Duncan Masiwa

Cape Town

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Articles

Broilers: Small-scale success starts with these steps

1 week ago | foodformzansi.co.za | Duncan Masiwa

Ready to raise your first batch of broilers but not sure what’s needed to get started? From infrastructure and feed to disease control and load shedding, setting up a broiler operation in South Africa requires more than just good intentions; it takes planning, budgeting, and a strong grasp of the basics. This beginner-friendly guide walks you through the essential building blocks of broiler production, helping you avoid costly mistakes and prepare for real-world challenges.
The Beyoncé of cattle: Linda lets her Brahmans do the talking

1 week ago | foodformzansi.co.za | Duncan Masiwa

Linda Mthalane knew the odds were stacked against her when she started farming cattle. She was young, a woman, and had spent most of her life working in the corridors of a four-star hotel. On top of that, she had married into a deeply traditional family where cattle farming was long considered a man’s domain. What could she possibly know about handling large animals, performing vaccinations, dehorning, or negotiating livestock sales? The village whispered.
Cape Agritech Connect: Farming’s future lies in tech and teamwork

2 weeks ago | foodformzansi.co.za | Duncan Masiwa

The future of farming demands embracing technology while prioritising human relationships and collaborations. This was the key message from speakers during the Cape Agritech Connect 2025. Hosted by the Stellenbosch Network and Stellenbosch University’s Launch Lab, the event brought together leading voices in agriculture, technology, and policy to explore the future of food production and rural innovation within the Western Cape.
Why red meat producers can’t afford to ignore sustainability

2 weeks ago | foodformzansi.co.za | Duncan Masiwa

Sustainability is a term that is often loosely used; however, for South Africa’s red meat producers, it’s non-negotiable. Those who do not adapt won’t survive. Frik van Rooyen, deputy-chairman of the National Red Meat Producers’ Organisation (RPO), shares a practical perspective on what sustainable red meat production entails and why it matters. When it comes to working with natural resources such as water and grass, Van Rooyen explains that it requires a strategic farm management approach.
Beyond the cellar: Where grapes grow, so do dreams

2 weeks ago | foodformzansi.co.za | Duncan Masiwa

After 44 years of working in agriculture, half of which have been dedicated to the wine industry, Rydal Jeftha, managing director of Koopmanskloof Wines, understands why skills and knowledge transfer is important, especially in South Africa’s wine industry. “South Africa’s wine industry is as good as its people. People development skills and knowledge transfer are key to success,” he says in an interview with Food For Mzansi.
Protect your farm: Legal landmines you can’t afford to ignore

2 weeks ago | foodformzansi.co.za | Duncan Masiwa

A new generation of farmers is emerging. They are young, driven, and often breaking into agriculture without the safety net of generational wealth. These new-era farmers, while innovative and resilient, step into an industry often riddled with legal complications. To better understand the legal pitfalls facing these farmers and how to overcome them, Food For Mzansi sat down with Pearl Gibbs, an attorney, conveyancer, and notary public. Gibbs has seen and heard it all.
New documentary uncorks education and opportunities in wine

3 weeks ago | foodformzansi.co.za | Duncan Masiwa

What began as a simple initiative to improve the opportunities for wine industry professionals has become a powerful movement to rewrite the future of South Africa’s wine industry. The South African Wine Industry Professional Body (SAWIPB) has released its second mini-documentary, spotlighting personal stories of transformation and the organisation’s mission to ensure every individual has a chance to grow professionally, personally, and sustainably within the wine sector.
Growing beyond disability: Harry farms with heart and hope

3 weeks ago | foodformzansi.co.za | Duncan Masiwa

Harry Shikweni from Tzaneen, Limpopo, spent 20 years working as a welder in his hometown until a tragic accident changed everything and left him with a disability. However, that did not hold him back. When he realised he could still use his other hand to grow food, farming as a business became a real option. For years, he saw farming as something simple. Grow food in your garden, eat fresh, and that was it. Life, however, had other plans. The disability made him see things differently.
Winter gardening: Turn cold days into cropping gold

3 weeks ago | foodformzansi.co.za | Duncan Masiwa

As winter’s chill sets in across South Africa, the perfect window for planting a range of cool-season crops has arrived. While some crops can grow year-round, others thrive best during these colder months, offering a fresh start for both novice and seasoned growers. In a recent Health For Mzansi article, Mzansi farmers and agronomists share their insights on winter planting, dropping valuable tips for anyone eager to cultivate a thriving garden or farm.
Young chefs sizzle in junior red meat competition

3 weeks ago | foodformzansi.co.za | Duncan Masiwa

Future culinary stars are heating up the kitchen as they prepare to battle it out in the Red Meat Producers’ Organisation Northern Cape Junior Chef of the Year 2025 competition. The RPO Northern Cape recently hosted its second semi-final for the competition, where the young chefs impressed with their exceptional dishes in a fiercely competitive cook-off. According to the organisers, they are placing the spotlight on youth participation, particularly in projects centred on consumer education.