South African News
PIC moves to sell troubled Daybreak Foods after years of setbacks
South Africa’s Public Investment Corporation (PIC) is seeking to sell more than 60% of Daybreak Foods, a major poultry producer it fully owns, following years of operational and governance challenges. The company, once a key player supplying about 6% of the national chicken market, has faced allegations of mismanagement, financial strain and animal welfare concerns, leading to its placement in business rescue in June last year. Despite recent improvements, the PIC aims to bring in a strategic partner to revive the business. Originally acquired in 2015 to boost transformation and food security, Daybreak’s decline highlights the risks tied to state-backed investments.
Read full story: Business Tech
Date Published: April 2, 2026
South African grapes enter Philippine market after decade-long push
South Africa has delivered its first commercial shipment of table grapes to the Philippines, marking the opening of a new agricultural trade route after more than ten years of negotiations. The market, one of the world’s top importers of grapes, offers strong growth potential due to its large and expanding consumer base. Industry leaders see the move as a foundation for long-term export growth, with apples and pears expected to follow once regulatory processes are finalised. While early reception has been positive, exporters face stiff competition from established Australian suppliers. Attention is also turning to South Korea as the next key export destination.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date Published: April 2, 2026
African News
Guinea fowl highlighted as overlooked key to Africa’s food security
Guinea fowl, long central to rural livelihoods in Ghana, is being highlighted as an underutilised resource with significant potential to improve food security and economic growth across Africa. Speaking at a university lecture, Professor Ibn Iddriss Abdul Rahman argued that limited investment in research, breeding, nutrition and disease control has held the sector back, with high mortality rates among young birds a major challenge. Despite being well suited to local conditions, production remains largely informal. Greater scientific support, policy focus and investment could transform guinea fowl into a reliable, commercially viable livestock industry, creating jobs and strengthening food systems.
Read full story: GBC Ghana Online
Date Published: March 31, 2026
Global News
Pakistan plans diesel subsidy to support small-scale farmers
Pakistan’s government is preparing a diesel subsidy scheme aimed at easing financial pressure on small farmers ahead of the next crop season. The proposal would provide up to Rs1,500 per acre to farmers owning up to five acres, with funds distributed directly through digital wallets to ensure transparency. Provincial governments are expected to allocate around Rs150 billion collectively, while the federal government will oversee coordination. The initiative comes amid concerns over rising fuel prices and regional tensions, and is intended to stabilise agricultural costs. Existing farmer data suggests millions across provinces are likely to benefit from the scheme.
Read full story: Dunya News
Date Published: April 1, 2026
Fertiliser shortages from Gulf crisis strain South Asian farmers
Rising fertiliser costs and supply uncertainty, driven by disruption in the Strait of Hormuz amid the US-Israel conflict with Iran, are placing mounting pressure on farmers across South Asia. As the sowing season approaches, many are cutting fertiliser use to manage costs, risking lower yields and reduced incomes. The region’s heavy reliance on imported fertilisers leaves it vulnerable to global shocks, with millions of livelihoods at stake. Governments insist supplies remain stable for now, but farmers report price increases and unpredictability already affecting decisions. The situation threatens to push up food prices and deepen financial strain on households dependent on agriculture.
Read full story: Al Jazeera
Date Published: April 2, 2026
Bullfrog farming promoted as new income opportunity in Sabah
Bullfrog farming is being encouraged as a promising commercial venture to boost income and economic resilience among rural communities in Sabah. Speaking at a training course in Tambunan, Sawit Kinabalu Deputy Chairman Victor P Paut highlighted the sector’s strong market potential and its role in developing entrepreneurial skills. He urged participants to adopt a more self-reliant mindset and embrace new opportunities beyond traditional livelihoods. With 50 attendees taking part, the initiative aims to create successful local entrepreneurs who can raise living standards and contribute to regional economic growth through specialised livestock farming.
Read full story: Daily Express
Date Published: April 2, 2026
Austrian farmers stage tractor protest over food origin labelling
Around 300 tractors rolled through Vienna as farmers protested against the lack of mandatory origin labelling for prepared food in restaurants and supermarkets. While Austria requires origin labels on raw products, processed foods and meals are often exempt, which farmers say disadvantages local producers and misleads consumers. Demonstrators argued that hidden imports distort competition and undermine domestic agriculture. The protest, unusual for Austria, reflects broader pressures facing European farmers, including rising fuel and fertiliser costs, climate challenges, low prices and concerns over international trade agreements affecting the sector’s stability.
Read full story: France 24
Date Published: April 1, 2026
