ProAgri Zambia 32

ProAgri technology for the farmer

Z a m b i a No 32

Free

Zambia welcomes Jupidex Novatek: More about trace minerals

sprayers raise the bar

Letter from the Editor

ProAgri No 32

Free

Zambia welcomes Jupidex

Cover

Novatek: Supply adequate minerals

Z

ambia has just lost its biggest honey export contract. Apparently a recent consignment of pure honey arriving in South Africa was contaminated with the American Foulbrood (Paenibacillus larvae) disease. This batch came from one farm, but South African authorities cancelled all import permits for pure honey from Zambia with immediate effect.

The South African Bee Industry Organisation (SABIO) claims that they are very concerned about the safety of honey imports from Zambia because it is not irradiated according to trade regulations.

According to trade regulations, South African authorities did not follow the right procedure. No official letter has been sent to the relevant authorities in Zambia as required by trade protocols.

The Zambia’s High Commissioner to South Africa, His Excellency Mr Emmanuel Mwamba, says that Zambia exports its pure honey to many markets, including the European Union with very strict regulations on honey imports. They would definitely have cancelled the contract if the American Foulbrood disease was detected.

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Content

Z a m b i a

technology for the farmer

9

11

This is not the first time Zambia experienced difficulties to retain their export contract with South Africa.

Since the last issue, they put in extensive work to ensure that Zambian pure honey is disease free. Mr Mwamba called on the South African authorities to urgently resolve this problem and turn around this devastating decision.

Since South Africa’s honey consumption is approximately 5 000 tonnes per year and they can only produce about 2 000 tonnes per year, they would be wise to solve this problem as soon as possible.

This month we welcome Jupidex and their world-renowned implements to Zambia, and Bednar shows their rugged implements from the Czech Republic. Tiger Feeds, Novatek and Savannah Streams point out valid points in animal production and Bonnox shows us the simple steps needed to erect their fences.

Farm smartly!

Du Preez de Villiers dupreez@proagri.co.za

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19

25

3

Advice from Tiger Feeds: Part 3: The importance of poultry health

5

Green Energy foresees solar powered farms

9

Novatek discusses trace minerals for cattle

11

Sheep farming made easy: Part 8

14

Aquaponics Part 2. Why aquaponics?

16

Erect Bonnox like this: Eleven easy steps to success

19

Exciting news for farmers: Jupidex plants its feet in Zambia

21

Bednar equipment makes short shrift of tough soil

23

Understand the link between ETG and Zambian Fertilizers

25

Spray to protect your crops: Part 8

31

Make more from your crops: Processing of oil seeds: Part 8

35

The ABC of fish farming: Part 2: Feed management

ProAgri Zambia 32

sprayers raise the bar

Peake Equipment is the legendary agricultural manufacturer who builds the only self-propelled sprayer in Southern Africa. The STS 5000 is driven by a 216 kW, turbo-charged Cummins QSB engine and is in constant 4-wheel drive. The steel constructed boom can be up to 36 m wide and is placed in front of the cab for easy monitoring. Contact them at: donald@peakeequipment.co.za

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 © 2018. 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 and Distribution Zambia Quintus Grobler > +26-(0)96-216-9801 (WA only) South Africa + 27-078-978-6339 quintus@proagri.co.za Reporters Annemarie Bremner > +27 82-320-3642 annemarie@proagri.co.za Benine Ackermann > +27 73-105-6938 benine@proagri.co.za Senior Production Manager: Zainab Pandor > +26 (0)97-769-9786 zainab@proagri.co.za Marketing Xander Pieterse > +27 79-524-0934 xander@proagri.co.za Tiny Smith > +27 79-531-0024 tiny@proagri.co.za Adele van Tonder > +27 81-799-6975 adele@proagri.co.za Lindie Botha > +27 61-650-5704 lindie@proagri.co.za Design Christiaan Joubert > christiaan@proagri.co.za Enquiries Engela Botha > +27 12-803-0667 engela@proagri.co.za Accounts Ronel Keet > +27 12-803-0667 accounts@proagri.co.za Business Manager George Grobler

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and

ASTRAL

A successful disease control programme should incorporate three principal goals, namely: • Reduce exposure to disease organisms by good hygiene and stress management.

• Increase the birds’ resistance to disease by applying recommended vaccination/immunisation procedures.

• Treat disease outbreaks with specific medications that are effective against the disease being treated.

by Given Hamanungu, Tiger Technical Advisor You worked very hard to produce exquisite poultry and eggs. Don’t ruin your venture by ignoring disease-causing factors.

Advice from Tiger Feeds:

Part 3: The importance of poultry health D

iseases have consistently been a major restrictive factor to profitable production. How does disease enter your flock in the first place? Well, disease prevention focuses primarily on committed planning and sound management practices that keep infectious diseases out and stop non-infectious diseases before they start. With this attitude in mind, you place emphasis on planning and expenditures or disease prevention rather than on short-term savings and stop-gap treatments.

Failure to concentrate on planned disease prevention often leads to disease outbreaks and, as a result, personal frustration and sometimes devastating financial losses.

Disease results when exposure combined with virulence of an organism is greater than the resistance of the host (bird). These diseases can be brought into the poultry house by vectors such as wild birds, rodents, parasites, and even the poultry man.

Most diseases can be eradicated from the poultry flock by applying the basic principles of hygiene coupled with a good vaccination programme and proper application procedures.

Disinfecting the poultry house (including cages) helps reduce the exposure time and number of organisms.

Vaccinating your flock aids in improving the natural resistance or immunity of the birds.

Medications and drugs assist in fighting disease organisms after they have plagued the birds’ natural defences.

It is fundamentally a mental attitude that recognises the omnipresent risk of disease and the fact that disease prevention does not cost; it pays, and many times over. A flock receiving good health security management is a delight, and a source of both pride and profit.

Effective bio-security on a chicken farm will make the difference between failure and success.

Rodents are just as bad for chickens as they are for humans. Keep them far away from your disease sensitive poultry.

Bloated veterinarian expenses are something to avoid at all costs. The only counter measure for that is vaccinations and implementing basic rules to keep your chickens healthy.

ProAgri Zambia 32

For exquisite and professional advice and service in the chicken industry, contact Rowena Blanco at +260-96-7991-847 or +260-967790-404 or e-mail rowena@tigerfeeds.com.zm. You may also visit their user-friendly website at www.tigerfeeds.com.

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ProAgri Zambia 32

Green Energy foresees solar powered farms

by Du Preez de Villiers

Any farmer yearns for a complete solar system to put a stamp on his independent nature. Photo: paradisesolarenergy.com

P

eace of mind, independence and uninterrupted production are some of the benefits a farmer can reap from the ability to generate his own electricity.

Initially, it may be expensive to establish such a system, and it may require a bit of administration and sweat to get it going, but in the long run the ability to provide your own power is the best gift you can give yourself. The ample amount of sunlight shining down on this continent is more than enough to fully utilise solar power.

Power interruptions are not an unfamiliar occurrence for the Zambian farmer. Zambia depends heavily on hydroelectric power which, in turn, depends on sufficient rain and water. It cannot operate through long, dry spells which we experienced a few years ago.

This is just another reason to invest in your own electricity supply, which will give you more reliable power.

Many companies in Zambia saw the opportunity presented by renewable energy and started to penetrate the industry, but meaningful and sustainable power generation demands specialised skills and expertise. The directors of Green Energy Distributors already have almost two decades of experience in this field. This is important, because a farmer needs to rely heavily on

Green Energy Distributors can turn your pump station or borehole into an efficient, self-operating water supply system with solar power.

Photo: tesotechservices.com expertise and experience when he spends a huge amount of money on a delicate system which should last a lifetime. Your supplier must be able to give you the best advice and to anticipate and fix problems. In this industry, chancers and fly-by-nights will never last for almost twenty years.

Green Energy Distributors opened in Zambia early in 2017 under the management of professionals in the solar industry. They offer a comprehensive range of solar, electrical and LED lighting products.

Green Energy knows that the Allow Green Energy Distributors to light up your path towards solar electricity. Photo: daimaenergy.com

agricultural sector is alive and growing and therefore decided to focus largely on the renewable electricity needs of farmers.

“We concentrate on helping farmers achieve the transition into year round farming and reduce their running costs by providing them with quality and affordable solar products,” Fardeen Zumla, a director of Green Energy Distributors, says.

Green Energy Distributors are proud of their understanding of the importance of after sales service, and employ qualified field agents ready to assist farmers all over the country.

The top products and services offered

by Green Energy Distributors are: •

•

• •

• •

Complete solar solutions. A solar specialist visits you on the farm to determine your needs and follows the project up to completion.

Solar water pumping systems.

Boreholes and pumping stations are nice to have, but laying the necessary power cables is always expensive and difficult - except if you install a solar power system.

Electrical components for farms, water pumping and other electrical requirements.

LED spotlights are vital for farm security. They save electricity and promise to last much longer than other globes.

LED street lights mean less labour and improved cost efficiency on large farms.

Solar street lights work with batteries that are charged by the sun during the day and give light during the night.

Contact Fardeen Zumla at +26(0)96-786-3949 or send an e-mail to greenenergy.zm@gmail.com to acquire your own source of solar power.

ProAgri Zambia 32

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ProAgri Zambia 32

Neria’s Investments Limited Agro Commodity Traders

Quality Fertilizer Urea & D-Compound

NERIA INVESTMENTS LIMITED Saturnis House, Opp. Ndeke Hotel Longacre’s Tel: +260 211 244 505/6 Email: info@neriainvestments.com www.neriainvestments.com

Technical Services

Livestock advisory services in: Veterinary Agro Chemical Fencing Fish Farming

Artifical Insemination Nutrition Lab Diagnostic Services Livestock Production Training

Products

Poultry vaccines and antimicrobials | Poultry equipment and egg trays | Cattle vaccines and antimicrobials | Dips and dewromers | Semen for Dairy cattle | Specialised veterinary products | Milking equipment | Pet and horse products | Finished stock feed | Stock feed ingredients | Protective clothing | Fencing material | Wire and poles | Crates | Fertiliser | Seeds | Seed trays and growing medium | Bailing twine | Crop chemicals | Pest control products | Water tanks and pipes | Livestock handling equipment | Livestock equipment and instruments Physical Address: Livestock Services, Pamodzi Highway, Off Nangwenya Road, Showgrounds Telephone: 254024, 254497 and 254498 or 0975 474119 and 0969 635407

ProAgri Zambia 32

7

Trace minerals for cattle

by Wiehan Visagie

Your cattle do not know the trace mineral status of the grazing they are feeding on. Do you?

Z

ambian calf producers have been faced with extremely volatile weather patterns over the past ten months, especially with the late rainfall in February.

Thus, even if the calf price is good, success on a cattle farm is difficult to achieve at present. From a sustainable farming perspective, the best way to improve profitability is to reduce the overall cost on the farm without negatively affecting performance. Farmers will be able to achieve this goal when they manage the requirement of specific trace minerals in cattle feed, and subsequently shift their focus towards the reproduction of the herd.

So, let us have a closer look at how to manage trace minerals on a cattle farm.

The most important trace minerals You may argue that mineral deficiencies do not exist, but newly published research shows that when cow performance declines, the cow is already experiencing mineral deficiencies.

According to the research, supplemen-ted zinc, for example, helps to retain nitrogen and is therefore critical in the biological growth of young animals.

Beef cattle farmers need to know

Zinc (Zn) is one of the vital essential trace elements for grazing cattle.

ProAgri Zambia 32

the trace minerals status of their farm and how to supplement accordingly to avoid deficiencies. For grazing cattle, there are at least ten essential trace minerals identified but only four are vital: selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu) and manganese (Mn).

Challenges among trace minerals Many forages in Zambia contain minerals that are antagonists, meaning that they block the absorption or function of other vital minerals. When forages contain, for example, molybdenum (Mo) in combination with either copper (Cu) or sulphur (S), they tend to form a complex that prevents absorption within the animal that ultimately leads to mineral imbalance and deficiency.

To make the situation even more complicated, trace minerals are in general poorly absorbed by beef cattle; only 5 to 10% eventually gets absorbed in the body of the animal. There are many factors affecting the efficiency of trace mineral absorption. This could be related to stress periods or the stage of reproduction. As an example, the manganese (Mn) requirement for feedlot cattle is 20 ppm per animal per day, but gestating and early lactating cattle need twice as much (40 ppm).

Practical guidelines Cattle, by nature, are not able to voluntarily determine which minerals they are lacking. Neither are they able to modify their consumption behaviour based on their own physiological needs.

When we feed the animals loose and freechoice mineral mixes, the availability of the minerals is dependent on voluntary intake.

The best way to manage daily consumption is to add loose salt or to move the mineral feeders away from

the water troughs. Farmers can also reduce the frequency of filling the mineral feeders.

Final advice When farmers decide to supplement trace minerals, they should be aware that the requirements may vary during the year. The amount of calcium needed, for instance, can decline over the summer months, so the mineral mix must be changed accordingly. There is, however, no fool-proof method for supplementing minerals. The best way would be to follow the label recommendations.

Feedlots can distribute the minerals daily as they have the opportunity to mix them on a daily basis, but grazing cattle do not have that luxury. These animals might only be supplemented once or twice a week. Luckily, cattle do have the ability to store minerals in their livers, so farmers can place a week’s ration out in the field without causing deficiencies.

Recommendations before buying and using any supplement: • Take time to assess your herd’s mineral status (calving distribution; calf health; nutrient, blood and liver-tissue analysis).

• Test the mineral content of the feed and determine the intake in relation to the animals’ requirements.

• Work with your local Novatek Technical Advisor or Nutritionist to develop a mineral programme that is optimal for your herd and your management plan.

• Always follow the label guidelines for mineral supplements and monitor consumption.

Do not risk the financial consequences of an inadequate mineral programme.

Please feel free to contact Wiehan Visagie at wiehanv@novatek.co.zm or Marné Meyer at nutritionist@novatek.co.zm for all information on feeding and feeds.

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ProAgri Zambia 32

Sheep farming made easy Part 8: Feed handling and distribution

With a few calculations, you can determine the size needed for your raw materials and mixing area.

A

nimal feed is very sensitive to contamination and can easily go off when care is not taken in the storing and mixing process. Insects, microbes, plant rests, but also crop chemicals, can cause livestock losses. Therefore, the feed processing area will have a significant influence on the choice of the sheep handling site.

We thank the ARC Institute for Agricultural Engineering in South Africa for making their manual on sheep production and facilities available to the readers of ProAgri Zambia.

•

• • • •

It must be close to the housing area to cut out unnecessary shifting of materials.

The facility must be planned in such a way that future expansion is possible.

Existing equipment and buildings can be used successfully.

Dust from die milling and mixing processes can be very annoying if

•

•

The sophistication of the feed provisioning system will be determined by: •

Feed handling and distribution Important points to consider for the placing and planning of the feed handling area include:

prevailing wind directions are not considered when planning where to place the facility relative to the houses, work areas and animal housing facilities.

Other important considerations include the availability of water and electricity as well as existing and envisioned access routes.

•

•

Size of the unit: As the unit expands, management becomes more difficult and the designer should consider a completely mechanised feed provisioning system.

Type of production system: The type of production system determines how grazing (natural or planted) is included in the feed provisioning programme. The more intensive the system, the larger the storage capacity of the system must be to provide the feeding requirements.

Availability and dependability of labour: The mechanisation level of the

ProAgri Zambia 32

•

feed handling and provisioning system will increase as the risks concerning the labour source increase.

Managerial capabilities: The mechanisation level of the system must adapt to the capabilities and requirements of the user.

Costs: As the mechanisation level increases, the costs will increase, and the final design will mainly be determined by the financial resources and the intensity and expected profitability of the production system.

Equipment: Although the equipment component has a significant influence on the cost of the system and is also largely determined by the cost, the availability, maintenance and required technical capabilities will also have a determining influence on the choice of equipment.

Type of ration: The type of rationing used, as well as the manageability thereof, will dictate the distribution methods. This way, a ration with a large coarse fodder 11

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ProAgri Zambia 32

1169ProAgriZ

Made in South Africa

Type of feed

Volume storage space needed per sheep for a 3-month period (m3)

Baled hay

0,48

Concentrates

0,24

Straw

0,54

Table1: Required storage space for feed Material

Density (kg/m3)

Blood-meal

480 - 670

Bone meal

770

Grass hay in stacks

70

hay - baled

110

hay - ground (coarse)

70

hay - ground (fine)

190

Wheat meal

480

bran

190

straw in stacks

50 - 60

straw - baled

240 - 260

Lucerne hay in stacks

75-85

hay - baled

90

hay - ground (coarse)

70

hay - ground (fine)

210

meal

270 - 350

grains

650 - 730

Maize threshed

720 - 820

meal

640

cobs - ground (Kernels, leaves and stalks)

300 - 350

crushed

300

bran

210

residue - baled

95

residue - ground (coarse)

55

residue - ground (fine)

100

Oileake meal cotton

590 - 640

linseed

720 - 800

groundnuts

610

component will be easily transported by feed trailers, while augers and conveyor belts can be used for the distribution of concentrates. The ration combination will also determine the method of storage and the storage space required.

• Frequency of provision: The use of self-feeder units will reduce the labour requirements for feed provision, but this can handicap the control over feed.

Feed storage space The storage space will be determined by the number of different rations, the type of feed or ration combination and the period that the feed must be stored. Initial calculations can be done, using table 1.

The required storage period can vary from place to place, between feed types and as the availability of feed changes. To obtain reasonably accurate calculated results, the specific ration combination must be known. The period for which each feed type must be stored, the amount and therefore the volume of storage space can then be determined accurately. See Table 2 for more details concerning mass densities. As an example, if five tonnes of threshed maize have to be stored, the required storage volume is 5 000 kg/720 kg = 6,94 m³ + 10% unforeseen = 7,6 m³.

Next month we shall look at storage methods for feed.

Published with acknowledgement to the ARC Institute for Agricultural Engineering for the use of their Sheep Facilities Manual.

Visit www.arc.agric.za for more information.

NoseRing

®

• Wean with ease • No stress • Next to the mother

Soya meal

530 - 670

ground

400 - 540

Feed mixtures rams and ewes

565

winter supplements

635

complete ration

345

Fish meal

625

Table2: Densities of typical feed materials. *Coarse refers to a hammer mill sieve size of 25 mm and fine to a sieve size of 1,6 mm.

ProAgri Zambia 32

Whole Concepts cc PO Box 1806, Vryburg,8600, South Africa

Tel: +27 (0)53 927 4999 Cell: +27 (0)82 459 9451 E-mail: judy@nosering.co.za www.nosering.co.za

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Aquaponics 2:

Hydroponics

Why aquaponics?

Hydroponics refers to the cultivation of plants in water.

Last month we started this series looking at factors you need to consider before starting with aquaponics. In this issue we answer the question:

Chemical nutrients are used in hydroponics.

Why aquaponics?

What makes it different to or better than hydroponics? Also, what is the difference between using fish in aquaponics and a traditional aquaculture system?

Bacterial growth is inhibited in hydroponics.

Difference between aquaponics and hydroponics: Aquaponics is a highly sustainable method of agriculture; mainly because it is a self-contained ecosystem that mirrors nature. Contrary to hydroponics, aquaponics does not need the addition of chemical nutrients for the plants, as the fish waste provides these nutrients to the plants.

Hydroponic systems are maintained at low temperatures, inhibiting the bacterial growth.

Hydroponic systems are quicker to start producing as all the nutrients can be added from the beginning.

Hydroponic systems should be unloaded after a certain period due to the build-up of sludge and toxic chemicals.

Hydroponic nutrient dosing

NFT sysytem

Growing methods

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Dutch buckets

Definition

Aquaponics refers to the cultivation of fish and plants in a looped system.

Types of nutrients

Organic matter produced by fish waste is used as nutrients in aquaponics.

Bacteria

Bacterial growth is used in the production of nutrients from the fish waste.

Temperature

Start-up speed

System unloading and cleaning

Aquaponic systems are maintained at temperatures that induce the growth of bacteria.

Aquaponic systems are slower to start producing as they need to be cycled up through natural processes.

As natural nutrients are used in aquaponic systems, the replacement of water in the system is not required.

Aquaponic systems may have a slower start than hydroponics but will perform better once the system is in balance. Productivity is dependent on the overall health of the system and the balance between fish and plants.

Hydroponic systems will start off being more productive for the first few months. Productivity is directly related to the consistent application of precisely measured doses of nutrients.

Productivity

Every type of plant needs its own mix of nutrients, therefore only one type is planted at a time.

Types of plants

A multitude of leafy and fruit bearing plants can grow together in the same system using the same recirculating water.

Usually in hydroponics only one growing method is used, it may be gutters using NFT (nutrient film technique), Dutch buckets with ebb and flow or DWC (deep water culture) with floating rafts.

Growing methods

In aquaponics different systems are often used in combination, with auto syphon gravel beds adding to the filtration system, before water flows through the DWC.

Hydroponic systems need intensive management compared to aquaponics.

Ease of maintenance

If water is to be re-used it must first be cleaned and treated to remove remaining nutrients.

Floating rafts

Aquaponics:

If a gutter system is used, power cuts without back-up power supply will be fatal.

Power is needed for the water flow and dosing of nutrients.

Water use

Power use

Aquaponic systems are easy to maintain once in balance.

The only water that has to be replaced is water lost through evaporation or plant use.

A well-designed system should use only one water pump and one air pump and should be able to survive limited power outages if the system is big enough.

ProAgri Zambia 32

Difference between traditional aquaculture and aquaponics: Compared to aquaculture, aquaponics systems do not have a build-up of wastes in the system that causes the

water to become toxic. Aquaponic systems utilise this waste, with the bacteria converting the ammonia into nitrites and nitrates, which the plants then consume as their main nutrient source.

Aquaculture Aquaculture is the farming of aquatic organisms such as fish and shellfish for consumption and can refer to the cultivation of both marine and freshwater species in land-based or openocean production.

Up to a third of the water in a closed aquaculture system needs to be replaced every week due to the build-up of ammonia and fish waste.

The water temperature can be maintained for the specific species, such as warm water (28˚C) for tilapia and cold water (12 - 14˚C) for trout.

Aquaponics Definition

Aquaponics is the symbiotic cultivation of plants and aquatic animals in a recirculating environment emulating a natural bio-system.

Water use

The water should never be replaced as it is filtered and cleaned by the good bacteria and plants in the system.

Temperature

The temperature needs of the plants should also be considered and a balance should be reached to keep the fish and plants happy. Generally, plants like 23˚C, which will be fine for tilapia.

Aquaculture

Tilapia A tilapia needs 1% of its body weight in feed every day. The better the quality of the feed, the better the production and taste.

About 22 grown tilapias per 1 000 litres is the norm.

Water quality should be managed intensively.

Production

Ease of maintenance

Conclusion Hydroponics and aquaponics are two types of methods used in agriculture to grow plants on water. Chemical nutrients are used in the form of fertilisers in hydroponics, while fish waste is used as the source of plant nutrients in aquaponics. The main difference between hydroponics and aquaponics is the type of nutrients used in each method.

Primary benefits of aquaponics are: • Aquaponics use 90% less water to grow the same amount of vegetables as in any other growing system.

• No water goes to waste. The water is continually recirculated.

• Aquaponic systems can be built on non-arable land that can’t be used for conventional agriculture; therefore cheaper land.

ProAgri Zambia 32

The need stays the same and ultimately the nutrients in the fish feed will also be utilised by the plants.

Fish feed

Up to 150 tilapias per 1 000 litres will be quite happy in aquaponics because clean water continuously circulates through the dam.

Fish feed pellets

Once the system is in balance, management is easy.

• Fish is part of the equation – the fish convert the fish food and provide the nutrients and ammonia. The fish is sold once they reach market weight, covering the running costs.

• Vegetables in the DWC system are harvested daily with new plants also being transplanted daily, providing a steady cash flow from the start.

• Systems can be erected close to cities, highways and the market, saving a lot on transport costs.

• There is a growing demand for healthy food produced without chemical fertilisers, herbicides and pesticides.

Aquaponics is the answer.

Statistics of aquaponics compared to traditional farming are: Reduced water usage – up to 90% Increased yields – up to 30% Accelerated plant growth – up to 200%

Aquaponics fish tank

Sources: https://hydrotower.org/2018/06/24/ why-aquaponics/ http://pediaa.com/difference-between-hydroponics-and-aquaponics/ Kleinskuur Aquaponics Training Manual; Introduction to Aquaponics, 2017, Bremner, CD & Bremner, A.

15

Erect Bonnox like this:

5. As soon as the concrete is well set, the wire may be unrolled.

Eleven steps to success

Step 5 6. Cut out the vertical wires for about half a metre from each end of the fence, and firmly tie the horizontal wires to one straining post, starting from the bottom. The lowest wire should be just above the ground. Finish it off neatly with a true Bonnox twist (hinge joint).

4. Drive in your Y-posts 10 metres apart next to the plumb line. They may also be placed closer to one another for an even firmer fence.

Make sure the posts are upright and the same height. Remember, you need no extra droppers, as the vertical wires will keep the fence upright and firm.

Step 1 1.

O

rder from the friendly people at Bonnox, because then you will get genuine Bonnox fencing, and they will help you to obtain the correct posts, binding wire and tools to do the job.

2. Measure your fence in sections of 98 metres to provide for tying the ends to the post and put up a plumb line to erect a straight fence.

3. Secure the corner and straining posts firmly and deeply into concrete; 750 to 800 mm deep. It is a good idea to cast the concrete wider towards the bottom for improved anchorage. Holes for securing the props at the correct angle are already drilled into the straining posts supplied by Bonnox. Should you use your own posts, make sure that the angle with the ground level does not exceed 35Ëš. The props are also anchored in concrete.

16

Step 4

Step 6 7. With the rest of the fence still lying flat on the ground, neatly attach a clamp about 1,5 metres from the opposite straining post next to a vertical wire along the whole height of the fence. You can make your own clamp from two I-beams, or simply purchase one from Bonnox.

Step 7

ProAgri Zambia 32

Step 8 8. Now attach two or three fence strainers to the clamp and the straining post and start straining the fence.

9. It helps to place two or three workers at intervals to lift and shake the fence while straining it. This will ensure uniformity and more efficient straining.

11. Now the wire strainers can be removed and the horizontal wires can be secured to the Y-standards.

This is done in the following way: Tie the top, bottom and every second line wire by bending the binding wire through the hole in the y-standard and bend it around the horizontal wire, bringing it back to the front before twisting it with pliers. Tip: Cut all the tying wires to the right length before you start in order to expedite the work.

And presto! Your fence is complete and fit to serve for years.

Step 9 10. When the horizontal wires are properly strained, you can wind the ends of the horizontal wires around the straining post and once again fasten them with the neat Bonnox twist. The purpose of the kink is to provide play for temperature induced expansion and contraction, and to absorb the impact, should an animal run into the fence.

Step 10

Step 11

ProAgri Zambia 32

For your fencing needs, call +27(0) 76-169-9068, +27(0) 72-704-8764, +27(0) 81 865 4543 or e-mail linda@bonnox.co.za, gerda@bonnox.co.za or zane@bonnox.co.za.

Also visit their website at www.bonnox.co.za.

17

JUPIDEX – for the professional farmer!

Jupidex is a company with its origins deeply rooted in agriculture. After Kverneland SA’s inception into the Plennegy group, and rebirth as Jupidex, the range on offer grew exponentially to include many more leading brands available to the SA farmer. Jupidex has a dealer network of more than 90 service centres, and a top notch aftersales service supports each product sold.

CONTACT DETAILS 18

Stand 26594A Kafue Road Lusaka

NOW OPEN IN ZAMBIA

Tel: +260 977 435681 chinso.chipopola@jupidex.co.za

ProAgri Zambia 32

Left: The excitement from the Jupidex-team in South Africa and Zambia will spill over into excellent client service in their new branch in Lusaka.

by Limose Musungu

Exciting news for farmers:

Jupidex plants its feet in Zambia I

t is very exciting to dream about quality, world-renowned agricultural equipment crisscrossing your farm, but if there is nobody to service or make it available to you, your dream might end up in a hopeless nightmare. An agricultural company who is serious about business and client support knows that they need to be present where the farmer can get access to them in an instant.

Jupidex previously dealt with their Zambian farmers from South Africa via other agents, but they recently took the bold move to open a branch in Lusaka to improve their service even more. Their distribution centre is located in Kafue road, near Makeni Mall, and is easily accessible.

Jupidex (Pty) Ltd is the market leader in South Africa regarding distribution of soil preparation equipment and trailed mowers. The company’s mission is to supply superior quality, affordable agricultural equipment and after-market spare parts with exceptional service to all its customers.

The Chairman of the Plennegy group, Michael Yeadon, says: “Some of our products have over the years found their way to Zambia via different dealers, but with Jupidex Zambia, we shall not only make available the full range of these superior products, we

shall also stock parts and have dedicated specialist people to support the products. Experienced and welcoming staff will always be on hand to assist customers, and to repair the machinery, whenever a need may arise.”

Jupidex is part of the Plennegy group, which became famous for their Pannar and Starke Ayres seed cultivation, Mascor dealerships for tractors and vehicle brands, as well as their diversification that includes aviation, courier services, forestry, education and other activities.

Although their roots are in South Africa, the group’s activities extend deep into Africa, right up to Nigeria.

Their brands include the Norwegian Kverneland - without a doubt one of the most robust soil engagement implement manufacturers in the world. They only use the very best special steel and use advanced metallurgic hardening processes

to create super steel that withstands shocks and lasts much longer than that used for ordinary machines. One of their other prominent brands is the tough Irish McHale balers. They also supply Fede, Agri-Spread, Vicon, Alpler and other superb equipment brands.

Jupidex representative, Piet Vorster, says: “Precision farming is the key to optimise production and Kverneland and Vicon is on the forefront with ISOBUS and GPS linked operations.”

Jupidex also took the lead in the use of data electronics to take the pain out of manuals and part identification with the implementation of easy scannable QR codes.

Piet explains why the company has been very successful over the years: “For us, client service is not negotiable.

On top of that, we maintain high quality, move with technology and maintain very high standards next to none. We do not compromise. Loyalty to customers, building relationships and supporting customers come first. The future of a Zambian farmer lies in good infrastructure and equipment. Our products are good for both commercial and smallscale farmers.”

The Managing Director of Jupidex, Koot van der Merwe, says: “We are constantly reinvesting in order to improve the technology we offer. The challenge is to keep it affordable to our end user.

We want to increase the level of service in Zambia and that is our vision, we are determined to do so. We have technology that can support farming in Zambia.”

The Jupidex Lusaka branch also stocks a large amount of expendable parts and farmers are welcome to visit - regardless of whether they are existing customers or just want to have a look. The range of products is so exceptional - it is a must see and a must have.

The equipment of world-renowned implement brands like Alpler from Turkey, McHale from Ireland and Kverneland from Norway is ready for shipment at the Jupidex Zambia branch in Lusaka.

For more information, or to become a Jupidex-farmer, contact Chinso Chipopola on +260-977-435681 or e-mail him at chinso.chipopola@jupidex.co.za.

ProAgri Zambia 32

19

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www.bednar-machinery.com

Barry Hutchinson (ZM) +260 21 122 4918 (ZM) +260 96 802 2320 BHutchinson@bhbw.co.zm

Bednar Africa Pty Ltd 4 Barret Street, Frankfort, Freestate Tel: (RZA) +27(0) 71 657 8507 Fax: 086 480 6134

BEDNAR FMT is a progressive manufacturer of agricultural machinery with specialization on production of machines for tillage, seeding, fertilising and slashing. Due to the close and strong relationship with farmers BEDNAR FMT ranks among the most innovative manufacturers developing and producing machines with good values reducing costs to the farmers.

BEDNAR FMT s.r.o. was founded in 1997 by Msc. LadislavBednรกล .

20

ProAgri Zambia 32

Bednar equipment makes short shrift of tough soil

by Du Preez de Villiers

V

ertical tillage is an excellent approach, but in hard turf soils it can quite easily become a headache for farmers.

Bednar Africa solved this problem by importing Bednar equipment, developed for Eastern Europe, to Southern Africa. “We import the Bednar equipment from the Czech Republic and assemble it in our factory in Frankfort in the Free State province of South Africa, from where we distribute it through a dealer network,” says Frikkie Hefer, Business and Marketing Director of Bednar Africa. He and Michael de Klerk are the owners of Bednar Africa.

“This is our fourth year of existence in Southern Africa. Bednar Africa is the sole importer of Bednar machines for Africa all the way up north to Nigeria,” Frikkie says.

“The reason why we chose Bednar is because they build wide machines and when you build wide machines, you automatically build heavy machines with stronger frames than those of lighter implements coming from Western Europe. In the east of Europe, you will find a lot of turf and heavy soil, and the challenges are very similar to ours. The other reason is that they build machines that are able to work deep. Now, we have a whole range of products that can work from shallow to deep and from 3 to 18 meters wide,” says Frikkie.

Bednar is a family business in Rychnov nad Kněžnou, owned by the Bednářs, a father and two sons. All three have doctorates in Agriculture.

They started manufacturing the implements themselves after they could not find suppliers with suitable equipment for their region.

These golden yellow tools attracted a lot of attention this year when they proved their worth during the famous and popular Val Farmers’ day.

Contact Frikkie Hefer at 060-976-2200 or frikkie@bednar-machinery.co.za, or Werner Strydom at 082-797-2441 or werner@bednar-machinery.co.za.

Also visit their website www.bednar-machinery.com.

ProAgri Zambia 32

The Atlas HO 6000 towed cultivator is heavy, short and compact, but will not compact the ground; it will rather consolidate it. This cultivator is built for heavy and dry soil. It cuts and incorporates crop residues up to 18 cm below the surface and crumbles it up thoroughly and ready for the next process. “X-precise” and “Cross Control” are the names of the features that control the x-shaped disc section in front. This changes the angle of the discs continuously so that they follow in the tracks of the tractor’s wheels. An integrated axis ensures that the implement remains stable, even at its high working speed or through a small turning circle.

The rear pressure wheels can be adjusted for different soil conditions.

For an excellent chisel plough, a farmer needs to look no further than the Terraland TN 4000 HD9R Profi. Two rows of chisels, two tined rollers and two rows of discs work together to prepare the soil for planting. The front chisels loosen the soil to break up stratified layers, while stover is effectively mixed into the soil. Finally, the rollers and cutting discs work together to crumble the clods and form a smooth and consolidated seedbed.

The Terraland TO 5000 HM will stand its ground if a farmer wants to loosen and cultivate his soil up to 55 cm deep. Two rows of chisels in front are up to the hardest, heaviest soil types and large clods and plant material can pass underneath the 79 cm high frame before the two rollers at the back create a smooth seedbed.

Four beams form the construction of the central frame and the transport axis is placed between the two wings so that the rollers can be lifted when working in very wet conditions. A quick chisel change system makes it very easy to replace the chisels.

21

22

ProAgri Zambia 32

Understand the link between ETG Inputs Zambia Ltd and Zambian Fertilizers Ltd:

by Du Preez de Villiers

E

TG is famous in Zambia for supplying a wide variety of crop farming inputs and livestock products to farmers. ETG set foot in Zambia in 2003 and since then, the company has structured a business operation to support the whole agricultural value chain.

This has been made possible through specialised companies within the ETG group from agricultural inputs supply, commodity buying and processing into finished products.

This structure is meant to support smallholder farmer production, access to markets for commodities, adding value and increased consumption of local products with job creation overall.

Every serious farmer knows about ETG, because ETG is synonymous with good yields.

ETG Agri Inputs Zambia Ltd is part of the ETG Inputs Holding Co Ltd headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. In Zambia, the Fertilizer and Agri Inputs vertical of ETG is operating as ETG Inputs Zambia Ltd, a company registered in Zambia and located on Plot No 8087, Chinika, off Mumbwa Road, Lusaka, Zambia. The Fertilizer and Agri Inputs vertical in Zambia covers Zambian Fertilizers Ltd as a subsidiary of ETG Inputs Zambia Ltd, as well as Farmarama and is managed by the same Zambia senior management team in Lusaka.

ETG Agrochemicals Apart from fertilisers, ETG supplies agro-chemicals including herbicides, insecticides (synthetics and botanical) fungicides, grain protectors/fumigants and animal dip.

Zambian Fertilizers Meanwhile, Zambian Fertilizers Ltd Company was originally established within Zambia in June, 2004. It was operating independently and later became a subsidiary of ETG Inputs Zambia Ltd in Zambia. Since then, Zambian Fertilizers Ltd Brand has been trading under ETG Inputs Zambia Ltd. It specialises in blended fertilisers, which incorporate nine vital nutrients for most soil types.

The primary elements and micro-nutrients are blended ProAgri Zambia 32

to meet specific needs of the customers before being bagged and distributed to customers through ETG’s extensive two-way supply chain. Under the Zambian Fertilizers Brand, ETG Inputs Zambia Ltd produces blended fertilisers which are; • crop specific; • soil specific; • lime enriched; and • organic matter enriched.

The blended fertilisers are produced at their recently established plant in the Lusaka South Multi-Facility Economic Zone situated on Plot F10723, Chifwema Road.

ETG Inputs Zambia Ltd also deals in other renowned fertiliser brands, to wit Falcon and Kynoch.

Falcon Under the Falcon brand, ETG supplies nitrogen fertiliser, urea (prilled/granular), calcium ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulphate, phosphate fertiliser, di-ammonium phosphate, single super phosphate, triple super phosphate, mono ammonium phosphate, potash fertiliser, muriate of potash and sulphate of potash.

Kynoch In 2014, the group acquired Kynoch Fertilizer; a well-established household South African brand which manufactures and distributes products throughout the Southern African region.

Kynoch has added significant capacity and expertise to the group, particularly for meeting largescale commercial farmers’ requirements.

It blends a wide range of fertilisers and agro-chemicals along with offering specialised agronomy services. Under the Kynoch brand, ETG produces specialised crop growth fertilisers: Soya Oemff, Veggie Oemff, Wheat Oemff, Mielie Oemff, Kyno Pop, Kyno plus Urea, Sugar Oemff, Pasture Oemff and CAN. ETG Inputs Zambia Ltd/Zambian Fertilizers Ltd distribution network The Small-Scale Supply Chain is the biggest operation the company is undertaking, covering over 45 depots countrywide. At their head office, the Small Scale Business is headed by Business Development Managers.

From head office, the business is divided into regions namely: Southern Province, Eastern Province, Central/ Copperbelt/North-Western Provinces, Western Province, Lusaka Province and Muchinga/Northern/Luapula Provinces, each headed by a regional manager. The regions consist of a number of depots each. The regional managers are supported by staff in the depots comprising a depot manager, sales assistant and field extension officer.

ETG Inputs Zambia Ltd, together with its subsidiary, Zambian Fertilizers Ltd, continues to expand and increase support to the agricultural sector in the country through its many agricultural related activities.

The names of the expert sales agronomists from ETG Inputs Zambia Ltd Chinika and their contact details are: Siankoni Zulu – 097-747-7536 Peter Malisawa – 096-428-9523 Richard Chisenga – 096-983-3407 23

P L A N T CATALYST

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ProAgri Zambia 32

Spray to protect your crops Part 8: Uneven and even spraying

Compiled by J Fuls (Pr Eng)

N

ozzle designers came up with a nifty idea to prevent double spraying when the sides of the spray path overlap, by designing an uneven spray nozzle.

We thank the ARC Institute for Agricultural Engineering in South Africa, who made this article available to the readers of ProAgri Zambia.

In between the rows, the application will then be uneven:

Uneven spray nozzle The reason why uneven spray nozzles are available is: Suppose we use an even spray nozzle to spray weeds over the total field. To walk in a straight line is difficult, so the area sprayed may look like this:

By using an even spray nozzle, we can again get an even spray between the rows. Because the plants serve as markers, an accurate spacing is also possible, and we do not need to overlap the passes:

It is not possible to see in the field where you have sprayed at the previous pass. In some places you will get an overlap, like the dark areas, while in some places there will be no spray, like the blank areas.

If you now walk closer on the return pass, to prevent missing some areas, a lot of chemicals get wasted by large double spraying like this:

With an uneven spray nozzle, the idea is to walk on the edge of the covered area of the previous pass. This means that re-spraying is done on half of the area that you have covered during the previous pass.

But remember that this nozzle sprays less to the sides than in the centre. If we were to set out glasses right across the two passes, the glasses will be filled like in the following picture, if we could walk right on the edge of the first pass: We now have an even spray where we did the double spraying. If we now don’t walk so accurate, the amount of overspraying or under-spraying will not be so serious.

So, when we want to spray weeds over the whole area, the uneven spray nozzle is the right one to use. Just remember that the sprays should overlap by half the total width of the nozzle spray.

Even spray nozzle There is, however, an application for the even spray nozzle: If we want to spray weeds between crop rows using the uneven spray nozzle, it is not possible to do the overlap spray, because the plants will be in the way.

The spray is going to land on the crops.

ProAgri Zambia 32

25

Perfect Solutions for irrigation management

Enquire about Agriplas products at your nearest irrigation dealer

26

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www.agriplas.co.za MPUMALANGA Suite 63, Postnet X 11326, Nelspruit 1200 Tel: +27 13 755 3510 Fax: +27 13 755 ProAgri 3505 Zambia 32

How to walk in the field If you can’t see the stubbles of the previous season, mark out lines with string, to the width that you are going to plant.

(Keep these strings, as it may serve as row marks when planting.)

Fill the knapsack sprayer with clean water. Now determine how high you must hold the nozzle above the ground, so that the spray just reaches between two rows or strings. (This is where the string tied between the nozzle and the shoulder strap may come in handy):

On the return pass, walk on the same line again and spray in the same manner:

Old stubble Note the overlap you will get on the return pass.

When turning around, you will follow the next line or row of stubbles. This means that you must follow each line two times, one time in each direction.

Note that only after having sprayed in both directions, you have completed a real spray width as wide as your row spacing.

String

Mark when you stop If your sprayer gets empty while you are still busy spraying, it is very difficult to find the place to continue after re-filling.

It is therefore wise to carry some sort of marker with you while spraying. Stick this marker into the ground at the point where you stopped spraying. It is now easy to re-start where you stopped.

Spray to the side Another method when spraying is to keep the nozzle at a constant height and walk on the line.

Hold the spray lance a little to your side, so that only part of the spray goes over the line. Pointing the spray lance straight ahead, instead of holding the nozzle over the line, should do the job.

Note that the spray is going over the line that the man is walking on:

Next month we shall look at uneven and even spray nozzles.

Published with acknowledgement to the ARC Institute for Agricultural Engineering for the use of their manuals.

Visit www.arc.agric.za for more information.

ProAgri Zambia 32

27

The Massey Ferguson Loader

– A farmhand made of steel

CONTACT US TODAY! 28

Contact WISE SIBINDI on +26(0) 21-122-7497 / WSibindi@bhbw.co.zm or BARRY HUTCHINSON on +26(0) 96-802-2320 / BHutchinson@bhbw.co.zm

ProAgri Zambia 32

Get subsidised on Valley irrigation finance from equipment from Stanbic Bank

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Talk to our team today: Stanbic Bank: Lamine Chibawe on 0967385706 email: chibawel@stanbic.com Irritech: Edu Boettinger on 0977791387 Email: eduard@irritechsa.co.za

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29

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Make more from your crops Processing of oil seeds Part 8: Soya milk

By Theresa Siebert, Petrus Britz, Pr Eng and Agrelek

P

eople who are allergic to animal milk and suffer from lactose intolerance can use soya milk as an alternative. It is also a source of complete protein and contains all nine essential amino acids.

Soya milk is the aqueous extract of soya beans and closely resembles dairy milk in appearance and composition.

We thank the ARC Institute for Agricultural Engineering in South Africa who made the information available to the readers of ProAgri Zambia.

Soya milk.

Photo: upload.wikimedia.org

Product description: Soya milk Soya milk has been consumed in Eastern countries for centuries. Soya milk prepared by traditional, Eastern methods, has a flavour that is often described as “beany”, “rancid” or “bitter” by consumers of the Western world.

For this reason, the West did not readily accept soya milk until production techniques were sufficiently adapted to improve the flavour.

Modern soya milk extraction tech-

ProAgri Zambia 32

niques were also able to increase the product yield, making it more economic for processors and producers alike.

Soya milk is consumed in much the same way as dairy milk. It is also a very useful food source for babies who are allergic to dairy milk. It can be formulated and fortified to be consumed as a beverage or food supplement.

Soya milk can be concentrated by evaporation or spray drying. It can also serve as the substrate to prepare dairy analogues such as “cheese” (tofu), soya yoghurt and soya ice cream.

Process description – Traditional (Oriental) method for extracting soya milk Soaking of whole soya beans The soya beans are soaked in water overnight. Just enough water is used to cover the beans. Soaking raises the moisture content and cleans the beans.

31

Whole soya beans

Soya milk Figure1: The traditional Chinese method for preparing soya milk.

Rinsing of soaked soya beans The soak water is discarded, and the beans are rinsed with fresh water until the rinse water runs clear.

Grinding of soya beans The soya beans are ground with fresh water. The water to bean ratio is between 8:1 and 10:1. Stone grinders are used.

Traditional filtration of soya milk.

Photo: butterfingers.co.za Boiling of soya milk The soya milk is boiled for a few minutes and cooled before consumption or storage. Boiling inactivates enzymes and improves the storage life of the soya milk.

A traditional stone soya mill.

Photo: Vietnamese.alibaba.com Filtrating the slurry The slurry is filtered through (muslin) cloth. The residue is known as soya pulp or okara, and the filtrate is the soya milk.

32

Process description – Modern method for extracting soya milk Modern soya milk preparation methods seek to eliminate off-flavour development and improve the flavour with better extraction techniques. To do

this successfully, an understanding of the chemistry of the “beany” flavour formation is required. The characteristic flavour of soya milk results mainly from reactions catalysed by an enzyme known as lipoxygenase.

These enzymes need to be released to come into contact with its target chemicals. They also require the presence of water. These conditions are typically found when soya beans are ground (enzymes released) and mixed with water to form a slurry. The temperature of the soya slurry has a great effect on the rate of flavour development. As the temperature increases, so the number and volume of volatiles decrease. The enzymes are inactivated at 80°C and therefore it is critical that the slurry be heated to 80°C or above as soon as possible after (or even during) wet grinding. Alternatively, the dehulled soya beans can be blanched prior to grinding.

Several different techniques have been developed by research institutions. Most commercial soya milk plants employ a combination of these techniques or variations of the original techniques. Regardless of variation in the methods, the basic steps and principles of soya milk extraction are essentially the same. They include raw material selection, incorporation of water, grinding, extracting soya milk, heat treatment, formulation, fortification, packaging and several optional procedures. A representative procedure of commercial soya milk processing will be discussed but take note that many other methods are employed in the industry.

Raw material selection The selection of the right variety of soya beans is essential to successful soya milk production. Not only does it influence the quality of the end product, but also the economy of the process. High yield and protein extraction are desired from the cultivar. The typical soya bean for milk extraction should yield 80% or more protein and between 55 to 65% total solids.

Cleaning of soya beans The first step in preparing the soya beans for processing is to remove foreign materials, including plant rests, stones and dust. Cleaning is performed by a series of vibrating screens followed by aspirators and cyclone separators.

Dehulling of soya beans for milk extraction (optional) Most manufacturers choose not to remove the hulls of soya beans prior to milk extraction, because dehulling can damage the cotyledon and release oxidative enzymes that cause off-flavours.

There are various arguments for and against dehulling.

ProAgri Zambia 32

If dehulling is performed, it should be: • done in-line with grinding, with no time in between; • with minimum heating/heat-hold time; • in the absence of water; and • with minimum possible damage to cotyledons.

Soaking of soya beans (optional) There are several ways of incorporating water to beans to obtain an aqueous extract. Soaking is one of the ways in which to hydrate soya beans. Traditionally it was done overnight in cold water, but the soaking time can be greatly reduced by increasing the temperature of the soak water. The soya bean can increase in weight 2 to 2,3 times during soaking.

The benefits of soaking include: • reduced powder input requirements for grinding; • less erosion of millstones/blades; • reduced blanching/cooking requirements; • increased dispersion of “milk” solids; and • increased yield.

Blanching of soya beans (optional) Blanching is performed to inactivate the enzymes that are responsible for off-flavour development. Blanching also reduces the surface microbial load of soya beans. Anti-nutritional factors such as trypsin inhibitors are also partially deactivated. It also hydrates the beans if they have not been soaked.

Blanching is commonly performed in two steps with or without the addition of sodium bicarbonate.

Grinding of soybeans for milk production The purpose of grinding is to disrupt the tissues and release the proteins, lipids and other solids for solubilisation and suspension in water. The method of grinding used depends largely on the preceding hydration and preparation steps. Grinding may be performed dry or wet, with hot or cold water.

Dry grinding This method is used by some processors to bypass soaking and blanching.

The dry flour is then mixed with water to form a slurry.

Cold, wet grinding Soaked soya beans were traditionally ground at ambient temperatures.

Hot, wet grinding This is the most commonly used method. Grinding and hydration is performed in one step. Hot water and controlled conditions are required to coincide with grinding to prevent offflavour development. The air may be saturated with steam to reduce the available oxygen and inactivate lipoxygenase enzymes.

Photo: waangoo.com

Grinding devices include the traditional stone mills, large blenders, hammer mills, pill mills and large commercial grinders.

Step 1: The beans are heated for five minutes in boiling water containing 0,25% sodium bicarbonate.

Step 2: The beans are drained, rinsed and boiled again for five minutes in water containing 0,05% sodium bicarbonate. The addition of sodium bicarbonate to the blanching water is optional, but serves the following purposes: • Softening of hulls (if beans were not dehulled) and tenderising of beans • Shortening of blanching time • Reduces energy input required during grinding and homogenisation • Raises the pH, making soya proteins more soluble and thus increases protein and solid recovery Disadvantages of the use of sodium bicarbonate include: • The possible addition of acid to neutralise the pH • The destruction of some key nutrients • The possibility of a soapy aftertaste ProAgri Zambia 32

Photo: pinsdaddy.com Next month we shall look at the filtration process of soya milk and soya milk extraction

A modern soya milk grinder.

Photo: www.aliexpress.com

Published with the acknowledgement to the ARC Institute for Agricultural Engineering for the use of their manuals.

Visit www.arc.agric.za for more information.

33

Hydrautivity Zambia Limited Hydrau�vity Zambia Limited is a company specialised in mobile line boring that serves the whole country. We operate with a unique electric driven line boring setup designed and built to improve efficiency.

The line boring machine can line bore from 38mm to 152mm in diameter. We also refurbish buckets, tapping out broken bolts, removal and fi�ng of pins and bushes.

To us customers are very important and every job will be finished to the �ghtest tolerances with perfect alignment while keeping down �me and costs to a minimum.

For quotes/enquiries and bookings please feel free to contact us today.

Plot 8086 off Mumbwa Road, Chinika industrial area, Lusaka.

Mobile: +260 (0) 955 774714 or +260 (0) 966 450313 david_chirwa@yahoo.co.uk 34

ProAgri Zambia 32

The ABC of fish farming: Part 2: Feed management Written by Aquaculturist Jackson Siame

F

ish can be fed with formulated feed, or supplementary fish feeding can be done by creating natural food through fertilisation of water with manure. Fish fed on formulated feed grow faster than those fed on supplementary feed.

Feeding with formulated feed should be done based on the percentage of the average body weight (ABW) which can be determined by sampling. Below is a table showing different ranges of ABW with corresponding feed rates.

Since the fish is to be fed four times, the feed quantity per day will be divided by four to calculate feed per session, that is: Feed /session =

Feed quantity /day Feeding times

Feed /session =

600 4

Feed /session =

150 g

Tilapia

Catfish

Average body weight Feed type in grams (ABW)

Feed rate %

Feed times per day

Feed rate %

Feed times per day

0,5 g - 1,5 g

Fry mash

10

4x

7

4x

1,6 g - 10 g

Fry mash

8

4x

6

3x

10,1 g - 40 g

Starter crumble

6

4x

4,5

2x

40,1 g - 100 g

Starter pellet

4

3x

3,5

2x

101,1 g - 200 g

Grower pellet

3

3x

2,3

2x

200 g and up

Grower / finisher

2,5

2 - 3x

1,8

2x

For example: A farmer has 2 000 fish and at the time of sampling the fish weigh 50 g, the feed rate to be used is 6% and the fish will feed four times on starter crumble, that is:

Note: This quantity will be given at four intervals, at 10:00, 12:00, 14:00 and 16:00. If the feeding is to be done three times a day, then the times to consider are 10:00, 13:00, and 15:00.

Feed quantity per day = ABW x feed rate x total number of fish Feed quantity per day = 50 x 6% x 2 000 Feed quantity = 50 x 0,06 x 2 000 Feed quantity = 600 g

Do’s and don’ts.

• Do not feed your fish early in the morning • Do not feed after the heavy rains • Cancel feeding when fish are gasping for air

ProAgri Zambia 32

• Practice observational feeding all the time, increase quantity when the fish are eating more and reduce feeding when the fish eat less • Do not overfeed your fish as this will make the water quality bad After 15 days, the fish can be sampled to calculate the average body weight, which can then be used to determine new feeding rate per day.

Sampling Sampling can be described as the capture and weighing of fish to determine the average body weight of the fish population. The recommended time to sample is early morning around 07:00 or late afternoon at around 16:00. Ideally 5% of a population can be sampled to get accurate results.

Items required for sampling • Drag net/cast net • Sampling dishes • Digital scale (scale limit depends on size range of fish being sampled) • Scoop net • Pen and paper How to sample Capture the fish from the pond using a drag net or cast net and leave the net submerged in water. Half fill the sampling bucket with water, then weight it on the scale and record the weight as weight 1 (w1). Get the fish from the net using a scoop net, put it into the pre-weighed bucket and record the weight as weight 2 (w2). Subtract weight 1 (w1) from weight 2 (w2) to find the total weight of the fish.

Divide the total weight of fish by the total number of fish to determine the average body weight of fish.

Look out for the next article that deals with fish pond management.

For any further queries or clarifications, please contact Buumba Hampuwo at +26(0) 97-484-2192 or send an e-mail to info@essentialcom.biz

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