South African News
South African Farmers Embrace AI to Lift Yields and Cut Through Red Tape
South African farmers are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence to improve productivity, manage resources and navigate complex regulations, according to a GreenCape report. AI tools are being used across farming operations, from business planning and funding applications to monitoring crops, livestock and environmental conditions. The technology is helping farmers respond to pressures such as climate change, water scarcity and stricter regulation, while boosting efficiency and sustainability. Applications range from precision agriculture and vertical farming to animal husbandry and food processing, with both small-scale and commercial farmers reporting tangible benefits from AI-driven insights and automation
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Read full story: iAfrica
Date published: January 22, 2026
Vertical Farming Refocuses on Viable Growth After Investment Bubble Bursts
The global vertical farming sector is emerging from a boom-and-bust cycle after a wave of bankruptcies exposed unsustainable business models built on high costs and hype. While early enthusiasm attracted billions in investment, expensive energy use and labour undermined profitability. It might not be suitable for South Africa which already has a favourable climate. Industry players are now shifting towards more realistic economics, prioritising efficiency, tighter crop selection and secure market access. Investment continues despite recent failures, with strong growth forecasts driven by food security concerns and climate risks. Rather than disappearing, vertical farming is maturing into a more disciplined industry focused on resilience, innovation and long-term returns.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date published: January 22, 2026
African News
Governor Jama Calls on Kenyan Farmers to Unite Through Cooperatives
Garissa Governor Nathif Jama has urged farmers to join cooperatives, saying collective action is key to improving productivity, incomes and access to markets. Speaking at a farmers’ field day in Garissa, Jama said cooperatives help small-scale farmers overcome challenges by providing training, farm inputs, credit and stronger bargaining power. He highlighted the establishment of a dedicated county cooperatives department to support the sector. Officials and farmer leaders said cooperative membership also promotes knowledge sharing and value addition. The event, held under the Kuza Jamii II Programme, brought together thousands of farmers from across the county.
Read full story: The Star
Date published: January 23, 2026
Global News
UK Farmers Use Tractors to Block Port of Felixstowe in Protest Over Imports and Tax
Farmers staged a tractor blockade at the Port of Felixstowe to protest against cheap, lower-standard food imports and inheritance tax changes. Organised by East Anglia Farmers Unite, the protest began at midnight and initially blocked two access gates before being scaled back for safety reasons due to heavy lorry traffic. Demonstrators said they allowed essential movements, including dock workers finishing shifts and a medical container leaving the port. Farmers argued they face unfair competition from cheaper imports produced to lower standards, while still being required to meet higher welfare and environmental rules. Police monitored the protest to ensure it remained peaceful.
Read full story: BBC News
Date published: January 23, 2026
USDA Unveils $100m Funding Drive as Screwworm Cases Rise Near US Border
The US Department of Agriculture has launched a $100m funding initiative to strengthen defences against the New World screwworm as cases increase in northern Mexico near the US border. Through its APHIS Grand Challenge, the USDA will support projects focused on sterile fly production, improved detection, treatment tools and rapid response systems. Authorities stress there are currently no screwworm detections in the United States, but vigilance has been stepped up, particularly in Texas. Officials warn the parasitic fly poses a serious threat to livestock, wildlife and people, and say early detection and innovation are critical to preventing its spread.
Read full story: Feedstuffs
Date published: January 22, 2026
Pakistan Seeks Australian Expertise to Boost Farm and Livestock Productivity
Pakistan has asked Australia for technical support to improve agricultural and livestock productivity, with a focus on disease control, biosecurity and technology adoption. Discussions between Pakistan’s food security minister Rana Tanveer Hussain and Australian High Commissioner Timothy Kane centred on establishing foot-and-mouth disease–free zones, improving yields and expanding market access. Agriculture employs over a third of Pakistan’s workforce, yet productivity remains low, particularly in livestock. Australia has offered cooperation through technical exchanges, training and digital regulatory systems. Both countries also discussed boosting horticulture exports, including mangoes, and expanding collaboration on dairy development and rangeland management.
Read full story: Daily Times
Date published: January 23, 2026
Japan and UNDP Launch Climate-Smart Farming Programme in Iraq
Japan and the UN Development Programme have launched a new initiative to help Iraqi farmers adopt low-emission, climate-resilient agricultural practices. The programme targets southern and Euphrates regions affected by water shortages, soil salinity and land degradation, which threaten food security and livelihoods. Following surveys and consultations with more than 250 farmers, tailored training was delivered to over 185 participants across four provinces. The programme focuses on improving irrigation efficiency, managing saline soils, promoting salt-tolerant crops and strengthening livestock management. The initiative aims to protect agricultural livelihoods while supporting long-term environmental sustainability and social stability.
Read full story: IraqiNews
Date published: January 22, 2026
