South African News
South Africa releases 2.5 million hectares of state land to black farmers
South Africa is releasing approximately 2.5 million hectares of state-owned land to black farmers, granting title deeds to support the development of a new generation of commercial farmers. President Cyril Ramaphosa said the initiative aims to address historical inequalities, create jobs and strengthen food security. Despite agricultural exports reaching R270 billion in 2025, black farmers account for only around 10% of commercial farming output. Ramaphosa stressed that land access must be supported by finance, training, mentorship and technology to help emerging farmers establish viable businesses, expand production and access export markets.
Read full story: Eurofruit
Date published: October 13, 2026
Rising costs and dry weather threaten South Africa’s wheat harvest
South Africa’s wheat production is forecast to fall by 5% to 1.81 million tonnes in the 2026/27 season, its lowest level in eight years. Higher fuel and fertiliser costs, reduced planted area and dry conditions in the Western Cape are putting pressure on farmers. Overall winter crop production is nevertheless expected to rise by 2% to 2.67 million tonnes, supported by projected increases in barley, canola and oat harvests. Wheat imports are forecast to reach two million tonnes, increasing reliance on international markets, although global supplies are expected to remain adequate despite potential geopolitical and shipping disruptions.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date published: October 13, 2026
African News
Zimbabwe pays R8.5 billion in compensation to former white farmers
Zimbabwe has paid or issued more than US$500 million in compensation to former white commercial farmers whose land was seized during the land-reform programme launched in 2000. The payments, comprising US$508 million in Treasury bonds and US$12.6 million in cash, form part of a US$3.5 billion agreement reached in 2020. The government aims to resolve the long-running dispute and rebuild trust with international creditors and investors. The programme compensates farmers for improvements made to their land, rather than the land itself, as Zimbabwe seeks to restore agricultural investment and improve access to international finance.
Read full story: IOL
Date published: October 5, 2026
Global News
Farmers encouraged to take time off farm this summer
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is encouraging farmers and rural professionals to prioritise their wellbeing by taking breaks and connecting with others. Its supported initiatives, Surfing for Farmers and Rural Riders, are returning for 2026 at 39 locations nationwide. Surfing for Farmers offers free surfing sessions, with equipment provided and barbecues afterwards, while Rural Riders encourages farmers of all abilities to enjoy mountain biking and social activities. Both programmes aim to help farmers recharge, stay active and build community connections, recognising that taking time away from farm responsibilities can benefit personal wellbeing and business performance.
Read full story: Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Date published: October 13, 2026
Nepalese women campaign for land ownership despite legal reforms
Although Nepal has abolished legal discrimination in property inheritance, cultural norms continue to prevent many women from owning and controlling land. Women account for nearly 70% of the country’s farming population, yet only 20.8% of adult women involved in farming have secure ownership rights to agricultural land, compared with 42.9% of men. Women contribute significantly to farming and sustainable land management through practices such as composting, crop rotation and natural pest control. Advocates argue that education, greater awareness of legal rights and improved economic opportunities are essential to closing the ownership gap and strengthening women’s financial independence and climate resilience.
Read full story: Eco-business
Date published: October 13, 2026
Canadian farmland values rise 3.8% as costs squeeze farm margins
Canadian cultivated farmland values rose by an average of 3.8% during the first half of 2026, slowing from 6% growth over the same period in 2025. Annual growth also eased to 7% for the 12 months to June 2026, compared with 9.3% previously. Farm Credit Canada attributed the slowdown to higher production costs, tighter profit margins and uncertainty surrounding trade, tariffs and international markets. Despite these pressures, farmland values continued to demonstrate resilience, although buyers and sellers are adopting a more cautious and selective approach to the market.
Read full story: Farms.com
Date published: October 12, 2026
Ukraine and Japan develop joint projects to rebuild agricultural sector
Ukraine and Japan are strengthening cooperation to restore and sustainably develop Ukraine’s agricultural sector, with Japanese companies proposing projects involving agricultural technology, irrigation restoration, organic waste processing and AI-powered digital monitoring. Plans also include developing decentralised water infrastructure for communities. Ukraine’s Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food, Taras Vysotskyi, welcomed Japan’s support for small and medium-sized farmers and highlighted opportunities to attract Japanese investment and technology. Both countries intend to identify further joint initiatives through their Joint Working Group and participation in the FOODEX Japan international food exhibition. Around 80 Japanese companies are reportedly considering partnerships in Ukraine.
Read full story: Mezha
Date published: October 13, 2026
