South African News
Limpopo Unveils R1.9 Billion Budget to Drive Sustainable Agricultural Growth and Innovation
Limpopo's Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has unveiled a R1.9 billion budget aimed at bolstering the province's agricultural sector. The funds will be directed towards enhancing animal health services, supporting agro-processing initiatives, and promoting environmentally sustainable farming practices. A significant portion is allocated to the revitalisation of agricultural colleges and the implementation of climate change-adaptive strategies. The budget underscores the province's commitment to fostering inclusive growth, job creation, and food security through targeted investments in education, infrastructure, and climate-resilient agriculture.
Read full story: Food for Mzansi
Published: April 15, 2025
South Africa's Electronic Deeds Registration System Set to Modernise Property Transfers
South Africa's Department of Land Reform and Rural Development has introduced the Electronic Deeds Registration System (eDRS) to modernise property registration. The system aims to expedite property transfers, reduce costs, and enhance security by transitioning from manual to digital processes. While the agriculture sector welcomes this advancement, concerns persist regarding the challenges of integrating informal land tenure rights and ensuring a smooth transition. The eDRS is designed to improve efficiency and transparency in property transactions across the country.
Read full story: Farmers Weekly
Published: April 12, 2025
African News
Tanzania to Commence Maize Purchases in May to Support Farmers
The Tanzanian government has announced plans to begin purchasing maize from farmers in May 2025. This initiative aims to stabilise market prices and ensure food security. The government will collaborate with the National Food Reserve Agency to facilitate the buying process. Farmers are encouraged to deliver their produce to designated collection points. This move is part of broader efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and support local farmers.
Read full story: IPP Media
Published: April 15, 2025
Global News
Malaysian Durian Dispute Heats Up as Farmers Resist Crackdown on ‘Illegal’ Orchards
Tensions in Malaysia's Pahang state have erupted into open conflict as authorities begin clearing durian farms allegedly established illegally on government land. Over 1,000 Musang King durian trees have been felled in Raub, prompting protests from local farmers and the arrest of MP Chow Yu Hui, who opposed the tree-cutting. The dispute centres on land rights and the Royal Pahang Durian Group’s leasehold, which offers farmers contracts at below-market prices. Critics argue the enforcement violates a court order and threatens livelihoods in a billion-ringgit export industry dominated by China’s demand for the prized Musang King variety.
Read full story: South China Morning Post
Published: April 15, 2025
DEFRA Unveils £46 Million to Drive Innovation in UK Agriculture
DEFRA has announced a £46 million investment to accelerate the development of cutting-edge agricultural technologies aimed at boosting food production, farm profitability, and sustainability. The funding is split across three specialist funds targeting projects from concept through to on-farm trials. Key areas include robotic fruit pickers, animal health systems, emissions reduction, and precision-breeding techniques enabled by the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act 2023. From 28 April, the ADOPT competition will offer £20.6 million for farm-based trials, while two additional programmes launching in May will provide £25 million for climate-smart and genetically advanced crop solutions.
Source: FarmingUK
Published: April 15, 2025
First Case of Glyphosate-Resistant Grass Weed Confirmed in Ireland
Ireland has reported its first instance of a glyphosate-resistant grass weed, raising concerns among farmers. The resistant weed was identified in a field in County Kilkenny, where glyphosate, a widely used herbicide, failed to control the weed. This development mirrors similar challenges faced globally, where overreliance on glyphosate has led to resistance in various weed species. Experts advise farmers to adopt integrated weed management strategies, including crop rotation and the use of alternative herbicides, to mitigate the spread of resistance and ensure sustainable farming practices.
Read full story: Agriland
Published: April 15, 2025
Italian-Origin Strawberry Cultivar Achieves Success in Brazil
The Alpina 10 strawberry variety, developed through a collaboration between Italy's CREA research institute and Brazil's UDESC university, has demonstrated significant success in Brazil. This day-neutral cultivar, which flowers independently of light cycles, has shown high productivity and vibrant colour, making it particularly appealing to consumers. While trials in Italy did not yield favourable results, the variety has thrived in Brazil's climate, leading to its patent extension to Chile. This success highlights the potential of international collaboration in developing crops suited to diverse agricultural environments.
Read full story: FreshPlaza
Published: April 14, 2025
