South African News
South Africa Celebrates Graduation of Ten New Animal Technologists Amidst Critical Shortage
In a significant move to address South Africa's biosecurity concerns, ten new laboratory animal technologists have graduated, marking a crucial step in tackling the nation's shortage of animal health experts. Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, emphasised the critical role these professionals play in safeguarding animal health and strengthening biosecurity. The South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) hailed this milestone as a significant advancement in the field. However, with only 23 laboratory animal technologists currently in the country, there remains an urgent need to train more professionals in this scarce and vital skill.
Read more / source: Food For Mzansi
Date Published: December 6, 2024
CCH Launches State-of-the-Art Cold Storage Facility in Eastern Cape, Boosting Agricultural Exports
Commercial Cold Holdings (CCH) has unveiled its new Greenbushes cold storage facility in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, marking a significant advancement in the region's agricultural and logistics sectors. The 8,000-pallet capacity facility is designed to enhance export capabilities for local citrus and other fruits, while also supporting frozen imports. Strategically located near the port, it addresses the longstanding cold storage shortage in the area, reducing costs for local producers. The facility is expected to create approximately 100 jobs and incorporates renewable energy solutions, aligning with CCH's sustainability goals. This investment is part of CCH's broader strategy to expand cold chain infrastructure across Africa, aiming to increase food security and market access.
Read more / source: Farmer's Weekly
Date Published: December 6, 2024
African News
Kenyan Farmer Boosts Earnings by 23% with Improved Onion Trimming Technique
Edwin Mwangangi, a young onion farmer in Katani, Syokimau, has increased his earnings by 23% by adopting a new onion trimming technique. By cutting onion stems to 2-3 cm from the bulb, rather than the traditional 8 cm, Mwangangi has reduced drying time to less than two weeks and now sells his onions for Sh43 per kilo, compared to the Sh35 offered to other local farmers. This method improves onion quality, reduces rot, and extends storage life to 5-8 months. The technique has made Mwangangi's produce more attractive to brokers and highlighted the importance of proper onion curing in the East African market.
Read more / source: FarmBiz Africa
Date Published: December 5, 2024
Global News
CGIAR Unveils 2030 Global Strategy for Resilient Drylands at COP16
CGIAR has launched its 2030 Global Strategy for Resilient Drylands (GSRD) at COP16 in Riyadh, aiming to revolutionise farming in the world's driest regions. Developed collaboratively by CGIAR centres, led by ICARDA and ICRISAT, the strategy focuses on improving the lives of 2.7 billion people in drylands, particularly in Asia and Africa. The GSRD leverages innovations from CGIAR's 15 global research centres, offering solutions such as solar-powered agrivoltaics, innovative agroforestry, and improved breeding technology for climate-smart crops. This science-driven roadmap builds on 50 years of dryland research to enhance food security, conserve biodiversity, and build resilient livelihoods in these crucial ecosystems that support 44% of global agriculture.
Read more / source: AgroSpectrum India
Date Published: December 5, 2024
EU to Ban Fungicide Fenpyrazamine from January 2025
The European Commission has decided to withdraw the marketing authorisation for the fungicide fenpyrazamine earlier than initially planned. From 15 January 2025, its use will be prohibited in the European Union. Fenpyrazamine, primarily used to treat cherry, strawberry, and peach trees, was previously authorised until 31 May 2026. However, the applicant company's decision not to support the renewal application led to this earlier ban. The Commission deemed the extension no longer justified and set an earlier expiry date to allow member states sufficient time to withdraw authorisations for plant protection products containing fenpyrazamine.
Read more / source: AgroPages
Date Published: December 6, 2024
Trump's Potential Trade Policies Could Reshape Global Agribusiness
A second Trump presidency could significantly impact US trade policy and global agribusiness. Key points include the likely death of EV mandates, benefiting agricultural commodities used in transportation fuels, and a renewed push for market-opening free trade agreements. Trump may seek a Phase Two agreement with China or increase tariffs if negotiations fail. An across-the-board 10% tariff is deemed unlikely due to potential impacts on healthcare costs and legal challenges. The renegotiation of USMCA by 2026 could affect rules for chemicals and agricultural products. Trump's emphasis on US energy production may advantage American chemical manufacturers globally.
Read more / source: AgriBusiness Global
Date Published: December 5, 2024
UK Secures 5 Million Bird Flu Vaccine Doses for Potential Pandemic
The UK government has procured over five million doses of human H5 influenza vaccine as part of its pandemic preparedness plan. Manufactured by CSL Seqirus UK Ltd, the vaccine is based on the current H5 avian influenza virus strain. While there's no evidence of human-to-human transmission, the vaccine would be deployed if the H5N1 virus begins spreading among humans. Dr Meera Chand of the UK Health Security Agency emphasised the importance of early vaccine access in saving lives. The Animal and Plant Health Agency continues to monitor and test wild and farmed birds for avian influenza, contributing to the UK's readiness against emerging pathogen threats.
Read more / source: FarmingUK
Date Published: December 6, 2024
