In The Spotlight
The Africa Agri Expo (AAE) 2026 marks the ninth edition of one of the continent’s most significant agricultural gatherings, proudly hosted in Kenya
More than just an exhibition, this event acts as a bridge connecting Africa’s thriving agribusiness sector with the global market. It brings together the best of agritech, innovation, and sustainable farming solutions, at a time when Africa’s agriculture industry is projected to grow to an impressive US$1 trillion by 2030.
Organised under the endorsement of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, Kenya, AAE has become a trusted platform for farmers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and industry experts. The event fosters collaboration and learning, encouraging meaningful dialogue that drives innovation, trade, and growth across the African agricultural value chain.
What makes AAE 2026 stand out from other agritech expos is its strong focus on practical partnerships and real business growth. It’s not just a showcase - it’s a movement pushing the continent toward a smarter, more sustainable agricultural future. Visitors will explore a wide range of innovations, from intelligent irrigation systems and modern machinery to precision farming technologies designed for African soils and climates.
The upcoming expo will feature an impressive mix of exhibitions, strategic conferences, networking lounges, and panel discussions, all aimed at empowering stakeholders with new knowledge and market opportunities. Attendees can expect to see the latest breakthroughs including AI-driven predictive analytics for crop management, drones capable of early pest and disease detection, and blockchain systems ensuring transparency from farm to fork.
There will also be demonstrations of autonomous robots for weeding and harvesting, advancements in gene-edited seeds, and integrated farm management software that uses IoT data to guide farmers’ decisions in real-time. AAE 2026 will serve as a hub for innovation, where technology meets tradition to create a resilient and profitable farming future.
For more information visit: https://africa-agriexpo.com/
Brad Barthorpe, Sales Manager Distributors Africa for Husqvarna South Africa,says that it is not just about clearing ground, it’s about understanding your terrain,choosing the right tools, and setting up conditions that give crops the best possible start.“If you treat your soil well, it will pay you back with healthy plants and stronger yields.”
Healthy soil is the heart of successful farming. Whether you’re growing vegetables on a small plot or managing a larger field, the way you prepare your soil will determine how well your crops perform. Good preparation helps roots spread freely, improves water movement, and boosts nutrient availability, while poor timing or overworking the land can undo months of hard effort.
Soil has its own natural structure made up of different layers that support life beneath the surface. Digging too deep or tilling too aggressively can break these layers and damage the balance that healthy plants depend on. In most cases, loosening just the top 5 to 8 centimetres of soil is enough to create what’s known as a “fine tilth” — a loose, crumbly texture that allows roots, air, water, and nutrients to move freely. For small plots or gardens, lightweight tillers and cultivators are perfect tools to reduce compaction while keeping the sub-soil intact.
Timing is equally important. Working the soil when it’s too wet can cause clods and structural damage, while working it dry leaves only dust. The best test is simple: squeeze a handful of soil — it should hold its shape lightly and then crumble apart. Early spring, when the ground is warm but not saturated, usually offers the ideal conditions for soil preparation.
Sometimes, deeper tilling becomes necessary, especially when poor drainage, restricted root growth, or compacted layers known as “hardpan” are present. In such cases, a sturdy rear-tine tiller can help. Start with a shallow pass to break the surface crust, then go deeper to loosen the lower layers. Always work in straight, consistent lines and let the machine’s own weight do the job. On sloped land, till across the slope to prevent erosion and water run-off.
For soils already in good health, minimal or no-dig methods work beautifully. Simply layer compost, manure, or mulch on top, allowing worms and microbes to mix it naturally. Always clear stones and debris before working, wear proper safety gear, and keep bystanders safe.
“Healthy soil is the starting point of every harvest,” notes Barthorpe.“With seasonal timing, sound technique, and the right tools, like those from Husqvarna, land preparation shifts from chore to investment,” he concludes.
The year 2025 marks a defining period for South Africa’s macadamia industry, as the sector faces major shifts that will influence its future growth and profitability
Three significant developments are shaping the direction of the industry: declining inshell prices, widening price gaps between different kernel grades, and the increasing importance of strong partnerships between growers and processors. These changes reflect how the market is evolving and why farmers need to adapt their production and marketing strategies to remain competitive.
Macadamia nuts sold in their shells have encountered tough market conditions, largely due to the industry’s dependence on export markets such as China. As China strengthens its own cracking and processing capacity, its need for imported South African inshell nuts has decreased, placing continued pressure on prices. This growing self-sufficiency highlights the risk of exporting unprocessed produce instead of investing in local value addition. Farmers are now encouraged to explore domestic cracking and processing opportunities, which can help them secure better returns and reduce exposure to global market fluctuations.
At the same time, the market is experiencing a noticeable difference in prices between whole and broken kernels. Although international demand for macadamia kernels remains strong, whole kernels are commanding much higher premiums than halves or pieces. Farmers who focus on varieties and post-harvest practices that maximise whole-kernel yield stand to benefit most. Traditional inshell varieties, such as Beaumont, tend to produce a higher percentage of halves when cracked, leading to reduced margins. This trend demonstrates how careful variety selection and quality-focused handling can directly influence on-farm profitability.
The strength of relationships between growers and processors is also becoming more critical. While farmers have little control over international price movements, they can improve their earnings by partnering with processors who prioritise efficiency and product care. As one expert noted: “Even the best crop can lose value if the processor lacks the right equipment or does not pay attention to detail.” Every small improvement in handling, from minimising drop heights to maintaining equipment, can make a real difference in kernel recovery and value.
By investing in quality production, building reliable partnerships, and focusing on value-added processing, South Africa’s macadamia growers can secure a stronger, more sustainable future.
For the first time in its history, the International Greenhouse Gas & Animal Agriculture Conference (GGAA) has arrived on African soil—an historic moment placing the continent at the centre of the global dialogue on climate change, livestock, and sustainable agriculture
Now underway in Nairobi, Kenya, the 9th edition of the GGAA is co-hosted by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) and the Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO).
With over 500 scientists, policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society representatives attending, the event seeks to shape practical, science-driven solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from livestock while enhancing food security, supporting rural economies, and building climate resilience. The conference makes it clear: Africa is not just a stakeholder in this global challenge—it’s a critical player.
Choosing Nairobi was a deliberate shift in narrative. Africa is home to one-third of the world’s livestock, and in several countries, the livestock sector contributes up to 80% of GDP. Yet smallholder farmers who form the backbone of this sector have historically been underrepresented in international policy-making. Hosting GGAA in Kenya offers these communities not only visibility but a platform to influence future strategies and innovations.
A core message emerging from GGAA 2025 is that “one size doesn’t fit all.” Solutions developed for high-output systems in Europe or North America such as methane-reducing feed additives are often impractical in African contexts, where productivity levels differ significantly. Instead, the focus is on improving animal health, feed quality, and breeding the most effective tools for reducing emissions per unit of product in smallholder systems.
Throughout the conference, cutting-edge climate-smart innovations are being showcased. These include breeding cattle for lower methane emissions using genomic selection, real-time methane monitoring via exhalomics, circular manure systems that convert waste into energy and fertiliser, and digital farm tools to streamline carbon tracking and management. Some models suggest that improving disease control alone could cut emission intensity by 12%.
Technical sessions are diving deep into topics such as methane measurement, rumen microbiome genomics, policy integration, and sustainable manure management. But alongside the science, a strong call echoes throughout the conference: solutions must be practical, inclusive, and accessible for farmers on the ground.
As ILRI’s Director General, Professor Appolinaire Djikeng, said, “The goal is to cut emissions while raising yields—that’s the win-win of climate-smart livestock.”
GGAA 2025 is more than a conference; it’s a turning point. It signals the rise of Africa as a driver of equitable, locally informed, and globally impactful climate action within the livestock sector.
Aquatic foods play a vital role in providing high-quality protein and essential nutrients needed to combat malnutrition.
A new partnership between the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the European Union (EU) has been launched to improve access to safe, affordable, and nutritious aquatic foods for vulnerable communities across Africa and Latin America
The initiative, titled New Aquatic Food Value Chains for Sustainable Healthy Diets in Fragile Contexts (NAVAC), aims to enhance food security, support local economies, and drive innovation within aquatic food systems.
Backed by a €20mn contribution from the EU and an additional US$500,000 from FAO’s Technical Cooperation Programme, NAVAC will run from 2025 to 2030 in Chad, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, South Sudan, and Colombia.
“The main aim of NAVAC is to expand the supply of sustainable, affordable, safe and nutritious aquatic foods and ensure that it reaches nutritionally vulnerable populations while at the same time providing economic benefits to local communities through Blue Transformation innovations in aquatic food value chains,” said Godfrey Magwenzi, Deputy Director-General of FAO.
Aquatic foods play a vital role in providing high-quality protein and essential nutrients needed to combat malnutrition, particularly among children, pregnant women, and other at-risk groups. Despite their benefits, these resources often remain underutilised in national food and nutrition strategies.
NAVAC is closely aligned with FAO’s Four Betters – Better Production, Better Nutrition, a Better Environment, and a Better Life – ensuring that no one is left behind. It also contributes to FAO’s Blue Transformation agenda, which seeks to build more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient aquatic food systems.
“NAVAC promotes innovative and integrated approaches to value chain development, from ‘net to plate’, ensuring that interventions advance food security and nutrition outcomes, strengthen livelihoods and enhance environmental sustainability,” said Annette Schneegans, Deputy Permanent Representative of the European Union to FAO. “It reflects the European Union’s commitment to the Global Gateway strategy,” she added.
FAO will lead the project in collaboration with the Technical University of Denmark. Initial efforts will focus on assessing aquatic food value chains in each target country to identify opportunities and challenges. Based on these insights, the project will design tailored strategies to improve production, processing, and distribution, ensuring that nutritious aquatic foods reach those who need them most.
Drawing on lessons from the FISH4ACP initiative, NAVAC aims to strengthen fisheries and aquaculture sectors, helping rural communities achieve better nutrition, income stability, and sustainable livelihoods.
As Africa’s agriculture continues to grow and modernise, one of the biggest challenges remains the same — how to keep the hard-earned harvest safe and profitable
Recognising this, Bühler is set to showcase its smart silo and grain-storage technology at the upcoming African Agri Investment Indaba (AAII), happening from November 24–26, 2025, at the Cape Town Convention Centre.
The prestigious event will bring together more than 800 participants, including investors, project developers, and government leaders. Their mission: to explore the future of Africa’s agri-food systems and address the economic and environmental forces shaping the continent’s food security.
Bühler’s involvement at AAII is a clear signal of how vital advanced grain storage has become for African farmers. Marco Sutter, Bühler Southern Africa’s Managing Director, said,“As Africa grapples with the dual challenges of feeding a growing population whilst minimising post-harvest losses, smart silo technology represents a critical solution. We are excited to share how these innovations can transform grain storage across the continent.”
For many farmers, post-harvest losses are as painful as poor rainfall. After months of hard work, pests, moisture, and contamination can quickly destroy what was meant to feed families and earn livelihoods. Bühler’s smart silos tackle this challenge head-on. These modern structures come equipped with sensors, monitoring systems, and automated controls that maintain the perfect storage environment. Using Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and machine learning, the system can predict and prevent spoilage helping farmers keep more of what they grow.
Why does this matter so much? Africa loses around 37% of locally produced food every year due to transport delays, poor infrastructure, and storage inefficiencies. Add to that the growing threat of land degradation and climate change, which could cut agricultural production by 18%, even as the demand for food may triple by 2050 — and the importance of safe grain storage becomes impossible to ignore.
Bühler’s innovation promises real change. The smart silos provide real-time grain monitoring, automatic climate control, and predictive maintenance that stops spoilage before it happens. As Sutter, said,“The African Agri Investment Indaba connects the full agricultural value chain, from production to processing to distribution … This comprehensive approach is exactly what is needed to unlock Africa’s agricultural potential. Bühler’s smart silo technology fits seamlessly into this vision by ensuring that the grain farmers work so hard to produce is protected and preserved throughout the storage phase.”
Beyond showcasing technology, Bühler sees this event as a platform for collaboration. As Sutter adds, “We view the Indaba not just as a speaking opportunity, but as a chance to forge meaningful partnerships that can drive real change. Africa’s food security challenges require collaborative solutions, and we are committed to working alongside governments, investors, and agricultural producers to deploy technology that makes a tangible difference.”
For farmers across the continent, this innovation could mean less waste, more income, and greater resilience. Bühler’s smart silo technology stands as a beacon of how technology and agriculture can work together to feed Africa’s future — one grain at a time.
The new CCT is ideal for those looking to improve efficiency in the field.(Image credit: Grange Machinery)
Yorkshire-based manufacturer Grange Machinery is preparing to launch a new and improved version of its well-known 6m Close Coupled Toolbar (CCT) at Agritechnica 2025
The latest design has been developed to meet growing demand from farmers who require greater flexibility when drilling maize and other row crops.
The upgraded CCT now offers tine spacings of both 75cm and 50cm, along with extra brackets that allow users to adjust the spacing of the low disturbance legs. This versatility means farmers can easily switch between a standard 50cm soil loosener setup during harvest and wider 75cm rows for maize and similar crops.
Designed in close collaboration with working farmers, the new CCT is ideal for those looking to improve efficiency in the field. When paired with a mounted or trailed drill, it allows users to eliminate soil compaction and drill maize precisely in one pass, saving both time and fuel.
Rhun Jones, Managing Director of Grange Machinery, said," Sowing maize in 75cm rows is becoming more common. People were looking at the 6m CCT and saying, ‘I like it, I want one’, but then the conversation about maize would come up. Often, when they found out it couldn’t do that, they’d leave it. But with a lot of customers asking about it, we decided we had to get it sorted. So, we worked closely with one of our customers who wanted the 50cm spacings during harvest but also grows a large acreage of maize." He added, " With his input, we have designed a machine that does both and we’re very excited about it. It functions as an all-loosening system during harvest, but a maize and strip tillage system in that season, so it’s very versatile.”
Built for strength and reliability, the 6m CCT can operate with mounted or trailed equipment and comes PTO-ready. It excels at track eradication, shallow subsoiling, and correcting compaction both before drilling and after harvest. When fitted with a packer roller, it delivers a fine seedbed in a single pass.
Rhun added," Agritechnica is the biggest farm machinery show in Europe, possibly even the world. To be exhibiting is a privilege, but to be launching a new machine there is a dream come true. We cannot wait to sample the atmosphere and showcase the Grange brand on such a grand scale.”
