South African News
Micro-farming initiative gives South African youth a pathway to entrepreneurship
Afrika Tikkun’s Green Acres Hydro-Coop programme is helping tackle youth unemployment and food insecurity in South Africa by training young people to become micro-farming entrepreneurs. Based in Diepsloot, the pilot scheme supports 20 participants, mainly young women, through training in hydroponics, poultry farming and business management. Using compact solar-powered farming systems, the initiative enables participants to launch sustainable enterprises while conserving water and increasing local food production. Partnerships with retail outlets provide practical sales experience, while long-term mentorship encourages business ownership and growth. Afrika Tikkun hopes to expand the programme across more communities in the coming years.
Read full story: IOL News
Date published: May 18, 2026
Illicit ‘dirty diesel’ trade poses growing threat to South African farms
South Africa’s expanding illicit fuel trade is increasingly affecting the agricultural sector, with contaminated or adulterated diesel causing severe damage to farming machinery. Industry experts warn that blending diesel with cheaper substances such as paraffin has become a highly profitable criminal operation, exposing farmers to costly repairs, production delays and machinery failures during key planting and harvesting periods. Modern diesel engines are especially vulnerable due to their advanced technology and fine tolerances. Specialists say adulterated fuel is difficult to detect without laboratory testing and urge farmers to buy only from reputable suppliers, monitor warning signs carefully and carry out regular fuel quality testing to avoid significant financial losses.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date published: May 14, 2026
African News
Community radio and satellite tracking help Zambian farmers face wildlife threats
Farmers living near the Zambia–Malawi border are receiving support to manage growing human-wildlife conflict through community radio broadcasts and satellite tracking technology. In Zambia’s Eastern Province, Chikaya FM airs programmes advising residents on how to avoid dangerous encounters with animals such as elephants and hyenas, which officials say have killed four children in recent months. Alongside the broadcasts, conservation groups and wildlife authorities use satellite collars and real-time monitoring software to track elephant movements and send early warnings to farmers. The initiative also includes electric fencing projects and local response teams aimed at reducing crop damage, livestock losses and attacks on communities.
Read full story: Mongabay
Date published: May 18, 2026
Global News
Trump’s defence of Chinese farmland ownership sparks concern among US farmers
US President Donald Trump has drawn criticism from farmers and lawmakers after defending Chinese purchases of American farmland during a visit to Beijing. Trump argued that restricting foreign ownership would reduce land values and financially harm farmers, a stance that contrasts with previous policies from his own administration aimed at limiting Chinese investment in US agriculture. Farmers and national security experts warned that Chinese ownership of farmland, particularly near military sites, could threaten food security and strategic infrastructure. The remarks come as rural communities already face economic pressure from rising costs, trade instability and falling agricultural exports.
Read full story: Newsweek
Date published: May 16, 2026
India strengthens role as global centre for agricultural innovation
Syngenta has highlighted India’s growing importance in global agricultural research and innovation during a visit by its Global Head of Crop Protection Research and Development, Camilla Corsi. The visit focused on India’s scientific capabilities, sustainable farming initiatives and farmer-centred solutions. Corsi met women farmers in Hyderabad, toured research facilities and attended innovation events showcasing advances in crop protection and digital agriculture. A new AI-enabled chatbot was also launched to support digital engagement and information access. Syngenta said India’s combination of scientific talent, agricultural diversity and research infrastructure makes it a key driver of future global farming solutions.
Read full story: Business Standard
Date published: May 16, 2026
Pakistan expands agricultural cooperation with China under CPEC framework
Pakistan is deepening agricultural cooperation with China as both countries strengthen ties ahead of their 75th diplomatic anniversary in 2026. The partnership, developed under the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, focuses on hybrid seeds, research centres, training, exports and agricultural technology. Chinese farming methods, including advanced seed varieties and precision agriculture tools, are being introduced in Pakistan to boost yields of crops such as maize, rice, chilli and soybean. Joint projects have also improved fruit exports, meat processing standards and fisheries development. Officials say the collaboration is helping Pakistan modernise its farming sector while providing China with more secure food supply chains and expanding trade opportunities across agriculture-based industries.
Read full story: Pakistan Today
Date published: May 17, 2026
Australian farmers turn sheep wool into soil cover to combat drought and boost yields
Australian researchers and farmers are repurposing low-value sheep wool as a natural soil cover to address worsening drought conditions and soil degradation. By applying compressed wool pellets or mulch to farmland, the material helps reduce evaporation, improve moisture retention and support healthier soil biology. Field trials suggest evaporation can fall by up to 35%, soil microorganisms may increase by 30% to 50%, and crop yields could rise by as much as 18%. The approach is particularly promising for dry and sandy soils, where water retention is critical. While not a standalone solution, experts say wool-based ground cover could complement broader sustainable farming practices and provide a new use for declining wool production.
Read full story: Techy 44
Date published: May 17, 2026
