LOCAL WOMAN TURN VISION INTO THRIVING CHICKEN FARM
In Hopefield, Sherley Freeman and her childhood friend Sharlene Bodenheim have transformed their vision into reality with Kauthar's Broiler Chickens, a successful free-range chicken farm dedicated to providing high-quality poultry. The idea, first introduced by Sherley four years ago, faced initial hurdles until the women secured funding from a government business development programme. This financial support enabled them to purchase their first batch of 1,300-day-old chicks, which they quickly expanded by an additional 1,300 just two weeks later. Through CASP funding...
GROWING TOGETHER: A LOVE FOR THE LAND
In the picturesque setting of St Helena Bay, Yusuf Patel and his son Yaseen are making significant strides in the agricultural community through their Shera Farming Project, which focuses primarily on sheep farming. Their farm supplies lambs wholesale to the Cartol Abattoir, bolstering local markets and contributing to the region's economy. As long-term beneficiaries of the Western Cape Department of Agriculture's Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme, the Patel family recently received a boom sprayer from Casidra’s project manager. This equipment, recommended by...
GRAIN FARMER ON NEW WHEELS
Casidra recently visited Dipko Boerdery's Winter Grain Project in Moorreesburg to deliver a new vehicle funded by the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDoA). This addition is expected to enhance production and streamline operations, marking another significant milestone in the success of this remarkable agricultural initiative. Founded in 2017 by farm owner Stephan Dippenaar, the project has grown into a thriving enterprise. The farm cultivates wheat and barley while also raising livestock, embodying a model of agricultural excellence. The new vehicle...
EMPOWERING LOCAL FARMERS FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FARMING
Meet Franko Swartz, a resilient Rooibos and livestock farmer from Wupperthal, Western Cape, who has transformed his agricultural endeavours through determination and support. Recently, Casidra, supplied Franko's farm with essential resources such as animal feed, medicine, and fencing. This intervention has significantly enhanced the productivity and safety of his Rooibos tea and livestock operations. I was facing numerous challenges, but the WCDoA and Casidra offered a lifeline. They have been instrumental in revitalising my farm," acknowledges Franko. Franko's success story exemplifies the impact...
CULTIVATING A SUSTAINABLE LEGACY: TIETIES ENTERPRISE LEADS THE WAY
Casidra recently visited Ursula and Jan Tieties, the visionary entrepreneurs behind Tieties Enterprise and Services in Vredendal North. With unwavering support from Casidra, they have successfully taken their farming operations to unprecedented heights. Acquiring a state-of-the-art tractor has significantly enhanced cultivation efficiency, while advanced electronic equipment has streamlined operations. Additionally, a cutting-edge irrigation system optimises water usage, ensuring environmentally conscious resource management. What truly sets Tieties Enterprise apart is its unwavering commitment to sustainability. Their eco-friendly approach encompasses: Innovative plastic waste recycling initiatives; Production of...
WESTERN CAPE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE COMMEMORATES WORLD FOOD DAY IN UNIONDALE
On Friday, October 11 2024, the Uniondale community gathered at their local sports field to mark the United Nation's (UN) World Food Day (WFD). Founded by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization on 16 October 1945, WFD has become one of the most celebrated events in the UN calendar. This year's theme is “Right to food for a better life and a better future.” The day, hosted in partnership with the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDOA), the Garden Route District Municipality,...
CELEBRATING OUR SHINING STARS AND 35 YEARS ANNIVERSARY!
Casidra celebrated a momentous occasion on the 29 November 2024, with its inaugural Employee Awards Ceremony, held at the stunning Ashante Estate in Paarl. The evening marked not only the recognition of outstanding talent and dedication within the company but also celebrated 35 years of Casidra's commitment to excellence. It was a night that honoured the hard work and passion of our exceptional team, whose contributions continue to drive the organisation's success.” During his opening address, Dr. Keith du Plessis, CEO...
FESTIVE MESSAGE FROM THE CEO’S DESK
As we approach the close of another year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable journey we've travelled together. This year has been one of dedication, collaboration and resilience and I am immensely proud of all we have accomplished at Casidra. To the Casidra team: Your unwavering commitment, passion and hard work have been the driving forces behind our achievements. Together, we have overcome challenges, seized opportunities and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those we...
ELSENBURG AGRICULTURAL INSTITUTE GRADUATES INSPIRE HOPE
On Saturday, 7 December 2024, 189 students graduated from the Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute in Stellenbosch with qualifications ranging from Certificates and Diplomas in Agriculture to Baccalaureus (bachelor’s degree). Fifty-two students successfully completed the learnership programme, 57 the diploma programme, 73 the B Agri programme and 7 received certificates in equine studies. Special Awards in the Learnership Programme went to: Best student in Animal Production: NQF level 4: Danelle Groenewald Best student in Plant Production: Viticulture NQF level 4: Valentino Januarie Best student in Plant...