07 May '25 - Today in Farming

South African News

Sheep Farmers in South Africa Face Dual Climate Challenges: Drought Followed by Disease

South African sheep farmers are grappling with the devastating effects of climate extremes. Prolonged droughts have left grazing lands barren, weakening livestock and rendering them more susceptible to diseases. The delayed onset of rains in late 2024, followed by heavy downpours in early 2025, exacerbated the situation, leading to outbreaks of diseases that thrive in wet conditions. Farmers like Emmanuel Mudau from Limpopo's Vhembe district highlight the challenges of managing livestock health amid these unpredictable weather patterns. The combined stress of drought and subsequent disease outbreaks threatens both animal welfare and the livelihoods of farmers across the region.

Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date Published: May 6, 2025

Brothers Transform Communal Farming Heritage into Mohair Enterprise

Brothers Simphiwe, Thembinkosi, and Linda Fani have successfully transitioned from communal farming to commercial mohair production at Doornrivier Farm in Somerset East, Eastern Cape. Their journey began with managing their father’s cattle in communal grazing areas, which provided them with foundational livestock experience. In 2015, they entered a profit-sharing agreement with the Mohair Empowerment Trust, acquiring Angora goats and expanding their operations. Overcoming challenges such as land acquisition, infrastructure development, and financial constraints, the brothers have built a thriving livestock business, demonstrating resilience and the impact of strategic partnerships in agriculture. 

Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date Published: May 5, 2025

African News 

Egypt Commences Wheat Harvest Season with Ambitious Self-Sufficiency Goals

Egypt has initiated its wheat harvest season, aiming to bolster domestic production and reduce reliance on imports. The government has been investing in expanding agricultural land, modernising irrigation systems, and constructing new storage facilities to enhance wheat yields and ensure crop quality. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to achieve self-sufficiency in wheat production, which is crucial for the nation's food security. The current harvest season is pivotal in realising these objectives and strengthening Egypt's agricultural sustainability. 

Read full story: UKR Agro Consultant
Date Published: May 6, 2025

Global News 

IFC Collaborates with Smallholder Farmers to Enhance Brazil's Dairy Sector

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is working with smallholder dairy farmers in Brazil to strengthen the nation's dairy industry. Through partnerships with companies like Alvoar Lácteos S.A., IFC aims to improve productivity, sustainability, and market access for these farmers. The initiative focuses on providing technical assistance, promoting best practices, and integrating smallholders into more resilient supply chains. By enhancing the capabilities of small-scale producers, the project seeks to bolster Brazil's dairy sector, ensuring greater food security and economic stability for rural communities. 

Read full story: IFC
Date Published: May 5, 2025

Cowen Advocates for EU Defence Funds to Support Agriculture 

Fianna Fáil MEP Barry Cowen has proposed that a portion of the European Union's forthcoming defence budget be allocated to the agriculture sector. He emphasised the importance of safeguarding and increasing Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) subsidies amid the EU's next seven-year budget negotiations. Cowen argued that the link between food production and Europe's collective security is often overlooked, and that enhancing agricultural funding is crucial for both food security and rural economies. His recommendations aim to ensure that agriculture receives adequate support alongside growing defence expenditures. 

Read full story: The Irish Times
Date Published: May 6, 2025

Malaysia's RM114 Billion Palm Oil Industry Pursues Sustainable Profitability

Malaysia's palm oil sector, contributing RM114 billion to exports and 2.3% to GDP in 2024, is evolving towards sustainable profitability. Approximately 26.4% of the oil palm area is managed by smallholders, supporting nearly 450,000 families. The Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification, now covering over 3.86 million hectares, ensures compliance with global environmental standards. By reducing plantation expansion and focusing on yield optimisation, Malaysia aims to meet sustainability requirements, particularly in key markets like the European Union. Continued investment in certification and stakeholder collaboration is essential for maintaining its leadership in responsible palm oil production. 

Read full story: UKR Agro Consultant
Date Published: May 6, 2025

Economic Times: Latest Business News and Market Updates

The Economic Times provides comprehensive coverage of India's business landscape, including market trends, policy changes, corporate developments, and economic analyses. Recent articles highlight the challenges and opportunities in various sectors, offering insights into the factors influencing market movements and investor sentiments. The publication serves as a valuable resource for professionals seeking timely and relevant information to navigate the dynamic business environment.

Read full story: The Economic Times
Date Published: May 6, 2025