South African News
Rural Learners Benefit from Nutritious Plant-Based Meals in Genadendal Valley
Two schools in South Africa's Genadendal Valley, supported by the Green Monday SA programme, are enhancing student nutrition with plant-based meals prepared using produce from their gardens. The initiative, funded by the Western Cape education department and Humane Society International/Africa, promotes food security, sustainability, and healthy eating. The schools integrate garden-based learning, with students growing, consuming, and selling crops like spinach and sweet potatoes. Future plans include expanding the programme regionally and incentivising students to cultivate their own produce.
Read more / source: Food For Mzansi
Date Published: November 26, 2024
South African Poultry Industry Sees Progress Despite Ongoing Challenges
South Africa's poultry sector improved in 2024 after severe setbacks in 2023 caused by record feed costs, loadshedding, and a devastating bird flu outbreak. While feed prices and loadshedding pressures eased, allowing producers to restore operations and reduce consumer chicken prices, small producers struggled to recover. The bird flu remains a recurring challenge, prompting discussions about vaccination strategies. Industry stakeholders also seek VAT exemptions for chicken to boost affordability and demand. Despite progress, further measures are needed to stabilise the sector.
Source: AgriOrbit
Date Published: November 25, 2024
Africa News
Affordable Soil Test Scanners Boost Kenyan Farmers' Yields
AgroCares has introduced portable soil scanners in Kenya, enabling farmers to obtain soil fertility analyses in just 10 minutes for KSh 650, significantly less than traditional testing costs. These scanners help identify soil deficiencies and recommend suitable fertilisers, increasing yields by up to 25% for over 20,000 farmers. The programme, supported by agronomists and agrovets, stores farm data for long-term productivity planning. This innovation promotes better agricultural practices and sustainable food production.
Read more / source: FarmBiz Africa
Date Published: November 25, 2024
Global News
Global Collaboration Targets Livestock Methane Emissions
CH4 Global and UPL have partnered to distribute Methane Tamer, a feed supplement based on asparagopsis seaweed, across key livestock markets in India and South America, representing 40% of the world’s cattle. Methane Tamer reduces cattle methane emissions by up to 90%, addressing the significant climate impact of enteric methane. This collaboration integrates Methane Tamer with UPL's formulations, aiming to establish scalable, sustainable livestock practices that support net-zero goals. The initiative exemplifies agriculture’s role in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing environmental sustainability.
Read more / source: Farmer’s Weekly
Date Published: November 26, 2024
India Launches National Mission on Natural Farming
India's Prime Minister has approved the National Mission on Natural Farming, aimed at promoting sustainable, chemical-free agricultural practices. The initiative focuses on enhancing soil health, reducing input costs for farmers, and improving farm productivity. Key components include training farmers, increasing awareness, and implementing supportive policies to boost natural farming adoption nationwide. The mission aligns with government efforts to achieve agricultural sustainability and strengthen rural livelihoods.
Read more / source: Agro Spectrum India
Date Published: November 26, 2024
UK Beef and Sheep Production Forecasted to Decline by 2030
The UK is projected to see reduced beef and sheep production by 2030, driven by changing herd sizes and market conditions, according to the AHDB. Baseline forecasts suggest a 6.1% decrease in beef production, though improved profitability could limit this to a 2.2% decline. Sheep meat production could increase slightly in best-case scenarios but faces challenges in maintaining the breeding flock. The AHDB emphasises the need for proactive industry and government strategies to ensure resilience and sustainability.
Read more / source: AgriLand UK
Date Published: November 25, 2024
Prairies Deliver High-Quality Wheat, Despite Durum Challenges
Canadian farmers produced 34.3 million tonnes of wheat in 2024, with 63% from high-protein Canada Western Red Spring (CWRS) wheat. Nearly 94% of CWRS graded in the top two grades, showcasing exceptional quality, high protein (14.1%), and strong milling performance. Canada Western Amber Durum (CWAD), 15% of production, faced drought-related challenges, with lower grades but retained strong protein (15.3%) and good pasta-making qualities. Emerging varieties like AAC Starbuck are rising in popularity across Prairie farms.
Read more / source: Producer
Date Published: November 25, 2024
