphasis on ecological, economic and social feasibility. • Convention on Biological Diversity – Aims to conserve biological diversity and promote the sustainable use of its components with equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the utilization of resources. • United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification – Requires countries to respond to land degradation and the effects of drought, including the rehabilitation, conservation and sustainable management of land and water resources. • New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) – Conservation and sustainable use of natural resources is one of the eight themes under this environment initiative. • The World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) – Promotion of watershed and water resource protection and restoration to reduce the risk of flooding in drought-vulnerable countries. Locally, our NATIONAL LEGISLATION pertaining to the environment includes the following: The Constitution of South Africa (108 of 1996) Everyone has the right to have the environment protected by legislative or other means to: • prevent ecological degradation and pollution; • promote conservation; and • secure ecologically sustainable development and use of natural resources.
National Environmental Management Act (107 of 1998) The National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) is the overarching environmental legislation in South Africa and deals with a number of issues including: • Sustainable development - taking into account social, economic and environmental factors in all planning and decision making. • Disturbances of eco-systems and loss of biodiversity must be avoided or mitigated and there must be a “duty of care” to prevent significant pollution and environmental degradation. • The “Polluter Pays Principle” states that the cost of remedying pollution, environmental degradation and consequent adverse health effects and of preventing, controlling or minimising further pollution, environmental damage or adverse health effects must be paid for by those responsible for harming the environment. • There are set procedures for the investigation, assessment and communication of any activity requiring environmental authorisation. Under Section 24 of the NEMA, specific legislation in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations is included. This is discussed in more detail under heading 3. The National Water Act (36 of 1998) The intention of the National Water Act is to protect South Africa’s water resources and associated ecosystems and their biological diversity. See the Water chapter. Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (43 of 1983) The intention of the Act is to control the over-utilisation of South Africa’s natural agricultural resources, and maintaining the production potential of land. The conservation of soil and water resources and natural vegetation is promoted through the prevention and control of erosion, protection of surface and groundwater, and the prevention of the silting of dams and pollution of water. Combating of weeds and invader plants is covered by Amended Regulations 15 and 16 of the Act, which were promulgated on 30 March 2001. See the Invasive Alien Species chapter. National Veld and Forest Fire Act (101 of 1998) The purpose of the National Veld and Forest Fire Act is to prevent and combat veld, forest and mountain fires throughout South Africa. See the Fire chapter. National Forests Act (84 of 1998) The purpose of the Act is to protect and promote sustainable use of forests for environmental, economic, educational, recreational, cultural, health and spiritual purposes. Natural Heritage Resources Act (25 of 1999) The purpose of the Act is to protect South Africa’s natural and cultural heritage. This may include the protection of a landscape, natural features and objects or places of cultural significance, historical importance and archaeological / geological value. According to the Act, all buildings older than 60 years may not be altered in any way without authorization from the Provincial Heritage Authority (e.g. KZN Amafa). The National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (10 of 2004) The intention of the Act is to protect species and ecosystems and promote the sustainable use of indigenous biological resources. This Act establishes the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), which may coordinate the implementation of programmes for the rehabilitation of ecosystems. National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (57 of 2003) The intention of the Act is to protect and conserve ecologically viable areas and their natural landscapes.
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Kinds of protected areas are: • • • •
game reserves, nature reserves and protected environments; World Heritage Sites; specially protected forest areas; and mountain catchment areas.
Landowners are encouraged to place land under formal protection/ conservation, and to encourage this, rates rebates are available to landowners who do so. The Mountain Catchments Areas Act (63 of 1970) The intention of the Act is to provide for the conservation, use, management and control of land situated in mountain catchment areas. Other Acts and Legislation Attention is drawn to the World Heritage Conventions Act, (49 of 1999) in which World Heritage Sites fall under the control of the management authority and the relevant Municipality. The Seashore Act, (21 of 1935) and the Marine Living Resources Act, (18 of 1998) include the definitions of estuarine and inland waters. Provincial and local government legislation may have specific relevance to particular instances within their jurisdictions. These must be considered on a case by case basis.
3. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulations Under Section 24 of the NEMA, Amended Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations have been recently promulgated under Government Notice (GN) R 543 (2010), and these specify certain Listed Activities for which either a Basic Assessment (GN R 544 and R 546) or a Scoping and Environmental Impact Assessment (GN R 545) is required. There are several Listed Activities which are applicable to proposed developments or improvements within the agricultural sector. These include activities related to livestock production, packsheds, fuel storage, effluent ponds, removal of indigenous vegetation through ploughing, establishment of bridges / weirs, water extraction and storage in dams, composting and waste management, release of genetically-modified organisms and the subdivision of land. These are specified in more detail below: Under GN R 544, the following activities would trigger the need for a Basic Assessment to be carried out: • Part 3: The construction of facilities or infrastructure for the slaughter of animals with a product throughput of (i) poultry exceeding 50 poultry per day; or (ii) game and red meat exceeding 6 units per day;
• Part 4: The construction of facilities or infrastructure for the concentration of animals for the purpose of commercial production in densities that exceed – - 2m2 per large stock unit and more than 500 units per facility; - 8 m2 per small stock unit and (a) more than 1 000 units per facility excluding pigs where (b) will apply; (b) more than 250 pigs per facility, excluding piglets that are not yet weaned; - 30m2 per crocodile at any level of production, excluding crocodiles younger than 6 months; - 3m2 per rabbit and more than 500 rabbits per facility; or - 250m2 per ostrich or emu and more than 50 ostriches or emus per facility or 2500m2 per breeding pair; • Part 5: The construction of facilities or infrastructure for the concentration of: - (i) more than 1 000 poultry per facility situated within an urban area, excluding chicks younger than 20 days; or - (ii) more than 5 000 poultry per facility situated outside an urban area, excluding chicks younger than 20 days. • Part 8: The construction of a hatchery or agri-industrial infrastructure outside industrial complexes where the development footprint covers an area of 2000m2 or more • Part 11: The construction of (i) canals, (ii) channels, (iii) bridges, (iv) dams, (v) weirs, (x) buildings exceeding 50m2 in size, (xi): infrastructure or structures covering 50m2 or more, where such construction occurs within a watercourse or within 32 metres of a watercourse, measured from the edge of a watercourse. • Part 12: The construction of facilities or infrastructure for the off-stream storage of water, including dams and reservoirs, with a combined capacity of 50 000 m3 or more, unless such storage falls within the ambit of the activity listed in Activity 19 of GN R 545 of 2010; • Part 13: The construction of facilities or infrastructure for the storage, or for the storage and handling, of a dangerous good, where such storage occurs within containers with a combined capacity of 80 – 500m3. • Part 25: The release of genetically modified organisms into the environment, where assessment for such release is required by the Genetically Modified Organisms Act, 1997 (Act No. 15 of 1997) or the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004); Under GN R 546, certain Listed Activities would trigger the need for a Basic Assessment to be carried out, due to the location of the site within specified Geographical Areas. These include sites outside urban areas, in Protected Areas, Conservancies or Biosphere Reserves, within 5km of a Nature Reserve or within 10km of a World Heritage Site, in sensitive areas identified in terms of a Environmental Management Framework, in critical biodiversity areas, or in areas zoned for open space or conservation use. The types of Listed Activities for these areas include: • Part 2: The construction of reservoirs for bulk water supply with a capacity of more than 250m3; • Part 3: The construction of masts or towers of any material or type used for telecommunication broadcasting or radio transmission purposes where the mast : (a) is to be placed on a site not previously used for this purpose, and (b) will exceed 15m in height, but excluding attachments to existing buildings and masts on rooftops;
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• Part 4: The construction of a road wider than 4m with a reserve less than 13,5m; • Part 8: The construction of aircraft landing strips and runways shorter than 1,4km; • Part 10: The construction of facilities or infrastructure for the storage, or for the storage and handling, of a dangerous good, where such storage occurs within containers with a combined capacity of 30 – 80m3; and • The clearance of vegetation where 75% or more of the vegetative cover constitutes indigenous vegetation, ranging in size from 300m2 to 5ha or more (specific to site’s environmental sensitivity). A diagrammatic representation of the Basic Assessment Process is shown in Figure 1.
The following Listed Activities under GN R 545 would require a Scoping and EIA process to be conducted: • Part 16: The physical alteration of virgin soil to agriculture, or afforestation for the purposes of commercial tree, timber or wood production of 100ha or more; and • Part 19: The construction of a dam where the highest part of the dam wall, as measured from the outside toe of the wall to the highest part of the wall, is 5m or higher or where the high-water mark of the dam covers an area of 10ha or more: It should be noted that there may be additional Listed Activities specific to agriculture, which are not listed above. It should also be noted that additional Listed Activities for aquaculture and the production of finfish, crustaceans, reptiles, amphibians, molluscs and aquatic plants are specified in the EIA Regulations. Environmental assessments are also required for the expansion of agricultural facilities, according to certain thresholds. Should any of the above be “triggered” by a proposed activity on a farm, then under GN R 543 of 2010, the applicant is required to appoint an independent Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) to conduct the environmental authorisation process (Basic Assessment or Scoping and EIA) on behalf of the applicant.
4. Environmental Monitoring and Auditing Environmental Compliance Monitoring A requirement of the environmental authorisation process most often includes the compilation of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP). This document contains guidelines to ensure that all activities associated with the proposed development are carried out in an environmentally responsible and acceptable manner, e.g. safe storage of hazardous chemicals, sensible siting of ablution facilities, effective control of workers activities, implementation of methods to reduce soil erosion and compliance with health and safety issues. An EMP is a legally-binding document that contains guidelines with which building contractors and / or applicants must comply, and that must be strictly implemented and regularly monitored. If this is done, it is likely that the majority of the potentially adverse impacts can be minimised or prevented. The EMP should be based on the principles of the NEMA as well as the recommendations made in the preceding Basic Assessment Report or the Scoping and EIA Reports. The EMP specifies management objectives and the roles and responsibilities of management personnel on site. The EMP also includes specific mitigation measures for the entire duration of the development, namely the following stages: • • • • •
planning and design; pre-construction and construction activities; operation of the activity; rehabilitation of the environment; and closure (where relevant).
The EMP should be used as a framework for environmental compliance monitoring and reporting. In order to effectively monitor compliance with the EMP, an Environmental Control Officer (ECO) should be appointed by the applicant. The ECO will conduct regular inspections of the site or facility
to ensure that activities are being responsibly undertaken, in line with the guidelines set out in the EMP. Should non-compliance occur, the ECO will bring this to the attention of the relevant authority, who will instruct the necessary remediation procedure or prosecute, if necessary.
Auditing / Certification Auditing of specific industries according to a set industry standard is often a requirement in order to be able to export agricultural produce to certain overseas markets. For example, GlobalGAP is based on the concept of Good Agricultural Practise (GAP) and is recognised as an international benchmark or standard that is applicable to a variety of products, including plant and livestock production, plant propagation and feed manufacturing. Other standards exist within the agricultural sector, such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which is a certification system applicable to forest management, and ensures that all FSC-accredited timber is produced in an environmentally sustainable manner. These types of audits often require regular self-audits followed by less frequent audits by independent certification bodies. The concept of standards and auditing systems is usually one of self-improvement towards achieving specific and attainable goals, however non-compliance can result in losing accreditation, resulting in a reduction in market opportunities.
5. Rehabilitation Humans rely on the natural functioning of ecosystems to provide them with goods (e.g. oxygen from trees) and services (e.g. clean water). Land that has been disturbed by human activities cannot perform these natural functions as efficiently as pristine land. It is therefore necessary to rehabilitate land that has been disturbed by agriculture or other activities (e.g. construction). The National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) stipulates that no agricultural activities can take place in the 1:10 year flood line of a river or stream, or within 32 m from the bank of a river or stream where the flood line is unknown (see EIA Regulations above). The reason for conserving such areas is to protect the water resources and natural capital of South Africa. Areas within this stipulated zone that are currently under agriculture should be removed from agriculture and placed under rehabilitation after the next harvest. Land that is due to be rehabilitated is often initially bare (no vegetation). In this situation, protecting soil from being washed away by moving water is always the priority. If a good soil layer already exists, planting grass varieties such as Paspalum or Vetiver will help to bind the soil. This can be most effectively achieved by planting plugs of grass, but other methods such as hydro-seeding or simply sowing grass seed are also effective. When there is too little soil to plant grasses, erosion structures built along the contours of the slope will trap soil during rainfall events that can then be used for planting. For information on different erosion structures and materials see http://www.africangabions.co.za/solutions. For successful rehabilitation, the gradient of the land needs to be made as gentle as possible, as steep land allows for very fast water run-off that accelerates erosion. To avoid this, any steps in slopes must be evened out and all erosion preventing structures must be built along contours to avoid water channelling. To achieve successful rehabilitation, the flow of water must be slowed down using a water attenuation system that can be built using local materials such as stones and branches. However one must be careful not to disturb another site when sourcing such materials. Structures should be built as high up on the slope as possible in order to prevent build up in momentum as stormwater moves down the slope. The steepness of the slope and severity of disturbance will determine the spacing of the structures moving down the slope. Extremely steep ground can be virtually impossible to rehabilitate without the use of climbing equipment and bio-matting, which is used to cover the entire slope.
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Levels of intervention for soil stabilisation • Level 0: No Intervention. The habitat is stable and no erosion control measures are required, as the naturally occurring rehabilitation is adequately. • Level 1: Minimum Intervention. Small bare patches on gentle slopes may need grassing, or a stabilising material placed over them. • Level 2: Low to Medium Intervention. Extended areas of exposed soil on relatively gentle slopes may facilitate water runoff during rainfall. This will lead to minor soil loss if patches are not grassed or stabilised with inert materials. • Level 3: Intermediate Intervention. Flowing water dislodges soil particles and transports them off-site, leaving a scar on the land. Erosion structures and revegetation practises should be implemented. • Level 4: Medium / High Intervention. When flow velocities become too high, serious intervention is required through the introduction of additional inert materials that add a strength component to protect the underlying soil from erosion. Gabions and textile matting may be used for this purpose when local materials are unavailable. • Level 5: Maximum Intervention. Although vegetation can nearly always be used to curb erosion, situations arise on steep, bare land where erosive forces are too great for vegetation develop without assistance. Erosion structures such as gabion weirs will need to be constructed to stabilise the soil movement before planting can take place. Steep dongas may have to be back-filled using local materials before a soil layer can be established for planting.
6. Environmental Permits Aside from the procedural requirements of the EIA process, certain activities also require specific permits to be granted, prior to commencing with the activity. For example, the planting of timber plantations is classified as a “stream flow reduction activity”, thus requires a permit to be issued by the Department of Water and Environmental Affairs (DWEA, previously Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, DWAF). Similarly, construction of a road or causeway over a stream or river would also require a water use license application, as this activity could divert or impede the flow of water in a watercourse. More information on water use registering and licensing can be found on DWEA’s website – www.dwaf.gov.za/ Projects/ WARMS/default.asp. Some proposed activities may result in protected tree species being damaged or destroyed. In such cases, a permit is required to be submitted to the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF), prior to undertaking such an activity. The list of protected trees can be found on the DAFF website (take the Forestry option). Should the release of atmospheric emissions be a part of the proposed activity, a permit in terms of the Atmospheric Pollution Prevention Act would be required, in order to obtain authorisation to release certain emissions.
Alien Vegetation Rehabilitation may also be necessary when intensive alien plant invasion has occurred, even if the soils are stable. Alien vegetation commonly establishes in disturbed areas and on bare soil, so there is a relationship between these two types of rehabilitation, thus a necessary step in rehabilitation is the removal of any alien plant species and ongoing follow-ups. Refer to the chapter on Invasive Alien Species is this directory for further information. The DWEA (previously Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, DWAF), in its Working for Water Programme, recommends the following regarding alien invasive species. Any control programme for alien vegetation must include the following 3 phases: • Initial control: drastic reduction of existing population; • Follow-up control: control of seedlings, root suckers and coppice growth; and • Maintenance control: sustain low alien plant numbers with annual control. A variety of methods exist to control invasion of alien vegetation. Speciesspecific information relating to methods in manual and chemical control can be obtained on the Working for Water website (www.dwa.gov.za/wfw/ Control).
Re-vegetation Replanting of rehabilitated areas should be undertaken during seasons of rainfall, to promote plant establishment and to reduce irrigation requirements. Mulch could be added to the soil when replanting, to increase organic content and to maximise the soils’ moisture-retention capabilities. Species to be used in the re-vegetation exercise should be indigenous to South Africa, or, better still, endemic (i.e. native to a specific limited area). Grass seed mixes, indigenous shrubs and trees should be sourced from local indigenous nurseries. Further Reading: • Restoration ecology: the new frontier by Jelte van Andel, James Aronson. • Vetiver Grass: the hedge against erosion. Published by The Institute of Natural Resources.
7. Waste Management See the Waste Management chapter
8. The National Environmental Management Act: Waste Act and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations The National Environmental Management Act: Waste Act (NEMWA; Act 59 of 2008) is South Africa’s newly promulgated legislation relating to the storage, reuse, recycling, recovery, treatment and disposal of hazardous and general waste, including animal waste. In terms of the NEMWA, no person may commence, undertake or conduct a waste management activity listed in Schedule 1 unless a licence is issued in respect of that activity. According to Schedule 1, certain Listed Activities are specified for which either a Basic Assessment (Government Notice No. R (GN R) 544 and 546) or a Scoping and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA; GN R 545), as stipulated in the EIA Regulations (see heading 3), is required to accompany the Waste Licence Application Form. Our gratitude to Janet Edmonds, Lauren Boyes and Andrew Booth for compiling this valuable chapter.
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Fire 1. Overview Uncontrolled wild fires lead to direct losses in terms of: • loss of life, and disability, due to vegetation fires; • loss of housing and possessions when thatched or wooden dwellings ignite; • loss of grazing, crops, livestock and subsistence natural resources. In Africa, where lightning is common and people have used veld fires for thousands of years to improve the quality of their grazing, veld fires have a long history. Veld fires are also a controversial issue, however, and have been banned totally in some countries. The truth is that veld fires can be a useful veld management practice, but under the wrong conditions can also cause great damage to the veld. Veld fires are a good servant, but a bad master. Veld is mainly burned for two reasons: • to remove accumulated organic material, particularly in areas with a high rainfall; • to combat or prevent bush encroachment. When to burn This is not only determined by the correct season of the year, but also by the amount of available combustible material. The right time of the year to burn is probably as close as possible to the first spring rains. By burning earlier in the year, the burned veld is exposed to cold and late winter winds, which can remove valuable nutrients in the form of ash. In addition, the stimulated grasses are weakened by having to rely on their reserves in order to survive without water for long periods. This is particularly the case if the veld is used as pasture. In both cases the presence of a dense stand of perennial grasses is important. By burning veld that is in a poor condition, the condition of the veld will deteriorate even further. When burning to combat bush encroachment, it is important to have a good stand of dry grass beneath the shrub to generate a hot fire. When not to burn It is advisable not to burn the veld under the following conditions: • Never burn to stimulate green pasture out of season. This practice has the same negative consequences as overgrazing and will lead to large scale veld deterioration over the long term. • Never attempt to burn veld that is in a poor condition. This veld is already under stress and burning it will only let the veld deteriorate even further. It is preferable to only burn veld that has a majority of climax species and a biomass of ±3 000 kg of combustible material and more per hectare. • Veld in areas with a low rainfall (±400 mm per annum and less) should preferably not be burned. Should follow-up rains not fall straight away, the veld will take a long time to recover. Types of fire A fire that burns in the direction of the wind is generally preferred. When burning to remove declining veld, a “cool” fire is required. This can be obtained by burning on a cool day with no wind. The cooler the fire, the less damage is caused to dormant grass plants. When burning to control bush encroachment, a “hot fire” is required. This can be achieved by burning on a hot day with a low humidity. A hot fire on a windy day will cause the bush to be burned right up to the crown, but with minimal burning at ground level. Source: Guide to Grasses of South Africa. Frits van Oudtshoorn. Contact him at
[email protected] (further details under the roleplayers heading – see Bushveld Eco Services entry).
2. Legal notes on firebreaks It is the landowners responsibility to prepare firebreaks and have the correct equipment and trained personnel to prevent the spread of fires. This is made very clear in Act 101 of 1998. The act is available on www.firestop.co.za. Landowners must prepare and maintain firebreaks on their side of the boundary or fence as well as any adjoining land. The Landowner must obtain permission and determine a mutually agreeable date/s with owners of adjoining properties, and inform the fire protection association for the area, if any. If no agreement can be reached on dates, the Landowner must give the owners of adjoining properties as well as the fire protection association in the area (if any) at least 14 days written notice of the intended day/s when the Landowner intends burning firebreaks. An owner of adjoining land who has agreed on a day or who receives a notice must• burn his or her firebreak on the boundary concerned on the same day or days; • be present at such burning or have his or her agent attend; and • ensure that a sufficient number of persons are present on his or her side of the boundary to prevent any spread of fire when the firebreak is burned. An owner may not burn a firebreak, despite having complied with subsection (2) of the Act, if the fire protection association objects to the proposed burning; or a warning has been published because the fire danger is high in the region; or the conditions are not conducive to the burning of firebreaks. The owner must inform the owners of adjoining land and the fire protection association• if burning cannot be done on the agreed day or days or any of the days; • of the additional days on which he or she intends to bum because of the failure to do so on the day or days. It is not necessary for the owner to give 14 days notice of the additional days. Owners of adjoining land may agree to position a common firebreak away from the boundary. Should an owner intend to be absent for a period longer than 14 days during the period or part of any period in which burning normally takes place, he or she must give all owners of adjoining land an address and telephone number, if any, at which he or she may be contacted. If an owner of adjoining land• is not present on the agreed or notified day or days; or • has not given an address and telephone number, if any, as required in subsection (8), the owner may proceed with the burning in his or her absence. Requirements for firebreaks An owner is obliged to prepare and maintain a firebreak with due regard to the weather, climate, terrain and vegetation, and must ensure that it is wide enough and long enough to have a reasonable chance of preventing a veldfire from spreading to or from neighbouring land; it does not cause soil erosion; and it is reasonably free of inflammable material capable of carrying a veldfire across it. Source: Agricultural Employers Organisation (LWO). Contact them at 0861 10 18 28 or visit www.lwo.co.za.
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3. National strategy
The Act provides a variety of ways in which to prevent, combat and manage fires throughout the country. These include the formation of Fire Protection Associations (FPAs), voluntary organisations. Members are drawn from local communities and authorities, farmers, residents, landowners, nature conservation, municipal fire services and so on. Find information on FPAs at www.firewisesa.org.za.
WoF is a SA Government initiative under the Expanded Public Works programme which employs people from disadvantaged communities and trains them in fire fighting. They are available to assist landowners in Working on Fire Programme the preparation of firebelts and the (WoF) fighting of fires. Find details of the General Manager – 013 741 6400 Integrated Fire Management (IFM) National Programme Manager strategy on the website. – 013 741 6414 Training Manager – 013 741 6476 www.workingonfire.org
FPAs are envisaged to provide the overarching, co-ordinated support in provinces – aerial fire-fighting support, rapid attack teams, fire weather services, and co-ordination of fire records and training. Below is an example of an FPA.
Contact details for their air operations, ground operations, training etc are available on their website.
Co-operation among rural owners and managers of land is required for the effective management of veldfires. The National Veld and Forest Fires Act of 1998 provides a framework for owners to organise and collaborate in veldfire management.
KwaZulu-Natal Fire Protection Association (ZFPS) Tel: 033 330 8421 (24 Hours) Simon Thomas – 082 654 4943
[email protected] www.firestop.co.za There are numerous benefits for farmers to become members of a registered FPA. Farmers do not have to spend excessive amounts of money on fire fighting equipment and protective clothing for their workers as required by law. As a member of an FPA, a farmer only needs to buy limited equipment because the FPA and all other members of the FPA (who will assist him in the case of a fire) also have equipment and protective clothing. According to the Act, if a farmer is a member of an FPA, no presumption of negligence would apply in case of a civil claim for damages where a fire has spread from a member’s land and caused damages or losses to the property or land of another person. The benefit lies in the fact that the plaintiff will carry the onus to prove negligence on the part of the defendant regarding the cause of the fire, or the spreading of the fire to other farms. Another benefit to farmers is the advantage of a possible waiver of certain precautions, such as the preparation of firebreaks. Firebreaks are mandatory unless exempted by the Minister. The FPA may compile regulations in order to accommodate personal circumstances. In the event of a veld fire the farmer may call on a Work on Fire team for assistance and he only has to pay for the fuel of their vehicles to get to his farm and providing them with food. If he is however not a member of an FPA, he will be responsible for all their costs such as the use of their equipment, clothing etc. Although the Act does not require farmers to belong to an FPA, the Act allows farmers who are already members of a Farmers’ Association in a specific region to form an FPA in their area. That FPA will lay down rules and regulations which will be applicable to all members of the FPA. Such an FPA must be registered by the Department of Agriculture as an approved FPA by the Minister. Source: Santam press release, 6 August 2009 (adapted). For more information contact Louis La Cock at
[email protected]
Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Directorate: Agricultural Risk and Disaster Management Tel: 012 319 7955/56
[email protected]
Department of Cooperative Governance & Traditional Affairs Previously Provincial and Local Government (DPLG) Tel: 012 334 0600 www.dplg.gov.za
Telephone numbers for the Forestry section (previously DWAF) can be The DPLG has a sub-programme found at www.daff.gov.za (look for which involves a fire management strategy in seven provinces. the “Forestry” menu option)
Skills and capacity development and the creation of labour-intensive job opportunities, in keeping with the Poverty Relief Fund requirements, are undertaken.
4. Websites and publications Visit the websites listed in this chapter e.g. www.firewisesa.org.za, www. workingonfire.org and www.firestop.co.za. Find information as well as references to publications. Resource materials on the National Veld and Forest Fire Act No 101 of 1998, a CD, includes a copy of the Act and answers to FAQs, include how to fill in forms to register an FPA (Fire Protection Association). The CD is available from Department of Forestry offices. The CSIR’s Meraka Institute runs the Advanced Fire Information System – satellite information on fires in Southern Africa. Visit http://afis.meraka. org.za/afis. Kobus Botha’s weather satellite photos of Southern Africa (www. weatherphotos.co.za – see the “Fires” menu option). The Fire Handbook, published by the Southern African Institute of Forestry (SAIF). Visit www.saif.org.za for details (look for the “Forestry Handbook” menu option). Find the Fighting Fire Info Pak on www.daff.gov.za. You can also contact the Resource Centre at 012 319 4171 for the publication. For a free copy of the easy-to-understand booklet You, wildfires and the law, call Luthfia on 021 797 5787 or
[email protected] The agricultural weeklies, Landbouweekblad and Farmer’s Weekly, run numerous articles on fires e.g. the Working on Fire programme, Santam’s lower premiums for FPA members etc. Find archived articles at www. landbou.com and www.farmersweekly.co.za Read about ethanol gel and safety stoves in the biofuels chapter. Paraffin stoves lead to some 46 000 fires a year (Markinor, quoted by Andrew Makanete in a March 2009 presentation at ELIDZ).
5. Associations and companies involved Find the AfriFireNet (Regional Sub Sahara Wildland Fire Network) pages at www.fire.uni-freiburg. de, website of the Global Fire Monitoring Centre (GFMC).
Bush clearing projects Tel: 014 778 0733 / 082 574 3792 www.bosvreter.co.za Controlled and planned burning of veld done
Some AgriSETA accredited providers of training run firelot Bushveld Eco Services management, fire management etc Tel: 014 717 3819 courses. Below are two examples:
[email protected]
Training in Fire Management on the • Skills for All – 082 780 5247 • Umnga Farmers Training Farm Centre – 045 933 1318
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CAMQUIP Tel: 011 864 3812 / 082 850 8828 Tel: 033 343 3813 / 082 551 8932 www.camquip.co.za DAVEY fire pumps, beaters etc. Children of Fire Tel: 011 726 6529 www.firechildren.org
McBeans Tel: 033 342 1541 www.mcbeans.co.za Fire-fighting equipment Measured Farming Tel: 033 345 2508
A business with experience in assessing fires and the resultant Children of Fire helps severely damage burned children to get complex NIC’s Trailers surgery, therapy and education. Tel: 018 673 0224 / 082 859 0904 Read about their rural development www.nictrailers.co.za initiative (Amangwane King) in the Importance of Rural Development Fire carts chapter. Orsmond Aviation Fireboss Tel: 058 303 5761 Tel: 012 804 2581 www.orsmondaviation.co.za
[email protected] Rogue Agriculture Firebreak Equipment Tel: 033 345 0038 Tel: 012 804 9177/ 082 353 4336 www.roguesteel.co.za www.firebreak.co.za Fire carts Firefighting Equipment Traders Association SAFIRE Insurance Company Tel: 011 397 1618/9 Limited www.fpasa.co.za Tel: 033 264 8500 www.safireinsurance.com Joubert Implements Tel: 021 887 1220 Fire-extinguisher wagons
Santam Agriculture Tel: 012 369 1202
[email protected] www.santam.co.za
Stellenbosch University Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology Tel: 021 808 3728
Santam Agriculture offers comprehensive asset and crop products. To encourage responsible fire management, different premiums are offered to farmers who are members of FPAs and those who are not.
Wildland Fire Training Center Africa (WFTCA) Tel: 013 741 6460 / 083 459 0504 Zululand Fire Protection Services (ZFPS) Tel: 035 580 4220 / 082 577 9337 www.zfps.co.za
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Invasive Alien Species (IAS) 1. Overview Invasive Alien Species (IAS), also called invasives, exotics, or non-indigenous, are native to a particular area or region, are those that have become established in a new environment, then proliferate and spread in ways that are destructive to biodiversity and/or human interests. Introduced species often find no enemies in their new habitat and therefore spread easily and quickly. While some species have invaded habitats on their own, human movements have dramatically increased the diversity and scale of invasions by alien species. Both plant and animal invasive species threaten all sub-regions in Africa. Alien species that become established in a new environment, then proliferate and spread in ways that are destructive to biodiversity or/and human interests are considered “invasive alien species” or IAS. The cost of controlling IAS in South Africa is estimated at R600 million a year over 20 years. The spread of IAS’s are now recognised as one of the greatest threats to the ecological and economic well-being of the planet. IAS are found in nearly all the taxonomic groups of organisms. The direct costs of management of invasives can run into the millions of Rands, and in addition, the economic costs also include their indirect environmental consequences and other non-market values. For example, invasive species may cause changes in ecological services, including: • • • • • •
flood control and water supply waste assimilation recycling of nutrients conservation and regeneration of soils pollination of crops, and seed dispersal
2. Legislation CARA (see below) stipulates that landowners are responsible for the control of IAS on their properties.
South Africa has numerous Acts, administrated by different government departments, which deal with different aspects of invasive alien species. The ones most relevant to farmers are the Acts of the Department of Agriculture, dealing mainly with weeds and plant invaders, crop pests and diseases of livestock.
CARA (Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act 1983) (Act No. 43 of 1983) CARA has certain regulations that provide for the control of weeds and invader plants. This Act is currently under review regarding regulations 15 and 16 that are in the process of changing. The current CARA will thus be discussed. In terms of these regulations 15, there are 3 categories of regulated plants: • Category 1 – Declared Weeds. These are plants that must be controlled on land or water surfaces by all land users. These plants may no longer be planted or propagated and all trade in seeds, cuttings or other propagation material is prohibited. They may not be translocated or be allowed to disperse. These species carry a fine. Category 1 plants include Lantana, Pom pom weed, Water hyacinth, Yellow oleander etc. Most of the aggressive species fall in this category. Category 2 species without a permit are accepted to be category 1 species. • Category 2 – Declared Invaders (Invasive plants with commercial or amenity value). These are invader plants that pose a threat to the environment but nevertheless can be exploited for timber, fruits, fuel wood, medicinal plants, animal fodder, building material or shelter or to stabilise soil. These species are only allowed
to occur in demarcated areas that carry a permit. If the plants are used for commercial purposes, land users have to obtain a water use licence as these plants consume large volumes of water. Where plants occur outside demarcated areas they have to be controlled. Category 2 plants include Black wattle, Sisal, grey poplar and Weeping willow (not to be confused with indigenous willows). The landowner needs to approach the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) to obtain a permit for the category 2 species; the decision to grant a permit is the responsibility of DAFF. • Category 3 – Declared Invaders (Invasive plants with ornamental value). These are plants that have the potential of becoming invasive but are considered to have ornamental value. In terms of Regulation 15 of CARA, these plants will not be allowed to occur anywhere except in biological control reserves unless they were already in existence when these regulations came into effect (30 March 2001). This means that the existing plants do not have to be removed by the land user; however, they must be kept under control and no new plant may be initiated, propagated or dispersed and the plants may no longer be sold. Category 3 plants include Jacaranda, Syringa, Australian silky oak, St Joseph’s lily etc.
Agricultural Pests Act, Act No. 36 of 1983 This Act provides for measures by which agricultural pests may be prevented from entering the country, and by which existing pests may be combated. It specifies, amongst other things, that any products or materials that might harbour agricultural pests, require an import permit before they can be imported into the country.
Animal Diseases Act, Act No. 35 of 1984 This Act aims at protecting the national animal (and human) population, as well as our export markets, against animal diseases. These diseases are caused mainly be alien invasive pathogens. In terms of this Act, each consignment of animal and/or animal products for importation into South Africa must be accompanied by an original veterinary import permit, issued by the National Directorate Animal Health, and an original health certificate, issued by the competent veterinary authority of the exporting country.
Biodiversity Act (NEM:BA), No. 10 of 2004 This is a new piece of legislation, administrated by the Department of Environmental Affairs, which aims to protect the country’s biodiversity by, amongst others, controlling alien and invasive organisms. Chapter 5 of this Act requires permits for carrying out restricted Activities involving any alien species that has not been exempted, or any listed invasive species. The restricted activities include importation, having under one’s control, propagating, selling, buying and translocating a specimen of the specific species. Organisms that are indigenous to the country but occur outside their natural range are also defined as alien species for the purposes of this Act. However, the regulations in terms of parts of this Act still have to be developed and it is not yet clear how this will affect farmers.
3. Control measures for Invasive Alien Plants www.agis.agric.za – the AGIS website contains a wealth of information about Invasive Alien Plants. Look for the “AGIS” menu option, go off the “Risk Management” onto “Weeds and Invader Plants”. One or a combination of the following control methods are used: mechanical (uprooting, felling, cutting, burning, brashing), chemical (treatment with registered herbicides), and biological control (find the Biocontrol chapter). Burning is also an option in certain environments and the Working on Fire programme can be contacted for assistance in this regard. An integrated management plan is recommended for any area invaded by invasive alien plants, to determine the order in which different alien species and sub-sections of the invaded area will be addressed, and to ensure that the most efficient and cost-effective combination of control methods is selected. Regular follow-up operations are very important and necessary to achieve control when using mechanical or chemical measures. The control should be strictly according to the label on the herbicide and no off label applications should be considered as this is guided by the Fertilizers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies Act, 1947 (Act No. 36 of 1947).
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The control of alien invasive plants can be very expensive in terms of manpower, material and equipment. If it is carried out incorrectly or if the wrong method is chosen, this expenditure could be in vain, and it could even result in huge environmental damage. Before deciding on the most effective, affordable and appropriate control option for invading alien plants in a particular situation, several factors need to be borne in mind e.g. control methods should be used that are appropriate for the species as well as ecosystems in which they occur. Find the “Guide to Clearing Alien Invasive Plants” menu options on www.dwa. gov.za/wfw. Biocontrol is a long term sustainable solution to the invasive plant control programme and works best in an integrated management system where it will augment the existing control programme and over the long term will reduce the costs of the other control methods thus making the control programme sustainable.
4. Rehabilitation of areas from which Invasive Alien Plants have been cleared Once invasive alien plants have been cleared from an area, it will certainly not be the end of the problem. Many plants have the ability to sprout or coppice from their roots or cut stumps unless the stumps are treated with suitable herbicides, resulting in a worse infestation than before. Large numbers of seeds of the invasive alien plants will still be in the soil, and these will germinate in huge numbers once more sunlight penetrates to the soil. The soil disturbance caused by the uprooting of trees also causes seeds of invasive species to germinate. Many alien legumes, such as the Australian Acacia species (wattles) have fire-resistant seeds that are stimulated by fires to germinate, while most other seeds of indigenous plants will be killed. Care must be taken in sensitive biomes such as the fynbos biome as the legume species have nitrogen fixing bacteria in their roots that cause an allelopathic effect and changes the soil composition thereby outcompeting the indigenous species. To prevent cleared areas from being overrun by invasive species again, follow-up actions have to be maintained for as many years as it takes. It is also very important to establish a more desirable form of vegetation in the cleared areas, e.g. fast-growing grass species. The following publications, which should be used in combination with eachother, serve as a guideline for the rehabilitation of areas cleared of invasive alien plants: • Rehabilitation recommendations after alien plant control. P Campbell. Plant Protection Research Institute Handbook No 3. PPRI: 1-43. • Grab-a-grass dial: guidelines for rehabilitation after alien plant control. PL Campbell. ARC-Plant Protection Research Institute. (Available for KwaZulu-Natal; Mpumalanga & the Northern Province; the Free State, Northern Cape, North West & Gauteng; Eastern Cape). Both are obtainable from PPRI, Book sales. Phone 012 808 8000. There is also information available from the Working for Water programme on (tollfree) 0800 005 376 or www.dwa.gov.za/wfw.
5. The Working for Water programme The fight against invasive alien plants (IAPs) is spearheaded by the Working for Water (WfW) programme, and administered through the Department of Water Affairs. This programme works in partnership with local communities, to whom it provides jobs. Other government departments are involved: Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF); Trade and Industry, Science and Technology, as well as with provincial departments of government. Research groups are involved: Agricultural Research Council – Plant Protection Research Institute (ARCPPRI), Center of Excellence for Invasion Biology (CIB), South African Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). The Global Invasive Species Programme (GISP) and the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) are involved. Partnerships have also been formed with the private sector through the South African Nursery Association (SANA) to educate the industry about new amendments to the law regarding IAPs and make sure the IAPs were no longer being sold. The partnership with SAPTA – South African Pet Traders Association highlights the dangers of aquatic
weeds and fish pond/aquarium species through awareness and education. Other initiatives for fighting invasive aliens include the Ukuvuka firefighting campaign, Working for Wetlands and WeedBuster Week. There is also collaboration with colleagues in other African countries on the biological and integrated control of several invasive alien plant species elsewhere in Africa, e.g. Water hyacinth, Cacti species, Prosopis species and their hybrids and Parthenium weed. Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), a floating aquatic plant from tropical South America, is now choking up rivers and water bodies across Africa, from Egypt to South Africa. In the Cape Floral Kingdom, the establishment of invasive tree species has decreased water supplies for nearby communities; increases fire hazards and threatens biodiversity, justifying government’s expenditure of US$40 million per year for a control programme. Working for Water is currently engaged in a number of co-governance arrangements with Programmes such as Working for Wetlands, Working on Fire, Working on Woodlands and Woodlots etc. These are all Programmes where invasive plants feature in their core business. Working for Water Programme Research and Development Unit Mr Ahmed Khan (Manager) Tel: 021 441 2729 / 082 908 7291 www.dwaf.gov.za/wfw
6. Sources of information on Invasive Alien Plants and their control Webpages: • Find the Webpages of PPRI’s Weeds Research Division on www.arc. agric.za. The PPRI electronic newsletter contains updates on IAS (weeds) research. Write to
[email protected] • www.agis.agric.za – the AGIS Weeds and Invasive Plants webpage. • Find the Info Pak Alien invaders under the Publications menu option at www.daff.gov.za • The Working for Water webpage – www.dwa.gov.za/wfw • International portal for Invasive alien Species toolkits of best prevention and management practices as well as early detection – www. invasivespeciesinfo.gov/toolkit/detection.shtml • There is also information available from WESSA on www.wessa.org.za and www.geocities.org/wessaaliens Publications: • Rehabilitation recommendations after alien plant control. P Campbell. Plant Protection Research Institute Handbook No 3. PPRI: 1-43. • Alien Weeds and Invasive Plants. L Henderson. Plant Protection Research Institute Handbook No. 12. ARC, Pretoria: 1-300. • Invasive aquatic plants. L Henderson & CJ Cilliers. Plant Protection Research Institute Handbook No. 16. ARC, Pretoria: 1-88. • Common weeds of crops and gardens in southern Africa/ Algemene onkruide in gewasse en tuine in Suidelike Afrika. C Botha. Agricultural Research Council, Potchefstroom.: 1-384. • Problem plants of South Africa. C Bromilow. Briza Publications, Arcadia: 1- 315. • Control of Unwanted Plants. Xact Information: 1-238. • Re-use of Invasive Alien Plants is an impressive booklet, commissioned by the Working for Water Programme Publications on indigenous replacement plants • Creative gardening with indigenous plants. A South African guide. P Joffe. Briza, Pretoria.: 1-372. • Making the most of indigenous trees. F Venter & JA Venter. 2nd Edition. Briza, Pretoria: 1-320. Farmer’s Weekly ran an article “Invasive alien trees make for good business” about a business operation near Bothaville which harvests the eucalyptus plantations around the town. The main benefit to farmers (apart from money earned from the timber), is that water flow on the farm is improved/.restored. Find the article at www.farmersweekly.co.za or dig up your old 12 June 2009 copy.
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Posters:
Other directorates:
• Beautiful but dangerous. More invasive alien plants of Durban and the eastern, sub-tropical region of South Africa, with some indigenous alternatives. Colour photographs of 42 species, their legal status, and contacts for control. Available from Durban Metro Environmental Management branch. Tel: 031 300 2517 • The big bad five. Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, 1997. Photographs and descriptions of five invasive aquatic plants in South Africa; advice and contact numbers. Available from Department of Water Affairs, Private Bag X313, Pretoria 0001. • Identifying our invading alien enemies. Working for Water Programme, 1998-2000. Photographs and line drawings of the most aggressive alien invaders in South Africa. Available from The Communication Project, PO Box 95823, Waterkloof, Pretoria, 0145. Posters are also available from other organisations like the Botanical Society of SA, the Environment Society of SA etc.
7. Roleplayers The Agricultural Colleges do training in courses in alien plant control. Find their details in the Agricultural Education and Training chapter. ARC-Plant Protection Research Institute www.arc.agric.za Weeds Research Division Mrs Hildegard Klein Tel: 012 356 9841
[email protected]
Research on biological and integrated control strategies to protect the country’s natural resources and biodiversity from the threat of invasive alien plants
Insect Ecology Division Dr Roger Price Tel: 012 356 9817
[email protected]
Research on the biological control of certain agricultural pests
Biosystematics Division Dr Ansie Dippenaar Tel: 012 356 9824
[email protected]
Identification of alien invertebrates (insects, spiders, mites, nematodes, fungi), and research on conservation biological control
Bull Maurice Trading Tel: 011 791 3705
[email protected] www.bullmaurice.com
Centre for Invasion Biology (CIB) Professor Dave Richardson
[email protected] www.sun.ac.za/cib
They manufacture a machine specially designed for the removal The CIB comprises a network of alien trees and plants that are of researchers throughout South invading our farmlands. Africa. Find their names and contact details on www.sun.ac.za. Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Directorate: Land Use and Soil Management Tel: 012 319 7685
[email protected] Provincial LUSM offices: Region
Telephone
Gauteng
012 319 7596
Limpopo
015 287 9943
Mpumalanga
013 755 1420 / 2614
North West
018 294 3343/4
Northern Cape
053 807 2600
Free State
051 409 2601
Eastern Cape
043 704 6800
Western Cape
021 984 9278
KwaZulu-Natal
033 345 3557/15
• Plant Health Tel: 012 319 6505/39
[email protected] • Agricultural Product Inspection Services Tel: 012 319 6100 DAPIS@daff. gov.za • Veterinary Services Tel: 012 319 7679
[email protected] Department of Water and Environmental Affairs Tel: 086 111 2468
[email protected] www.environment.gov.za EcoGuard Tel: 011 463 6057 www.ecoguard.co.za
JEC Environmental Services Tel: 082 828 7953
[email protected] “Specialists in the Environmental Consulting Industry” Natural Instincts Tel: 028 261 1159 / 082 602 0893
Plant Science Consultants “Solutions for Invader weed Association (PSCA) control” – provincial contact details Tel: 011 805 2000 are available on the website.
[email protected] ECOPLUG Tel: 021 873 1648 www.gisa.co.za/ecoplug Grassland Society of Southern Africa (GSSA) Tel: 049 842 4335 www.grassland.org.za Invader Plant Specialists Tel: 021 976 6127 / 082 412 7411
[email protected] [email protected] www.invaderplant.co.za
Poland Woodworks Cell: 072 200 8053 South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) Tel: 021 799 8600 / 839
[email protected] Stellenbosch University Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology Prof Michael Samways Tel: 021 808 3728
[email protected]
Find the Centre for Invasion Biology The Environmental Weed Control earlier under this heading course is designed for people embarking on a career controlling University of the Free State and managing alien invasive plants. Department of Plant Sciences Tel: 051 401 2514 Jacklin Organic
[email protected] Tel: 017 844 1589
[email protected] The Working for Water National Office www.jacklinorganic.co.za Dr Guy Preston (Chairperson and Wattle eradication and indigenous National Programme Leader) Tel: 0800 005 376 plants
[email protected]
8. Local business environment There are various downloads available on secondary industries small business “how to” documents – refer to www.dwa.gov.za/wfw/SecondaryInd/. Refer also to the booklet Re-use of Invasive Alien Plants, commissioned by the Working for Water Programme. The secondary industries component of the Working for Water programme manufactures products from the wood being cleared such as crafts and furniture, mulch, charcoal and smoke chips. Secondary industry initiatives provide an ideal opportunity to encourage entrepreneurship amongst people from historically disadvantaged communities. The programme is able to create a supportive and enabling environment through providing training and assisting with product design and market identification. In this manner, first-time entrepreneurs can develop and hone their newly acquired business skills. The development of small and micro-enterprises is a critical factor in the process of economic empowerment in South Africa. In terms of the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (Act 43 of 1983), it is illegal to have, transport, propagate, sell or buy declared weeds (category 1 weeds). This would make it an offence to farm with declared weeds, and to utilise their parts in such a way that the dispersal and multiplication of the species might be promoted.
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9. International business environment • Globally, the cost of damage caused by invasive species has been estimated to be £1.5 trillion per year – close to 5% of global GDP. • In developing countries, where agriculture accounts for a higher proportion of GDP, the negative impact of invasive species on food security as well as on economic performance, can be even greater. • Virtually all ecosystem types on the planet are affected by invasive species and they pose one of the biggest threats to biodiversity worldwide. • Globalisation through increased trade, transport, travel and tourism will inevitably increase the intentional or accidental introduction of organisms to new environments, and it is widely predicted that climate change will further increase the threat posed by invasive species. Source: www.cabi.org
CABI (formerly known as the Commonwealth Agricultural Bureaux) www.cabi.org CABI is a not-for-profit international organisation providing scientific expertise, knowledge and information. They have a long history researching invasive species that affect agriculture and the environment to find natural ways of controlling them. At any one time they are looking at around 60 invasive species. They have expertise in the increasingly important area of Sanitary and Phytosanitary – looking at the risk of invasive species to trade. They provide invasive species information products and services in invasive species such as the Invasive Species Compendium which is currently being developed. World Conservation Union (IUCN) Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG) www.issg.org
Global Invasive Species Programme (GISP) www.gisp.org The Global Invasive Species Programme (GISP) was founded in 1997 as a small, mainly voluntary partnership programme, by three international organisations: IUCN - The World Conservation Union, CAB International, and the Scientific Committee on Problems of the Environment (SCOPE). Since then, it has built upon a productive and highly technically skilled base to become the pre-eminent global partnership on invasive species. The GISP Secretariat is currently hosted by CABI Africa in Nairobi. Email
[email protected] or call +254-207224450. The Global Invasive Species Database provides global information on invasive alien species to agencies, resource managers, decision-makers, and interested individuals. Our gratitude to Mrs Hildegard Klein of the Agricultural Research Council for her initial input, and to Debbie Sharp for feedback beyond the call of duty on the draft chapter
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Resources and Good Agricultural Practice
LandCare 1. Overview The National LandCare Programme is a government supported initiative and is being implemented throughout the country. It is intended to be driven by both the public and private sector through partnerships and cooperation, a community-based programme that seeks to: • • • •
conserve our resources; use them in a sustainable way; create a conservation ethic through education and awareness; create jobs and address poverty by launching various natural resource rehabilitation, improvement and conservation projects.
3. WaterCare The WaterCare theme targets Limpopo in particular, because of water shortages and the importance of water for irrigation in the province. This theme establishes a framework for managing land and preventing the silt-up of dams for irrigation. WaterCare works in partnership with the community to develop action plans for managing and restoring irrigation schemes. The rehabilitation of irrigation schemes increases water supply and household food security. Furthermore, WaterCare promotes the development of techniques for water-resource management and encourages opportunities for training in this field.
4. VeldCare VeldCare promotes best grazing-systems and erosion-prevention practices to improve production. It develops and maintains agricultural activities in accordance with the principles of ecologically sustainable development within North West. Economic and social development opportunities are realised by improving grazing areas and maintaining viable grazing areas throughout rural communities.
Serious concerns about land and water degradation, which impact on sustainable resource use, are identified in each province, and specific projects address these issues. Projects have been implemented in all nine provinces through the Landcare Conditional Grant whereby ringed-fenced funding is transferred to provinces in terms of the yearly Division of Revenue Act. Provinces then undertake the implementation of the projects under set conditions.
5. SoilCare
Water care, Veld care, Soil care and Junior care initiatives are all part of this programme.
Through SoilCare, sustainable agricultural production systems are introduced, such as diversification, management of input and conservation tillage.
LandCare is about optimising productivity and the sustainable use of natural resources leading to increased agricultural production, food security, job creation and a better quality of life for all.
2. LandCare Why is LandCare important? • You and everyone else, rely on the land for food, shelter and an income. • Land is valuable and should be looked after – otherwise we will not be able to use it in the future. • If we degrade and misuse the land, our quality of life will deteriorate. • If we do not look after the land, we will pay a high price for the damage it suffers. LandCare is about: • redressing past resource degradation • correct resource management • communities working together • caring for the land in your area • your future quality of life • improving the environment • securing food for tomorrow What can you do? • form or join a land care group in your community and get involved; • plan and manage land to prevent degradation; • restore damaged areas; • promote conservation practices; • form a land care conservancy (see Conservancies chapter); • recycle and re-use paper, glass, plastic and metal;.
SoilCare encourages rural farmers in KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga to build innovative structures to combat soil erosion, and to address the depletion of soil fertility and low soil acidity which severely limit the production potential.
6. JuniorCare The objectives of JuniorCare are to empower previously disadvantaged youth through training in facilitation and leadership skills. This includes the promotion of food security at home and at schools, awareness of sustainable agriculture, and stimulating the formation of youth clubs and projects that aim to promote other components of LandCare. JuniorCare addresses the needs of young people in an integrated way and involves interdisciplinary approaches.
7. Invasive Alien Plants South Africa has a major problem with alien invasive plants. The 198 identified species of invader plants deplete up to 10% of our annual water supply, displace indigenous plants, cause fire and soil erosion as well as endanger many of our animals. The Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (43 of 1983) has regulations listing invasive alien plants that fall into one of three categories: • Category 1 Plants that must be removed • Category 2 Plants that may only be kept in demarcated areas, but which must otherwise be removed • Category 3 Plants where existing may be retained (except within 30 metres of the 1:50 floodline of watercourses or wetlands), but may not be allowed to spread, and which may not be propagated or sold For more on Alien Invasive Plants, please see the chapter Alien Invasive Species
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8. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF • Visit www.daff.gov.za. Details of the numerous LandCare projects can be found on a MS Excel spreadsheet. • Reports concerning various LandCare projects can also be found can be found on www.agis.agric.za – take the “Advisories and Reports”, and then “Projects” menu options. The Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, 1983 (Act No. 43 of 1983) (CARA) is an act of the National Department of Agriculture and makes provision for the conservation of the natural agricultural resources of South Africa through: • • • • •
maintaining the production potential of land; combating and preventing erosion; preventing the weakening or destruction of the water sources; protecting the vegetation; and combating weeds and invader plants.
Directorate: Land Use and Soil Management Tel: 012 319 7656 www.daff.gov.za LandCare SA Helpline: Tel: 012 319 7553 In the Western Cape, you can contact the LandCare Manager at 021 808 5090 or at
[email protected]. For the LandCare co-ordinator in the other provinces, contact the provincial Land Use and Soil Management (LUSM) offices, details to the right. Region
Telephone
Gauteng
012 319 7596
Limpopo
015 287 9943
Mpumalanga
013 755 1420 / 2614
North West
018 294 3343/4
Northern Cape
053 807 2600
Free State
051 409 2601
Eastern Cape
043 704 6800
Western Cape
021 984 5090
KwaZulu-Natal
033 345 3557/15
Want to form a LandCare group? Before you apply, please contact the local LandCare Manager or facilitator for assistance (contact details under the previous heading). If you are successful, you will be asked to sign a programme management agreement. This agreement sets out the conditions for funding, including your responsibility to keep proper accounting records for the spending of funds from grants, and reporting requirements on the progress and results of your programme.
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Resources and Good Agricultural Practice
Organic farming “Sustainable and Integrated Agriculture”
1. Overview What are organics all about? It’s about producing goods that work in harmony with, and not against, nature. The aim is to eradicate the use of harmful chemicals by making effective use of nature’s natural resources. All organic products are also free of genetically modified organisms (organisms that have had their basic gene structure modified by the addition of external organism genes).
animals grow more slowly on natural grazing, hence more land is needed and higher interest costs are incurred. The certified farm has to produce 90% of the feed on the farm. Certified Organic meat is a guarantee that meat has been produced free from any additives such as chemicals, antibiotics and hormones, and kept separate in the supply chain to the consumer. As only natural, biodegradable products are used, water and the environment become cleaner. Farmers and their workers enjoy healthier working conditions. Organic animals are produced in harmony with the land, environment and native wildlife. This can only be good for future generations. Regarding Antibiotics: The standards (EU 2092/91 and the draft NDA regulations) allow for “two courses of treatments with chemically-synthesised allopathic veterinary medicinal products or antibiotics within one year or more than one course of treatment if their productive lifecycle is less than one year”. If livestock receive more than this, they and their produce may not be sold as organic, and the livestock must go back into conversion. Quote is from the EU 2092/91 standards.
What is Organic farming? Organic agriculture is a production system that sustains the health of soils, ecosystems and people. It relies on ecological processes, biodiversity and cycles adapted to local conditions, rather than the use of inputs with adverse effects. Organic agriculture combines tradition, innovation and science to benefit the shared environment and promote fair relationships and a good quality of life for all involved. Examples of organic farming methods include: • Rotating crops between fields. This helps keep pests from building up and improves soil fertility. • Planting selected herbs and flowers to attract beneficial insects which ward off unwanted pests. • Using biological insecticides and make use of pests’ natural predators to control pest populations. Organic farming produces nutrient rich, fertile soil which nourishes the plants. Keeping chemicals off the land protects water quality and wild life. It’s also about practising good animal welfare where everything from breeding, rearing and handling, to feeding of animals is strictly regulated and a free range lifestyle is implemented.
The soil Organic farming refers to a system as a whole entity in ecological balance. Soil fertility is promoted by compost, cover crops, crop rotation, green manuring, minimum tillage, mulching, valuing of the biodiversity and avoiding synthetic chemical inputs. The principle is to treat the soil with respect knowing that the soil is the base for life on earth. The basis of organic farming is thus to feed the soil and not the plant directly. Organic matter is this ‘feed’. The organic farmer is interested in balancing soil processes and is not as focused on balancing numbers as a consequence to soil analysis. A good organic soil structure is able to hold large amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, iron and other micronutrients, essential in providing the plants with a balanced diet for healthy growth. A good soil structure will optimise water infiltration and retention and is also important in the control of erosion by wind and water.
Diseases and pests The approach to pests and diseases by the organic farmer is that these are seen as symptomatic of imbalances in the soil’s fertility and health. There are too many pests and diseases as well as remedies to mention. The plant, like any living organism, develops a natural resistance to pests and disease attack. This resistance depends on the nutrition of the organism.
Organic meat Organic animal suppliers have strict protocols that include treating their cattle humanely and allowing them to mature naturally. They are grazed naturally in a free-range environment minimising stress and producing high quality meat that is free from contaminants. It costs more to produce as the
The health benefits The hazards for human health of consuming products contaminated by harmful pesticides include increased risks of cancer, reproductive problems and neurological damage. Organically grown produce on the other hand is free of chemical residues, has a much higher vitamin and mineral content and is usually more flavoursome (which is why many top restaurants prefer to use organic ingredients).
Certification There are two levels of organic classification: Organic Certification and Organic in Conversion. Also find the note on Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) later in this chapter. A Certified organic product means that the produce and the farming process has been inspected over a period by an independent, specialist certification agency to verify organic authenticity to the consumer. This process normally takes place over a timeframe of about 3 years. During the process, producers may communicate on products that they are “organic in conversion” (as may be seen for example on some major retailers products). These certification organisations really have only one reason for existence: to provide assurance to the consumer that products and organisations which claim to be organic, really do meet organic standards. Several certification agencies exist across the country, and these include Eco Cert, SGS, Afrisco and The Soil Association. Any certification program should be able to give you their standards upon request and will usually comply with the International Federation of Organic Movement (IFOAM) standards. Look for the certification seal or name of the certification agency label. When you see this claim, it means: • No harmful chemicals have been applied for at least 3 years. • The farmer and processor have annual certification inspections. • They have kept detailed records of their practices and have a recorded audit trail. • They use ecologically-friendly methods and substances to improve the soil and control pests. To check that a product has been certified, look at the product label. Does the product display the name and/or logo of a certification program? If not, ask questions. Be aware that often manufactured products contain certified ingredients, but the processing itself may not be certified. (When in doubt, call the manufacturer and ask about the certifier they use.) If you are buying fresh products, your retailer should be able to tell you who certified the product from the records that are kept in the store. A certificate indicating the certification programme should always accompany bulk products. Based almost completely on information from www.go-organic.co.za with input from other roleplayers.
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2. Certification – you cannot be “Organic” by default You’re thinking of going organic. There is a burgeoning international demand, led by Europe, the US and Japan. But consumers and retailers want strong assurances of food safety and genuine organic methods.
Why should you certify? • Products look the same as conventional products. • Consumers have a right to know that production has been organic (especially if paying more). • To protect farmers who are following the rules from the bad reputations of those who are not. • To obtain access to high value markets, in South Africa and abroad. Certification is a way to ensure that products are in line with local and international standards set.
Elements of a certification system: • • • • •
Standards – that you must adhere to; Contracts – your promise to uphold organic methods; Inspection – are done annually; Certification, approval of your farm and the methods you are using; Management – of the same pests and diseases, but without chemicals (you must have plans for this), this includes fertility programs as well • Labelling – that the consumers can trust; • Information exchange – this establishes the Audit trail securing organic status from seed to table because it isn’t easy at first, and there’s a lot to learn.
So what should you do? • Ask certifiers for information as well as standards. • Send in an application form, with basic information. • Ask for an estimate for inspection and certification for a year (make sure it covers all steps of the process). • Study the requirements (lots on the internet). • Understand conversion issues. • Develop a plan for dealing with soil fertility, pests , disease and weed control management. • Talk to other organic farmers. • Establish your market. • Speak to consultants. • If it all looks good, choose a certifier and pay to start the certification process.
Inspections involve: The inspection is a verification of information obtained through the application documentation. • Production system – Is it really organic? • Operator – Does s/he know enough to manage organically? Is she/he committed? • Environment, contamination – Will your neighbours’ crop spray blow onto your fields? Is there good biodiversity? • Fields – Has it been 3 years since the last use of chemicals? Are plants and animals looking good? • Livestock – Is animal welfare respected? What veterinary treatments are common-place? • Brought in materials, seeds – Are they organic too? Are they GMOfree? How do you know? • Pest and weed control – How is it achieved? • Fertility management – Are there real efforts to build up soil nutrition?
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• Storage and processing – Could organic products get mixed up with conventional ones by mistake? This should secure the possibility of comingling, substitution and contamination • Documentation – Is record keeping good enough to show that only organic methods have been used? Is traceability secure? • Sales, labels – Did you sell only what you produced?
Possible outcomes • • • • •
full organic status full status with conditions organic in conversion organic in conversion with conditions certification denied
Biodynamic farmers use of range of specially formulated herbal and/or organic preparations to enhance soil, plant and animal life, fertility and vitality. They develop their farms into unique and distinct individualities that use a minimum of external inputs. Their aim is to produce the highest quality food, fibre and timber with no or very limited negative impact on the environment. In an effort to create a harmonious whole, the farmer works with the natural and cosmic cycles, rhythms and forces that regulate life on earth. For further information email the National Co-ordinator, Liesl Haasbroek at
[email protected] or visit www.bdaasa.org.za.
6. Vegan Organic farming
Internal Control System guidelines are available from certification bodies like SGS South Africa, Afrisco (Ecocert), the Biodynamic and Organic Certification Authority (BDOCA). Find their details under heading 11. Other certification is offered by the Control Union and BCS (Öko-Garantie GmbH).
Most farmers are dependent on chemicals and animal by-products – and even those specialising in organic farming use animal manures and slaughterhouse by-products (bone meal, compost etc). How to go about farming without animals or animal by-products? Visit www.veganorganic.net.
Find the very useful notes at www.faithful-to-nature.co.za/OrganicCertification-sp-8.html
7. Associations involved
Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) An alternative start-up strategy for emerging farmers is PGS. • Contact Rainman Landcare Foundation for assistance in setting up your own PGS. • PGS only works for small local markets. • It is a simple, non-bureaucratic way to start building a quality management system. Contact Dr Raymond Auerbach at 084 567 1250 or write to
[email protected].
3. Biological farming See separate chapter
4. Permaculture See separate chapter
5. Biodynamics Biodynamics is an approach to sustainable organic agriculture inspired by the philosophy of Anthroposophy as developed by Rudolf Steiner in the late 19th - early 20th centuries in Europe. In the term “biodynamic” the bio refers to the biological (organic) aspects of agriculture (i.e. the physical soil, water, plants, animals etc.); whereas the dynamic refers to the cosmic formative forces that underlie the physical world. Biodynamic agriculture respects the fact the whole of the universe, i.e. the planet earth and the whole surrounding cosmic space with all its heavenly bodies, forms one indivisible whole and should be managed as such.
Find details of the following under heading 11: • • • •
South African Organic Sector Organisation Bio-Dynamic Agricultural Association of Southern Africa (BDAASA) Network of Eco Farms in Africa South Africa (NECOFASA) South African Council for Organic Development and Sustainability (SACODAS)
8. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Department of Agriculture: Food Safety and Quality Assurance Neil Erasmus Tel: 012 319 6027 / 7306
[email protected] The Directorate Food Safety and Quality Assurance is inter alia responsible for setting quality standards for certain Agricultural products and have draft regulations for organically produced products. Agricultural Product Standards Act 119 of 1990 standard downloadable from: www.daff.gov.za
9. Training and research Visit www.organic-research.com. See also the separate permaculture chapter
Find details of the following under heading 11: • • • • • • • • • •
ABALIMI African Organic Farming Foundation The Agricultural Research Council Dovehouse Organic Farm, Shop, Training Lindros Whole Earth Consultants Rainman Landcare Foundation Sustainability Institute Stellenbosch University University of the Free State University of KwaZulu-Natal
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10. Websites and publications www.go-organic.co.za. Find the directory, news and reviews and other options here. See the websites of companies and associations involved e.g. www. lindros.co.za, www.africanorganics.org etc. Find more websites under the “International Business Environment” heading. Lindros have written and published the Organic Agriculture Handbook, written for South African conditions. They have also written and published Global Health in Crisis, the Answer lies in the Soil. Contact them at 082 719 7263 or write to
[email protected]. Contact Hans E Klink for some excellent writing on organic farming. Speak to him at 021 851 2403 or write to
[email protected]. Articles include: • Ten good reasons for organic agriculture • Organic regulation and certification • Organic management • Organic agriculture in its economic context • Healthy soils • Organic pest and disease control Find the “Bookshop” menu option on www.organic-research.com Viewing articles on this website requires a subscription. A 30-day free trial is available. Other books include: • Organic Food Processing & Production (U.K.) ISBN No: 0-632-05541-3. • The Agrodok Series: Small-scale Sustainable Agriculture in the Tropics (Netherlands). Series of publications on various topics • Soil Fertility – Renewal and Preservation. E. Pfeiffer. The Lanthorn Press. ISBN 0 906155 12 6 • Organic Manure. Nikolaus Remer. Mercury Press. ISBN 0 – 929979 – 62 – 1 • Bio-Dynamic Gardening. John Soper. Bio-Dynamic Agricultural Association. ISBN 0 – 9503780 – 7 – 0 • Introduction to Permaculture. Bill Mollison. Tagari Publications. ISBN 0 – 7074 – 1105 – 4 • The Bio-Dynamic Farm. Herbert H Koepf. Anthroposophic Press. ISBN 0 – 88010 – 172 – 5 • Grasp the Nettle. Peter Proctor. Random House. ISBN 1 – 86941 – 318 –0 • Agriculture. Rudolph Steiner. Anthroposophic Press • The Living Soil. EB Balfour. Faber and Faber • Fertility Farming. Newman Turner. Faber and Faber • Fertility without Fertilisers. Lawrence D Hills. Henry Doubleday research association • The Complete Herbal Handbook for farm and stable. Juliette de Baïracli Levy. Faber and Faber. ISBN 0 – 571 – 13205 – 7
• The treatment of Cattle by Homoeopathy. George Macleod. The CW Daniel Company LTD. ISBN 0 – 85207 – 247 – 3 • Farming and gardening for health or Disease. Sir Albert Howard. Faber and Farber • Humus and the Farmer. Friend Sykes. Faber and Faber • Farmers of Forty Centuries. F. H. King. Rodale Press. ISBN 0 – 87857 – 054 - 3 • Find the International websites under heading 13.
11. Companies and associations involved Find the Directory on www.go-organic.co.za. You can do a search according to category, province and product. Take a look at other relevant chapters in this directory, too e.g. Compost and Organic Fertiliser, Earthworms and Vermicompost, Permaculture, Biocontrol” etc. ABALIMI Tel/fax: 021 371 1653 Cell: 082 331 9133
[email protected] www.abalimi.org.za African Organic Farming Foundation Tel: 011 215 2556 / 082 858 8479
[email protected] www.africanorganics.org Afrisco – see Ecocert-Afrisco Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Plant Protection Research Institute Tel: 012 808 8000/427 9700 www.arc.agric.za The Plant Protection Research Institute has the expertise to advise on all aspects of pesticides (synthetic and botanical), on biopesticides, such as mycoinsectides and mycoherbicides, as well on the biological control of insect pests in general.
Agro Organics Tel: 021 851 2403 www.agro-organics.co.za Biodynamic Agricultural Association of Southern Africa (BDAASA) Tel/fax: 082 858 6523
[email protected] www.bdaasa.org.za BDAASA is an association of farmers, gardeners, small-holders and people interested in working with biodynamic agriculture. An annual conference is held with a contextual theme. A quarterly newsletter is sent to all members and an Astral Planting Calendar is published annually. Biodynamic and Organic Certification Authority (BDOCA) Tel: 012 650 0284 / 079 504 4729 Fax: 086 511 7741 www.bdoca.co.za
The core function of the BDOCA Institute for Tropical and Subtropical is to certify farms as Organic or Crops Bio-Dynamic, based on the South Romeo Murovhi African National Department of Tel: 013 753 7101 / 083 545 4786
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Agriculture’s draft organic standards and Demeter International’s standards for Bio-Dynamic production. BDOCA currently has 12 trained inspectors throughout the country. The certification is controlled by the International Federation of Organic Agricultural Movement (IFOAM).
Ecocert-Afrisco (Pty) Ltd The South African office of Ecocert SA Tel/fax: 012 349 1070
[email protected] www.afrisco.net www.ecocert.com Eco-fert Tel: 021 979 1737 / 975 0561 www.eco-fert.co.za
Bio-Fly (Pty) Ltd Tel: 022 942 17682 / 083 601 7221 SGS registration – qualifying as
[email protected] fertiliser for First World export www.biofly.co.za crops. Bio-insectaries SA (BISA) Tel: 042 286 0978 Cell: 083 270 4866
[email protected] www.bioinsectsa.com Biogrow Tel: 028 313 2054
[email protected] www.biogrow.co.za Natural organic solutions Blue Sky Organics Tel: 021 715 1953 / 083 653 3635 Certified organic olive trees, bottled olive products and olive oil. Consulting is done to farmers wanting to go organic or to convert to organic/sustainable methods. Den Vet Tel: 033 343 1093
[email protected] www.denvet.co.za
Efficient Microbes Tel: 031 266 2935 www.efficientmicrobes.co.za Elgin Organics Tel: 021 849 8663 www.elginorganics.com South African Organic Pome Fruit (apples, pears, peaches) Faithful to Nature Tel: 021 783 0173 www.faithful-to-nature.co.za Products include cosmetics, organic food and literature. Jacklin Organic Tel: 017 844 1589 www.jacklinorganic.co.za Certified organic compost production and fresh and processed fruit and vegetables.
Lindros Whole Earth Organic feed additives, veterinary Consultants remedies, veterinary instruments Tel: 082 719 7263
[email protected] Dovehouse Organic Farm, www.lindros.co.za Shop, Training Tel: 033 330 3554 / 084 292 4354 MBB Consulting Engineers
[email protected] Tel: 021 887 1026 www.dovehouse.co.za www.mbb.co.za
Mycoroot (Pty) Ltd Tel: 046 603 8443
[email protected] www.mycoroot.com Mycoroot is “the home of mycorrhizal fungi”, an organic microbial fertiliser that “boosts yield and production by enhancing soil health and plant root functioning”. Natural & Organic Products Exhibition Tel: 021 671 0935
[email protected] National Plant Food Tel: 031 782 3105
[email protected]
“FERTILIS” (registration no B3664 Act36/1947) is certified by the Organic Food Federation UK: organic certification no: 00371/01/00. Plant Health Products (Pty) Ltd (PHP) Tel/fax: 033 266 6130
[email protected] www.plant-health.co.za Research, develop, produce and market innovative biocontrol products for Agriculture, Horticulture and Viticulture.
Rainman Landcare Foundation Tel: 031 783 4412
[email protected] Network of Eco Farms in Africa www.rainman.co.za South Africa (NECOFASA). Contact Lindros at 082 719 7263. A registered trust which teaches farmers how to farm organically, National Organic Produce and how to set up farmer’s Initiative (NOPI) associations which can be certified Tel: 011 887 0800 organic, enabling farmers to access Thierry.Revert@rgcengineering. the growing organic market, co.za domestically and internationally.
[email protected] SGS South Africa (Pty) Ltd Organic Emporium Tel: 011 680 3466 Tel: 011 704 0786 www.za.sgs.com www.organicemporium.co.za Certification and conversion An online store of organic products for consumers in the Northern South African Council for Johannesburg suburbs Organic Development and Sustainability (SACODAS) is a Organic World stakeholders’ forum of member Tel: 011 795 2468 organisations that are committed to
[email protected] guide and govern the Public-Private www.organicworld.co.za Partnership between government and the organic industry for the A “comprehensive range of healthy implementation of a national and delicious foods” programme called the National Organic Produce Initiative (NOPI). Planner Bee Plant Care Tel/fax: 011 888 4215 Inland Region: Thierry Alban Revert Cell: 083 255 5828 Tel: 011 887 8000 or email Thierry. www.fertilis.co.za
[email protected] Coastal Region: Aletha Venter Tel: 023 231 0513 or email
[email protected]
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South African Organic Sector Organisation C/o Dr Raymond Auerbach Tel: 031 783 4412
[email protected] Stellenbosch University Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology Prof Michael Samways Tel: 021 808 3728 Sustainability Institute Tel: 021 881 3196 www.sustainabilityinstitute.net Stimuplant Tel: 012 802 0940 / 4009
[email protected] www.stimuplant.sa.gs
University of the Free State Centre for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Tel: 051 401 2163
[email protected] www.ufs.ac.za/censard University of KwaZulu-Natal Tel: 033 260 5667 www.ukzn.ac.za The Department of Plant Pathology conducts research on the biological control of crop pests and diseases. Wensleydale farm Tel: 012 650 0064
[email protected] www.wensleydale.co.za
The biggest organic producer of Biological solutions and growth vegetables in South Africa. stimulants
12. Local business environment • Organic producers and processors network at www.go-organic.co.za • Read about South Africa’s “original green trade and consumer event” – www.naturalandorganic.co.za Organic farming is economically and environmentally sustainable because the export market is well established and looking for professional producers. Compared to the EU, the USA and Japan, our domestic market is small, even if it is growing. If a farmer is able to produce crops and livestock of consistent high quality and quantity, there will no doubt be a ready market for his goods. Countries further north are stepping up to the mark faster than South African producers: South Africa now has 300 farmers certified, while Uganda has 300 000! Woolworths, together with its suppliers, is aiming to ensure that South Africa will be able sustain the sufficient growth of fresh produce in the long-term with its ‘Farming for the Future’ initiative, launched today, 3 November 2009. Farming for the Future is geared to radically improve soil and plant health, preserve resources like water and soil and protect biodiversity. Initial trials show yields and quality are more consistent and land, water, insecticide, pesticide and fertiliser usage is reduced. Currently, more than 50% of Woolworth’s fresh produce is farmed this way and these new farming techniques will be implemented at all the brand’s produce supplier farms around the country. By 2012, Woolworths intends to have all its locally grown fresh goods – which accounts for over 90% of its fresh produce – either organically produced or grown through the Farming for the Future approach. Find the whole article “Woolworths on the good business journey to sustainable farming” at www.bizcommunity.com
Organic Markets Western Cape • Rondebosch Organic Market – 021 696 5749 • Constantia Waldorf Organic and Biodynamic Market – 082 569 9894 • Timour Hall Organic and Biodynamic Farmers market – 082 569 9894 • Stellenbosch Fresh Goods Market – www.slowfood.co.za Gauteng • Go Green Markets – 082 600 8077 www.go-greenmarkets.com • Bryanston Organic Market – 011 706 3671 www.bryanstonorganicmarket. co.za • Irene Village Market – 012 667 1659 www.irenemarket.co.za • Parkview Organic Market – 076 022 7937
KwaZulu-Natal • Karkloof Market – 082 820 8986 • Pietermaritzburg Farmers Market – 033 345 4656 or write to
[email protected]
13. International business environment For current statistics on organic farming, visit www.fibl.ch and the other websites listed under this heading. International Federation of Organic Agricultural Movement (IFOAM)
[email protected] www.ifoam.org International umbrella body for organic farming International WWOOF Association (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) www.wwoof.org This association is dedicated to helping those who would like to volunteer on organic farms internationally. The aims of WWOOF are to: • • • •
enable people to learn first-hand about organic growing techniques; to enable town-dwellers to experience living and helping on a farm; to help farmers make organic production a viable alternative; to improve communications within the organic movement.
UK Soil Association – www.soilassociation.org. The Soil Association’s symbol appears on around 70% of organic food produced in the UK. Take a look at these websites: • www.qlif.org – Quality Low Input Food is an integrated project funded by the European Commission. Find news of the “biggest study into organic food yet” on this website. Researchers grew fruit and vegetables and reared cattle on adjacent organic and non-organic sites in the UK and in Europe. A further study, “The Organic Green Revolution” was done by the Rodale Institute and can be found at www.rodaleinstitute. org. This paper reports that organic agriculture can, and should be used to, feed the world. • www.fao.org/organicag – the FAO Organic Agriculture Programme • www.organicagcentre.ca – Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada • www.organic-europe.net – site maintained by the Swiss Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FIBL) • www.fibl.ch – The Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (Forschungsinstitut für biologischen Landbau – FiBL) is “the world’s leading information and documentation centre for organic agriculture”. • Sustainable Earth Electronic Library – www.envirolink.org • www.organicaginfo.org – The site contains information on production, economic data, research results, farmer anecdotes, certification information, transition strategies, as well as many other subjects related to organic agriculture. • www.ofrf.org – Organic Farming Research Foundation (USA) • www.biodynamics.com – Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Association (USA) • www.researchandmarkets.com – a 2009 report analysed the organic fruit and vegetable market in 17 European countries • Since 1977 Bio-Center Zann have been importing and exporting organic fruit and vegetables, all over Europe to supermarkets. Because of the increased demand for certified organic fruits and vegetables, they are looking for companies and growers in South Africa who are interested to expand their business in this production line. Visit www. zannorganics.com • www.gardenorganic.org.uk – the UK’s “Leading organic growing charity” • www.agroecology.org and www.canunite.org for notes on agroecology • www.polyfacefarms.com – the farmer who has gone “beyond organic” (for those of you who saw the movie Food Inc)
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14. Small-scale farmer news Many new South African farmers are currently organic by default. With a little help they can become organic by design. The promotion of small-scale production is a requirement for the growth of this sector. Find the document Market Research on the organic and natural products and fynbos industry – with an emphasis on how to facilitate entry on www. spp.org.za, website of the Surplus People Project. Related publications include Pesticide heath risks for South African emerging farmers. The main criticism levelled at organic agriculture is that it cannot feed the world. But this might be a failure of the economic system in which we operate rather than the inherent capacity of the approach. While it is true that organic agriculture cannot produce massive surpluses by forcing super-growth, over the long term productivity equals out: organic production is more consistent over time; it is more environmentally sustainable and it creates local economic stability. Can community-based organic agriculture play a meaningful role in achieving food security? One of its biggest advantages is that organic agricultural methods can easily be transferred to people with few or no previous skills – albeit at a basic level. In just four days, anyone can obtain the basic skills which, if applied (with some guidance) over two seasons, will result in a permanent ability to grow productive survival or subsistence gardens at low cost. Although more advanced levels of organic farming require much more training, with the basics in place it is possible to kick-start self-sustaining community farming and gardening in uncontested land such as backyard plots, rural smallholdings, school yards, in servitude and commonage land. Basic-level training can therefore provide a foundation for localised food security among the poor. Organic bio-dynamic farming and gardening is most readily adaptable to poor or emerging farmers who cannot easily access costly external inputs and high-tech training. It has the added advantage of being spontaneously community building and because it uses human-scale technology, it is also labour intensive and has the potential – beyond meeting subsistence needs – to create jobs. It is now a proven fact that a reasonable living, after costs, is possible off 500 square metres or less, selling organic vegetables at street prices. Here in South Africa there is now a grassroots organic-friendly farming movement among the poor, involving many thousands who are mobilising to defeat food insecurity. Leading examples are the Vukuzenzela Urban Farmers Association (VUFA) in Cape Town, the Master Farmers Association (MFA) in the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape Ubuntu Farmers Association (WEKUFU). Source: adapted from an article by Rob Small from ABALIMI in the CSI Handbook 8th edition, published by Trialogue
ABALIMI Tel/fax: 021 371 1653 / 082 331 9133
[email protected] www.abalimi.org.za Every year, nearly 3000 subsistence gardeners and 200 community agriculture and greening projects are supplied with inputs from Abalimi’s two non-profit People’s Garden Centres. The economic potential is big, as there is a high and ever growing demand for organic vegetables in Cape Town. Organic Markets and retailers large and small are always undersupplied. Get updates from their newsletter. African Organic Farming Foundation
[email protected] www.africanorganics.org AOFF’s Marketing and Agro-Business Development (MAED) Program is a market-led, trade capacity building partnership that facilitates the inclusion of the resource-poor emerging farmers in organic production and trade by building partnerships that link small farmers with markets to improve food security, incomes and strengthen local capacity to manage agriculture and natural resources.
Farmer’s Weekly ran an article “resurrect soil with living fertiliser” about a farmer who turned the fortunes of a farm by attending to bankrupt soils. Francois Visser also made 33% of the farm’s shares available to his workers in recognition of their invaluable contribution to the farm. The workers are now directly affected by the farm’s profitability – and key to the farm’s success. Visser can be contacted at 023 312 1611. Find the article in the archives at www.farmersweekly.co.za. In South Africa, the NOPI (National Organic Produce Initiative) offers an opportunity for communities to become self sufficient, sovereign and prosperous. Projects take three to four years to become sustainable. The base of them all is building communal agro-ecology management principles around food gardens to cater for local community markets first. Once they generate surplus and savings they expand to other value chains. Find more at www.nopilife.org or phone SACODAS (contact details under heading 11). See also page 463.
Organic Farms Group Tel: 084 444 6310 www.organicfarmsgroup.com “Training, Mentorship”. Vukuzakhe Project, the Youth Group website.
marketing and Find news of the Organic Farming Umyawolwabasha and others on the
Organic Freedom Project (OFP) Tel: 021 671 0935/ www.ofp.co.za The OFP is a non-profit organisation founded to promote job creation and sustainable trade through organic farming, and the processing and marketing of organic products.
Rainman Landcare Foundation Tel: 031 783 4412
[email protected] www.rainman.co.za A registered trust which teaches farmers how to farm organically, and how to set up farmer’s associations which can be certified organic, enabling farmers to access the growing organic market, domestically and internationally. They have developed a Quality Management course for Small Producer Groups, run learnerships in organic farming at NQF 2 and also teach organic facilitators (NQF 5). Rainman Landcare Foundation is an AgriSETA accredited provider. Rainman is setting up a Participatory Guarantee Support Network with PELUM South Africa, and national organic agriculture movements in Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. How do I convert to organic farming? 1. Plan the layout of your farm. 2. Plan your crop rotation – include the planting of plants which will attract beneficial insects to help with soil fertility and pest control. 3. Implement organic pesticide and disease control immediately. 4. Start making your own compost. 5. Decide whether to convert in one go, or over a period of time with organic fertilisers and compost. 6. Start making organic seedlings from organic and untreated seed. 7. Register with a certification body and prepare for an organic certification audit. Source: GO farming Volume 2. No 2.
Our thanks to Dr Raymond Auerbach, Hans Klink, Rob Small, Liesl Haasbroek and Ian Robinson for feedback on the draft chapter.
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Resources and Good Agricultural Practice
Permaculture 1. Overview Permaculture is a systems design response to the downward spiral into unsustainability that the world has been involved in for the last 150 years (at least). The name Permaculture is derived from “permanent”, “agriculture” and “culture”. Australian professor Bill Mollisson and his student Dave Holmgren coined this phrase in 1978, to describe their design framework for sustainable development. Permaculture is a system based on natural ecosystem processes: through consciously combining plant, animal, built environment and energy systems, it endeavours to create sustainable human habitats, settlements and agriculturally productive systems. The intention is to design productive systems that ultimately generate more energy than they consume, with no negative impact on the natural or social environment. There are tens of thousands of Permaculturalists the world over who have implemented this design strategy, in a huge range of climates and contexts. The UN has recognised Permaculture as a useful intervention in areas that have experienced natural disasters, or post-war situations. Because it is a multidisciplinary approach, many techniques like Organics, Biodynamics and other agricultural practices are incorporated within its framework. Permaculture systems do not use economic performance as the only measure of success. The ethics and principles will explain this further.
2. Ethics and principles ETHICS Permaculture is rooted in a set of ethics, which guide decisions that designers, agriculturalists and builders use in their daily activities. These ethics evolved out of the need to create behavioral and implementation patterns that would be beneficial to both the human and natural environment. Underpinning all of the ethics is the fundamental realisation that we are dependant on a planet that has limited, and damaged resources, and that we must work within this reality. 1. Earth Care – all activities maintain the integrity of the natural resource base. 2. People Care – all activities are aimed at empowering ourselves and other human beings, bearing Earth Care in mind 3. Surplus Share – all extra resources are utilised to improve earth and People care. 4. Set Limits To Consumption.
PRINCIPLES Permaculture has basic design principles that one works from, in any context. One could call these sustainability guidelines. They are simple, practical and achievable.
Work with Nature rather than against Her Working with nature means: observe and understand your context, as well as the larger factors which affect you. This is done through mapping, research into local ecologies, weather, investigation and talking to locals! Secondly, aim to enhance the resources you discover by working with the forces you encounter, and turning problems into solutions.
Relative location Place elements in your system where they are most effective (elements are any component in your design: a house, a barn, cattle, gardens, extensive crops etc). By placing the elements where they are most needed, you reduce the amount of work and energy you have to expend. This principle also leads to creating relationships between design elements to enhance productivity and efficiency. A good example is using water from aquaculture ponds to irrigate food production areas.
Efficicent energy planning Every element in a Permaculture system should be placed where it functions most efficiently. This is known as Zone, Sector and Slope Planning. Zone planning Elements are placed in zones according to how many times you need to use and visit them, as well as the amount of inputs they require. Areas that need visiting every day for harvesting and maintenance (such as annual vegetable gardens, the nursery, chickens, recycling area, etc) must be placed near the house to facilitate easy access so that these systems are well observed and maintained. Places and systems visited less frequently are placed further away from the main centre of activity (orchards, staple food systems, woodlots, animal systems, etc) because these places require less attention and are harvested less frequently. The design is thus divided into Zones radiating outwards from the centre of activity. • Zone 0 – House or business • Zone 1 – Intensive vegetable gardens, nursery and small animal systems • Zone 2 – An orchard or mixed food forest (perennial species); and staple food systems (grains and tubers). • Zone 3 – This can incorporate large-scale semi-managed systems such as woodlots; large animal fodder systems and aquaculture. • Zone 4 – Semi managed wild system of mainly indigenous species harvested for medicines, indigenous fruits and firewood. • Zone 5 – Unmanaged wild systems of indigenous species that act as a refuge for wildlife and is a place we go to observe nature. Slope planning Slope planning involves looking at your site in profile, bearing in mind slope angles and elevation. This leads us to place dams, water storage tanks, roads and tracks, drains and flow diversions in the right place, so we might most effectively use slope on our land to our advantage. For example we place dams and water catchment above the house and garden so we may use gravity to create water flow instead of a mechanical pump. Slope planning means also that we use contours to garden on, to minimise erosion and maximise water retention. Sector planning Plan your site to make maximum use of energy moving through the site or to deflect those energies. Sector planning deals with “wild energies” that move onto the property from the outside. This means that our designs take into account fire danger; strong or damaging winds; screening of unwanted views; winter and summer sun angles; flood-prone areas etc. This leads to placement of homes, windbreaks, firebreaks, swales and water systems. Sectors also modify zonal placement.
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Every element must be multifunctional Every element selected should provide at least 3 functions: for example, windbreaks are pest predator refuges, a source of wild food and contain an herbaceous layer which also provides pest management.
Every function should be served by many elements Pest control, soil fertility, water catchment and irrigation, mulch and food provision, etc … should must be served by more than one element. This means if one element fails in its task to provide a service (pest control chickens get eaten by a dog), than there must be back up by at least three other elements to ensure sustainability (plants, ducks and wild birds control pests). Observe this principle and the basic needs of your cultivated ecology will be met consistently from within the system.
Use biological resources rather than non-renewables Use natural resources to do the work in the Permaculture. Plants and animals are used wherever possible to provide nutrients, shelter, and fuel, insect and weed control, nutrient recycling, habitat enhancement, soil building, fire and erosion control, etc. For example you can use chickens and small animals to work the soil and compost it; plant legumes to enrich the soil; encourage birds and use silky chickens for insect control; plant diverse systems to enhance nutrient reticulation in the soil and to keep disease and pests in balance; use deep rooting plants to loosen the soil instead of ploughing etc.
Create energy cycles Any of the natural forces that enter a site must be put to work. If you have rain, ensure that it is not only caught on the roof for domestic consumption, but is re-used in the house, and enters a home garden as greywater to produce food. Overland flow needs to be captured in swales (contour ditches) so that it can slowly percolate into the soil, and eventually make its way to streams or rivers, rather than just rushing overland to the river. The same attitude is applied to any resources used on site to ensure that nothing is wasted, and no pollution is created.
Create diversity Diversity brings choice and stability. Permaculture is about creating diversity, more so than in nature and it is through diversity that we have stability, choice and sustainability. Diversity not only ensures a wide range of plant species to use, it also means we get away from dependence on one crop for our livelihood (monoculture) into a system whereby a diverse range of plants and animals provide balance and fertility. Diversity means that a family/farm can satisfy many of its nutritional needs with the available fruits, vegetables, proteins, and minerals. Economically this means there is a wider variety of crops and products available at different times of the year, which protects the family/farm from market downturns, and the failure of one crop. But stability only occurs among co-operative species. Do not simply place as many varieties of plant and animal in your system, because they may compete with each other. It is the number of functional connections between these plants and animals that creates stability and fertility.
Patterns When talking about patterns we refer to utilising forms like contour lines, spirals, branching patterns etc that occur in nature. This is not as esoteric as it sounds, but highly practical when correctly used. Nature exists and grows through patterns. Use natural patterns that allow the parts of the design (animals, worms, birds, insects, soils, sun, water, etc.) to flow and work in beneficial relationships. Contours are an obvious form of patterning that can be effectively used on any scale of agriculture. Obviously these patterns become more simplified when used on a larger
scale, but the principle still applies. Use the same patterning principles in your design when shaping beds, watercourses, building structures etc. The use of natural patterns in a garden will enhance the growth and vitality of the system and appear more interesting, original and beautiful.
Increase the use of edge Edge is where two or more environments meet (for example land and water) and where the resources and energy of two or more systems available for us to use. Edge increases the surface interface in your gardens between different systems (pond/wetlands with veggie gardens) and there will be a high-energy movement between them and thus more opportunities in space and time. Also create as much surface interface for plants and animals to use (wavy shaped beds as opposed to straight ones), which will allow a greater amount of species to be placed into a smaller area effectively. Create more edge in your gardens and the energy in the ecology will flow with ease and vitality, ultimately creating a more productive system.
Make use of succession Succession is a concept derived from ecology. It describes the evolution of plant and animal communities over time. Generally, when a site is disturbed, it is colonised by hardy weeds, which are short-lived, but provide a microclimate for other less hardy species to develop in. Left alone, these communities will increase in species diversity and longevity. With the increase in plant diversity, animal and insect communities also increase. Ultimately the system developes into a climax (stable) ecology suited to local conditions. In some areas this may be a forest ecology, in others a fynbos ecology. We utilise this successional phenomenon in Permaculture systems to create permanent agriculture systems. However, we will interfere by enhancing the system through using hardy pioneer shrubs and trees (especially legumes), thereby accelerating the development of a microclimate that will support productive crops.
Intensity A primary consideration in Permaculture is that we need to minimise our impact. This then leads us to design intensive and productive systems that utilise the least space possible. This approach is implemented using 3 dimensional designs. In other words, we use vertical space – walls, trellises, espaliers etc to maximise production. Stacking productive plants into their appropriate niches and using plant guilds are tools that aid intensified design. This also applies to broadscale Permaculture: large animal systems are not necessarily just grazing, but incorporate large leguminous trees for grazing and nitrogen-fixing. Large crop production areas can also look at 3 dimensional design though the use of alley cropping etc.
3. Scope and applications Agriculture As a sustainable agriculture framework, Permaculture provides the designs and tools to create small to large-scale farms that are resilient in the face of disasters like floods, droughts, fires etc. Through careful planning based on local factors such as ecological processes, landforms, wind and water movement, farmers can to some extent buffer their farms in times of crisis. With the emphasis on reintegrating indigenous tree and shrub species into the agricultural framework, the links to conservation are much strengthened and agricultural enterprises become more stable. Windbreaks and pest management zones are implemented using species indigenous to or tolerant of local conditions. The planting of trees as an integral part of agriculture also assists with carbon sequestration, which is vital to our continued survival. In addition we cannot emphasise enough the role that substantial tree planting can play in “creating” rainfall, as well as improved microclimates.
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It is a useful tool especially in arid zones (most of South Africa), where drought mitigation is of utmost importance. Good design and good species selection as well as macro scale water flow management, and the sinking of water into the subsoil through earthworks, are critical to maintaining good soil hydration and replenishing dwindling borehole waters. In areas where soil or water is saline, Permaculture has had some profound effects. The project in the Jordan Valley is a good showcase of the application of Permaculture in difficult and previously considered unproductive or marginal areas. (See www.permaculture.org.au ) Another important factor in agricultural design is diversity: the reintroduction of multipurpose indigenous, and other useful plants or trees, already move the farmer towards more diverse production; coupled with this is the need to diversify agricultural crops so that one can weather a certain amount of crop failure, and still have yields to send to the marketplace. Animals are integrated into food production systems, and are not seen as a separate enterprise from crop cultivation. Chickens and pigs especially have been very successfully used to weed, dig and fertilise crop production areas. Often these animals are rotated around designated, fenced areas, with crops following them as they move on. Cattle and sheep are managed in a low density Agro-forestry context, with fenced trees for browsing, nitrogenfixing for pasture and shade. Bees are also a vital component – pollinating all crops, and generating honey. Our local honey supply is low, and a good niche market exists for this product in South Africa. Construction There has been a marked resurgence in peoples’ interest in sustainable construction methodologies. You may ask what relevance this has to agriculture. Ranging from low cost to luxury housing – it has a profound impact on local resources and finances, as well as health. Most dwellings consume materials that are non-renewable, if not toxic in nature. Poor housing design adds to energy consumption bills, and poor settlement layout has both disastrous social, environmental and consequently economic impacts. Also, most agricultural enterprises have ample natural materials to use in construction. Sustainable construction minimises the impact that housing provision has on the local and far-flung environment. These criteria are: • Building materials are acquired from a radius of no more than 50km, wherever possible – cutting down on petrol consumed, and enhancing the local aesthetics of buildings. • Materials are as unprocessed as possible – alleviating the toxic burden on rivers, soils, atmosphere, humans and wildlife. • Houses are designed for maximum energy efficiency, with green technology and water-saving strategies built in. This includes extensive water storage for domestic consumption from roofs. • The siting of dwellings in a landscape, whether urban or rural is critical. • Passive solar design of houses reduces heating and cooling bills. Good design also impacts on peoples’ mental health. • Construction of homes is labour intensive, and does not necessarily require highly skilled builders, which can add greatly to job creation in South Africa. Energy and technology Green technology is another important component in Permaculture designs. Our individual and collective impacts on the planet are having a profoundly negative effect. Simple technologies like solar heating and electricity can take pressure off our South African energy generation requirements – which is largely produced through the mining and burning of coal. This particular activity has extremely negative effects on people living near these mines and stations as well as contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Water and sewage management can also be made more effective by using appropriate technologies like composting toilets, biogas digestors, greywater purification and re-use. All of these technologies also take the pressure off fresh water supply for wasteful uses. Methane gas digestors are also of interest to farmers who are working with livestock, and who generate excess biomass that cannot otherwise be utilised. Digestors can be built on farms to generate cooking gas or electricity, depending on the scale. The digestors also eliminate the smelly sewage problem!
Social structures Permaculture is in many was concerned with empowering people from all walks of life. Consequently, it has also looked into social structures and alternative economic systems. Co-ops, Green investment and revolving loan schemes are some of the ideas you may encounter. Green city design, cohousing schemes and allotment gardens are some of the social restructuring you would find in urban Permaculture contexts. In South Africa, the goal-setting and decision-making process evolved by Allan Savory in Holistic Management has also proved to be a useful tool. The ethical stance that Permaculture requires leads naturally to a more just social and economic structure. Urban and peri-urban permaculture There is both the need for urban agricultural spaces, and the need to “green” our cities. Urban centres consume, and waste, huge amounts of resources, and also put pressure on rural areas to fulfill many of the urban needs. With the growing pressure on urban centres to provide work and housing, Permaculture can offer a lifeline to many people. Permaculture offers good tools for redefining and redesigning our use of space and resources in cities. The principles outlined above give us a good idea of some approaches. Another critical feature of urban ecological agriculture is the reintroduction of biodiversity into these spaces – making every city garden a conservation zone. Much of what we consider waste can be fruitfully re-used to create more sustainable cities – green technologies are very useful tools here.
4. Training and research People the world over have been trained in Permaculture design whether literate or not. Many courses have also had to be translated into mother tongue. Permaculture Design Courses (PDC) A full Permaculture Design Course should run for at least 72 hours (over, say, 12 days), cover core information, and include intensive design exercises. This is an internationally recognised course. Short courses Many service providers offer short courses covering certain topics within the Permaculture framework, but these do not constitute a PDC. Given the critical poverty in South Africa, many facilitators have been contracted to teach short courses aimed at food security, primary health care, or specialised teachers’ courses. Often, given time and budget constraints, the full PDC material has not always been achievable, but the impact of such short courses has been profound. Trainer competency Main facilitators on PDCs should have completed a PDC themselves, and have 2 years of hands-on experience with design and implementation. In other countries, one can apply to tertiary institutions for recognition of competency. A few people in South Africa have diplomas from Australia and the UK. Permaculture Unit Standards in Agriseta A team of subject experts has been engaged in the lengthy process of writing Permaculture Unit Standards to be included in AgriSETA’s Primary Agriculture Unit Standards. To date, there are Unit Standards ranging from Level 1 to Level 5 (find these on www.agriseta.co.za). The PDC does not have a unit standard – but participants on these courses do not often require accreditation.
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5. Roleplayers Afristar Foundation Tel: 011 706 5614
[email protected] www.afristarfoundation.org.za
facilitates on site permaculture workshops for disadvantaged communities, has a range of permaculture educational books, posters and videos and produces Afristar Foundation has worked the Permaculture Villager newsletter on district-wide planning models quarterly. that bring Permaculture to the fore in broadscale community Jakkalskloof Ecovillage development – the Marginalised John Raimondo – 082 441 7827 Community Action Plan (MCAP).
[email protected] This process has enabled them to work with regional and local Situated in Swellendam on the government as well as with the Ashton Road, there are good Department of Agriculture, Public examples of water management Works and professional business and domestic production on a planners to create a model for larger scale. People with old earth integrated environmental, social houses on farms will be inspired to see the earth house restoration and economic development. here. Avice Hindmarch Tel: 072 174 1152 Kruger & Associates
[email protected] Tel: 028 316 2905
[email protected] A consultancy offering the www.kruger-associates.com provision of Permaculture design on any scale, as well as Biodynamic Provide conference services Farming consultation generally, but with a focus on sustainability. One of our flagship Busy Bee Apiaries conferences is the International Tel/fax: 021 971 1022 Association of Impact Assessors.
[email protected] Another lesser known conference is SBE – Sustainability in the Built Busy Bee Apiaries CC provides Environment which is a lowintensive skills training courses key but dynamic natural building both in the theory and in the conference hosted in different practical aspects of beekeeping, areas of Southern Africa. including all business aspects, legal, technical, and marketing, personnel Jewish National Fund Walter and quality aspects. Consultation Sislulu Environmental Centre and the auditing of beekeeping Tel/fax: 012 801 3197 services and products have also
[email protected] been provided. Their mission is to create a culture of community conservation in Dovehouse Farm Tel: 033 330 3554 / 082 868 4517 Mamelodi and Southern Tshwane.
[email protected] The Centre facilitates permaculture www.dovehouse.co.za and medicinal garden workshops to assist educators to incorporate the Dovehouse Organic Farm is a environment into the curriculum functioning permaculture farm and to build capacity in communities with an Organic Health Shop around food security and primary and plant nursery on site. A wide health care. range of permaculture examples are demonstrated on the farm, Lindros Whole Earth from household food forests to a Consultants co-operative of market gardens, Tel: 082 719 7263 integrated crop and animal rotations
[email protected] www.lindros.co.za and water harvesting techniques. Durban Botanic Gardens Permaculture Training Centre Tel: 031 309 1170 Sihle Lukhozi – 078 645 8756
[email protected] Food And Trees For Africa (FTFA) Tel: 011 784 6399 www.trees.org.za FTFA works in partnership with government, the private and public sectors and civil society. FTFA runs several PDCs annually,
Newlands Mashu Permaculture Learning Centre (NMPLC) Tel: 031 577 2844 newlandspermaculture@absamail. co.za www.newlandsmashu.org.za NMPLC conducts training workshops and provides mentorship to organisations and individuals seeking to develop sustainable and environmentally responsible approaches to farming and organic based agricultural initiatives.
McGregor Alternative Technology Centre (MAT) Tel: 023 625 1533
[email protected] www.mat.org.za
public about Permaculture. It aims to improve the acceptance of Permaculture in the formal and informal sectors, as well as lobby against unsustainable practices. Permacore is also a networking MAT teaches sustainable building, organisation that seeks to foster renewable energy, permaculture co-operation. and promote alternative technologies like compost toilets, Planner Bee Plant Care solar cookers, etc MAT acts as Tel: 011 888 4215 a learning and resource centre Cell: 083 255 5828 for those wishing to explore and Fax: 011 888 4215 incorporate these principles and
[email protected] technologies in their own lives and www.fertilis.co.za in their communities. Consulting on Permaculture, organics, vermiculture and waste Open Synergy Tel: 011 608 1082 / 072 501 0756 management using earthworms.
[email protected] They also have permaculture www.opensynergy.co.za articles in booklet form. We design resilient ecologies and healthy habitats to facilitate the emergence of sustainable settlements, working with NGOs, academic institutions, architectural firms, construction companies, and private clients. Open Synergy has done some ground-breaking work in terms of Urban Permaculture – The Alexandra Renewal Project being in the portfolio. They are also engaged with projects at WITS university. Paul Barker Tel: 072 410 8044 Fax: 086 445 9991
[email protected]
Plantwize Tel: 082 683 6048
[email protected] www.plantwize.co.za Indigenous, organic and Permaculture landscaping; organic garden maintenance; workshops and training. Progreen Tel: 011 784 6399
[email protected]
An environmental communications consultancy, Progreen brought Bill Mollison, founder of Permaculture, to South Africa in 1991 to promote Permaculture in the country. This Sustainable Agricultural Practices, has become an annual event in Community Development and which hundreds of facilitators are Permaculture Design National trained. Consultancy Rainman Landcare Foundation Permaculture Education Africa Tel: 031 783 4412 (PEA)
[email protected] Tel: 028 5511 678 / 072 241 1514 www.rainman.co.za permaculture.education.
[email protected] A registered trust which teaches farmers how to farm using PEA is an association of Permaculture and Organics, and Permaculture facilitators, as well how to set up farmer’s associations as an informal networking body for which can be certified organic, Permaculture. PEA organises PDC enabling farmers to access courses and tailor-made courses the growing organic market, for Permaculture projects as well as domestically and internationally. accredited training consultation services for projects. AgriSETA In addition PEA provides Ecovillage providers. Design consultations, designs and broad scale Permaculture design. Rural Education Development We are able to offer professional Corporation (Rucore) Tel/fax: 021 783 4007 and practical courses on sites
[email protected] that demonstrate this sustainable www.rucore.org.za approach. We will also assist you with getting in touch with service Rucore promotes integral providers in your area. Co- approaches to rural development at operation is a vial aspect of our the household, village and regional approach. level and works on projects in the Northwest Province and KZN. Permacore 021 448 5350 / 072 949 4600 SEED Tel/fax: 021 391 5316 The Permaculture Foundation of Tel: 021 671 6912 the Western Cape is an organisation
[email protected] that promotes and educates the www.seed.org.za
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SEED facilitates innovative and radical transformation of the learning environment together with inspired and practical Outcomes Based Education. A Permaculture learning environment is a rich practical tool for all learning areas in the Revised National Curriculum Statements (RNCS). Through this process teachers benefit from SEED’s learnership programme and acquire hands-on skills of Environmental Education facilitation and applied Permaculture at schools. SEED’s core programme is the Sustainable Schools programme, a three-year programme which supports schools in growing into community resource centres for the horizontal transfer of Environmental Education, and encouraging environmental awareness in the community. SEED’s head offices are at Rocklands Primary School in Mitchell’s Plain and showcases Mediterranean Permaculture in a very harsh climate, to good effect. SEED has developed a number of Learner Support Materials that link Permaculture directly to the national schools Curriculum. We are developing an Applied Permaculture Training for postmatriculants. This course would be suitable for schools facilitators and community development trainers, amongst others. In this year (2009) we hope to develop a full Diploma in Permaculture.
‘90’s. We engage with leaders in business and government to create strategies to turn the tide of environmental collapse and to generate new more sustainable solutions. Our core offering is a framework, an elegant and simple yet science-based understanding, of the principles of sustainability. This allows everyone across a diverse operation to talk about these issues in the same language, and gives a long-term strategic context for the steps that must be taken on the journey towards a sustainable organisation. We offer interventions at all levels of management to get a handle on the core issues driving sustainability and to assess how they can engage further (take the next “Natural Steps”) on that journey. Tlholego Ecovillage
[email protected] www.tlholego.org.za Tlholego Village has been working with Permaculture systems, natural building technologies and Ecovillage design in the context of land redistribution policy since 1990. The Village is currently expending its residential component, sustainably agriculture activities and training capacity. Tim Wigley Cell: 083 287 4308
[email protected]
An experienced Natural Farming and Permaculture facilitator who has been working in the Eastern SEED is also involved in many other Cape for two decades. He is based projects as well as running short at Khula Dhamma Ecovillage near five-day courses for teachers. East London. Siyakhana Food Garden Project UKUVUNA Permaculture c/o Health Promotion Unit Solutions & Development School of Public Health Cell: 083 665 3356 Wits Medical School
[email protected] Tel: 011 717 2241
[email protected] [email protected] www.ukuvuna.co.za http://siyakhana.org The main aim of the project is to establish a site for an urban agriculture initiative that showcases a food garden system for food production, education, research, and empowerment of the community, particularly women, through training, employment and income-generating opportunities. Its primary focus is on the link between urban permaculture, food and health promotion. The Natural Step (TNS) Cape Town – 021 715 0526 TNS Gauteng – 011 648 6287 www.naturalstep.org
Ukuvuna Permaculture is NPO based in Midrand and operation through out the region. The organisation runs projects in Lesotho, Swaziland, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and South Africa. Its main focus is on uplifting communities through training establishing learning centres. The centres train local communities in nutrition, adult education, sustainable food security, primary health care and landscaping.
UKUVUNA (Urban farming project CC) Tel: 083 665 3356
[email protected] TNS is an international advisory www.urbanfarming.co.za organisation and think-tank, originating in Sweden in the early
URBAN FARMER Working in collaboration with Organic Food Gardens Tel/fax: 022 448 1106 Lisa Perold – 082 842 1579
[email protected]
as well as Biodynamic Farming Practice – from both small to large scale. She has “a broad palette of practical experience”.
Zulu Organics Ezio Gori – 083 300 2385 We consult around Food Security Fax: 086 671 8572 in rural communities, and engage
[email protected] in training where invited to do so. We focus mainly on home food Zulu Organics provides a holistic gardens, introducing Permaculture development service for both as a design lens, both in the garden small scale emerging and large and as an instrument in developing scale organic farmers, that the capacity of rural communities includes: organics awareness to address the challenges of food and sensitisation; preparation of security/sovereignty. business development plans to access funding for development; Wendy Crawford provision of accredited training; Tel: 082 826 1333 development of site infrastructure; brightgoldberry @gmail.com establishment of Farmers Support Centres, including farmers coA consultant in Permaculture design, operatives and satellite distribution training and implementation, centres etc.
Demonstration Sites Please contact the following sites if you would like to see Permaculture in action. They range from broadscale to urban sites. • Spier – 072 174 1152 • Berg en Dal – 028 551 1678 • Cedar Guesthouse – 044 923 1751 • Dovehouse – 033 330 3554 • Mashu Newlands Permaculture Centre – 031 577 2844 • Noel Marten – 021 532 2607 • Rainman Landcare Foundation – 031 783 4412 • Synergy Centre Sustainability Project – 072 501 0756 SCHOOLS – see the earlier SEED and FTFA entries.
6. Websites and publications Useful and related publications: • • • • • • • • •
Earth User’s Guide to Permaculture Rosemary Morrow From the Roots Permacore newsletter Introduction to Permaculture Bill Mollisson and Reny Mia Slay Making the most of indigenous trees Fanie and Julye-Ann Venter Natural Pest Management Henry Ellwell (Zimbabwe) Permaculture David Holmgren Permaculture: A Designers’ Manual Bill Mollisson Plant Propagation Mambo Press Production without Destruction Vukasin et al (Natural Farming Network, Zimbabwe) • South African Organic Agriculture Lindros • The Permaculture Booklet Food and Trees for Africa • The Permaculture Home Garden Linda Woodrow • www.ipcon.org, website of the 9th International Permaculture Conference and Convergence (held in Malawi). •The google on “permaculture” will give you many other international contacts e.g. www.regenerativedesign.org, www.ecologicalsolutions. com.au and www.permaculture.org. The Permaculture Magazine, winner of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise 2008 in the Sustainable Development category and ‘unfettered commitment to progressing sustainability internationally’ (UK-based) can be subscribed to online at www.exacteditions.com/exact/magazine/409/460. Readers can also contact Tony Rollinson at
[email protected], who is involved in supporting projects throughout Africa. Our thanks to Alex Kruger of Permaculture Education Africa for coordinating this chapter, and to Paul Cohen for thorough feedback.
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Resources and Good Agricultural Practice
Rainwater harvesting 1. Overview Rain does not always fall where humans want it to fall, but we work with it to our own advantage. On a national level, dams such as the Gariep Dam, Vanderkloof Dam, Midmar Dam, Pongolapoort Dam, Vaal Dam or Theewaterskoof Dam have been constructed to collect and store rain water on a large scale. On a local or farming level, thousands of smaller dams have been built by the owners of the land, using their tractors, dam scrapers, front-end loaders or other equipment available on the farm. The basic idea is to keep the rain water on the land where it falls i.e. harvesting rainwater. At a later date this water will be used for irrigating crops, drinking water for animals and even as drinking water for human consumption. Some rainwater might require treatment before it is considered suitable for drinking. So-called “appropriate technology” methods (e.g. as solar water disinfection) provide low-cost disinfection options for treatment of stored rainwater for drinking. Rain Water Harvesting (RWH) is increasingly being accepted as a practical method of providing both irrigation and potable water in agricultural and development projects throughout the world. RWH has wide application also in urban and peri-urban areas where the quantity, reliability and quality of piped water are sometimes questioned. Source: EHWalter (Hydrex), writing to the project in March 2008; www.sciencedirect. com /science; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rainwater_harvesting
2. A national strategy In rural villages with access to more water, the level of economic activity has been shown to double. This growth is of particular importance because of its direct impact on poverty. Every household with a roof can potentially harvest and store rainwater. In South Africa, where the backyards of rural homesteads add up to a whopping 200 000 hectares (i.e. double the current area under smallholder irrigation), the potential impact on food security is more than significant. Source: Tsepho Khumbane, Trustee of The Mvula Trust (adapted)
In-field rain-water harvesting improves small-scale farming income and profitability. Studies to assess economic viability, social acceptability and environmental sustainability have shown in-field rainwater harvesting (IRWH) to be a sustainable approach towards empowering rural people to fight food insecurity and improve livelihoods. Profitability analyses using enterprise budgets show that farmers who adopt even the simplest form of IRWH compared to conventional crop cultivation can increase their income by about R800/ha in the case of maize production. Participatory research techniques, such as Participatory Rural Appraisal and Participatory Action Research conducted in study villages confirmed that farmers are willing to apply IRWH techniques in their production activities, and that these techniques are not only economically viable but are also environmentally sustainable and provide social benefits. Source: The Water Research Commission Annual Report on www.wrc.org.za
Enough rain falls on the African continent to supply the water needs for 13 billion people, twice the current world population. However, little of the rainfall is collected or stored through sustainable methods, such as small and large-scale rainwater harvesting. An excerpt from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) “Environmental Food Crisis” report, released in May 2009. Find it at www.unep.org
3. Roleplayers Applied UV Tel: 021 448 6721
[email protected] www.applieduv.co.za.
Ozone Innovations Tel: 021 854 6400
[email protected] www.ozoneinnovations.com
Applied UV specialises in ultraviolet water disinfection, a system used to disinfect the drinking water for farms, houses, hospitals, hotels and communities that are without treated water.
Ozone, activated oxygen, is a natural purifier. Its clean, fresh scent is often noticed after a heavy rain. Ozone is a powerful oxidant that can safely be used to purify water. It is an alternative to using chlorine. Ultrviolet (UV) light has the ability to kill micro-organisms in a dedicated environment. When used for water purification, UV and ozone work faster and are more effective at killing a wider variety of potential pathogens than chlorine. Unlike many other sanitising agents, ozone and UV have no negative environmental impact
ARC - Institute for Soil Climate and Water Tel: 051 861 1172 Fax: 051 861 1027
[email protected] Near Bloemfontein in South Africa’s flat, dry province, the ARC has developed In field Rainwater Harvesting systems, making cropping viable in areas where people had abandoned crop production. RWH has been adopted eagerly by local smallscale farmers. Builders Warehouse Tel: 021 937 1014 www.builderswarehouse.co.za Builders Warehouse supplies various water storage devices which can be attached to downpipes. Branch contact details can be found on the website. Hydrex Water Storage Tel: 011 440 4472
[email protected] www.hydrex.co.za
This company specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of chemical-free ozone and ultraviolet light sterilisation equipment. Rainman Landcare Foundation Raymond Auerbach Tel: 031 783 4412
[email protected] Rainwater harvesting training Rand Water Water Quality Specialist Services, Bulk Water Services Tel: 011 682 0278
[email protected] www.randwater.co.za
Your local Water Board should be able to assist you with advice, Tanks and equipment for the publications etc. Rand Water, for storing of rainwater example, has a booklet Going with the Flow, which shows the MVULA Trust reader how to build a water tank Tel: 011 403 3425 for storing storm water / rainwater. Tel: 031 301 3205 Contact Grant Pearson. Fax: 011 403 1260 www.mvula.co.za SPATIUM Louw van Biljon – 082 777 2647 Mvula Trust is the largest Non-
[email protected] Governmental Organisation supporting Water and Sanitation Umhlaba Consulting Group Development in South Africa. (Pty) Ltd They operate from a national Water for Development Unit office in Johannesburg as well as Director – Jonathan Denison from six regional offices in North Tel: 043 7221246 West, Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal
[email protected] (2 offices) Eastern Cape (3 offices) Free state and Mpumalanga. Water Research Commission Tel: 012 330 9058 www.wrc.org.za Rainwater for drinking should be carefully stored and treated prior to consumption. Several technologies exist for home treatment including: ozone sterilisation, UV, distillation. Fairly simple sand filters followed by household chlorine may also be utilised. For further details, contact Dr Jo Burgess at the Water Research Commission, 012 330 9039 (RWH for domestic use), or Dr Andrew Sanewe on 012 330 9047 (for agricultural use).
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4. Websites and publications
Resources and Good Agricultural Practice
Excellent sources include: • Botha, JJ, van Rensburg, LD, Anderson, JJ, Hensley, M, Macheli, MS, van Staden, PP, Kundhlande, G, Groenewald, DC, & Baiphethi, MN, (2003). Water conservation techniques on small plots in semi-arid areas to enhance rainfall use efficiency, food security, and sustainable crop production. Report No. 1176/1/03, Water Research Commission, Pretoria. • Hensley, M, Botha, JJ, Anderson, JJ, Van Staden, PP & Du Toit, A, (2000). Optimising rainfall use efficiency for developing farmers with limited access to irrigation water. Report No. 878/1/00, Water Research Commission, Pretoria. • Kundhlande, G, Groenewald, DC, Baiphethi, MN, Viljoen, MF, Botha, JJ, Van Rensburg, LD, Anderson, JJ (2004). Socio-economic study on water conservation techniques in semi-arid areas. Report No. 1267/1/04, Water Research Commission, Pretoria. • Water resources management in rainwater harvesting: An integrated systems approach includes case studies of villages / farm workers who catch rainwater for a variety of purposes. Contact the Water Research Commission. Various reports on in-field rainwater harvesting and conservation are available from the Water Research Commission. Contact them or visit www.wrc.org.za. Kejafa Knowledge Works stocks the publication Water Harvesting Techniques. Contact them at 014 577 0005 or visit www.kejafa.co.za Some websites • Find the archived article “Harvesting the rain” at www.farmersweekly. co.za • http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rainwater_harvesting • www.harvest2o.com – the “online rainwater harvesting community” • Find the Info Pak Collecting rainwater from your roof under the Publications option at www.daff.gov.za • “Hoops” are raised earth structures (bunds) constructed as semicircles on gently sloping land. They are made so that the tips of the bunds or hoops point up the slope and are on the same level with the contour line. The hoops capture rainwater that runs down the slope. Rainwater Harvesting for Increased Pasture Production, CTA Practical Guide Series No 3, an equivalent of the South African Info Paks, is a brochure dealing with the making of these hoops. Visit www.cta.int • A google will bring you to numerous articles on websites like www. sciencedirect.com (“Treating and storing rainwater for domestic indoor use”), www.gdrc.org (“An introduction to rainwater harvesting”) and www.wikihow.com (“Build a rainwater collection system”)
Rangeland (veld) 1. Overview Current Rangeland / veld information may be found on www.agis.agric.za (select the latest VELD INFO menu option).
• Grass plays an essential role in nature, especially as a source of food, but also to provide shelter and nesting material. There are few food chains that do not include grass in some form or other. The reason for this is that grass occurs very widely over the subcontinent and is virtually always edible. It is usually the animals at the bottom of the food chain that utilise grass. Most predators are therefore also indirectly dependent on grass. • Grazers have migrated in the past, in search of better grazing. They are not only dependent on grass, but grass also depends on them. Grazers remove old plant material, stimulate new growth, and also provide fertiliser in the form of manure. Examples of typical grazers are buffaloes, zebras, blue wildebeest and hartebeest – usually animals found in large herds. Today the habitat of many of these animals has been taken over by cattle and sheep. • Veld (rangeland) provides the main forage resource for livestock and wildlife in South Africa, with supplementary feed, mainly in the form of irrigated or dryland pastures and fodder crops, grown by some commercial livestock farmers to provide forage for the dry winter season. Crop residues are also an important source of winter forage, especially in the communal grazing areas of the country where limited forage is available from the veld during the winter ‘bottleneck’ period. In the drier central and western areas of the country, farmers commonly have small areas of drought tolerant fodder crops to provide a fodder reserve for droughts. Some useful dryland fodder crops are listed in the following table. Species Name
Common Name
Use
Agave americana
American aloe
Drought fodder in arid and semi-arid regions
Anthephora pubescens
Wool grass
Spring and summer grazing
Atriplex mueleri
Australian saltbush
Drought fodder
Atriplex nummalaria
Old Man saltbush
Drought fodder
Atriplex semibaccata
Creeping saltbush
Drought fodder
Cenchrus ciliaris
Blue buffalo grass
Tufted perennial; spring, summer and autumn grazing
Opuntia ficus-indica
Prickly pear
Live fencing and drought fodder
Opuntia spp.
Spineless cactus
Live fencing and drought fodder
Vigna unguiculata
Cowpea
Undersowing maize, millet or sorghum
South Africa is blessed with good, mainly perennial grazing grasses which occur naturally in the region. Many of our grasses, such as weeping love grass (Eragrostis curvula), couch grass (Cynodon dactylon), guinea grass (Panicum maximum), Smuts finger grass (Digitaria eriantha) and Blue buffalo grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) are cultivated worldwide as grazing. Refer to the Forage and Pastures chapter. One of the many possible tanks in which rainwater can be stored. Photograph used courtesy of Hydrex.
Sources [Adapted from]: Guide to Grasses of South Africa, Frits van Oudtshoorn. Cell: 078 228 0008. E-mail:
[email protected]; Rangeland Resources - South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland and Zimbabwe. Online: http://www.ru.ac. za/institutes/rgi/booklet.pdf; FAO’s Country Pasture/Forage Resource Profiles – South Africa. Online (www.fao.org)
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2. National strategy Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Directorate: Land Use and Soil Management Tel: 012 319 7686 Department of Water and Environmental Affairs (DWEA) Tel: 012 310 3911 www.environment.gov.za
South African National Biodiversity Institute Grasslands Programme Tel: 012 843 5000/99
[email protected] www.grasslands.org.za Find details of the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) under heading 3
Government has identified the grasslands biome as a priority for conservation action and will be implementing the national Grasslands Programme to save the deteriorating environment. The mission of the Grasslands Programme is to ensure that management of biodiversity contributes to sustainable development in the grasslands biome. It also ensures that production and development activities are appropriately located and managed so that the delivery of ecosystem services is not impaired. The ARC is also involved in Rangeland Monitoring and runs a DAFF funded National Rangeland Monitoring and Improvement programme which complements the Grasslands programme.
range and pasture management. This broad field involves primarily the use and conservation of natural resources. It encompasses applied fields such as livestock production, wildlife management, nature conservation, water catchment management and range and minedump rehabilitation. The disciplines include amongst others, ecology, botany, zoology, range and pasture science, animal science, soil science and genetics.
Biotelemetry solutions for proactive risk management and precision farming: benefits include precision grazing and veld utilisation monitoring. Janet Edmonds Consulting Tel: 082 828 7953
[email protected]
For the African Journal of Forage Science, events and the newsletter Veld condition assessments, Grassroots refer to their website. carrying capacity, re-vegetation are included in services offered The GSSA organises information days in collaboration with other South African National organisations on a range of subjects, Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) and has recently unveiled a Tel: 012 843 5000 mentorship programme to provide www.sanbi.org support to young scientists. The www.grasslands.org.za GSSA hosts a members’ expertise database for the public who seek Regional contact details are available at www.sanbi.org expert advice in different areas.
3. Roleplayers ARC-Animal Production Council for Scientific and Institute Industrial Research (CSIR) Dr Andrew Magadlela – 012 672 Belinda Reyers 9036 Tel: 021 888 2488 Dr Luthando – 012 672 9273
[email protected] Dr. Mike Peel – 013 753 7147 Mr Alan Short – 012 672 9345 Community Dynamics www.arc.agric.za Tel: 053 927 4367 / 082 459 9451 www.communitydynamics.net The Rangelands and Nutrition Research Unit within the Animal Holistic Management® Grazing Production Institute conducts Planning – emphasis is on soil research on the ecology and surface management and ecosystem management of rangelands. Our health. research teams run several projects in all of South Africa’s biomes and Endangered Wildlife Trust on rangelands under all types of (EWT) land uses (commercial livestock Tel: 011 486 1102 production, communal farming, www.ewt.org.za game ranching). In order to conserve grasslands The ARC is currently managing a the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s National Rangeland Monitoring and two strengths have been: 1) Using Improvement Programme that is charismatic and indicator species staffed with competent research to promote the conservation of the technicians who conduct veld Grassland Biome; and 2) Engaging condition surveys and basic soil with and working with farmers on surveys throughout the country in their farms to conserve grassland order to inform decision making by biodiversity. both land users and policy makers. The ARC also offers a service to The Global Environment Facility – www.thegef.org – funded monitor veld condition on game approximately R66 million to the ranches with recommendations on Grasslands Programme, which the management of these properties intends to secure the biodiversity for the intended objectives without and ecosystem services of the degradation of the resource base. grasslands biome for current and They conduct training on veld future generations. management for farmers and often present information at farmers Grassland Society of Southern days and annual congresses of the Africa (GSSA) Grassland Society of Southern Tel/fax: 049 842 4335 Africa. The ARC has research www.grassland.org.za facilities throughout the country and runs several projects on farm The GSSA is involved and concerned with the science and practice of and in the rural communities.
HOTSURE Tel: 0861 COLLAR Fax: 086 640 5744
[email protected] www.hotsure.co.za
Wildlife Ranching SA – find details in the Wildlife Ranching chapter.
4. Training and research Universities and Agricultural Colleges cover grasses (grassland science) and pastures in their degrees and diplomas. The agricultural colleges, working with the provincial Departments of Agriculture, present short courses too on veld management. Cedara College and Glen College are two examples. See the Agricultural Education and Training chapter.
Bushveld Eco Services Tel: 014 717 3819 / 078 228 0008
[email protected] www.bushveldeco.co.za
The productivity of all the rangelands of South Africa has been deteriorating as a result of inter alia desertification, bush encroachment and the loss of palatable plant species. Should this deterioration be allowed to continue unchecked, sustainable animal and food production would not be possible in the long term. It is essential that ongoing research be undertaken to increase understanding of the driving forces that determine changes in vegetation.
The CSIR and SANBI undertook a Grassland Biodiversity Profile and Spatial Biodiversity Priority Assessment as part of the Grasslands Programme. Contact Anthea Stephens at SANBI – telephone 012 843 5289 or email
[email protected]
A consultancy and training service to the agricultural and environmental sectors is offered. Short courses on topics such as Farm planning, Veld management, Veld condition and grazing capacity assessment, Grass identification and more are For updates on grazing research included under the name “Africa Training”. Courses visit www.grassland.org.za or Land-Use contact the GSSA at 049 842 are presented at predetermined venues or on invitation. 4335.
Grazing for Profit Tel: 058 622 1499 www.rcs-sa.com
Grootfontein Agricultural College Tel: 049 802 6723 Funding is available intermittently
[email protected] for postgraduate student research – contact
[email protected]. Short courses include those on veld management. ARC – see previous heading
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Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) Prof Graham Kerley Tel: 041 504 2111 Stellenbosch University Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology Prof Michael Samways Tel: 021 808 3728
[email protected] Tshwane University of Technology Mike Panagos
[email protected] www.tut.ac.za
University of the Free State Department Animal, Wildlife and Grassland Sciences Prof GN Smit Tel: 051 401 2125 Prof Hennie Snyman Tel: 051 401 2221
[email protected] University of KwaZulu-Natal Prof Kevin Kirkman Tel: 033 260 5505 University of the North West Prof Klaus Kellner Tel: 018 299 2510
Other contacts would be Prof T Hoffman and Prof W Bond (University of Cape Town), Prof Wayne Truter (University of Pretoria), Dr Mary Musafa (UNISA), Dr Joseph Baloyi (University of Venda), Prof Peter Scogings (University of Zululand) and Prof Chris Dannhauser (University of Limpopo).
5. Websites and publications Call 012 672 9253/313 for the following, available from the Range and Forage Utilisation division at the ARC in Irene: • Scale-related vegetation sampling • Strategic Use of Intercropping for Small-Scale Farming Systems • The wheel-point method of survey and measurement of semi-open grasslands and Karoo vegetation in South Africa • Amasu oku Tshalahlangana anga setshenziswa ngabalimi abanendawo encane • Know Your Veld • Principles in managing veld • Cultivated pastures for South Africa, a compilation of 25 brochures on indigenous and exotic pasture species for use under dry land and irrigated conditions • Visit www.grassland.org.za, home of the Grasslands Programme. • www.agis.agric.za – take the Veld Focus menu option. The latest reports on rainfall and current condition of rangeland / veld is dealt with region by region. • Visit www.grassland.org.za – website of the Grassland Society of Southern Africa (GSSA). • Find a number of articles on veld and grasses at www.kleinkaroofarms. co.za – take the “General Info” menu option. • Find the Bush Expert and Grass Expert databases on www.puk. ac.za/EcoRestore. • www.arc.agric.za – homepage of the Agricultural Research Council. Take the “Publications” option, or search under the different institutes. The Plant Protection Research Institute (PPRI) provides excellent weed control information, while the Animal Production Institute (API) provides a range of support in its focus area. Grasses • Sasol First Field Guide to Grasses of Southern Africa G Smith. Struik. Cape Town. ISBN: 1 86872 952 4. • Guide to the Grasses of South Africa Frits van Oudtshoorn. Briza. ISBN: 1875093176. A full-colour guide to the common grasses of southern Africa and includes descriptions and illustrations of the 300 most important grasses in southern Africa. There are more than 800 excellent colour photographs.
• Grasses of Southern Africa GE Gibbs Russell et al. NBI. ISBN: 0 620 14846 2. • Common veld and pasture grasses of Natal NM Tainton. Shuter and Shooter. Pietermaritzburg. SA. • Grasses of the Eastern Free State R Moffett. Uniqwa, Qwa-Qwa Campus University of the North. SA. ISBN 0 958 42091 2. • Common grasses of the Northern Cape BR Roberts, JH Fourie. Northern Cape Livestock Co-operation Limited. Kimberley. South Africa. • Common grasses of the Orange Free State BR Roberts. Provincial Administration of the OFS. • Acock’s notes: key grasses of South Africa PJK Zacharias. Grassland Society of South Africa. ISBN: 0 620 14282 0. • Identification of Veld Grasses of KwaZulu-Natal. KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs, Cedara, Pietermaritzburg. ISBN: 0 621 31817 5 Trees and shrubs • SAPPI tree-spotting series • Field Guide to Trees of Southern Africa. Braam van Wyk & Piet van Wyk. Struik, Cape Town. ISBN: 1 86825 922 6 • Trees of Southern Africa. Meg and Keith Coates-Palgrave. Weeds • Alien Weeds and Invasive Plants. Lesley Henderson, Agricultural Research Council, Pretoria. ISBN 1 86849 192 7 • Invasive Alien Plants in KwaZulu-Natal: Management and Control. Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA)-KZN. • Problem Plants of South Africa. Clive Bromilow. Briza Publications, Cape Town. Veld and pasture management • Introduction to VeldCare. [English and isiZulu]. CD Morris & D Kotze. ARC & ShareNet. Pietermaritzburg. 1 919991 38 7. • Veld and pasture management in South Africa NM Tainton (editor). Shuter and Shooter. Pietermaritzburg. SA. ISBN 0 627 01864 5 • Game ranch management J du P Bohma (editor). JL van Schaik. ISBN 0 627 01864 5. • Karoo veld – ecology and management KJ Esler, SJ Milton & WRJ Dean. Briza. Pretoria. ISBN: 978 1 875093 52 6. • Veld Management in the Eastern Cape JE Dankwerts, WR Teague. Department of Agriculture. ISBN: 0 621 123 889. • Improved grassland management J Frame. Farming Press, Ipswich. ISBN 0 852 36246 3. • The farming handbook B Smith. University of KwaZulu-Natal Press. Pietermaritzburg. ISBN: 978 1 86914 090 8. • Veld and Pasture Management Guidelines for Sustainable Animal Production on the Mpumalanga Highveld. A. Engelbrecht, K. Kirkman and A. Swanepoel. Department of Agriculture, Pretoria. ISBN: 1 86871 155 2 • Veld in KwaZulu-Natal. Agricultural Production Guidelines for KwaZuluNatal. KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs, Cedara, Pietermaritzburg. ISBN: 0 621 27923 4.
6. Broad veld types What is Sweetveld and what is Sourveld? These are broad veld types and refer to the palatability or sweetness of the veld as it is affected by temperature and rainfall. Sweetveld is palatable throughout the year while sourveld is generally unpalatable in winter due to high rainfall in these areas which has leached the soil over many years and leaves the soil with a low pH. This leaves the grasses low in nutrients. Animals should thus be provided with licks in the winter. Why is sweetveld “sweet”? Sweetveld occurs in areas with low rainfall and mild winters. The soil is fertile due to little leaching and therefore the grass grows in fertile soil and
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has a high nutritional value. Due to the sweetness of the grass, sweetveld is easily overgrazed. Dry bushveld and karoo are examples of sweetveld. What is mixed veld? Mixed veld occurs between sweetveld and sourveld. It is an intermediate form between the two and has characteristics of both. In mixed veld, sweetveld grasses usually occur in protected parts with fertile soil e.g. in the lower lying parts and next to rivers. Sourveld grasses, on the other hand, occur in open areas. Why is sweetveld sensitive to overgrazing? In sweetveld areas, available surface water was very scare, especially during winter, with a subsequent sparse distribution of grazers. Sweetveld has not adapted to continuous grazing, but rather short periods of grazing by migrating animals. These areas are also more prone to droughts e.g. karoo. During times of drought, when the veld is already in a condition of stress, the most damage is caused through overgrazing.
7. Livestock Farming Systems There are two contrasting livestock production systems, linked to different forms of land tenure, that utilise rangeland (veld) grazing resources in South Africa, namely commercially-oriented enterprises on freehold (privatelyowned) land and largely subsistence livestock keeping on communal land. Freehold/commercial sector The commercial farming sector in South Africa is well developed, capitalintensive and export oriented. Commercial area livestock production accounts for 75% of national agricultural output and comes from 52% of the farming/grazing land. The commercial areas are divided into fenced ranches and then usually further subdivided into a number of paddocks, through which some form of rotational grazing is normally practised. Compared to the communal areas, stocking rates tend to be more conservative. In recent years, there has been a marked increase in game farming and eco-tourism in the commercial areas, in recognition of the difficulties and consequences of farming with mono-specific (grazer) domestic stock. On commercial ranches, fire is applied to many of the high elevation rangelands to provide grazing during the early growing season. Fire is used primarily by commercial ranchers to remove material of low quality which remains after the winter and to encourage the flush of short green grass during spring. Communal/ subsistence sector The communal areas occupy about 17% of the total farming area of South Africa and hold approximately 52% of the total cattle population, 72% of the goats and 17% of the sheep. They differ markedly from the freehold areas in their production systems, objectives and property rights; only the cropping areas are normally allocated to individual households, while the grazing areas tend to be shared by members of a community. The production systems in the communal areas are based on pastoralism and agro-pastoralism, and the majority of households are subsistence-based and labour intensive, with limited use of technology and external inputs. The outputs and objectives of livestock ownership are much more diverse than in commercial livestock production and include draft power, milk, dung, meat, cash income and capital storage as well as socio-cultural factors. The combination of objectives tends to be met by a policy of herd maximisation rather than turnover; hence even the large herd owners tend to sell only to meet cash needs. Mixed livestock ownership is more common in communal than freehold areas. Cattle are the generally preferred livestock species, and are important for draft power, but economic and ecological conditions often limit the possibilities of cattle ownership. Goats and, to a lesser extent, sheep are widely distributed in the communal areas and are mainly indigenous breeds.
In communal areas, fire is used to stimulate grass production during the early summer, and this maintains a grassland state along the coastal region. However, the exclusion of fire from the savanna regions under communal management has encouraged bush encroachment to the detriment of the grazing potential of these rangelands for cattle and sheep. Source [adapted from]: Rangeland Resources – South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland and Zimbabwe. Online: http://www.ru.ac.za/institutes/rgi/booklet. pdf
8. Grass and veld fires See the chapter on fire.
Burned veld which sprouts out is very palatable and is easily overgrazed. Veld which has been burned should preferably rest until the grass has regrown to a height of at least 150mm. This will give the grass a chance to produce enough leaf material so that the entire plant can photosynthesize. In the case of veld which is grazed by game that cannot be controlled, it is advisable to ensure that the sections which burned are large enough to alleviate grazing pressure. Sheep should be allowed to graze as soon as possible after the fire, as they will lose condition if left to graze tall grass. In most areas, if veld is grazed soon after burning, a full season’s rest should be built into the grazing cycle (for example, once in three years or twice in five years) to allow the grass to recover its vigor. Source: Guide to Grasses of South Africa. Frits van Oudtshoorn; Veld and Pasture Management Guidelines for Sustainable Animal Production on the Mpumalanga Highveld. A Engelbrecht et al.
9. Veld reclamation THE ‘STATE OF THE RANGE’ The National Desertification Audit conducted in the late 1990s, examined the extent and severity of land degradation in South Africa. For information about the results, consult: 1. Rangeland Resources – South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland and Zimbabwe. Online: http://www.ru.ac.za/institutes/rgi/ booklet.pdf 2. Nature divided: Land degradation in South Africa. MT Hoffman & A Ashwell. University of Cape Town Press, Cape Town. ISBN: 1 919713 54 9. The land degradation assessment is being updated ten years later, and this survey in combination with other projects such as the National Rangeland Monitoring and Improvement Programme of the ARC will provide a detailed picture of the trends in lands degradation across the country.
VELD RECLAMATION Veld reclamation is probably the most challenging veld management practice and brings new hope to many land users (and animals). Reclamation is often the only alternative to making land more productive, even if it is not profitable over the short term. The aim of veld reclamation is to obtain a dense plant population, and thereby protect the soil and offer grazing. No veld reclamation project can succeed if it is not accompanied by improved grazing practices or not fully supported by the land owners.
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Bare patches • Rows of stones can be stacked along the contours to obstruct the runoff of water, improving the moisture status of the soil. • Stone walls can be stacked in crescent- shaped rows with the crescent facing the top of the slope. Grasses and trees can be established within these crescents. • Small dams can be made in the bare patches with a hand hoe, with the walls at the bottom of the slope. Here again, grasses can be established on the walls. • Branches or grass hay can be packed over the bare patches which protects the patches against wind and sun. It also protects new seedlings against early grazing and the elements of nature. • Where slopes are involved deep holes can be dug and trees planted in the holes. The holes can be only partially filled with soil so that enough water collects in the holes. Grasses can also be established in the holes, together with the trees. • Depending on the money you have at your disposal, there are fertilisation measures that may be applied.
Dongas With the reclamation of erosion gullies or dongas, an attempt is made to break the speed of runoff water in the gullies and to collect sediment. • The cheapest method is to stack a stone wall in the gully. This wall catches up the sediment but allows the water to pass through slowly. Stones are often placed in wire baskets (gabions) and used for this purpose. • Branches can also be stacked in gullies to capture sediment. • Parallel rows of vetiver grass or common reed can be planted across the gully. These grasses capture sediment and a natural wall is formed over time. • Reeds can also be planted on the upper side of the wall (where sediment accumulates) to stabilise the sediment and to filter the water.
Grasses and veld reclamation Grasses used for reclaiming veld must be adapted to the climate of the immediate surroundings. The trend is to use perennial grasses because they are denser and offer greater coverage. Palatable grasses should be avoided, particularly where grazing animals cannot be removed from the area. The grasses can be sown if seed is available. Some effective indigenous grasses are: Eragrostis curvula, Andropogon gayanus, Cynodon dactylon, Stipagrostis uniplumis, Aristida canescents, Eragrostis lehmanniana, Eragrostis superba and Hyparrhenia hirta. The University of KwaZulu-Natal at Pietermaritzburg is also developing methods to harvest local grass types for replanting. Source: Guide to Grasses of South Afica. Frits van Oudtshoorn; Early survival and growth of vegetatively propogated indigenous grasses in a clear-felled timber plantation in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. JCO du Toit, African Journal of Range and Forage Science, Vol 26(2), pp. 97-102.
10. Small-scale farmer information Veld is defined as uncultivated land on which indigenous or other vegetation occurs which can be grazed by animals. The proper management of veld is vital to its continued productivity and the production of domestic livestock and game. Mismanagement leads to: • Overgrazing – this occurs when the number of animals per unit area of land (the stocking rate) exceeds the number of animals the vegetation of land can support (i.e. carrying capacity). The recommended grazing capacity may be obtained from the Departmental norms or from veld condition assessments. • Erosion – is the excessive soil loss through the action of water or wind.
• Bush encroachment – occurs as a result of overgrazing, badly timed burning, drought and incorrect combination of animals (grazers and browsers). • Desertification – is a process which arises through bad land use. The end result of desertification is the total degradation of land which is extremely difficult to reverse. Grazing capacity The number of animals that can be run on a farm must not exceed the grazing capacity of that farm. If stock numbers exceed the grazing capacity then: • There will be insufficient fodder for livestock resulting in deterioration of the condition. • Overgrazing of palatable species will result in reduced productivity and veld deterioration. Veld resting • All living organisms require rest, yet resting of veld is not practiced by many farmers. • Rested veld contains a high proportion of palatable species and provides excellent winter fodder. • Rested veld promotes vigour and plant regrowth. A land user may apply the following measures to protect their land against degradation: • Reduce animal numbers on veld showing signs of deterioration – or move them. • Make use of a suitable grazing crop established to supplement the natural grazing. • Should any part of the veld show signs of wind erosion, suitable wind breaks should be created either mechanically or biologically. Denuded areas should be covered with either branches, hay, stray crop residues or any other suitable material. Rotational grazing is highly recommended. Fencing assists with the division of camps and is used as a management tool to control veld condition. The property should be divided into veld type units, which are management units based on ecological criteria such as the steepness of slopes, the aspect of the slopes, bush density, distance from water, vleis (wetlands) and other factors. These veld type units should form the basis of management decisions. Fences, if need be, can then be used to separate some of these veld type units to force animals not to concentrate on one are (such as a northfacing slope) while ignoring another area (such as the top of a mountain or a south-facing slope). If fencing is not practical or affordable, in sourveld areas burning different veld type units each year can encourage animals to move from one area to another. Herding of livestock, or rotating water and lick points, are also potential tools for encouraging animals to move. If fencing is too expensive, then consider fencing only small, valuable portions of the property such as vleis (wetlands) or stream banks. Sources: Grassland Society of Southern Africa (GSSA), Frits van Oudtshoorn, Dr A Smith, www.arc.agric.za, the Department of Agriculture and Craig Morris (ARC Range and Forage Unit) Thanks to Craig Morris, Alan Luthando, Alan Short and Mike Peel for feedback on the draft chapter.
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Resources and Good Agricultural Practice
Renewable energy 1. Overview The renewable energy sector is one of the fastest growing sectors in the world. For South Africa, it can mean job creation, sustainable development, and a reduced burden on Eskom. It is also a sane, logical response to global warming. Because they are constantly replenished, renewable energy resources have security of supply. After the initial start up costs, energy is sourced from wind, waves, sun, earth heat (geothermal), biomass and rivers. Renewable energy technologies (RETs) that we use to harness these resources also operate without polluting and are therefore called ‘clean technologies’. A greater diversity of energy resources is in the best interests of national and international security. The demand for renewable energy is growing globally and so it provides both a path to sustainable economic growth and potential exports. Using renewable energy can meet our energy needs today and ensure that there will be clean air and lots of energy for our grandchildren. Source: Earthlife (adapted)
The renewable energy feed-in-tariff (Refit) will encourage private sector investment if renewable energy generators can be guaranteed a fair return on investment. Eskom has been designated the renewable energy purchasing authority, and is to buy all power generated by renewable energy generators, and then transmit the power through its national electricity grid. Find the South Africa Renewable Energy Feed-in Tariff: regulatory Guidelines on www.polity.org.za Before the methods of producing energy change from the old world of coal and oil to the use of sun, wind, water, biogas or biomass, there must be: • a champion, and high-profile role models to lead the way; • co-ordination of the activities of stakeholders in the process; and • an enabling environment so individuals and municipalities can do the right thing. Source: Ruth Rabinowitz writing in Business Day, 30 November 2009
2. A different approach “The world we have created today has problems that cannot be solved by thinking the way we thought when we created them.” Albert Einstein The climate change crisis, the energy crisis, the water crisis, the oil crisis -– these are all simply the symptoms and consequences of behaviours and practices that are motivated and driven by a set of unsustainable values and patterns of thought, including: • Ignorance — A lack of awareness of the inter–connectedness and inter–dependence of Earth’s ecological systems and the effects of human actions on these systems.
• Short-term thinking –- Being primarily motivated by short term profits and current needs. • Self-centricity — Self gratification without an equal concern for the effects of our choices and actions on the wellbeing of other (human and non–human) individuals and communities. • Consumerism –- A ‘Culture’ in which value and status in society is determined and measured by the quantity of material goods owned and consumed. The logical consequence being an insatiable and highly competitive demand for ‘more, bigger better’ consumer goods. (This has resulted in about 20% of the world’s population currently owning and consuming about 80% of the world’s resources.) If these are the ‘unsustainable’ values and behaviours that underpin and drive current ‘inconvenient environmental consequences’, then the corresponding inverse values and behaviours to support a sustainable society and Earth’s eco–logical systems must be: • ‘Holistic’ understanding — Recognising the effects of our actions on the delicate, inter–dependant nature of Earth’s eco–systems and communities and balancing our choices and actions accordingly. • Long-term perspective — Demand for today’s needs and desires being measured and mitigated against the long term effect of meeting these needs and desires. • Care for Community — A response–able and mutually supportive commitment to the wellbeing of all the Earth’s living communities (recognised in African terms as Ubuntu). • Quality of living –- Appreciation of quality over quantity. Seeking to achieve a simple and elegant quality of living rather than madly rushing about to finance an unnecessary quantity of consumption. Aiming to meet our material needs to a level of reasonable comfort but placing a higher value on the more refined human assets of intellect and the human spirit. Source: David Parry-Davies www.thoughtleader.co.za
3. Solar Energy from the sun is pure, unlimited and most of all free. Capturing energy from the sun for some activities on the farm can reduce the farm’s electricity bills and, most importantly, decrease the pressure from the power outages. One of the simplest ways to use solar energy is by designing your farm buildings in such a way that they use natural daylight rather than electric bulbs. This is the most cost-effective approach as the solar energy can be used to warm homes and livestock buildings. Solar water heaters can provide hot water for cleaning of pens and equipment, and dairy farmers can use it to warm and stimulate cows’ udders. Using the sun to dry grains and raisins is one of the oldest applications of solar energy. Solar drying equipment can dry crops faster and more evenly. A typical solar dryer consists of an enclosure or shed, screened drying trays and a solar collector. While the cost of setting up solar panels can be high, the savings on the electricity bill and self-reliance for energy during crucial times will make it cost-effective. Commercial greenhouses often rely on the sun for lighting, but on electricity or oil heaters to maintain constant temperatures. A solar greenhouse uses building materials to collect and store solar energy as heat. Insulation retains the heat for use during the night and on cloudy days. To capture the most sunlight, a solar greenhouse generally faces north, while its southern side is well insulated, with few or no windows. An electric or oil heater may be used as a backup. Getting your farm solar powered can initially seem costly, but the return on your investment is realised through savings on your electricity bill. Most farms get water from a borehole, river or dam. The best way to provide power to pump the water from the supply to your water tanks is with an independent solar pump system. The cost of such a system depends on the depth of the well, the total lift (in metres) to the water tank and the number of litres of water required daily. Source: AgriReview, 2nd quarter 2008, available at www.standardbank.co.za
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• One hour of sunlight packs enough energy to power the world for a day. • An area of 70km x 70 km could provide all of South Africa’s electricity requirements from concentrated solar power (CSP). • Solar power generation is the fastest-growing electricity source, doubling its output every two years. • Solar resources are by far the most abundant and readily accessible in South Africa, as Africa is well endowed with sunshine the whole year round. We have twice as much sunlight than that in Europe where solar power units are compulsory in some countries such as Switzerland. In Europe you find solar power “farms” where farmers make more money from selling surplus solar power to the national grid than from traditional farming. • There are two distinct ways we can utilise solar power, either by using the heat of the sun (solar thermal) or by converting sunlight into electricity with photovoltaic panels. There is also “passive solar” – buildings are constructed in such a way that they absorb the heat of the sun (by facing north) thereby reducing heating costs. • Solar power for farms in remote regions is a viable option because they do not have direct access to grid-fed electricity. It becomes viable to use solar power because there is usually a very high cost to get grid-fed electricity to the farm which is for the farm owners account. And the cost of electricity is then supplied at a much higher route than that for urban areas. Source: Mail & Guardian 27 February 2008; www.solardome.co.za; www.solar-panel. co.za
Roleplayers Agricultural Research Council Institute for Agricultural Engineering Tel: 012 842 4000
[email protected]
Plan my Power Tel: 011 678 9184 www.solar-panel.co.za
Renergy Technology (Rentech) Tel: 011 437 4445 The following publications are www.rentech.com available from them: Secur-a-lite • Manual for the domestic drying Tel: 011 485 1923 of vegetables with a convection Solahart solar drier • The construction of a domestic Tel: 0861 SOLAHART convection solar drier (plans/ www.solahart.co.za sketches) Solardome SA • Low-cost woodgas producer • Water heating by means of solar Tel: 021 886 6321 www.solardome.co.za energy • Solar water heating system Solar Heat Exchangers (plans/sketches) Tel: 011 462 0024 www.solarheat.co.za All Power Tel: 041 451 3936 Solien www.allpower.co.za Tel: 044 877 1733 Watermax solar submersible www.solien.co.za pumps Sonnenkraft Tel: 011 781 6104 Association for Renewable www.sonnenkraft.co.za Energy Cooking Appliances (AFRECA) Sun Electricity www.afreca.org Tel: 012 326 6330 www.sunlec.co.za Davy Pumps Tel: 082 322 7305 Sustainable Energy Society of www.davypumps.co.za Southern Africa (SESSA) Tel: 011 789 1384 Divwatt (Pty) Limited www.sessa.org.za Tel: 011 794 3825 www.divwatt.com Suntank Solar Tel: 012 362 3311 Gunda Imports and www.suntank.com Distribution Tel: 082 920 0656 ZM Pumps www.gunda.co.za Tel: 082 552 3917 / 073 070 8545 www.zmpompe.co.za Nuon RAPS Utility Tel: 035 573 1529
4. Wind energy An example of wind energy with which everyone is familiar is the good old windmill (also in a separate chapter). But let’s move on… A wind turbine converts the energy of the wind into electrical energy or mechanical energy. The most common wind turbines generate power from two or three blades revolving around a horizontal axis and are mounted on towers. An independent power producer, Darling Wind Power, opened its wind farm in May 2008. It has four wind turbines that can supply 5.2 megawatts of electricity. All the electricity produced is to be sold to the city of Cape Town as part of a long-term power purchase agreement. The other roleplayers in this project are DARLIPP, the renewable energy parastatal Central Energy Fund, the Development Bank of SA (DBSA) with a portion of the funding coming from a grant by the Danish International Development Assistance (DANIDA). The green electricity facility also qualifies for a United Nations Global Environment Fund guarantee scheme, managed by the South African Wind Energy Programme (SAWEP) of the Department of Minerals and Energy. South Africa, with its ample coastline, has the potential for major electricity generation from wind. The chief executive officer of DARLIPP, Hermann Oelsner, states that South Africa has the potential to be able to generate electricity from wind in excess of its current total national power consumption, and without the harmful effects of fossil fuel and nuclear powered generation plants. Klipheuwel wind farm, nearby, was the first wind farm in sub-Saharan Africa.
Roleplayers In addition to the roleplayers mentioned above: African Wind Energy Association (AfriWEA) Tel/fax: 022 492 3095
[email protected] www.AfriWEA.org Genesis Eco-Energy Tel: 083 460 3898 www.genesis-eco.co.za
Winglette Tel: 058 623 1836 / 082 773 8496 www.winglette.com ZM Pumps Tel: 082 552 3917 / 073 070 8545 www.zmpompe.co.za
Kestrel Wind Turbines Tel: 041 401 2500 www.kestrelwind.co.za The renewable power arm of Eveready (Pty) Ltd, they manufacture micro wind turbines in South Africa, and have distributors here and around the world. Valuable sources of information include: • www.AfriWEA.org • World Wind Energy Association www.wwindea.org • Find the article “Diewe laat boere kyk na wind” (thieves cause farmers to look into wind) on www.landbou.com. • German Wind Energy Association, the largest national wind energy association – www.wind-energie.de • Find a comprehensive overview of technical aspects of wind power on the Danish Wind Industry Association’s website, www.windpower.org • The Folkecenter for Renewable Energy (Denmark) – www.folkecenter. net • www.cat.org.uk demonstrates practical solutions to environmental problems for the twenty-first century. • Sustainable Energy Africa promotes sustainable energy approaches and practices in the development of South Africa and Africa. See www. sustainable.org.za
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5. Biomass • “Biomass” is a term generally referring to any plant or animal matter. Examples of biomass as a direct fuel source include wood, animal manure, sugar cane residue and agricultural wastes, particularly in rural areas. • Energy can be produced directly as fuel or by converting it to a gas or liquid. Biogas is dealt with under the next heading. For notes on biofuels (ethanol and biodiesel), please consult the separate chapter. • Plant oils are also produced from biomass. These oils can be extracted from sunflowers, soybeans, groundnuts, vegetables and other plants, and turned into fuel. Biogas Power Tel: 0861 BIOGAS / 083 678 5563 www.biogaspower.co.za Gasification: Utilising biomass as a fuel source Gasification is the incomplete pyrolysis of hydrocarbon biomass. Feedstock such as wood, manure, waste paper or coal can be converted to a clean burning Producer gas (Synthesis gas) consisting primarily of Hydrogen (H) and Carbon Monoxide (CO) which can be used to replace diesel or petrol. Application: Process waste has always been a nuisance to management of large commercial agricultural enterprises such as feedlots (Animal Manure) and sawmills (Off Cuts, Sawdust and Woodchips). In the past, direct combustion of the waste, for heating, was advocated and actually integrated with a reasonable amount of success. The environmental and labour impacts, however, were not realised until recently. Gasification is ideal for large scale agricultural enterprises as it converts what is primarily a waste stream into an environmentally friendly, clean burning fuel which can be used to generate electricity and for heating, especially in the colder climates. Biogas plant energy yields can be enhanced by separating the solids and liquids in digester effluent and gasifying the solids. History: Wood gasification was developed during and after World War 2 when oil and fuel were scarce. Many vehicles were adapted to run on Syngas from gasifiers as coal and coke were readily available, and waste wood was used extensively as an inexpensive source of fuel. Until recently, very little technological progress took place in the field of small to medium scale gasoliers as a source for energy. Wood gasoliers are still used on a regular basis today in areas where power is not available and in industries where useful recycling of waste can be integrated, examples of these are sawmills and huge wood factories where waste wood is a problem when it comes to disposal. Source: Biogas Power notes to this project team
6. Biogas Certain by-products of agriculture, (animal waste, crop residues, etc) originally considered waste streams, are increasingly being seen as a valuable by-product and a value adding resource, and rightly so. In today’s fiercely competitive agricultural environment; farmers must look more closely at their “waste streams” and ensure that they are not throwing away potential cost savings or revenue. With grid energy costs set to double in the next two years and increasingly irregular supply utilising biogas could be the difference between the success and failure of an enterprise. Biogas is a gas consisting of approximately 50-70% methane (CH4) and 50-30% carbon dioxide (CO2). Synonyms for biogas include words such as sewage gas, marsh gas, methane. Biogas can be purified (scrubbed) and used for power generation and/or heating and cooling. The feasibility of a biogas project is dependant on a number of “drivers.” Benefits of a biogas plant, which can be sold, include, “Carbon Credits” and Green Energy (Electrical, Heat, Cooling, Mechanical). Other benefits are odour control, waste management, improved fertiliser value, reduced GHG emissions.
A drawback is that grid power is still financially the better deal – unless you register as a CDM to bring in carbon credits. The possibility does exist to bundle a number of operations under one umbrella registration thereby reducing the registration costs and lowering the size barrier. Biogas is well established in China, India and other Asian countries as a rural source of energy. This process requires biomass, for example, farm manure to be fermented. Biogas is an environmentally friendly energy source since it is not derived from crude oil. Source: Biogas Power and AgriReview, 2nd quarter 2008, available at www. standardbank.co.za
ARC-Institute for Agricultural EcoSecurities Engineering Tel: 011 575 6000 Tel: 012 842 4000
[email protected] [email protected] Structure and guide greenhouse gas The following publications are emission reduction projects from available from them: beginning to end, working with both project developers and buyers • Biogas design and operation of emission reduction credits. manual • Biogas from cattle manure Humphries Boerdery • Biogas purification Tel: 014 736 3843 • Biogas equipment Methane is captured from manure • Biogas water pump and other waste at this large pig farm. Biogas Power Tel: 031 781 1981 Weltec Cell: 083 645 4501 Tel: 039 316 6547 www.biogaspower.co.za www.weltec-biopower.de Biodigesters are a sustainable solution to both the energy crisis and pollution, and are potentially a second income stream for farmers. Find the archived article “Who needs nuclear when you have waste” on www.farmersweekly. co.za
7. Water energy • Energy in water, in the form of motive energy or temperature differences, can be harnessed and used. Since water is about a thousand times heavier than air, even a slow-flowing stream of water can yield great amounts of energy. • Hydroelectricity, a renewable energy source obtained from moving water, supplies about 20% of the world’s electricity. With seven major rivers (Nile, Niger, Congo, Senegal, Gariep, Limpopo and Zambezi) Africa, which holds about 10 percent of the world hydro-energy potential and, with very low energy per capita consumption level, has so far exploited a small part of its capability. • Due to the high capital cost and environmental and social impact of large dams, renewable hydro developments today are increasingly focused on smaller-scale projects (less than 10MW). These smaller hydro-plants do not impact on riverine eco-systems, and using local technology and skills to develop small-scale hydro can also create local jobs. Find notes on hydroelectric power, pumped storage, ocean energy and tidal energy on www.en.wikipedia.org. BWG Hydro Power Development Tel: 011 391 3741 www.bwghydro.co.za
ZM Pumps Tel: 082 552 3917 / 073 070 8545 www.zmpompe.co.za
Pico and Micro hydro-electric Plants are available in South Africa.
8. Geothermal energy This is energy contained in the heated rock and fluid that rises from the extremely hot core of the Earth and filters into cracks and pores in the Earth’s crust. It can exist as hot water, steam or hot dry rocks. In order to access it, wells are drilled into the Earth’s surface. South Africa does not
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have many geothermal resources, except in the area around Aliwal North and in the Cape Fold mountains.
9. Roleplayers Find also the roleplayers under headings 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 Renewable Energy Finance and Subsidy Office (REFSO) Tel: 012 317 8711 www.dme.gov.za REFSO’s mandate includes: • the management of renewable energy subsidies; • the provision of advice to developers and other stakeholders on renewable energy finance and subsidies, (including size of awards, eligibility, procedural requirements, etc), as well as opportunities for accessing finance from other sources. There are several international and domestic finance institutions that are willing to offer financial assistance to private sector companies who wish to create essential infrastructure in developing countries. These institutions offer a wide range of products which include export credits, mixed credits and different types of loans. The various institutions have developed different approaches in terms of dealing with potential projects. The South African Constitution (Act No. 108 of 1996) requires that Government establish a national energy policy to ensure that national energy resources are adequately tapped and delivered to cater for the needs of the nation. The Constitution further states that Energy should be made available and affordable to all. Further, the production and distribution of energy should be sustainable and lead to an improvement in the standard of living of citizens. The South African Government recognised that renewable energy sources, other than biomass, were not yet being fully exploited which led to the renewable energy policy which was one of the aims of the White Paper on Energy Policy of the Republic of South Africa (DME, 1998). The South African Cabinet approved the White Paper on Renewable Energy [PDF] in November 2003, and in so doing, laid the foundation for the widespread adoption of renewables as an energy source. The policy calls for a target of a 10 000 GWh contribution to final energy demand by renewable energy sources, to be realized by 2013 in South Africa. Source: www.villageexhibitions.co.za/renewable_energy/news.htm
Others: Agama Energy Tel: 021 701 3364 www.agama.co.za Alt-e Technologies Tel: 086 111 6182
Amatola Green Power Tel: 011 783 1922 lvanwyk@amatolagreenpower. co.za www.amatolagreenpower.co.za
Amatola Green Power (AGP) is “Start farming with your natural an electricity trading company resources and earn additional operating independently from money from selling renewable ESKOM or Municipalities. energy to ESKOM”
The electricity which AGP supplies is generated from natural renewable energy (RE) sources in terms of the Department of Minerals and Energy (DME) guidelines. Cape Advanced Engineering (CAE) Tel: 021 577 3413 www.cae.co.za Combustion Technology Tel: 021 715 3171 www.rielloburners.co.za
Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Tel. 011 269 3000 www.idc.co.za Just Energy South Africa Tel: 021 701 2012 www.just-energy.org National Business Initiative Sustainable Futures Tel: 011 544 6017 www.nbi.org.za
Siyenza Management Cullinan Energy Solutions Tel: 011 463 9285 Tel: 082 679 9307 www.siyenza.za.com www.cullinanenergysolutions.co.za They run the Energy Solutions for Earthlife Africa Africa Conference and Exhibition Tel: 011 339 3662 www.earthlife.org.za Sustainable Energy Africa (SEA) Earth Power Tel: 021 702 3622 Tel: 021 702 1102 www.sustainable.org.za www.earthpower.co.za Sustainable Energy & Climate Energy & Densification Change Project (SECCP), Systems (Pty) Ltd in co-operation with Southern Tel: 011 794 4660 and Northern NGOs, works to www.russiltech.co.za advance policies and measures including energy efficiency in supply www.google.com Google and consumption and renewable announce in November 2007 that energy and clean technologies. it planned to spend hundreds of SECCP news and findings can be millions of dollars to help drive found on www.earthlife.org.za down the cost of electricity made take the “Research” menu option. from renewable energy below the price of coal. The project, dubbed Talbot & Talbot Renewable Energy Cheaper Than Tel: 033 346 1444 Coal, is hiring dozens of engineers www.talbot.co.za and targeting investment financing at advanced solar thermal power, Wesgro wind power, enhanced geothermal Tel: 021 487 8648 systems and other new technologies www.wesgro.co.za (Reuters). Germany is the leader in wind power generation. Canada is the world leader in hydropower, while Brazil is the world’s largest ethanol producer. Forty-eight countries now have renewable-energy incentives on the books. Find the “Global Trends in Sustainable Energy Investment 2009” document at www.unep.org. The United Nations Environment Programme stresses in this report that a ‘green economy’ approach to the challenges facing the world is vital.
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Resources and Good Agricultural Practice
Soils
3. National strategy and relevant directorate at DAFF Directorate: Land Use and Soil Management (LUSM) Tel: 012 319 7685/6
[email protected] www.daff.gov.za Provincial LUSM offices:
1. Overview
Region
Telephone
It is the soil which determines which crop will be planted, and what livestock be supported. Soil is an integral part of the environment. It changes a rain event of 30 minutes into a water supply to plants lasting months and streams flowing for even longer. Soil is responsible for cleaning polluted air and water.
Gauteng
012 319 7596
Limpopo
015 287 9943
Mpumalanga
013 755 1420 / 2614
North West
018 294 3343/4
“To be a successful farmer, one must first know the nature of the soil,” a saying attributed to a philosopher four centuries before Christ and appearing on www.soils.org.za. The cost-benefit of soil surveys varies; SASSO (see heading 2) estimates that its soil surveys contribute more than R400 million per year to the dry land agriculture industry.
Northern Cape
053 807 2600
Free State
051 409 2601
Eastern Cape
043 704 6800
Western Cape
021 984 9278
KwaZulu-Natal
033 345 3557/15
In the creation epic recorded in the book of Genesis, it is from the soil that Adam is created. Religions and philosophies reinforce the link between humanity and the soil: we come from the dust, and will return to dust. National identities and characteristics are ascribed in some writings to the soils of their people, and even though the exploration is more metaphorical it grabs something within us which recognises the profound connection between ourselves and the soil.
2. Associations involved South African Soil Survey Organisation (SASSO) Tel: 051 401 9247 www.sasso.co.za This non-profit organisation exists for the development of soil surveyors and workers in related fields. It is a forum for soil surveyors to exchange ideas and discuss knowledge about soils. SASSO presents four national workshops distributed over the country each year. Workshops address soil suitability related aspects which advisors are confronted with in the industry e.g. Identification of morphological soil properties, classification and mapping of soils and interpretation of the role of soils in different land uses. Soil Science Society of South Africa (SSSSA) Tel: 012 310 2504 www.soils.org.za The Soil Science Society of South Africa is an organisation with the aim of promoting all aspects of soil science. Visit their website for links to national and international soil science role-players. Find details of the Combined Congress at www.combinedcongress.org.za. South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) Tel: 012 841 1075 www.sacnasp.org.za This is an organisation that handles the registration of all practising professionals in the natural sciences (including soil science, agricultural science geohydrology and environmental science) as required by law (Natural Scientific Professions Act, 2003). In this way, the highest standards of agricultural consulting can be maintained, to the benefit of both the professions and the client (as well as the environment of South Africa). Other relevant associations include the South African Society of Crop Production (SASCP), Southern African Society for Horticultural Sciences and South AFrican Institute of Agricultural Engineers. Visit www.sascp.org.za, www.sashs.co.za and www.saili.co.za for more.
4. Training and research Consult the Agricultural Education and Training chapter.
The universities of Fort Hare, Stellenbosch, the Witswatersrand and North West are members of the African Network for Soil Biology and Fertility (AfNet)
Council for Geoscience Tel: 012 841 1911 www.geoscience.org.za
The Provincial Departments of Agriculture, working closely with the Agricultural Colleges, ARC-Institute for Agricultural Engineering also offer courses. The KZN Tel: 012 842 4000 Department of Agriculture, Environment Affaits and Rural Research and development Development does training in Soil of technology related to soil classification, land capability, and in conservation structures, techniques advanced soil fertility. Educational and systems. posters in Land Husbandry and management are also available (see ARC-Institute of Soil, Climate heading 5). and Water (ISCW) Tel: 012 310 2500 Stellenbosch University
[email protected] Soil Science www.arc.agric.za Tel: 021 808 4794 www.sun.ac.za The ARC-ISCW Division: Pedology and Soil Mineralogy undertakes Tshwane University of surveying, classification and Technology mapping of soil features and Tel: 012 382 5340 properties for a variety of purposes,
[email protected] e.g. susceptibility to erosion, www.tut.ac.za pollution and salinity, and suitability for agricultural production, University of Fort Hare rehabilitation and land reallocation. Tel: 040 602 2232 Furthermore, the Division develops www.ufh.ac.za and maintains comprehensive databases on land type information, University of the Free State Department of Soil, Crop and soil profile information and soil Climate Sciences documentation culminating into Tel: 051 401 2212 soil information systems. University of KwaZulu-Natal AgriSETA accredited trainers Department: Soil Science (find the list in the Agricultural Tel: 033 260 5415 / 6075 Education & Training chapter). Department: Plant Pathology Companies involved conduct Tel: 033 260 5526 research.
[email protected]
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Research on the role silicon plays in plant growth and health. Even thoughsilicon is the second most abundant element in the world’s soils, most of Africa’s soils are actually deficient in it. University of the North West Mafikeng Campus Tel: 018 389 2481
University of Pretoria Plant Production and Soil Sciences Tel: 012 420 3227 www.up.ac.za University of the Witswatersrand Tel: 011 717 1065 Water Research Commission Tel: 012 330 0340 www.wrc.org.za
CARE (Conservation of Agricultural Resources Exhibition) at Cedara. This is housed in the old house that was the Principal’s residence at Cedara, and presents the origins of soil, soil types and uses, energy and growth cycles, soil degradation and erosion, rain cycles, soil loss equations, and conservation measures. It is in need of updating and a general overhaul, but is unique and a powerful training tool.
5. Websites and publications SA Journal of Plant & Soil. ISSN number of 0257-1862. Now internationally listed on the “Master Journal List” of the www.isinet.com web site. Congratulations! The Soils of South Africa – a publication co-ordinated by Prof Martin Fey of Stellenbosch University. It covers the properties, classification, genesis and use of various soils e.g. organic, humic, vertic, melanic, silicic, calcic etc. Find more on www.soils.org.za. Kejafa Knowledge Works has a number of books on soil in stock. Visit www. kejafa.co.za or call 014 577 0005. Land type data and acquired knowledge can be used to solve a variety of problems such as land use planning. Find the detailed soil and climate surveys at www.agis.agric.za. This comprehensive Agricultural Geo-referenced Information System (AGIS) allows for a variety of applications, including assessment of agricultural potential and land suitability. Also at the AGIS website are the easy-to-understand Infotoons. Take the “AGIS” and then “Skills Development” menu options. The following subjects are covered: • Mulch: A blanket on the soil; • Compost: Nature’s fertiliser; • How to get your soil tested.
www.fao.org/nr/lada – read about the Land Degradation Assessment in Drylands project (LADA). A deliverable of LADA is the World Overview of Conservation Approached and Technologies (WOCAT) project. Write to Lianda Lotter at
[email protected] or visit www.wocat.net for more information. www.terrafrica.org – regional sustainable land management African network which was formed in 2009. Don’t forget, of course, that Landbouweekblad and Farmer’s Weekly often feature articles to do with the soil.
6. Companies involved • Find this heading in the Fertiliser, Compost and Organic Fertilisers and Earthworms and Vermicompost chapters. • Several companies can assist you to get maximum results from your soil, by identifying respective soil units on your farm and compiling a comprehensive map of the detail. Find the complete list on www. sasso.co.za Agri-Africa Consultants Tel: 021 886 6826
[email protected] www.agri-africa.co.za
• Soil: Kraal manure as fertiliser (a viable alternative for chemical) • Soil: Suurgrond en kalk • Soil: Test your soil (a basic guide to help you distinguish between sandy, loam and clay soil) See the information under heading 10.
Call 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for the following publications available from the ARC’s Institute of Agricultural Engineering: • Barricades and small structures for the prevention of soil erosion (also available in Afrikaans) • Combating erosion with silt fences (also available in Afrikaans) Provincial Departments of Agriculture produce poster training and other material. Contact the Training Resources Development (TRD) at the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs and Rural Development for the following:
Ecosoil Tel: 021 848 9434 / 072 906 1636
[email protected] www.ecosoil.co.za
Soil management is one of their Jako Pieterse consults farmers on areas of expertise creating healthy soils. Subscribe to his newsletter. ARC – Institute of Climate, Soil and Water (ISCW) Envirosoil Consulting Tel: 012 310 2500 Tel: 011 886 5952
[email protected] [email protected] www.arc.agric.za EnviroMon Biogrow Tel: 021 851 5134 Tel: 028 313 2054 Fax: 021 852 0966 www.biogrow.co.za www.enviromon.co.za Council for Geoscience Tel: 012 841 1911 www.geoscience.org.za
The following Info Paks (booklets) are available from the Resource Centre at DAFF – call 012 319 7141. They can also be viewed at www.daff.gov.za (take the “Publications” option): • Soil Erosion • Soil: Acid soil and lime (most crops benefit from increased lime application) • Soil: Application of lime (the amount of lime added to the soil depends on various factors)
• Acid soils and liming English poster series and A4 book let; • Land husbandry I (General), II (Cropping), and III (Grazing) – English and Zulu poster series and booklets; • Good seed, soil and water for success – English poster series and booklets; • Vetiver grass, a hedge against erosion.
Supply, installation, maintenance and calibration of instrumentation for monitoring weather elements and soil moisture conditions.
Environment Impact Assessments, mapping, surveys and more. GWK Ltd Services are offered here and Tel: 053 298 8200 beyond South Africa’s borders.
[email protected] www.gwk.co.za DFM Software Tel/fax: 021 904 1154 Hanna Instruments www.dfmsoftware.co.za Tel: 011 615 6076 www.hannainst.co.za Soil moisture sensors planted permanently in the ground. pH instruments, Fertigation These take hourly moisture systems and more and temperature readings at six depths. Mycoroot (Pty) Ltd Tel: 083 636 0706 Eco-Fert
[email protected] Tel: 021 979 1737 /975 0561 www.mycoroot.com www.eco-fert.co.za For information on mycorrhiza, The main purpose of Eco-Fert compatibility with fungicides, fertilisers is to provide environment mycorrhizal analysis of your field friendly soil and plant fertilisers, and other soil microbial analysis suited to fit in with organic farming, services, contact Mycoroot. bio-friendly farming, chemical farming, or combinations of the above.
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NviroTek Labs Tel: 012 252 7588 www.nviroteklads.co.za
SA Lime & Gypsum Tel: 021 914 5330 www.sakg.co.za
Independent analysis of soil, water, Scientific Roets Tel: 039 727 1515 plants, fertiliser and feed www.scientificroets.com Omnia Senwes Ltd Tel: 011 709 8888 Tel: 018 464 7800 www.omnia.co.za www.senwes.co.za Planner Bee Plant Care Soilmix Africa Tel: 011 888 4215 Tel: 021 882 8270 www.fertilis.co.za www.soilmix.biz The “FERTILIS” product (registration no B3664 Act36/1947) is certified by the Organic Food Federation UK: organic certification no: 00371/01/00. It is used as a fertiliser for ALL soil. Profert Tel: 018 293 3530 Fax: 018 293 3524 www.profert.co.za RT Chemicals Tel: 033 386 9384
[email protected] www.rtchemicals.co.za
Stimuplant Tel. 012 802 0940 / 4009 www.stimuplant.sa.gs Terratek Tel: 018 581 1000 www.suidwes.co.za Yara South Africa (Pty) Ltd Tel: 021 913 3751 / 862 6617 www.yara.com Zinchem Tel: 011 746 5000 www.agriculturefertilizer.co.za www.zinchem.co.za
Included in RT Chemicals offerings are a range of soil conditioners and Fertigants.
7. Soil sampling and analysis Soil sampling is the weakest link in the soil testing process – a few grams of soil represent millions of kilograms in the field. Soil’s composition varies horizontally and vertically: the sample should incorporate these variations. It is therefore important that controllable factors, such as the time of sampling, sampling depth, relation to rows and the sampling path through the land, are identical to the previous years. There are various methods to sample soils. How, where and when the sub-samples should be collected depend on the application of the analytical results. You may be wishing to formulate a fertilisation programme, for example. Here, the method of soil sampling is determined by the crop cultivated. Or you may be investigating plant production problems, or doing a nematode count (here too there are different guidelines depending on where you are doing the sampling e.g. orchards and annual crops require different sampling methods). Or perhaps you are wanting to determine the water-holding properties of your soil. Several roleplayers have compiled guidelines on soil sampling for their clients. These guidelines list sampling methods like: • soil sampling to formulate a fertilisation programme for annual crops; • soil sampling to formulate a fertilisation programme for perennial corps; • site-specific sampling; • soil sampling to diagnose plant production problems; • soil sampling to establish permanent crops; • soil sampling to assess the current fertilisation programme of tree crops; • soil sampling to determine the water-holding properties of soils; • soil sampling for nematode counts. Notes on soil sampling are available on the websites of agricultural companies e.g. www.suidwes.co.za. Members of SASSO (see heading 2), as well as your nearest Agricultural College or Provincial Department of Agriculture will also be able to assist you.
8. Soil erosion and Good Agricultural Practice Read about WOCAT and LADA at www.wocat.net and www.fao.org/nr/lada respectively.
Soil erosion by wind occurs where a dry, loose soil that is reasonably finely divided on a soil surface that is smooth on which little or no vegetative cover is present. • Each year approximately 300 million ton of top soil is washed away. • At present 3 million ha topsoil cannot be used for agriculture as a result of erosion and bush encroachment A land user can combat wind erosion: • by using rotational cropping; • by not leaving land fallow; • by creating alternate strips of natural land with undisturbed cover crops; • by leaving strips of natural vegetation at right angles to the prevailing wind direction; • by creating suitable wind breaks, either mechanically or biologically. Intense rainfall on bare soil causes aggregate dispersion, surface sealing, and high runoff and low infiltration of water. The potential of soil erosion is greatest while the surface is bare after ploughing, during seedbed preparation, and at seedling establishment. A land user may apply the following methods to combat water erosion: • lay out a land in such a way that the spread of run-off is sufficiently restricted; • cultivate land using a crop rotation system; • create alternate strips of land with undisturbed cover crops; • leave crop residue or plant material on cultivated land to protect the land from being eroded; • establish a suitable grazing crop on land permanently withdrawn from cultivation. Source: www.daff.gov.za
9. Commercial farmer points of interest Because soils differ, their suitability to produce crops varies, and this will affect the crop yield. Are you planting the best crop for the soil you have at your disposal? Farmers cannot afford to cultivate any land at a loss. The best soils should be selected for a crop. The low and varying maize price, for example, adds to the pressure and questions whether it is sustainable to grow that crop. Here it would be essential to select only the best maize soils for the cultivation of maize. Different crops would be selected for the balance of the land. Alternative crops would include permanent pastures. There are variations in permanent soil properties. The South African Soil Classification System accommodates this variation in 73 soil forms and several families in each soil form. Variation in soil fertility and agronomic practices contributes to this variation. Soil scientists can help farmers matching soil and land use. In order to make progress in optimizing land use it is essential to do a soil survey. A land-use plan can then be worked out with the soil information. The aim is sustainable land use. Precision agriculture with super monitors is a new tool helping farmers to determine exactly what their land is producing on any spot. Precision farming procedures monitor variations in crop yield well. This technology changed the soil survey and land evaluation industry. The other leg of precision agriculture grid sampling identifies variation in soil chemistry and fertility making variable application of lime and fertilisers possible.
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• Have a soil survey done and get hold of the soil map (soil surveyors can be found on the SASSO website – www.sasso.co.za. Several of them are also listed under heading 6). • On the soil map do land use planning for the farm and keep sustainability in mind. • Apply the plan. Based on information sent in by Dr PAL le Roux (SASSO). Email LeRouxPA@ufs. ac.za
Waste management 1. Overview
10. New farmer information Soil types: If you want to plant vegetables, fruit trees, maize or any other crop, you must first find out whether the soil is clay, sandy or loamy because crops do not always grow well in all kinds of soil. Take a handful of soil. Feel the soil. Is it rough, smooth or sticky? • Wet the soil in your hand and try to make a sausage. Then look at the following table and decide what kind of soil it is. What does the Can it roll into soil feel like? a sausage?
Resources and Good Agricultural Practice
What does the Type of soil sausage look like?
Very rough
No
Very sandy
Rough
Cannot bend
Sandy
Rough
Can bend a little
Sandy loam
A little sandy, quite smooth but not sticky
Can bend halfway round
Loam or silt loam
A little sandy, quite smooth and sticky
Can bend more than halfway round
Clay loam or sandy loam
Smooth and sticky
Can bend into a ring
Clay
A soil that has too much clay or too much sand can be improved by adding lots of compost or manure. • Water does not penetrate easily into clay and plant roots do not grow easily. • Water penetrates quickly into sandy soil, roots grow easily but the soil becomes dry quickly. • Loam soil contains both sand and clay. Roots grow easily. The soil holds water and nutrients. Acid soil and lime: Most agricultural crops give better yields on soils that are not too acid or too sweet (alkaline). Many South African soils – especially those in the eastern parts of the country – are acid. On the whole, acid soils are poor and unproductive. A lime product must therefore first neutralise the acidity. Most crops benefit from lime application to increase the pH. The amount of lime applied depends on the pH, texture and base saturation of the soil. The more acid the soil, the more lime it requires. Clayey soil and soil with a high organic matter content must also be limed. Source: Info Pak from www.daff.gov.za and KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Development.
Our thanks to Dr PAL le Roux (SASSO and the University of the Free State) for feedback on the draft chapter
Take a look at the Agri-environment Scheme Management Plan at www. ruralni.gov.uk, website of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (Northern Ireland) Waste is any material lacking direct value to the producer, and so must be disposed of. All farming operations create waste products that need to be managed. Waste on the farm includes agro-chemicals (pesticides etc), animal carcasses, grey water (e.g. from cleaning the dairy equipment), black water (sewerage), manure and landfill. Waste Management is not just about getting rid of waste but also about reducing the amount of waste we create in the first place. This approach to waste management is familiar to farmers, but there is also an increasing legal requirement to manage waste responsibly. Zero waste agriculture is a type of sustainable agriculture that optimises the use of plants, animals, bacteria, fungi and algae to produce biodiversefood, energy and nutrients in a synergistic integrated cycle of profitmaking processes, where the waste of each process becomes the feedstock for another process. It presents a balance of economical, social and ecological benefits as it: • optimises food production in an ecological responsible manner; • reduces water consumption via recycling and reduced evaporation; • produces energy through the harvesting of biomethane (biogas) and the extraction of biodiesel from micro-algae, all of which occur as by-products of food production; • reduces greenhouse gas emissions from both traditional agriculture practices and fossil fuel usage, thus providing climate change relief; and • reduces the use of pesticides through biodiverse farming. Source: Janet Edmonds. Contact her at 082 828 7953.
2. Farm integrated waste management The waste management hierarchy moves from the most preferred to least preferred method: 1. Waste avoidance – avoid creating waste in the first place, or excessive waste. 2. Waste re-use – where possible reuse waste material. 3. Waste recycling – glass, cans, paper, cardboard, plastic and a growing number of items are collected after use, and returned to recycling companies who reprocess them into articles which are resold to consumers. 4. Energy recovery from waste – an important step which can be explored by farmers. 5. Treatment – waste (especially hazardous waste) can be treated to reduce toxicity, which in turn, reduces the disposal cost. Composting is also a form of treatment. Divert valuable organic materials from the waste stream, before collection, to compost heaps and vermiculture farms. Compost from earthworms can be used to enrich soils. 6. Earthworms can be used in a variety of waste management fields. They process any form of organic waste – from food waste (homes and restaurants) to garden wastes, to animal manures and wastes, to abattoir wastes. Refer to the Earthworms and Vermicompost chapter. Waste that is not reused, composted, recycled or treated is placed into engineered cells in the ground, compacted and then covered with a layer of soil. This is an area of contention since methane escapes despite the layer of sand and the leachate needs to be ameliorated.
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Many farmers are controlling and running their own mini-municipalities by separating plastic, paper, cans and glass, utilizing a small mobile machines to bale refuse into manageable bales (refer to Farmers Weekly, page 36 dated 21 August 2009). There are plenty of buyers for industrial refuse – refer to www.mbendi.com/indy/wste/af/p0005.htm# and you will find a list of some 350 companies and organisations in the business of waste. Other stories of farmers turning waste into cash or money-savings include “Making money from muck” and “Fertiliser pellets from waste”. Find them at www.farmersweekly.co.za
3. National strategy and relevant government departments Department of Water and Environmental Affairs (DWEA) www.dwa.gov.za and www.environment.gov.za South Africa is moving towards Global Best Practice in Waste Management The long awaited Waste Act 2008 (Act No. 59 of 2008) has finally been signed into Law and came into effect from July 2009. This is a great milestone for the waste management sector, which has long been governed under various pieces of legislation. The Waste Act seeks to encourage the prevention and minimisation of waste generation, whilst promoting reuse and recycling of the waste and to only consider disposal of waste to landfill as a last resort (South Africa is running out of landfill space and waste management is placing a drain on the finances of local government). DWEA published a waste management activity list of activities which requires licences, which has come into effect from 3 July 2009. Farmers should note that some farm waste disposal facilities will possibly require waste licensing provisions. The Department is also working on a Waste Management Strategy, the master plan that will guide how the Act is implemented with relevant time frames and benchmarks which should be in place by June 2010. DWEA plan to hold open days that will allow involved and interested parties the chance to gather and discuss waste management issues in general as well as making use of a media campaign to educate and inform the South African public. For more information on the Waste Act, please contact: • Mr Obed Baloyi, Director of Waste Policy and Information Management: 012 310 3833 or
[email protected] • Ms Khashiwe Masinga: 012 310 3377 or
[email protected]. za A scanned copy of the Act can be accessed on A copy of the Act can be accessed at www.sawic.org.za All waste generators in South Africa are governed by National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act No. 59 OF 2008). For a list of list of waste management activities that have, or are likely to have a detrimental effect on the environment, refer to www.polity.org.za. Farmers who use or store wastewater will have to register with DWEA. All farmers engaging in waste-water discharge by irrigating with treated effluent, and those who use sewerage slush for fertilisation, will have to register as well as for other activities which include evaporation ponds for waste-water, storage of waste on land in landfills or waste dumps and the use of manure storage facilities. This will identify “hotspots” of water quality deterioration in water resources. The DWAF DW 808 replaces the DW 768 registration form which can be completed electronically on the WARMS system – refer to www.dwa.gov.za.
4. Roleplayers Find other companies and associations through websites listed under heading 6. The Institute of Waste Management runs a directory too of roleplayers in this area. Find their details under this heading. ABC Hansen Tel: 012 804 2033 www.abchansenafrica.co.za
Carin Bosman Sustainable Solutions Tel: 087 940 2771
[email protected] Included in ABC Hansen’s products www.cbosss.com is equipment for waste water treatment Bosman focuses on sustainable solutions for water-related Agricultural and Chemical problems, She is recognised as an Dealers of South Africa excellent speaker and is the author (ACDASA) of a number of papers on Water Tel: 011 805 2000 Pollution and Waste Management. The representative body which CSIR Bio/Chemtek promotes the responsible Tel: 011 605 2615 marketing of crop protection www.csir.co.za products to agricultural producers. An important initiative of the unit Agricultural Research Council is to identify waste streams from – PPRI which high-value products can be Pesticide Science Division extracted or derived, to the benefit Tel: 012 808 8000 of processors, the SA environment and the economy. The Pesticide Analysis Laboratory is involved in developing new Collect-a-Can (Pty) Ltd analytical methods for quantitative Tel: 011 466 2939 analysis and confirmation of www.collectacan.co.za pesticide residues including insecticides, herbicides and Dittke, Susanne fungicides in air, soil, water, plant Tel: 021 706 9829 material, animal material, foods and feeds as well as formulations Integrated Resource and Waste and technical materials. Management Specialist Biobox Systems Tel: 012 803 7601 www.biobox.co.za
DSW Waste Minimisation and Recycling Tel: 031 303 1665 Fax: 031 303 3969
Wastewater management company providing process design and supply It is essential for any organisation of equipment for the management getting involved in recycling and of agricultural liquid wastes. waste minimisation to first establish a data base or understanding of Biogas Power what waste is produced and how Tel: 031 781 1981 / 083 642 8229 it can be prevented or minimised. www.biogaspower.co.za For details, contact DSW. “Zero waste farming is a profitable EcoChem reality”
[email protected] www.ecochem.com Biogas Power is a renewableenergy consultancy which designs EcoChem is a leading producer renewable energy systems of Natural Products and solutions providing dairy and pig farmers for use in environmental cleanup, with an economical biogas digester waste management, oil spill system using slurry on their farms cleanup, soil reclamation, waste to generate electricity, save money water treatment, algae control, and reduce their carbon footprint. manure management, composting, lawn care and other life science Biolytix sectors. Tel: 044 532 7544 / 082 333 5720 www.biolytix.co.za
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Environmental Management Systems Nina Landman – 083 407 7060
[email protected] Fairest Cape Association Tel: 021 462 2040 www.fairestcape.org.za Franberfran Tel: 033 3461444 www.franberfran.com
Nampak Paper Recycling Tel: 011 719 6451 Branches nationwide, collect from offices, schools, charities and supermarkets. National Cleaner Production Centre Tel: 012 841 3634 www.ncpc.co.za
Essentially, Cleaner Production Franberfran is a waste water encourages: treatment company specialising in • prevention of waste and the bioremediation of contaminated pollution at the source; waste water. • minimising the use of hazardous raw materials; The Glass Recycling Company • improving water and energy Tel: 011 803 0767 efficiency; www.theglassrecyclingcompany. • reducing risks to human co.za health; • saving money; Glass that is not recycled is landfilled, where it remains forever. • improving efficient management practices; and This adds to the huge pollution issues facing our world. Recycling • promoting sustainable used glass saves energy. The energy development. saved by recycling just one glass bottle is enough to power a 100W National Recycling Forum glass bulb for almost an hour. Read Tel: 011 675 3462 more on the website … www.recycling.co.za The Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa (IWMSA) Tel: 011 675 3462 www.iwmsa.co.za IWMSA is a professional, multi disciplinary organisation with voluntary membership established to promote the science and practice of waste management. It is a non-profit organisation.
National Water Forum (NWF) Tel: 012 804 8031 – TAU SA Tel: 012 841 3957 / 477 – CSIR The newly formed NWF (2009) has invited food retailers, agro-chemical companies and mining companies to help battle water pollution in South Africa.. It will look at ways to save water, address water pollution by farmers and secure quality water for agriculture.
Institute of Zero Waste in Africa Oasis Recycling (IZWA) Tel: 031 202 4576 / 083 471 7276 Tel: 021 671 2698 www.oasis.org.za KwaZulu-Natal Landfill Interest Packaging Council of South Group Africa Tel: 031 563 9630 Tel: 011 463 9909 Fax: 031 563 9456 MBB Consulting Engineers Tel: 021 887 1026
[email protected] www.mbb.co.za Mondi Paperwaste Tel: 080 002 2112 (tollfree) www.paperpickup.co.za
Pikitup Tel: 011 712 5200 www.pikitup.co.za Planner Bee Plant Care Tel: 011 888 4215 / 083 255 5828 www.fertilis.co.za
Earthworms can be used in a variety Support fundraising by collecting of waste management fields. They process any form of organic waste waste paper in bulk - food waste, aniimal manures and wastes, abattoir wastes. Mvula Trust Tel: 011 403 3425 Plastics Federation of South www.mvula.co.za Africa The largest water and sanitation Tel: 011 314 4021 NGO in the South Africa, operating from a national office For plastics recycling information in Johannesburg as well as from refer to www.plasticsinfo.co.za seven regional offices in North West, Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal PROCON Environmental (2 offices) and Eastern Cape (3 Technologies Tel: 0860 66 66 22/33 offices). www.pro-enviro.co.za
Recycling Oil Saves the Environment (ROSE) Tel: 021 448 7492
[email protected] www.rosefoundation.org.za One area of pollution in agriculture (and elsewhere) is used lubricant oil. On average, a tractor can hold anywhere between 40 and 100 litres of oil, and the average medium commercial farm may have anywhere between three and ten tractors. Considering that one litre of used oil has the capacity to contaminate one million litres of water – this is a potentially devastating amount of used oil that, if not collected and recycled responsibly, could make its way into our environment.
Stellenbosch University Department of Food Science Tel: 021 808 3578
[email protected] Water Institute of South Africa Tel: 011 805 3537
[email protected]
The Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) was formed in 1987 when the Southern African branch of the Institute of Water Pollution Control (formerly the institute of Sewage Purification), which had served the water industry in Southern Africa for a period of 50 years, was disbanded. The Institute keeps its members abreast of the latest developments in water technology and research through its national and international liaison, ROSE is appealing to farmers to links and affiliations. gather and store their used oil for responsible collection by a Water Research Commission registered NORA-SA member who Tel: 012 330 0340 has the correct skills and equipment www.wrc.org.za to operate in an environmentally compliant and safe manner. Wildlife and Environment Society of Southern Africa NORA-SA is well-regulated and Tel: 011 462 5663 scrupulously audits the activities of its collectors. WESSA runs a Recycling Info Line. Sannitree International Tel: 021 701 1266 www.sannitree.co.za
Wolf Bernhardt Consulting Tel: 031 266 3258 www.wbconsulting.co.za
They formulate 100% environmentally friendly products for treating all organic wastes. Aquaculture, pigsty, septic tanks, pit toilets, kitchen and drain cleaning products.
Consulting service deals with issues such as composting of agricultural waste products, particularly in the sugarcane industry.
Sappi Waste Paper Tel: 021 531 3077
Xtreme Projects Tel: 041 582 2211 / 082 828 6762 www.xtremeprojects.co.za
Deep cleaning, fire and water Runs a nationwide “War on Waste” restoration, bio-remediation of programme for offices, schools and contaminated soil, acid spills, oil community projects. spills etc SA Waste Holdings (Pty) Ltd ZERI – Southern Africa Tel: 011 787 9617 (Zero Emissions Research & www.sawaste.co.za Initiatives) Tel: 021 762 1228 Scanwood Solutions (Pty) Ltd www.zerisa.org Tel: 012 803 0065/0861 472 461 www.scanwood.co.za Integrated bio-regional development: to assist provinces Soil & More Reliance to develop their integrated Tel: 021 872 5962 development strategy. Training, www.reliance.co.za workshops etc are offered to make folks think about farming as part SPATIUM of a natural –eco-systems based Louw van Biljon – 082 777 2647 operations.
[email protected]
5. Websites and publications Call 012 842 4000 or email
[email protected] for the following publication, available from the ARC Institute for Agricultural Engineering: Manure Handling in Intensive Animal Production Units in South Africa by H T Breedt (Pr Eng), Edited and revised by F Cilliers (Pr Eng) 2009. Managing Our Natural Resources William G. Camp; Betty Heath-Camp, ISBN: 9781428318687, April 2008. The updated fifth edition of this introductory book provides an overview of the broad field of natural resources
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management ranging from forestry to air quality to wildlife management to solid waste management. New case studies explore current real-life issues encountered in natural resource management. Water & Sanitation Africa – complete water resource and wastewater management. Bi-monthly magazine from 3S Media. Call 011 531 3300 or visit www.3smedia.co.za • Visit the websites of companies and associations mentioned under heading 4 e.g. www.iwmsa.co.za and www.recycling.co.za, some of which have links nationally and internationally. • www.businessday.co.za/Articles/Content.aspx?id=88380. South Africa is ranked the 14th worst polluter in the world (Novemver 2009). • Find notes on the South African National Waste Management Strategy Implementation Project on the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) website www.environment.gov.za/nwmsi/. • www.wastewatch.org • www.ukzn.ac.za/department/default.asp?dept=prgund - The Pollution Research Group (PRG) is a group in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban. • www.jclenterprises.co.za – JCL Enterprises for plastic sales of quality recycled plastic materials as well as the recycling of plastic. • www.rosefoundation.org.za – The Rose Foundation specialises in the collection and recycling of used motor (engine) oil. • www.fairestcape.co.za – The Fairest Cape Association aims to promote a cleaner healthier environment by enabling people to take responsibility for waste. • A number of waste management papers can be found on www. goatconnection.com e.g. Consider manure management and the potential for fly, odour, and water-pollution problems. • The “Document library” at www.dwa.gov.za includes information on all policies and legislation related to sanitation and waste services. • For a list of all registered agricultural Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) projects across the world, go to http://cdm.unfccc.int/Projects/ registered.html, to click on “Project search” and to choose the “agricultural” category.
6. Farmer points of interest Chemicals The poor management of pesticide application leads to severe working environment problems. The regulation on pesticides is in general good, but suffers from an administrative division between several governing departments and legal acts. The enforcement is largely based on selfregulation: how many farmers comply with the requirements? Chemical spraying requires the chemicals to be loaded into the spraying machinery. Whether spraying by air or on land the loading of chemicals into the machinery can lead to chemical spills. These are typically not well controlled and the spills result in a build-up of toxic chemicals over time. Prevention is better than control, and as far as possible, spills should be prevented. However, if spills do occur these need to be well controlled. The collected spilled chemical could then still be used if kept uncontaminated in the contained area. Alternatively, the chemical can be properly treated and disposed. Irrigation run-off can carry crop protection chemicals to surface/ground water, even if it takes many years for this to happen. In Denmark for example, fifty years after the use of pesticides began traces of them appeared in groundwater. Other chemicals used on farms that have environmental effects include use of paints, turpentine, creosote, etc. which are often used in significant amounts for maintenance on farm property. The waste materials and containers are often not disposed in the correct manner leading to health and environmental effects of solvents, heavy metals and other problematic chemicals. Use of household chemicals for cleaning and pest control have both use and disposal concerns. Farms typically have septic sewer systems and French drains. Therefore chemicals used in domestic water systems should be biodegradable chemicals. If not, the chemicals accumulate in the ground. Use of pest control chemicals in the household is typically far greater than necessary. Container management The management of waste chemical packaging is an important environmental, health and safety issue. Of particular concern are the
containers from pesticide/herbicide chemicals. Once empty they need to be carefully managed. Prior to disposal, they must be thoroughly cleaned out. The rinsewater then requires treatment. Holes are then punched in the containers and they are flattened and disposed of. They are often not disposed of in correctly controlled waste sites. If not holed and flattened, the empty containers are in demand and may be stolen (e.g. for use as water containers in rural areas). There is a high probability of a health hazard for end users in this case. Typically farmers are known to burn these empty plastic chemical containers as well as empty plastic fertiliser bags in open fire on farms. This low temperature burning results in emissions of dioxins which are hazardous to health and the environment. Air emissions (dioxins) from burning plastics (at temperatures