Weekly USMEF Audio Report: Examining Opportunities for U.S. Red Meat in Africa

Jun 06, 2018

In recent years the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) has intensified its efforts to build demand for U.S. beef and pork in Africa. Monty Brown, USMEF representative in Africa, was recently in Ghana, where the presence of U.S. beef has expanded beyond the restaurant sector and is achieving success with Palace, one of the leading supermarket chains in Ghana's capital city of Accra.

Brown also has trade servicing activities scheduled this summer in Angola and in South Africa, where he's specifically looking to expand the customer base for U.S. pork. In late June, USMEF will take part in Africa's Big 7 - the continent's largest annual food and beverage trade show - which will be held in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Source: USMEF

Video: Winter Service Inspections for John Deere Equipment - The FarmCast Ep64

The FarmCast, host Troy Randall speaks with Doug Luedke, Vice President of Service, and Davin Peterson, Executive Vice President of Aftermarket at 21st Century Equipment, to discuss the importance of proactive service and how it helps farmers reduce downtime during their busiest seasons. The conversation focuses on the Winter Service Inspection Program, a comprehensive approach designed to keep equipment running at peak performance and limit costly in-season breakdowns through preventative maintenance and expert technician support.

Doug and Devin explain how 21st Century Equipment’s service teams have evolved to meet the needs of today’s connected machines. With more technology and data integrated into modern equipment, technicians now play a vital role in both mechanical repairs and precision ag support. Through advanced diagnostics, machine monitoring, and John Deere’s Expert Alerts, they can identify and address potential issues before they become major problems—saving customers valuable time, money, and frustration.

Throughout the discussion, the team shares real-world success stories demonstrating how proactive inspections and customer-focused service help maximize uptime and efficiency for every operation. Whether it’s a large tractor, combine, or small mower, the goal remains the same: to provide trusted, reliable support that helps farmers and landowners stay productive and confident in their equipment year-round.