ProAgri Zambia 17

ProAgri technology for the farmer

Z a m b i a

No 17

Free

27 APRIL 2017: COMMERCIAL FARMERS FOCUS DAY

28 - 29 APRIL: OPEN TO ALL FARMING PROFESSIONALS

Valley landscapes the future

AGRItech promises many surprises

Cover

Letter from the Editor

T

he new National Agricultural Policy has been launched and it looks splendid. Let us hope that the implementation will be just as impressive. The Agriculture Minister, Honourable Dora Siliya, said that government wants to strengthen the arm of extension services and to diversify agricultural crop production. Maize shouldn’t be the only crop the country depends on. This policy also promotes irrigation in order to have an all year round agricultural season.

Mechanisation and the adoption of technology also received special attention and farmers should also take care to reduce wastage.

According to the government, only 10% of maize had to be replanted due to the fall army worm invasion. Despite this tragedy, there are still promises of bumper crops on the horizon.

The controversial Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) died this month.

During the past 14 years it has proved to have very small positive impact on production and poverty reduction. There were even claims that poverty increased slightly over this period, since the qualifying requirements were unattainable for the really poor farmers, while the farmers on the next level reaped all the benefits.

This month is AGRItech month and Spintelligent, the organisers, promised us that the event will be even bigger and better than last year. We have printed 11 000 magazines and if you haven’t received your personal copy already, you can come and pick it up at our stall at SME13. Bring your friends and spend some time with us. We have inserted a big A2 map in the magazine to find your way to all our loyal clients.

Farm smartly!

Du Preez de Villiers dupreez@proagri.co.za

Afgri is the proud distributor of the majestic John Deere 8RT-series. Visit their stand at AgriTech to learn more what these impressive tracks can do for you.

ProAgri technology for the farmer

Z a m b i a

Office no. 3 Fens Investment Building Lusaka Show Grounds

+26 (0)96-216-9801 www.proagri.co.za

Copyright © 2013. All rights reserved. No material, text or photographs may be reproduced, copied or in any other way transmitted without the written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher or of the editor. We recognise all trademarks and logos as the sole property of their respective owners.

ProAgri shall not be liable for any errors or for any actions in reliance thereon.

ProAgri Zambia Editor Du Preez de Villiers > +27 82-598-7329 dupreez@proagri.co.za General Manager Zambia Quintus Grobler > +26 (0)96-216-9801 quintus@proagri.co.za

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Reporters Annemarie Bremner > +27 82-320-3642 annemarie@proagri.co.za Benine Cronjé > +27 73-105-6938 benine@proagri.co.za Marketing Xander Pieterse > +27 79-524-0934 xander@proagri.co.za Stefan van Wyk > +27 82-381-7563 stefan@agritrader.co.za

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Content

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37

41

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Handling of beef cattle: Part 7

7

Novatek is ready to support Mpongwe poultry farmers

12

NTX: The planter that makes the no-till dream come true

17

AGRItech Expo is around the corner

19

The future lies in Amazone’s soil tillage implements

23

Landscaping the future with Irritech and Valley

25

Stanbic: We support agribusiness

27

SOIL: The farmer’s most important asset. Part 14

32

The Brown Revolution: Address the root of sustainable production

37

See what ETG’s soluble products can do for you

41

Agrico turns water into profit and rural development

ProAgri Zambia 17

martly!

Farm s

Tiny Smith > +27 79-531-0024 tiny@proagri.co.za Melissa Pols > +27 83-748-3413 melissa@proagri.co.za Design Esta van Niekerk Enquiries Lize du Plooy > +27 12-803-0667 lize@proagri.co.za Engela Botha > +27 12-803-0667 engela@proagri.co.za Accounts Ronel Keet > +27 12-803-0667 accounts@proagri.co.za Distribution Du Preez de Villiers > +27 12-803-0667 dupreez@proagri.co.za.co.za Business manager George Grobler

March 2017

1

Visit us at

Agritech Expo 2017.

Czech Pavilion

info@agriserveagro.com +26 096-976-7272 Willem van Zyl Willem@agriserveagro.com +26 096-562-0775

ProAgri Zambia 16

February 2017

27

How to handle your beef cattle We are almost through the raining season, but the rains and moist conditions can still bring diseases. To keep the vet bills low it is of utmost importance to dip or spray your cattle in time. This is the seventh part in our beef cattle handling series and this month we look at everything around dipping. We thank the ARC-Institute for Agricultural Engineering in South Africa who made their manual on handling facilities available to the readers of ProAgri Zambia.

Part 7: Dipping

Dipping facilities

Many cattle diseases are transmitted by ticks and in cases of a serious infection, anaemia can follow. The most effective method of controlling ticks is to dip the animals regularly. In South Africa the following dipping methods and facilities, or combinations thereof, are used: • • • • • •

Spray dip Immersion dipping Pour-on remedies Hand spray or tractor spray Hoof dip Draining pens

The basic requirements to which any dip must comply, are the following: • Large enough capacity • Must not waste dipping fluids • Must wet the animal thoroughly.

• Must not have a slippery surface • The cattle must not be able to turn in the dip Spray dip or spray race A spray dip is a dip where cattle move through a passageway equipped with sprayers that apply the dip. Sprayers are arranged to thoroughly drench the animal. The dip then runs off and is collected in a pit, from where it is filtered and pumped through the sprayers again. Wetting by spray dip is generally not as thorough as that of the immersion dip. According to Nieuwoudt (1996), correct installation and good management are, however, the determining factors of a spray dip. An effective spray dip offers a number of benefits, such as: • A fresh mixture of dip is used for each dipping session, which means that the dip concentrate is always correct at the beginning of the dipping process.

• It is possible to adapt the dip mixture immediately as soon as ticks begin to build up resistance to a certain type of dip.

A spray dip or spray race ProAgri Zambia 17

A further advantage is that contamination in a spray dip is relatively low. As a result, the storing of proteins and the possible build-up of bacteria are not March 2017

3

possible. Some farmers maintain that the anxiety factor of cattle in a spray dip is much less than in an immersion dip. This fact is important for feedlots and dairy complexes where anxiety definitely has an influence on the meat and milk production.

The disadvantages of the spray dip is that conventional sprayers become blocked easily if the dipping fluid is not kept clean. Some parts of the body, such as the belly, the tail and ears, may not be drenched thoroughly. A possible solution is to hang a wet bag or a piece of canvas at the entrance of the spray dip so that the cattle do not simply walk through, but move through slower and more carefully. In this way a better and more even wetting is ensured. White painted inner walls brighten the interior of the spray dip and lessens the anxiety factor in the animals.

Animals must drink water before they are dipped to prevent the dipping fluid from dripping into the water troughs after the dipping process. This contaminates the water that other animals have to drink.

Animals that are not used to the spray dip must first be taken through the dip two or three times with the sprayers turned off to help them get used to the dip. Transparent roof sheets brighten up the “tunnel”, improve the flow of cattle and prevent the unnecessary loss of dipping fluid Regular maintenance on the spray dip system is necessary.

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Immersion dip

With this method, cattle are completely immersed in a dip tank. The general wetting with this system is very good as a result of turbulence against the animal’s skin, which achieves a good penetration between the animal’s hair.

As in the case of a spray dip, design and management are important to achieve the desired level of protection against ticks.

The immersion dip has a few disadvantages: • The dip tank can crack and seepage of dipping fluid can occur.

• The anxiety factor in cattle is reasonably high.

• Gestating cows can abort if the entrance is not designed correctly.

• Because of the use of a large volume of dipping fluid, it is unpractical, as well as uneconomical to make a new mixture every time dipping has to be done. Good control over the concentration of the dipping fluid is therefore very important.

Manual spraying Cattle are sprayed with dipping fluid in a crush. This process is done manually and gives a fair level of tick control.

It takes a lot of time, however, and is unpractical for large herds. Installation and running costs are relatively low.

Pour-ons (systemic) The tendency to use systemic remedies is becoming more popular. The fluid is applied to the animal’s skin in a limited quantity, from the head to the tail, along the spine. The oiliness of the skin and hair spreads the fluid over the rest of the body. Pour-on fluids are quick and easy to apply, no special facilities are needed and no wastage of fluid takes place.

Tilting table This process has been mechanised ProAgri Zambia 17

over the years. A unit that applies the fluid is positioned in the crush. Applications are electronically controlled so that the dose is adapted to the mass of the animal. This is a timesaving method and is very popular in the feedlot industry. Good quality dipping fluid must however be used to prevent parasites from becoming immune to the remedies. These remedies are relatively expensive, but favourable results are obtained.

Hoof bath A hoof bath serves a very good purpose, especially if it is used to wash mud and manure from the animals’ hoofs before allowing them into the dip. It is easier to clean the hoof bath than the sieve and sprayers of a spray dip, or cleaning an immersion dip.

The floor of the hoof bath must be corrugated like corrugated iron. It opens the hooves slightly, so that all the mud and manure trapped in the hooves are rinsed out. The drainage pipe must be installed in such a way that the hoof bath can be cleaned easily.

Dripping pen Dripping pens are usually combined with the dip facilities. The main purpose of these types of pens is to get some of the dipping fluid back into the tank after the dipping process. Two pens are recommended to ensure a continuous flow of dipped cattle. While pen 1 is being filled with cattle, cattle are dripping in pen number 2. Approximately 2 m² of standing space per animal must be allowed. The floor must be made of concrete, with an incline for the dipping fluid to run back into the dip tank.

Other methods Other methods can be used, especially to get rid of heart-water bearing ticks, namely: • Implanting substances behind the animal’s ear • Intravenous injection of antibiotics and vaccine

Next month we shall look at lifting equipment, artificial insemination, hay racks and handling pens.

Published with acknowledgement to the AR-Institute for Agricultural Engineering for the use of their Beef Cattle Handling Manual. Visit www.arc.agric.za for more information.

March 2017

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Novatek is gearing up to support Mpongwe poultry farmers bDu Preez de Villiers

The market for animal feed, especially for poultry feed, is showing spectacular growth.

This trend allowed Novatek to build a brand new plant in Mpongwe, equipped with state of the art technology.

The Novatek animal feeds plant on the Zambeef farm close to Mpongwe is in the final phase before commissioning.

W

e visited the Novatek plant in Lusaka in November last year and they are still running at maximum capacity. Since Mpongwe also falls within a huge commercial and emerging farming block, Novatek chose this vicinity to establish the new plant.

Since Novatek belongs to Zambeef, it made sense to build the plant on their farm, right next to the town.

The plant concentrates on producing feed for non-ruminants such as poultry and pigs. For poultry, the whole series of feed, from day-old chicks to parent stock, will be produced. Feed will be produced either in the form of mash or pellets.

The project was launched five years ago as part of the Zamhatch investment into a hatchery on the farm, and stalled after some difficulties, but now the end is in sight. Six months ago, Johan Wolhuter arrived in Mpongwe.

He is in charge of completing this huge operation. He is an animal nutritionist, but since he grew up on a farm, he is also acquainted with project management, like any good farmer should be.

Novatek didn’t play around when designing the plant. The facility is ca-

pable of producing 20 tonnes an hour, (130 000 tonnes per year) and the heart of the plant is a batch mixer delivering two tonnes every four minutes.

The rest of the complex system of raw product silos, transporting systems, cleaners, hammer mills, a conditioner, extruders, premix bins, a pelletiser, dryer and finally the final product silos with the bulk filling and bag filling plant is seven storeys high. A full length weigh bridge will ensure that every tonne of raw material and every finished product will carry the correct weight label.

Novatek receives the maize and wheat bran from the local mills. The premixes and phosphates come from South Africa. The calcium source is feed grade lime coming from a new mine in Mpongwe. Other components like maize and soy beans are locally sourced.

But building a feed plant in Zambia is not about production only. The positive impact on the community is immense. Novatek will create 150 new jobs, and brand new houses will be built on the farm for all their staff. “One of my big projects is to build two small villages close to the plant,” Johan says. “One is for the general workers and the other one for the more senior staff. Every house will have running water and electricity.

The need for jobs in Mpongwe is huge and we shall make a big dent in unemployment in this area. Since the plant has a bag-handling facility for smallerJohan Wolhuter standing next to the heart of the scale farmers, many mixing plant - a 2 tonne batch mixer. 30 different manual labourers components can be included and every cycle takes will be required.” four minutes.

ProAgri Zambia 17

The minerals and trace elements will be placed in an easy to operate, failproof micro dosing system with a large screen and digital locks.

Novatek is the leader in producing state of the art animal feeds.

Contact our Sales Manager at +26 097-877-9017 or e-mail salesmanager@novatek.co.zm.

March 2017

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There is only RINGLOK® and HINGEJOINT® fencing

zane@bonnox.co.za | gerda@bonnox.co.za | linda@bonnox.co.za

ONE Bonnox RINGLOK® and HINGEJOINT® are our trademarks

Foto:Brahmangenootskap SA

www.bonnox.co.za |

012-666-8717

ProAgri Zambia 17

March 2017

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Xfarm’s NTX disc planter: Paragon of perfect planting

I

n 1998, Xfarm totally changed the cultivation of cereal crops in the South and Western Cape with the launch of a customised planter for conservation farmers.

Today, eighteen years later, this concept of placing seed precisely with only one movement through the field, is still the only way for Cape grain farmers to survive successfully; by countering the low growth rate in grain prices with higher yields.

The DBX (DB stands for deep blade) of 1998 has turned around the damage caused by years of intensive tillage, by giving nature the opportunity to repair the damaged soil structure.

Limited tillage, just enough to stimulate vertical root growth, together with the preservation of organic material, and managing a crop rotation practice with nitrogen-fixing crops, has improved the soil to such an extent that water retention and the availability

The NTX planter effectively cuts through stubble without excessive soil disturbance.

12

March 2017

of nutrients more than doubled.

Yields subsequently doubled and this gave farmers another chance to escape from the cost squeeze.

Farmers who have consistently practiced minimum tillage for more than a decade, are now ready to move to the next level of conservation farming for even better results, namely no-till.

The new NTX planter (NT stands for no-till) from Xfarm has been designed and developed to meet this need.

In 2015, extensive practical prototype tests were performed, and in 2016 the first three fully fledged No-Till (or Zero-Till, as it is also known) planters were The NTX's planter row units - note the dual launched. cutting discs, heavy, solid beam and high The proven method of using flotation wheels. rotating cutting discs to form the a V-shaped profile 50 mm wide. The furrows for planting was employed.

V-shaped profile has the ability to comThe planter had to meet the following pensate automatically for various soil requirements: types, whether it be lighter sandy soil • Seed should be placed accurately at or heavy clay soil. the right depth and with the right It is extremely important to cut spacing through the plant residues covering the • The planter should easily cut through surface without folding the stubbles the residue and effectively penetrate (hairpinning). Mulch from crop residues the soil as well as the remains of new growth, • It should be a priority not to disturb killed with herbicides on the field, is the soil necessary to conserve moisture and to • The planter must be robust enough restrict weed germination. To penetrate to complete a planting season withthe mulch effectively so that the seeds out any maintenance are placed in the soil without ending up • The machine must have the structurin the cover material, requires specific al integrity to ensure a long lifetime techniques.

• It should fold to a width narrow Apart from the weight and pressure enough to be easily transported on on the planter unit, the decisive facnational roads without escort tor is the angle at which the discs are vehicles positioned in relation to each other; it must be exactly right. A narrow angle To ensure accurate seed placement, causes the least soil disturbance but the choice was a double-disc opener. complicates seed placement, while a The cutting depth of the discs is wider angle requires more pressure to controlled by an adjustable prespenetrate the plant residues. sure wheel. The pressure wheel has ProAgri Zambia 17

This is how a planter should follow contours to maintain a precise planting depth. were necessary to carry the weight of the planter. The planter was cleverly designed in such a way as to avoid any weight resting on the hydraulic cylinTo effectuate the necessary weight ders either during planting or during to the planter units, the planter frame transport. The only times that the hymust be heavy. Therefore, the main draulic cylinders have to carry a load, beam is made of thick steel and filled are when the planter is lifted during with concrete. Hydraulic technology is turning on the headland, and when it also used to transfer the weight of the is being folded or unfolded. This design commodity unit in which the seed and protects the oil seals and extends the fertiliser are transported to the planter life of the cylinders. wings while they follow the contours of For transport, the planter folds to a the field. width not much wider than the wheels The more the soil is disturbed, the of a dual wheeled tractor. A bulk seed more weed seeds germinate. It is curtank, two fertiliser tanks and tank for rently one of the biggest obstacles in additional products such as fine seeds, no-till practices, because incorporated slug pellets or chemicals, are mounted pre-emergence herbicides cannot be onto the chassis to keep the planter used successfully anymore. going for at least three hours of plantTo accommodate slopes without ing before reloading is required. This causing more soil disturbance, double increases productivity to make maxidisc openers, mounted in one row, are mum use of the critical time available used. By reducing inter row spacing during the planting season. beyond 200 mm, the plant density in Although the planting speed may the row can be reduced. be marginally higher than that of tined Trails proved that less competition planters, a lower operating speed will in the rows stimulate plant developcause less soil disturbance. A speed not ment, while narrow rows expedited the exceeding 8 to 9 km/h is recommendformation of a canopy to inhibit weed ed. It's already an increase of 30% germination. in hectares planted against the 6 to 7 Wide wheels with high flotation tyres km/h at which tined planters operate.

The real benefit of higher productivity is found in the lower power requirement of only 4 kW per planter unit.

Tractors' computers revealed that there was no big difference in power requirements when the planter was in the ground planting, or when it was simply being towed. This means that the main need for power is the planter’s weight. The result of this fact is that the planting speed remains relatively constant, and that it is not influenced by soil conditions. In itself, this is a Road transport is not a problem for the NTX. It major contribution to drasfolds up to more or less a tractor’s width.

ProAgri Zambia 17

tically increased productivity.

It should be emphasised that this planting method depends entirely on the role of plant roots in cultivation. To ensure successful yields, strict consideration should be given to controlled traffic, cover crops and the total absence of livestock. Soil structure should comply with minimum requirements before no-till can be considered.

The state of the soil should remain favourable for vertical root development to benefit from the advantage of improved moisture conservation.

The NTX’s result is the paragon of perfect planting.

Prepare yourself for the next planting season: Order your NTX from Xfarm now by calling Rinus Willemse on 082-441-7255 / 028735-2425, or send him an e-mail to: rinus@xfarm.co.za.

March 2017

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TILAPIA FRY MASH MIN PROTEIN 48% FIBRE FAT 6% CA 0,80% TP 0,60%

TILAPIA GROWER FLOATING PELLET MIN MAX PROTEIN 32% FIBRE 8% FAT 8% CA 0,80% TP 0,60%

MAX 6%

AGE (weeks) AVE WEIGHT (g)

FEED

grams/day

1

0.5

2

1.5

3

3

4

6

480

5

10

700

6

15

1050

7

22

1430

8

32

1920

9

45

10

63

3465

11

88

4400

12

122

6100

13

170

7650

100 225 TILAPIA FRY

TILAPIA GROWER

300

2475

14

230

15

290

16

360

14400

17

410

14350

18

450

12375

19

490

12250

10035 TILAPIA FINISHER

NOTES 1. Average growth = 4.5g/day overall 2. Expected FCR: 1.3 - 1.4:1 max FCR 1.55:1 3. Feed 5 times per day 4. Feed should be fresh, dry and kept out of sunlight 5. Feed buckets should be kept clean and dry 6. Keep modules clean - remove excess feed and dead fish daily.

Photo – D van Heerden, Syngenta ProAgri Zambia 17

TILAPIA FINISHER FLOATING PELLET MIN MAX PROTEIN 30% FIBRE 8% FAT 6% CA 1,00% TP 0,40%

11600

AFRICA FEEDS LTD T/A Tiger Animal Feeds Reg No 36327 TIGER ANIMAL FEEDS PO Box 31712, Lusaka Zambia www.tigerfeeds.com Switchboard: 0967 790404 Orders: 0966 763650 Nutritional Helpline: 0967 991847 Chicks: 0967 855495 March 2017

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AGRItech Expo is around the corner

“Z

ambia is an exciting market to explore, not just for South African suppliers to the agriculture sector, but also for South African farmers,” says Liam Beckett, Commercial Director of the upcoming AGRItech Expo Zambia. The event is presented by the Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU) and will be held at the GART Research Farm in Chisamba from 27 to 29 April 2017. The latest agricultural products and services will be on display.

Last year, AGRItech Expo Zambia drew a record-breaking attendance of 17 605 visitors. This year, even more small-scale, emerging and commercial farmers are expected.

“The South African market has become saturated in some sectors,” says Liam, “and many South African companies are looking to branch out across the border in order to continue their business growth in Africa. In Zambia, there are approximately 400 registered commercial farming professionals, which offer a very lucrative potential market. The Zambian farming sector is also far more advanced than other neighbouring countries, and farming methods are also similar to those followed in South Africa. Therefore, South African brands and products, such as implements and agro chemicals, are all applicable in Zambia.”

More international exposure The Expo will furthermore feature an even greater international presence with international pavilions from Germany, Zimbabwe, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, the UK and France already confirmed.

Liam says: “Just judging from the big increase in international pavilions, the global interest in Zambia as an agri market is obvious. Already there is ProAgri Zambia 17

major international investment in the country at present, as well as projects being planned, and if a South African company wants to establish a footprint in Zambia, they need to make sure they grab this business development opportunity now before they miss out.”

The South African companies that have so far booked exhibit space or sponsorships at AGRItech Expo Zambia include AGRICO, Gallagher Power Fence SA Pty Ltd, Hydraform, Kempston Agri – Claas, Lindsay Africa, Neptun Boot, Organico, Senter 360, Teejet and ROFF. “For South African farmers, Zambia is of interest in that they can learn from many new technologies, agro chemicals and commercial farming methods that are available in Zambia.”

As in the past, AGRItech Expo Zambia will also offer free workshops, as well as live machinery and product demonstrations and crop trials. Novelties for this year will be specialised agri-sector industry zones and mowing and baling demonstrations.

Coveted awards AGRItech Expo Zambia recently won two coveted awards at the ROAR Organiser and Exhibitor Awards in Johannesburg, where excellence in the exhibition and events industry on the continent is honoured. Agritech Expo won awards for Best Trade & Consumer Exhibition +12 000 sqm and for Distinction in Social Responsibility.

The Expo also has an outreach programme at the local Golden Valley Basic School, where, with the assistance of numerous event sponsors, the school is assisted with much needed infrastructure upgrades, equipment supplies and management of the school’s farm.

As in previous years, AGRItech Expo enjoys extensive support from the agri industry with well-known suppliers AFGRI and John Deere returning as platinum sponsors once more. Confirmed gold sponsors are Action Auto, Agricon, BHBW, Case Construction, Case Agriculture, Gourock and SARO. What the people say about AGRItech Expo: Dave Gordon, owner of Sable Farms in Zambia's Chibombo district and VIP visitor to AGRItech Expo Zambia, is very impressed with the Expo: “We all are amazed at how well AGRItech is organised; the event runs very smoothly and is very impressive. Well done to all.”

He also believes AGRItech Expo is very important to Zambian farmers, because “it shows all the new technology and the latest equipment available. Many international companies are coming into Zambia, which is good for business and agriculture”.

Michael Bentley, Dealer Principal, Action Auto in Zambia and returning gold sponsor at AGRIech Expo, says: “Action Auto Zambia is proud to be associated with the AGRItech Expo once again; we are always in awe of how the team puts the whole event together.

“The AGRItech Expo offers an effective way to disseminate information and advice in crop and animal science and to introduce technology that can assist the small-scale farmer.”

For more information, visit: http://www.agritech-expo. com, or https://www.facebook.com/agritechexpozambia/ March 2017

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available to reconsolidate the soil after the discing operation.

The roller range comprises a wedge ring roller, cage roller, tandem roller, tooth-packer roller and knife ring roller.

The implement is available in working widths from 3 m to 12 m and is either mounted or trailed.

The new Amazone Cenius2TX trailed mulch cultivator can be used for jobs from shallow stubble work to deep topsoil loosening. It can be adjusted to suit just about every application, including conservation tillage. Four rows of C-Mix Super tines, with a staggered spacing of 280 mm and under-beam clearance of 800 mm, allow a reliable, blockage-free operation. The C-Mix share system offers share options for all applications and ensures an intensive incorporation. The tines are protected by a spring overload safety device with a release force of 600 kg. This allows safe working down to a depth of 300 mm, even in stony ground.

A perfect levelling effect is provided by serrated levelling discs with maintenance-free bearings, individually mounted on rubber elements for both contour following and overload protection. The TW tandem cage roller at the rear works blockage-free under variable conditions and does a good job of crushing dry clods and leaving a seedbed behind.

The future is in Amazone's soil tillage implements

Catros+ including GreenDrill

A

major portion of the costs of establishing a crop can be allocated to soil tillage and cultivation; the price of diesel is another consideration.

Increasing prices for inputs and the again low producer prices are exacerbating the situation even further. When it comes to the question of choosing an implement, many farms are looking for a tool that will not only help to reduce establishment costs but also be as versatile as possible.

Amazone, the leaders in innovation and German technology, offer a range

of soil tillage implements to suit every establishment’s needs and budget.

The Catros+ is ideal for quick, shallow and intensive stubble-mixing work and operates without plugging, even with high amounts of surface straw.

It is used mainly to incorporate maize stalks and grain stubble, to loosen up grassland or uncultivated land, and to incorporate organic manure. The Catros+ is fitted with serrated discs to increase the maximum possible working depth, which is approximately 15 cm. In addition, the wear limit is not reached so quickly. Of particular note is that the discs are very coarsely serrated, minimising the danger of harvest residues being simply run over – ideal, above all, in places where the combine, due to lodged grain, had to drive more slowly or had to reverse for a short time. In addition, the Catros+ can also be used for stubble work after harvesting grain or maize. Various rollers are

• The Cenius is used for shallow stubble working immediately after harvest at depths from 50 mm to 120 mm.

• For medium-depth soil tillage and intensive mixing in of crop residue at depths from 120 mm to 200 mm.

• Topsoil loosening at 200 mm to 300 mm.

• Incorporation of solid and liquid manure and organic material.

The Amazone GreenDrill is a pneumatic seeder. Used either in combination with the Catros Disc Harrow, KE Rotary Harrow or Catros Compact Disc Harrow, it enables the sowing of cover crops directly into stubble and is also used for pasture reseeding.

The Amazone range of soil cultivation implements offers the market everything from entry-level solutions through to the most advanced mechanised agricultural implements.

Amazone implements are distributed in South Africa by Falcon Agricultural Equipment.

Cenius 2TX Trailed ProAgri Zambia 17

For more information visit www.falconequipment.co.za March 2017

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20

March 2017

ProAgri Zambia 17

Landscaping the future with

On the eastern side of the Mkushi Farming Block, the whole landscape has undergone a marked change, opening the door to growth and a huge increase in food production. Fifteen Valley pivots are already supplying water to crops on the Kakushi farm as part of this development.

Photo: Mark James, Silverlands

W

ith the support of Silverlands Agricultural Services Limited (SASL), a Zambian agricultural development company, an earth dam with an 11,8 million m³ water storage capacity was constructed on the Kakushi River which flows through the farm.

Phase one of the development (826 hectares) was completed late last year when the first summer soy bean crop was established with the assistance of the newly installed Valley pivot irrigation system supplied by Zambian based Irritech.

Farm Manager, Niel Conradie, says Valley was the pivot of choice due to their history of reliability and quality products. Valley offers flexibility in their irrigation package design and makes

provision for remote automation in the future. “It is a popular pivot in the region, with a reliable after sales and back-up service,” says Niel.

The local Valley partner is Irritech Zambia. Niel says the design criteria in their tender exceeded requirements requested in the tender specifications.

He says the people from Irritech were efficient and dedicated to their well-planned installation programme.

“During the installation phase, they maintained good communication with us. Due to the scale of the project and the time frame in which to complete the project, Irritech encountered a few challenges which were met with urgency and professionalism.”

Even with the water supply from the

Niel Conradie, Farm Manager, expects a soy bean yield of between 2,8 and 4 t/ha from their first planting season. The double row of sprinklers is known as a boomback and allows for low pressure sprinklers to be used to prevent run-off of water on heavy soils.

ProAgri Zambia 17

dam, it is a priority for Silverlands not to waste water in a country that has its share of droughts. Another priority is to use electricity as efficiently as possible.

To attain both goals, it was decided to install Variable Speed Drives (VSD) on all the irrigation pumps supplying the water directly from the dam to all the different pivots.

This device allows for operational protection parameters to be set in relation to power supply, high and low voltage periods, water pressure, water requirements and demands (start up and shut down of pivots), and pump speeds.

It allows pump motors to start up slowly, eliminating high power demand peaks during start-ups, and it also regulates the speed of the pumps according to the water demand dictated by the number of pivots in operation.

It regulates the number of pumps in operation in relation to the number of pivots in operation through water pressure. For example if four pumps are running to supply five pivots and one pivot is turned off, the VSD will sense the increase in water pressure in the system and will close down one pump or reduce the speed of the pumps thus demanding less power whilst maintaining a constant water pressure to the remaining pivots in operation.

One pivot has been installed with Valley’s automation system as a trial.

This means the pivot can be remotely activated using a smart phone or computer.

Niel says: “This will also give us the capability to monitor the pivot during operation, it will indicate the pivot speed, how much water we are applying, water pressures, direction of travel, time turned on, and estimated time of completing a cycle, to name but a few of the functions available on this programme. If this trial is successful, we will automate the entire system as we make progress with the development.”

Meanwhile, the soy beans look promising and Niel expects a yield of between 2,8 and 4 tonnes/ha, with the majority of the fields being virgin land.

Wheat will be planted once the soy beans have been harvested.

Niel describes the after-sales service of Irritech and Valley as excellent. He is looking forward to the winter planting season, using water from a completely filled-up dam: “With the knowledge of a reliable quality Valley product and a well-designed irrigation scheme, coupled with a good product service back-up in the form of Irritech, we are confident that we will have a successful winter irrigation season.”

Contact Ross O’Donoghue at Irritech on +26(0)97-125-2016, 079691-9623 or ross@irritechsa.co.za for your irrigation solution, or visit www.irritechsa.co.za.

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Stanbic Bank Agribusiness

Stanbic Bank is amongst the leading financiers of agribusinesses in Zambia, directly supporting government’s focus on the growth of the sector. We are committed to the development of agribusinesses across the value chain with tailored solutions that cater for all players, including input suppliers, agro dealers, farmers/outgrowers, off-takers and traders, processing units, distributors, wholesalers and retailers.

T

o support our agribusiness customers, we have a team of dedicated specialists on the ground. We have sound knowledge of the end-to-end experiences faced by agribusinesses and are able to add value over and above ordinary banking solutions. We are located in the major farming blocks

like Mkushi, Lusaka, Mazabuka, Ndola, Kabwe and Choma, while extending our agribusiness finance proposition to other prominent and developing farming areas like Mpongwe, Chisamba, Mufulira, Kitwe, Livingstone and Serenje.

In addition, we provide a strong

global markets service to support cross-border trade, forex trading and hedging needs. Payment and collection solutions with point of sales ensure a safe and secure cashless means of transacting for our customers.

Apart from this, our Business on Line (BOL) internet banking services make it easy and convenient for our clients to transact from remote locations.

In addition, we offer a wide range of investment options with attractive returns on fixed deposit accounts and off-shore banking solutions for international investors through our Wealth and Investment teams based in London, Jersey, South Africa and Mauritius.

To further our commitment to agriculture, we are currently in collaboration with a number of key industry players to provide affordable and structured working capital and equipment finance solutions tailored to fit our customers’ needs.

During 2016 Stanbic Bank Zambia was awarded: • Best Bank in Zambia by Euromoney • Best Investment Bank by EMEAfinance • Best Agribusiness Bank by Global Banking and Finance • Best Foreign Exchange Provider by Global Finance.

Our clients’ vision for growth, matched with our knowledge, expertise and innovative Zambian solutions, makes us the right partner in this country we call home.

Visit our stand at the Agritech Expo in Chisamba to find out more about the leading agribusiness specialists.

Stanbic Bank Zambia Head Office Addis Ababa Drive Plot 2375 Lusaka 0211-370000-18 www.stanbicbank.co.zm ProAgri Zambia 17

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Part 14: Organic material in soil (i) Martiens du Plessis, Soil Scientist, NWK Limited & Prof Cornie van Huyssteen, Lecturer: Soil Science, University of the Free State

Soil is the most fundamental resource for the farmer, without which food and natural fibre cannot be produced. This article forms part of a series to highlight this resource.

O

rganic material makes up only a small fraction of the soil, but it has a significant impact on the properties of soil. In the next few articles in this series on soil, we shall discuss this important fraction.

The organic fraction The fixed phase of soil comprises inorganic minerals (sand, silt and clay) and organic particles. The organic material content of soil in South Africa is typically lower than two percent and, in most cultivated soils, lower than 0,4%. And yet the organic material has a significant impact on soil properties.

Organic material mainly comprises carbon (C), hydrogen (H), oxygen (O), phosphorus (P), nitrogen (N) and sulphur (S), as well as a number of other elements which occur in smaller quantities. Plant residue (above and below ground level), soil organisms, dead animals and excretions of live animals, are all sources of organic material in soil. In the soil, the added organic material is broken down into more elementary components which, in turn, form humus. The water soluble products are normally leached out of the soil.

Humus Humus refers to the colloidal (very small) organic material in soil which offers resistance to further breaking down and usually gives soil a brown or black colour. Typically, it is the up-

Plant coverage Crop cultivation Field grass (dry climate) Field grass (moderate climate) Bushveld Tropical rain forest

per 200 to 300 mm of the soil profile that is enriched and coloured darkly by humus. When organic material is added to the soil, it serves as a source of nutrition for all the soil fauna and flora. It is broken down to the basic organic components. These basic components then bind together into complex compounds to form humus.

Humus is therefore an organic product that forms in the soil. Humus colloids can bind with silicate clays to form relatively stable organo-clay complexes.

In the process, mineral particles are bound together by organic fractions to form stable larger structures (aggregates) (Figure 1).

Organic humus colloids have a higher specific surface, higher electrical charge density and a higher cation exchange capacity. Humus is therefore chemically very reactive in soils and therefore changes constantly.

Figure 1: Example of sand and clay particles which are bound together by organic molecules to form aggregates (Source: Brady, NC. 1990).

Functions of organic material in soil Organic material promotes plant growth through its effect on physical, chemical and biological properties of soil: • It has a nutritional function as it provides nitrogen in particular, but also other nutritional materials for plant absorption;

Organic material (t ha-1 year-1) 1,5 - 3,5 0,5 - 2,0 3,5 - 6,5 3,5 - 5,0 8 - 16

Organic C* (ton/ha/year) 1-2 0,3 - 1,2 2-4 2-3 5 - 10

Figure 1: Example of sand and clay particles which are bound together by organic molecules to form aggregates (Source: Brady, NC. 1990).

ProAgri Zambia 17

• It has a physical function as it promotes the soil structure and, in so doing, it also promotes tillability, water infiltration, aeration and the water retention ability; • It has a biological function as it has a significant impact on the activity of soil micro-fauna and -flora.

Humus also plays an indirect role in soil as it influences the absorption of micro-nutritional elements by plants, as well as enhancing the effect of weed killers and other agricultural chemicals. The effect of this will naturally differ from one type of soil to another and will also be dependent on environmental factors such as climate and the history of tillage.

Plant nutritional materials Organic material has both a direct and indirect effect on the availability of plant nutritional materials. Organic material is a source of N, P, S and other plant nutritional materials, when the organic material is mineralised (broken down) by micro-organisms. Humus can also influence the provision of nutritional materials from other sources by, for example, serving as an energy source for bacteria that attach N. Effect on physical and chemical properties of soil Intensive tilling leads to the break-up of the natural structure of the upper layer of soil. This break-up in the structure is the result of the mineralisation of humus. As a result of the break-up of the structure, the upper layer of soil hardens, closes up with rain showers, and becomes denser and lumpy. Aeration, water infiltration, water retention ability and drainage therefore benefit from healthy humus levels.

The regular addition of organic material leads to the formation of organic complexes which bind together soil particles in crumbly and granular structures. These aggregates help to create a loose, open and receptive structure. Water infiltrates and drains better and is also stored better. Larger pores lead to better gas exchange between the soil and the atmosphere.

This leads to better oxygen provision to plant roots, which is needed for root respiration.

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Vegatation Atmosphere

Soil Bicarbonates in draining systems

Oceans and lakes

Sediment

Colloidal humus contributes 20 to 70% of the cation exchange capacity of upper layer soils. (Humus has a CEC of about 200 cmolc kg-1.) That while the acidity varies between 3 and 14 cmolc kg-1.

Effect on soil biology Organic material is a source of energy for both soil fauna and flora. The numbers of bacteria, actinomycetes and fungi is determined to a large extent by the humus content. The number of earthworms and other fauna are strongly determined by the amount of fresh organic material in the soil. Certain organic matter, such as phenolic acids, is toxic for plants, while others such as auxins promote plant growth.

Organic material can also have a direct or indirect influence on pathogens in the soil. Adequate provision of organic material can benefit the growth of saprophytic organisms, while parasitic organisms are suppressed.

Biologically active compounds such as antibiotics and certain phenolic acids can improve the ability of plants to resist pathogenic attacks.

The effect of tillage on humus The humus content of the soil declines drastically during the first ten to thirty years of tillage, until a new equilibrium is reached. With equilibrium, humus forms at the same rate as that which is lost through mineralisation. In sandy soils, the degradation rate is rapid and this equilibrium is reached in about ten years and then at carbon levels of about 40% of the original. In loamy soils, the degradation is slower and equilibrium is only reached at about 20 to 30 years. In a warm, moist climate the degradation is quicker, while it is slower in a cool climate in particular.

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Fossil fuels

Figure 2: The global carbon cycle and carbon sources in petagram C per annum (1Pg = 1015 g) Soil organic material and the carbon cycle Sources of organic material in soils include plant residue, dead plant roots, dead animals, excretion from live animals and dead micro-organisms. This organic material is used as a source of energy by a variety of organisms and, in the process, the organic material becomes degraded. During the process, plant nutrition materials such as N, P, S and micro-nutritional substances are released via the process of mineralisation. Mineralisation is defined as the process through which organic molecules are converted into inorganic substances, while CO2 is released into the atmosphere. Some of the released substances can temporarily be trapped by micro-organisms via immobilisation. Soil therefore plays an important role in the global carbon cycle (Figure 2).

Fresh organic material mainly comprises hydrocarbons, proteins and fats, as well as smaller quantities of organic acids, lignin’s, waxes and rosin. The sugars and starches are degraded the quickest. However, hemicellulose and cellulose take longer. Proteins are usually broken down to form amino acids which are absorbed as is by microorganisms. Fats, lignin and waxes degrade slowly and therefore form an important part of organic material in the soil.

Should the C:N ratio of added organic material be greater than 25:1, all the nitrogen is absorbed by the micro-organisms and additional N is taken in from the soil. Therefore, a shortage of N in the soil occurs and the plants can experience an N shortage, the so-called nitrogen negative period. However, should the C:N ratio of the added organic material be less than 25:1, the excess N is released

by the micro-organisms and it may be absorbed by the plants. The C:N ratio of fresh organic material is about 80:1, while that of soil organic material is 12:1. This is the main reason why organic material is composted before being worked into the soil. Should fresh organic material, with a high C:N ratio be worked into the soil, it is advisable to work N fertiliser into the soil at the same time, thus preventing the nitrogen negative periods.

Summary Organic material is a highly important part of soil. Although it makes up only a tiny portion of the soil on a mass basis, it has a major eect on the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil. It also has a major influence on the productivity of soil in terms of production of food and fibre for man and animal. Soil plays a significant role in the immobilisation of carbon out of the atmosphere. Degradation of organic material in the soil means immobilised carbon that is presently in the atmosphere. Farming practice should therefore focus on conserving carbon in the soil and accumulating it.

For further information, please contact the authors on: Martiens du Plessis: 072-285-5414 / martiens@nwk.co.za Prof Cornie van Huyssteen: 051-401 9247 /vanhuyssteencw@ufs.ac.za

ProAgri Zambia acknowledges Grain SA for the use of this series which originally appeared in Afrikaans in SA Graan/Grain.

REFERENCES Brady NC. 1990. The nature and properties of soils. 10th ed. Macmillan publishing company, New York.

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See you at

2017

Barry Hutchinson +260 96802-2320 Chinso Chipopola +260 96940-7424 BHutchinson@bhbw.co.zm

ProAgri Zambia 17

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The Brown Revolution:

Address the root of sustainable production Dr Koos Bornman, General Manager; Strategic Agricultural Services Omnia

Control

Rhizovator ™

Growth experienced in wheat in the Southern Cape after Rhizovator™ application.

I

t is a generally known fact that the world will have to produce 70% more food by 2050 to feed its expected population of 9 milliard people.

In developing countries, such as in Africa, food production will even have to be doubled.

When the increased social and urban demands for agricultural land are taken into account, little opportunity remains for lateral expansion. In fact, an increase of only 70 million hectares, or less than 5%, in arable land, is predicted FAO High Level Expert Forum, 2009).

Due to the abovementioned, an urgent outcry can be expected for a second Green Revolution, which should

Normal fertigation (Control)

increase the efficiency of food production per unit area in a sustainable way.

Bill Gates, one of the protagonists of such a second Green Revolution, said: “The injunction is clear – we have to develop crops that can grow during a drought, that can survive a flood and that can withstand diseases and pests. We need higher yields on the same area amidst more unfavourable weather conditions.”

Within the Green Revolution, another revolution emerged, namely the Brown Revolution. The Brown Revolution is often regarded as the only sustainable action against a world-wide food crisis.

“It aims towards entering the next

era for farmers who should give as much attention to the improvement of soil quality as they are giving to raising crops. It revolves around less tillage and conservation practices that will conserve the soil structure and especially root health” (Lawton Corn and Soybean Digest, Jan 2013).

The understanding of soil conservation and root systems is an age old challenge, as Mary Beth Albright explains in The National Geographic of 13 October: “The Brown Revolution is here. Soil should indeed be treated with respect; in the words of Leonardo da Vinci: ‘We know more of the movements of celestial bodies than we know about the soil under our feet.’ These

Rhizovator™ treated

Illustration i off growth h experienced i in newly established Rhizotator™ t t ™ ttreated t d grape cuttings in the Western Cape five months after planting.

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words were spoken 500 years ago, and soil scientists admit that they still hold true.”

Omnia Nutrilogy® joined the Brown Revolution 13 years ago with the establishment of OmniBio™. OmniBio™ is a research and development unit within Omnia that studies soil life and health, and develop related concepts and products. Recently, the emphasis was shifted to the root system and particularly the rhizosphere (contact between soil and root) to find ways of improving root development. Part of the unit’s aim is to increase nutrient and water utilisation efficiency, and to raise the levels of resistance against diseases.

It seems as if root systems of crops are oppressed, apart from unhealthy soil, as a result of various factors.

Recent research proved that genetical manipulation of plants may negatively affect their root systems.

Research on small grains in the United Kingdom showed a fourfold reduction in the root length and denseness of wheat. This trend was also noticed in 17 other crops (White, Sylvester-Bradley and Berry, 2015).

The creation of a healthy environment for roots to thrive in and the addition of natural stimulants, can dramatically increase root growth, double water utilisation efficiency (White et al, 2015), and improve nutrient absorption by up to 400% (Fusseder and Krauss (1986) in Marschner, 2002).

OmniBio™ already developed a product range grouped under the trademark, Rhizovator™. These products contain various stimulants, including the well known humates, kelp extract and amino acids, but also exciting new components.

Each of these products is specifically formulated for a certain crop group and region.

Depending on the specific case, certain micro element combinations can

Figure 1.

Figure 2.

also be added to provide for locality specific needs.

The Rhizovator™ products were not only tested in various conservatory potted tests with grains and canola, but also in formal field trials. Research was also done on orchard and vineyard crops.

Statistically significant reactions in root growth were noted in all cases, with an increase of up to 200% in root mass (Figures 1 and 2).

Field tests in the Southern Cape have shown a statistically significant root mass increase of 23% on wheat, and even a 10% yield improvement as a result of the product.

Statistically significant increases (up to 26%) were also noticed in chlorophyll content (measured with the Minolta SPAD-502 meter), as well as increased nutrient uptake of more than 60%.

The Rhizovator™ product was applied in grape trials in three locations (Groblersdal, Worcester and Upington) to determine its effect on the establishment of vine cuttings. The results were astonishing. Some vine shoots reached the support wire within four months after planting, and even formed fruits (Figure 3).

In Groblersdal a yield of 4 500 boxes of export quality grapes was achieved within 15 months after planting the vine cuttings.

More Rhizovator™ products are being developed for various applications on various crops. The latest emphasis shift is towards the addition of live microbic cultures to serve as both stimulant and inhibitor of root diseases such as phytophtora and nematode infestations.

Omnia Nutrilogy® will definitely continue the Brown Revolution to improve root growth as well as the rhizosphere and/or soil health. In this way, critical aspects such as water and nutrient utilisation efficiency will be increased and sustainability will be supported.

Become part of the revolution!

Primary references: Marschner, H 2002. Mineral nutrition of higher plants. Academic Press, London. Second edition.

White, CA, Sylvester-Bradley, R & Berry PM 2015. Root length densities of UK wheat and oilseed rape crops with implications for water capture and yield. J Exp. Bot. 66 (8) 2293-2303.

Field trials done on Rhizovator™ treated grapes have shown significant growth.

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See what ETG’s soluble products can do for you

W

ater soluble fertilisers are fertilisers that can be dissolved in water and added to or leached out of the soil easily. With water soluble fertilisers, it is easy to control the precise amount of nutrients available for your plants (the control is more exact with soilless mixes).

Soluble fertilisers usually have N-P-K numbers listed on their labels.

The numbers listed are not always the exact percentages; they are an indication of the smallest percentage of the listed element that the fertiliser contains. The N stands for nitrogen, the P for phosphorus and the K for potassium, Ca for Calcium, S for Sulphur, Mg for Magnesium, Mn for Manganese, B for Boron, Fe for Iron, Zn for Zinc and Cu for Copper.

Trace elements are vital for chlorophyll formation and must be present in minute quantities. Little is known about the exact quantities needed.

They function mainly as a catalyst to plant’s processes and the utilisation of other elements. The ultimate goal of applying fertiliser is to supply your plant with the right quantity of nutrients, yet, at the same time not toxifying the soil via over-fertilisation.

ProAgri Zambia 17

At ETG we have a wide range of soluble fertilisers such as MAP Tech, SOP Tech, K-Leaf, Veggie Oemff, Sugar Oemff, Soya Oemff, Potassium Nitrate, Ammonium Sulphate fine, KynoPop, and Boronat. Specially formulated,

crop specific and growth stage specific products from our range of products will boost your crop to perform at their best during each growth stage. Each of the tailor-made formulations satisfy the macro and micro nutritional requirements of the plant at a particular phenological stage, and we therefore provide a range of solubles to fulfil every need.

These fertilisers are freely available and you should experience no trouble in locating solubles that suit your plant type and needs once you are in our premises or depots country wide.

The directions for usage, given on the products label, should be followed to achieve maximum results with your plants. Our team of agronomists will also support you with expert advice on solubles.

With a regular watering/fertilisation system, your plants can achieve amazing results and in some instances the products can almost double the growth of slow, sickly plants.

Using water soluble fertilisers is the easiest way to steadily feed your plants with the most nutrients that they are able to absorb, thereby, increasing the rate of growth. It is also the easiest fertiliser to apply for beginners and professional farmers alike, and therefore the most widely used.

So try it with your plants and see what amazing results you too can achieve through proper application of the comprehensive range of water soluble fertilisers that we stock at ETG. ETG: When farmers grow, we grow.

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Oxygenated water in Agriculture Using oxygenated water is effective in dripper lines and center pivots Ozone is a form of oxygen. The oxygen we breathe is in the form of oqygen molecules (O2) – two atoms of oxygen bound together. Ozone on the other hand, consists of three atoms of oxygen bound together (O3) BENEFITS OF USING OZONISED WATER IN IRRIGATION • Earl worm leaves oxygen rich soil • Destroys viruses, bacteria, fungi, spores and any other microorganisms and infectious diseases • More cost efficient • Higher production • Huge saving on electricity, water and fertilizer • Better tasting produce • Improve nutritious value of produce • Constantly keeps dripple lines clean • Oxygenated water is environmentally friendly

For more information contact Gert Coetzee: +27 81-386-4212 or gert@nedwater.co.za or Agent opportunities in visit www.nedwater.co.za various parts

of Africa.

Interested parties can contact Gert Coetzee gert@nedwater.co.za 38

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Y

ou can’t tell John Sawyer and his son, Jason much about farming in Africa. They graduated from Gwebi Agricultural College and Blackfordby Agricultural College in Zimbabwe respectively.

After losing their farm during the land seizures in Zimbabwe, they both gained experience in Nigeria. After a while, Jason started working on a Zambian farm to gain experience in corporate farming. In 2010 father and son purchased and started a partnership on Kingsfield farm in Serenje in the Luombwa Farm Block.

During the previous three years they produced soy beans on dry land, and last year they made the major move to purchase a turnkey pivot irrigation system from Agrico.

The Sawyers already had a good relationship with Agrico. “We used their systems in Zimbabwe. When we heard that they were coming to Zambia as themselves and not through an agent, it appealed to us as we felt we would get a better purchasing price and service straight from the manufacturer,” Jason says.

Agrico installed four pivots with eight towers each, covering a total area of 240 hectares. Experience also required the Sawyers to buy a state of the art pump station for each pivot.

They pump directly from the Luombwa River.

The Sawyers received their power supply during the time when Agrico installed the irrigation project, but the experience of their neighbours prompted the Sawyers to include a 250 KVA generator in the deal. Their generator allows them to irrigate three out of their four circles, which is significantly better than the frequent fluctuations or zero power their neighbours had to deal with. The Sawyers’ system is also supplied with an automatic changeover switch.

Agrico turns water into profit and rural development

by Du Preez de Villiers

“I am a firm believer in research and asking a lot of questions, and the more I spoke to Agrico the more boxes they ticked for us on what we required.”

The Sawyers of Kingsfield farm in Serenje plans to increase their soy bean yield with a tonne per hectare with their Agrico pivot irrigation system.

They opted for a 4 mm and a 9 mm nozzle package. The pump station compensates for the two different flow rates thanks to the installation of Variable Speed Drives (VSD). There is one pump set per pivot and a fifth one plumbed in for emergencies.

With the sector and trigger capabilities offered by the control system, they can set each of their pivot’s irrigation schedules in advance. The Sawyers opted for the top of the range management system - the Advanced Rain System. This gives them ultimate control of the pivots. “We have erected a GSM antenna on each pivot centre, so we can use Web Control software to run and manage our irrigation. It really is a complete management tool and definitely increases efficiency and saves time. Mistakes and down-time are reduced due to real time data at my finger tips on my phone and computer.

“We have yet to harvest our first irrigated soy bean crop, but we have seen a massive growth and quality

difference and expect to increase our farm average by 1 tonne / ha.”

Agrico’s irrigation system will allow the Sawyers to plant wheat for the first time this winter season. Now, double cropping will enable them to provide work throughout the year, as their labour needs expand – obviously increasing family incomes and skills development on irrigation systems.

“We ordered the system with high flotation tyres. They were more expensive, but will make up that difference with much less down time,” Jason says.

“The Agrico team on the ground is growing quickly and our after sales service has been great. I have been able to speak to the Lusaka Branch Manager, Hanre, on weekends, late at night and always get a decent responsive action,” Jason says.

Agrico’s Advance Rain control system gives Jason Sawyer all the remote management functions at his fingertips.

The sturdy structure of the Agrico framework compares with the best in the world.

ProAgri Zambia 17

An Agrico pivot system guarantees stability and profits. Contact Alfred Andrag at +27 82-8241214 or +27 21-950-411 or send him an e-mail to alfred.andrag@agrico.co.za.

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Christo Kloppers, Managing Director Gourock Agri Supplies LTD, Tel: +26 097 309 2271, Skype: christo.kloppers

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Kloppers

Construction and grain Storage solutions

Kloppers Construction and Grain Storage Solutions was established in 2014 with the aim of providing construction solutions for a wide variety of projects, ranging from paving, residential homes, commercial buildings, warehouses as well as civil works.

Lusaka based, the company is ideally positioned to offer its services throughout Zambia.

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