South African News
Ramaphosa’s Sona signals renewed focus on logistics, trade and disease control for agriculture
Wandile Sihlobo argues that Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address delivered a constructive message for South Africa’s agricultural sector, outlining priorities needed to sustain growth and food security. Emphasis on improving logistics, water infrastructure and export capacity was welcomed, alongside recognition of trade opportunities and the need to expand market access, including within BRICS countries. The address also acknowledged urgent challenges such as foot-and-mouth disease, with plans for a national vaccination campaign and stronger collaboration between government and industry. Continued infrastructure investment, effective implementation and support from institutions such as Transnet and the Department of Agriculture remain critical to maintaining momentum.
Read full story: Daily Maverick
Date published: February 15, 2026
Seed access barriers threaten growth prospects for smallholder farmers
Access to affordable, high-quality seeds remains a critical challenge for smallholder farmers in South Africa, despite the availability of certified varieties through formal systems. While commercial seed markets deliver improved yields, high costs and market concentration limit accessibility. Research from FANRPAN calls for updated legislation to recognise informal seed systems, promote agro-biodiversity and strengthen rural distribution networks. The Competition Commission has also flagged seeds and inputs as major cost drivers. Experts argue that reforms, public-private partnerships and expanded extension services are essential to build a more inclusive and resilient seed system.
Read full story: Food for Mzansi
Date published: February 16, 2026
African News
Mozambique urges SMEs to adopt technical standards to boost competitiveness
Small and medium-sized enterprises in Mozambique are being encouraged to integrate technical standards into production to improve product quality, safety and export competitiveness. Instituto Nacional de Normalização e Qualidade (INNOQ) says awareness programmes and technical guidance are helping businesses understand certification requirements, particularly in agricultural value chains such as cashew and macadamia production. The initiative, supported by the British Standards Institution, aims to strengthen quality infrastructure, reduce trade barriers and expand access to international markets. Officials emphasise that adopting standards is a strategic step for SME growth, innovation and long-term economic development.
Read full story: Club of Mozambique
Date published: February 16, 2026
Global News
Rising input costs erode profits despite Brazil’s bumper soybean harvest
Brazil is set for a record soybean harvest in the 2025/26 season, with output forecast above 176 million tonnes, but higher production costs are squeezing farmers’ margins. In Mato Grosso, costs are expected to rise by nearly 8%, driven mainly by sharp increases in fertiliser and agrochemical prices. While yields have improved, according to IMEA and Conab, stable soybean prices limit profitability. Aprosoja expects margins to fall this season, though easing costs and lower interest rates could offer relief in 2026/27.
Read full story: Ukr Agro Consult
Date published: February 16, 2026
China transforms Taklamakan Desert into aquaculture hubs to boost food production
Large-scale aquaculture projects in China are transforming parts of the Taklamakan Desert into productive fish farms, using engineered ponds, groundwater resources and renewable energy systems. Designed to support food security and create economic opportunities in remote regions, the projects enable species such as tilapia and catfish to thrive in harsh desert conditions. Local communities are benefiting from new employment and income streams, while vegetation and wildlife have begun to appear around farming areas. However, concerns remain over long-term sustainability, particularly groundwater use and the environmental impact of maintaining artificial ecosystems in one of the world’s driest environments.
Read full story: Secom
Date published: February 15, 2026
Thailand trials elephant contraceptive vaccine to reduce human–wildlife conflict
Authorities in Thailand have begun using a birth control vaccine on wild elephants in an effort to reduce rising conflicts between animals and rural communities as farmland expands into forest habitats. The programme follows increasing incidents involving crop damage and fatal encounters, with officials saying population growth in certain regions has intensified tensions. Early trials on domesticated elephants showed promising results, and vaccinated animals will be monitored over several years. While the initiative aims to protect both people and wildlife, critics warn it may affect conservation efforts. Additional measures include habitat management, fencing and ranger patrols to prevent elephants entering populated areas.
Read full story: Times Free Press
Date published: February 16, 2026
Artificial intelligence reshaping agriculture through data, automation and risk management
Artificial intelligence is increasingly transforming agriculture, from satellite monitoring and climate forecasting to autonomous machinery and decision-support tools. Research led by Sarah Hartman at CSIRO demonstrates how AI can track crop resilience, improve forecasting and help farmers manage risk, particularly in disrupted environments such as post-dam collapse regions in Ukraine. Experts stress that effective use depends on high-quality data and responsible design tailored to farming communities. Emerging technologies, including AI-driven drones, robotics and generative tools, offer productivity gains but also raise concerns around reliability and trust, highlighting the need for careful implementation as agriculture adapts to climate and market pressures.
Read full story: Shepparton News
Date published: February 16, 2026
