South African News
Billions Invested, Yet Polluted Water Endangers Agriculture
A significant investment has been pledged to enhance agricultural practices in South Africa; however, contaminated water remains a critical threat to the sector. Farmers are increasingly facing challenges due to the pollution of rivers and groundwater, which adversely affects crop yields and livestock health. The ongoing water crisis exacerbates existing agricultural vulnerabilities, prompting urgent calls for improved water management and pollution control measures. Stakeholders stress the need for coordinated efforts to ensure sustainable farming practices amidst these environmental challenges.
Read full story: Food for Mzansi
Date Published: March 22, 2023
Farmers Warned of Potential Second Wave of African Armyworm Infestation
Farmers in South Africa are being urged to remain vigilant for a possible resurgence of African armyworm infestations, following recent outbreaks that have already caused significant crop damage. Agricultural experts are advising producers to monitor their fields closely and implement effective pest management strategies. The African armyworm poses a serious threat to maize and other crops, and its rapid life cycle complicates control efforts. Early detection and intervention are crucial to mitigate losses and protect harvests as the season progresses.
Read full story: Farmers Weekly
Date Published: March 25, 2023
African News
Empowering Coffee Farmers: A Journey Towards Resilience and Growth
The article highlights the transformative efforts aimed at empowering coffee farmers in Tanzania, focusing on enhancing their resilience and fostering sustainable growth. Through various initiatives, including training programmes and access to better resources, farmers are learning to improve their crop yields and navigate market challenges. The emphasis is placed on building a cooperative spirit among farmers, which not only boosts productivity but also strengthens their bargaining power. As a result, these efforts are paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous coffee industry in the region.
Read full story: IPP Media
Date Published: March 25, 2025
Global News
Bayer Launches Maize Seed Facility in Zambia to Enhance Food Security
German multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company, Bayer, has inaugurated a new maize seed facility in Zambia, aiming to bolster food security for approximately 30 million people in the region. This state-of-the-art facility will enable the production of high-quality maize seeds, addressing the increasing demand for food and supporting local farmers in improving their yields. The initiative aligns with Bayer's commitment to sustainable agriculture and innovation, providing farmers with the resources needed to adapt to changing climatic conditions. By enhancing maize production, this facility is set to play a crucial role in alleviating hunger and promoting economic growth in Zambia.
Read full story: Agro Spectrum
Date Published: March 24, 2025
Xuyi County’s Crayfish Industry Fuels Rural Vitalization
As spring arrives in Xuyi County, Jiangsu province, the local crayfish industry is poised for a fruitful harvest. With nearly 670,000 hectares dedicated to crayfish aquaculture, this sector has engaged around 210,000 individuals, becoming a key driver of rural revitalization. The industry focuses on five main areas: seedlings, base building, processing, standardisation, and branding. This comprehensive approach has resulted in an impressive annual output exceeding 30 billion yuan (approximately $4.15 billion). Xuyi’s crayfish have earned prestigious recognitions, including being named among China’s top 100 agricultural products.
Read full story: China Daily
Date Published: March 25, 2025
Pig Slurry Can Cut Crop Fertiliser Requirements by Up to 70%
Recent research indicates that pig slurry can significantly reduce the need for synthetic fertilisers in crop production, potentially by as much as 70%. This finding highlights the benefits of using organic waste as a nutrient source for crops, promoting both sustainability and cost-efficiency in farming practices. The study suggests that integrating pig slurry into nutrient management plans can enhance soil health while minimising environmental impacts. Farmers are encouraged to adopt this practice to optimise their fertiliser use and improve overall crop yield.
Read full story: Agriland
Date Published: March 22, 2025
Florida's Citrus Decline: A Potential Opening for California Growers
The ongoing decline of Florida's citrus industry, primarily due to disease and adverse weather conditions, presents a unique opportunity for California citrus growers. As Florida struggles with production issues, California is poised to fill the gap in the citrus market, benefiting from a more stable growing environment. Experts suggest that this shift could lead to increased investment and innovation in California’s citrus sector, enhancing its competitive edge. However, challenges remain, and California growers must adapt to changing market demands to fully capitalise on this opportunity.
Read full story: Farm Progress
Date Published: March 25, 2025
