South African News
Electricity costs overtake load-shedding as the biggest risk to South African farming
Electricity affordability has become a greater challenge for South African farmers than load-shedding, with steep tariff increases, ageing infrastructure and unreliable supply placing growing pressure on agricultural businesses. Although Eskom has improved electricity generation, experts warn that rising prices are eroding farm profitability, threatening food security, rural employment and export competitiveness. Many producers are turning to solar power and battery storage to reduce costs and improve reliability, but policies requiring continued grid connection and fixed charges are limiting the benefits. Industry leaders are calling for reforms that support decentralised renewable energy and allow farmers to sell surplus electricity back to the grid.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date published: July 7, 2026
Urban farming strengthens food security in Johannesburg but needs greater support
Urban farming is helping vulnerable households in Johannesburg’s Alexandra township improve food security, generate small incomes and create greener, more climate-resilient communities. Research found that home and community gardens, largely managed by women, provide fresh vegetables, herbs and medicinal plants while supporting community kitchens and local livelihoods. Farmers are also transforming neglected public spaces into productive green areas that help address environmental challenges. However, limited land, water shortages, pests, theft and a lack of funding, training and infrastructure restrict growth. The researchers argue that increased investment, climate-smart technologies and stronger government support are essential to help urban agriculture reach its full potential.
Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date published: July 8, 2026
African News
Ecobank Rwanda launches agriculture lending scheme to boost sector growth
Ecobank Rwanda has introduced its first dedicated agricultural lending facility to improve access to finance for farmers and agribusinesses. The scheme offers loans of up to Rwf700 million for individual enterprises and Rwf2 billion for cooperatives and companies, with repayment terms aligned to agricultural production cycles. Covering the entire agricultural value chain, the facility supports investments in inputs, irrigation, mechanisation, storage, processing and exports. It also features more flexible collateral requirements, allowing assets such as machinery, farmland and outstanding invoices to secure finance. The initiative aims to strengthen food security, support business continuity and unlock growth in Rwanda’s agricultural sector.
Read full story: The New Times Rwanda
Date published: July 8, 2026
Global News
Water shortages threaten Lamphun’s fruit orchards despite rainy season
Fruit growers in Thailand’s Lamphun province are warning that severe water shortages could cause longan and other fruit trees to wither as the Li River, their main irrigation source, continues to dry up during what is normally the peak of the rainy season. Orchard owners say river levels are far below normal, with some sections already dry enough to cross on foot. Local officials fear farmers will face worsening water shortages in the coming months, while water authorities attribute the situation to a ‘Super’ El Niño and expect drought conditions to persist into early next year. Farmers are being urged to manage water resources carefully.
Read full story: Mizzima
Date published: July 8, 2026
India and Indonesia strengthen partnership on sustainable agriculture
India and Indonesia have agreed to expand agricultural cooperation by improving food security through the supply of Indian-developed wheat seeds and the sharing of sustainable farming practices and agricultural technologies. Announced during talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Prabowo Subianto in Jakarta, the partnership will focus on boosting productivity through modern innovations, including artificial intelligence, drones, sensors and improved irrigation techniques. India also pledged to share its agricultural research and experience, highlighting its success in combining traditional farming methods with advanced technology and supporting agri-tech start-ups to encourage greater youth participation in agriculture.
Read full story: ANTARA News
Date published: July 7, 2026
Pakistan to train 10,000 young people in advanced agricultural technologies
Pakistan’s government plans to train up to 10,000 young people in advanced agricultural technologies as part of efforts to modernise the sector and strengthen rural economies. The announcement accompanied the launch of a three-year climate-resilient peanut value chain project in Rawalpindi, which aims to improve productivity, support climate-smart farming and create jobs through research, innovation and stronger market links. The initiative will train around 2,000 farmers and small businesses, establish a certified seed system, upgrade processing facilities and encourage youth-led agribusinesses, with a strong focus on women’s participation, entrepreneurship and technology transfer through partnerships with Chinese institutions.
Read full story: Pakistan Today
Date published: July 8, 2026
Polish apple exporters face weather setbacks and uncertain export prospects
Polish apple growers are expecting a smaller harvest for some varieties, including Jonagold, Idared and Ligol, following spring frosts and hailstorms, although Gala and Golden Delicious crops currently appear more promising. Exporters say it is still too early to determine the final harvest size, with weather conditions over the coming weeks remaining critical. While hopes of gaining access to the Ecuadorian and Brazilian markets have stalled, demand from Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan has strengthened. With large stocks of apples still in storage across Europe and rising operating costs, exporters expect a challenging season and are exploring automation and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency.
Read full story: FreshPlaza
Date published: July 7, 2026
