South African News
Privatisation Could Boost South Africa’s Port Productivity, Study Suggests
A study by South African logistics firm Link Supply Chain Management argues that privatising the country’s ports could significantly improve efficiency and competitiveness. Drawing comparisons with Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Morocco, Togo, and Mozambique, the research highlights how private operators and modern infrastructure upgrades have driven up productivity, shortened turnaround times, and attracted billions in investment. For example, Maputo and Luanda ports saw rapid gains after private sector involvement, while South Africa’s state-run ports remain hampered by delays, outdated equipment, and underinvestment. Experts believe urgent reforms could raise Cape Town’s crane moves per hour, but progress remains slow.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date Published: October 2, 2025
South Africa’s Agricultural Future Hinges on Innovation and Inclusion
South Africa’s agricultural sector faces a pivotal moment, balancing its role in food security and exports against mounting climate risks, soil degradation, and structural inequalities. A new analysis using the International Futures (IFs) model shows that without bold reforms, crop yields may stagnate and food import dependency could rise. However, increased investment in agricultural R&D - at least 1.5% of agricultural GDP - alongside climate-smart technologies and inclusive land reform, could transform farming into a driver of economic growth and resilience. The study stresses that equity is as vital as innovation to secure a sustainable, prosperous agricultural future.
Read full story: IOL
Date Published: October 1, 2025
African News
East Africa Launches SoLAR II Project to Drive Climate-Resilient Farming
The International Water Management Institute (IWMI), with support from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), has launched Phase II of the Solar Energy for Agricultural Resilience (SoLAR) project in Kenya and Ethiopia. Building on successes in South Asia, the initiative promotes solar-powered technologies not only for irrigation but also for cold storage, drying, milling, and agro-processing. By addressing gaps in financing, policy, and farmer awareness, SoLAR II seeks to improve food security, cut post-harvest losses, and create equitable opportunities for women, youth, and smallholders. The project emphasises inclusive, climate-smart farming through partnerships, training, and innovative business models.
Read full story: Capital News Kenya
Date Published: October 1, 2025
Global News
Dry Weather Slows Brazil’s Soybean Planting as Farmers Await October Rains
Brazil’s 2025–26 soybean planting has hit a slowdown as dry conditions in Mato Grosso forced farmers to pause after sowing around 40% of the crop. While early rains in September encouraged rapid planting, a lack of follow-up moisture left growers cautious about continuing. With October being the key planting month—when about 70% of soybeans are usually sown—farmers stress that timely rains are critical to avoid delays and yield risks. Brazil’s farm agency CONAB projects soybean acreage at 121.2 million, up 3.7% from last year, with production expected to reach 177.6 million tons if weather conditions improve.
Read full story: Farm Progress
Date Published: October 1, 2025
Agri-Drones Transform Indian Farming with Efficiency and Cost Savings
Indian farmers are increasingly turning to drones to combat labour shortages, high input costs, and inefficient spraying methods. Marut Drones’ DGCA-certified AG 365 model can spray up to 30 acres daily, apply fertiliser, and sow seeds with GPS-guided precision, reducing pesticide and water use by up to 30% while minimising crop damage and chemical exposure. Since 2019, adoption has spread across states like Maharashtra and Telangana, with some drone pilots building profitable businesses. With government backing and rising interest from Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, Marut Drones aims to expand into training, service, and after-sales support.
Read full story: FreshPlaza
Date Published: October 1, 2025
ASEAN Agriculture Ministers Meet in Manila to Address Climate and Food Security
Southeast Asia’s agriculture and forestry ministers, joined by counterparts from China, Japan, and South Korea, are convening in Manila for the 47th ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry (AMAF) meeting, hosted by the Philippines from 29 September to 3 October. The summit focuses on food security, climate change, and trade amid global supply chain disruptions and rising protectionism. Leaders aim to strengthen regional food resilience, boost intra-ASEAN trade, and expand technology transfer. Climate adaptation, sustainable resource management, and private sector investment are high on the agenda, with decisions expected to shape agricultural policies for the next decade.
Read full story: The Philippine Business and News
Date Published: October 2, 2025
Cooperative Farming Touted as Pakistan’s Path to Food Security and Growth
Pakistan’s Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, has emphasised cooperative farming as a transformative model to strengthen agriculture, reduce reliance on imports, and improve rural livelihoods. Speaking at a high-level meeting with agricultural stakeholders, Hussain said the approach would empower small and medium-scale farmers by giving them access to modern machinery, climate-smart techniques, interest-free financing, and direct market linkages. He highlighted that cooperative farming could cut costs, eliminate middlemen, and ensure fair profits, while boosting yields of wheat, pulses, and edible oils. The government has pledged technical and financial support to advance the initiative.
Read full story: Profit
Date Published: October 2, 2025
