South African News
Gender equality in agriculture is vital for South Africa’s economic future
South Africa’s agricultural transformation must address gender inequality alongside racial disparities to unlock the sector’s full potential. Although women make up around 30% of the agricultural workforce, they remain underrepresented in leadership roles and continue to face barriers including limited access to land, finance, skills and professional networks. Greater inclusion of women would strengthen food security, encourage innovation and improve productivity, particularly as the sector modernises. Research suggests that equal access to resources could significantly increase agricultural output in developing countries. Prioritising women’s empowerment is essential for sustainable growth, economic resilience and meaningful transformation across South Africa’s agricultural industry.
Read full story: IOL
Date published: July 1, 2026
Greater investment in urban farming could strengthen food security and climate resilience
Urban farming is helping vulnerable households in Johannesburg improve food security, earn modest incomes and strengthen community resilience, but greater investment is needed for it to reach its full potential. Research in Alexandra township found that women play a leading role in growing vegetables, herbs and indigenous plants in home, school and community gardens, while also transforming neglected spaces into greener environments. However, limited land, poor access to water, funding, training, fencing and climate adaptation support restrict production. Increased government investment, alongside modern farming technologies and sustainable practices, would enable urban agriculture to boost livelihoods, improve environmental resilience and create stronger, more connected communities.
Read full story: The Conversation Africa
Date published: June 30, 2026
African News
Irish-backed dairy project increases milk production for Tanzanian farmers
A dairy development project supported by Teagasc has helped thousands of smallholder farmers in Tanzania improve milk production, strengthen farm resilience and increase household incomes. The €3 million Maziwa Faida initiative, funded by the Irish Government, has invested in research infrastructure, forage production, farmer training and extension services since 2021. More than 3,600 farmers and 40 extension officers have taken part, while local researchers have received postgraduate training. Farmers adopting improved forage systems have reported milk production increases of more than 50%, particularly during drought periods, demonstrating the benefits of sustainable livestock management and improved feeding practices.
Read full story: Teagasc
Date published: June 30, 2026
Global News
Government unveils 25-year roadmap for the future of English farming
The UK Government has published a 25-year Farming Roadmap outlining its vision for English agriculture through to 2050, with a focus on improving profitability, sustainability and resilience. The strategy includes increased investment in agricultural innovation, an extension of Seasonal Worker visas until at least 2030, regulatory simplification, supply chain reforms and continued support for Environmental Land Management schemes. Developed with input from the farming sector, the roadmap aims to provide greater certainty for long-term investment. While widely welcomed, opposition parties and farming organisations have stressed that successful delivery, adequate funding and stronger support for food security will be essential.
Read full story: Rural Services Network
Date published: June 30, 2026
Thailand urged to reform fertiliser strategy to protect farming sector
Thailand’s farming sector is facing growing risks due to its complete reliance on imported fertilisers, leaving 16 million farmers vulnerable to global supply disruptions and price shocks. Experts say recent geopolitical tensions exposed long-standing structural weaknesses, with fertiliser prices nearly doubling and sharply reducing farm profits. They argue that short-term measures such as subsidies and price controls are no longer sufficient. Instead, they are calling for long-term reforms, including greater use of organic fertilisers, updated legislation, strategic fertiliser reserves and more secure regional supply chains. Improving productivity and reducing import dependence are seen as essential to safeguarding food security and the future of Thai agriculture.
Read full story: The Nation Thailand
Date published: June 30, 2026
Study calls for major land use changes to protect Australia’s biodiversity
Australia may need to restore large areas of farmland to natural ecosystems to prevent further biodiversity loss and meet international conservation targets, according to new research from Adelaide University. The study argues that returning at least 30% of land to nature is essential to avoid ecological decline, particularly in heavily cleared regions of South Australia. Achieving this could require retiring some productive farmland, restoring native vegetation and creating more diverse landscapes that support wildlife and community wellbeing. Researchers acknowledge that gaining public support will be challenging, but warn that climate change and declining agricultural viability make long-term land use reform increasingly necessary.
Read full story: AZoCleantech
Date published: June 30, 2026
Lower interest rates keep New Zealand on-farm inflation in check
Lower interest rates helped keep annual on-farm inflation for New Zealand sheep and beef farms broadly flat to March 2026, according to Beef + Lamb New Zealand. However, excluding borrowing costs, underlying farm inflation rose by 3.9%, outpacing the Consumer Price Index of 3.1%, highlighting continued pressure from rising input costs. Fertiliser, lime and seed prices increased by 8.1%, while rates, electricity and fuel also became more expensive. Although stronger returns for the red meat sector have improved farm incomes, industry leaders warn that costs remain well above pre-2021 levels and further inflationary pressures are expected if interest rates rise again.
Read full story: Farmers Weekly New Zealand
Date published: July 1, 2026
