Foreword from Mr. Kinnear, CEO of Reliance Poultry Equipment

"As we enter 2025, Reliance Poultry Equipment remains committed to advancing the poultry industry through innovation, sustainability, and excellence. With over three decades of experience, we have built a reputation for delivering high-quality poultry equipment tailored to the needs of farmers across South and Sub-Saharan Africa. Looking ahead, our mission is to continue enhancing farm productivity, sustainability, and efficiency through cutting-edge solutions and strategic partnerships. We are dedicated to ensuring that poultry farming remains a viable, profitable, and future-ready industry." - Mr. Peter Kinnear, CEO, Reliance Poultry Equipment

Poultry Equipment: Shaping the Future of Poultry Farming

As one of the leading poultry equipment manufacturers and distributors in the region, Reliance Poultry Equipment continues to set industry benchmarks in quality, efficiency, and sustainability. The company's focus for 2025 is centered on innovation, automation, and farmer success.

Key Focus Areas for 2025:

Automation & Smart Farming Solutions

We are investing in automated feeding, drinking, and climate control systems to improve farm productivity and reduce operational costs. These advancements will help farmers optimize resource management and maintain optimal conditions for flock health.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Farming Practices

With growing global emphasis on sustainability, we are committed to offering energy-efficient and waste-reducing poultry solutions. Our reconditioning services also help extend the lifespan of equipment, reducing environmental impact.

Expansion & Industry Collaboration

Reliance Poultry Equipment aims to expand its footprint, reaching more farmers with customized solutions for large and small-scale poultry operations. We will continue collaborating with industry stakeholders, government initiatives, and research institutions to drive sustainable growth in the poultry sector.

Supporting Farmers with Training & After-Sales Excellence

We believe that empowering farmers is key to industry growth. In 2025, we will expand training programs and provide ongoing support to ensure that farmers get the best out of their equipment. Looking Ahead

As the agricultural sector evolves, Reliance Poultry Equipment remains steadfast in its mission to support, innovate, and lead. By embracing advanced technologies, sustainability practices, and customer-focused strategies, we are well-positioned to shape the future of poultry farming in South Africa and beyond.

Road Services in South Africa

Road services play a critical role in South Africa's transportation infrastructure, supporting economic growth, trade, and daily mobility. The country has an extensive road network that connects cities, rural areas, and neighboring countries, making road transport the backbone of commerce and industry.

Efficient road services ensure the safe and smooth movement of goods and people. This includes road maintenance, traffic management, and emergency response services. Well-maintained roads reduce travel time, lower vehicle maintenance costs, and improve road safety. However, challenges such as potholes, congestion, and inadequate public transport systems affect the efficiency of road services.

Government initiatives, such as the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), oversee the development and maintenance of major highways and toll roads. Investments in road upgrades, smart traffic management systems, and alternative transport solutions are essential to improving mobility and reducing congestion in urban areas.

Additionally, road services are vital for emergency response, ensuring that ambulances, fire trucks, and law enforcement can reach their destinations quickly. Reliable road networks also enhance tourism, making travel between key destinations smoother and more enjoyable.

While road infrastructure development remains a priority, there is also a need for sustainable solutions, such as improved public transport, alternative fuels, and smart road technology. By enhancing road services, South Africa can boost economic activity, improve road safety, and create a more efficient transport system for all citizens.

The Importance of Water Saving in South Africa

Water is one of South Africa's most precious and limited resources. As a water-scarce country, South Africa faces ongoing challenges due to climate change, population growth, and increasing demand for water in agriculture, industry, and households. Efficient water usage is essential to ensure long-term sustainability and prevent future shortages.

South Africa's rainfall is lower than the global average, and many regions experience frequent droughts. The country's reliance on inconsistent rainfall means that careful water management is crucial for maintaining supplies for drinking, sanitation, food production, and economic activities. When water is wasted, it reduces availability for essential uses and threatens ecosystems, agriculture, and industries that rely on a stable water supply.

Saving water helps conserve natural ecosystems such as rivers, wetlands, and dams, which play a vital role in water filtration and biodiversity. When these water sources dry up due to overuse or drought, it negatively impacts wildlife, farming communities, and people who depend on them. Efficient water use also reduces pressure on South Africa's aging water infrastructure, preventing costly repairs and water losses due to leaks and inefficiencies.

Water-saving measures, such as fixing leaks, using water-efficient appliances, harvesting rainwater, and reducing unnecessary consumption, can make a significant difference. Government initiatives, businesses, and individuals must work together to promote sustainable water use through education, improved technology, and responsible consumption practices.

With growing concerns about climate change and future water security, South Africans must prioritize water conservation. By taking proactive steps to reduce wastage, the country can ensure a more resilient and sustainable water supply for generations to come.

Transforming the Poultry Industry: Government Support for Black-Owned Businesses

Government support for black-owned poultry businesses is crucial for industry transformation and national food security. However, sustained success hinges on black enterprises integrating across the entire poultry value chain. This perspective is shared by 37-year-old North West industrialist, Mr. Ofentse Moloko.

Moloko is the CEO and Managing Director of Baramakama Poultry, a family-owned egg-laying business in Molote City, North West. The company received R50 million in funding from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) under the Black Industrialists Programme. This initiative aims to enhance black participation in South Africa's industrial sectors and value chains.

"We are a testament to what black-owned businesses can achieve with government support in the poultry industry. Our journey began in 2016 when my father invested his savings to uplift the Molote City community. We saw an opportunity in poultry farming, particularly in egg production, due to its potential for job creation and economic transformation. For nearly three years, we sought financing from private banks, but our applications were repeatedly declined, primarily because the land belongs to the community. When the dtic and IDC approved our funding after thorough due diligence, it was a breakthrough moment for us," Moloko explains.

The financial backing enabled Baramakama to expand its operations, adding five new automated chicken houses and a modern pack station. This infrastructure boost increased their capacity from 100,000 to 280,000 hens and led to the creation of 40 additional jobs, raising the number of permanent employees from 80 to 112. Notably, nearly 80% of employees are young people, and 44% are women.

"Today, our operation runs 24 hours a day, producing an average of 225,000 eggs daily at full capacity. The government's support has positioned us as a recognized and influential player in the industry," says Moloko.

Despite his gratitude for government assistance, Moloko strongly advocates for broader support across the poultry value chain to ensure sustainability and long-term success.

"For true industry transformation and greater food security, government support must extend across the entire poultry value chain. This includes feed production, hatcheries, abattoirs, chick rearing, processing, and market access. Although we have achieved significant progress, we remain dependent on our main competitors for feed and hens. This vulnerability can be exploited, as supply access is often manipulated to control market conditions," he adds.

Moloko remains cautious about the Poultry Sector Master Plan, a collaborative effort between the government and industry stakeholders, including producers, processors, exporters, importers, and organized labor. While the plan aims to increase black participation and ownership across the value chain, Moloko believes that strategic industry decisions remain heavily influenced by established major players who resist new black entrants in profitable sectors.

Nonetheless, he remains optimistic that increased black participation across the value chain will drive industry transformation, enhance competition, and ultimately benefit all stakeholders.

8 hours ago

South Africa Shines at World Athletics Relay Championship with Double Gold

South Africa celebrated a remarkable achievement at the World Athletics Relay Championship in Guangzhou, China, on Sunday, securing double gold in the mens 4x100m and 4x400m events, while the womens 4x400m team earned a bronze medal.



The men’s 4x100m team, consisting of Bayanda Walaza, Sinesipho Dambile, Bradley Nkoana, and Akani Simbine, delivered an outstanding performance, finishing in a world-leading time of 37.61 seconds to clinch gold. Walaza, the Under-20 world 100m and 200m champion, set the pace for the team, with Dambile and Nkoana maintaining their position for the final exchange. Simbine, known for his explosive speed, showcased his talent by overtaking Brandon Hicklin of the US, turning an Olympic silver into gold. The US team finished second in 37.66 seconds, while Canada took third.



The South African team had previously set the fastest time in their first-round heat at 37.84 seconds and improved upon that in the final, coming just 0.04 seconds shy of the national record of 37.57 seconds, which was achieved during their silver medal performance at last year's Olympic Games in Paris.



In the men’s 4x400m event, the quartet of Gardeo Isaacs, Udeme Okon, Leendert Koekemoer, and Zakithi Nene also excelled, winning gold with a time of 2:57.50. They broke the South African record of 2:58.12, previously set by Nene, Isaacs, Lythe Pillay, and Antonie Nortje at the Paris Olympics. Belgium finished in second place with a time of 2:58.19.



The women’s 4x400m team, featuring Shirley Nekhubui, Miranda Coetzee, Precious Molepo, and Zeney Geldenhuys, secured a bronze medal with a time of 3:24.84. They shattered the national record of 3:28.01, which was set by the same athletes in the heats the previous day. Spain claimed gold in 3:24.13, while the US took silver in 3:24.72. Additionally, the South African mixed 4x400m team, comprising Van Niekerk, Mthi Mthimkulu, Jada van Staden, and Tumisang Shezi, finished fifth with a time of 3:16.29.



All four South African teams reached the finals of their events after strong performances in the heats on Saturday, qualifying automatically for the World Athletics Championships scheduled to take place in Tokyo in September. James Moloi, the president of Athletics South Africa, expressed immense pride in the athletes, coaches, and management, stating that they had met their goal of targeting the podium in each event. He noted the team's high spirits during their pre-departure camp in Johannesburg and emphasized the importance of preparation in achieving success.



The victorious South African team is set to return home on Tuesday, celebrating their outstanding accomplishments on the world stage.

4 days ago

South Africa launches Transformation Fund to drive economic inclusivity

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has hailed the launch of the Transformation Fund as a significant step towards fostering inclusive economic growth and transformation in South Africa. Speaking at a Business Breakfast Session at the Freedom Park Heritage Site and Museum in Pretoria recently, Mashatile described the day as historic, marking a key milestone in the nations journey toward economic transformation. He expressed strong support for the fund, stating it would act as a strategic vehicle for businesses to embrace change, foster innovation, and drive growth.



According to Mashatile, the fund will serve as a catalyst for financial support, guiding organizations through essential transitions and enabling them to seize new market opportunities. The Transformation Fund, which combines contributions from both public and private sectors, aims to unlock the potential of Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) and the Equity Equivalent Investment Programme, with a focus on economic inclusion for historically disadvantaged communities.



Mashatile emphasized the importance of the fund in providing enterprises with improved access to capital, which is crucial for remaining competitive in a dynamic environment. He noted that the fund would unleash the potential of ESD in driving economic inclusion and participation, positioning it at the center of the government’s economic agenda.



The deputy president highlighted the collaboration between the National Treasury and the Department of Women, Youth, and People with Disabilities in developing a framework for the fund. He stressed the need for speedy execution and the implementation of the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act to meet targets, particularly in the procurement of goods and services.



Mashatile commended the involvement of the private sector in co-funding the initiative, stating that the fund is anchored by contributions from both sectors to meet ESD and Equity Equivalent Investment Programme obligations. He noted that the centralized administration of the fund would enhance access to funding, particularly for Black-owned businesses in rural and township areas.



Funding will be allocated to various productive sectors, including services, tourism, and agriculture, with a focus on supporting majority Black-owned entities. Technical support and market access will be prioritized to ensure sustainability through inclusive interventions. Mashatile underscored the long-term benefits of the fund, which would foster resilience and adaptability in the face of economic challenges.



He also addressed the issue of corruption, asserting that economic transformation cannot be achieved without tackling corruption in both public and private sectors. He pointed out that corruption undermines small businesses by increasing costs and creating instability. To promote an inclusive economy, he called for a commitment to strengthening institutions, fostering transparency, and encouraging public engagement.



Furthermore, Mashatile stressed the need for solutions to improve access to finance for Black businesses, acknowledging that funding deficits contribute to the failure of small enterprises. He noted that while government interventions exist, additional measures are necessary to expand access to funding for SMMEs. He encouraged small businesses to explore government funding programs and support agencies like the National Empowerment Fund and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency.

5 days ago

Accelerating Digital Transformation in Africa: Insights from the B20 SA Taskforce

As global leaders convene for the G20 Financial Inclusion and Women’s Empowerment Conference in Sun City from May 6 to 9, the B20 SA Digital Transformation Taskforce recently unveiled an ambitious vision to enhance inclusive digital transformation across Africa. During a high-level panel at the United Nations Global Compact Network South Africa (GCNSA) Sustainability Leadership Conference, taskforce representatives discussed key policy priorities, barriers to progress, and Africas leadership in digital innovation.



The panel featured Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa, chair of the B20 SA Taskforce on Digital Transformation; Xolile Mabhongo, G20 SA Sous Sherpa; Cas Coovadia, B20 SA Sherpa; and Busi Mavuso, CEO of BLSA. Mahanyele-Dabengwa emphasized the vital role of the digital economy in shaping future economic opportunities. She stated that as the global economy becomes increasingly digital, it is essential to implement policies that foster innovation and ensure broad participation.



The taskforce identified four key priorities:



1. Connectivity: With nearly a third of the global population still offline, the taskforce advocates for investments in connectivity infrastructure and affordable digital devices, particularly in underserved regions and among women.



2. Skills Development: The digital revolution is projected to create 170 million new jobs by 2030 while displacing 92 million. The taskforce prioritizes both basic and advanced digital literacy to prepare individuals for a rapidly changing job market.



3. AI Ethics: As artificial intelligence transforms industries, the taskforce calls for governance frameworks that promote fairness, accountability, and transparency to ensure inclusive and responsible AI-driven growth.



4. Actionability: The taskforce is committed to driving real-world impact through partnerships and policy action focused on implementation.



Addressing the challenges hindering digital progress, Mahanyele-Dabengwa pointed out that outdated legislation is a significant constraint. She noted that the pace of technological evolution far exceeds existing legal frameworks, citing South Africa’s Electronic Communications Act as an example that does not accommodate emerging technologies like cloud computing.



She also highlighted delays in spectrum allocation and insufficient support for community networks as obstacles to digital inclusion. Financing digital infrastructure, especially in rural and under-resourced areas, remains a pressing concern. Mahanyele-Dabengwa called for a pro-investment environment characterized by policy certainty and reduced entry barriers for investors. She stressed the need to embed digital literacy in school curricula and reform post-school training systems, criticizing South Africas Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) as fragmented and misaligned with the digital economy's demands.



Despite these challenges, Mahanyele-Dabengwa noted that Africa is already setting global benchmarks in several digital domains, including mobile money innovation and interoperable payment systems. Countries like South Africa and Nigeria are advancing digital identity systems and mobile government services, improving access to public services.



Looking ahead, Mahanyele-Dabengwa outlined a roadmap to accelerate transformation, which includes broadening access through inclusive infrastructure, scaling digital public goods, and investing in Africas youth as digital creators. She concluded that with the right policies, partnerships, and investments, Africas full potential in the digital age can be unlocked.

1 week ago

Blitzboks Secure SVNS World Championship Title with Outstanding Performance

The Blitzboks delivered an impressive performance over the past weekend, capturing the SVNS World Championship title in Los Angeles. According to the team’s head coach Philip Snyman, the Springboks Sevens ended a season of ups and downs by winning the final against Spain 19-5 at Dignity Health Sports Park. Snyman noted that their defensive display throughout the final was reminiscent of the dominant Blitzboks side he once captained, proving the team should not be underestimated despite an inconsistent season.



On their way to the final, the Blitzboks defeated New Zealand 26-5 in the semifinals. They also overcame strong opponents in the group stages, including league winners Argentina, Olympic champions France, and Great Britain. According to captain Selvyn Davids, the team showed glimpses of their true potential during the season, but it was their consistency throughout this tournament that secured their success.



Davids emphasized that the team focused on staying present and giving their best effort regardless of the situation, knowing the shorter tournament format allowed no room for error. His try in the final was described as a standout moment, breaking through Spains defense with two quick sidesteps before sprinting for a score, which helped propel the team’s momentum.



Mfundo Ndhlovus try was also praised, having beaten several defenders to score from his half. Despite being temporarily reduced to six players after a yellow card, Ricardo Duarttee sealed the victory with a try in the dying moments, supported by Tristan Leyds and Ryan Oosthuizen.



Coach Snyman credited the teams ability to blend individual brilliance with collective discipline. He stated that while coaches can design strategies, certain on-field moments of brilliance come from the players themselves. According to Snyman, the weekend showcased the true potential of the Springbok Sevens and left him proud of his players achievements.