More than 100 farmers from provinces including Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Gauteng and Free State attended the recent African Farming Farmers’ Day at the Vleissentraal Auction Centre in Ermelo, Mpumalanga.

The event lived up to the African Farming Farmers’ Day experience by providing valuable insights and advice for farmers on various topics. It illustrated how small changes to farming operations can significantly impact a farmer’s profitability.

Drawing from the disappointing results of the previous season, which were caused by drought and severe heatwaves, Caiphus Muyambo, Pannar’s sales agent and farmer development manager, emphasised the importance of understanding different cultivars and their potential in relation to specific regions.

Caiphus said Pannar, a company with a history dating back to 1958, has played a key role in developing a wide range of seed cultivars, including maize, soybeans, sorghum, sunflower, and wheat, ensuring that farmers have access to the best seed varieties for their unique conditions.

Here are the key points Caiphus highlighted:

• Before planting, farmers should speak to an agent who can connect them with an agronomist. The Pannar team provides guidance to farmers based on local climate and soil conditions, helping them make informed decisions about the best seed variety for their specific regional conditions.

• While seeds come with a certain yield potential, it’s the farmers’ responsibility to manage their crops effectively to achieve that potential. Proper management is crucial, especially in tough conditions, and can significantly increase yield. The choice of seed variety should be tailored to the specific needs of the region. For example, in high-rainfall areas, medium to late maturity varieties are often recommended.

• Finding a mentor, an experienced local farmer, is essential. Young and aspiring farmers can learn from those who have been in the industry for years. They can also attend workshops and events to gain valuable insights and avoid common mistakes.

• Engaging with experts such as agronomists and breeders provides a deeper understanding of how to manage crops effectively and make the most of available resources.

• Farmers should use available technology to make informed decisions, such as considering weather forecasts for the upcoming season. By making informed choices about seed varieties and management practices based on improved weather outlooks, they can turn past challenges into opportunities for growth and success.