South African News
Persistent Rainfall Threatens Soybean Harvest in South Africa
Persistent above-average rainfall in South Africa's Free State and North West provinces has severely disrupted planting and harvesting schedules for soybean farmers. Delayed sowing due to waterlogged fields has compressed planting windows, raising concerns about potential frost damage and reduced yields. Farmers have reported significant crop losses, with some areas receiving over 200mm of rain in November alone. The excessive moisture has also hindered wheat harvesting, as saturated soils prevent machinery access, leading to quality deterioration. Additionally, the heavy rains have caused extensive damage to already fragile road infrastructure, complicating logistics and further impacting the agricultural supply chain.
Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date Published: April 30, 20225
South Africa Urged to Revive Indigenous Crops Amidst Declining Agricultural Practices
A recent study highlights the decline of indigenous crops in South Africa, attributing this to the dominance of Western diets and agricultural practices. Traditional crops like blackjack and wild cucumber, rich in essential nutrients and requiring minimal water and agrochemicals, are being overshadowed by cash crops promoted by agricultural extension services. These services often focus on exotic crops, neglecting the promotion and cultivation of indigenous varieties. Experts advocate for a shift towards sustainable food systems that incorporate indigenous crops, aligning with South Africa's G20 presidency priorities and the African Union's Agenda 2063.
Read full story: AllAfrica
Date Published: April 29, 2025
African News
Tanzania's Chamber of Commerce Applauds President Samia's Agro Bank and Clean Energy Initiatives
Tanzania's Chamber of Commerce has commended President Samia Suluhu Hassan's establishment of the Agro Bank and her commitment to clean energy initiatives. The Agro Bank aims to enhance access to affordable financing for farmers, thereby boosting agricultural productivity and food security. Simultaneously, the government's focus on clean energy is evident through investments in renewable sources, aiming to reduce reliance on traditional biomass and improve environmental sustainability. These efforts align with Tanzania's broader goals of economic diversification and sustainable development.
Read full story: IPP Media
Date Published: April 28, 2025
Global News
Drone Technology Enhances Sugarcane Farming Efficiency in Pakistan
Experts in Pakistan are advocating for the adoption of drone technology in sugarcane farming to address challenges such as low productivity, small landholdings, and inefficient pesticide application. Dr. Asif Tanveer and Dr. Shahid Afghan highlight that drones can precisely apply fertilizers and pesticides, improving input efficiency, reducing costs, and mitigating health risks associated with traditional methods. Drone spraying requires significantly less water—approximately 10 litres per acre compared to 120 litres with manual methods—and can cover an acre in just 5–10 minutes, offering a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative.
Read full story: AgroPages
Date Published: April 29, 2025
Economic Uncertainty and High Taxes Threaten Argentina's Agricultural Sector
Argentina's agricultural sector faces significant challenges due to economic instability and high export taxes. The Confederaciones Rurales Argentinas (CRA) and Coninagro have called for the elimination of export taxes, which exceed 30%, to prevent a potential collapse of the sector. Leaders like Carlos Castagnini and Lucas Magnano argue that these taxes, combined with low international prices and high fiscal pressure, are suffocating producers. They warn that without immediate fiscal relief, the sector risks more bankruptcies and reduced production.
Read full story: Revista Chacra
Date Published: April 29, 2025
Innovative Wheel Attachments Enhance Harvesting Efficiency in Japan's Muddy Fields
In Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, farmer Kiyomitsu Suzuki has been using auxiliary wheels called "Raku-Wheel" on his light truck for over a decade to facilitate harvesting in muddy fields. These wheels, attached to the outer side of the rear tyres, distribute the vehicle's weight more evenly, preventing it from sinking into wet soil. This simple yet effective modification allows for smoother operations even after rainfall, ensuring timely harvesting of crops like daikon radishes. The Raku-Wheel is easily detachable, making it convenient for farmers to switch between fieldwork and road use.
Read full story: Agrinews Japan
Date Published: April 30, 2025
Fertiliser Prices Surge in 2025, Squeezing Farmers' Purchasing Power: Rabobank Report
Rabobank's recent report indicates a significant rise in global fertiliser prices in 2025, diminishing affordability and impacting farmers' purchasing power. The Fertiliser Affordability Index has shifted from a period of relative affordability to a negative stance, suggesting a challenging year ahead for the fertiliser market. Factors contributing to this trend include supply constraints, particularly in nitrogen and phosphate-based products, and geopolitical tensions affecting global trade dynamics. While some regions like South America and Europe maintain stable fertiliser needs, the increased costs are expected to lead to reduced demand and potential adjustments in agricultural practices.
Read full story: AgroSpectrum India
Date Published: April 29, 2025
