South African News
Poultry industry challenges inconsistency in South Africa’s vaccination policies
The South African poultry industry has urged the government to explain differing approaches to vaccination programmes for bird flu and foot and mouth disease. While agriculture minister John Steenhuisen pledged mass vaccination campaigns for both sectors, poultry producers say strict and costly regulations have stalled progress on bird flu vaccinations, with only one pilot project underway. In contrast, cattle vaccinations have advanced under looser rules, with greater financial and veterinary support. The South African Poultry Association argues that inconsistent regulation, limited vaccine approvals and unequal funding risk undermining disease control efforts and is seeking direct discussions with the minister.
Read full story: South African Poultry Association Media Release
Date Published: February 10, 2026
Limpopo small-scale farmers face hunger after devastating floods
Small-scale farmers in Limpopo’s Mopani district say they are struggling to feed their families after floods destroyed crops and infrastructure last month. One cooperative estimates loss of up to R350,000, with many farmers lacking insurance for climate-related disasters. Maria Mathoko, who has farmed since 1984, said her family has lost vital income and now survives on her pension. Damaged roads and saturated fields have delayed recovery efforts, while equipment and irrigation systems have been ruined. Farmers and advocacy groups have criticised the government’s slow response, calling for compensation and climate-resilient infrastructure investment.
Read full story: All Africa
Date Published: February 12, 2026
African News
Desalinated boreholes transform water access for Kunene farmers
Farmers in Petrusfontein, near Fransfontein in the Kunene region, are benefiting from desalinated boreholes introduced through a four-year water softening project led by Namibia’s Environmental Investment Fund (EIF). Previously reliant on highly saline water, residents now have access to safe drinking water, easing household hardship and reducing farming costs. Salty borehole water is redirected to livestock, eliminating the need for salt supplements. Funded with N$40 million from the Ministry of Agriculture, the initiative has covered 17 sites nationwide since 2022. Community members have welcomed the project, though solar power limitations affect supply during the rainy season.
Read full story: The Namibian
Date Published: February 11, 2026
Global News
Italy showcases sustainable rice farming at OECD amid water scarcity concerns
Italy has presented its approach to sustainable rice cultivation at an OECD conference in Paris, highlighting rice as a key indicator of climate change and growing pressure on global water resources. Speakers stressed the vulnerability of agricultural systems to drought and warned of rising economic risks linked to water scarcity by 2035. As the producer of around half of the EU’s rice, Italy promoted its irrigation infrastructure and innovative techniques, including dry sowing, as models for resilience and reduced water use. The event emphasised that sustainable rice production is essential not only for agriculture but also for global food security and long-term economic stability.
Read full story: ANSA
Date Published: February 11, 2026
Regenerative sheep farmers secure premium wool prices in new supply deal
A new five-year agreement between Wools of New Zealand and keratin manufacturer Keraplast will see regenerative sheep farmers paid above-market prices for strong wool, offering improved returns through high-value industrial uses. The deal links wool production to applications in haircare, skincare, medical and nutraceutical products, moving away from traditional textile markets. Certified regenerative growers will receive around 40% more than market rates in 2025, with further annual increases planned. Industry leaders say the agreement supports low-carbon supply chains and sustainability goals, while helping secure demand for New Zealand strong wool amid declining sheep numbers and ongoing challenges in the sector.
Read full story: RNZ
Date Published: February 12, 2026
Saudi Arabia targets investment in Pakistan’s rice and agriculture sectors
Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in investing in corporate farming within Pakistan’s rice sector to secure a stable, long-term supply of the staple. Discussions between Pakistan’s Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and Saudi Assistant Investment Minister Ibrahim Al-Mubarak focused on structured agricultural partnerships, mechanisation, storage and export logistics. Both sides explored broader cooperation in food security, cotton, meat and fodder, alongside potential Saudi financing for export-linked projects. Talks also covered joint ventures in manufacturing, construction materials and pharmaceuticals, as well as vocational training initiatives to support overseas employment, signalling a wider investment-driven economic partnership.
Read full story: Dawn
Date Published: February 12, 2026
US farm groups launch campaign to defend North American trade deal
More than 40 US agricultural organisations have launched a campaign supporting the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA/USMCA), urging the Trump administration to recognise its economic importance to rural America. The coalition argues the deal has boosted exports, jobs and investment, with Canada and Mexico accounting for roughly one-third of US agricultural export value. The campaign includes lobbying, advertising and research aimed at policymakers ahead of a 2026 review that could see the agreement renewed, renegotiated or scrapped. While broadly supportive, some sectors are seeking targeted changes, warning that abandoning the deal could harm farmers, rural communities and supply chains.
Read full story: CBC News
Date Published: February 12, 2026
