South African News
South African pig sector tightens defences as foot-and-mouth disease threat grows
South Africa’s pork industry is on high alert after foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) was confirmed at a commercial piggery in the Free State, with further suspected cases under investigation in KwaZulu-Natal. Although confirmed outbreaks remain limited, industry bodies warn that infection pressure across livestock systems is exceptionally high. Strict biosecurity, rapid reporting and close coordination with veterinary authorities are being urged. The lack of an approved FMD vaccine for pigs is a major concern, while producers report severe piglet losses and rising financial strain. Industry leaders stress that decisive action across the value chain is critical to limit further spread.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date published: January 10, 2026
Agricultural schools shine as record matric results boost interest in farming careers
South Africa’s class of 2025 achieved a record National Senior Certificate pass rate of 88%, with all school districts exceeding 80% for the first time. Agricultural schools performed particularly strongly, with institutions such as Augsburg Landbougimnasium and Hoër Landbouskool Oakdale both recording 100% pass rates. School leaders report growing interest in agricultural careers, including among female pupils, driven by the sector’s increasing diversity and opportunities beyond traditional farming. Many matriculants are pursuing agricultural studies or gaining practical experience locally and abroad, reflecting agriculture’s rising status as a respected and dynamic career choice.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date published: January 14, 2026
African News
Kenyan farmers borrow mainly for inputs as credit needs evolve
Survey results from the Central Bank of Kenya show that farmers continued to rely heavily on loans in late 2025, mainly to finance essential farm inputs. Purchasing fertiliser, seeds and pesticides was the leading reason for borrowing, although the share declined between September and November, suggesting some easing of pressure. Labour costs remained a major driver, reflecting the sector’s labour-intensive nature. There was a notable rise in borrowing to diversify agricultural activities and invest in machinery, indicating growing interest in risk management and mechanisation. Conversely, loans for land acquisition and farm expansion declined amid high costs and economic uncertainty.
Read full story: The Star
Date published: January 13, 2026
Global News
NFU Scotland warns farm support is flatlined in 2026–27 Budget
NFU Scotland has criticised the Scottish Government’s 2026–27 Budget, warning that it largely maintains farm support at current levels, amounting to a real-terms cut amid rising costs. While the union welcomes more than £660 million in overall funding, including £26 million restored to the Agricultural Modernisation Fund and continued direct payments, it says this falls short of what farmers and crofters need. Modest increases for environmental schemes are seen as insufficient for climate and nature goals. NFU Scotland is calling for stronger multi-year funding commitments, protected agricultural budgets and practical regulation to support long-term food production and rural livelihoods.
Read full story: NFU Scotland
Date published: January 13, 2026
Green Carbon and Shell team up to cut methane from Philippine rice fields
Green Carbon and Shell have launched a joint project to reduce methane emissions from rice farming in the Philippines, focusing on 50,000 hectares on Mindoro Island. Delivered under Japan’s Joint Crediting Mechanism, the initiative will introduce Alternate Wetting and Drying water management, a technique expected to cut methane emissions from rice paddies by around 30%. Agriculture is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions in the Philippines, with rice cultivation a key contributor. The project aims to generate carbon credits, support rural development and create a scalable, commercial pathway for lower-emission rice production.
Read full story: iGrow News
Date published: January 13, 2026
New Federated Farmers chief promises ‘unfair advantage’ for Kiwi farmers
Federated Farmers’ newly appointed chief executive, Mike Siermans, has set out an ambitious vision to strengthen New Zealand farming through sharper commercial focus and robust political advocacy. Drawing on a career spanning pharmaceuticals, agribusiness and consumer goods, Siermans says his goal is to give farmers an “unfair advantage” at home and internationally by removing unnecessary regulation and opening new opportunities. A former interim CEO, he emphasises innovation, strong messaging and sustainable revenue to bolster advocacy. Federated Farmers’ leadership believes his blend of commercial expertise and rural roots will help modernise the organisation and deliver greater value for members.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date published: January 14, 2026
Bangladesh sets sights on exporting 10,000 tonnes of potatoes from Bogura
Traders in Bogura have set a target to export around 10,000 tonnes of potatoes during the 2025–26 season, reflecting growing overseas demand for Bangladeshi vegetables. The district is a major production hub, supplying markets across the Middle East and Asia. Farmers are reporting good yields this season, with exports helping to strengthen local prices and improve confidence among growers. Exporters are also handling cauliflower, cabbage, chillies and tomatoes, with produce aggregated, graded and packed in Shibganj before shipment via Chattogram Port. Agricultural officials say advisory support is in place to ensure export-quality standards are met.
Read full story: Fresh Plaza
Date published: January 13, 2026
