Grow through what you go through

After our recent visit to the Agritech expo in Chisamba, I clearly realised that not everything coming from Europe or America is necessarily good and right for Africa, but they have been mechanising agriculture for a very long time, using the right machine for the right job to farm more productively and make more money.

In a recent high-level dialogue meeting, which I think we can take to mind as well, President Hakainde Hichilema reiterated his desire to be prudent with public resources by avoiding wastage. He even does not want to live a luxurious life because it does not add any value to governing the country. According to Hichilema, the agricultural sector in Africa faces numerous challenges, including low levels of mechanisation and irrigation, restricted availability of cost-effective agricultural financing and credit, and slow investment in research and development pursuits.

Hichilema reiterated the need to “reverse the trend” and ensure that the majority of the people have access to affordable, nutritious and safe food, as well as improved livelihoods. He urged African nations to formulate smart policies and make financial investments that will foster advancement and comprehensive involvement in the agricultural value chain. I think an important thing that came to mind when reading the President’s statements is the fact that commercial farmers should help train the next generation.

In our cover story, Sakkie Bibbey, farmer east from Verkykerskop, relies on his trusty Zimmatic pivot to keep his crops well irrigated! Read on page 3 why Sakkie chose Zimmatic as his trusted irrigation partner. If you haven’t heard of John Deere’s SMART programme and how they assist farmers all over Africa, be sure to turn to page 5 and read the full article.

We also touch on more highlights of the 2023 Agritech expo in case you have missed some of the excitement! What is happening on your farm this winter?

I would love to hear from you! Get in touch with me by sending me an e-mail.

ProAgri greetings

Bianca Henning – bianca@proagri.co.za