Beekeeping, or apiculture, is a sustainable and lucrative agricultural venture that focuses on the production of honey and bee wax. With rising demand for natural products, this business offers significant revenue potential while contributing to environmental conservation through pollination. This article provides a detailed overview of starting a beekeeping enterprise, including costs, processes, market insights, and risks.

HARARE, ZIMBABWE | 9 February 2025 — In a landmark move to bolster food security and strengthen land tenure, the Government of Zimbabwe has rolled out a nationwide initiative to issue Title Deeds to farmers holding valid land tenure documents. The program, spearheaded by the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs, aims to formalize land ownership and unlock economic opportunities for farmers.

Sunflowers are one of the most important oilseed crops in Southern Africa, valued for their high oil content, which is used in cooking oil and margarine production. The by-product, sunflower cake, is also an excellent livestock feed. Sunflowers are a low-input crop, making them ideal for marginal areas and small-scale farmers. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully grow sunflowers, from soil preparation to harvesting.

Agriculture is a cornerstone of livelihoods and economies worldwide, and selecting the right crops is essential for maximising productivity and profitability. Farmers must evaluate several factors to make informed decisions about crop selection and cropping systems. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choices for your farm.

by Rawlings Kofi
Harare, Zimbabwe – In a heartwarming display of corporate social responsibility, SeedCo, a leading agricultural company, has donated a total of US9,060 to two charitable institutions: Mutemwa Leprosy Centre in Mutoko and Ida Wekwako Old People’s Home in Marondera. 4,530 to support their ongoing efforts to care for vulnerable members of the community.

The selection of bulls is a critical decision for beef ranchers, as bulls contribute 50% of the genetic potential to their offspring. A well-chosen bull can significantly enhance meat production and overall herd quality. This article provides detailed insights into the characteristics to look for and management practices to adopt when selecting a breeding bull.

In many agricultural sectors, farmers face a daunting challenge—having little to no control over market prices. As "price-takers," individual farmers often sell their produce at prevailing market rates, unable to demand higher prices. This dynamic underscores a pressing issue: the need for farmers to find strategies that increase their market influence and profitability.

Dairy farming thrives on balanced nutrition, and integrating by-products and processed feeds into rations can significantly improve milk yields and overall herd health. These feed options provide essential nutrients and reduce reliance on traditional fodder, offering a cost-effective way to optimise production. Here is a detailed look at commonly used feeds, their advantages, and best practices for their use.

Efficient beef production is not only about raising cattle but also about managing herds effectively to achieve maximum productivity. One of the critical aspects is designing a sound production strategy, especially concerning the timing of calving. This article explores the benefits and considerations of calving just before the rainy season, emphasizing key goals such as stabilizing herd numbers, optimizing weight management, improving reproductive performance, minimizing mortality, and preserving grazing quality.

Water is a critical resource for agriculture, yet its availability is increasingly threatened by climate change and erratic rainfall patterns. To address these challenges, water harvesting has emerged as a vital solution, allowing farmers to optimize water use, increase crop yields, and enhance resilience. This article explores various water harvesting techniques and their practical applications in sustainable farming.

Dear Farmer,
In the rhythm of farming life, trees might seem like an obstacle or just another source of firewood. But before you reach for that axe or chainsaw, let’s pause for a moment to think beyond the immediate benefit. Cutting down a tree isn’t just removing wood from the landscape—it’s removing life, stability, and a connection to the ecosystem that supports your farm and your future.

Choosing the most suitable tillage system for a specific farming operation is a critical management decision. Historically, the intensive use of mouldboard ploughs, discs, harrows, and cultivators was the dominant method for crop establishment and weed control. However, advances in herbicides and tillage equipment have expanded the options available to farmers.

When calves are weaned, they face a critical period of adjustment. Weaning marks the end of milk consumption and often involves separation from the dam. This sudden change in diet and loss of maternal security can lead to post-weaning stress, affecting the calf's growth, health, and productivity. Here’s how farmers can minimize stress and ensure calves develop into strong, productive animals.

Rabbit breeding is a fascinating yet intricate process that requires an in-depth understanding of reproductive cycles, gestation periods, and practical management practices. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rabbit farmer, mastering these elements is key to maximizing productivity and maintaining healthy breeding stock.

When you spend as much time with livestock as most keepers do, you develop an innate sense of what’s normal—and what’s not. Recognizing the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs of health and disease in your animals is critical to ensuring their wellbeing and productivity. Whether you're managing a herd of cows, a flock of goats, or a small poultry farm, understanding these indicators can save you time, money, and heartache.