South African News
KwaZulu-Natal Programme Aims to Empower 100 Smallholder Farmers
A new initiative in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa, seeks to empower 100 smallholder farmers by providing them with essential resources and support. The programme focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity, improving market access, and promoting sustainable farming practices. Through this initiative, farmers will receive training, access to modern farming equipment, and guidance on best practices to increase their yields and income. The programme aims to foster economic growth in rural areas and contribute to food security in the region.
Read full story: Farmers Weekly
Date Published: April 28, 2025
Unmarked Stray Livestock Pose Road Safety Risks in South Africa
Stray and unmarked livestock on South African roads are causing significant safety hazards, leading to numerous accidents and fatalities. The lack of proper identification and fencing allows animals to wander onto highways, creating dangerous situations for motorists. Authorities and animal welfare groups are calling for stricter enforcement of livestock management regulations, including mandatory identification and improved fencing, to prevent these incidents and protect public safety.
Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date Published: April 29, 2025
African News
Implementing a Scientific Approach is Essential to Enhance Education Across Africa
A recent opinion piece in New African Magazine argues that to combat learning poverty, African education systems must be grounded in scientific evidence about how children learn best. The authors highlight the African Union's designation of 2024 as the Year of Education as a positive step towards achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 4. They emphasise the importance of evidence-based teaching practices and cite initiatives like the Child Learning and Education Facility in Côte d'Ivoire and the Education Lab in Ghana as models for effective, collaborative interventions. The piece calls for increased investment in building evidence capabilities to achieve quality education for all.
Read full story: New African Magazine
Date Published: April 28, 2025
Global News
Japan's Rice Prices Surge for 16th Consecutive Week as Government Reserve Release Falls Short
Japan's rice prices have risen for 16 consecutive weeks, with a 5kg bag averaging ¥4,220 (approximately £23.50), more than double last year's price. The government released 210,000 tonnes from its emergency reserves to alleviate the crisis, but logistical challenges have delayed distribution, and prices remain high. Factors contributing to the surge include poor harvests, increased demand, and supply chain issues. Despite the government's efforts, the market continues to experience shortages, affecting both consumers and businesses.
Read full story: CTOL Digital Solutions
Date Published: April 29, 2025
UK Grain Prices Face Pressure Amid Global Market Shifts
UK grain prices are experiencing volatility influenced by global market trends. Factors such as fluctuating futures prices, changing export dynamics, and varying production forecasts are contributing to the uncertainty. While some regions report stable or slightly increasing prices, others face challenges due to oversupply or reduced demand. The interplay of these elements suggests that UK grain producers should remain agile and informed to navigate the evolving market landscape effectively.
Read full story: The Scottish Farmer
Date Published: April 29, 2025
EU Farm Lobby Warns of Renewed Tractor Protests Over CAP Budget Reform
European farm organisations have issued a stark warning that farmers may return to Brussels' streets in protest if the European Union proceeds with proposed cuts to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) budget. The European Coordination Via Campesina (ECVC) and FUGEA have expressed concerns that the proposed reforms fail to address the root causes of ongoing farmer protests, including inadequate incomes and unfair market conditions. The organisations are calling for policies that ensure fair remuneration for farmers and support for sustainable agricultural practices.
Read full story: Irish Independent
Date Published: April 29, 2025
Colombian Coffee Farmers Transitioning to Cacao Amid Rising Temperatures
As climate change drives temperatures higher in Colombia's Coffee Axis, many small-scale farmers are abandoning coffee cultivation in favour of cacao. Agronomist Orlando Quintero Gonzales notes that altitudes once deemed unsuitable for cacao are now becoming optimal due to shifting climatic conditions. Farmers like Claudia Giraldo have replaced coffee with cacao, citing easier management and better resilience. However, experts warn that this shift could lead to deforestation and increased chemical use, raising concerns about the environmental impact of expanding cacao plantations.
Read full story: Daily Coffee News
Date Published: April 28, 2025
