By Learnmore Chiposo | Supra Feeds

Summer brings high temperatures, which can cause broilers to suffer from heat or summer stress. This condition arises when there is an imbalance between heat production and heat loss in the birds' bodies. If left unchecked, heat stress can lead to significant losses, including poor growth, low feed consumption, high feed conversion ratios (FCR), and increased mortality. These challenges are exacerbated in high-humidity environments.

Maize farming is a cornerstone of food security and income generation for many farmers. By implementing the right practices at every stage—land preparation, planting, fertilizing, and management—you can achieve high yields and improve your livelihood. Here’s an essential guide to thriving maize production.

Choosing the right land for farming is a critical decision that can significantly impact the success and productivity of your agricultural endeavors. Various factors, including financial, legal, and physical elements, need careful consideration. This guide outlines these crucial factors to help farmers and potential farmers make informed decisions.

Feather pecking and cannibalism are persistent issues in laying hen production systems, often leading to significant losses. Cannibalism typically begins with pecking at fresh wounds on a hen’s body, such as those on the back or excretory channels. Initially, this behavior may seem non-aggressive, appearing as part of the normal feeding behavior.

Harare, Zimbabwe - November 21, 2024

Zimbabwe has taken a significant step toward combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing by signing the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Charter for the establishment of the Regional Fisheries Monitoring Control and Surveillance Coordination Centre (MCSCC). The landmark ceremony, held at Rainbow Towers in Harare, cements Zimbabwe's position as the 13th SADC Member State to accede to the Charter, showcasing its commitment to sustainable fisheries management.

Investing in machinery is a significant decision for any agribusiness. Proper evaluation is essential to ensure that the investment enhances productivity, efficiency, and profitability. Here is a comprehensive checklist to guide agribusiness owners through the decision-making process for machinery investment.

Choosing the right farm enterprise is a critical decision that impacts the profitability and sustainability of your agricultural venture. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just starting, evaluating the following factors ensures you make an informed choice.

10 November 2024 | As the rainy season begins to sweep across the nation, farmers are encouraged to start planting. According to Professor Obert Jiri, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, farmers should take immediate action to begin planting in areas where rainfall has been adequate.

The Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA) has released the latest figures for the 2024 winter wheat season, showcasing a continued upward trend in wheat production across the country. The report highlights significant growth, demonstrating Zimbabwe's ongoing efforts toward food security and sustainable agricultural development.

Dear Farmer,

Every season, we sow our seeds with hope. We toil under the sun, water the crops with care, and dream of a better harvest—a better life. But have you ever paused to ask yourself: What does “better” mean? And when is it enough?

In the poultry industry, every stage of a bird’s life matters, and successful poultry enterprises prioritize careful chick management from day one. Proper chick management ensures that young birds grow into healthy, productive adults, optimizing production outcomes. Errors made during this critical stage are often irreversible, impacting productivity and profitability. Here, we outline essential practices for effective chick management, covering all critical phases from preparation to early brooding.

Farming has long been seen as a solitary profession. Many farmers wake up before dawn, tend to their land and livestock, and face the day’s challenges in isolation. But what if it didn’t have to be that way? What if the journey of a farmer could be shared, supported, and even accelerated through collaboration, knowledge exchange, and mentorship? This is the driving philosophy behind the Agribusiness Club — farming doesn’t have to be a lonely journey. 

Zero tillage, also known as no-tillage or chemical tillage, is a revolutionary agricultural technique that minimizes soil disturbance, offering significant benefits to farmers and the environment. This advanced farming method is gaining traction worldwide, especially in areas prone to soil erosion and where the cost of traditional tillage is prohibitive. But what exactly is zero tillage, and how does it work? Let’s delve into the details.

Harare, Zimbabwe — November 6, 2024

Today, TSL and Agricura unveiled a newly upgraded animal health manufacturing plant in Harare, signifying a major step forward for Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector. The USD 600,000 upgrade enables the plant to produce high-quality veterinary medicines targeting common livestock parasites, including roundworms, tapeworms, and liver flukes, with an annual capacity of 240,000 to 360,000 litres.

Dear Farmer,

I hope this letter finds you well, standing tall amidst your crops and livestock, ready to face yet another season with the resilience that farming demands. I write to you not only as a fellow farmer but as someone who knows the hardships, triumphs, and uncertainties that come with the land we till. 

Harare, December 4, 2024 – Zimbabwean farmers are grappling with relentless dry weather and intense heat, as the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) warns of continued hot conditions in the days ahead.

The Richest Man in Babylon, written by George S. Clason, shares timeless wisdom on building wealth and financial security. The principles in this book can guide farmers on the path to financial growth and resilience. Here are essential lessons that I think farmers can learn from this classic:

Dear  Farmer,

During our last fireside chat, one of your friends indicated that the reason he doesn’t consider commercial farming is because he only has 1 acre of land (less than 0.5ha), another mentioned how she doesn’t practice the tenets of commercial farming even though she has large tracts of land. 

Soil Organic Matter (SOM) is a vital component of soil, influencing its physical structure, nutrient availability, and capacity to support plant life. Derived from plant and animal residues at various stages of decomposition, SOM is integral to maintaining soil fertility and sustainability. This article explores its components, benefits, and strategies for effective management.

As a farmer, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing which products to grow and where to sell them. Selecting the right crops or livestock and identifying the best markets can make the difference between success and struggle.