South African News
Women in South Africa Harness Indigenous Knowledge to Combat Drought
In South Africa, women farmers are increasingly relying on indigenous knowledge to adapt to the challenges posed by drought. This traditional wisdom, passed down through generations, includes practices such as crop rotation, soil management, and water conservation techniques. By integrating these methods with modern agricultural practices, women are not only enhancing food security but also empowering their communities. This approach highlights the critical role of women in sustainable farming and resilience against climate change impacts.
Read more / source: Down to Earth
Date Published: January 7, 2025
South African Sugar Industry Optimistic for 2025 Amidst Challenges
The South African sugar industry is looking forward to 2025 with optimism, driven by the second phase of its master plan aimed at stabilising the sector. Key priorities include establishing a sustainable pricing framework, strategic trade protection, and support for small-scale growers. The industry faces challenges such as high input costs and the impact of the Health Promotion Levy (sugar tax), which has significantly reduced local demand. However, efforts to diversify through sugar cane by-products are underway, potentially creating new revenue streams and enhancing resilience against market volatility.
Read more / source: Farmers Weekly
Date Published: January 3, 2025
African News
Unrest in Mozambique Poses Risks to Agriculture and Regional Trade
Ongoing unrest in Mozambique is severely impacting the agricultural sector and threatening regional trade dynamics. Armed conflicts and violence have disrupted farming activities, leading to crop failures and food insecurity. Farmers are unable to access markets, exacerbating economic challenges in the region. The instability also raises concerns for neighbouring countries that rely on Mozambican agricultural products. Efforts to restore peace and security are crucial to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and maintain trade relations within Southern Africa.
Read more / source: Southern African Times
Date Published: January 5, 2025
Global News
Agriculture Groups Respond to Trudeau's Resignation
Following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's resignation, various agriculture groups in Canada have expressed their reactions, highlighting concerns over potential impacts on agricultural policies and funding. The resignation has raised questions about the future direction of government support for farmers and the agricultural sector as a whole. Industry leaders are calling for stability and continuity in policies that affect food production and rural communities. The uncertainty surrounding leadership transitions may influence upcoming agricultural initiatives and negotiations.
Read more / source: Canadian Cattlemen
Date Published: January 6, 2025
First Human Death from Bird Flu Confirmed in Louisiana
Louisiana has reported the first human death from H5N1 bird flu in the United States. The patient, over 65 years old with underlying health conditions, contracted the virus after exposure to a backyard flock and wild birds. Health officials confirmed that there are no indications of person-to-person transmission and emphasized that the risk to the general public remains low. This case highlights ongoing concerns about avian influenza, with over 950 cases reported globally, half of which have resulted in fatalities.
Read more / source: The Scottish Farmer
Date Published: January 7, 2025
New BVD Measures Introduced to Safeguard Northern Irish Livestock
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland has announced new measures to combat Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD), effective from 1 February 2025. These include herd-level movement restrictions for herds with positive or inconclusive BVD test results, as well as for those with unknown animal status. Additional testing requirements will apply to cattle born before 1 March 2016. The initiative aims to enhance the eradication efforts, improve animal health, and support the agricultural sector by reducing the spread of this contagious disease.
Read more / source: The Scottish Farmer
Date Published: January 7, 2025
Adelaide Hills Winery Transforms Smoke-Tainted Grapes into Unique Brandy
Simon Tolley Wines in the Adelaide Hills has successfully created a brandy using smoke-tainted grapes, a response to the challenges posed by the 2019 bushfires. The new product, named Smoked Brandy, is priced at $150 and showcases innovative techniques for utilising grapes deemed unsuitable for wine production. This initiative not only addresses the issue of waste but also contributes to ongoing research at the University of Adelaide on the effects of climate change on brandy production. The winery aims to offer this unique spirit as a sustainable option for affected growers.
Read more / source: ABC News
Date Published: January 8, 2025
