South African News
Steenhuisen backs South Africa’s structured plan to combat foot-and-mouth disease
South Africa is advancing a coordinated, science-led response to foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), with Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen confirming progress in vaccine rollout and disease management. A newly gazetted voluntary vaccination scheme allows farmers to fast-track herd protection under strict veterinary oversight, while maintaining traceability and data recording. Vaccine supply constraints are easing, with millions of doses secured and more on the way, supporting a target to vaccinate 80% of the national herd by December. Restrictions in KwaZulu-Natal have been lifted as part of a broader national strategy. The long-term aim is to restore FMD-free status and reopen international red meat markets.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date Published: May 6, 2026
South Africa’s poultry industry marks strong growth and transformation gains
South Africa’s poultry sector has reported significant recovery and expansion since the 2019 Poultry Masterplan, highlighted at a recent Economic Oversight Committee meeting. Investment has exceeded R2.1 billion, with production rising by 26% and 32 major transformation projects successfully launched. The industry, now valued at R74 billion, employs over 110,000 people and has improved competitiveness globally, ranking behind only Brazil in cost efficiency. Growth has persisted despite challenges such as avian influenza, high input costs and infrastructure constraints. Anti-dumping measures and coordinated industry efforts have helped stabilise the sector, positioning it as a resilient and vital contributor to the country’s agricultural economy.
Read full story: South African Poultry Association
Date Published: April 30, 2026
African News
Community projects begin to improve livelihoods in Chivi Central
Residents of Chivi Central are reporting gradual improvements in infrastructure, healthcare and agricultural support through locally driven development initiatives. Farmers have benefited from timely fertiliser distribution, helping stabilise yields in a drought-prone region, while efforts to rehabilitate dip tanks are supporting livestock health and rural incomes. Upgrades to clinics, including additional hospital beds, are easing pressure on limited services, and bridge repairs are improving access to markets and essential facilities. Solar installations in schools and youth-focused programmes are also contributing to community wellbeing. Although challenges remain, these targeted interventions are beginning to address long-standing development gaps.
Read full story: Zimbabwe Situation
Date Published: May 6, 2026
Global News
Grassroots agricultural projects strengthen China–Pakistan cooperation
Small-scale agricultural initiatives are playing a significant role in deepening cooperation between China and Pakistan, particularly through technology transfer and training programmes. Visits to agricultural facilities in Wuhan highlighted projects introducing hybrid seeds, improving crop yields and supporting farmer incomes in Pakistan. These efforts reflect broader collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative, combining China’s technical expertise with Pakistan’s natural resources and agricultural potential. Recent agreements, alongside growing trade and exchanges, signal expanding ties in areas such as farming innovation and food security. Such “small yet meaningful” projects are seen as vital to sustainable development and stronger bilateral relations.
Read full story: Global Times
Date Published: May 5, 2026
Record-breaking sale of vast Australian sheep station set to attract global investors
Australia’s largest-ever sheep station sale is looming as the MacLachlan family lists a 1.29 million-hectare South Australian pastoral aggregation, comprising several major properties. The holding, capable of supporting more than 83,000 sheep, could exceed $40 million and is expected to draw strong interest from both domestic and international buyers. The sale coincides with rising sheep prices and a rebound in foreign investment, which has increased significantly in recent years. Offered as a whole or in parts, the move forms part of a family succession plan. The transaction highlights growing global demand for large-scale agricultural assets and Australia’s appeal as an investment destination.
Read full story: R3eal Estate
Date Published: May 6, 2026
Salmon farming blamed for lasting ecological damage in Chilean Patagonia fjords
Long-term scientific monitoring has revealed severe and potentially irreversible damage to Chilean Patagonia’s fjord ecosystems, driven largely by intensive salmon farming. Researchers report a sharp decline in biodiversity, with some species disappearing and overall populations falling dramatically in recent years. Waste from fish farms, including excess nutrients, antibiotics and chemicals, is creating sediment that harms sensitive marine life such as cold-water corals. Experts warn that the remote location has allowed the crisis to remain largely unnoticed and poorly regulated. Activists have also raised concerns about the scale of farming within protected areas, calling for urgent action to prevent further environmental degradation.
Read full story: ICSF
Date Published: May 2, 2026
Japan confirms fourth swine fever outbreak of 2026
Japan has reported its fourth outbreak of classical swine fever this year, with nearly 3,000 pigs set to be culled at a farm in Fujinomiya, Shizuoka Prefecture. Authorities detected the disease following reports of piglet deaths and have since implemented strict containment measures, including disinfection and controls to prevent contact with wild animals. While the disease poses no risk to human health, it is highly contagious among pigs and can spread through contaminated materials and pork products. The outbreak highlights ongoing risks to livestock production, rural livelihoods and global food security, given pork’s importance as a major protein source.
Read full story: SocialNews.XYZ
Date Published: May 6, 2026
