ProAgri Zambia 053

ProAg Agri ri technology for the farmer

Z a m b i a No 53

Stay buoyant with Roto Tank’s floating structures

Free

spreads growth and profit

A tractor for every farmer

Believe in greater

Advanced panel

FREE! with

internet control.*

Agrico centre pivots are supported Order new Agrico centre by theamanufacturer through:pivot with a Premium control panel• Crane and get an upgrade. trucks for service • Own branches as well as agents • Trained irrigation designers • Irrigation technicians

• Unmatched guarantee • Optional internet control with 24/7 helpline

*Free subscription included for the first 24 months.

Contact: Hanré Wiese | +26 0 973 170 557 | +26 0 211 845 874 Alfred Andrag | +27 82 824 1214 | sales@agrico.co.za

More than 100 years’ service

Sales and Service with branches across Southern Africa: Aliwal North | Bellville | Bethlehem | Bloemfontein | Brits| Caledon | Ceres | Christiana | Cradock | De Doorns | Douglas | Estcourt | Ermelo | George | Hartswater | Humansdorp Kakamas | Kimberley | Kroonstad | Lichtenburg | Lusaka | Nelspruit | Nigel | Nylstroom | Pietermaritzburg | Piketberg | Rawsonville | Tzaneen | Upington | Vredendal | Wellington

Cover

Letter from the Editor

Photo: Couleur from Pixabay.

A

trade war is never something to aspire to. We are currently experiencing one of the biggest trade wars in history between the US and China and we are all affected some way or another.

The Soweto Market in Lusaka also experienced a very unfortunate trade war on onions recently, but it was very well handled by the ZNFU and the Lusaka City Council (LLC). They deserve a salute for that.

The traders and agents were at loggerheads with farmers who wanted to sell their produce independently. Obviously, the farmers could sell their onions for a much cheaper price. Luckily, the free market principles were kept intact when the ZNFU and LLC told onion farmers and traders that the price for onions will be determined according to supply and demand or market forces and farmers and traders will have to negotiate prices.

A few excellent and thought-through solutions were found. All parties involved attended a meeting held at the Lusaka Civic Centre on the 9th of this

Content

3

4

20

month. A regulation was imposed in which any person who sells more than 50 pouches should be deemed a wholesaler and must register with the council and pay a levy. They will be given an official certification that allows them to trade at the market.

Another huge problem on the market is phytosanitary standards. Many of those involved lack compliance and this will need to be worked on in order to deter uncertified crop from unknown sources from finding its way onto the market and to prevent the risk of importing crop diseases.

After all, this win-win consensus will bring back the harmonious operations at Soweto Market and create an even better environment for crop trading.

Stay warm this month and enjoy a jam-packed edition full of very exciting and informative content.

Farm smartly!

Du Preez de Villiers dupreez@proagri.co.za

25

26

3.

Let Tal-Tec and eWeigh be your solution for traceability

4.

Quality is the hallmark of Novatek products

9.

Tiger Feeds highlights ascites as an economic challenge

36

10.

Create the perfect environment for your dairy cattle: Part 10

15.

Far becomes near with Freight Innovations

17.

Much harm is done by the illicit tobacco trade

19.

Isuzu and Nelson Mandela Bay Business take hands in healthcare support initiative

20.

The operation and application of medium and big square balers: Part 8

25.

New Amazone fertiliser spreader thrills Mpongwe farmers

26.

Turn your crops into condiments and seasonings: Part 5

29.

Farmers Virtual Summit: Farmers embrace online meetings

31.

Invest in your farm with Ensign Storage Solutions

32.

QBS offers a sustainable supply of foundation seed

36.

SeedCo delivers another record breaker maize yield

45.

Afriseed leads the way in smallholder cropping

ProAgri Zambia 53

John Deere might be perceived as a high and mighty agricultural machine manufacturer, but they never lose touch with their variety of clients. This month middle sized farmers can feast their eyes on the affordable 5075E. Turn to the back page for more information.

ProAgri technology for the farmer

Z a m b i a

Nangwenya House No. 7352 Nangwenya Road Rhodespark +26 (0)97-769-9786 www.proagri.co.za Copyright © 2019. All rights r­ eserved. No m ­ aterial, text or p ­ hoto­graphs may be r­ eproduced, copied or in any other way t­ ransmitted without the written consent of the publisher. O ­ pinions ­expressed are not n ­ ecessarily those of the publisher or of the e ­ ditor. We recognise all trademarks and logos as the sole property of their r­ espective o ­ wners.

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 Reporters Annemarie Bremner > +27 82-320-3642 annemarie@proagri.co.za Benine Ackermann > +27 73-105-6938 benine@proagri.co.za Jaco Cilliers > +27 71-893-6477 jaco@proagri.co.za Senior Production Manager: Zainab Pandor > +26 (0)97-769-9786 zainab@proagri.co.za Marketing Manager Diane Grobler > +27 82-555-6866 diane@proagri.co.za Marketing Xander Pieterse > +27 79-524-0934 xander@proagri.co.za Johan Swartz > +27 71-599-9417 johan@proagri.co.za Tiny Smith > +27 82-698-3353 tiny@proagri.co.za Anelda Strauss > +27 74-424-0055 anelda@proagri.co.za Gerhard Potgieter > +27 74-694-4422 gerhard@proagri.co.za Creative Manager Christiaan Joubert > +27 72-419-3990 christiaan@proagri.co.za Design Michelle Kruger & Esta van Niekerk Enquiries Engela Botha > +27 12-803-0782 engela@proagri.co.za Accounts Ronel Schluter > +27 12-803-0782 accounts@proagri.co.za Business Manager George Grobler

1

Now Available in

BOTSWANA / NAMIBIA / ZIMBABWE

BOTSWANA

+267 318 6115 vlado@montgroup.co.bw 2

NAMIBIA

+2646 1290 9614 johan.smit@agra.com.na

ZIMBABWE

+26377 346 1299 sales@reddanefarming.com

ProAgri Zambia 53

Let Tal-Tec and eWeigh be your solution for traceability

Tal-Tec has been supplying farmers with durable cattle handling equipment since 1972.

C

reate a better future for your livestock by knowing your animal's history. Be part of the solution in the world’s food value chain by enhancing the traceability in the livestock industry through the use of eWeigh and iLivestock powered by Tal-Tec. By just marking your animals with your registered brand mark and a numbering system, you can start the process of creating a database on your farm. Tal-Tec has a solution to manage this data system/application namely iLivestock and eWeigh. iLivestock is a smartphone app that connects wirelessly to your scale and reader. Your ear tags, brand mark or electronic tag can be recorded onto your smartphone.

The latest technology allows you to trace your cattle’s growth every time they are weighed by storing the data digitally.

With iLivestock and eWeigh you can weigh, upload a photo and then store the animal's number along with all the necessary information. Typical information that can be stored includes gestation periods, when the cow will calf, birth dates, inter-calving periods, calving weight and calf number. Even GPS coordinates can be stored so you can track where you last worked with your animals or where they originate from. You can also record the genealogy of your herd.

All the calf's information can be recorded from weaning weight, weaning date or days to weaning. Daily weight gain and inoculation schedule are some of the many fields of data that can be captured.

Tal-Tec is South Africa's leading manufacturer of innovative livestock equipment. Designed and manufactured at their factory in Brits in the North West Province of South Africa, all their products are built to withstand the rigorous conditions experienced by farmers in Africa.

Equally important to Tal-Tec is that they listen to their customers and continually implement improvements and enhancements to the tried and proven products. The result is an unmatched range of productive, durable products for livestock farmers.

If it carries the Tal-Tec brand, you can be sure it carries a guarantee of superior quality and reliability. Tal-Tec serves the local and regional markets of Southern Africa, but also welcomes

ProAgri Zambia 53

Greg Talbot, owner of Tal-Tec shows what you need to use the eWeigh system. The cattle crate, eWeigh instrument, ear tags and ear tag reader are all you need to receive the information on your phone. enquiries from other parts of the African continent.

Tal-Tec has been in operation since 1972 and has always kept up with the latest demands from the agricultural market. That is why they have adapted to the new demand of traceability using the iLivestock and eWeigh systems.

Tal-Tec is dedicated to providing quality products that meet the changing needs of cattle farmers throughout Southern Africa.

So, be a leader in the livestock traceability field with Tal-Tec and eWeigh.

For more information phone TalTec on +27(0)12-250-2188 or +27(0)66-299-7939, or send an e-mail to sales@taltec.co.za and visit the website for the full product range at www.taltec.co.za.

3

Quality is the hallmark of Novatek products

by Salim Dawood

N

estled in the tiny corner of the famous Zambeef Farm measuring thousands of hectares on the outskirts of Mpongwe in the Copperbelt, a massive feed plant is raising above the trees.

Here, Novatek is producing sumptuous feeds for millions of livestock in the entire northern region of Zambia.

Commissioned only three years ago, the Novatek team feels it has already achieved so much and is ready for a seal of international approval in the form of 2200 ISO certification.

The plant comprises of sheds for raw materials, a highly automated state-ofthe-art processing plant, storage facilities for finished products and a fleet of delivery trucks.

According to Novatek Mill Manager Herman Potgieter, the plant produces 7 000 tonnes − equivalent to about 140 000 bags − of feed every month, while adhering to the strictest health and quality control standards.

In fact, the Novatek plant’s Finance Manager, Sunganji Mtambo, believes it is the quality of products that has made the company stand out from its competitors. "We pride ourselves on the quality of the products that we send out to the market," he says.

"When you compare our feeds to what is out there, most of the end users will tell you that Novatek produces exceptionally good quality. This, in turn enables them to sell better products, be 4

The impressive Novatek Mpongwe plant.

Workers at the Novatek Mpongwe plant offloading wheat bran on arrival. it for chickens, pigs et cetera. We take pride in our quality and we stand out against everyone else on the market," Sunganji adds.

As far as Herman is concerned, the quality end product from Novatek is a result of the deliberate rigorous quality control measures implemented from the moment farmers offload the raw materials – including maize, wheat, soya beans and maize bran – up to the time a finished bag of feed leaves the plant.

Herman explains that before any raw material is accepted from a supplier, it is checked for disease and quality, among other checks. He says that once the raw materials are gathered, company nutritionists then mix the formulas, upon which production starts. The tests for

The laboratory workers scrutinise every batch of raw material and final product.

quality do not, however, end with the beginning of the production process.

The finished products are tested for standards and durability before being supplied to clients. "So basically, we set our own standards. From there the ISO people come in and check: 'Do you comply with the standards that you have set for yourself'."

"Fantastic customer relations" is another reason that Herman feels helps the Novatek brand stand out.

"More people prefer our product because of the way that we do our marketing; that is a big plus for us. We actually

ProAgri Zambia 53

Novatek Mill Manager, Herman Potgieter, in his office.

Novatek plant Finance Manager, Sunganji Mtambo.

Workers at Novatek Mpongwe oversee the packaging and sealing of the final product.

empower farmers by giving them all the information that they need to succeed," he explains.

"We also take our complaints very seriously whenever we get one. We always take great pains to determine where the problem originated: 'Is it on the farm? Is the problem from the product?

Where is the complainant coming from?'

Customer complaints are handled effectively," he adds.

Herman says once an investigation in a complaint is completed, the customer is engaged and informed of the outcome. The reason for this is to maintain trust.

A question on whether both managers are pleased with Novatek's achievements thus far triggers broad smiles.

"From my side, I can say our journey has been a very big achievement for a plant like this within three years, so we are just waiting for ISO 2200 certification,� Herman says.

Sunganji is happy that despite the COVID-19 pandemic having affected a lot of industries, theirs remained almost unaffected and continues to grow. He now looks forward to penetrating the Luapula market which is showing signs of potential.

The Mpongwe Novatek plant is the company's second in the country, with the first in the capital, Lusaka. It supplies its product to all towns on the Copperbelt, Northern and North-Western provinces.

Sitting on five hectares of land, the plant employs about 250 workers directly.

Workers at the Novatek Mpongwe plant oversee the final product being loaded on a truck from the storage facility, while security ensures that the paperwork is in order.

Although the Novatek story has been a successful one, it has not been without challenges. According to Herman, the plant's distant rural and isolated location makes it hard to get raw materials as well as delivering the finished product to clients.

However, the company says it is on a sure path of growth and success, and ensuring that it achieves the five per cent yearly growth it set from the start.

You may contact Wiehan Visagie at wiehan.visagie@novatek.co.zm or MarnĂŠ Visagie at nutritionist@ novatek.co.zm for any information on feeding and feeds.

A truck leaves the plant to deliver nutritious feed to farmers.

ProAgri Zambia 53

5

Give Giveyour youranimal animalaaleap leapof ofmineral mineralwealth wealthwith withour our Give your animal a leap of mineral wealth with our wide-range nutritious lick wide-range nutritious lickblocks. blocks.

Give your animal a leap of mineral wealth with our wide-range nutritious lick blocks. wide-range nutritious lick blocks.

Available K130per per14kg 14kg Availableat atonly onlyK130 Available at only K130 per 14kg Available at only K130 per 14kg Buy 5% discount discount Buymore morethan than100 100and andget get 5% Buy more than 100 and get 5% discount Buy more than 100 and get 5% discount VISIT VISITUS US Stand Stand36346 36346Off OffKafue KafueRoad, Road,Makeni MakeniOpposite OppositeSourthern SourthernCross CrossMotors.

Motors.

VISIT US Stand 36346 Off Kafue Road, VISIT Makeni US Opposite Sourthern Cross Motors.

Stand 36346 Off Kafue Road, Makeni Opposite Sourthern Cross Motors.

CONTACT CONTACTUS US

6

P.O. 32269, Zambia P.O.Box Box 32269,Lusaka, Lusaka, Zambia CONTACT US Tel: 953 029 101 / +260 953 029 Tel:+260 +260 953 029 101 / +260 953 029096 096 P.O. Box 32269, Lusaka, Zambia CONTACT US Sales 966 516 161 / +260 978 413 421 / +260 SalesLines: Lines:+260 +260 966 516 161 / +260 978 413 421 / +260 962202 202849 849 Tel: +260 953 32269, 029 101Lusaka, / +260 953 029 096962 P.O. Box Zambia Sales Lines:

+260 966 516 / +260 421 / +260 Tel: +260 953161 029 101 / 978 +260413 953 029 096 962 202 849 Sales Lines: +260 966 516 161 / +260 978 413 421 / +260 962 202 849

ProAgri Zambia 53

NERIA’S INVESTMENTS LTD LEADERS IN AGRO COMMODITY TRADING THE MOST AFFORDABLE P R I C E S O F CO M P O U N D D A N D U R E A I N T H E CO U N T R Y

Saturnia House, Opp. Ndeke Hotel Longacre’s Tel: +260 211 244 505/6

E-mail: info@neriainvestments.com

ProAgri Zambia 53

www.neriainvestments.com

7

Less Feed − More Meat

TEL: +260 967 855495 / +260 977 1250 E-MAIL:

Jessy.Tembo@tigerfeeds.com.zm 8

ProAgri Zambia 53

Tiger Feeds highlights ascites as an economic challenge

by Given Hamnungu, Tiger Feeds Livestock Technical Advisor

A

scites is not a disease, but a multi-factorial syndrome caused by interaction between genetic, physiological, environmental and management factors. It is a metabolic disorder characterised by an increased workload of the cardiopulmonary system (hypoxaemia), an accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, hypertrophy of the right ventricles and a flaccid heart, all of which often lead to death.

It has become a major concern to the poultry industry around the world. This condition is extremely common at high altitudes and more particularly during winter or cooler seasons.

Ascites develops gradually and the birds suffer for an extended period before they die. The underlying factor to the development of these symptoms is an insufficient oxygen supply to the tissues of a rapidly growing broiler. Mainly environmental factors associated with management practices contribute to the development of the syndrome.

Broilers which are susceptible to ascites showed a reduced function of the tissue mitochondria. Environmental factors, which increase the demand for oxygen, such as low brooding temperature, or which impair oxygen supply to the blood, such as high altitude, are known to increase the incidence of ascites.

The dust particles in the air of poultry sheds are inhaled by the birds and while exhaling they settle in various part of their air sacs, especially the thoracic air sac where air stays for a longer period, which leads to difficulty for birds to breath, hence the deficiency of oxygen in the blood.

Presence of high carbon dioxide levels in the shed, either due to overcrowding, poor ventilation, blocking of fresh and cold air during winter with curtains or due to the lack of proper exhaust fans resulting in the deficiency of oxygen in the blood of the birds.

High altitudes have also been long known to cause heart failure and ascites.

Causes of ascites Today's broilers grow much faster and eat less feed. The growth of the heart and lungs has not increased in size proportional to the increase in body weight and breast meat yield. The rapid growth of the bird demands more oxygen, requiring more work from the heart and lungs. Anything that limits oxygen uptake from the lungs is going to cause the heart to work harder.

Therefore, the main cause of ascites is poor ventilation in poultry houses, resulting into the following: Presence of ammonia in the poultry house. Birds are unable to get adequate oxygen as they inhale air full of ammonia, so their blood is deprived of an oxygen supply.

Brooding temperature Genetic factors Broiler chickens have been selected for a higher growth rate; therefore more oxygen is required to sustain the rapid growth. The time required to reach 1,5 kg live weight has been reduced from 120 days in 1925 to 30 days in 2005.

Closing curtains of the poultry house increases toxic air and reduces oxygen levels.

Environmental factors Cold temperatures Cold exposure is the most important secondary factor that causes ascites syndrome in broilers raised in open sided and non-insulated poultry pens that has a lasting effect on the incidence. When the ambient temperature is relatively lower than the bird’s body temperature, there is a sharp increase in oxygen consumption. Exposure to cold periods that place the birds outside their thermo-neutral zones will increase the demand for oxygen as this will force the birds to generate more energy to keep warm.

The capacity of the lungs to pump oxygen to meet this rapid growth rate is inadequate as they grow less rapidly than the rest of the body.

Management High nutrient density rations and high feed intake are necessary for a bird to grow faster and cannot be ignored.

Therefore, if the correct management practices are not followed, it can have a devastating effect on birds by causing ascites syndrome.

Signs of ascites: A high rate of panting is often observed in ascitic birds, even with the absence of apparent heat stress.

Gurgling sounds often accompany panting.

Ascitic birds may show signs of cyanosis (a blue discolouration of skin), especially around the comb and wattles.

Ascitic birds tire out easily and often die on their bellies.

Most deaths begin at about three weeks of age.

If their bellies are opened, a cup or more of fluid or jellied material will pour out.

Lungs of ascitic bird may often appear pale or greyish. Lungs are extremely congested and oedematose.

Liver enlargement is often seen.

For more information, contact Rowena Blanco at +26096-7991-847 or +260-967790-404, send an e-mail to rowena@tigerfeeds.com.zm, or visit the website at www.tigerfeeds.com.

Genetic development over time.

ProAgri Zambia 53

9

Create the perfect environment for your dairy cattle: Part 10

Rapid-exit milking parlours and regulations

Picture 1: Thomas Bock, Pixabay.

R

apid-exit parlours are designed to improve the efficiency of fishbone and parallel parlours. All the cows on the one side of the parlour are let out simultaneously in a direction perpendicular to the direction to which they entered the parlour. This saves the labourer time in letting out the cows.

The time it takes for the cows to enter the parlour and the delay on account of slow milking cows remains unchanged.

Picture 2 shows a rapid-exit parlour controlled manually by means of a pulley system. Picture 3, 4 and 5 shows photographs of a rapid-exit parlour controlled by means of hydraulic cylinders.

Picture 2: Rapid-exit parlour with pulley system.

10

ProAgri Zambia 53

Regulations concerning milking parlours The following requirements are applicable to milking parlours: An acceptable milking shed must consist of at least: • A milk room where the actual milking is done; • A milk handling room where milk is received from the milking parlour and stored or treated, processed, and packaged; • A bathroom for the milking crew; • A wash basin for the washing, cleaning, disinfecting and sterilisation of loose milk containers and other loose apparatus and equipment used in the handling of milk.

Picture 3: Rapid-exit parlour with hydraulic cylinders.

Picture 4: Rapid-exit parlour with hydraulic cylinders.

The facilities mentioned above must be erected as separate rooms in one building complex or as separate loose standing buildings. A scullery with a wash basin can be erected as an integral part of a milk room or as a separate room.

A milk room for milking: (a) May not have any direct connection with a latrine or with a room in which there will exist or originate, from the nature of its activities, gases, smoke, vapours, dust or a soot deposit, except a fodder room or fodder storage room. (b) Must provide standing room for more than one row of dairy animals parallel to each other, and must contain a separating alley of at least one metre wide between the rows. (c) Its partitions, if any, to separate the diary animals from each other when they are milked, must be of smoothly finished non-absorbent and corrosion resistant material, without any open seams or cracks.

NoseRing NoseRing®

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

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

NoseRing® is available at Livestock Services, Lusaka – Pamodzi Highway, off Nangwenya Road, Showgrounds; Tel: 0211-254497 / 254024; E-mail: admin@livestock.co.zm

Picture 5: Cows being let out of a rapid-exit parlour with hydraulic cylinders.

ProAgri Zambia 53

Tel: +27 (0)5 Cell: +27 (0)8 E-mail: judy@nos Tel: +27 (0)53 927 4999 www.nos Cell: +27 (0)82 459 9451 judy@nosering.co.za

www.nosering.co.za

11

Picture 6: Milk handling equipment should be washed in the facility provided for it. Photo: planet_fox, Pixabay. (d) Must be equipped in such a way that fodder that collects behind or under the troughs can be removed. (e) Its exterior walls must: • have an interior height of at least 2,4 metres; • be at least 2,1 metres above the level on which the dairy animals are standing at the location where dairy animals are milked. (f) The interior wall surface must be smooth and washable. (g) Its roof must be of water resistant and washable material. (h) Its floor must: • be of leak proof and cleanable material; Picture 7: A milk room.

12

ProAgri Zambia 53

• and drain thoroughly to a drain connected to a disposal system in such a way that no water pools can form on the floor. (i) Must be sufficiently ventilated and illuminated. (j) Must be provided with at least one water tap with pure running water, onto which a pliable pipe can be connected for washing purposes. (k) Its entrances and exits for dairy animals must have a floor covering of an impenetrable surface, which is connected to a disposal system and such a floor covering must be so installed that any dairy animal that enters or leaves the milking parlour can walk at least a distance of four metres over it.

(b) Must have sufficient room to (in addition to the storage of milk) clean and disinfect milk containers. (c) Must be provided with at least one wash basin with pure running hot and cold water, lain on with pipes and with the drainage connected to a disposal system. (d) Must be erected in such a way that a milk pipe of a milk tanker can be connected through a door to the mass farm tank and the distance between the two connections may not exceed 6 metres. (e) Must be rodent resistant. (f) Its doors and windows must be sealable against dust. (g) Can be fitted with a mass farm tank for the storage of milk.

A milk handling room: (a) Must comply with the stipulations (a), (e1), (f), (g), (h) and (i) above.

A bathroom must: (a) Comply with the regulation under the section, A milk room for milk-

ing, (e1), (f), (g), (h1) and (i). (b) Have at least one wash basin and one shower fitted with pure running water lain on with pipes, for each fifteen or part of the number of persons working at the milk room and be provided with soap, a nailbrush and disposable towels and the waste water from such a basin and shower must drain to a disposal system. (c) And be within easy reach of a milking parlour and milk room.

Effluent from a milk room may not: • Be stored, treated or disposed of in any other place than in or on a disposal system; • Be disposed of in another manner into or onto a disposal system or transported thereto than by means of a pipeline or cement trench or in a container; • Be disposed of in such a manner that a water source is or can be polluted thereby.

Only pure water may be used in a milking parlour.

A supervisor must ensure that in or near a milking parlour: • A nuisance or a life-threatening situation is not caused or arises; • Poisonous or dangerous substances or gasses are not stored; • No activity is performed that can pollute or be detrimental to the milk; • Rodents and flies, cockroaches and other insects on the premises are combated.

A milking parlour may not be used for any other purpose than for the production and handling of milk.

Loose milk containers and other loose apparatus and equipment used in the handling of milk may not be washed, cleaned, disinfected or sterilised at any other place than in the washing-up facility, which must be equipped with a proper wash basin.

No-one may eat or use or handle tobacco in any form in the milking parlour.

As soon as the dairy animals have left the milking parlour, all the manure must be removed from the parlour and the floor, and all entrances and exits of the parlour must be washed clean.

Next month we shall look at the lay-out of the interior and exterior of a milking parlour.

Published with acknowledgement to the ARC Agricultural Engineering for the use of their manuals. Visit www.arc.agric.za for more information.

ProAgri Zambia 53

13

YOU CAN ONLY CHOOSE 1: We tick all COST EFFECTIVE LIGHTNING FAST PERSONAL SERVICE

the boxes

I NT ER NAT I ONA L

CR OS S B OR DER

DOME S T I C

There are two services available for airfreight exports, either doorto-door or door-to-airport.

We offer fast and cost-effective export services into our neighboring SADC countries.

Our road freight service is a costeffective solution for less timesensitive deliveries.

Contact us for a free quote

Contact us for stress-free delivery

Contact us to save on shipping

WITH OUR 100% CLIENT RETENTION RATE, YOU CAN BE SURE THAT YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH US WILL BE UNMATCHED

Success is a journey achieved through innovation

REAL PEOPLE. REAL SERVICE +27 (0)86 177 7913 14

agri@freight-innovations.co.za

www.freight-innovations.co.za

ProAgri Zambia 53

Fa r b e c o m e s n e a r w i t h Fr e i g h t I n n o v a t i o n s

The team who takes Freight Innovations to even higher and better places.

Russel Burger, Financial Director, and Craig Burger, Managing Director, are the leaders of Freight Innovations. Craig received an award from Success Awards in 2019.

A

frica is becoming a global village in itself with the aid of transport companies. Huge and small trucks are criss-crossing the continent, making it easier and cheaper to bring more and better products to our doorsteps.

Behind the curtains, transport brokers are keeping their fingers on the pulse to make this happen.

Since its inception in 2011, Freight Innovations has been highly successful in rendering an essential service.

This transport broker caters for a niche market in terms of service levels.

Not many start-up businesses on an owner-driver level enter the freight industry as it poses many challenges.

To run a professional operation with advanced service techniques, including an online portal for each customer, requires immense start-up capital and a high level of knowledge and experience.

The formula for success was devised by the start-up group which is a family business. It is headed by Craig Burger as Managing Director. At the tender age of 25, after having been in the industry and after having received expert guidance from a pioneer veteran in the industry, Delia Cooney, Freight Innovations was destined to become a success.

Russel Burger, Craig’s brother and Financial Director, was the junior and at the age of 21, he took up the position of sole driver of the one delivery vehicle in 2011.

The trio of two brothers and their mother sharpened their skills in the industry and established a close relationship with a few suppliers. This formed the basis of what is today a multi-million-rand business with a turnover of R25 million per year and still growing steadily.

“We offer a national and international logistics service which encompasses all the services with extra advantages.

Although we are not a traditional business, our flat management structure enables decisions to be made swiftly while offering a transparent and unique service which is personalised, even customised to suit the customer’s needs,” says Craig Burger.

The team consists of 22 employees under the auspices of the Freight Innovations management, yet about 110 positions are created through its outsourcing. The challenge was to merge the conventional business model with high overheads but quality service levels into a smaller player that could compete with the bigger role players on service. That has been achieved successfully.

The Company Head Office is situated in Brackengate Business Park in Cape Town, which includes the customer call centre with after-hours assistance.

“Many clients have the need to call after hours when a query arises, so it’s important to us that our clients have the peace of mind that they will get service whenever they need it. The directors interface directly with clients, which provides a seamless service,” Craig says.

“An important focus of the business was to be able to offer a much smaller carbon footprint in the transport in-

ProAgri Zambia 53

The Freight Innovations office in Cape Town is situated in a beautiful office park. dustry,” Delia Cooney states. She is a stalwart of supporting carbon control.

The company utilises existing space and distribution channels to reduce the impact of its carbon footprint.

Neither destination, nor size is a challenge to Freight Innovations. In fact, this team thrives under pressure and welcomes challenges.

Russel Burger coined the service commitment in July of 2011, saying that “success is a journey, achieved through innovation.” The two brothers, Craig and Russel Burger, have certainly achieved that. Their services include a road and air service into Zambia. They also have an international department to assist clients with imports and exports.

Your shipment is safe and straight underway to its destination while in the hands of Freight Innovations. Contact Delia Cooney at +27(0) 86-177-7913 or agri@freight-innovations.co.za.

You can also visit their userfriendly website at www.freight-innovations.co.za.

15

Tel: ( + 260 ) 211 256 649 enquiries@rolandtobacco.com / www.rolandtobacco.com Nangwenya Road, Lusaka

Roland Imperial Tobacco is an indigenous Zambian owned company that was incorporated in 2001 to manufacture, trade and sell cigarettes and other tobacco related products. The company is effectively administered via two autonomous divisions which are both headed by a General Manager. The two divisions are Manufacturing Division and Trading Division. The overall head of RITCO is the Executive Chairman who is also the Chief Executive Officer. RITCO limited boasts of the first cigarette manufacturing plant in Zambia located in Lusaka. Roland Imperial Tobacco brands are manufactured locally and use the finest of locally grown tobacco blends, giving them a high quality and fresh taste. Zambia grows some of the best tobaccos in the world.

Roland Imperial Tobacco (RITCO) established a cigarette manufacturing plant in Lusaka and commenced production of the LIFE and GUARDS brands of cigarettes which come in two variants, these being LIFE FULL FLAVOUR and LIFE MENTHOL packed in hard hingedlid packs 20s and also in 2s; GUARDS FULL FLAVOUR and GUARDS MENTHOL packed in soft packs 20s. The factory is currently situated along Kafue Road on Plot No. F397A/D11TT and has three production lines with a combined installed capacity of 21,000 sticks per minute.

The tobacco processing plant comprises a green leaf threshing plant and a primary processing plant, with a capacity to process 4tonnes of tobacco per hour. Roland Imperial Tobacco focuses on building customer relations. We believe customers are at the core of our business and are the most valued stake holders. We offer customers good prices, variety product mix and efficient and effective Sales team that meet their needs and requirements.

16

ProAgri Zambia 53

Much harm is done by the illicit tobacco trade

By Aliport Ngoma, General Manager Roland Tobacco Company

Z

ambia is famous for producing some of the best flavoured tobacco in the world. It is therefore no surprise that over 90% of Zambia’s tobacco is exported. This commodity is sent mainly to countries in Asia and Europe with little or no value addition.

The annual tobacco production in Zambia is currently averaging 26 million kilograms, having reached a peak of 40 million kilograms in 2012. This commodity contributed 3% to Zambia’s total GDP. The three big manufacturers of cigarettes in Zambia are Roland Imperial Tobacco (RITCO), British American Tobacco (BAT) and Copperleaf Tobacco.

Their total combined production capacity is 8 billion cigarettes per year, while Zambia’s cigarette consumption is estimated at 3 billion cigarettes per year.

Unfortunately, there is another side to this coin ...

The prevalence of illicit cigarettes on the Zambian market is a serious problem for all the stakeholders in the industry. It is estimated to be as high as 30% of the market, which is mainly driven by smuggling. This contraband is smuggled into the country without payment of duty and other forms of taxes, and neither are they checked for standards conformity.

They are sold at a price below that of legitimate products, making them unfairly competitive.

This is robbing the government of much needed revenue as well as posing a health hazard to Zambian citizens.

The Zambian tobacco farmer is also severely impacted, and new investments are also hampered by this criminal activity. It is estimated that the Zambian Government loses between 50 and 100 million Kwacha worth of revenue from smuggled cigarettes per year.

Sadly, illicit products are being sold freely on the Zambian market. Lack of compliance and enforcement of regulations on the market encouraged proliferation of illicit cigarettes. They are sold with no effective intervention from relevant authorities.

The illicit cigarettes are falling short of requirements for cigarettes such as: • Customs and Excise Act chapter 322, section 108A, which states that “any person who manufactures, distributes or imports cigarettes shall affix a cigarette tax stamp, in the prescribed form, to each individual package of cigarettes in such a manner as may be prescribed by the CommissionerGeneral. The stamp should be fixed on a pack in such a way that it breaks once the pack has been opened”.

• The Public Health (Tobacco) Regulations, 1992, which state that “no manufacturer, importer, distributor or retailer shall sell any tobacco product in a package unless such package is labelled in a clear, legible and conspicuous manner with a warning as follows: “WARNING: TOBACCO IS HARMFUL TO HEALTH”, which shall appear on both sides of the large surface area of the package printed in bold letters against a contrasting background; be in place where there is no risk of being damaged when the package is opened; and not be placed on a transparent wrapping or other wrapping paper used outside the packaging”.

• The Zambian Cigarette Standard DZS 303:2015 – Zambia Bureau of Standards compliance and enforcement.

ProAgri Zambia 53

National task forces which are established specifically to counter cigarette smuggling have proved futile, and action by the relevant authorities has been minimal. Strict enforcement and more severe punishment need to be applied if the Zambian tobacco industry wants to keep up with Zimbabwe, who is earning over US$ 1 billion per year from their tobacco industry.

There is a desperate need for government to promptly put in place measures that will stamp out illicit cigarettes, increase revenue collection, support the local industry and job creation, whilst at the same time, making the Zambian product more competitive. Government should enact legislation to support and protect local companies that have invested heavily in the tobacco industry.

The following are some of the recommendations that will enhance growth of the sector: • Banning the importation of cigarettes, to be supplemented by the establishment of an effective national task force to combat cigarette smuggling. Border control should also be stepped up. Exceptions should be made for manufacturers who have invested locally and who are bringing in their own brands of cigarettes.

• With already existing excess capacity of the three local manufacturers (8 billion cigarettes per year combined capacity versus 3 billion cigarettes per year consumed), it is unnecessary to import cigarettes.

• Supporting the local industry will lead to job creation, growth, and local manufacturers will “recapture” volumes from the illicit market.

• To protect the health of consumers in the country as some of the smuggled cigarettes are not subjected to checks for standards conformity and are of questionable sources of origin and manufacture.

• Government will be required to make decisions that are in line with the aspirations of the World Health’s Organisation’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO-FCTC).

It is important to raise awareness amongst the enforcers of the tobacco regulations, the distributors, vendors, and consumers on what constitutes legal versus illicit products.

To learn more about the tobacco trade in Zambia, call +26(0)21-125-6649, or e-mail enquiries@rolandtobacco.com, or visit their page at www.rolandtobacco.com.

17

18

ProAgri Zambia 53

Isuzu and Nelson Mandela Bay Business take hands in healthcare support initiative I

suzu is a partner for the long run, particularly when it comes to becoming proactively involved in providing healthcare support to the local community during the COVID-19 crisis.

The company has initially made its 2 000 square metre Vehicle Conversion and Distribution Centre (VCDC) in Markman Industrial Township, in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape province in South Africa available to serve as a centralised logistics and distribution hub for medical supplies required by Nelson Mandela Bay’s hospitals treating COVID-19 patients. Isuzu also oversees the receipt and distribution of medical supplies to the relevant hospitals with a dedicated fleet of trucks.

This forms part of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber’s Ubuntu COVID-19 initiative – a collaborative approach by businesses in Nelson Mandela Bay to proactively mobilise resources to support emergency response readiness activities in the region.

Denise van Huyssteen, IMSAf Corporate Affairs, Business Strategy and Legal Executive, and leader of the Business Chamber Task Teams, said Isuzu ensured that there was visibility and accountability in terms of the handling of the medical supplies, donated by partner organisations and businesses in Nelson Mandela Bay. “The receiving of products into the warehouse was managed by our IT Inventory System, as well as the storage and dispatching of orders from the warehouse by a group of Isuzu Supply Chain staff volunteers. This ensured

that there has been visibility and accountability in terms of the handling of the medical supplies,” said Denise.

With the return of production at Isuzu and subsequent need for operations to return to normal at the VCDC, the medical supplies and equipment have now been moved to global transport and logistics company DSV’s facilities located next door to Isuzu’s Struandale plant. “DSV is Isuzu’s logistics and warehouse partner and will continue running the medical supply project in partnership with us,” said Tony Pienaar, General Manager of Supply Chain Management and Quality for Isuzu Motors South Africa. “Critical items such as disposable aprons, sanitisers, respirators and face masks are currently being stored at the facility.”

Isuzu is involved in a number of other initiatives to support the healthcare fraternity in response to the COVID-19 crisis.

In April Isuzu undertook the task of renovating the Livingstone and Provincial hospitals in Port Elizabeth to increase capacity to accommodate COVID-19 patients who require screening, testing and hospitalisation. Isuzu's maintenance team and contractors worked around the clock to deliver the refurbished rooms in only eight days.

Livingstone Hospital is the dedicated COVID-19 medical institution for hospitalisation in the region and through the company’s efforts an additional 135 beds were created, while the old, decommissioned casualty building at the Provincial Hospital was refurbished to accommodate 25 beds to serve as a

ProAgri Zambia 53

Tony Pienaar, General Manager of Supply Chain Management and Quality for Isuzu Motors South Africa was at the helm of the logistical initiative to transport healthcare equipment to communities across South Africa. transfer location for COVID-19 patients.

“During this time of crisis, we strongly believe that it is important that with our partners and stakeholders we all rally together to do what is in the best interests of the city and its people as a whole,” said Denise.

Isuzu has also made 15 pick-ups available to First Rand’s SA Pandemic Intervention and Relief Effort (SPIRE) which is directly assisting the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Health Sciences with the transportation of personal protective equipment and medical supplies to support community health workers.

Furthermore, through the company’s ongoing relationship with the humanitarian relief organisation, Gift of the Givers, Isuzu has increased its vehicle support to the organisation to support its COVID-19 interventions, which include food aid and support for critical medical services on the ground in communities across South Africa.

Isuzu can also make a difference on your farm. Visit your nearest dealer or look at the range of transport solutions on www.isuzu.co.za.

19

The operation and application of medium and big square balers: Part 8

Introduction to the big square baler

by GJ Stoltz (Reg Eng Tech)

B

igger is better when it comes to commercial hay production for large herds. Bigger bales are not only more cost effective, but also less labour intensive as larger volumes can be handled at a time. When it comes to transport, the big square bale is the most economical option due to its weight to volume ratio which enables haulers to make the best use of a vehicle’s payload.

The big square baler is ideal for the large-scale farmer and contractor. They have a high output with a high bale density that is essential for profitability.

Some of these balers have two land wheels and the bigger ones have four.

The baler trails right behind a tractor and picks up the windrow that passes

Different models are available and their bale dimensions also differ. It is a big machine and very sophisticated.

Only the basic features will be discussed in this article. For more information it is advisable to consult the appropriate operator’s manual.

Photo 6: The front of the baler rests on a retractable support jack. The drawbar is height adjustable. The tubes for the different hydraulic systems are connected to the tractor.

Photo 3: A big bale with high density is produced.

Photo 1: Baler with two land wheels.

The bale chute is pointing upwards for transport purposes.

Photo 2: Baler with four land wheels. The bale chute is pointing downwards for baling purposes. through between the rear wheels of the tractor. The picked up hay then passes through the baler in a straight line and drops off at the back as big high density bales.

Photo 4: When turned on its side, the bale can easily be pushed through a single door.

Photo 7: The PTO drive shaft is connected to the PTO shaft of the tractor and drives the flywheel, via a slip clutch.

Augers Central gearbox

Packer fingers Ram Rotary packer Knotter

Flywheel

Operational features: This type of baler has a high capacity and can produce bales of the following dimensions: Height: 80 cm Width: 120 cm Length: 90 to 250 cm 20

Photo 5: A side view of a big square baler, showing some of the main components.

ProAgri Zambia 53

Component functions: The big square baler consists of quite a number of components, but only the functions of the main components will be discussed here.

These big square balers can be used for baling hay, straw and silage, and

must therefore be equipped with the appropriate components for effective baling.

All functions are controlled from the tractor by means of hydraulic and electric systems.

Flywheel: To keep the power flowing constantly, a heavy flywheel is fitted in front of the central gearbox. It balances out peak loads and reduces wear and tear on the tractor’s transmission. A wide-angle universal PTO drive shaft transmits the tractor’s power to the flywheel (see Photo 7).

Photo 11: The tines are mounted in u-shape channels in the pick-up.

Photo 8: The central gearbox at the top drives the other main components of the baler.

Photo 9: A smooth flow of material into the baler is important. The crop guard keeps the material down and the packer fingers at the back move the material into the machine.

Drawbar: The drawbar, which hitches the baler to a tractor, is height adjustable and very robust. When the baler is parked, the drawbar rests on a retractable stable support jack.

Photo 12: A castor-type support wheel on the pick-up.

Photo 10: A stub auger can be seen at the back of the pick-up.

ProAgri Zambia 53

Central gearbox: The central gearbox transmits the power from the tractor and ensures power flow to the individual components like the pick-up, plunger, packer fingers and knotters.

No shear bolts are used on some of the models, only slip clutches. Drive shafts are used instead of chains to ensure synchronisation of components that have to work in time, such as, for instance, the packer fingers and the plunger.

Pick-up and augers: The baler can pick up silage, straw and hay whether the crop is brittle or short, and whether the windrows are small or large. Some of the models have two stub augers, mounted on the sides of the pick-up, that compress the hay to fit the width of the inlet channel, which is also called the feeder channel. The pick-up is lifted and lowered hydraulically from the tractor. The flexible spring steel tines are mounted in u-shaped channels and have a long working life. The pick-up has two castor type support wheels which allows pick-up to virtually float over the ground contours, while dampers prevent it from bounding. A crop guard is also provided to ensure a constant flow of material to the packer fingers.

Another special feature on big square balers is the implementation of a rotary cutter. The crop flows over the pickup and over a special set of knives. At the top of these serrated knives is a rotor with V-shape prongs that guide

Photo 13: A rotary cutter at the top with retractable knives at the bottom.

21

the crop as it comes from the pick-up, pulling the crop evenly through the knives. The crop is cut and compressed at the same time. When the prongs feed the crop through the knives, they create a slicing action. The knives can be engaged or disengaged hydraulically from the drivers’ seat. If a blockage occurs, disengaging the knives often helps to clear it quickly. The number of knives can be changed according to the cutting length required.

Photo 14: The packer fingers push a portion of hay against the bottom of the plunger.

Packer fingers (packer tines): The packer fingers transport the hay through the feeder channel on its way to the bale chamber, and some machines also use a rotary packer for feeding the hay into the bale chamber. The packer fingers are driven by shafts. No chains are involved, which reduces maintenance considerably.

The packer fingers take over after the hay has passed through the pick-up and accelerates the material upwards into the bale chamber.

The packer fingers operate in two stages. During the first stage a portion of the hay is pushed up against the bottom of the plunger. During the second stage the packer fingers collect some more hay and when the plunger is retracted, the complete package of hay is pushed into the bale chamber.

The bales are compressed in slices

Photo 15: Another portion of hay is collected and pushed against the bottom of the plunger.

and this is clearly visible when the twine is removed and a bale falls apart in segments. This makes it easy to feed the bales to animals because the separate portions make it easy to give each animal just the right amount.

Plunger (Ram): The plunger, or ram, is driven from the central gearbox, and is connected to the gearbox by two heavy duty connecting rods.

At the bottom, the plunger is equipped with a knife that ensures a clean cut after the hay has been forced into the bale chamber by the packer fingers. The knife cuts over a stationary shear bar mounted at the bottom of the bale chamber.

Bale chamber and bale chute: The hay is compressed in the bale chamber by the strokes of the plunger, and from there it moves to the bale pressure chamber before the bale finally exits the machine down the bale chute.

The panels of the bale pressure chamber can be adjusted closer or further apart to control the density of the bales. The density of the bale is displayed on a pressure gauge at the front of the baler and on some models also on a monitor screen in the tractor cab.

The panels of the bale pressure chamber can be adjusted hydraulically from the tractor seat, and very strong springs are used to support the floating panels. A bale chute is mounted behind the bale pressure chamber and this chute can be raised and lowered as conditions require. On some models, the chute contains rollers that allow the bale to slide gently down onto the field.

Needles and knotters: Some models use four knotters to tie twine around the bales, and others use six knotters. The knotters are driven by a shaft from the central gearbox and gears are used inside the knotter box to maintain synchronisation. The

Photo 17: Bale slices make it easier to feed animals.

Photo 16: When a third portion of hay is collected, the plunger retracts, and the hay is pushed into the bale chamber.

22

Photo 18: The panels of the pressure chamber are adjusted hydraulically to control the density of the bale.

Photo 19: The pressure gauge on the right-hand side indicates the bale density. The flashing light on the left comes on when there is no supply of twine to the needles. The bale counter can be seen at the top.

ProAgri Zambia 53

Photo 25: On this model, four needles are supported by a strong frame that pushes the needles upwards to the knotters.

Photo 20: The chute allows the bale to slide down onto the field. As the compressed hay moves down the bale chamber, a bale measuring wheel measures the length of the bale that can be set according to requirements.

Photo 23: Part of a knotter box with electric fans at the back.

Photo 21: The bale measuring wheel on top of the bale chamber. After the baling process, the final bale or part of a bale is removed from the bale chamber by a special hydraulic bale ejector that shifts the hay out to clear the bale chamber.

twine is fed from the twine compartment to the needles and these balers normally use sisal or synthetic twine without resetting the knotters. Electric fans are used to keep the area around the knotters free of dirt, like straw debris or chaff.

An indicator lamp is mounted at the front of the baler and this flashing light comes on when there is no supply of twine to the needles.

Each knotter is serviced by a needle which takes the twine up to the knotter for the bale tying process. These needles must be adjusted according to the operator’s manual for that specific machine.

The four, or six, needles are mounted onto a rocker arm that swings the needles upwards from beneath the bale chamber, taking the twine to the knotters as soon as the compressed bale is the desired length (see Photo 25). The knotters complete a knot in every string of twine that was wrapped around the bale during the baling process, and the needles are quickly retracted before the plunger compresses the next slice of hay in the bale chamber. After each knot is completed, the twine is cut by the knotter mechanism, and the bale density stays intact as the bale is ejected from the bale chamber and onto the ejection chute.

Next month we shall take a look at the electronic control systems of the baler, as well as general maintenance guidelines.

Photo 22: The bale ejector arms inside the bale chamber.

Photo 24: Spools of twine are kept in compartments on the sides of the baler.

ProAgri Zambia 53

We thank the ARC Agricultural Engineering in South Africa who made the information on square balers available to the readers of ProAgri Zambia.

23

24

ProAgri Zambia 53

Save time and money while increasing yields:

New Amazone fertiliser spreader thrills Mpongwe farmers

by Salim Dawood

Somawhe Estate Crop Protection Manager, Bruce Robinson, is all smiles while operating the ZG-TS 10001 ProfisPro Amazone spreader.

B

esides keeping Zambia abreast of the latest agricultural technological equipment, the new version of the German manufactured Amazone fertiliser spreader has put large smiles on the faces of the farmers using them.

The latest Amazone fertiliser spreader offers high output, precise spreading patterns and consistent application.

It is not on the lower end of the price scale, but the farmers do not mind because it pays for itself in no time.

Agrivision Zambia, Somawhe Estate in the Mpongwe farming block of the Copperbelt Province was commissioned by former president Dr Kenneth Kaunda in 1987. The 4 000-hectare farm with a workforce of 170 employees grows soya beans, maize, and wheat.

Last December Agrivision Zambia, Somawhe Estate added a second ZG-TS spreader to its fleet and Bruce Robinson, the Crop Protection Manager, does not regret the decision.

“The reason why we have gone with it is its ability to be highly accurate in the field. The more accurate you are with your fertiliser, the less you have to apply and the better your yields are because the more uniform the spread, the better the yield,” he explains.

“The nice thing about these machines is that they are exceptionally

Somawhe Estate Arable General Manager, Mark Butler, is impressed with the benefits of the new ZG-TS 10001 ProfisPro Amazone spreader every time he walks through his wheat field.

reliable; the technology that has gone into it is huge. The working parts have been simplified as well, so lots of technology and work simplification makes breakdowns very minimal. In terms of breakdowns and maintenance on these machines, provided we keep the machines clean and we do not do anything out of their scope, we generally don’t have a problem."

Robinson says the new machines take under 30 minutes to load, calibrate, and prepare for the field with the push of a few buttons, whereas the older versions took almost three hours.

“The older machines never quite get it hundred percent, but with these machines you get it pretty close. If you spread uniformly in the field, you get a uniform grade. And when it is easier to spread, it is easier to manage your crops in general,” he explains. Furthermore, Robinson observes that the technology in the spreaders makes it easier and quicker for the operator to find spreading programmes for various fertilisers.

He believes that despite their cost, the latest Amazone spreaders can pay for themselves within a single farming season.

"This is our first full season using this. We have not done a cost analysis, but just on the virtue of the uniformity of the crop that has come up compared to the older one, you can see a difference,” he says.

Robinson has some advice for farmers who may not be too keen on getting spreaders: “If they are planning on going for something that suits their pocket in the older range, they are doing themselves an injustice.

Find the money and go for something better because in the long run it saves money, it saves time in the field, works more efficiently, and makes them more productive at the end of the day. And this machine will pay for itself within a short time,” he says.

Just next door, Zambeef also has an exciting fleet of its own Amazone

ProAgri Zambia 53

One of the many Amazone ZG-B 8200 Drive spreaders on the Zambeef farm contributing to precision farming. spreaders. Like Agrivision Zambia, Somawhe Estate, Zambeef Mpongwe grows soya beans, maize, and wheat on part of its 11 000-hectare farm.

Bruno Mweshi, Zambeef's Mpongwe Arable Farm Manager, says the farm has been using Amazone spreaders since 2016.

“The previous machines we used had a lot of parts that needed to be calibrated manually, but with these you simply touch a button to open the gate and change your settings. They are fully computerised and that entails efficiency. It is making our life easier,” Mweshi declares.

"The savings we get on time – the time we save on calibration and applying fertiliser – is a benefit on its own. If we spread our fertilisers at the correct moment, the crop will benefit and at the end of the day the tonnage will improve. Therefore, the cost of the machine cannot be compared to what we are gaining in terms of yield.”

Find your Amazone solution at Afgri Equipment Zambia Ltd or phone them for more information.

Visit www.falconequipment.co.za to view the other machines that help the farmer to gain bigger yields while saving time and money.

25

Turn your crops into condiments and seasonings Part 5:

To ma t o Chu t ne y

by Theresa Siebert

Y

ou can earn more for your produce than the current market prices.

If you add value to your produce by processing and packaging it, you can increase your profit by selling processed condiments at higher prices. In the previous edition of this series we covered peach chutney. This month the focus will be on tomato chutney.

Chutney is a sweet, tangy condiment that is served with curries, hot and cold meats and savouries. Tomato chutney may be prepared from both green and ripe tomatoes, along with onion, sugar, vinegar and various other ingredients, including spices. It is packaged in glass bottles and has a shelf-life of several months at cool temperatures.

For green tomato chutney, the tomatoes are picked at full size, just prior to it turning colour. It should be free from rot and disease. Minor blemishes can be tolerated as these are easily trimmed away. When ripe tomatoes are used, the tomatoes are picked in the firm-ripe stage. Selective hand picking enables the fruit to be sorted in the field. Any sunburnt, overripe and infected tomatoes are discarded.

Peeled, chopped onion, brown sugar and vinegar are basic ingredients of any chutney. Peeled, chopped apples (preferable Granny Smith) and sultanas are popular additions to tomato chutney. A wide selection of spices can be 26

added. Green tomato chutney favours the addition of mustard, cinnamon, cloves, cayenne pepper, chillies, and garlic. Ripe tomato chutney blends well with allspice, curry powder, garlic, chilli powder, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.

(Please consult recipe books for precise chutney formulations.)

It is always better to wash the tomatoes before using them in a recipe, especially if the tomatoes are soiled or have been sprayed with chemical pesticides. Washing takes place in a water bath with the assistance of soft brushes.

Peeling tomatoes are easy to do when following this simple hint.

Processing tomatoes into tomato chutney can increase your profit.

Photo: Pixabay.com.

ProAgri Zambia 53

The tomatoes are scalded for approximately 1 minute in hot water or steam at 98 to 100 °C. The tomatoes are then given a cold water dip or spray.

This rapid drop in temperature helps to loosen the skin for easy peeling without loss of sub-surface tissue. The cooled tomatoes are given a shallow slit at the blossom-end and the peel is pulled off using a sharp knife.

Onions are topped and tailed and given a lateral slit before the outer shell is peeled off. Apples are peeled and cored by hand or special handdriven apparatus.

Chopping of tomatoes and other fruit is done by hand using stainless steel knives, hand driven apparatus or small electric food processors. The size of the fruit pieces will have a great effect on the consistency of the end product.

During the cooking process, all the ingredients are combined in a large saucepan or batch cooker and slowly heated until all the sugar has dissolved. The heat is turned up to bring the mixture to boil and then left to simmer (uncovered) until the moisture starts to thicken (usually after about 45 minutes). Occasional stirring is required to prevent pieces from settling on the bottom and burning.

Glass jars used for the preservation of food should be of high quality, without any cracks or chips and should form tight seals. These are various methods of sterilising jars involving either dry or moist heat.

• Oven method: The clean jars are placed upright in a cold oven, allowing an even spacing between the jars. The temperature is set on 160 °C and the jars are left to spend a minimum of 30 minutes in the oven. The hot bottles are removed from the oven using gloves and tongs.

• Boiling method: The clean jars are placed lying down in a deep pot and covered with cold water.

The water is brought to boil. After 10 minutes of boiling, the jars are

•

removed using gloves and tongs.

The jars are placed upright on a wooden board and are ready to fill.

Steam method: Jars can be sterilised by saturating the interior with steam. This can be done by simply holding the open neck of the jar over the spout of a steam generator, water boilers or even kettles for 1 minute. Tongs or clams are necessary to handle the hot jars.

NB: Take note that as a general rule, hot food goes into hot jars and cold food into cold jars.

Filling involves displacing the air in the container with a food product prior to sealing. The hot chutney is filled into the hot, sterilised jars, leaving virtually no room on top. This is important since the hot chutney shrinks upon cooling.

The filled jars are left to cool before they are sealed with suitable, tightfitting lids. Metal lids are generally not suitable since the high acid content would cause corrosion of the metal, leaving the product inedible. Specially lined or lacquered lids are required.

The containers are labelled and coded so that the product contains all the necessary information. The labelling of these containers should be done in accordance with the labelling legislation of Zambia to ensure that the correct product details and nutritional information is displayed.

The chutney is stored in a cool, airy, dark place. Once the seal has been broken, it requires refrigerated storage.

Next month we shall take a look at the production of ginger oil.

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

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

LITERATURE SOURCES 1. Arthley, D. & Dennis, C. 1991.

Vegetable Processing. New York: Blackie.

2. Arthley, D. & Ashurts, P.R. (eds) 1996. Fruit Processing. London: Blackie Academic & Professional.

3. Fellows, P. 1988. Food Processing Technology: Principles and Practice. Chichester: Ellis Horwood, Ltd. Jars or bottles can be used for packaging and storage. The jars need to be properly cleaned and without any cracks or faults. Photo: Pixabay.com.

4. Macrae, R. et al. 1993. Encyclodaedia of Food Science, Food Technology and Nutrition. pp. 2960 - 2966 5. Potter, N.N. & Hotchkiss, J.H. 1995. Food Science. 5th ed. New York: Chapman & Hall.

6. Luh, B.S. & Woodroof, H.G. 1988. Commercial Vegetable Processing. 2nd ed. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold.

7. Gould, W.A. 1992. Tomato Production, Processing & Technology.

3rd ed. Timonium, Maryland: CTI Publications, Inc.

Onions are one of the ingredients that you can also produce on the farm or in your vegetable patch. Onions are one of the key ingredients for tomato chutney. Photo: Pixabay.com.

ProAgri Zambia 53

8. Somogyi, L P, Ramaswamy, H S & Hui, Y H. 1996. Processing fruits: Science and Technology: Vol 1 & 2. Lancaster: Technomic Publishing Co.

27

Organizers:

28

Our partners to date:

ProAgri Zambia 53

Farmers Virtual Summit:

Farmers embrace online meetings T

he age of post Covid-19 will be different, but exciting, and one of the signs of the time will be online meetings and even conferences.

In Zambia, the Farmers Virtual Summit 2020, a first of its kind, is due to happen from 21 to 23 July. It is an online conference and matchmaking forum, focused on linking the farmers to their suppliers and markets, while bringing industry professionals and regulators together. Expanding access to trends and issues in agriculture and technology is of vital importance and will be an integral feature of this event.

The summit aims to bring together some of the most important industry players and advance to accelerate the spread of knowledge, create new connections, and generate ideas, leads and sales to develop and expand the industry.

The innovative nature of the event is necessitated by various challenges and adversities faced by farmers worldwide. It is another reminder of the role technology can play in agriculture.

Therefore, this event will cover a wide range of industry relevant topics with an impressive line-up of local and international speakers.

To complement other previous conferences and meetings, the organisers are squarely focused on reducing barriers to access with simple, low-cost registration and the ability to engage from anywhere in Zambia and the world at large. Their innovative platform for the forum will create an interactive environment where attendees can match-make with their targets, pose questions and even vote.

Exhibitors can showcase their products through innovative online. In addition,

ProAgri Zambia 53

the organisers introduce targeted oneto-one and one-to-many presentations and engagements through modern technology.

Furthermore, the Farmers Virtual Summit 2020 will create a database for female farmers and seek ways for the Ministry of Agriculture and other stakeholders to promote and expand female participation in the agricultural sector.

By bringing all the stakeholders together through this innovative summit, issues related to sustainable agricultural practices will be addressed.

Be part of the discussions and exhibition, register today at www.meetthefarmerszm.org.

29

12 YEAR

GUARANTEE on all 850gsm dam liners CORRUGATED DAMS

SAVE

GRAIN DAMS AND AUGERS

on Grain dams and Augers this season!

Thoniel: +27 72 212 9273 Lucia: +27 84 869 0507 Albie: +27 83 462 1751 Tommy: +27 76 511 1540 Henno: +27 83 762 1148

30

Jaco: +27 82 577 8506 Esmari: +27 61 342 5566 Madalain: +27 83 625 0110 Johan: +27 79 818 7714 Riaan: +27 79 418 6601

01

02

03

04

05

Grain dam + Top cover

Hydraulic Auger with stand

Electric Auger with stand

2 x Grain dams + Top covers PLUS 1 x Hydraulic Auger

2 x Grain dams + Top covers PLUS 1 x Electric Auger

OPTION OPTION OPTION OPTION OPTION

ProAgri Zambia 53

Invest in your farm with Ensign Storage Solutions

by Jaco Cilliers

S

toring grain on your farm has many benefits. You can keep the grain and wait for the market price to rise. You also save money on the storage costs you would have to incur to store grain in the co-op silo. Installing your own grain storage facility on your farm is an investment that will pay for itself over time.

Ensign Storage Solutions has been a manufacturer and distributor of high-quality storage solutions since 2018. They also specialise in grain handling equipment and water storage products, grain hopper bins as well as automated sheep systems for feedlots.

Ensign Storage Solutions relies on their engineering ingenuity and reliability to provide the highest quality products to the Southern African market.

Their service is supported by their expert knowledge of the complexities in the grain storage business. Although the company is fairly young, their staff has more than 50 years’ combined experience in the grain and water storage industry.

Ensign Storage Solutions can assist any farmer who wants to store his grain to sell at a later stage should it be short term or long term. Different products are available for the different required storage periods. Their solutions can be applied to the commercial farmers as well as the small to medium-scale farmers. Their products are tailored around the needs and wants of the different scale of farming. One such solution is the mesh grain dam, that consist of a re-enforcing mesh with PVC tarp and PVC top cover. The farmers place the harvested produce in these grain dams to assist with farm loading of trucks and for short term storage until the truck can load. This ensures that harvesting continues without delay. Many farmers use this method to streamline farm loading and to prevent delays in the harvest due to transport availability. The farmer can therefore ensure that the grain comes off the land and is kept in the grain dams until the grain can be transported to the different destinations.

The PVC Material used to line the grain dams ranges from 500 gsm to 800 gsm, depending on the application and request from the farmer. All PVC material used is formulated with UV-stabilisers to assist in the longevity of the product. Unique solutions can

Ensign SS has a range of water storage solutions that include these water dams built with high quality, 0,8 mm Aluzinc and a corrugated zinc roof.

These dams are available in sizes ranging from 3 m to 15 m in diameter with a hight of 1,55 m or 2,3 m. be tailored according to the different needs of the clients.

Ensign Storage Solutions manufacture and supply farmers and large co-ops with grain augers for handling grain.

There are different models of augers available depending on the needs and applications of the farmers. The standard sizes available are: • 9 metre 40 TPH electrical • 12 metre 40 TPH electrical • 9 metre 40 TPH hydraulic • 12 metre 40 TPH hydraulic Custom built sizes and capacities are also available on request.

These grain storage solutions can be erected for temporary use. Once it is empty, the farmer can remove the auger, fold up the canvas and store it away until the next season when it can be easily erected again. The more permanent structures are built using high-quality 0,8 mm Aluzinc corrugated steel. These structures can easily hold anything from 50 to 150 tonnes of grain.

They also provide larger solutions for groups of farmers or co-ops. In this category they are able to supply and construct conventional silos that are built with coated steel and can hold up to 10 000 tonnes of grain. There are also grain bunkers available that has a 250-micron silex plastic ground sheet and 0,8 mm Aluzinc side barriers. The bunker can be covered with a 700 gsm, UV-stabilised ice blue PVC canvas and can hold up to 20 000 tonnes of grain.

ProAgri Zambia 53

The wire mesh dams are built with 6 mm galvanised steel mesh to provide a sturdy structure which is lined with 550 gsm UV-stabilised PVC and has a capacity of 130 tonnes.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused havoc in most of the operations of businesses in the SADC region, except those in the agricultural industry.

Ensign Storage Solutions continued with their full range of operations even during the most severe restrictions.

They have obtained all the necessary permits and COVID-19 prevention procedure certificates in order to provide their excellent service to farmers throughout the region.

For more information visit their website www.ensignss.com or contact Thoniel van der Walt directly on +27(0)72-212-9273.

31

Good news for seed companies and farmers in Africa: QBS offers a sustainable supply of foundation seed

by George Achia

T

he seed industry in Africa is one of the pillars upon which improved agricultural productivity for the continent must rest in order for farmers to increase production. However, smallholder farmers across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) suffer low crop yields and sometimes crop failure due to the use of poor-quality seed or the unavailability of better performing seed.

Poor seed quality is a major bottleneck facing seed companies and farmers in the SSA region. This is often caused by mishaps during the seed production process, leading to difficulties with production and maintenance of quality foundation seed for some independent seed companies that service Africa’s smallholder markets, resulting in a low and inconsistent supply.

To alleviate this problem and to help address challenges associated with production of foundation seed, QualiBasic Seed Company (QBS) was formed to offer a commercially sustainable foundation seed supply solution to seed companies and farmers in Africa.

QBS supports seed companies in SSA to ensure the quality of certified seed by operating a centralised system that manages foundation seed production, quality control and storage, in a highly effective and efficient way.

According to the QBS Managing Director Andy Watt, QBS works with different seed companies to plan production and ensure delivery of high-quality foundation seed to satisfy the needs of their certified seed production. “As a company specialising in production of foundation seed for independent seed companies, we work with seed companies to help them realise their goal of producing quality certified seed by taking the burden of foundation seed production from them.”

He points out that QBS works to fill the foundation seed production gap by supplying high quality foundation seed with high genetic integrity, phytosanitary security and industry-leading seed quality standards to seed companies, including providing technical support to help seed companies with production and marketing of their certified seed.

One such seed company is Uganda’s BRAC Social Business Enterprises, a social venture launched in 2006 to contribute to poverty reduction and to support women and the youth by creating sustainable value chains for farmers.

32

According to the Head of BRAC Social Business Enterprises, Dr Ziaur Rahman, they have been working with QBS to produce high-quality hybrid seed to ensure maximum yield for Ugandan farmers.

He notes that the fundamental requirement of a growth-oriented hybrid seed producer and marketing company like BRAC Seed, is gaining the trust of farmers who are directly or indirectly involved in field production activities and observing results of quality yields.

“To attain quality yields, we have to ensure that farmers are supplied with quality hybrid seeds, which basically come from quality foundation seeds.

QBS is one of the leading seed companies that is exclusively producing high quality foundation seeds for African seed companies,” he points out.

Before learning about the services offered by QBS, Dr Ziaur says one of the challenges his organisation faced was unavailability of reliable foundation seeds and delayed access to technical expertise which in turn slowed down the supply of foundation seed for commercial hybrid seed production programmes.

“QBS always responds in time when we need foundation seeds to support our certified seed production programme,” he says, adding that with the foundation seeds from QBS, BRAC Seed has introduced a new drought tolerant hybrid maize, called Champion F1, in the Ugandan seed market.

Like BRAC Seed company, QBS and its service is not new to other seed companies across the region. According to Sylvia Horemans, Chief Executive Officer of Kamano Seed Company, the formation of QBS brought relief to most seed companies in Zambia.

“They have taken up a lot of work from seed companies by growing our foundation seed. All we have to do now, is to request to QBS to produce foundation seed so that we only focus on production of certified seed,” explains Sylvia.

She notes that QBS has helped her organisation, a company that produces improved seeds and markets them to smallholder farmers, to improve its business because of provision of technical knowhow that allows seed companies like hers to focus on other production operations as the burden of foundation seed production is taken

care of by QBS. “So far, QBS has been producing foundation maize for companies, but we hope they can extend their services to other seed crops including soya beans, sorghum, millet, groundnuts, cowpeas and beans. This range of crops has a lot of recycled seed which has caused the yields to be very low,” she states.

Across the border in Malawi, Demeter Agriculture Ltd is enjoying the fruits of its working relationship with QBS. The organisation’s General Manager, Prashant Khatri, says that before they used the services of QBS, they did not have the breeding material in the quality they wanted, but now this situation has changed.

“They are able to supply the quantity and quality on time in all seasons when we need foundation seeds to support our certified seeds production programme,” says Prashant.

As result, Prashant says that his organisation is now able to compete favourably in the market as the performance of hybrid is satisfactory, and adds value to their operations.

It is estimated that 80 percent of seed companies struggle to produce a consistent supply of quality foundation seed due to technical, infrastructural, and financial challenges.

As QBS continues to change lives of smallholder farmers through helping seed companies to gain access to high quality foundation seed, the seed companies that spoke to ProAgri magazine called on QBS to continue supporting their operations to ensure a win-win situation for all parties for improved productivity for smallholder farmers in Africa.

When certified seed is produced from quality foundation seed, it means that the end product that gets to farmers will deliver the intended genetic gain – meaning the farmer will reap the full value intended by the breeder with improved yield and quality, which will in turn contribute significantly to increased agricultural productivity.

Contact Davidson Silungwe at +26(0)96-609-0228 or Davison@Qualibasicseed.com or info@Qualibasicseed.com to get more information.

ProAgri Zambia 53

The Farmer’s best Fer�liser. Our focus is on the manufacturing and distribu�on of fer�liser as well as commodi�es trading.

Fert Seed & Grain Ltd

Contact us:

+260 977 610 498 | +260 973 848 229 | +260 973 782 627 marketing@fsgzambia.co.zm | sale@fsgzambia.co.zm

ProAgri Zambia 53

33

34

Tank Range 500 - 10 000 Lit r e

ProAgri Zambia 53

ROTO TANK FLOATERS & PONTOONS

BOAT JETTIES l AQUACULTURE CAGES l FLOATING PUMPS IN RIVERS/LAKES l FOR LODGES & MORE

BOATS L SERVICING BOATS IN AQUACULTURE L FLOATING STRUCTURES FOR PUMPS & MORE ProAgri Zambia 53 35 s ales @r otot ank zambia. co. zm 0960 567 058 www. r otot ank s . com

SeedCo delivers another record breaking maize yield!

by Adrian Chibanga

M

aize continues to register itself as the world’s most coveted grain.

The OECD/FAO Agriculture Outlook projected an increase in production of global maize to 1,2 billion metric tons by 2027, representing a 121 million ton jump in a 10-year projected period.

The projections include a 16% increase in demand for maize consumed, with Sub-Sahara Africa continuing to register an increase in demand for maize for both human and livestock consumption. These projections of aggregate demand are most likely going to attract commodity price increases, especially given the impact of climate change and, most recently, COVID-19 on agriculture production.

This month, we focus on another record breaking variety: A two tons per hectare yield over the registered yield potential of the variety, and four tons per hectare over and above the crop nutrition programme applied.

That is the result of one of our farmers, Triple S Ranch, who chose to plant SeedCo’s SC 647 during the 2019/2020 season. We are talking over 50 hectares of an early to medium maturity maize hybrid averaging 11,4 tons per hectare of excellent quality grain in a soil environment with a pH around five and total rainfall figures of 1 550 mm.

The results show the variety’s nutrient use efficiency in an acidic environment and excellent cob rot tolerance, and another critical factor, good management practices in establishing the crop and seeing it through to harvest.

ber with a seeded population of 62 000 per hectare, targeting a per hectare plant stand of 58 000 to 60 000. This was done with starter compound fertiliser (WVC) and followed by a good herbicide spray to keep the weed competition at its minimum. The crop’s emergence was excellent, thanks to the farmer’s good agronomic practice and the expected performance of the certified SC 647.

Crop Nutrition: The crop was put on a nutrition programme that targeted eight tons per hectare yield. The excess yield of close to four tons per hectare can therefore be attributed to the variety’s efficiency to utilise available nutrients, its ability to tolerate the acidity in its soil environment and the farmer’s good fertiliser split programme which was done during planting and at three-leaf and six-leaf stages.

36

Variety tolerance to soil acidity Tandzi et al. (2018), in their publication titled “Breeding maize for tolerance to acidic soils” highlight that acidic soils cause as high as 69% maize yield loss.

Soil acidity however continues to be one of crop production’s increasing challenges. This is due to circumstances ranging from micro-environments (annual rainfall), crop management practices that relate especially to monocropping maize or nitrogen loving cereals, and industrial effluents that increase acidity in irrigation water. Its effects in causing aluminium, manganese and iron toxicity, and the locking of phosphorus has been highlighted as the cause of between 2,8% and 71% yield losses in maize.

In their publication, Tandzi et al. highlight that genetic variability for tolerance to low soil pH exists among maize genotypes, which can be exploited in developing high-yielding acidtolerant maize genotypes. At SeedCo, we have observed and received good feedback from our customers on how excellent the SC 647 tolerates harsh acidic soil environments like the Agroecological region three of Zambia all the way into the rainforest farming areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

As you plan for your next crop of maize, our advice is: Bumper harvests start with the right seed. Your seed choice must determine what other support inputs you are investing into your crop.

You cannot afford to gamble with variety choice!

Consult your SeedCo Agronomist to receive the variety that specifically suits your needs and environment. If you are looking for a variety that will give you 50% above your budgeted yields, the SC 647 has proved itself this year, and it could do that for you.

In the next article we shall discuss the impact that limiting factors, including soil pH, have on the yields of maize.

The farmer’s crop management programme Crop Establishment: The crop was established in the first week of Decem-

Crop Protection: Good weed management early in the season coupled with two insecticide sprays targeted mainly at FAW and bollworm, plus one fungicide was enough to keep insect pests at their minimum. An amazing thing was how clean the grain was, with only one fungicide applied, in a 1 550 mm rainfall season.

That is a combination of good crop rotation and good variety choice. At SeedCo, we say #BumperHarvests #StartWithTheRightSeed.

The SC 647 cob on the Triple S Ranch

For more information, contact Adrian.chibanga@seedcogroup.com or visit their website at www.seedcogroup.com/zm.

ProAgri Zambia 53

ProAgri Zambia 53

37

Zambian Pig Genetics is the distributor of Topigs Norsvin genetics in central Africa. Built on our global research, innovation and absolute commitment to integrity and biosecurity, our close partnership approach means your farm benefits directly from our experience, energy and passion.

TN Natural Service boar • Tough robust boar for any farm

TN Tempo boar (AI only) • Natural resistance to Circovirus • High born alive • Strong uniform pigs • Excellent growth & feed conversion • Good temperament

TN 60 sow • Excellent mothering characteristics • Large uniformed litters • Performs well in challenging environments • Great temperament

THE TRUSTED COMPANY THAT'S A BREED APART.

The only SPF pig herd in Zambia, which means we supply pigs that are free of diseases such as mycoplasma and APP.

GENETICS | TECHNOLOGY | SERVICE +260 762 589 884 | +260 972 788 521 | sales@zpgzambia.com

38

www.topigsnorsvin.co.za

ProAgri Zambia 53

Massey Ferguson 390

Massey Ferguson 240

1995 Very good condition

1990 New Tires

R 150 000 + VAT

R 100 000 + VAT Export papers available to all African countries Transport not included but can be arranged

Massey Ferguson 165 1978 New Tires

R 120 000 + VAT

Sales, Services, Transport, Exports, Spares and more...

New/used spares for Massey Ferguson, Ford & Fiat tractors We are happy to assist you!

Philip: +27 (0)76-957-5924 OďŹƒce: +27 (0)16-365-6369 Spares: +27(0)82-871-2458 www.randvaaltrekkers.co.za

117 Kapokblom Street, Valley Settlements, Meyerton (Next to R59 highway)

ProAgri Zambia 53

39

40

ProAgri Zambia 53

ProAgri Zambia 53

41

HIGHEST QUALITY PECAN TREES As pecan farmers ourselves, we have practical experience. Our clients are people who wanted the same, good quality trees that their neighbours and friends got from us.

We started the Nensis Trees nursery because of our own need for quality, cultivar pure trees.

• • • •

We are registered with SA Pecan Producers’ Association (SAPPA) and the South African department of agriculture (DAFF) Our trees meet the SAPPA standards for X-Large, Large and Medium trees Nensis is a registered exporter with experience in exporting pecan trees to other countries Our trees are grafted with DNA-tested scion wood from our own orchards

We are not the biggest nursery in South Africa. But our reputation is big, for not only do our trees get quality, personal attention, but so, too, do our clients. And we want our clients to be as successful pecan producers as we are ourselves.

Please contact us for any queries, advice or orders For the best pecan trees you can buy, send us an e-mail on pekanbome@gmail.com Or call Oloff Nel on +27 83 292 5959 for a chat.

42

ProAgri Zambia 53

ProAgri Zambia 53

43

We sell the full range of Kymco ATVs including: MXU150, MXU250, MXU270, MXU450, MXU700

We sell a full range of Yamaha and Lifan motorcycles including: XTZ125, AG125, AG200, TW200, YZ125, DT125, DT175, YBR125, LF125GY

We sell Kymco’s SIDE x SIDE ATV’s including: UXV450 & UXV700

We sell an extensive range of Yamaha power products including engines, generators, pumps and lawnmowers

We sell the full range of Yamaha Marine motors including: F25, F40, F60, F70, F100, F115, F130, F150, F200 and more

+260 973 584 778 / +260 964 584 778 / info@bestofbikes.com www.bestofbikes.com 44

ProAgri Zambia 53

Af r ise e d le ads t he way in smallholder cropping

by Bwalya Mwansa

S

eed companies know that increasing the production of the millions of even the smallest farmers with a few percent, will have a massive impact on the national yield.

Stewards Globe Limited is a diversified Zambian owned agricultural company whose core business is to transfer seed technologies developed from public and private research organisations into the hands of farmers. Since 2011, the company, whose brand name is Afriseed, has been engaged in seed production, processing and marketing of improved and released varieties of cereals, legumes and oil crops with the aim of increasing smallholder agricultural productivity.

It is also actively marketing imported vegetable seeds, pasture seeds and crop protection products coupled with extension services.

Some of the hybrid maize seed crops we are actively promoting and distributing on the market are as follows: White hybrid maize AF 638 is a medium maturing three-way cross (Zea-mays) white hybrid and can be grown across the country in all the agro-ecological zones I, II and III. • Medium maturing hybrid: 120 to 130 days • Plant in rows 75 cm apart, 25 to 30 cm intra rows • Recommended final plant population of 50 000 per hectare • Excellent drought tolerance and moisture stress tolerance • Excellent stay green • Resistant to grey leaf spot, cob rot and maize streak virus • Semi-flint • Low risk to lodging • Good husk cover • Yield potential of up to 12 MT/ha AF 638

AF 635 is a medium maturing three-way cross (Zea-Mays L) white hybrid and can be grown across the country in all agroregions I, II and III. • Medium maturing hybrid

• • • • • • • • • • •

Days to maturity: 125 to 135 days Plant in rows 75 cm apart, 25 to 30 cm intra rows Recommended final plant population of 50 000 per hectare Seed rate: 20 kg/ha Excellent drought tolerance and stress tolerant Resistant to grey leaf spot and maize streak virus Double cobbing with excellent grain quality Excellent stay green Low risk to lodging Good husk cover Yield potential of up to 11 MT/Ha

Vitamin A orange maize (AF 672 A) has a unique orange colour because it contains beta carotenes that the body converts to vitamin A when consumed.

Vitamin A is vital, because it improves the immune system to fight diseases, it improves and maintains good eyesight and ensures a better and healthy skin among other benefits. It is suitable for growing in agro-regions II and III. • Medium maturing hybrid • Days to maturity: 120 to 130 days • Plant in rows 75 cm apart, 25 to 30 cm intra rows • Seed rate: 20 kg/ha • Recommended final plant population of 50 000 per hectare.

• Excellent drought tolerance • Resistant to all major diseases • Double cobbing • Good standability • Yield potential up to 10 MT/ha Planting Early planting at the onset of good rains is a key cultural practice for better fertiliser usage, better standability and early shading of the soil, which reduces evaporation and increases yields. Maize should be planted in rows of 75 to 90 cm apart at a spacing of 25 to 30 cm between plants.

Seed rate Choosing the optimum plant population and achieving the desired population are two of the most vital factors in maize production. This will depend on the varietal type, the climatic conditions, soil type and rainfall. A seed rate of 20 to 25 kg/ha is recommended. The more favourable the conditions are, the higher the optimum planting population. The optimum seeding population is 50 000 plants per hectare with a target final plant population of 45 000 at harvest.

Other cereal seeds include rice and sorghum which we have been actively promoting over the years.

ProAgri Zambia 53

Legume seed We have a wide range of legume seeds such as soya beans, cowpeas, beans, groundnuts and pigeon peas. These products do not have any adverse effects on the environment, especially on the soil. Other key features of legumes are as follows: • Their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil • Improve soil structure • Can be used as a cover crop to provide a good source of nitrogen for the cropping system • A good source of protein for animal feed

Musandile cowpea

Vegetables seed We also specialise in the supply of assorted vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, cabbage, rape, spinach, okra, watermelon, eggplant, carrots, etc.

Pasture seeds We recently added pasture seeds to our product portfolio as they provide an economical source of livestock feed, help build soil tilth, improve soil fertility, reduce erosion, and reduce invasions of noxious and poisonous weeds. The pasture seed product portfolio includes perennial legumes (siratro, Archer dolichos, silver leaf and stylo), annual legumes (velvet beans, black sun hemp, lab lab and jack bean) and grasses (Rhodes grass, green panic, buffelgrass, bana grass and green gold).

Crop protection products We recently added crop protection products to our portfolio as we aspire to be pioneers and leaders in providing superior and adaptable agriculture solutions to our customers in the face of climate change. Our aim is to establish a one stop shop for insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, seed treatments, inoculants, foliar fertilisers, adjuvants and bird repellents.

Contact Afriseed at +26(0)21184-7735 or +26(0)95-084-7735, or info@stewardsglobe.com. Visit them at www.stewardsglobe.com or Afriseed House, Plot 19286, Mungwi Road P.O. Box 37771, Lusaka for more information.

45

Imtec Sales SKF Products and engineering solutions

Challenge power transmission parts

Ball and roller bearings Industrial and automotive bearings and kits Mining and special application bearings Agricultural bearings and oil seals Condition based monitoring

V and Wedge belts All types of couplings Conveyor and agricultural chains

Fasteners, bolts, nuts, washers etc.

Sparex Tractor spares and agricultural equipment

Bolts and nuts - MS, HT, SS, EG Threaded bars - SC, EG

Massey Ferguson Ford / New Holland Fiat Case International Landini and Tafe

Workshop accessories Welding accessories Workshop tools - general

Tivoly Cutting and drilling tools for:

Agricultural implements and parts Plough and harrow discs - Ovfas Kongskilde parts - range of tips Ground engaging tools and accessories Twist drills - HSS, SDS MAX

46

Concrete, Masonry, Metal, Plastic, Glass, Tile, Hardwood and Composite boards

COPPER BELT

LUSAKA

CENTRAL PROVINCE

SOUTHERN PROVINCE

Tel: +260 212 511 242 Cell: +260 979 773 830 alves@imtec.co.zm

Tel: +260 211 235 383 / 221 085 Cell: +260 978 217 217 imtec@zamnet.zm

Tel: +260 215 362 040 Cell: +260 964 355 746 anitraptors@gmail.com

Tel: +260 213 225 030 Cell: +260 978 777 919 greensolutions.sales@gmail.com

Johnson’s Arcade, Corner of Zaona Avenue & 16th Street, Luanshya

Plot 1663, Panganani Road, Lusaka P.O Box CH 310220

Raptor R us Plot 12/13, Buteko Avenue, Mkushi

Green Solutions Ltd. P.O Box 630 358, Choma

ProAgri Zambia 53

SUCCESSFUL FIRST WEEK OF LIFE Achieving success in the first week of life will lead to subsequent success in health, productivity and profitability later in the bird’s life

During the first week of life (be it breeders, broilers, layers) need special care and attention to make a good start.

The chicks are expected and required to adapt quickly to new conditions and new feed and water sources during a period when they are unable to regulate their own body temperature in addition to the stress they go through to adjust to the new environment. It is therefore very important that conditions during the first week of life provide the optimal environment and easy access to feed, water and essential supplements/ medication Product

Dosage

Duration

Fosbac Plus T

One heaped teaspoon per 5ℓ of water continuously

First 5 days of life

Stress Care L

0.5 ml per 1ℓ of water continuously

First 7 days of life

Bedgen 40 Liquid

1ml per ℓ of water continuously

First 7 days of life

+27 (0) 803 4376/9564/9735/4463 pharma@bupoah.co.za Cnr Axle and Battery Street Willow Business Park Silverton | Pretoria

www.bupoanimalhealth.com

ProAgri Zambia 53

47

Available from a Distributor near you

@BupoAH

@BupoAH

@BupoAnimalHealth

a UNITURTLE enterprise...

Cell: 0974 990928 / 0973 142990 Fax: 0211287528/0211 287611 Email: infolime@uniturtle.com

Chivuna, Mazabuka Tel: 03 233069

Lime Your Fields, Get Better Yields

Plot 12913, Mumbwa Road

Get better Yields: Using Turtle Agri-Lime!

Tel: 286057 / 286064 / 286258

Also available: Stock Feed lime & Stock Feed Grit

FOR EACH TON OF FERTILISER, THE SOIL NEEDS ONE TON OF LIME

Mayo Agro Services

ADVERTISE HERE!

Nurturing Nature

The home of top quality Vegetable Seedlings. We nurture nature for your success.

Zainab pandor +26 (0)97 769 9786 zainab@proagri.co.za

Xander pieterse +27 (0)79 524 0934 xander@proagri.co.za

Gerhard Potgieter +27 (0)74 694 4422 gerhard@proagri.co.za

Anelda Strauss +27 (0)74 424 0055 anelda@proagri.co.za

Johan Swartz +27 (0)71 599 9417 johan@proagri.co.za

Tiny Smith +27 (0)82 698 3353 tiny@proagri.co.za

Contact us: Location: Plot 288A S/D s makeni, Lusaka Phone: +260 966 220 076 +260 962 723 713 Email: mayoagro@gmail.com Facebook : Mayo Agro Services

48

ProAgri Zambia 53

STARKE AYRES SEEDS ARE: • • • •

HIGH GERMINATION TRUE TO TYPE DISEASE FREE SEALED AIRTIGHT TO PRESERVE QUALITY Contact us on 0977-740-180 (Office line) or Mark Stokes on 0965-901-233 email: mark.stokes@starkeayres.com

ProAgri Zambia 53

49

50

ProAgri Zambia 53