Young inventor Jedri Janse van Rensburg impressed judges at this year’s Nampo Harvest Day with his automated dip spray system for small and large livestock.
By Lebogang Mashala, editor at African Farming
His innovation secured third place in the modified machinery, implements and agricultural equipment category of the Farmer Plans Competition, hosted by Landbouweekblad, Grain SA and Omnia during the event in Bothaville.
The automated dipping system, designed for both small and large livestock, reflects Janse van Rensburg’s passion for developing practical, labour-saving solutions that address everyday challenges faced by farmers.
The device uses recycled electric gate sensors to detect animals as they enter the crush, automatically activating a pump that sprays them with dipping solution.
The system reduces labour requirements while ensuring more consistent application of animal health treatments.
According to Jedri, the equipment is highly versatile and can easily be adapted for use with cattle. It can also be dismantled and converted into a firefighting unit, making it useful for a variety of farm applications.
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One machine, multiple uses
The firefighting component was originally designed and built by his father, Michris. The Backsaver firefighter is a lightweight, affordable and mobile fire suppression unit developed for smallholder farms and rural properties.
Powered by a 12-volt battery-operated pump, the unit is highly portable and can be mounted on a bakkie or small trailer, enabling farmers to respond quickly to veld fires and other emergencies.
This multi-purpose approach means farmers can get more value from a single piece of equipment, an important consideration in an environment where budgets are often tight.
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