South African News
Sorghum Re-emerges as a Climate-Smart Lifeline for South African Farmers
As South Africa faces worsening droughts, erratic rainfall, and rising farming costs, sorghum is re-emerging as a vital crop for smallholder farmers. The ancient grain’s drought tolerance, low fertiliser needs, and ability to grow in poor soils make it a practical alternative to maize in hotter, drier conditions. Beyond its resilience, sorghum also offers strong nutritional benefits, containing more iron, fibre, and antioxidants than maize, while remaining gluten-free. Experts suggest that expanding sorghum production, improving market access, and increasing public awareness could strengthen food security, support rural livelihoods, and help farmers reduce climate-related risks.
Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date Published: April 28, 2026
Free State Commits R1 Billion to Fight Disease and Support Rural Growth
The Free State government has announced a R1.089 billion budget aimed at tackling the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak while strengthening agricultural development and job creation. MEC Elsabe Rockman said plans are in place to vaccinate around 3 million cattle, nearly 18% of South Africa’s national herd, as infections continue to rise in key districts. Alongside disease control measures, the budget supports farmer registration, women- and youth-led agricultural projects, and improvements in education at Glen College of Agriculture. Further priorities include land rehabilitation, climate-resilient farming practices, soil conservation, and the creation of 700 green jobs to support sustainable rural development.
Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date Published: April 29, 2026
African News
African Governments Urged to Act Swiftly on Fertiliser Supply Risks
African governments are being urged to take immediate action as tensions in the Strait of Hormuz disrupt global fertiliser shipments, threatening food production across sub-Saharan Africa. With around 80% of the region’s fertiliser imported, delays and rising prices could severely affect smallholder farmers who produce most of the continent’s food. Experts warn that even a 10% drop in fertiliser availability may significantly reduce staple crop yields and drive food inflation higher. Recommended actions include strengthening market intelligence, coordinating regional procurement, expanding domestic production, protecting farmers through subsidies and credit, and accelerating long-term soil health and fertiliser initiatives to improve food security resilience.
Read full story: African Development Bank Group
Date Published: April 28, 2026
Global News
Central America’s Monoculture Boom Deepens Environmental and Social Strains
The rapid expansion of sugar cane, bananas, African palm and pineapple plantations across Central America is generating growing environmental and social conflict. While these export-driven monocultures support national economies, they are also linked to deforestation, water shortages, soil degradation, and heavy agrochemical use that harms both ecosystems and public health. Rural communities, which rely on family farming for most of the region’s food supply, are increasingly facing land concentration and reduced access to water and subsistence farmland. Resistance movements are emerging across the region as communities challenge weak regulation and demand stronger protection of natural resources and land rights.
Read full story: Havana Times
Date Published: April 28, 2026
Drone Use Set to Expand Across Canadian Farms After Surge in Winter Sales
Following strong winter sales, more Canadian farmers are expected to use drones during the 2026 growing season as the technology becomes increasingly practical for field operations. New models such as the DJI Agras T100 offer major improvements, including a 100-litre tank, speeds of up to 75 km/h, and LiDAR technology for terrain following and obstacle avoidance. These advances allow growers to cover larger areas quickly and work even after heavy rainfall without damaging fields. Farmers are already using drones for seeding cover crops and applying foliar fertiliser, with future pesticide applications likely to expand their role further as demand and training needs continue to grow.
Read full story: RealAgriculture
Date Published: April 28, 2026
New Zealand and Australia Join Forces Over Fuel and Fertiliser Supply Pressures
New Zealand and Australia are stepping up cooperation to manage severe fuel and fertiliser supply disruptions affecting agriculture, aviation and freight sectors. Both governments have moved to secure additional diesel and fertiliser supplies as global shipping routes in the Middle East remain under pressure. Industry leaders say the two countries face similar vulnerabilities, particularly limited refining and storage capacity, and are exploring longer-term collaboration on infrastructure, shipping schedules and manufacturing. Officials stress that the priority is protecting food security and supporting farmers facing rising input costs, while regulatory changes and targeted relief measures aim to strengthen supply chain resilience across Australasia.
Read full story: RNZ
Date Published: April 29, 2026
Labour Migration Reshapes the Future of Indian Farming
Indian agriculture is facing growing pressure as rural workers steadily move away from farm jobs towards construction, transport, factories and local service roles that offer more stable incomes and less physically demanding work. This shift is making it increasingly difficult for farmers to secure labour during crucial sowing and harvesting periods, pushing up costs and raising production risks. Small and marginal farmers are the most affected, as they often lack the financial flexibility to absorb higher wages or invest in expensive machinery. As a result, affordable mechanisation, such as compact harvesters, weeders and rental equipment platforms, is becoming essential to help farming adapt to long-term labour shortages.
Read full story: Agro Spectrum India
Date Published: April 28, 2026
