South African News
South Africa prepares drought measures as strong El Niño threatens 2026/27 season
South Africa’s government plans to strengthen drought preparedness following a high-level agricultural roundtable warning of a potentially strong El Niño during the 2026/27 summer season. The Free State, North West, Mpumalanga and Limpopo are considered particularly vulnerable to hotter, drier conditions. Although healthy dam levels, soil moisture and grain stocks offer some reassurance, rain-fed farmers remain exposed, alongside livestock producers facing reduced grazing and heat stress. Participants called for improved early-warning systems, better soil moisture and water management, crop diversification, and greater access to finance, insurance and climate-smart technology for vulnerable smallholders. Recommendations will inform government planning, but no specific drought-relief funding has been announced.
Read full story: Cape Times
Date published: October 15, 2026
South African farmers call for urgent investment in resilient local food supply chains
South African farmers are urging practical support to strengthen local food supply chains and tackle food insecurity, highlighting high fuel and production costs, poor roads, unreliable communications and gaps in government support. Gauteng farmer Nompumelelo Dhlamini called for a bottom-up approach, with farmers involved in policy development and given access to infrastructure, training and long-term assistance. Other contributors stressed the importance of secure land tenure, preserving indigenous crops and livestock breeds, and encouraging young people into agriculture. Stellenbosch Business School’s Prof. Jako Volschenk also urged better use of surplus and lower-grade produce, including opportunities for small-scale food processing, to reduce waste and create economic value.
Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date published: October 16, 2026
African News
Lesotho urges poultry farmers to match production with market demand and improve quality
Lesotho’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition has urged poultry farmers in Teyateyaneng to align production with customer demand, improve farm management and maintain consistent supplies. During a three-day workshop, officials introduced the Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment and Promotion (SHEP) approach, encouraging farmers to identify markets before production. Guidance covered poultry housing, ventilation, heating, feeding, equipment and hygiene to improve bird health and prevent disease. Farmers were also advised to consider customer preferences for specific chicken portions and whole birds, while improving product quality to meet international market standards and strengthen business sustainability.
Read full story: APO Group / Africa Newsroom
Date published: October 15, 2026
Global News
Malaysian farmers demand urgent action after elephants destroy orchards
Farmers in Bukit Bangkong, Ipoh, Malaysia, are urging authorities to address repeated wild elephant incursions that have damaged orchards and infrastructure since 27 September. Three incidents have affected 12 farmers across 9.7 hectares, destroying fruit trees, water tanks and pipes, with losses amounting to thousands of ringgits. Crops affected include durian, coconut, jackfruit and bananas. Farmers have lodged a complaint with the Department of Wildlife and National Parks and fear for their safety when visiting their land. Local councillors have also called for swift intervention to protect livelihoods and prevent potential injuries.
Read full story: Asia News Network
Date published: October 16, 2026
Indonesia introduces agricultural carbon trading rules requiring benefit-sharing with farmers
Indonesia has introduced new regulations governing carbon offset projects in agriculture, covering rice cultivation, livestock and plantations. Agriculture Minister Regulation No. 18/2026 allows businesses, government bodies and farmer organisations to develop projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or increase carbon storage through practices such as improved rice-field water management, livestock waste treatment, cover cropping and conservation agriculture. Developers must establish benefit-sharing agreements with at least three local farmer organisations, based on free, prior and informed consent. Projects must undergo registration, independent validation and verification, with annual government evaluations assessing emissions reductions, community participation and fair distribution of benefits.
Read full story: Ecobiz.asia
Date published: October 16, 2026
Philippine government prepares irrigation support for farmers facing Super El Niño
The Philippine government is preparing support for farmers in Zamboanga del Norte as the country faces the threat of a potentially very strong El Niño. Officials are working with local authorities to identify resource gaps, particularly shortages of irrigation water, with electric and solar-powered pumps proposed to improve water access. The Provincial Agriculture Office has been asked to submit an inventory of equipment and other needs. Existing agricultural programmes have supported 62 hectares of vegetable production, generating ₱1.25 million in gross income, alongside broiler farming and market access initiatives benefiting farmers’ associations.
Read full story: Philippine Information Agency
Date published: October 16, 2026
Climate change increases production costs and reduces crop yields across Mexico
Extreme heat, drought and irregular rainfall are reducing agricultural yields and increasing production costs across Mexico, affecting wheat, maize, coffee, cocoa and cempasúchil flowers. Wheat production in 2025 fell by around 34% year on year, while drought sharply reduced maize output in Sinaloa, increasing reliance on imports. Rising temperatures and unpredictable weather are also contributing to global coffee and cocoa price volatility. Cempasúchil growers face crop losses, greater pest and disease pressure, and higher spending on agricultural inputs. Farmers are adapting through drip irrigation, staggered planting, improved soil water retention and shade nets to protect crops.
Read full story: Mexico Business News
Date published: October 15, 2026
