Claim OwnershipFarmer's Inside Track
Subscribed: 39Played: 1,209
Subscribe
© Copyright 2025 Food For Mzansi
Description
The Farmer's Inside Track podcast is proudly presented by www.FoodForMzansi.co.za. It is aimed at South Africa’s up-and-coming farmers and new entrants into farming and agri-businesses who need information and inspiration to help them start up and get up to sprinting speed as commercial producers and/or agri-processors.
• Join the farmers' members club | www.farmersinsidetrack.co.za
• Facebook | www.facebook.com/foodformzansi.co.za
• Twitter & Instagram | @foodformzansi.co.za
• Food For Mzansi's WhatsApp line | +27 81 889 9032
• Join the farmers' members club | www.farmersinsidetrack.co.za
• Facebook | www.facebook.com/foodformzansi.co.za
• Twitter & Instagram | @foodformzansi.co.za
• Food For Mzansi's WhatsApp line | +27 81 889 9032
717 Episodes
Reverse
This is part 1 of a special series with Nedbank, unpacking the bank’s R7,1 million investment to support South Africa’s next generation of farmers. In this episode, Dr Nirmala Reddy explains how two major programmes are helping young and established farmers build sustainable, future-ready agricultural businesses.We explore Nedbank’s African Greeneurs programme, supporting young farmers with land, training, and market access, and the Subtrop Farmers initiative, helping established farmers scale and enter global markets.Dr Reddy highlights why true transformation requires more than funding: it demands resilience, mentorship, market access and a strong ecosystem of partners. Tune in to hear how Nedbank is helping farmers move from job seekers to job creators and reshaping South Africa’s agricultural future.
In this episode of Farmer's Inside Track, we dive into Pannar Seed’s Panagri™ research programme. De Bruyn Myburgh, agronomy manager at Pannar Seed and a key driver of the programme, shares how they use precision agriculture and multi-regional trials to help farmers optimise yields and maximise profits. These trials, supported by the Pannar Sprout mobile app, ensure farmers get accurate, profitable recommendations unique to their farm.Learn how Panagri™ can boost your farm's performance with science-backed decisions.
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Andries Masoga of Mazeli Farming and Projects, a family-run agribusiness in Limpopo that grew from a small backyard garden into a thriving 140-hectare enterprise. Andries shares how his wife, Tsakani Masoga’s passion for home gardening sparked a journey that now spans tomatoes, potatoes, butternut, and peppadew under formal offtake agreements with major companies, such as PepsiCo and Peppadew International. From their first 10 hectares granted by the local traditional council to employing over 160 local workers, the Masoga family’s story is one of impact. Tune in to hear how they have built a legacy grounded in family succession and rural transformation.
In this episode, we focus on Voermol SS200, a specially formulated concentrate designed to support small stock performance.Joining us is Dr. Josef van Wyngaard, Technical Manager at Voermol Feeds, who explains what SS200 is for, which animals benefit most, and the early signs farmers should watch for when introducing it into their feeding programme. We’ll explore how SS200 can support fertility and body condition in rams and ewes, and more. By the end of this episode, you will have a clear understanding of how SS200 can help their small stock stay healthy, fertile, and productive, and how to integrate it effectively into their feeding programme.
Join agricultural economist Joseph Kau from the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) as he explores how indigenous crops can thrive profitably through agroecology. Kau explains how agroecology balances ecological sustainability, social justice, and economic viability. He shares insights on how crops like rooibos tea and Karoo lamb demonstrate the power of respecting local knowledge, securing premium prices through geographic indicators, and building niche markets. Discover how agroecology not only enhances soil health and biodiversity but also empowers local farmers, preserves indigenous knowledge, and opens doors to long-term profitability.
In this episode, we spotlight Netafim Southern & East Africa and its mission to drive water-smart farming across the continent. Managing director Michael Esmeraldo unpacks how precision irrigation is transforming African agriculture, from boosting yields and conserving water to helping farmers meet future sustainability standards. He shares insights on Netafim’s efforts to make drip irrigation technology accessible to all farmers, and the company’s vision for a future where every drop counts. Tune in to explore how Netafim is shaping a more efficient, resilient, and profitable farming landscape for Africa.
After 24 years of teaching agricultural sciences, Phaladi Motsole swapped the classroom for the fields – building a thriving maize enterprise in the Free State. In this episode, he shares how his academic background influenced his farming journey, the challenges of securing funding and scaling up, and the importance of discipline, commitment, and passion in the agricultural sector.
In this episode, we focus on Voermol Premix 450, a specially formulated feed supplement designed to enhance cattle growth, condition, and reproductive performance. Dr. Josef van Wyngaard, Technical Manager at Voermol Feeds, explores what sets Premix 450 apart from other protein licks and fattening mixes.Whether you’re a seasoned cattle farmer or just starting out, this episode offers actionable tips to improve herd performance and ensure your animals reach their full potential.
In this episode of Farmer's Inside Track, we dive into the essentials of establishing productive pastures for livestock with agricultural researcher Patrick Rakau from the Agricultural Research Council (ARC). From understanding soil types and rainfall patterns in South Africa to choosing the right cultivars and preparing land effectively, Rakau shares practical, science-based guidance for every livestock farmer. He unpacks the importance of rotational grazing, carrying capacity, and avoiding common mistakes that often lead to pasture failure. Learn how well-managed pastures can reduce input costs, improve animal performance, and boost profitability. Whether you’re a communal or commercial farmer, this episode offers valuable insight into sustainable pasture management and long-term livestock success.
In this episode, we head to the Free State to meet Johannes Willem (JW) Dercksen, who has been farming alongside his father in Hertzogville for the past four years. After gaining international experience working in the United States, JW returned home with a clear vision: to achieve maximum yields on minimum hectares while staying true to his philosophy of “back to basics.”JW shares insights into their current farming system, producing maize, soybeans, and sunflowers, and explains why building and repairing their own implements on-farm saves both time and money. He talks candidly about the mistakes that shaped his journey, the lessons learned, and why he believes keeping up with modern practices is just as important as sticking to what works.
Every cattle farmer wants the same thing - faster-growing calves, high-performing cows, and resilient herds that thrive through every season.In this episode, we’re diving into Voermol SB100 — a feed supplement that’s transforming herds across South Africa. Farmers like Maungo Mokgoje in the Northern Cape swear by it for boosting weight gain and herd resilience, even in the toughest, driest conditions.To unpack how SB100 works and what results you can expect, we chat with Dr. Josef van Wyngaard, Voermol Feeds’ technical manager. He shares expert insights, answers your questions, and highlights real success stories straight from the field.
The success of a maize crop begins long before green shoots break through the soil – it starts with germination. In this episode, Kerry Rowlands, seasoned field agronomist at Pannar Seed, unpacks why planting depth, soil moisture, and nutrient support are the “terms and conditions” for a strong start.From the science behind seed activation to the risks of cold injury and the role of starter fertilisers like phosphate and zinc, Kerry explains how small adjustments at planting can make a big difference at harvest. We also explore how biostimulants and plant growth regulators are giving farmers an extra edge in stressful conditions.
In this episode, abattoir manager and meat inspector Jeremiah Jothams unpacks why supplying poultry to abattoirs can be more profitable and sustainable than selling live birds. He explains the compliance requirements under the Meat Safety Act, including environmental impact assessments, water rights, and health declarations.Jothams also shares practical insights on biosecurity risks, vaccination, animal welfare in transport, and how to choose the right abattoir partner. Whether you’re a small-scale farmer or looking to grow your operation, this episode offers essential guidance to help you build a secure and bankable poultry business.
In this episode, we unpack an often-overlooked but crucial part of farming: workplace accidents and labour law compliance. Our guest, Stephan Pietersen, founder of Work Accident Support, explains how he helps farmers and farm workers navigate the complex world of South Africa’s labour legislation, specifically the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA).Stephan breaks down why it’s essential for farmers to be correctly registered with the compensation fund, how to deal with government processes when workplace accidents occur, and the most common mistakes farmers make in this area.Whether you’re running a livestock operation or planting crops, this episode gives you the knowledge to manage risks, stay compliant, and protect both your workers and your farming business.
Behind every cut of meat is a story of farmers, veterinarians, and inspectors working to protect your health. In this episode, powered by the Red Meat Producers' Organisation, Dr Shayna Louw, Veterinary Public Health Veterinarian at the Red Meat Abattoir Association, takes us through the hidden systems that keep meat free from harmful bacteria and residues. From farm to fridge, discover how meat is kept safe, common myths about handling it at home, and practical tips to ensure the meat on your plate is always wholesome.
The 2025 edition of Agri’s Got Talent (AGT) ended on a high note when Patensie-born Jenedine Jantjies took the crown, bringing immense pride to her small Eastern Cape community. In this inspiring episode, Jantjies reflects on the whirlwind of emotions she felt when her name was announced, the overwhelming support from her hometown, and her journey from babysitting the children of farmworkers to discovering her place in agriculture.AGT project manager Thea van Zyl also joins the conversation, sharing why the competition is about so much more than music. From confidence-building to community upliftment, AGT has been transforming lives for over a decade - proving that agriculture’s greatest stories are not only found in the fields, but also on the stage.Tune in to hear Jenedine’s story of resilience, passion, and pride, and learn why her kindness, smile, and love for music set her apart as this year’s shining star.
South Africa has become a global leader in agricultural biotechnology – ranking eighth worldwide in biotech crop production. With adoption rates of 87% for maize, 95% for soybean, and 100% for cotton, farmers are proving the value of genetically engineered crops in the face of climate stress, pests, and rising costs.In this episode, Kerry Rowlands, field agronomist at Pannar Seed, explains how biotech crops are boosting productivity, profitability, and sustainability. From insect resistance and herbicide tolerance to stacked traits and new advances like drought tolerance, Kerry breaks down the science, the safety checks, and the stewardship practices that make this technology so powerfu
In this episode, we dive into the essentials of greenhouse crop protection and why it’s a game-changer for farmers. From scouting and biosecurity to the role of beneficial insects and organic solutions, we explore practical strategies to keep pests and diseases under control. With insights from MJ Nunes of Sable Creek Farms, you’ll learn common mistakes to avoid, sustainable methods to protect your crops, and how to make your greenhouse system more resilient and market-ready.
Strong, fertile goats. Fewer parasite problems. Herds that bounce back quickly after kidding. Sounds too good to be true? Not for farmers like Sizwe Thusi in KwaZulu-Natal, who rely on Voermol Game Block to keep their goats in peak condition all year round.In this episode, we shine the spotlight on Voermol Game Block with Dr. Josef van Wyngaard, Voermol Feeds’ technical manager. We break down its benefits, explain how to use it effectively, and share why so many farmers consider it essential for sustainable goat and livestock farming.
In this special pre-competition episode, we bring you intimate interviews with all the contestants of Agri’s Got Talent 2025. You’ll hear about the highs, the nerves, and the moments that surprised them during the intense training week.They share how training week was filled with unforgettable moments and breakthroughs that pushed them beyond their comfort zones.
Comments
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States