The Dairy Mail Nov 2025

Vol 32 • No 11 • NOVEMBER 2025

R46,50 incl VAT • ISSN: 1561-4301

BIOMETRIESE

IDENTIFIKASIE:

Die nuwe era van Veebestuur

en Melkproduksie

The hidden

pitfalls of

MYCOTOXINS

IN THIS ISSUE: SILAGE CROPS PART 5 | TRADING CARBON CREDITS

FLY MANAGEMENT | HOE OM ’N WERKSPAN GEMOTIVEERD EN GEÏNSPIREERD TE HOU

BEAT THE HEAT

WITH SLICK GENETICS

Cattle in environments with constant outside temperatures above 21° Celsius and humidity above 50% are subject to heat stress.

The slick allele, through its thermo-control mechanisms, combined with management efforts such as fans and sprinklers, reduces the negative effects of heat stress.

SUPERIOR QUALITY SLICK SIRES FROM WWS BCN | KC HHP$ ® CFP REL. %

9HO16849 ICE CUBE-S

Frost Bite x Parfect x Lone Ranger

9HO17089 INTHEFIRE-S

Confidential x Parfect x Lone Ranger

9HO17213 THISJUSTIN-S

Confidential x Gameday x Lone Ranger

9HO17356 EZE-S

Achieve x Parfect x Lone Ranger

9HO17469 VALEZ-S

Sheepster x Gameday x Lone Ranger

9HO17743 GLOWSTICK-S

Sundance x Frost Bite x Parfect

A2A2 | AB 668 107 82

A2A2 | AB 712 74 80

A2A2 | AB 657 81 79

A2A2 | AB 722 101 81

A1A1 | AB 754 135 79

A2A2 | BB 722 76 80

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL WWS

GENETIC ADVISOR FOR MORE

INFORMATION ON HOW YOU CAN

ADD HIGH QUALITY SLICK

GENETICS TO YOUR HERD!

®

GForce and gender SELECTED are trademarks

WORLD WIDE SIRES

S O U T H A F R I C A

B THE DAIRY MAIL • NOVEMBER 2025

HERE FOR YOU.

wwsires.com

of Select Sires Inc. ® Mastitis ResistantPRO,

GrazingPRO, RobotPRO and HHP$ are registered

trademarks of Select Sires Inc. Ultraplus is a

trademark of STGen LLC. All gender SELECTED

semen is processed using Ultraplus technology.

Evaluations for non-conformation traits are

Powered by CDCB unless otherwise noted.

08/25 CDCB data.

NOVEMBER

– The final stretch

before year-end

by Fanie Ferreira, MPO

SOOS ONS DIT SIEN • AS WE SEE IT

November is about

maintaining momentum

and laying the groundwork

for a smooth transition

into the new year.

November marks the second-last

chapter of 2025 - a month that feels

like the calm before the festive season,

yet it is anything but quiet for the dairy

industry. This month sits at the crossroads of

reflection and renewal: a time to consolidate

efforts, keep production steady, and ensure

that herds and systems are ready for the

challenges of summer.

While December will bring the year to

a close, November is about maintaining

momentum and laying the groundwork for a

smooth transition into the new year. Across

the country, producers are sharpening

feeding strategies, monitoring forage quality

and reinforcing herd health protocols to

manage heat stress and maintain milk flow.

Processors and buyers are equally focused

on stability - balancing demand, pricing

and supply commitments as the holiday

season approaches.

What continues to stand out is the

sector’s resilience. Despite rising input

costs, environmental pressures and evolving

consumer expectations, dairy remains a

cornerstone of South African agriculture. This

strength comes from adaptability, innovation

and collaboration - qualities that define our

industry. November reminds us that success

is built on consistency and foresight. As we

wrap up 2025 and prepare for the final sprint

into December, the focus is clear: efficiency,

resilience and profitability. The Dairy Mail is

here to keep you informed and inspired as we

navigate this crucial period together.

Fanie Ferreira

NOVEMBER 2025 • THE DAIRY MAIL 1

2 THE DAIRY MAIL • NOVEMBER 2025

Plastic containers for the industrial,

agricultural & food markets

FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK

A year of

RECKONING, a

year of RECOVERY

This has been one of the toughest years

I have seen in dairy. The Foot-and-

Mouth Disease outbreak shook the

foundations of our industry. Producers across

the country faced quarantines, movement

restrictions and culling infected animals.

In KwaZulu-Natal, many farmers carried

devastating losses. The emotional toll has

been as severe as the financial one.

The ripple effects touched everyone.

Processors scrambled to maintain supply.

Retailers managed consumer concerns.

Veterinary services stretched to breaking

point. For an industry that depends on rhythm

and routine, the chaos was profound.

But I have also witnessed remarkable

resilience during this crisis. Vaccinations are

now rolling out systematically. Feed costs

are finally softening after years of pressure.

Consumer demand for dairy products remains

stable. In some categories, it’s actually

growing. There is genuine momentum

building beneath the surface.

What stood out most this year is how

collaboration carried us through the

darkest months. When farmers shared what

worked, the industry learned faster. When

industry bodies like the MPO coordinated

rapid responses, confidence held. When

government stepped up with veterinary

support and vaccination programmes, the tide

began to turn.

This crisis has proven something

fundamental. We cannot face these

challenges in isolation. No single producer,

processor or official body can tackle systemic

threats alone. Our strength lies in our

connections. Our collective success depends

on supporting even the most vulnerable

operations in the chain.

My hope now is simple. We must continue

to learn from each other and stand together

through whatever challenges lie ahead.

We must rebuild this industry stronger

and more resilient than before. The dairy

sector has always been defined by the

dedication of its people. This year tested that

dedication. It held.

Jacques Basson

Publisher, The Dairy Mail

CONTACT US

BYE-BYE BUZZZZZ…


CONTENTS INHOUDSOPGAWE

45

54

1 Soos ons dit sien • As we see it

3 From the publisher’s desk

7 Meet the team | Suiwelkalender

BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

8 Biometriese Identifikasie: Die nuwe era

van Veebestuur en Melkproduksie

12 Russia’s dairy industry flourishing

under pressure

16 Transem (Pty) Ltd se Jaarlikse

Toekenningsgeleentheid

19 Meesters van Melk: LNR kroon

Suid‐Afrika se top-suiwelboere

22 Dairy economic indicators

28 Dairy digits

31 Kortliks • Briefly

PRODUKSIE • PRODUCTION

32 Silage crops: Part 5 ~ Lucerne silage

37 The hidden pitfalls of mycotoxins

41 Spotting SARA early: Four ways to

protect your herd

RENTMEESTERSKAP • STEWARDSHIP

45 Carbon credit trading – opportunity

or pitfall?

50 Fly Management: Protecting your herd

and your profits

BESTUUR • MANAGEMENT

54 Fertility indicators for the South African

Jersey breed

58 Labour column

Payments Due Upon Termination


INHOUD • CONTENTS

60

Produced by

Editorial contributions

Email: content@maxmediagroup.co.za

Advertising & rates

Email: sales@maxmediagroup.co.za

Ilse Liveris • Tel: 072 708 4401

NAVORSING EN OPLEIDING •

RESEARCH AND TRAINING

60 Research column

Revisiting Bovine Somatotropin

65 Hoe om ’n werkspan gemotiveerd en

geïnspireerd te hou

MOO-VING WHEELS

69 South Africa’s freight sector:

Slowly getting back on track

Charlene Bam • Tel: 061 500 7991

Accounts & subscriptions

Email: charlene@maxmediagroup.co.za

Charlene Bam • Tel: 061 500 7991

PS. Remember to

capture the essence of

dairy farming wherever

you farm.

Mail your photographs

and a short discription to

content@maxmediagroup.co.za

Expressions of opinion, claims and statements of supposed

facts do not necessarily reflect the views of The Dairy Mail,

editor, or publisher. While every effort is made to report

accurately, The Dairy Mail, the publisher, or the editor do not

accept any liability regarding any statement, advertisement,

fact, or recommendation made in this magazine.

ISSN: 1561-4301

An initiative of the MPO,

published monthly | PO Box 1284,

Pretoria 0001, South Africa

www.dairymail.co.za

Milk Producers’ Organisation,

referred to as MPO

South African Milk Processors’

Organisation, referred to as SAMPRO

Milk South Africa,

referred to as Milk SA


The Governor Advantage

Governor Perennial Ryegrass from Barenbrug isn’t just another

pasture - it’s the benchmark for performance, persistence, and profit.

WHY FARMERS CHOOSE GOVERNOR

• High, Reliable Yields: Consistently strong dry-matter production to keep pastures dense and

herds performing.

• Weed Warrior: Its dense growth habit naturally combats weeds, reducing the need for

chemical herbicides.

• Serious Tillering Power: Governor's vigorous tillering leads to persistence, reducing the

hassle of replanting.

• Handles the Tough Times: Sustained growth in dry conditions supports a steady pasture

supply on the shoulders of the season, when conditions become difficult.

• Milk-Boosting Wonder: Governor's high dry matter yield guarantees well-fed,

milk-producing cows all season long.

Tested, Verified, and Certified!

Experience the confidence of planting a perennial ryegrass that delivers—year after year.

Available countrywide

Tel: 021 979 1303 | info@barenbrug.co.za

www.barenbrug.co.za


MEET THE TEAM

THAT CARES:

SWITCHBOARD: 012 843 5600

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Fanie Ferreira fanie@mpo.co.za 083 453 9339

COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Carina Pieterse carina@mpo.co.za 079 458 5497

AGRICULTURAL ECONOMIC SERVICES

Bertus van Heerden bertus@mpo.co.za 083 300 3667

ECONOMIST

Jade Smith jade@mpo.co.za 076 712 7395

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Wessel Steyn wessel@mpo.co.za 082 896 8116

MEMBER SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

Yolanda Strydom yolanda.s@mpo.co.za 072 371 1893

Anneke Kubannek anneke@mpo.co.za 071 875 1488

REGIONS

MPO WESTERN CAPE

Lize Marié du Toit lizem@mpo.co.za 076 774 1284

MPO NORTH

Mnandi Kruger north@mpo.co.za 073 116 8544

MPO KWAZULU-NATAL

Bianca Johnston kzn@mpo.co.za 060 945 1735

MPO EASTERN CAPE

Anri Wolmarans ec@mpo.co.za 064 934 3951

TRAINING AND TRANSFORMATION SERVICES

Ronald Rapholo ronald@mpo.co.za 082 734 4433

SOME EVENTS TO

LOOK FORWARD TO

4–6 DESEMBER 2025

Tulbagh skou

1 Van Der Stel St,

Tulbagh

5–6 DESEMBER 2025

26–28 FEBRUARIE 2026

Bieliemieliefees

Reitz, Oos-Vrystaat

Loxton skou-enboeredag

Loxton Landbouskougronde,

Loxton

9–10 MAY 2026

KZN MPO Dairy Fest

Fordoun Hotel and Spa

Farm Village

Weens herhaaldelike kragonderbrekings ondervind

ons probleme met ons skakelbord. Vir die toekoms

word aanbeveel dat u ons span direk op hulle

selfoonnommers kontak. Ons wil graag met u gesels.

Due to repeated power outages, we are experiencing

problems with our switchboard. In future, we recommend

that you contact our team directly on their mobile numbers.

We would like to talk to you.

23 APRIL – 2 MAY 2026

Bloem Show

Bloemfontein

show grounds

Dairy Mail - IntelliBond Banner Ads (June 2025)print.pdf 1 2025/05/08 08:55

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K


SKANDEER of KLIK

om te kyk of luister

BIOMETRIESE

IDENTIFIKASIE:

Die nuwe era van

Veebestuur en Melkproduksie

deur The Dairy Mail Redaksie

Die Suid-Afrikaanse veebedryf

staan op die drumpel van ’n digitale

transformasie. Kundiges van ID-Scan,

’n trots Suid-Afrikaanse maatskappy,

gebaseer in Centurion, beklemtoon

dat biometriese identiteit nie net ’n

tegnologie is nie, maar ’n strategie

wat veesekuriteit, naspeurbaarheid

en presisieboerdery in Suid-Afrika

kan herdefinieer.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Wat is Biometriese Identiteit?

Biometriese identifikasie gebruik unieke,

onveranderlike fisiese kenmerke om individue

te identifiseer. By mense is dit vingerafdrukke

en gesigskenmerke; by vee is dit die

snoetafdruk – ’n patroon wat lewenslank

konstant bly en nie vervals kan word nie.

“Die natuur herhaal homself nooit presies

nie – en dit is die beginsel waarop biometrie

rus,” verduidelik die ID-Scan span.

Die Tegnologie Agter ID-Scan

ID-Scan gebruik ’n slimfoonkamera om die

unieke snoetpatroon van elke bees vas te

lê en ’n digitale identiteit te skep. Hierdie

biometriese ID is:

» Nie-indringend en koste-effektief –

ongeveer R100 per dier per jaar

» Onvervalsbaar – selfs as diewe probeer

skade aanrig

» Funksioneel – aanlyn én vanlyn

» Gekoppel aan ’n Lewensboek – ’n

volledige geskiedenis van beweging,

behandelings en transaksies

“Ons doel is om die dier se snoetafdruk te

maak wat die vingerafdruk vir mense is – ’n

biometriese sleutel wat nie vervals kan

word nie,” sê Bian Jooste, voorsitter van die

ID-Scan raad.

Veediefstal kos die bedryf miljoene

rande per jaar en melkprodusente word

veral hard getref. SAPS-statistiek toon

tienduisende gevalle van veediefstal per

kwartaal. Tradisionele identifikasiemetodes

soos oormerkies en brandmerke kan

maklik verwyder of vervals word, wat

vervolging bemoeilik.

“Die grootste probleem is dat diewe alle

identifiseerders verwyder – oormerkies,

brandmerke, selfs tatoeëring. As jy nie

eienaarskap kan bewys nie, is vervolging

onmoontlik. Snoetafdrukke kan nie verwyder

of vervals word nie,” beklemtoon Jooste.

10000

9000

8000

Sonder biometrie

Met ID-Scan

Verlies (R)

7000

6000

5000

4000

3000

2 4 6 8 10 12

Maand

Figuur 1: Illustratiewe diefstalbesparing oor 12 maande


Voordele vir Melkprodusente

Melkkoeie is hoëwaarde-diere met ’n lang

produksiesiklus. Elke verlies het ’n groot

finansiële impak.

Biometriese identifikasie bied:

» Permanente bewys van eienaarskap en

beskerming teen diefstal.

» Naspeurbaarheid vir premium markte en

uitvoervereistes.

» Betroubare data vir versekering en

finansiering.

» Presisie-bestuur deur koppeling van

gesondheidsdata en produksiegeskiedenis

aan ’n onveranderlike ID.

» Plaas-tot-tafel deursigtigheid – QR-kodes

op verpakking versterk vertroue en maak

toegang tot wêreldmarkte moontlik.

Hoe werk ID-Scan

Stap-vir-stap proses:

» Skandeer: Neem ’n hoë-resolusie foto

van die snoet met die ID-Scan -app

(aanlyn of vanlyn).

» Verifieer & enkripteer: Die toepassing

kontroleer beeldkwaliteit en

enkripteer die data.

» Oplaai: Data word gesinkroniseer wanneer

konnektiwiteit beskikbaar is.

» Vergelyk: Die snoetafdruk word met

die databasis vergelyk vir identifikasie/

verifikasie.

» Lewensboek: Alle gebeure (behandelings,

verkope, bewegings) word aan die

biometriese ID gekoppel.

ID-Scan Proseskaart vir

snoetafdruk-biometrie

Skandeering

(slimfoonkamera)

Kwaliteitkontrole

& enkripsie

Oplaai

(aanlyn / vanlyn)

Vergelyking

(databasis)

Verifikasie

& Lewensboek

Figuur 2: ID-SCAN Proses


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Praktiese Wenke vir Boere

Integreer biometrie met bestaande

RFID-stelsels vir daaglikse bestuur.

Sluit aan by provinsiale programme

soos Vrystaat Landbou se gratis

registrasie-inisiatief.

Skep ’n digitale dossier vir elke

dier met foto’s, snoetafdruk en

behandelingsgeskiedenis.

Lei jou span op in korrekte skandering

en data-integriteit.

Biometriese identifikasie is nie meer ’n

luukse nie – dit is ’n noodsaaklikheid vir ’n

moderne, volhoubare melkbedryf. Dit beskerm

jou kudde, bou vertroue by versekeraars en

kopers, en plaas Suid-Afrikaanse boere op die

wêreldkaart van innovasie.

Kyk na die volledige gesprek met

die ID-Scan span in die Herkouerspodcast

op YouTube vir meer insigte en

praktiese wenke.

SKANDEER of KLIK

om te kyk of luister


RUSSIA’S

DAIRY INDUSTRY

flourishing under pressure

by Hanlie du Plessis

When Western sanctions hit Russia’s agricultural

sector in 2014, few would have predicted that the

country’s dairy industry would emerge stronger than

ever a decade later. Yet, ten years after the food

embargo began, the Russian dairy sector stands as a

model of rapid adaptation, strategic investment and

remarkable growth – a case study in how adversity

can accelerate self-reliance and innovation.

A decade of transformation

According to Soyuzmoloko – officially known

as the National Union of Milk Producers

of Russia – total investment in the dairy

sector since the embargo has exceeded

1,4 trillion (1,4 trillion rubles; ~R300 billion),

with 460 billion (~R99 billion) directed

toward processing facilities and over 1 trillion

(~R214 billion) to raw milk production.

This influx of capital was driven largely

by necessity; imports of dairy products fell

by 32% and European suppliers, who had

previously dominated the Russian market,

were replaced mainly by producers from

Belarus and a handful of ‘friendly’ nations.

The results speak for themselves. Russia’s

self-sufficiency in dairy products has risen

from 77% in 2013 to 87% in 2023. Production

of cheese is up by 132%, cream by 205%,

whole milk powder by 222% and skimmed milk

powder by 104%.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

“The sanctions, while undoubtedly

challenging, became a catalyst for

domestic growth,” said Artem Belov, chief

executive officer of Soyuzmoloko. “They

forced the industry to invest, innovate and

build resilience.”

Rebuilding the raw milk base

One of the most striking outcomes of this

enforced transformation has been the steady

growth in raw milk production. Between

2013 and 2023, Russia’s total milk output

increased by 13,2%, from 29,9 million to 33,8

million tonnes. More importantly, the share of

marketable milk – milk sold through organised,

traceable channels – grew by 38%, reaching

25,8 million tonnes.

On modernised farms, dairy productivity

has surged. The average yield per cow in

agricultural enterprises rose by 81% to more

than 8 165 kg annually. “Today, all raw milk is in

demand and prices are rising,” noted Georgy

Zhitmarev of the Piskarevsky Dairy Plant, a

major dairy processing enterprise located

in Saint Petersburg. “Old farms are being

reconstructed, new ones are being built and

efficiency has become the focus.”

Government support has played a pivotal

role. Over 380 billion (~R82 billion) in public

funds were allocated to the dairy sector

between 2013 and 2023, with subsidies

for equipment, breeding programmes and

regional milk-processing initiatives.

Consumers driving

domestic growth

Russian consumers also contributed to the

sector’s strength. Over the past decade,

local demand for dairy products has grown

consistently: cheese consumption rose by

42%, butter by 32%, ice cream by 35% and

sour cream by 10%. For a country known for

its love of dairy-rich cuisine, the embargo

initially threatened shortages – but it

ended up inspiring a renaissance in homegrown

production.

Cheese

No part of the Russian dairy sector better

illustrates this transformation than the cheese

industry. Before 2014, imported European

cheeses dominated the shelves of Russian

supermarkets. After the embargo, those

imports disappeared almost overnight –

forcing local producers to fill the gap.

More than 100 billion (~R21 billion) –

around 20% of total processing investment

– has since flowed into cheese-making. In

ten years, cheese production has more than

doubled to 801 000 t annually, while cheeseproduct

output reached 193 000 t.

This growth has been fuelled by both new

ventures and established players. Neva Milk

Group was one of the first to implement an

import-substitution project with its ‘Sirtaki’

feta-style cheese in 2014. Produced at the


Severnoe Moloko plant in Vologda, Sirtaki

is now one of Russia’s most popular white

cheeses, distributed in over 80 regions.

In 2023, Neva Milk opened another plant in

Kursk, producing semi-hard and hard cheeses

– including ‘Alpenberg’, a locally developed

variety with no European equivalent.

Other major investors, such as AgriVolga

and EkoNiva, have followed similar paths.

EkoNiva, one of Russia’s largest dairy holdings,

increased its cheese output sevenfold in

2023 alone, reaching 8 300 t, while total

dairy production climbed 70% to 279 500 t.

“We didn’t just want to copy mozzarella or

Parmesan,” said Alexey Maslennikov, EkoNiva’s

deputy general director. “We wanted to build

a new culture around Russian cheeses – and

to export that culture to the world.”

Modernisation and localisation

The embargo years also drove an

unprecedented wave of modernisation.

The historic Uglich cheese and dairy plant,

for example, was acquired and overhauled

by AgriVolga between 2018 and 2020,

transforming it into a state-of-the-art facility.

Another beneficiary of the localisation drive

was Viola LLC, formerly the exclusive Russian

distributor for Finnish dairy products. Before

2014, more than 90% of its supply chain relied

on imports. By 2024, that figure had dropped

to just 7%. “Our dependence on imported

raw materials has virtually disappeared,”

said Jana Pestovskaya, Viola’s procurement

head. “We now source mainly from local and

Asian suppliers.”

Such localisation efforts have made Russia’s

dairy supply chain significantly more resilient

– an advantage that has proven vital amid

ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.

Export ambitions

Having largely achieved import substitution,

the Russian dairy sector is now looking

outward. Export volumes exceeded 1 million

tonnes in 2023, with up to 20% shipped

beyond the Commonwealth of Independent

States (CIS). New markets are emerging in

East and Southeast Asia, the Middle East and

parts of Africa.

Yevgeny Grebnev, general director of the

Karat plant, believes Russia’s processed

cheeses can now compete abroad: “We’re

exporting to CIS countries and beyond.

Our goal isn’t to mimic expensive European

brands but to provide high-quality,

affordable alternatives that represent

Russian innovation.”


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

State and private enterprise

in sync

Russia’s dairy success has not happened by

chance. It reflects a coordinated national

strategy linking government policy, private

enterprise and consumer behaviour. The

embargo triggered a shared understanding

that long-term food security required

investment in local capacity – from genetics

and feed production to processing

technology and market logistics.

This alignment between state and industry

is reminiscent of post-embargo agricultural

policy in other countries that turned crisis

into opportunity. For Russia, the outcome

has been a more diversified, competitive and

sustainable dairy landscape.

Lessons to be learned

For observers abroad – including those

in South Africa’s dairy sector – Russia’s

experience offers several lessons:

1. Crisis can catalyse growth:

External shocks, while painful, can

drive structural change faster than

gradual reform.

2. Self-sufficiency requires strategy:

Investment in both primary production

and processing capacity is key to reducing

vulnerability to global supply disruptions.

3. Local brands can thrive:

Once dominated by imports, Russian

cheese now commands consumer loyalty

– proving that quality and national identity

can coexist profitably.

4. Partnerships are vital:

Collaboration between farmers, processors

and the state ensured that growth was both

coordinated and sustainable.

Looking ahead

More than ten years since the sanctions,

the Russian dairy industry is no longer

defined by what it lost, but by what it gained:

independence, innovation and confidence.

The focus now is shifting from replacing

imports to creating exports – from survival

to expansion.

While challenges remain – including

rising production costs, labour shortages

and the need for continued technological

modernisation – the foundation has been laid

for long-term growth. In the words of Artem

Belov, “The embargo forced us to become

stronger. The next decade will be about

proving that strength on the world stage.”

Approximate exchange rate:

1 Russian ruble () ≈

0,21 South African rand (R)

Sources: Soyuzmoloko, milknews.ru,

DairyNews.today, company

statements from EkoNiva, AgriVolga,

NevaMilk Group, Viola LLC and

Piskarevsky Dairy Plant.


TRANSEM

(Pty) Ltd

se Jaarlikse

Toekenningsgeleentheid

’n Viering van

Uitnemendheid in die Melkindustrie

Transem het op

14 November 2025 hul jaarlikse

produsentetoekenningsgeleentheid

by C’est La Belle in Klerksdorp aangebied.

Die doel van hierdie prestigeryke byeenkoms

is om melkprodusente te vereer wat deur

die jaar melk van uitstaande gehalte

gelewer het. Die geleentheid het nie net ’n

uitstekende netwerkplatform geskep nie,

maar ook die belangrikheid van volhoubare

boerderypraktyke en konsekwente kwaliteit in

die melkindustrie uitgelig — sleutelfaktore vir

die sektor se volgehoue vooruitgang.

Die dag se hoogtepunt was die hoofrede

deur Ramonde Odendaal, Senior Landbouekonoom

met meer as 25 jaar se ervaring

in die sektor. Volgens Odendaal is

“volhoubaarheid en finansiële stabiliteit

die dryfkragte wat boere in staat stel

om nie slegs te floreer nie, maar ook ’n

betekenisvolle impak op hul gemeenskappe

te maak.” Sy het beklemtoon dat deeglike

finansiële ontleding en professionele advies

noodsaaklik is om optimale resultate te behaal

en boerdery-aktiwiteite op die lang duur

volhoubaar te bestuur.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Die funksie is ondersteun deur verskeie

maatskappye wat deur hul verbintenis met

Transem die toekennings geborg het. Hierdie

ondersteuning het dit moontlik gemaak om

toonaangewende produsente in verskeie

prestasiekategorieë te vereer, gebaseer op ’n

aansporingsmodel wat jaarliks van Oktober

tot September beoordeel word. Die stelsel is

ontwerp om produsente aan te moedig om

volgehoue hoë kwaliteit melk te lewer.

Die Produsent van die Jaar is gekies

uit die top vyf produsente met die hoogste

gemiddelde prestasie oor die jaar. Die ranglys

was soos volg:

1. Wynn With Milk Farm

2. SW Coomans

3. JJG Trust

4. J. Marais

5. NJ de Bruyn

Wynn With Milk Farm is bekroon

as Produsent van die Jaar en het ’n

kontantprys geborg deur ALPLA, ontvang.

Hierdie toekenning dien as erkenning vir hul

konsekwente uitnemendheid in kwaliteit,

produksie en volhoubare praktyke.

DIE PAD VORENTOE:

’n Toekoms Gebou op

Innovasie en Samewerking

Die 2025-toekenningsgeleentheid het nie

slegs uitstaande individuele prestasies gevier

nie, maar ook die waarde van samewerking

binne die breër landbou-ekosisteem

beklemtoon. Die melkindustrie word

gekonfronteer met uitdagings soos stygende

insetkoste, klimaatsverandering en verhoogde

markdruk vir volhoubaarheid. Hierdie

toekenningsprosesse en die strategieë

van die suksesvolste produsente dien as

waardevolle riglyne vir die res van die sektor.

Dit is duidelik dat die toekennings

nie bloot ’n viering van die beste in die

bedryf is nie, maar ook ’n motivering vir

alle melkprodusente om voortdurend te

streef na verbeterde gehalte, innoverende

metodes en omgewingsverantwoordelike

boerderypraktyke.

’n NUWE ERA vir

die Melkindustrie

Transem (Pty) Ltd se jaarlikse

toekenningsgeleentheid het weer eens die

kritieke rol van die landboubedryf in Suid-

Afrika se ekonomiese landskap beklemtoon.

Met ’n groeiende fokus op volhoubaarheid,

innovasie en die produksie van melk van die

hoogste gehalte, is dit duidelik dat die bedryf

se voorste produsente ’n wesenlike bydrae tot

die landbou-toekoms lewer.

Deur volgehoue borgskappe, strategiese

samewerking en die erkenning van

uitnemende prestasie, bevestig Transem

dat die toekoms van die melkindustrie in

vaardige en toegewyde hande is. Die wenners

van die aand kan met trots terugkyk op hul

prestasies — en die bedryf kan met vertroue

vorentoe beweeg.



BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

MEESTERS

VAN MELK:

LNR kroon Suid-Afrika

se top-suiwelboere

Lanzerac-wynlandgoed was die spilpunt

van uitnemendheid toe die 2025 Nasionale

Meester-suiwelboertoekennings aangekondig

is — ’n viering van uitnemendheid, harde werk

en tegnologie in die suiwelbedryf.

Die Landbou Navorsingsraad

(LNR) het op

13 November 2025, tydens

’n glansgeleentheid die wenners

van die 2025 Nasionale Meestersuiwelboertoekennings

aangekondig.

’n Jaarlikse baken van prestasie

wat die room van Suid‐Afrika se

suiwelprodusente vereer.

’n Viering van prestasie

en volhoubaarheid

Die toekennings gee erkenning aan produsente wat

nie net melk produseer nie, maar melk van gehalte

deur genetiese verbetering, presisieboerdery,

datagedrewe besluitneming en volhoubare praktyke.

Hierdie boere is die dryfkrag agter volhoubare groei

en dien as inspirasie vir die volgende generasie.


HOOFTOEKENNINGS

Die volgende produsente het vanjaar die hoogste eer ontvang:

» Grootskaal Meester-suiwelboer

van die Jaar: JK Basson Family Trust,

Darling, Wes-Kaap

» Mediumskaal Meester-suiwelboer

van die Jaar: Van Niekerk Boerdery BK,

Caledon, Wes-Kaap

» Kleinskaal Meester-suiwelboer van die

Jaar: Letsolo PT Dairy, Sebokeng, Gauteng

» Korrektiewe Dienste Meestersuiwelboer

van die Jaar:

Goedemoed Correctional Services, Aliwal-

Noord, Oos-Kaap

Spesiale Toekennings

Die volgende toekennings het

uitblinkers in tegniese kategorieë vereer:

» Beste Somatiese Seltelling:

Packwood Farm, Knysna

– vir melkgehalte van die

hoogste standaard.

» Beste Tussenkalfperiode:

JK Basson Family Trust

– vir doeltreffende

reproduksiebestuur (375 dae).

» Beste Kuddeverbetering:

JK Basson Family Trust – vir

genetiese vooruitgang deur

selektiewe teling.

» Beste Jongvee Prestasie:

Letsolo PT Dairy – vir die grootmaak

van produktiewe jongvee onder

uitdagende omstandighede.

» Beste Genetiese Vooruitgang

(Holstein): JK Basson Family Trust

» Beste Genetiese Vooruitgang

(Jersey): Van Niekerk Boerdery BK

» Beste Nuweling: Mahlangu Dairy

Enterprise – vir vinnige aanpassing

en moderne bestuurspraktyke.

» Dataintegriteitstoekenning:

Moolman Boerdery – vir akkurate en

tydige datalewering.

» Gemeenskapsimpak:

Sibongile Vroue Suiwelkoöperasie –

vir bemagtiging en voedselsekerheid

in landelike gebiede.

» Mentorskap Erkenning:

Mnr. Thabo Mokoena – vir sy

toewyding aan die opheffing van

opkomende boere.

Eretoekennings:

’n Huldeblyk aan Leierskap

Die aand het ook hulde gebring

aan individue wie se bydraes die

bedryf gevorm het:

» Lewenslange Prestasie:

Dr. Johan van der Merwe vir vier

dekades van kuddeverbetering.

» Leierskap in die Suiwelsektor:

Me. Nandi Mokoena vir

beleidsbeïnvloeding en inklusiwiteit.

» Jeugontwikkeling:

Sipho Dlamini vir ’n dinamiese

jeugprojek in KwaZulu-Natal.

» Vroue Bemagtiging:

Sibongile Vroue Suiwelkoöperasie

vir volhoubare ontwikkeling in

die Oos-Kaap.

» Innovasie in Voorligting:

ARC Tegniese Span vir mobiele

adviesdienste.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Spesiale Huldeblyk:

Mnr. Boy Blanckenberg van

Klipheuwel vir sy visionêre leierskap

en mentorskap. Sy huldeblyk het die

gehoor diep geraak. Sy nalatenskap van

kennisoordrag en die opheffing van

opkomende boere is ’n lig wat helder

skyn in die melkbedryf.

Foto’s: ARC FB-blad

’n Skema wat Saak Maak

Die LNR se Nasionale Melkaantekeningen

Verbeteringskema, geakkrediteer

deur die Internasionale Komitee vir

Diereopname, is ’n spilpunt vir genetiese

verbetering, voedselsekerheid en menslike

kapitaalontwikkeling. Dit is nie net ’n stelsel

nie, dit is ’n belegging in die toekoms van die

Suid-Afrikaanse suiwelbedryf.

Wêreldinsigte vir Plaaslike Groei

Christine Leighton van Melk SA het insigte

gedeel vanaf die 2025 Wêreld-suiwelberaad

in Santiago, Chili. Onderwerpe soos

opvolgbeplanning, stygende insetkoste,

arbeidstekorte en robotmelkerye het die

gesprek oor die toekoms van suiwelproduksie

oorheers, temas waarop plaaslike

produsente ag slaan.

Vennootskap vir Uitnemendheid

Dr. Litha Magingxa, President en HUB van die

LNR, en Joyene Isaacs, Voorsitter van die LNR,

het die wenners gelukgewens en die LNR

se rol as wetenskap- en innovasievennoot

beklemtoon. ‘Ons werk saam om ’n

volhoubare, regverdige en vooruitstrewende

suiwelbedryf te bou,’ het Magingxa gesê.

Dr. Shadrack Moephuli, President en

HUB van die LNR, het die kritieke rol van

datagedrewe besluitneming in moderne

suiwelboerdery beklemtoon. Hy het die LNR

se toewyding aan genetiese verbetering,

melkregistrasie en boerondersteuning uitgelig

en die wenners gevier as ‘ambassadeurs

van uitnemendheid ‘wat die breër

landbougemeenskap inspireer

Hierdie toekennings vier nie net prestasie

nie, dit bou ’n toekoms van uitnemendheid.

Van grootskaalse tegnologie tot kleinskaalse

innovasie, van data tot DNA – Suid-Afrika se

suiwelmeesters wys die pad vorentoe.

Die 2025-toekenningsgeleentheid is

aangebied deur Agri-Expo namens die

LNR se Nasionale Melkaantekening- en

Verbeteringskema, met ondersteuning

van vennote soos die Departement van

Landbou, Nedbank, Nova Feeds, Afgri, Semex

SA, Meadow Feeds, World Wide Sires SA,

Ecolab, Chemuniqué, Axiota® Animal Health,

Hollard en die Suid-Afrikaanse Vereniging vir

Suiweltegnologie (SASDT).


DAIRY ECONOMIC INDICATORS

INTERNATIONAL

DAIRY TRADE ENVIRONMENT

by Jade Smith, MPO economist

MPO Economic Desk:

Guided by science, rooted in knowledge

The MPO compiled the following figures on the international dairy

trade environment for the period January 2023 to September 2025,

with a specific focus on the export activities of long-life milk (UHT),

skimmed milk powder (SMP) and Cheddar and Gouda cheese.

(Source: SARS as supplied from Agri Inspec).


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

The export destinations of South African dairy products varied by product,

with significant volumes going to SACU countries, and notable volumes

also shipped to Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Saudi Arabia during the first

nine months of 2025.

Figure 1 UHT processed milk prices; FOB prices in rand terms

Rand/Kg

16,00

15,00

14,00

13,00

12,00

11,00

10,00

9,00

8,00

7,00

6,00

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

2023

2024

2025

Ј During 2025, free-on-board (FOB) prices remained lower for eight months compared to

both 2023 and 2024. April 2025 was the only month the FOB price was higher at R15,23/kg –

resulting in lower export volumes (See Figure 2).

Ј August 2025 recorded the lowest FOB price since June 2022, marking a significant drop in

export pricing.

Ј In line with the law of demand and supply, lower prices generally lead to higher quantities

demanded — and vice versa. This relationship is evident in Figure 2, where export volumes of

UHT milk increased during most months of 2025 when prices were lower, with a slight dip in

April corresponding to the temporary price increase.


Figure 2 UHT processed milk exports (kg)

14 000 000

12 000 000

10 000 000

Kg

8 000 000

6 000 000

4 000 000

2023

2024

2025

2 000 000

0


Ј UHT milk exports increased with 33% in the first nine months of 2025 compared to

2023 and 2024.

Ј For the first nine months of 2025, most of the UHT milk was exported to the SACU countries

and Mozambique, with the largest share being exported to Botswana (47%), followed by

Namibia (13%) and Eswatini (13)%.

Ј A total of 40 million kilograms of UHT processed milk was exported to Botswana at an average

price of R6,72/kg, for the first nine months of 2025.

Figure 3 SMP prices; FOB prices in rand terms

90,00

80,00

70,00

Rand/Kg

60,00

50,00

40,00

30,00

20,00

2023

2024

2025

10,00

0,00


Ј FOB prices remained relatively stable between March and August across the three-year period,

with only slight deviations observed in January, February, and September.

Ј In September 2025, the FOB price decreased by 22% and 25% compared to the same month in

2023 and 2024, respectively.

Ј Although FOB prices for SMP from March to July 2025 were similar to those in 2023 and 2024,

export volumes increased. This indicates that factors other than price — such as growing

foreign demand or expanded market opportunities — drove higher exports, consistent with the

law of supply and demand, which assumes all else equal.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Figure 4 SMP exports (kg)

1 800 000

1 600 000

1 400 000

Kg

1 200 000

1 000 000

800 000

600 000

2023

2024

2025

400 000

200 000

0


Ј Between March and July 2025, SMP export volumes rose sharply with 37% and 62% compared

to the same period in 2023 and 2024, respectively.

Ј Of the 1,5 million kilograms exported in July 2025, approximately 23% was destined for

Zimbabwe and 22% for Mozambique.

Ј For the first nine months of 2025, SMP exports recorded the largest increase among the

dairy products analysed, rising 65% over the same period in 2024, compared to UHT

milk and cheese.

Figure 5 Cheddar prices; FOB prices in rand terms

120

100

Rand/Kg

80

60

40

2023

2024

2025

20

0


Ј For the first nine months of 2025, FOB prices followed a similar pattern to 2023 and remained

higher than 2024, except in February and June.

Ј In 2025, FOB prices increased from February to March and from June to July. This appears to

contradict the standard law of supply and demand, which suggests that higher prices generally

lead to lower demand and lower prices to higher demand (See Figure 6).


Figure 6 Cheddar exports (kg)

800 000

700 000

600 000

Kg

500 000

400 000

300 000

200 000

2023

2024

2025

100 000

0


Ј In 2025, export volumes showed a zig-zag pattern, with 63% of March exports and 47% of July

exports shipped to Saudi Arabia.

Ј For the first nine months of 2025, export volumes increased with 62% and 23% compared to the

same period in 2023 and 2024, respectively.

Ј In August 2025, only 143 thousand kilograms were exported, marking the lowest volume since

January 2024.

Figure 7 Gouda prices; FOB prices in rand terms

120

100

Rand/Kg

80

60

40

2023

2024

2025

20

0


Ј In January 2025, the FOB price reached an all-time high of R95,82/kg and remained elevated,

with slight fluctuations, before declining to R71,15/kg in September — a 26% decrease.

Ј The September price drop corresponded with the highest export volume recorded to date

(see Figure 8).


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Figure 8 Gouda exports (kg)

250 000

200 000

Kg

150 000

100 000

2023

2024

2025

50 000

0


Ј In September 2025, Gouda cheese was primarily exported to Mozambique (47%) and

Namibia (37%).

Ј During the first nine months of 2025, Gouda export volumes increased with 31% compared to

2023, and 11% over the same period in 2024.

Overall, during the first nine months of 2025, the dairy trade environment

experienced declining import activity while exports showed steady growth.

For more information on the trading environment, contact

JADE SMITH, economist at the MPO, at jade@mpo.co.za


DAIRY

DIGITS

NOVEMBER 2025

Dairy digits is a Milk SA feature. It is also

available on the Milk SA website: milksa.co.za.

Table 1 Key market indicators

Item Period Value

% change

(same period

previous year)

Unprocessed milk purchased (’000 tonnes) 2023 1 3 339 −0,3%

Unprocessed milk purchased (’000 tonnes) 2024 1 3 458 +3,56%

Unprocessed milk purchased (’000 tonnes) estimate Sep 25 1 345 +4,48%

Unprocessed milk purchased (’000 tonnes) estimate Jan–Sep 25 1 2 478 +1,23%

Dairy imports (’000 tonnes) 2024 2 33,9 −30,1%

Dairy imports (’000 tonnes) Jan–Aug 25 2 19,1 −22,04%

Dairy exports (’000 tonnes) 2024 2 53,5 −4,63%

Dairy exports (’000 tonnes) Jan–Aug 25 2 43,7 +32,02%

Dairy exports inclusive of sales to other SACU countries (’000 tonnes) 5 Jan–Aug 25 2 132,7 +11,7%

Producer price index of unprocessed milk (base Dec 23 = 100) 3 Sep 25 3 97,9 +0,1%

Producer price index of dairy products (base Dec 23 = 100) 3 Sep 25 3 105,0 +1,0%

Farm requisite price index (base 2015 = 100) 4 Jan 25 4 143,1 −2,9%

Source:

1

Milk SA returns

2

SARS statistics supplied by SAMPRO

3

Stats SA PPI index

4

Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural

Development (DALRRD) price index of farm requisites

5

SARS statistics supplied by Agri Inspec

Figure 1 International dairy product prices (free on board), Jan 2014–Sep 2025

Rand per t

170 000

150 000

130 000

110 000

90 000

70 000

50 000

30 000

10 000

Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19 Jan-20 Jan-21 Jan-22 Jan-23 Jan-24 Jan-25

Source:

USDA price surveys,

exchange rate South

African Reserve Bank

middle rates, last

month – average of

daily closing values.

Butter

SMP

Cheddar

FMP

Acronyms and abbreviations: Milk South Africa (Milk SA) • Milk Producers’ Organisation (MPO) • South African Milk Processors’

Organisation (SAMPRO) • Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) • South African Revenue Service (SARS) • United States Department of

Agriculture (USDA) • producer price index (PPI) • consumer price index (CPI) • Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural

Development (DALRRD) • full-cream milk powder (FMP) • skimmed milk powder (SMP) • ultra-high temperature (UHT) processed


Figure 2 Monthly unprocessed milk purchase trends, Jan 2021–Sep 2025

'000 t

360

340

320

300

280

260

240

Source:

Milk SA statistics.

Note: Each year's

figures are assessed,

reviewed and

finalised by 31 March

of the ensuing year.

2025*

2025

2022

2023

2024

220

Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

* Last two months

preliminary: sample survey

Figure 3 Monthly cumulative net imports, milk equivalent, Jan 2021–Aug 2025

200

150

Source:

MPO calculation

from SARS data

supplied by

SAMPRO.

1000 t milk equivalent

100

50

0

-50

Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

2025

2021

2022

-100

-150

2023

2024

Figure 4 PPI indices of unprocessed milk and dairy products and the CPI of milk,

cheese and eggs, Jan 2014–Sep 2025

230

210

Source:

Stats SA PPI and

CPI information,

statssa.gov.za.

Unprocessed

milk PPI

Index (2012 = 100)

190

170

150

130

110

90

Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19 Jan-20 Jan-21 Jan-22 Jan-23 Jan-24 Jan-25

Milk, other dairy

products & eggs,

Dairy CPI products PPI

(full cream fresh milk,

full cream UHT milk,

Cheddar cheese, yoghurt

and ice cream)

Dairy products

Unprocessed

PPI (full cream

fresh milk, full

milk PPI cream UHT milk,

cheddar cheese,

Milk, yoghurt cheese & ice

and cream eggs CPI

This publication is compiled from sources that are deemed reliable. However, Milk SA and the contributors

to the publication accept no responsibility for the accuracy of the information. The information is, furthermore,

intended to provide market signals only and Milk SA indemnifies itself against any actions based on this information.


Take the power of

with you

ANIMAL LIST

All your animals in one

place, from here you

navigate into individual

animal cards, record

single events like

insemination, pregnancy

check, health treatment

or sort and filter the

animals you want to

work with.

BATCH MODE

Record the same event

with the same results on

multiple animals at once.

Add a dry off, group change

and treatment in one step.

Use the voice feedback to

make sure that the action

you want to take is the

right one.

WORKER MODE

Record the same

event for a group of

animals having a different

result. You have multiple

cows to pregnancy check;

some are positive and some

negative. Connect a Bluetooth

ID reader to your phone to

make sure you always record

the event for the right animal.

ATTENTION

REPORTS

If you need a calving, dry

off or insemination report;

it is already in your pocket.

These predefined reports

from DelProm Farm

Manager brings your focus

to animals that need your

attention.


KORTLIKS | BRIEFLY

TLU SA VIER

UITNEMENDHEID in

landboujoernalistiek met

SONNEBLOM-TOEKENNING

TLU SA het sy jaarlikse Sonneblomtoekenning

tydens ’n glansryke

mediafunksie by die organisasie

se hoofkantoor in Silverton aangebied.

Hierdie toekenning is ’n hoogtepunt op

TLU SA se kalender en erken joernaliste en

mediaplatforms wat deur die jaar uitmuntende

werk gelewer het in die dekking van landbou,

plattelandse sake en die uitdagings waarmee

boere daagliks gekonfronteer word.

Die Sonneblom-toekenning dra besondere

simboliese waarde in die landbougemeenskap

– helderheid, waarheid, hoop en

standvastigheid – waardes waarvolgens

TLU SA self funksioneer en die werk van

die bekroonde joernaliste en platforms

erken en vereer.

Volgens Bennie van Zyl, hoofbestuurder

van TLU SA: “Joernaliste is soms die enigste

brug tussen die boer se werklikheid en die

samelewing se begrip daarvan. Wanneer

daardie brug met eerlikheid, balans en die

soeke na waarheid gebou word, verdien

dit erkenning.”

Hy het verder beklemtoon dat die

mediabedryf en landboujoernaliste ’n

sleutelrol speel in openbare vertroue: “Ons

boere staan vandag voor uitdagings wat meer

kompleks en veeleisend is as ooit tevore.

Wanneer die media hierdie realiteite met

integriteit uitlig, dien hulle nie net die landbou

nie, hulle dien die hele land.”

DIE WENNERS VAN 2025

Die volgende mediaplatforms en joernaliste

het vanjaar die gesogte Sonneblomtoekenning

ontvang:

» Elektroniese media: GROOTplaas

(Bloudruk Media)

» Klankmedia: Pretoria FM

» Geskrewe media: Yogashen Pillay

van die Mercury

Bron

en foto’s:

TLU SA

Dié jaarlikse mediafunksie is nie net ’n

viering van uitnemendheid nie, maar ook

’n herinnering aan die noodsaaklikheid

van professionele, akkurate en

etiese verslaggewing. TLU SA glo dat

volhoubare landbou, ekonomiese groei

en gemeenskapswelstand afhanklik is van

eerlike inligting en openbare vertroue. Met

die Sonneblom-toekenning bevestig TLU

SA sy verbintenis tot eerlike dialoog en

doelgerigte samewerking.

Read all about the MPO’s activities in each issue of The Dairy Mail.


Silage crops:

Part

5

LUCERNE

SILAGE

by Richardt Venter, international silage consultant

In this fifth and final article in the mini-series exploring

the main silages made in Southern Africa, we will discuss

lucerne silage. Lucerne has traditionally and historically

been preserved as hay in Southern Africa for the simple

reason that farmers could, in certain areas, dry it relatively

easily due to sufficient sunshine and low humidity.



On the other hand, ensiling lucerne

used to be difficult because it

is a high-buffering crop, due to

its high protein and consequently high

nitrogen (N) content.

However, depending on the region,

sufficient sunshine is not always guaranteed,

which increases the risk of some cuts being

rained on during the season and ending up as

lower-quality hay – or even struggling to get

the hay made at all.

Coincidently, making silage from lucerne

is no longer such a challenge, as we now

have a much better understanding of what

the process requires. Making fully processed

lucerne silage, ideally in silo-bags or wrapped

round bales, offers a great alternative for

using and storing lucerne.

BENEFITS OF

lucerne silage over hay

Intake

Palatability is an important factor in silage,

as it can be enhanced with good-quality

silage but can also cause problems in poorly

preserved or poorly managed silages, leading

to reduced intake.

It is clear that a poor fermentation profile

negatively affects intake, especially in highprotein

crops. These crops are also prone to

wet ensiling due to insufficient wilting periods,

which can lead to a range of other issues.

However, proper management practices

and the use of technology can improve not

only palatability but also the digestibility of

lucerne silage, thereby stimulating intake.

Digestibility

In lucerne silage, like all other roughages,

various factors can affect digestibility. These

factors occur throughout the silage-making

and utilisation process – from the crop’s

growth conditions, harvesting, processing and

storage, to the final preparations for feeding

and the animal itself.

During the fermentation process of

lucerne silage, part of the nitrogen fraction

is degraded into soluble forms such as

peptides, amino acids and ammonia, which

are rapidly broken down in the rumen with

low microbial synthesis efficiency. High

concentrations of ammonia can interfere with

digestibility and may also enter the nitrogenrecycling

process, increasing the animal’s

energy cost.

As ammonia negatively affects intake, its

concentration in silage should always be

kept as low as possible. A key management

strategy to achieve this is to increase the

speed of oxygen removal from the lucerne.


During the ensiling process, hemicellulose

is broken down, providing additional substrate

for fermentation. This is reflected in the

lower concentrations of neutral detergent

fibre (NDF) in most silages compared to the

original crops. Neutral concentrations can

also be altered by breaking the nitrogen

bound to NDF, compared with the original

plant material.

Processing and wastage

The first stage of silage processing involves

cutting and removing the crop from the land,

as is the case with both silage and hay. The

alternative is, of course, grazing. However,

grazing introduces its own challenges, from

managing animals on the pasture – including

the risk of bloat on lucerne – to the impact the

animals have on soil compaction.

However, the main reason grazing is less

efficient from a crop perspective is the

variability introduced by the plants’ growth

stage. A crop like lucerne has a very narrow

optimal production window for quality,

including crude protein (CP) content, fibre

levels and dry matter (DM) yield per hectare.

When lucerne is weather damaged, in-field

losses can reach 30% to 40% of DM. While

losses are highest for dry hay, they are also

the most variable, ranging between 10 and

40% moisture.

If the main loss is from leaf loss, CP is lost

more than total digestible nutrients (TDN).

However, if the damage is caused by rain,

water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC) are

reduced, lowering TDN more than CP. In this

case, ensilability is also impaired due to the

lack of sugars needed for fermentation. Rain

on a wilting crop further contributes to losses

through nutrient leaching.

Lucerne silage can therefore be regarded

as a lower-risk crop, due to its shorter

exposure time during wilting compared to hay.

When silage is fed separately in feed bunks

or hay rings, wastage is much lower. Leaf loss

is significantly reduced because the leaves

remain firmly attached to the stems, as the

material is not as dry and brittle.

The major differences in losses are that

lucerne hay experiences higher field losses

during harvesting, higher storage losses,

greater processing losses (if applicable) and

higher physical feeding losses compared with

the same lucerne preserved as silage. Storage

losses of hay are therefore larger than often

realised, making silage an excellent alternative

for long-term storage.



Shelf life

There is a common misconception that

lucerne hay bales, especially when stored

under a roof, do not degrade or incur

significant losses. In reality, whenever oxygen

is present, losses will occur. Nutrients are lost

due to oxidation, particularly of fat-soluble

nutrients, while the main DM loss inside bales

is at least 5%, with 10% being typical over

a season. This does not include additional

leaching losses when haystacks are exposed

to rain. Weathered bales losing an outer layer

of 20 cm to 30 cm can account for a third of

the total bale weight lost.

If hay is stored with too much moisture,

losses can be even greater, not to mention

the risk of spontaneous combustion in highmoisture

haystacks. Hay baled at over 20%

moisture is generally considered too wet,

except when specifically treated with organic

acids to inhibit spoilage organisms.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Lucerne silage has evolved from being a

challenging option to a practical, highquality

alternative to hay, thanks to improved

understanding and technology. By reducing

weather-related risks, minimising nutrient

losses and offering better storage stability,

silage provides farmers with a reliable way

to preserve lucerne and maintain feed

value throughout the season. With proper

management, lucerne silage can enhance

intake, improve digestibility and support

consistent animal performance – making it an

increasingly important component of forage

strategies in Southern Africa.

For farmers looking to optimise forage

quality and reduce losses, now is the time to

explore lucerne silage as part of your feeding

strategy. Consult with a silage specialist or

your nutrition advisor to ensure best practices

for processing, storage and utilisation.

By reducing weather-related risks, minimising nutrient

losses and offering better storage stability, silage

provides farmers with a reliable way to preserve lucerne

and maintain feed value throughout the season.


ALGEHELE

MELKHIGIËNE

Ons verskaf skoonmaak-in-plek stelsels, deeglike

skoonmaak - middels, ontsmettingsmiddels

en spesialis oplossings vir:

• Massatenks • Melkmasjiene

• Vervaardigingsaanlegte

011 708 0209

info@bransonchemicals.co.za

www.bransonchemicals.co.za



The hidden pitfalls of

MYCOTOXINS

by Judi Rosenstrauch,

technical support scientist ENVARTO (Pty) Ltd

MONITORING, MANAGING

AND MITIGATING: A modern

approach to mycotoxin

control in dairy operations

Mycotoxins represent one of the most

deceptive challenges facing dairy producers

today. These toxic fungal metabolites

contaminate feed ingredients and forage at

various stages of production, often remaining

invisible until they have already compromised

cow health, reproduction and milk production.

The economic toll manifests through reduced

milk yield, poor conception rates, increased

culling and elevated veterinary expenses.

For dairy farmers, the question is no longer

whether mycotoxins pose a risk, but rather

how to implement systematic, data-driven

strategies to protect herd performance

and profitability.


Impact on health

Dairy cows face unique vulnerabilities to

mycotoxin exposure. High-producing cows

consume large volumes of dry matter daily,

creating substantial mycotoxin exposure even

at low contamination levels. The metabolic

stress of lactation further compromises

immune function and detoxification

capacity, making cows more susceptible to

mycotoxin effects.

At levels below recommended safe limits in

feed, aflatoxins can significantly reduce milk

production and transfer into milk as aflatoxin

M₁, posing food safety concerns. Some toxins

like deoxynivalenol (DON) impairs rumen

function by disrupting microbial balance and

gut barrier integrity, increasing susceptibility

to mastitis. Others, such as fumonisin, can

cause liver damage and immunosuppression,

while zearalenone exhibits oestrogenic effects

that disrupt normal reproductive cycles,

potentially leading to cystic ovarian disease

and reduced fertility.

The silent productivity killer

Perhaps mycotoxin effects cannot be

more economically devastating than in

reproductive performance. Zearalenone

(ZEN), with its potent oestrogenic activity,

stands as a primary reproductive threat in

dairy herds. This toxin binds competitively to

oestrogen receptors in the uterus, mammary

gland, hypothalamus and pituitary gland,

creating disruptions including false heat

signs, irregular oestrous cycles, reduced

conception rates, early embryonic loss and

increased calving intervals.

Research has established that dairy

heifers are particularly susceptible to ZEN’s

reproductive effects. In dairy heifers fed diets

containing ZEN above 12,5 ppm, conception

rates dropped from 87% to 62%, a 25%

reduction in fertility. Heifers are often more

susceptible (>10 ppm) compared to mature

cows (>20 ppm), but chronic exposure at

lower levels can still lead to cystic ovarian

disease, which leads to premature culling.

Aflatoxins also impair reproduction through

different mechanisms. Studies demonstrate

that aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) inhibits development

of preimplantation bovine embryos by

reducing the percentage of oocytes

developing into blastocysts. Additionally, AFB1

induces spermatotoxicity in bulls, reducing

sperm viability, increasing DNA fragmentation

and elevating sperm abnormalities.

Extended calving intervals and increased

days open translate directly to lost milk

production, increased insemination costs

and accelerated involuntary culling, creating

substantial economic burdens for dairy

operations even when mycotoxin levels

appear to be within regulatory guidelines.

The silage pitfalls

For dairy operations that rely heavily on silage,

mycotoxin risk has particular significance.

Pre-ensiling field contamination occurs

when moulds colonise crops before harvest,

especially when weather delays cutting or

when crops are damaged by hail, insects,

or disease. Fusarium species commonly

contaminate maize and grass crops in the

field, producing DON, ZEN and fumonisins

(FUM) prior to harvest.


The ensiling process itself presents

critical control points. Inadequate anaerobic

conditions allow aerobic moulds to thrive,

particularly when crops are ensiled above

35% dry matter or when compaction is poor.

Most concerning is aerobic instability at feed

out when oxygen exposure allows rapid mould

growth and potential mycotoxin production.

Data from the European Union indicate that

DON was detected in 72% to 86% of maize

silage samples, while ZEN occurred in 49%.

Emerging mycotoxins were present in over

70% of maize silage samples, with most

samples containing multiple mycotoxins

simultaneously.

Critical management practices include

achieving rapid pH drop below 4,0, ensuring

proper packing density of at least 240 kg

DM/m³ by spreading thin layers (10 cm to

15 cm) and maintaining correct chop length of

between 1 cm and 3 cm. Bunker dimensions

should follow a 6:1 width-to-height ratio.

Proven bacterial inoculants enhance

fermentation and aerobic stability, while rapid

sealing with quality plastic and adequate

weighting minimises oxygen exposure. During

feed out, the aim should be to maintain rates

of between 15 cm and 30 cm per day (higher

in summer) and immediately discard visibly

mouldy silage as contamination extends well

beyond visible areas.

Regulatory limits

not a guarantee for

optimal performance

Research demonstrates that even subclinical

mycotoxin levels well below regulatory

limits can significantly impair dairy cow

performance.

The challenge is further compounded

by mycotoxin co-contamination. Surveys

consistently show that most feed samples

contain multiple mycotoxins, which can

interact to affect reproduction, immunity and

milk production, often exhibiting synergistic

toxicity that exceeds predictions based on

individual mycotoxins alone. Regulatory

limits were established primarily on the

basis of acute toxicity data and food safety

considerations, rather than optimising animal

health and productivity.


Testing and

biomonitoring strategies

Effective mycotoxin management requires

monitoring both feed contamination and

actual animal exposure. Modern liquid

chromatography-mass spectrometry

(LC‐MS/MS) methods can simultaneously

detect dozens of mycotoxins in a single

sample. Strategic sampling should include

testing maize silage from each bunker at

opening and regular intervals thereafter,

analysing purchased concentrates

periodically and increasing frequency when

fermentation quality declines or animal

performance drops unexpectedly.

However, feed analysis has critical

limitations. Equally problematic are masked

mycotoxins, chemically modified forms

produced by plants that escape standard

detection yet revert to toxic forms during

ruminal digestion, creating hidden exposure

risks that feed testing alone cannot reveal.

Biomonitoring through milk, blood, or

urine samples directly measures the internal

mycotoxin dose absorbed and metabolised by

the animal, avoiding feed sampling challenges

and detecting masked mycotoxins after

conversion to their toxic forms. Using feed

testing and biomonitoring together creates

a feedback loop that enables early detection

of subclinical exposure, validates mitigation

strategy effectiveness and supports datadriven

decisions about ingredients, additives

and management strategies.


Mitigation: Supporting the

cow’s defence systems

Even with best preventive measures, some

mycotoxin contamination is often inevitable.

Animals detoxify mycotoxins through two

primary mechanisms: adsorption in the gut

and enzymatic metabolism in the liver. Certain

feed additives, such as bentonite and other

clay minerals, activated charcoal and yeast

cell wall components, can bind to some

mycotoxins, reducing their bioavailability.

However, they do not bind all mycotoxins

equally well. While aflatoxins show binding

rates exceeding 90% with some of these

adsorbents, toxins like DON and ZEN show

much lower binding efficiency – often below

20% to 30% – necessitating the use of more

sophisticated products.

Once mycotoxins enter the bloodstream,

the liver metabolises them through

biotransformation. A well-designed feed

additive strategy supports both pathways by

binding toxins in the gut

and supplying nutrients

or cofactors that enhance

liver detoxification

capacity. Investment in

high quality mycotoxin

mitigation products,

typically costing between

R80,00 and R180,00

per ton of feed, is

generally far lower than

the performance losses

they prevent.

Figure 1 Detoxification of mycotoxins in the animal

Building a culture of feed safety

Mycotoxin control is not a one-time

intervention, it is an ongoing commitment.

The most successful dairy operations

integrate mycotoxin management into their

daily routines, from silage production to milk

collection. Clear protocols, trained staff who

recognise warning signs and detailed records

linking feed quality to herd performance

create a system where problems are identified

early before they impact profitability.

The economic case is straightforward.

Investments in testing, mitigation products

and improved silage management typically

deliver returns several times their cost

through better milk production, enhanced

reproductive efficiency, reduced culling and

lower veterinary expenses.

The dairy landscape is changing fast. Onfarm

testing is quicker and more accessible,

weather-based models are improving risk

prediction and milk biomonitoring is gaining

ground. As climate variability drives new

mycotoxin challenges, producers who

invest in testing, prevention and good silage

management will stay ahead. With the right

tools and knowledge, proactive mycotoxin

control safeguards both herd health and farm

profitability.

JUDI ROSENSTRAUCH is a technical

support scientist at ENVARTO (Pty) Ltd.

She holds an MSc in animal nutrition

and is a PhD candidate, with a focus on

ruminant and monogastric nutrition (all

references available on request).



Spotting SARA early:

FOUR WAYS

TO PROTECT YOUR HERD

Subacute ruminal

acidosis (SARA)

remains one of the most

costly digestive disorders in

high-producing dairy herds. Driven

by the excessive accumulation of

volatile fatty acids (VFAs) in the rumen,

SARA is most commonly observed in

early- and mid-lactation cows. The

economic and production losses

associated with this condition

make early detection and

prevention critical.

Understanding VFAs and the

acetic-to-propionate ratio

Volatile fatty acids are the primary energy

source for ruminants, produced and

absorbed in the rumen. The more soluble

and degradable the nutrients in a ration

are, the faster VFAs are produced, causing

rumen pH to drop. When rumen pH remains

low, the absorption capacity of the rumen

wall declines, leading to the accumulation

of acids and potential damage to the

rumen epithelium.

Rumen pH is influenced heavily by the

forage-to-concentrate ratio. Forage that is

rich in structural carbohydrates, such as

cellulose and hemicellulose, are fermented

by cellulolytic bacteria into acetic acid (AA)

at an optimal rumen pH of 6–7. In contrast,

concentrates containing starch and sugars

are fermented by amylolytic bacteria into

propionic acid (PA) at a lower pH of 5–6.

Acetic acid typically constitutes about 60%

of total VFAs and is the main precursor for milk

fat synthesis, while PA, comprising roughly

20%, contributes to glucose production and

milk yield. The remaining VFAs – such as

butyric and valeric acids – play smaller but

still important metabolic roles.


Cows more prone to SARA

» Early lactation: During the dry period,

pregnant animals are fed lowerenergy

diets. The rumen bacteria and

rumen papillae are adapted to this and

struggle when the diet changes to the

lactation ration.

» Primiparous cows: These animals have

never had a lactation diet before and face

the same difficulty as above.

» Heat stress: Blood bicarbonate

concentrations increase respiratory rate

during heat stress, which decreases the

rumen’s buffer capacity.

» Inappropriate ration calculation and

management: Incorrect dry matter

calculation or feeding management also

predisposes cows to SARA.

Timely recognition of SARA

1. Monitoring the AA:PA ratio

A declining rumen acetic-to-propionic acid

(AA:PA) ratio is one of the earliest indicators

of subclinical rumen disturbances. When this

ratio falls, rumen pH tends to stay below six

for longer periods, suppressing the activity

of fibre-digesting bacteria and leading to

acid accumulation. Prolonged exposure to

acidic conditions can damage the rumen

lining, further reducing VFA absorption and

worsening the problem.

Consistent, well-balanced total mixed

rations are key to prevention. Uniform mixing,

correct forage-to-concentrate ratios and

proper particle length help minimise feed

sorting. Outdoor or pasture-based systems,

on the other hand, can be more prone to

SARA, particularly when cows graze on

rapidly fermentable grass low in fibre, or when

feeding times are inconsistent.

2. Watching for milk fat

depression (MFD)

Milk fat depression is one of the fastest and

most accurate indicators of SARA at herd

level. A sudden drop of 0,65% to 1% in milk

butterfat, while protein levels remain stable,

is a red flag. This not only affects milk quality

but also reduces cheese yield and alters

dairy product characteristics – key concerns

for processors who pay premiums for milk

composition.

Even with modern mixing technology and

ration formulation, individual cows can still

experience SARA due to metabolic variation.

Fatty acid profiling of milk can confirm the

diagnosis, with affected cows showing higher

proportions of trans-isomers such as C18:1

trans-10 and altered ratios of C18:1 trans-10 to

C18:1 trans-11.



3. Checking for excessive

rumen nitrogen

An imbalance between energy and protein in

the diet can amplify SARA symptoms. When

rumen pH, ammonia and nutrient absorption

are disrupted, the balance of microbial

protein production shifts. Cellulolytic bacteria

normally provide up to 80% of a cow’s

metabolisable protein, but SARA reduces

their efficiency.

Overfeeding low-quality proteins while

providing insufficient rapidly fermentable

carbohydrates results in nitrogen wastage.

Excess nitrogen circulates as blood urea

nitrogen or milk urea nitrogen. As rumen pH

drops, ammonia absorption slows, leading

to toxic accumulation. Synchronising energy

and protein supply in the ration, together with

rumen buffering and the inclusion of peptides

or cofactors, helps restore balance and

microbial function.

4. Tracking herd behaviour and

performance indicators

SARA often manifests subtly through changes

in feeding behaviour and overall herd health.

Reduced dry matter intake, inconsistent

feeding patterns and mild diarrhoea are

common warning signs. Cows may show

yellowish, foamy manure with undigested

grain – evidence of impaired digestion and

rapid feed passage.

Secondary effects such as liver abscesses,

laminitis and poor reproductive performance

can also be traced back to chronic SARA.

Regular monitoring of body condition score,

rumen fill score and manure score provides

valuable insights into herd status. Elevated

somatic cell counts and reduced vitamin

and trace mineral absorption may also

indicate rumen inflammation and reduced

nutrient uptake.

Healthy rumen, productive herd

Subacute ruminal acidosis may be subclinical,

but its long-term impact on production,

fertility and animal welfare can be significant.

Proactive monitoring, starting with rumen

fermentation profiles, milk composition trends,

nitrogen balance and behavioural indicators

offers the best defence. A balanced ration,

consistent feeding management and

regular evaluation of herd data will help

maintain optimal rumen function, ensuring

both cow health and profitability remain in

peak condition.


FT-NIR SPECTROSCOPY

PRECISION IN EVERY DROP

Introducing the MOVE-T Liquid Dairy Analyzer

The new MOVE-T analyzer extends the benefits of FT-NIR

spectroscopy to a wide range of dairy needs, from raw milk to

liquid finished products, intermediates, and premixes.

w FT-NIR Technology: Highest precision and reliability with every measurement.

w Wearless Quartz Flow Cell: Offers maintenance-free durability.

w 2-in-1 Sample Handling: Facilitates efficient sample processing.

w Highest Standards: ISO 21543 compliant for reliable results every time.

Discover the MOVE-T: Our Compact Solution for Liquid Dairy Analysis

More information: www.bruker.com/MOVE or info.za@bruker.com

44 THE DAIRY MAIL • NOVEMBER 2025 Innovation with Integrity


– opportunity

or pitfall?

by Hanlie du Plessis

South Africa’s carbon credit

market is evolving fast – and dairy

farmers are finding themselves part of a

global climate economy they did not ask to

join. As government policies mature, private

aggregators expand and corporate buyers

chase verified offsets, local dairy producers

may soon be paid for storing carbon or

cutting methane. But beneath the promise

lies complexity – long-term contracts,

uncertain returns and a rapidly

changing policy landscape.

Why dairy is suddenly in focus

Dairy production emits greenhouse gases

– mainly methane from digestion, nitrous

oxide from manure and fertiliser and carbon

dioxide (CO2) from energy use. Yet pasturebased

systems, common in South Africa, can

also store carbon in soils if grazing and soil

management improve. This dual nature makes

dairy farms attractive to offset buyers – they

emit, but they can also sequester.

New farm-level emissions tools, such as

DESTiny, now help producers calculate their

carbon footprints and evaluate sequestration

potential. By quantifying both sides of

the carbon equation, farmers can identify

viable entry points into offset projects

and strengthen their negotiating position

with aggregators.


The policy shift behind

the market

The current wave of interest is driven by South

Africa’s carbon tax and offset framework.

Since 2019, companies have been allowed

to use carbon credits to reduce part of their

tax liability. Treasury’s 2025 consultation

paper proposes expanding the system,

strengthening verification and simplifying

project registration – all signals of a

maturing market.

Corporate demand for credible local

offsets is expected to rise, particularly if

offset limits increase from the current 10%

to a proposed 15% of taxable emissions from

2026. That could create stronger demand for

domestic agricultural credits – especially from

projects that demonstrate verifiable emission

reductions and co-benefits like biodiversity or

water conservation.

What dairy farmers stand

to gain

There are two main value streams:

» Payments for emission reductions or

carbon sequestration, usually per verified

tonne of CO₂-equivalent.

» Indirect benefits – healthier soils, better

moisture retention, improved yields and

reduced fertiliser needs – that strengthen

long-term sustainability.

Early adopters report modest but tangible

income, often in the form of annual or biennial

payments once verification is complete.

While carbon prices fluctuate widely, the real

financial value often lies in the productivity

gains and market reputation that come with

verified climate-smart practices.

The rise of private aggregators

For most farmers, entering the carbon market

alone is unrealistic. Measurement, reporting

and verification (MRV) are technically

demanding and expensive. That is where

aggregators step in – pooling multiple

farms into one project, managing data

and verification and selling credits on the

farmers’ behalf.

The most visible local example is

AgriCarbon, which has enrolled thousands

of hectares of farmland and issued tens of

thousands of verified soil carbon credits.

Its model, using internationally recognised

standards adapted for South African

conditions, has made carbon income

accessible to smaller operations that could

not afford independent verification.

Aggregators simplify entry, but they also

control the process – and often, the rights to

future credits. Understanding the fine print

is essential.



The risks and realities

Carbon credits are not free money. Farmers

must understand several key risks:

1. Permanence and liability

Soil carbon can be lost through tillage,

drought, or management changes. Many

contracts include clawback clauses

if sequestration is reversed. Farmers

could remain liable long after payment

is received.

2. Measurement and verification

Reliable MRV is costly. Aggregators usually

deduct these fees from credit income,

reducing the farmer’s share. Beware of

contracts that push verification costs or

risks onto the farmer.

3. Contract complexity

Pay close attention to ownership clauses.

Some agreements assign perpetual rights

to credits or data to the aggregator. Always

seek legal advice before signing.

4. Market integrity

Not all credits are created equal. Buyers

increasingly demand high-integrity credits

verified under credible standards such as

Verra. Treasury’s planned reforms aim to

improve transparency and eliminate ‘junk

credits’, but for now, buyers and sellers

must tread carefully.

5. Delayed income

Projects take years to mature. Verification

cycles mean payments may only arrive

after multiple seasons. Any farmer

relying on immediate cashflow should

proceed cautiously.

Practical steps for

interested farmers

Get the data right. Use available tools like

DESTiny to establish a baseline footprint. You

cannot manage what you cannot measure.

Partner wisely. Choose aggregators with

transparent MRV systems, clear payment

structures and proven verification records.

Understand your rights. Have contracts

reviewed for permanence obligations, data

ownership and exit conditions.

Prioritise co-benefits. Focus on changes

that also improve profitability – better grazing,

manure management and nutrient efficiency.

Plan long-term. Projects run for years,

sometimes decades. Consider succession

planning and land transfer implications.

The market outlook: Tightening

rules, rising credibility

South Africa’s Treasury and the Department

of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment are

working to formalise a national carbon-credit

registry and align local standards with global

best practice. The goal is to ensure traceability

and avoid double-counting – a crucial step

for international recognition.

If successful, these reforms could increase

both local and export demand for verified

credits. International buyers are already

seeking African offsets with strong social

and environmental co-benefits, positioning

agriculture – especially pasture-based

systems – as a competitive supplier.

However, the market’s integrity depends

on rigour. Programmes that fail to prove

additionality or permanence will lose

credibility and prices for high-quality credits

will likely diverge sharply from those of

questionable projects.


A cautious opportunity

for dairies

For the average South African dairy

farmer, carbon credit trading is best

seen as a bonus, not a business model.

It can supplement income and enhance

environmental credentials but should

never replace core production goals.

The most successful participants will be

those who integrate emission reductions

into broader sustainability strategies –

improving soil fertility, feed efficiency and

resilience to drought.

Carbon markets reward good data, patience

and partnerships built on trust. Farmers who

rush in without understanding the obligations

risk locking themselves into restrictive

contracts or exposing themselves to liability

for decades.

Before signing up, dairy producers

should ask five key questions:

» What is my farm’s current

emission baseline?

» Who owns the credits generated – me or

the aggregator?

» How are MRV costs and risks shared?

» When will I actually get paid?

» Do the required practices improve

productivity even without carbon income?

If the answers are satisfactory, joining a

verified carbon programme could be a

sound strategic move. If not, it is wiser to

wait until the market matures and regulatory

clarity improves.

Conclusion

Carbon credit trading offers dairy farmers

a route to participate in the low-carbon

economy while improving their land and

reputation. But it remains a developing,

technical and sometimes opaque field.

As South Africa’s regulatory framework

matures and as corporate demand for

credible offsets rises, the opportunity will

grow – but so will scrutiny.

For now, the smartest dairy farmers will

tread carefully – measure first, partner

wisely and never sign away long-term

rights for short-term gain.




FLY

MANAGEMENT:

Protecting your herd

and your profits

Flies are more than just a nuisance; they are a

serious threat to animal health and farm profitability.

In South Africa, flies from the order Diptera include

over 91 families, and several species directly impact

livestock. From spreading diseases to causing

irritation and production losses, effective fly control

is essential for every farmer.



Why flies matter

Flies don’t just irritate animals, they cost

money. Studies show that stable flies alone

can reduce milk production by up to 1,49 kg

per cow per day, translating into billions in

losses globally. In South Africa, blowfly strike

in small stock was estimated to cost R19,8

million annually in the 1990s – and the

problem persists.

Flies transmit diseases like:

» Brucellosis, mastitis, and eye infections

(house flies)

» Lumpy skin disease and anaplasmosis

(stable flies)

» Blue tongue virus and African horse

sickness (midges)

Understanding the fly life cycle

The fly life cycle can be completed in

7 – 15 days, making rapid population

growth possible.

Key stages:

» Eggs: Laid in manure, compost, carcasses,

or rotting tissue.

» Larvae (maggots): Feed and develop

before burrowing into soil.

» Pupae: Transition stage before adulthood.

» Adults: Only 15% of the population, but

responsible for spreading disease.

Knowing this cycle is critical for timing control

measures effectively.

» Anthrax and trypanosomiasis (various

biting flies)

Indirect effects include stress, reduced

feeding time, and weight loss, all impacting

milk and meat production.

FLY LIFE CYCLE


Integrated fly control:

The smart approach

Chemical control alone won’t solve the problem.

A holistic strategy combines environmental

management, targeted treatments and monitoring.

Environmental hygiene

» Remove carcasses promptly.

» Clean manure and compost

heaps regularly.

» Spread manure to dry quickly.

» Eliminate wet areas where flies breed.

Manure treatment

Use insect growth

regulators (IGRs) to break

the fly life cycle at the larval

stage without harming

beneficial organisms.

Control in stables

Indoor residual sprays

and poisoned baits help

reduce fly numbers in

housing areas.

Control on animals

Pyrethroid-based dips and pourons

kill adult flies and larvae

while repelling new infestations.



Monitoring fly burden

» Stable flies: Count flies on the front legs of

15 animals mid-morning. More than 3 flies

per leg signals economic risk.

» House flies: Use sticky ribbons in stables;

over 100 flies per tape per week indicates

high infestation.

The cost of doing nothing

In 2019, fly-related losses in the US livestock

industry were estimated at $2,2 billion (R40

billion). Locally, even a few flies per animal

can lead to significant production losses.

Investing in integrated fly control is not just

good practice – it’s essential for profitability.

Source: Afrivet – For detailed product

information and a full guide on fly

management, visit www.afrivet.co.za

SLIM BEHEER VAN VLIEË

Onoortreflike gehalte en professionele diens - in Suid-Afrika geteel vir Suid Afrikaanse vlieë

BISA

BIED U:

• Vliegbeheer op die natuurlike manier.

• Langtermyn ekonomiese voordele.

• Minder chemiese besoedeling.

• ‘n Bemarkingsvoordeel deur

omgewingsvriendelike landbouproduksie.

HOE DIT

WERK:

Vliegparasiete (Muscidifurax raptor) word in ‘n insektarium

geteel en is beskikbaar in pakkies van 5 000. Hierdie parasitiese wespes

word gereeld by vliegbroeiplekke op die plaas losgelaat. Die volwasse

wesp steek die papie van die vlieg, dood dit in die proses en lê eiers in

die papie. Die eiers teer op die dooie vliegpapie en ontwikkel ‘n wespe.

Die wespe broei binne 19-21 dae uit en begin dan die soektog na

vliegpapies as voedsel en waarin hulle kan eiers lê.

BISA het agente landswyd.

Vir meer inligting, kontak:

Arno Moore (PhD)

Besturende direkteur

083 270 4866

arno@bioinsectsa.com

Helouise Rumbles

Kantoor

083 566 4784

bisa@bioinsectsa.com


by Dr BE Mostert, SA Stud Book

Globally, for many years, milk production traits carried more

emphasis in the total merit indices for dairy cows. These traits

are easy to measure and resulted in reliable and easily obtained

genetic rankings. This led to significant improvements in milk

and solid yields, but at the cost of fertility and longevity.

It is well known that profit in dairy herds is

not just a function of output and product

quality, but also expenses and losses. The

selection pressure for higher production

had deleterious effects on fertility resulting

in lower profitability in dairy systems. This

has led to a realisation that non-production

traits must also be considered in selection

combined indices. Today the pendulum has

swung in favour of fitness that is resulting in

the weight on fertility in total merit indices

to be as high as 25% in some countries.

Within the South African National Information

and Evaluation System (SAINET) for the

South African Jersey breed, fertility carries a

weighting of 15%.



INTERBULL values

for female fertility

International genetic evaluations, carried out

by INTERBULL in Sweden, estimate multiple

across-country evaluation (MACE) breeding

values for five fertility trait groups, i.e. maiden

heifers’ ability to conceive; lactating cows’

ability to recycle after calving; lactating cows’

ability to conceive (measured as a ‘rate’ trait);

lactating cows’ ability to conceive (measured

as an interval trait); and for lactating cows’,

also the measurement of the interval from

calving to conception. The best, and therefore

most useful genetic correlations among

the different participating countries, are

for interval from first to last insemination,

interval from first insemination to conception,

non-return rate, interval from calving to first

insemination, days open, and calving interval.

The genetic correlation for calving interval

between South Africa and other countries

varies from 0,70 – observed with Canada,

Denmark–Finland–Sweden (DFS) and the

Netherlands – to 0,83 with the United States.

The genetic correlations among all countries

participating in INTERBULL evaluations,

ranges from 0,62 between New Zealand and

the Netherlands, to 0,84 between Canada

and DFS. This is a particularly important

indicator as reranking can be expected

in all countries for international artificial

insemination sires’ performance for fertility

traits. The sire ranking highest for fertility in

the United States may therefore not be the

top performer in South Africa or any of the

other participating countries.

LogixSync

Since 2017, all cow and milk weights, as well

as insemination information and pregnancy

diagnoses from farm software programs are

captured on the LogixSync functionality of SA

Stud Book. On a weekly basis, this information

is uploaded and incorporated into the official

milk recording data on Logix, the central

database of SA Stud Book. Researchers of SA

Stud Book could therefore use the artificial

insemination and pregnancy information

for estimation of breeding values for fertility

traits as recommended by INTERBULL.

General statistics for these traits are

indicated in Table 1.

Table 1 General statistics of fertility traits of

the SA Jersey breed captured by LogixSync

Min Max Avg Modus SD

AFI (days) 255 816 446,89 425 60,44

IFLI_h (days) 1 210 18,63 1,21 34,84

IFLI_c (days) 1 210 26,13 1,21 39,75

CtFI (days) 21 150 71,37 63 20,55

FItC_h (days) 260 460 295,72 281 31,09

FItC_c (days) 260 460 304,49 281 36,99

Days open (days) 23 360 98,49 69 46,11

Gestation length 260 310 281,08 281 5,97

(Min = lowest value, Max = highest value,

Avg = average, SD = standard deviation)


Traits investigated were age at first

insemination (AFI); interval from first to last

insemination for heifers (IFLI_h); interval from

first to last insemination for cows (IFLI_c);

interval from calving to first insemination

(CtFI); interval from first insemination to

calving of heifers (FItC_h); interval from first

insemination to calving of cows (FItC_c); days

open (DO) and gestation length.

Environmental effects that significantly

influenced these traits included herd, age

at calving, year and month of insemination,

parity of the cow and sex of the calf (gestation

length). Unfortunately, the identity of the

inseminator and condition scores of the

females were not recorded consistently

enough for inclusion in the model.

In the following tables, the heritabilities

and genetic correlations are indicated for

fertility as traits of the heifer (Table 2) and

cow (Table 3).

Table 2 Heritabilities ± standard error (on the diagonal) and genetic correlations

± standard error (above the diagonal) for fertility traits of SA Jersey heifers

HEIFERS AFI IFLI FITC NRR

AFI 0,379 ± 0,058 −0,522 ± 0,286 −0,039 ± 0,389 0,094 ± 0,382

IFLI 0,033 ± 0,016 0,848 ± 0,108 −0,020 ± 0,867

FITC 0,023 ± 0,012 −0,209 ± 0,726

NRR 0,029 ± 0,014

(AFI = age first insemination; IFLI = interval first to last insemination;

FITC = first insemination to calving; NRR = non-return rate)

Table 3 Heritabilities ± standard error (on the diagonal) and genetic correlations

± standard error (above the diagonal) for fertility traits of SA Jersey cows

COWS CtFI IFLI FITC NRR DO GL

CtFI

0,033 ±

0,004

0,300 ±

0,020

0,164 ±

0,019

−0,458 ±

0,080

0,544 ±

0,017

−0,353 ±

0,039

IFLI

0,073 ±

0,003

0,990 ±

0,001

−0,515 ±

0,075

0,963 ±

0,005

0,730 ±

0,035

FITC

0,082 ±

0,004

−0,466 ±

0,077

0,917 ±

0,007

0,805 ±

0,028

NRR

0,0198 ±

0,003

−0,582 ±

0,072

−0,238 ±

0,097

DO

0,075 ±

0,003

0,543 ±

0,041

GL

0,0463 ±

0,004

(CtFI = calving to first insemination; IFLI = interval first to last insemination; FITC = first

insemination to calving; NRR = non-return rate; DO = days open; GL = gestation length)



Except for age at first insemination, the

heritabilities for the fertility traits are low, but

well within the range of similar estimates

published in the scientific literature.

Genetic correlations between the interval

traits are moderately to highly positive,

as can be expected. Non-return rate is

negatively correlated to the interval traits,

which is also expected, as longer intervals

are genetically associated to lower nonreturn

rates. Genetically higher ages at

first insemination are associated with faster

conceptions. Interestingly and possibly

unexpected, a genetic tendency for a longer

interval from calving to first insemination will

favour animals with a genetic tendency for a

shorter gestation length, while the tendency

for longer intervals between first and last

insemination and first insemination to calving

will result in favouring animals with longer

days open and longer gestation lengths.

In conclusion

Fertility in dairy cattle breeding is

essential because it ensures regular

calving, supports sustained lactations,

reduces replacement and veterinary

costs and improves lifetime productivity

and profitability. Even though most

fertility traits show low heritabilities,

genetic improvement delivers large

economic returns and contributes

to greater herd sustainability. The

capturing of artificial insemination and

pregnancy diagnoses data from farm

software via LogixSync enables the

estimation of breeding values for the

construction of an informative fertility

index that will be incorporated in the

SAINET in the future.


LABOUR

COLUMN

by Anneline Scriven

PAYMENTS

DUE UPON

TERMINATION

There are various ways in which an

employment contract may terminate.

Generally, this occurs when an employee

resigns, reaches the retirement age set

by the workplace, is retrenched due to

operational requirements, or is dismissed

for misconduct, poor work performance,

or medical incapacity. The employer’s

obligations differ under each of these

circumstances; therefore, it is essential

that employers understand what payments

should be made upon termination to

ensure compliance with labour legislation.



When an Employee Resigns

Resignation should preferably be submitted in

writing. If an employee resigns with immediate

effect, the employer may institute civil

action for any damages suffered as a result

of the employee not working the required

notice period. The employer does not have

to remunerate the employee for the notice

period if they resign with immediate effect;

however, the employer cannot withhold the

employee’s final salary. The employee must be

paid for the notice period worked up to their

last working day and any accumulated leave is

also payable.

When an Employee Reaches

Retirement Age

It is crucial for an employment contract to

clearly specify the retirement age within the

business. If no retirement age is stipulated,

the employer should implement a retirement

age policy. The statutory notice period

still applies when an employee retires. The

employer must provide the required notice to

ensure that the employee’s last working day

aligns with the date specified in the contract

or policy. The employee is paid up to their last

working day and accumulated leave is due.

Employees are not legally entitled to payment

for years of service upon retirement. Any exgratia

payments (made out of goodwill) are at

the employer’s discretion and are not a legal

requirement.

When an Employee

is Retrenched

Before retrenchment, the correct procedures

must be followed. A retrenched employee

is entitled to accumulated leave, notice

pay (if applicable) and severance pay. If the

employer does not require the employee to

work during the notice period, notice pay

must still be paid. Severance pay is a legal

requirement and must equal at least one

week’s remuneration for every completed

year of service.

When an Employee is Dismissed

for Misconduct

Before dismissal, the employer must

ensure sufficient grounds exist and that a

fair procedure is followed. If an employee

is dismissed for misconduct after being

found guilty at a disciplinary hearing, they

must receive their salary up to the date the

dismissal outcome was communicated and

finalised. Accumulated leave is also payable.

No notice period applies when dismissal is

for misconduct.

Employer Obligations

Upon Termination

Employers must provide the employee with a

certificate of service and a final salary advice

upon termination. A UI19 document must be

completed and submitted to the Department

of Employment and Labour. Maintaining a

healthy working relationship is important –

keep communication lines open to address

any issues that may arise.


RESEARCH

COLUMN

by Dr Heinz H. Meissner

REVISITING

BOVINE

SOMATOTROPIN:

Updating the science on

safety, productivity and

sustainability

Bovine somatotropin (bST), commonly

known as growth hormone, is a naturally

occurring hormone that acts as a vital

regulator of growth and milk production in

cattle. Given its extensive role in metabolic

and growth functions, bST has been the

subject of numerous investigations into its

effects on animal nutrition, metabolism, health

and well-being, as well as consumer concerns

regarding product safety, milk quality and

manufacturing characteristics.

In the early 1980s, scientists successfully

developed recombinant bST (rbST) to

explore whether lactation gains could be

advanced and sustained over longer periods.

While commercial use began in the United

States in 1994, with many other countries

following, its adoption generated substantial

controversy. Consumer group pressure

and marketing strategies, including ‘rbSTfree’

labelling and promotions, led many

governments and some industry cooperatives

to ban or discourage its use.


NAVORSING EN OPLEIDING • RESEARCH AND TRAINING

The core issue remains whether the

negative perceptions and resulting bans on

rbST are scientifically justified. The purpose of

the cited review is to update the human and

animal safety findings on rbST and evaluate

its impact on productivity and sustainability.

Milk Production

and Composition

Enhanced Productivity

The milk yield response to rbST has been

extensively gauged. A large field study in the

1990s, involving 340 herds and over 80,000

cows across a four-year period, reported a

significant average daily response of 3,6 kg/

cow more milk than control cows at the

production plateau. A large proportion

of cows demonstrated a response of

approximately 5 kg/cow, a magnitude since

confirmed by later meta-analysis studies. This

increased milk yield is observed across all

breeds and in cows of varying genetic merit.

Crucially, the data demonstrated that the

nutrient requirements for maintenance

and per unit of milk were unchanged. This

means that no special diets are required for

rbST-treated cows. However, management

quality remains essential; if nutrition or

management is inadequate to support the

intended increase in milk yield, little response

should be anticipated.

The mechanism for milk stimulation is

largely indirect. While the precise pathway

is not fully known, current understanding

suggests that somatotropin does not act

directly on udder epithelial cells. Instead,

the IGF system indirectly mediates its

anabolic effects. Administering exogenous

bST increases circulating IGF-I, leading to

a production response apparent within 24

hours of the first injection. The maximum

production response is typically reached

within four to six days.

Milk Composition

Intensive studies confirm that the

nutritional components of milk and their

manufacturing characteristics are not

altered by rbST administration. Although the

overall yield of milk protein increases due to

the higher total milk volume, the milk protein

content and the pattern of specific milk

proteins remain unaltered. Factors like

genetics, diet, season and breed influence

milk composition identically in rbST-treated

cows and control groups.


Animal Welfare

and Reproduction

Health and Body Condition

Scientific consensus suggests that rbST

poses no mastitis concern. Furthermore,

there is no indication that the use of

antibiotics or milk antibiotic residues are

increased due to rbST treatment. While a

small positive relationship exists between

mastitis and milk yield generally, changes

related to yield are considered negligible

when contrasted with other major factors,

such as parity, season, stage of lactation and

interherd variation.

There is no direct relationship between

rbST and body condition. However,

scientific reviews and reports show that

rbST-treated cows experience an immediate

increase in milk yield, followed by a more

gradual increase in voluntary feed intake

necessary to maintain body reserves and

support the nutrient requirements for the

higher yield.

Maximising Profitability

For producers globally, achieving the

maximum economic benefit from bST use

depends on enforcing proper management

practices. This includes feeding cows to

maximise the intake of appropriately balanced

and nutrient-dense diets, maintaining

proper body condition and implementing

preventative, rather than curative, health and

reproduction management programmes.

Data from several studies involving

over 800 cows demonstrated that milk

production levels were a more significant

factor affecting reproduction than rbST

itself. Reproductive parameters such as

pregnancy rates, twinning, cystic ovaries,

abortions, or days open were reported to be

unaffected by the treatment. This evidence

supports the concept that managing highly

producing cows, regardless of whether

that high production is achieved through

rbST, requires a longer breeding interval to

adjust to metabolic demands. Extending the

voluntary waiting period for high-yielding

cows up to 120 days did not negatively affect

key performance indicators of profitability.

Human Safety

Concerns regarding human safety of

rbST have not been an issue. This is

demonstrated by the fact that countries

which have not approved rbST for commercial

use, such as the European Union and

Canada, still import dairy products from

rbST-supplemented cows and market

them without restrictions or special label

requirements.

The Joint Expert Committee on Food

Additives (JECFA), an independent body

providing risk assessments to the WHO and

FAO, concluded that the ‘lack of oral activity

of rbST and IGF-I’ combined with the low

levels and non-toxic nature of the residues,

even at extremely high doses, ‘provide



an unusually large margin of safety

for humans consuming dairy products

from rbST-treated cows’. Furthermore,

a large study estimated the risk of human

illnesses caused by resistant bacteria due

to rbST administration to be extremely low,

approximately one event per one billion

people per year.

The Global

Sustainability Argument

Beyond its proven efficacy and safety, the

most compelling argument for utilising

rbST, particularly in the context of climate

change and growing global populations,

is its positive effect on sustainability.

Sustainability focuses on meeting human food

requirements while mitigating environmental

impact. Since rbST enhances milk production,

fewer cows are theoretically needed to

produce the same amount of protein, thereby

reducing the sector’s environmental footprint.

For powerful illustration, projections

from 2008 suggested that if the US milk

supply had been met by using rbST in

only 15% of the national dairy herd, the

resulting reduction in the carbon footprint

would have been equivalent to removing

390,000 cars from the roads each year

or planting approximately 290 million trees

annually. The environmental benefit resulting

from gains in feed efficiency also equated

to freeing up 540,000 acres of farmland

currently dedicated to producing dairy

feedstuffs, reducing enough fossil fuel to

heat over 15,000 homes and decreasing

water use sufficient to supply approximately

10,000 homes.

Concluding Remarks

Worldwide, rbST is commercially utilised

in about 20 countries. Global use has

shown manageable effects on cow

health, reproductive performance, or

herd longevity when effective on-farm

management practices are employed.

Utilising rbST consistently improves milk

production and feed efficiency.

Importantly for both consumers and

producers, dairy products derived from

cows receiving rbST are safe for human

consumption and using rbST markedly

reduces the environmental footprint

associated with producing high-quality

protein. Thus, rbST remains a valuable tool

for maximising producer profitability while

simultaneously improving the sustainability of

the dairy sector globally.

Reference: R. J. Collier, D. E. Bauman

& L. H. Baumgard, 2025. Invited review:

Somatotropin and lactation biology.

J. Dairy Sci. 108, 6538–6549.

https://doi.org/10.3168/jds.2024-26177.


VAN VELD

TOT VEILING

— ons lewer

VIR VERDERE NAVRAE RAKENDE OVK LEWENDEHAWE, KONTAK:

OVK Lewendehawe-kantoor (Ladybrand): 051 923 4602 / Streekkantore:

(Burgersdorp) 051 653 1855, (Cradock) 048 881 3484, (Ficksburg) 051 933 7662,

(Hopetown) 053 203 9201 / OVK Nasionale Lewendehawe Bestuurder 083 452 9557

HOOFKANTOOR: Ladybrand 051 923 4500 • KLANTEDIENS: 051 923 4598 / klantediens@ovk.co.za



Hoe om ’n

WERKSPAN

GEMOTIVEERD en

GEÏNSPIREERD te hou

deur Ferdi Hartzenberg

’n Suksesvolle boerdery floreer danksy ’n

hardwerkende en toegewyde span, maar met lang

ure, herhalende take, weersprobleme en beperkte

loopbaangroei kan dit uitdagend raak.

Deur ’n deeglike motiveringstrategie

te volg, kan personeel gemotiveerd

gehou word wat betekenisvolle

resultate sal lewer.

Motivering beïnvloed gedrag en

bied verbintenis by die werksplek.

Gemotiveerde werknemers werk harder en

lewer konstruktiewe insette. Inspirerende

leiers, asook ’n positiewe werksmilieu,

kan betrokkenheid en produktiwiteit dus

verhoog. Voorts, skep ’n ondersteunende

werkskultuur met werkbare prosedures, ’n

meer gemotiveerde span.

Gemotiveerde spanne verbeter prestasie

deur inisiatief te neem en na verhoogde groei

te strewe. Bemagtigde werkers ondersteun

die besigheidstrategie en strewe daarna

om besigheidsdoelwitte te bereik. Werkers

wat betrokke voel, wakker produktiwiteit en

besigheidsgroei aan.

Met die einde van die jaar byna in sig,

is dit van uiterste belang om werknemers

gemotiveerd te hou. Werkers voel afgerem

na ’n lang jaar en aangesien hul vlakke

van motivering wissel, is effektiewe

strategieë nodig om werkers se optimale

dryfkrag te behou.

Vriendelikheid en opregte sorg motiveer

werknemers, wat toegewydheid en

produktiwiteit verhoog en aan die boerdery ’n

voorsprong bied.


Hier is ’n paar praktiese

strategieë om werkers

gemotiveerd te hou:

» Inisieer verandering met

’n eerste stap

Elke reis begin met een dapper stap. Wanneer

werkers gewaardeerd en gemotiveerd voel, is

hulle aangespoor om meer produktief te wees

en lojaliteit te toon.

» Meer as net vergoeding –

verstaan intrinsieke motivering

Terwyl mededingende salarisse noodsaaklik

is, strek ware motivering verder as vergoeding.

Die vervulling van behoeftes en die erkenning

aan bevoegdheid is die ware aspekte was

werkers inspireer.

» Bevorder outonomie en

verantwoordelikheid

Werkers, of dit nou seisoenale of permanente

personeel is, voel meer gewaardeerd,

wanneer daar aan hulle eienaarskap van

take toegeken word. Outonomie behels die

vertroue in werkers om hul werk binne duidelik

gedefinieerde grense te bestuur.

» Belyn grense en verwagtinge

Stel duidelike grense en verwagtinge van die

begin af; definieer doelwitte en tydlyne en gee

aan werknemers die geleentheid om insette

gee oor hoe hierdie doelwitte bereik kan word.

Daardeur word ’n positiewe en samewerkende

omgewing geskep.

» Delegeer betekenisvolle take

Vertrou werkers met verantwoordelikhede

soos toerustingonderhoud of kwaliteitkontrole,

bo en behalwe normale roetinetake. Dit toon

respek en beklemtoon vaardighede.



» Verbeter vaardighede deur

opleidingsgeleenthede

Vertroue in werk verhoog werkers se moraal.

Opleiding in nuwe tegnieke en masjinerie

ondersteun weer groei en toon ook

plaasondersteuning vir individue se toekoms.

» Gee erkenning aan kundigheid

Vier spansuksesse openhartig – moedig

mentorskap aan om leiers te ontwikkel en

bevorder ’n ondersteunende omgewing.

» Bevorder ’n kultuur van

wedersydse verbinding en respek

Gedugte spanne maak staat op sterk

verhoudings. Werknemers sal of bly of

bedank, op grond van hul verhouding met hul

werkgewer – en meer spesifiek die respek wat

hulle ontvang.

» Deursigtige leierskap en visie

Deel die groter prentjie met werkers om hulle

te inspireer en te wys hoe hul take kan bydra

tot die plaas se sukses.

» Konsekwente kommunikasie

Bied gereelde terugvoersessies aan

rakende boerdery doelwitte en uitdagings

– en om prestasies te bespreek. Identifiseer

probleme vroegtydig met behoorlilke

kommunikasie. Wanneer werknemers ervaar

hoe hul werk tot sukses bydra, dra dit by tot

verhoogde motivering.

» Betoon dankbaarheid

Erken pogings met opregte dank,

komplimente of spanvieringe en deel

besonderhede van die prestasies met ander

spanlede om die impak te verhoog.


» Fokus op gesondheid, veiligheid

en balans tussen werk en lewe

Prioritiseer veiligheid en welstand van werkers

om moraal te verhoog. Moedig die gebruik

van persoonlike beskermende toerusting aan

en handhaaf netjiese, veilige werkruimtes.

» Buigsame werksure

Bied buigsame werksure waar moontlik en

skeduleer gereelde aftyd om uitbranding te

voorkom en werkers gewaardeerd te laat voel.

» Praktiese aansporings

en belonings

Beloon pogings met finansiële aansporings,

soos bonusse gekoppel aan duidelike

doelwitte, of nie-kontantvoordele soos

gesondheidsorg of behuisingsondersteuning.

Die bou van respek en omgee vir plaaswerkers

skep ’n gemotiveerde en gedugte span wat

toegewy is aan die plaas se sukses en ’n

positiewe, florerende besigheid bevorder.

Ferdi Hartzenberg is ’n direkteur by

Hartcorp Human Capital Solutions (Pty)

Ltd, ’n konsultasiefirma wat spesialiseer

in personeel- en arbeidsverhouding

oplossings vir klein en medium sake

ondernemings.

Kontak hom gerus by: 082 7714 655 |

ferdi@hartcorp.co.za


MOO-VING WHEELS

SOUTH AFRICA’S

FREIGHT SECTOR:

Slowly getting back on track

What the Ctrack Transport & Freight Index

means for dairy farmers and the road ahead.

If you have been wondering why transport costs feel

unpredictable lately, you are not alone. South Africa’s

logistics sector has been through a rough patch, but the

latest Ctrack Transport and Freight Index (TFI) show

signs of recovery, albeit a slow one.


After hitting a two-year low in January,

the index climbed 3,5% by September.

That is progress, but the sector is still

only 0,7% stronger than last year. In plain

terms: the wheels are turning, but we are not

out of the mud yet.

‘The steady recovery observed in the

broader logistics sector is indeed welcomed.

Also, the notable progress on structural

reforms to modernise the freight logistics

sector. These reforms will in due course

impact the economy positively by reducing

transport costs, while it should enable robust

export growth and facilitate job creation,’

says Nicolaas van Reede van Oudtshoorn,

Marketing Manager at Ctrack.

Road freight: Still king,

but under pressure

Road freight moves 85% of South Africa’s

goods, including most dairy-related products.

But delays at Durban port, cross-border

holdups, and even truck arson have made life

tough for hauliers. The good news? Heavy

truck traffic on the N3 grew by 3,8% this

year, thanks to better port operations. The bad

news? The N4 route saw a sharp 20% drop

after years of booming growth.

For farmers, this means fluctuating

transport costs and delivery times, especially

if you rely on imported feed or export

dairy products.

Rail freight: A slow comeback

Rail is finally showing signs of life. Government

reforms and Transnet’s recovery plan have

nudged volumes up 3,3% this year. If this

trend continues, rail could become a costeffective

option for bulk feed and longhaul

shipments.

Ports & sea freight: Still lagging

South Africa’s ports remain among the worst

globally, but private sector partnerships and

new equipment are helping. Sea freight grew

1,7% this year – good news if you export dairy

or import machinery.

Air Freight: Flying high

Air cargo is the star performer, up 6,8% in

2025. While not a primary channel for dairy,

it’s handy for urgent shipments like veterinary

supplies or specialised equipment.


MOO-VING WHEELS

8

6

Growth rate (%)

4

2

0

–0,8%

ROAD

+3,3%

RAIL

+6,8%

AIR

+1,7%

SEA

+3,5%

INDEX

Overall index recovery: +3,5% since January

What this means for dairy farmers

» Budget for volatility: Road freight costs may remain

unpredictable until reforms fully kick in.

» Explore rail options: If you move large volumes, rail could

become a viable alternative soon.

» Plan ahead for exports: Port delays are improving but still

pose risks – factor this into your timelines.

» Stay informed: Logistics reforms will directly impact farm

profitability.


The bottom line:

The freight sector is recovering, but at a slow

and uneven pace. For dairy farmers, this isn’t

just background noise, it directly affects your

bottom line. Transport costs, delivery timelines

and access to feed or export markets hinge

on how quickly these improvements take hold.

Keeping an eye on trends like rail’s gradual

comeback, air freight’s strong growth, and

ongoing port reforms isn’t just smart – it is

essential for staying competitive and planning

ahead. These reforms will eventually reduce

costs and unlock export potential, creating

opportunities for farmers who are ready to

adapt. The wheels are turning – slowly, but in

the right direction.

Contact:

Nicolaas van Reede van Oudtshoorn

Marketing Manager

nicolaas.vanreede@ctrack.com

Source: Ctrack Transport & Freight Index, Q3 2025

Notice from Ctrack: The Ctrack Transport and

Freight Index is published on a quarterly basis

to provide insights into key industry trends and

performance metrics.



The Dairy Mail Nov 2025

Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!

Delete template?

Save as template ?