South African News
Wildlife economy offers new path for South Africa’s land reform beneficiaries
South Africa’s growing wildlife economy could help land reform beneficiaries achieve both economic development and conservation goals, but only with targeted support. Research in the Eastern Cape shows that most new black landholders are not yet benefiting meaningfully from wildlife-based enterprises, despite managing ecologically valuable land. A lack of basic infrastructure, capital and realistic business models is the main barrier. The study argues that mixed livestock–wildlife farming, supported by phased investment, partnerships and mentoring, is more achievable than high-end tourism or trophy hunting. Evidence-based policy could link land justice, rural livelihoods and biodiversity protection.
Read full story: Biz Community
Date published: January 8, 2026
Maize prices hit four-year lows, easing inflation but squeezing farmers
South African white and yellow maize futures have fallen to their lowest levels since 2021, driven by a stronger rand, global oversupply and another La Niña-influenced bumper harvest. Cheaper maize is expected to cool food inflation, lower feed costs and bring relief to consumers and livestock farmers, particularly cattle producers. However, the price slump is bad news for grain farmers, whose already thin margins are under pressure despite strong yields. While falling input costs such as diesel offer some relief, lower maize prices highlight the uneven impact of favourable weather and currency strength across the agricultural sector.
Read full story: Daily Maverick
Date published: January 8, 2026
African News
Tanzania steps up avocado drive as exports earn US$79m a year
Tanzania exports an average of 36,520 tonnes of avocados annually, generating about US$79 million, as it works to become one of Africa’s leading exporters. Expansion plans focus on widening cultivation areas, especially in the south, and bringing more smallholders into production through block-farming schemes. Programmes led by SAGCOT are supporting farmers with training, seedlings and improved practices, though post-harvest handling and cold-chain infrastructure remain key challenges. The government aims to lift production to 290,000 tonnes, tapping growing global demand in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
Read full story: Fresh Plaza
Date published: January 8, 2026
Global News
Native flowers and pollinators key to a greener floriculture future for Pakistan
Pakistan’s agriculture faces mounting environmental strain from water- and soil-intensive cash crops, prompting calls for a shift towards sustainable floriculture. The article argues that focusing on indigenous and locally adapted flower varieties could deliver higher profits while reducing ecological damage. Native plants are better suited to local climates, require fewer inputs and support value-added industries such as essential oils and medicinal products. Reviving pollinator populations is equally vital, as bees and other insects are in sharp decline due to pesticides and pollution. With targeted policy support and biodiversity-friendly practices, Pakistan could build a competitive, export-ready floriculture sector.
Read full story: The Express Tribune
Date published: January 8, 2026
Mexico reports sharp fall in screwworm cases as border closure drags on
Mexico’s agriculture ministry says active cases of New World screwworm have fallen by 57 per cent since mid-December, dropping from 1,145 to 492 by 7 January. The flesh-eating parasite has prompted the United States to keep its border largely closed to Mexican livestock imports since May, straining trade relations. Authorities say cases are now concentrated in only a few states. Progress is also being made on a sterile-fly factory in Chiapas, which is due to begin operations later this year and will release millions of sterile insects to suppress the pest population.
Read full story: The Western Producer
Date published: January 8, 2026
Greek farmers block highways over soaring costs and EU trade fears
Farmers across Greece have escalated protests by blocking major highways, junctions and toll stations for 48 hours, protesting rising production costs and a proposed EU trade deal with South American countries. Tractors shut key routes, including parts of the main Athens–Thessaloniki motorway, while police diverted traffic without intervening. Protesters say high input costs, delayed subsidies and recent livestock disease outbreaks have pushed them to the brink. Many also oppose the EU–Mercosur agreement, fearing cheaper imports will undercut Greek produce. The government has offered limited concessions but warned against prolonged disruption.
Read full story: ABC News
Date published: January 8, 2026
Irish farmers warn hormone breach in Brazilian beef threatens EU trade deal
Irish farmers have urged the Government to oppose the EU–Mercosur trade deal after a prohibited growth hormone was found in Brazilian beef imported into Ireland. Authorities confirmed that beef from cattle treated with oestradiol, which is banned in the EU food chain, had been distributed to businesses in the Republic. The Irish Farmers’ Association says the case exposes serious flaws in Brazil’s controls and undermines assurances given to the EU. It has called for full publication of EU audit findings before any vote on the deal, describing the issue as a “red line” for Ireland.
Read full story: Ireland Live
Date published: January 9, 2026
