South African News
South Africa launches nationwide vaccination drive as foot-and-mouth disease crisis escalates
South Africa has declared its foot-and-mouth disease outbreak a national disaster, prompting a large-scale vaccination campaign aimed at containing what President Cyril Ramaphosa described as the country’s worst outbreak to date. The programme, overseen by Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen, seeks to vaccinate around 14 million cattle within a year. While authorities insist centralised approval through the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority is essential, farmers remain sceptical amid economic losses, export bans and falling beef trade. Industry body AgriSA warns many farmers may not survive unless the outbreak is rapidly contained.
Read full story: The Fence Post
Date published: February 17, 2026
Zambia shuts borders to South African livestock over foot-and-mouth outbreak
Zambia has suspended all imports of livestock and related animal products from South Africa with immediate effect due to the escalating foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) crisis. Import and transit permits for live cloven-hoofed animals and associated products have been revoked, although limited trade may continue under strict biosecurity measures. The move follows President Cyril Ramaphosa declaring FMD a national disaster. While some economists and industry figures say the direct trade impact is limited, others warn that disrupted transit routes could severely affect regional supply chains and export markets.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date published: February 17, 2026
African News
Morocco forecasts sharp rise in grain harvest after heavy winter rains
Morocco is expected to see its cereal harvest double this season following significantly higher winter rainfall, according to industry estimates. Grain traders and millers anticipate improved yields despite localised flooding in north-western plains, with domestic wheat production projected at around 6 million tonnes. Moulay Abdelkader Alaoui said some domestic wheat would be added to strategic reserves without limiting imports, while Omar Yacoubi forecast total cereal output of up to 9 million tonnes. Increased planting areas and higher dam levels have supported production, although port disruptions and shipping delays have added costs for importers.
Read full story: Ukr Agro Consult
Date published: February 17, 2026
Global News
FCC leads $5 billion investment drive into Canadian agriculture
Farm Credit Canada (FCC) has brought together more than 20 investment groups prepared to channel up to $5 billion into Canada’s agriculture and food innovation sector by 2030. The pledge builds on a $2 billion commitment made in May 2025 by FCC’s investment arm, FCC Capital, bringing the total planned investment to $7 billion. Funds will target innovative agri-businesses, infrastructure projects and early-stage ag-tech firms, aiming to scale commercialisation and boost productivity. The coalition marks a significant expansion of support for agricultural innovation, far exceeding the $270 million invested annually in 2021.
Read full story: Farms.com
Date published: February 17, 2026
Chinese Farmers Navigate Rapid Solar Expansion Amid Renewables Boom
Farmers across China are experiencing profound changes as the country accelerates its renewable energy ambitions. In Inner Mongolia, over 46,000 hectares of desert have been transformed into solar farms, with panels doubling as windbreaks to protect grazing land, giving livestock farmers like Xin Guiyi a measure of hope. In Yunnan, tea farmers such as Duan Tiansong face displacement and soil erosion as solar installations replace traditional crops, often with limited consultation or compensation. While state-backed investment has propelled China to over 1,000GW of solar capacity, making it the world’s leading solar panel producer, the rapid expansion poses challenges for local farmers, environmental management, and long-term land use, highlighting the human impact of the country’s green energy revolution.
Read full story: BBC News
Date published: February 17, 2026
Japan’s soaring rice prices trigger political turmoil and ministerial resignation
Japan is grappling with persistently high rice prices, with 5kg packs averaging over ¥4,000 — nearly double pre-shortage levels. Efforts by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries to release 210,000 tonnes of stockpiled rice failed to curb costs, with critics arguing the move came too late. Demand miscalculations and higher advance payments to farmers have further driven up prices. The crisis deepened politically when former agriculture minister Taku Eto resigned following controversial remarks. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi now faces mounting pressure to stabilise prices of the nation’s staple food.
Read full story: IREF
Date published: February 17, 2026
Fiji to give farming national priority alongside tourism
Fiji’s government plans to elevate agriculture to the same national priority as tourism, recognising the sector’s role in sustaining the economy during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel said stronger investment, improved infrastructure and better market systems would support long-term growth, food security and export potential. The initiative is backed by private sector involvement, with BAT Fiji distributing seedlings and developing farming guides in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture. Officials say collaboration between government and industry will be key to strengthening rural livelihoods and economic resilience.
Read full story: FBC News
Date published: February 18, 2026
