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Cattle

Tanzania’s Kagera region is stepping up efforts to attract investment into dairy and beef production as part of a wider strategy to unlock its vast livestock potential and respond to rapidly growing demand for animal protein at both national and regional levels.

The renewed push was articulated by the Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Bashiru Ally, during a working visit to a Farmers’ Field School in Muleba district.

Dr Ally underscored the importance of scaling up the production of high-quality animal feed, describing it as a critical driver for increasing milk and meat output. He pointed to Kagera’s strong natural advantages, including abundant pasture, reliable water resources and a strategic location within the Great Lakes region, positioning the area as a prime destination for commercial livestock investment.

Highlighting opportunities beyond traditional smallholder systems, the minister said targeted investments in productivity, modern technology and supporting infrastructure could significantly boost returns across the dairy and beef value chains. “Kagera region has a good climate that can be a source of quality beef and ranching,” he stated, noting that the presence of existing commercial ranches offers a solid foundation for public–private partnerships to enhance efficiency and scale.

The minister also encouraged farmers to embrace modern dairy production models, cautioning against maintaining large herds of low-yield cattle. Instead, he advocated for productivity-focused systems that improve profitability, food security and household incomes. The dairy sector, he noted, is central to Tanzania’s broader goals of industrialisation, nutrition improvement and inclusive economic growth.

Official projections indicate that Tanzania’s demand for meat could triple by 2030, driven by population growth, urbanisation and rising incomes across Africa. Current livestock supply, however, remains inadequate, underscoring the need for significant investment in ranches, feedlots, abattoirs, meat processing facilities and tanneries. Despite recent export gains, Tanzania recorded meat exports of just 14,000 metric tonnes in 2024, far below the national target of 50,000 metric tonnes.

To address these gaps, Kagera authorities have earmarked about 66,215 hectares under the Mwisa II Project for dairy industry development. Investors are being encouraged to establish milk, beef and hides processing plants, leveraging the region’s extensive pastureland and infrastructure, including five National Ranching Company (NARCO) ranches. Despite its livestock resources, Kagera currently contributes only 7.6 per cent to Tanzania’s GDP, highlighting significant untapped potential for agribusiness-led growth.

Nigeria is strengthening its domestic production base through land expansion and fresh investment under the second phase of the National Sugar Master Plan (NSMP).

Agriculture

Nigeria is steadily expanding sugarcane cultivation as part of a broader strategy to reduce its heavy reliance on imported sugar, according to the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) and the United States Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service.

The move comes at a time when global sugar production continues to rise, intensifying competition in international markets.

USDA projections estimate that global sugar output will reach about 189.32 million tonnes in the 2025–2026 season, up from 180.75 million tonnes in 2024–2025, representing an increase of nearly five per cent. Against this backdrop, Nigeria is strengthening its domestic production base through land expansion and fresh investment under the second phase of the National Sugar Master Plan (NSMP).

NSDC data show that Nigeria’s harvested sugarcane area expanded from around 75,000 hectares in 2020 to approximately 100,000 hectares by 2025. Over the same period, raw cane output rose sharply from about 1.53 million tonnes to an estimated 3.33 million tonnes. This growth reflects renewed interest from both government and private investors, even as processing capacity remains a key constraint.

Officials at the council described the expansion as a structural shift in the geography of sugar production, driven largely by NSMP Phase Two. The programme targets domestic sugar output of two million tonnes annually by 2033 and is backed by projected investments of about 3.5 billion dollars across farms, mills and supporting infrastructure. Beyond sugar, the plan is designed to support ethanol production, electricity generation, job creation and long-term private sector participation.

At the launch of the Sugarcane Outgrower Development Programme, NSDC Executive Secretary and Chief Executive, Kamar Bakrin, said the initiative would be central to scaling up local cultivation, reducing import dependence and promoting inclusive growth by linking smallholder farmers to major processors. He emphasised the importance of rural participation in strengthening supply chains.

Further details from the Head of Outgrower Management, Mrs Lade Offurum, revealed that the programme will involve large-scale agribusiness operators, organised cooperatives and clusters of individual farmers. About 150,000 hectares nationwide have been identified for outgrower development to support sugar, ethanol, power and animal feed production.

Several states are emerging as hubs for sugar investment, including Niger, Kwara, Adamawa, Nasarawa, Bauchi, Taraba and Oyo. Despite rising cane output, industrial sugar production remains modest, with over 95 per cent of Nigeria’s sugar needs still met through imports. Analysts say the success of NSMP Phase Two will be critical to narrowing this gap and reducing exposure to global price volatility.

The development signals a major shift in the country’s agricultural trade policy.

Agriculture

Kenya has officially liberalised its sugar market following the expiry of the COMESA Sugar Safeguard on November 30, 2025, marking the end of 24 years of restricted imports and tariff protection for local sugar producers.

The development signals a major shift in the country’s agricultural trade policy and introduces a new era of regional competition within the sugar industry.

With the safeguard lifted, sugar imports from COMESA member states can now enter Kenya duty-free, exposing domestic millers to heightened competition at a time when the country continues to face a structural production shortfall. Kenya’s annual sugar consumption is estimated at approximately 1.1 million metric tonnes, while domestic production has increased to 815,454 metric tonnes. This leaves a persistent supply gap of close to 300,000 metric tonnes, which will continue to be filled through imports.

Recent industry data indicates notable progress in local production capacity. Sugarcane acreage has expanded by 19.4 per cent to 289,631 hectares, contributing to a 76 per cent increase in output since 2022. Despite these gains, several sugar mills are still undergoing rehabilitation and capacity upgrades following the leasing of previously state-owned factories to private investors, limiting short-term competitiveness.

The Kenya Sugar Board (KSB) has confirmed that sugar imports will be sourced from both COMESA and non-COMESA markets to ensure price stability and adequate supply. The Board cited inconsistent surplus availability within the regional bloc as a key reason for maintaining diversified sourcing options.

Market analysts project that the end of the safeguard will exert downward pressure on domestic sugar prices, benefiting consumers but intensifying operational and pricing pressures on local millers who are yet to fully optimise efficiency and scale. The open market environment is expected to reward producers with lower production costs and stronger supply chains.

The sector also faces emerging climate-related risks. Forecast dry spells could negatively affect sugarcane yields in the short term, potentially widening the existing supply deficit and increasing reliance on imports.

Kenya initially sought the COMESA safeguard in 2001 under the COMESA Free Trade Area to allow time for critical sector reforms. The protection was extended eight times, with progress assessed against agreed performance benchmarks by the COMESA Council of Ministers. Regulators have assured stakeholders that import monitoring and market coordination will continue as the industry adapts to a fully liberalised regional sugar trade framework.

African Farming

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Event News

The 2026 edition will take place from 24–26 March 2026. (Image credit: Hortiflora)

Event News

HortiFlora Ethiopia 2026 is set to return with even greater momentum, reflecting the rising global interest in Ethiopia’s flourishing horticulture and floriculture industry.

With its transition from a biennial format to an annual international trade show, the event aims to strengthen global connectivity, boost export opportunities, and further position Ethiopia as a leading producer of flowers, fruits, and vegetables on the world stage.

The venue for this major international event will be the Addis International Convention Center (AICC), located in Lemi Kura Sub City, Woreda 13, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia—an accessible and modern hub for global business gatherings.

Organised by HPP Worldwide, the highly respected global exhibition organiser, HortiFlora Ethiopia has grown remarkably over the past two decades, supported by the Ethiopian Horticulture Producers Exporters Association (EHPEA). Reflecting on the notable success of the 2025 edition, Dick Van Raamsdonk of HPP Worldwide shared:
“Given the increasing international interest and significance of the event, HortiFlora will now have a transition from a biennial trade show to an annual one.”

The 2025 edition, held from April 1–3, achieved outstanding results with a record 140 exhibitors, elegantly designed stands, and strong visitor turnout. Van Raamsdonk added, “It was a highly successful event, featuring a record-breaking 140 exhibitors, stunning stands, and a consistent flow of visitors, including a strong international presence, particularly from the Middle East.”

A key highlight this year was the expanded product showcase. “The inclusion of fruit and vegetable growers alongside the traditional floral exhibitors significantly expanded the event’s scope,” Van Raamsdonk explained. This diversification underscores Ethiopia’s growing export potential in fresh produce, making the exhibition a comprehensive platform for the entire horticultural value chain.

The decision to transition HortiFlora Ethiopia into an annual gathering reflects the sector’s increasing importance. Van Raamsdonk emphasised that more frequent engagement is vital to support innovation, strengthen trade relationships, and accelerate industry growth. He stated, “With Ethiopia’s rising production of fresh flowers, fruits, and vegetables, an annual event will further strengthen the country’s export potential, stimulate its economy, and foster continued growth in the horticultural sector’s employment.”

HortiFlora Ethiopia 2026 promises to offer global exhibitors and buyers an unmatched platform for networking, market insights, product showcases, and business expansion.

The fifth edition of the exhibition delivered strong participation, high-level networking and tangible outcomes for food security and agribusiness innovation across the MENA region.(Image Credit: VIV MEA)

Trade visitors can expect a rich mix of research insights.(Image credit: IPM ESSEN)

Livestock

ASF is one of the most serious diseases affecting pigs globally, with severe economic consequences for producers.

Pigs

UK pig producers are being strongly advised to review their biosecurity strategies and disease contingency plans following new outbreaks of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Spain.

While the immediate threat level to the UK has not changed, industry experts warn that the evolving ASF situation across Europe is a clear reminder of the need for constant preparedness.

Julian Sparrey, group technical director at Livetec Systems, said, “The cases in Spain are part of the ongoing ASF situation across Europe. They highlight the potential impact an outbreak could have here, and why producers must stay one step ahead of ASF and other disease threats.”

ASF is one of the most serious diseases affecting pigs globally, with severe economic consequences for producers. If the virus were detected in the UK, pig farms within designated restriction zones could face at least 40 days with no pig movements. Sparrey emphasises that producers must fully understand how such restrictions would affect pig flow, housing capacity, staffing levels and overall farm operations. He added, “Pressure-testing contingency plans now is critical to business resilience and to regaining disease freedom as quickly as possible.”

According to Sparrey, the most likely pathway for ASF to reach the UK remains contaminated, illegally imported or undeclared meat. As a result, producers are encouraged to reassess all possible on-farm transmission routes, including vehicle access, staff hygiene, visitor protocols, pig-to-pig contact and overall site layout.

“Effective biosecurity doesn’t always require major investment,” he explains. “Small, practical improvements can make a significant difference if they’re consistently applied.”

Wild boar populations and neighbouring pigs also pose a potential risk, particularly through nose-to-nose contact that can be difficult to monitor. “While ASF poses no risk to human health, it is highly contagious among pigs,” said Sparrey. “Measures such as double fencing to prevent incursions may be justified in higher-risk areas.”

Rare breed pig keepers are likewise urged to register their animals and maintain appropriate quarantine facilities, which could help reduce the likelihood of compulsory culling if circumstances permit.

Throughout the year, AHDB has worked alongside Livetec Systems and the National Pig Association (NPA) to deliver vet-led ASF preparedness workshops. Sparrey recommends external biosecurity audits to identify weak points. “It can be difficult to spot vulnerabilities on your own farm,” he says. “Regular biosecurity reviews allow producers to make steady improvements. We have time now and we should use it.”

Livestock Ministry supports women and youth in development agenda.

Crops

Ottevanger Services provides comprehensive support to feed producers. (Image credit: Ottevanger)

Agriculture

Triott Group has announced a major strategic step by bringing all its feed-related businesses together under a single, globally recognised name: Ottevanger.

With immediate effect, Ottevanger, Almex, Inteqnion, IVS Dosing Technology and Pelleting Technology Netherlands (PTN) will operate as one unified brand, reinforcing Ottevanger’s position as a leading global partner to the feed industry.

Based in Moerkapelle, the Netherlands, this consolidation represents a new chapter in Ottevanger’s long-term vision to provide complete, future-ready solutions for feed mills worldwide. By integrating these specialist companies under one name, customers benefit from a single point of contact, enhanced transparency and a more streamlined approach to project delivery and long-term collaboration.

The move also strengthens internal cooperation across disciplines, enabling Ottevanger to design and deliver tailored solutions that respond to the rapidly evolving demands of the global feed sector, including automation, digitalisation and sustainability.

Following the consolidation, Ottevanger now operates through four fully integrated business units, each designed to address both current operational challenges and future industry needs. Ottevanger Milling Engineers focuses on the design and construction of fully automated, turnkey feed mills, including both conventional and modular concepts. Ottevanger Process Solutions delivers high-quality equipment and advanced processes, supporting data-driven, fully automated milling from raw material intake through to packaging.

Meanwhile, Ottevanger Services provides comprehensive support to feed producers, including reliable on-site and remote maintenance, troubleshooting and spare parts supply. Completing the structure, the Ottevanger Development Centre looks to the future by optimising feed mill performance through practical research and development, testing and the creation of sustainable, next-generation solutions.

Commenting on the milestone, Director Ernst Jan Ottevanger said: “For more than a century, Ottevanger has been a family business, built on the finest Dutch quality and craftsmanship. Now we are formally extending our family to welcome these four trusted partners that have already contributed so much to our collective success based on the same shared values.” He added: “This is a significant moment for our company, but more importantly, for our customers worldwide. We are now far better placed to deliver the innovation and lifetime value they need to compete more effectively.”

Ottevanger will continue its close collaboration with Top Silo Constructions (TSC) to deliver advanced feed storage solutions, while TSC remains independent due to its diverse customer portfolio.

Crédit du Sahel is introducing innovative credit solutions that reflect the seasonal nature of agriculture.

This approach enables households to grow nutritious food, enhance soil health, and adapt more effectively to climate shocks.

Technology

Vicar sprayers are proving to be a formidable investment for South African farmers striving for smarter. (Image credit: Vicar)

Machinery & Equipment

European spraying innovation has taken a bold leap into the South African agriculture sector with the arrival of Vicar mist blower sprayers, a technology reshaping the way growers manage crop protection.

Developed over 40 years ago by Italian engineer Vincenzo Caroli in collaboration with LTS in Germany, this advanced sprayer design has become synonymous with intelligent airflow, high efficiency, and exceptional coverage. Now imported by Ikapa Trading in Grabouw, Vicar sprayers are fast becoming a favourite among farmers seeking smarter, faster, and more precise spraying solutions.

What sets the Vicar system apart is its pioneering radial turbine technology, which independent consultant Mike Heath who has witnessed decades of machinery evolution believes to be a game-changer. Unlike conventional axial flow sprayers that rely on propeller blades and lose speed as air moves through housings and deflectors, Vicar sprayers use a single turbine resembling a water wheel. This turbine sucks air in from both sides and moves it radially at a 90° angle, producing a consistent, high-velocity air stream.

The uniquely designed cast aluminium housing forces air through calibrated outlets only, resulting in a uniform exit speed of 250km/h to 280km/h at 540 PTO. Crucially, this system achieves optimal spray delivery while requiring up to two to three times less air volume than axial flow designs dramatically improving efficiency.

Vicar sprayers are also fitted with 360° rotating spray heads, each equipped with up to eight nozzles that move with the airflow for precise application. Heath explains that this makes every model adaptable: vineyards, orchards, tree crops, flowers, vegetables and dense plantations can all be targeted with outstanding coverage. The Vicar 540 reaches 12m per side and 25m in height, while the Vicar 450 covers 4m per side and up to 15m high ideal for vineyards and orchards. The 456 model enhances multirow spraying for modern high-density crops.

Vicar’s airflow control technology also allows operators to manipulate spray direction and prevent turbulence. Upper outlets can create an “air ceiling” to keep spray low for young crops, while lower outlets deliver targeted protection. With reduced drift up to 90% less environmental pollution, as tested by the Julius Kühn-Institut—Vicar ranks among the few sprayers meeting Germany’s strict regulations.

Heath adds that the sprayers’ ability to work faster at high air speeds means farmers can double their operational pace compared with axial fan sprayers. “Being able to work faster and spray multiple rows is allowing Vicar clients to substitute at least two conventional sprayers with one Vicar sprayer,” he notes.

Built for stability, especially on hilly terrain, Vicar’s trailed models feature double-axle frames, three-point linkage attachment, adjustable wheels and a short-turn system that improves manoeuvrability. Tanks include clean-water reservoirs for easy flushing, reducing contamination risks and enhancing longevity.

Despite being pricier than traditional sprayers, co-owner Neels Thiart says the machines pay for themselves quickly thanks to superior performance and durability. In Europe, their second-hand value remains exceptionally high: “In Europe you are able to sell one of these sprayers second-hand for almost the same price as you bought it,” he says.

With unmatched penetration, reduced drift, precision airflow and long-term value, Vicar sprayers are proving to be a formidable investment for South African farmers striving for smarter, more sustainable crop protection.

Kerchanshe Group management and McCormick Tractor executives. (Image credit: Kerchanshe Group)

The Braud 8.50L can empty directly into trailers up to 3m high, significantly reducing downtime and maximising each harvesting shift.(Image credit: New Holland)

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