South African News
South African Farmers Turn Soil into Climate Capital with Africa’s First Verified Carbon Credit Scheme
South African farmers are transforming agriculture into a climate solution through AgriCarbon, Africa’s first soil carbon credit programme verified under Verra’s Verified Carbon Standard. The initiative, launched by sustainability consultancy Anthesis, enables farmers to earn income from regenerative practices that improve soil health and capture carbon. Since its 2021 debut, AgriCarbon has expanded to 119 farmers across eight provinces, generating over 39,000 tonnes of verified carbon credits, all purchased by Investec. The project marks a milestone for Africa’s participation in the global carbon economy, positioning the continent as a leader in climate-positive agriculture.
Source: Investec
Date published: October 13, 2025
Lower Maize Prices Bring Welcome Relief for South African Consumers and Farmers
South Africa’s bumper maize harvest has led to a sharp decline in maize prices, easing pressure on consumers and livestock farmers, according to the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz). White maize prices have fallen over 35% year-on-year to R3,595 per ton, while yellow maize is down more than 20% to R3,450 per ton. The 2024–25 crop, forecast at 16.12 million tonnes, is 26% higher than last season, ensuring ample domestic supply and export surplus. Experts say the fall will reduce maize meal costs, improving affordability for low-income households amid persistent food inflation.
Source: Independent Online (IOL)
Date published: October 13, 2025
African News
NNPCL Foundation and Benue State Boost Farmers’ Skills Through Climate-Smart and Digital Training
Farmers across Nigeria’s North-East and Benue State have benefited from new agricultural training initiatives aimed at boosting productivity and sustainability. The NNPCL Foundation trained growers from Gombe, Adamawa, and Taraba states in climate-smart farming techniques to improve soil management, resilience, and food security. In Benue, the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC), in partnership with the State Ministry of Agriculture, trained 23 agricultural officers on the Benue Smart Agriculture and Data Management System (BenADAMS) — a platform designed to centralise farm data, curb subsidy fraud, and ensure timely government support for genuine farmers.
Source: The Guardian /
Date published: October 13, 2025
Global News
Smart Sensors and 5G Revolutionise Durian Farming in Malaysia
Malaysian durian farmers are embracing smart agriculture as 5G connectivity and sensor technology transform how they monitor and manage crops. Tan Han Wei, founder of Sustainable Hrvest, is using locally developed sensors to track soil moisture, pH, and temperature, helping farmers reduce waste and improve yields. AI-powered pest detection and automated irrigation systems are further boosting efficiency. Tan says 5G will enable real-time data sharing, remote monitoring, and even virtual farm tours, paving the way for “digital agronomists.” While challenges remain—such as rural connectivity and costs—farmers are increasingly ready to adopt these innovations for smarter, more sustainable durian production.
Source: The Star
Date published: October 13, 2025
Japan Approves Heat-Treated US Chicken Imports to Maintain Safe Trade Amid Bird Flu
Japan has approved a new export protocol allowing heat-treated poultry imports from the United States, even from states affected by highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The agreement between the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) ensures trade continuity while maintaining food safety. Scientific evidence confirms that heat treatment eliminates the HPAI virus, enabling safe consumption. The USA Poultry & Egg Export Council (USAPEEC) welcomed the move, noting Japan’s confidence in US inspection systems. Industry experts expect the decision to stabilise poultry trade and boost demand for high-value US exports.
Source: aviNews Asia
Date published: October 13, 2025
Brazil’s $2.5 Billion Potash Project Aims to Reduce Fertiliser Imports and Strengthen Global Crop Supply
Brazil Potash Corp. plans to begin construction in early 2026 on its $2.5 billion Autazes Project in the Amazon basin, a major step toward reducing Brazil’s reliance on imported potash. The development will include two mine shafts, a processing plant, and a river port, with completion expected by 2030. As the world’s top soybean producer, Brazil currently imports nearly all its 13.8 million tonnes of annual potash demand. The project could diversify global fertiliser supplies—traditionally dominated by Canada, Russia, and Belarus—while boosting Brazil’s agricultural expansion and export capacity amid growing geopolitical and trade tensions.
Source: Farm Progress
Date published: October 13, 2025
PM Modi Launches ₹35,440-Crore Agricultural Reforms to Boost Productivity and Self-
On October 13, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched two major farm schemes worth ₹35,440 crore in New Delhi — the PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana to boost productivity, sustainability, and credit access in 100 districts, and the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses to expand cultivation and achieve self-reliance in pulses, benefiting two crore farmers. He also inaugurated agriculture, dairy, and fisheries projects worth ₹6,200 crore, highlighting India’s gains in exports, irrigation, and food production since 2014, while reaffirming farmers’ key role in building a self-reliant, developed India.
Source: Global Agriculture
Date published: October 13, 2025
