South African News
Water Disinfection Emerges as Key to Combating Foot-and-Mouth Disease in South Africa
New research suggests that disinfecting livestock drinking water may play a critical role in preventing foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks in South Africa. While vaccination and movement control remain central to current biosecurity protocols, experts highlight water contamination as an overlooked transmission vector. Trials led by Phend Pharma SA and the Agricultural Research Council reveal that Peroxsil, a silver-stabilised hydrogen peroxide disinfectant, effectively neutralises FMD virus in water. This breakthrough introduces a proactive strategy that could reinforce South Africa’s embattled livestock sector and help prevent future outbreaks before they start.
Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date Published: June 27, 2025
Sasol Powers Greener Farming with Tailored Energy Solutions for South Africa's Agriculture Sector
Sasol is reinforcing its commitment to South African agriculture through sustainable energy innovations tailored to farmers’ needs. By offering high-performance fuels, advanced lubricants, and renewable diesel options, Sasol helps reduce operational costs, minimise equipment downtime, and support the shift to low-carbon farming. The company’s localised research ensures products perform under harsh conditions, while initiatives like the Msenge Emoyeni Wind Farm contribute clean energy directly to farms. With systems like Total Fluid Management and technical field support, Sasol offers more than just fuel — it delivers a comprehensive, sustainable energy partnership for a resilient agricultural future.
Read full story: Pro Agri
Date Published: June 26, 2025
African News
China-Africa Agricultural Cooperation Strengthens Food Security Across the Continent
Collaboration between China and African nations is playing a key role in improving food security and advancing rural development, experts said at the inaugural Africa-China Forum on Agri-Tech and Industrial Cooperation in Nairobi. Through joint research, policy exchange, and deployment of innovations such as smart irrigation and climate-resilient crops, China has supported Africa’s transition toward modern, industrial agriculture. Demonstration zones, vocational training, and digital technologies are among the initiatives helping smallholder farmers boost yields. Experts called for continued cooperation in AI, disease management, and sustainable farming practices to strengthen African food systems and enhance global competitiveness.
Read full story: Xinhua
Date Published: June 26, 2025
Global News
Lack of Young Farmers Poses Threat to Europe's Food Security and Sustainability
A new study by the EIT Food Consumer Observatory has highlighted Europe's pressing "young farmer problem", with only 11% of farmers under 40 and 35% over 65. Although young people see farming as a chance to contribute to community and sustainability, concerns over low pay, job security, and social perception deter many. The study calls for clearer communication about the sector’s technological advancements, diverse career paths, and financial viability. Recommendations include hands-on exposure, policy support, and better representation to attract new talent and ensure the resilience of Europe’s food systems in the face of climate and demographic challenges.
Read full story: Farmer’s Guide
Date Published: June 27, 2025
Antler Bio Secures €3.6M to Boost Dairy Yields Through Gene Expression Technology
Cambridge-based AgriTech startup Antler Bio has raised €3.6 million to scale its pioneering EpiHerd system, which uses gene expression data to help dairy farmers optimise milk yield and herd wellbeing. The funding round, led by The First Thirty Ventures and supported by Endgame Capital and Generation-RE, brings Antler Bio’s total funding to €7.2 million. Operating in the UK, Finland, Sweden, and Denmark, EpiHerd enables data-driven insights into how cows respond to environmental and health challenges. With milk yield increases of up to 22% reported, the technology offers farmers improved profitability, milk quality, and animal welfare.
Read full story: EU-Startups
Date Published: June 26, 2025
Canada’s GoodLeaf Farms Set to Become World’s First Fully Profitable Vertical Farming Operation
GoodLeaf Farms, a Canadian vertical farming company, is on course to become the first in the world with all its facilities operating profitably. CEO Andy O’Brien credits soaring consumer demand, driven by Canadian patriotism and supply chain shifts, as key to the company’s rapid growth. With operations in Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta, and partnerships with major retailers, GoodLeaf’s greens offer exceptional shelf life, taste, and sustainability. The Guelph facility is already profitable, and locations in Calgary and Montreal are expected to follow within six months. GoodLeaf aims to scale further, targeting a million-square-foot “Amazon-style” farm in Ontario.
Read full story: Manitoba Cooperator
Date Published: June 26, 2025
India’s Agritech Sector Races Ahead with AI, Blockchain and Smart Farming Tools
India’s agritech landscape is undergoing a seismic shift in 2025, driven by a 15% budget hike, AI innovation, and favourable economic reforms. At Agrospectrum India’s recent webinar, experts from Infosys, Sahyadri Farms, Cropin, and others highlighted real-world breakthroughs—from AI-powered weather alerts and traceability to blockchain-enhanced supply chains. While structural challenges persist—such as skills shortages and infrastructure gaps—the focus is shifting from pilot schemes to large-scale, farmer-centric solutions. The sector’s future hinges on building trust, interoperability, and practical tech that serves smallholders. If successful, India could lead a global model of tech-driven, climate-smart agriculture.
Read full story: Agrospectrum
Date Published: June 27, 2025
