South African News
Communal Farmers Need Targeted Support to Unlock South Africa’s Agricultural Potential
South Africa’s communal farming sector holds far greater agricultural potential than is widely recognised, as highlighted by livestock numbers uncovered during the recent foot-and-mouth disease vaccination campaign. Lebogang Mashala argues that communal farmers are held back not by a lack of ability, but by the absence of dedicated support programmes tailored to their circumstances. While successful livestock development schemes have proven that practical, livestock-based assistance can work, many modern initiatives exclude communal farmers through restrictive requirements. The article contends that government, financial institutions and farmer organisations have failed to adequately support this sector, despite decades of evidence showing its economic and social value. Unlocking communal farming’s potential will require stronger political commitment, targeted programmes and inclusive agricultural development.
Read full story: African Farming
Date Published: June 10, 2026
Farmers Urged to Tighten Immigration Compliance as Enforcement Intensifies
South African farmers are facing growing legal, financial and operational risks as government authorities increase enforcement against the employment of undocumented foreign workers. Katlego Ngwane explains that while migrant labour remains essential to agriculture, employers have a legal duty to verify that foreign employees have valid authorisation to work in the country. Failure to comply can result in criminal charges, fines, business disruptions and reputational damage. The article also highlights the misconception that undocumented workers have no labour rights, noting that employers may still face legal obligations. Farmers are encouraged to audit their workforce, verify documentation and strengthen compliance systems to minimise risk.
Read full story: Food for Mzansi
Date Published: June 11, 2026
African News
Leasing Partnership Aims to Boost Farm Mechanisation and Food Security
Nigeria’s Equipment Leasing Registration Authority (ELRA) and the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) have signed a four-year agreement to improve farmers’ access to agricultural machinery through structured leasing arrangements. The partnership is intended to overcome financing barriers that limit the adoption of mechanised farming equipment, including tractors, harvesters, irrigation systems and processing machinery. Under the agreement, ELRA will oversee lease registration, compliance and tailored leasing models, while NADF will provide advisory services and capacity-building support. The initiative will also engage financial institutions, manufacturers and state governments, with the goal of increasing agricultural productivity, encouraging private sector investment and strengthening national food security.
Read full story: People’s Gazette
Date Published: June 10, 2026
Global News
Mexico Suspends Most U.S. Live Animal Imports Over Screwworm Outbreak
Mexico has halted most imports of live animals from the United States following the confirmation of flesh-eating screwworm cases in Texas and New Mexico. The suspension affects cattle, horses, pigs, sheep, goats and several other livestock species and was implemented in coordination with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Mexican authorities said the measure is intended to protect livestock populations in northern states that remain free of the pest. Mexico has recorded more than 28,200 screwworm cases since November 2024, while the United States has confirmed five cases since early June. The move highlights growing concerns over the spread of the damaging livestock parasite.
Read full story: Successful Farming
Date Published: June 10, 2026
Guyana and Brazil Partner to Create Regional Agricultural Innovation Hub
Guyana and Brazil have signed a letter of intent to establish a regional science, technology and innovation hub aimed at strengthening agriculture across Guyana and the wider Caribbean. Supported by the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA) and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), the initiative will promote agricultural research, technology transfer, climate resilience and sustainable food production. The hub is expected to support CARICOM’s goal of reducing food imports while increasing regional output. It will also provide farmers, researchers and agribusinesses with access to advanced technologies, training and scientific expertise, helping improve productivity and address agricultural challenges across the region.
Read full story: Caribbean Today
Date Published: June 10, 2026
Ageing Canal Network Leaves Thousands of Acres Uncultivated
Thousands of acres of productive farmland in Pakistan’s Larkana division remain barren as the deteriorating Dadu, Rice and North West canals struggle to supply adequate irrigation water. Officials, irrigation specialists and farmers have warned that delays in rehabilitating the century-old canal system threaten agricultural output, rural livelihoods and water security across upper Sindh. Speaking at a workshop for the Sindh Water and Agriculture Transformation (SWAT) Project, participants stressed the need for urgent modernisation to restore water delivery and improve efficiency. They argued that rehabilitation would bring more land back into production, create jobs and strengthen the region’s agricultural economy.
Read full story: The Express Tribune
Date Published: June 11, 2026
China Targets Higher-Value Agricultural Exports and New Markets
China plans to strengthen its agricultural trade competitiveness by focusing on higher-value exports, improved product quality and more diversified export markets during its 2026–2030 development plan. According to the China Agricultural Sector Development Report 2026, agricultural exports reached a record US$104.16 billion in 2025, with strong performance in vegetables, fruit and aquatic products. The report highlights growing opportunities in processed foods and frozen products while emphasising the need for better processing capacity, cold-chain logistics and supply chain efficiency. Although agricultural imports remain significantly higher than exports, China aims to improve self-sufficiency in key commodities while managing risks linked to global market volatility and trade disruptions.
Read full story: China Daily
Date Published: June 11, 2026
