South African News
Parliament Raises Alarm Over North West Foot-and-Mouth Disease Response
The Select Committee on Agriculture, Land Reform and Mineral Resources has expressed serious concern about the North West province’s handling of the ongoing foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak, warning that shortcomings in vaccination, reporting and response measures could jeopardise national containment efforts. Members highlighted inconsistencies between previous oversight findings and the Department of Agriculture’s latest assessment, stressing the province’s strategic importance due to its borders with key regions. The committee also raised concerns about vaccine rollout, veterinary capacity, farmer support and restoring export markets. The Department of Agriculture said vaccine supply issues have been addressed and pledged intensified support and monitoring for underperforming provinces, particularly the North West.
Read full story:Parliament of South Africa
Date Published: June 2, 2026
Aquaponics Education Helps South African Youth Tackle Food Security and Climate Challenges
Aquaponics is gaining momentum in South African schools as a practical solution to food insecurity, water scarcity and climate-related agricultural challenges. Introduced into the national curriculum seven years ago, the system combines fish farming and plant cultivation in a water-efficient, soil-free environment. Non-profit organisation INMED has trained hundreds of teachers and more than 7,000 learners, developing a modular aquaponics model that has already produced significant food yields for schools and local communities. Beyond improving access to nutritious food, the initiative is equipping young people with agricultural and climate adaptation skills, while encouraging interest in sustainable farming and future careers in the sector.
Read full story:Climate Home News
Date Published: June 2, 2026
African News
Ugandan Agribusinesses Drive Climate Resilience and Economic Growth
Agribusinesses in northern Uganda are strengthening climate resilience and improving livelihoods by promoting drought-tolerant crops and sustainable farming practices. Cassava processor Thamini Utubora Afrika (TUA) has connected more than 1,000 smallholder farmers to reliable markets, improved incomes and expanded access to regional export opportunities through upgraded production and packaging systems. Meanwhile, Abim West Farmers' Cooperative has grown from 30 producer groups to over 5,000 members, increasing agricultural output and adopting climate-smart farming methods, crop insurance and stronger governance. Supported by the International Trade Centre’s STAR project, both enterprises demonstrate how sustainable agriculture, market access and inclusive growth can be achieved simultaneously.
Read full story:International Trade Centre
Date Published: June 2, 2026
Global News
USDA Intensifies Measures Following New World Screwworm Detection Near US Border
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has strengthened surveillance and prevention efforts after New World screwworm was detected in a goat in Mexico’s Coahuila state, around 25 miles south of the US border. Officials stressed that the pest has not been found in the United States and outlined plans for immediate quarantines, movement controls, increased trapping and the release of sterile flies if a domestic case emerges. The USDA highlighted sterile fly releases as the most effective control measure and noted that additional production capacity in Mexico is expected later this year. Authorities are also increasing public communications to counter misinformation and provide regular updates.
Read full story:Brownfield Ag News
Date Published: June 2, 2026
Rising Costs Slow Palm Oil Replanting Efforts in Malaysia
Malaysia’s palm oil sector is reducing replanting activity as soaring fertiliser and fuel costs place increasing pressure on producers, particularly smallholders. Fertiliser prices have risen by as much as 60%, while diesel costs have more than doubled, encouraging farmers to maximise production from existing plantations rather than replace ageing trees. Industry leaders warn that continued delays in replanting could reduce future yields and tighten global palm oil supplies. While larger plantation companies remain relatively unaffected, smallholders face significant financial constraints. The Malaysian government has introduced support measures, including targeted cash assistance, bulk fertiliser purchasing and logistics incentives, to help farmers manage rising input and operating costs.
Read full story:Ofi Magazine
Date Published: June 3, 2026
271 Cattle to Be Slaughtered After Major Traceability Breach on Fife Farm
A farm in Fife is set to slaughter 271 cattle after inspectors found the animals to be unidentifiable and untraceable, breaching Scotland’s livestock identification and movement regulations. The breach means the cattle cannot enter the food chain and have been placed under permanent movement restrictions. Scottish Government inspectors will oversee and verify the slaughter after a compliance inspection uncovered serious failures in record-keeping. Authorities stressed that livestock traceability rules are essential for disease control and public health protection. The incident, believed to be one of the largest of its kind in Scotland, may also result in significant financial losses and reductions in farm support payments for the business involved.
Read full story:FarmingUK
Date Published: June 2, 2026
DairyNZ Warns Rising Costs Are Eroding Gains Despite Strong Milk Prices
Dairy farmers are continuing to benefit from record milk prices, strong production levels and improved balance sheets, but DairyNZ warns that rising input costs are beginning to offset these gains. Its latest economic survey shows the 2024–25 season was one of the strongest in a decade, driven by higher milk output and sustained payouts above $9/kgMS. However, forecasts for 2025–26 and 2026–27 indicate increasing pressure from fuel, fertiliser, feed and interest costs, partly linked to global disruptions. While farms remain profitable, breakeven milk prices are rising and profit margins are tightening. DairyNZ advises farmers to focus on cost control, resilience and careful budgeting amid ongoing volatility.
Read full story:DairyNZ
Date Published: June 3, 2026
