South African News
Public-Private Partnership Boosts Limpopo Citrus Farming
In 2020, the Majeje Tribal Authority partnered with the Komati Fruit Group and agricultural economist Boela Bruwer to establish Majeje Citrus (Pty) Ltd near Letsitele, Limpopo. This collaboration aims to integrate the local community into South Africa's burgeoning citrus industry. The Motsepe Foundation facilitated approximately R70 million in funding through soft loans, with Majeje Citrus receiving about R30 million. The project's success is attributed to the strong involvement of the traditional authority, reputable business partnerships, and financial viability. Piet Smit, CEO of Komati Fruit Group, highlighted Chief Mlungisi Ntsanwisi's strategic vision for managing communal land, designating portions for commercial citrus farming with Komati providing developmental and managerial services. This initiative exemplifies efforts to transform agriculture in Limpopo, benefiting the local community and promoting inclusivity.
Read full story: Farmer's Weekly
Date Published: January 28, 2025
South African Poultry Sector Embarks on Export-Focused Growth Strategy
The South African poultry industry, in collaboration with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), is implementing an export-driven growth strategy as outlined in the Poultry Master Plan. This initiative aims to enhance production capacity, improve competitiveness, and open new international markets for locally produced poultry products. Key interventions include increasing compliance with international health and safety standards, fostering partnerships to boost export capabilities, and targeting markets within the Southern African Development Community and the African Continental Free Trade Area. The strategy seeks to bolster the industry's contribution to the national economy and promote sustainable growth.
Read full story: Engineering News
Date Published: January 27, 2025
African News
Backlash in Kenya Over Livestock Vaccination Programme
The Kenyan government’s plan to vaccinate millions of livestock against diseases like foot-and-mouth has faced intense opposition, driven by misinformation and distrust. While the programme is free and aims to boost livestock exports by raising vaccination rates from 10% to 85%, critics claim it is linked to foreign agendas, including unfounded rumours about Bill Gates funding methane-reducing vaccines. Opposition leaders and farmers have voiced fears about genetic impacts and secrecy in the campaign. Experts refute these claims, urging better public awareness. Despite backlash, officials stress the urgency of vaccinations to curb disease outbreaks, ensuring the programme’s voluntary nature.
Read full story: BBC News
Date Published: January 28, 2025
Global News
Gram Unnati and National Sustainable Spice Program Collaborate to Train Farmers in Sustainable Coriander Cultivation
Gram Unnati, in partnership with the National Sustainable Spice Program, has initiated a training programme aimed at educating farmers on sustainable coriander farming practices. The initiative focuses on enhancing yield quality, promoting environmentally friendly agricultural methods, and ensuring economic benefits for farmers. The training encompasses best practices in cultivation, pest management, and post-harvest handling to meet both domestic and international market standards. This collaboration seeks to empower farmers with knowledge and resources to adopt sustainable practices, thereby improving their livelihoods and contributing to the spice industry's overall sustainability.
Read full story: Agro Spectrum India
Date Published: January 28, 2025
Inheritance Tax Changes to Affect Majority of UK Farms Over 50 Hectares
New analysis by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) indicates that over 75% of UK farms exceeding 50 hectares (124 acres) will be impacted by forthcoming inheritance tax (IHT) reforms. Effective from April 2026, the government plans to limit the 100% relief from IHT to the first £1 million of combined agricultural and business property. This change is expected to affect approximately 42,204 out of 54,938 farms in England and Scotland, with cereal and general cropping enterprises being the most affected due to their scale and asset value. Industry leaders are advising farmers to seek expert tax and business planning guidance to navigate these impending changes.
Read full story: FarmingUK
Date Published: January 28, 2025
Human Case of Avian Influenza Detected in England
A human case of avian influenza (H5N1) has been confirmed in central England. The individual contracted the virus through prolonged contact with infected birds on a farm. Despite the diagnosis, health authorities assess the risk to the general public as very low. The UK Health Security Agency is conducting contact tracing and offering antiviral treatments as preventive measures. Human infections of bird flu are rare in the UK, though recent outbreaks have been reported among poultry, leading to culling operations. Robust systems are in place to detect and manage such cases.
Read full story: Agriland
Date Published: January 28, 2025
U.S. Policy Changes Pose Threat to Canada's Canola Oil Industry
Canada's canola oil sector faces significant challenges due to recent U.S. policy adjustments. The U.S. government has revised its biofuel tax credit scheme, potentially excluding canola oil from qualifying for credits. This exclusion could diminish the competitiveness of Canadian canola oil in the U.S. market, a primary export destination. Industry experts express concern that these policy shifts may disrupt established trade flows and adversely affect Canadian producers. The situation underscores the need for strategic responses to maintain market access and support the industry's economic stability.
Read full story: Canadian Cattlemen
Date Published: January 27, 2025
