In The Spotlight
The initiative's success reflects the combined efforts of partners, collaborators, and the farming community. (Image source: ICRISAT)
Powered by research and data from the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), farmers can quickly address numerous agricultural challenges by leveraging the strengths of the Plantix app's AI-driven diagnostics
Thanks to the seamless integration of technology and agricultural expertise, more than 30 million smallholder farmers in the semi-arid tropics have been empowered with real-time plant health management advice, significantly improving farming practices.
The initiative's success reflects the combined efforts of partners, collaborators, and the farming community. CEO of Plantix, Simone Strey extended gratitude to all stakeholders involved in the decade-long initiative, while also encouraging like-minded entities to join the mission of transforming agriculture through science and technology.
"We believe in the power of shared visions, combining science, innovation and technology to create effective solutions that truly benefit smallholder farmers,” stated director general of ICRISAT, Dr Jacqueline d’Arros Hughes. “Together, we have achieved over 30 million downloads of the Plantix app and analysed more than 100 million images, providing critical agricultural insights to millions of farmers worldwide.”
In recognition of the 10-year milestone, ICRISAT and Plantix also unveiled a commemorative brochure, 'Sowing a Seed of Change'. According to Dr Srikanth Rupavatharam, senior Scientist-Digital Agriculture, Global Research Programme for Resilient Farm and Food Systems at ICRISAT, the brochure which is a testament to a decade of dedication and progress serves as a catalyst for conversations within agricultural networks worldwide.
For more information, visit: https://plantix.net/en/
The signing took place at the US-Africa Business Summit in Dallas, Texas. (Image source: AFC)
Africa's leading infrastructure solutions provider, Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), is leading the commercial funding for a US$413mn package to finance the engineering, procurement and construction of 186 bridges and crucially needed enhancements to Angola’s road network
Initiated by the Ministry of Public Works, Urban Planning and Housing in Angola, the project aims to improve accessibility in remote areas and supports industrial and commercial activity, advancing prosperity by reducing transport costs and travel times, and easing poverty through job creation. The signing took place at the US-Africa Business Summit in Dallas, Texas, organised by the Corporate Council on Africa.
Improving road connectivity is particularly beneficial to the agricultural sector in producing and marketing much needed cereals for human food and animal feed and livestock, thereby providing a resolute response to increased food imports and fostering localisation of food chains.
“AFC is proud to work with the government and other partners on this landmark project which is set to transform the country’s road transportation infrastructure as Angola makes strides to diversify its economy away from oil,” said AFC board member and head of Financial Services, Sanjeev Gupta. “This project not only supports the country’s drive to make agriculture a foundation for economic growth, but it also prioritises the development of climate resilient infrastructure which contributes significantly to Angola’s climate adaptation plan.”
For more information, visit: https://www.africafc.org/
Dr Eckel's latest generation of the product, Anta Phyt NXT contains a higher quantity of active ingredients and has a broader spectrum of action. (Image source: Dr Eckel)
Dr Eckel has recently introduced the new generation of its phytogentic feed additive, Anta Phyt
As modern animal production continues to face multiple challenges, it is important to ensure that animal health, sustainable production methods and ecconomic profitability go hand in hand, while also minimising the use of medication without compromising health, growth, performance and product quality.
Prepared with uniquely effective hops as the main substance, Anta Phyt is an antibiotic-free plant-based solution that naturally supports intestinal health, strengthens the immune system and promotes animal performance by combatting gram-positive bacteria such as clostridia and Strep. suis.
Dr Eckel's latest generation of the product, Anta Phyt NXT contains a higher quantity of active ingredients and has a broader spectrum of action, thereby offering even more benefits for animal health and performance at the same dosage.
Some of the notable benefits of Anta Phyt NXT include:
- Effectiveness against gram-positive bacteria
- Supporting intestinal health and immune system
- Promoting growth and performance
- Improving feed conversion
- Reducing medication costs
- Promoting sustainable and healthy production
For more information, visit: https://www.dr-eckel.de/en/dr-eckel-animal-nutrition/
The most recent investment in Symaga's manufacturing site has strengthened the company's production process of the silo roof sectors. (Image source: Symaga)
Symaga's strong commitment to the preservation of its natural environment, has urged the company to increase the overall capacity of their solar plant from 200 kW up to 800 kW this year
Currently, 70% of all Symaga's manufacturing operations are being driven by their own generated green energy resources. The company is on the path to becoming more efficient, sustainable and competitive, with their medium-term goal being focused on shifting the entire production to their green supplies.
The most recent investment in Symaga's manufacturing site has strengthened the company's production process of the silo roof sectors, resulting in a 30% increase in productivity within the cutting and bending section. Symaga has acquired two new flattening-cutting and bending lines equipped with stiffening rollers to improve both the flattening and structural quality of their roof sectors. In order to absorb the increase in their cuttiing operations, a new robot cell for bending and packing roof sectors has been implemented.
This action is part of Symaga's Annual Investment Plan, which underlines their commitment to maintaining production and operational excellence, while also promoting environmental and occupational safety standards. These plans seek to improve the company's production capacity, a cornerstone of Symaga’s success, ensuring state of the art production supported by a team of 150 professionals, capable of handling projects from layout to after-sales.
For more information, visit: https://www.symaga.com/en/
Global category director – Cherries at TOMRA Food, Benedetta Ricci Iamino. (Image source: TOMRA)
After one full season with TOMRA LUCAi, three cherry growers who installed the technology confirmed that they benefitted from higher productivity; enhanced quality selection with consequent higher margins for their customers; along with reduced food waste
In 2023, TOMRA Food was in the final stages of development of its AI-powered LUCAi platform, ready to trial its innovation with customers in different conditions and regions – from California to New Zealand. After the 2023 cherry season, Prima Frutta decided to install LUCAi on all of their machines, for a total of 132 lanes for their upcoming 2024 cherry season.
Moreover, two long-standing customers–Dunstan Hills and Panmure Orchards–who have been running TOMRA equipment for almost 10 years, were also keen to implement the TOMRA LUCAi technology. The three cherry growers shared the challenge of meeting the growing demand, with consistent high-quality produce, in the short cherry season, which typically begins in mid-May and finishes at the end of June in California, while in New Zealand it runs from early to mid-December to late January.
“With LUCAi we achieved better grading and increased throughput of around 10% – and it is easy to use,” said Ian Nicholls, operations manager at Dunstan Hills, after one full season with TOMRA LUCAi.
LUCAi's user-friendly interface software makes it very easy for the customer’s operators to get the best sorting and grading performance from their processing line. Founder of Prima Frutta Packing, Tim Sambado explained that the technology not only allowed them to make changes, but also provided them with accurate data on how it was going to impact their grading before the change was applied. Nicholls also agreed that the technology made it significantly easier for the operator to refine decision-making and improve grading. This not only helps cherry packers deliver consistent quality and meet the specific requirements of their customers, but it also enables them to increase their productivity and address the short cherry season.
The technology for the InVision2 cherry grading platform is unique unique in that it comes with vast amounts of data collected by TOMRA in different regions across the world, building pre-trained models using real images of cherries. This means that it is ready to deliver its superior sorting and grading performance as soon as it is installed. It uses TOMRA’s Deep Learning technology to identify with unparalleled accuracy an extensive range of defects – from edge cracks, Pacman cherries, open sutures, cosmetic blemishes and stem pulls, to spurs, cracks and all defects around the stem; from dehydration to apical splits; and it will recognise colours in the ripe phase with precision.
Moreover, the platform also continues to evolve as it keeps learning from the data it collects while running in the customer’s operation, future-proofing their business. TOMRA’s service team remains at their side after installation, ready to proactively help them optimise their sorting and grading performance.
“Thanks to LUCAi, the era of compromise is a thing of the past for our customers,” summarised global category director – Cherries at TOMRA Food, Benedetta Ricci Iamino. "The commitment is crystal clear – our customers can now confidently expect their best fruit, in prime condition, reaching optimal markets, all at highly competitive prices."
For more information, visit: www.tomra.com
The report highlights Biome Makers’ commitment to sustainability and the innovative use of its BeCrop technology. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Global agtech company, Biome Makers release its 2023 Impact Report, which details the company's significant contributions to regenerative agriculture and soil health over the past year
The report highlights Biome Makers’ commitment to sustainability and the innovative use of its BeCrop technology. Key achievements highlighted in the report include:
● Enhanced Decision-Making: BeCrop technology provided actionable data that improved a return on investment upwards of 10 times for industry players.
● Reduced Environmental Impact: Implementation of BeCrop has contributed to a 15% reduction in carbon sequestration and a 20% reduction in the impact of agrochemicals across 56 countries.
● Innovative Updates: New updates to BeCrop technology have enabled more precise, data-driven product recommendations to improve the soil microbiome.
"We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support from our community and partners. Together, we are paving the way for a sustainable agricultural landscape where both our crops and soils can thrive," said the co-founders, Dr Alberto Acedo and Adrian Ferrero, in their joint letter.
In the future, Biome Makers Looking ahead, Biome Makers plans to scale the accessibility of its technology through API integration, fostering greater collaboration and enabling other organizations to leverage their data for deeper insights into soil health.
For more information, visit: https://biomemakers.com
This year, the primary focus lies on the theme of Digitalisation in the Agrifood business. (Image source: AgriBITs)
The new agritech innovations platform, AgriBITS recently announced the opening of visitor registration for the highly anticipated AgriBITs 2024 Summit
Scheduled to take place from 5-6 September in Jaarbeurs Venue in Utrecht, the event promises to be enlightening and engaging for all stakeholders in the agriculture and technology sectors.
This year, the primary focus lies on the theme of Digitalisation in the Agrifood business, ranging from AI implementation methods and tools to machinery transformation and bringing together experts, innovators, and thought leaders to explore the latest advancements and trends shaping the future of agriculture.
"This year's agenda is packed with insightful sessions, keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, providing attendees with a rich and versatile overview of the current landscape and future possibilities in agrofood technology," said Birgit Horn, managing director Agrifood at VNU Europe.
Early bird pricing is available until 25 May 25 2024, offering a significant discount for those who register early.
To register and learn more about the event, please visit https://agribits.nl/visit/registration/
This year, the primary focus lies on the theme of Digitalisation in the Agrifood business. (Image source: AgriBITs)
The new agritech innovations platform, AgriBITS recently announced the opening of visitor registration for the highly anticipated AgriBITs 2024 Summit
Scheduled to take place from 5-6 September in Jaarbeurs Venue in Utrecht, the event promises to be enlightening and engaging for all stakeholders in the agriculture and technology sectors.
This year, the primary focus lies on the theme of Digitalisation in the Agrifood business, ranging from AI implementation methods and tools to machinery transformation and bringing together experts, innovators, and thought leaders to explore the latest advancements and trends shaping the future of agriculture.
"This year's agenda is packed with insightful sessions, keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, providing attendees with a rich and versatile overview of the current landscape and future possibilities in agrofood technology," said Birgit Horn, managing director Agrifood at VNU Europe.
Early bird pricing is available until 25 May 25 2024, offering a significant discount for those who register early.
To register and learn more about the event, please visit https://agribits.nl/visit/registration/
Bank vice president Dr Beth Dunford, seen visiting a Bank-supported farmer in Ethiopia, is leading the Bank delegation to AFSH Summit. (Image source: AfDB)
In the setting of the Siam agricultural fair, a press conference to present EIMA 2024 was held on 24 April, in Meknés. (Image source: EIMA)
Dr Eckel's latest generation of the product, Anta Phyt NXT contains a higher quantity of active ingredients and has a broader spectrum of action. (Image source: Dr Eckel)
Dr Eckel has recently introduced the new generation of its phytogentic feed additive, Anta Phyt
As modern animal production continues to face multiple challenges, it is important to ensure that animal health, sustainable production methods and ecconomic profitability go hand in hand, while also minimising the use of medication without compromising health, growth, performance and product quality.
Prepared with uniquely effective hops as the main substance, Anta Phyt is an antibiotic-free plant-based solution that naturally supports intestinal health, strengthens the immune system and promotes animal performance by combatting gram-positive bacteria such as clostridia and Strep. suis.
Dr Eckel's latest generation of the product, Anta Phyt NXT contains a higher quantity of active ingredients and has a broader spectrum of action, thereby offering even more benefits for animal health and performance at the same dosage.
Some of the notable benefits of Anta Phyt NXT include:
- Effectiveness against gram-positive bacteria
- Supporting intestinal health and immune system
- Promoting growth and performance
- Improving feed conversion
- Reducing medication costs
- Promoting sustainable and healthy production
For more information, visit: https://www.dr-eckel.de/en/dr-eckel-animal-nutrition/
Given their expertise in feed formulation and nutritional testing, the AquaBioTech Group offered assistance to members of AZOFFA in developing their own aquafeeds. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Hill Group is one of the few fully automated poultry plants in East Africa. (Image source: Marel)
The initiative's success reflects the combined efforts of partners, collaborators, and the farming community. (Image source: ICRISAT)
Powered by research and data from the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), farmers can quickly address numerous agricultural challenges by leveraging the strengths of the Plantix app's AI-driven diagnostics
Thanks to the seamless integration of technology and agricultural expertise, more than 30 million smallholder farmers in the semi-arid tropics have been empowered with real-time plant health management advice, significantly improving farming practices.
The initiative's success reflects the combined efforts of partners, collaborators, and the farming community. CEO of Plantix, Simone Strey extended gratitude to all stakeholders involved in the decade-long initiative, while also encouraging like-minded entities to join the mission of transforming agriculture through science and technology.
"We believe in the power of shared visions, combining science, innovation and technology to create effective solutions that truly benefit smallholder farmers,” stated director general of ICRISAT, Dr Jacqueline d’Arros Hughes. “Together, we have achieved over 30 million downloads of the Plantix app and analysed more than 100 million images, providing critical agricultural insights to millions of farmers worldwide.”
In recognition of the 10-year milestone, ICRISAT and Plantix also unveiled a commemorative brochure, 'Sowing a Seed of Change'. According to Dr Srikanth Rupavatharam, senior Scientist-Digital Agriculture, Global Research Programme for Resilient Farm and Food Systems at ICRISAT, the brochure which is a testament to a decade of dedication and progress serves as a catalyst for conversations within agricultural networks worldwide.
For more information, visit: https://plantix.net/en/
The CHRONOS OMP-2090 B delivers maximum productivity through reliable, fully automatic operation, outstanding bagging accuracy and high product and operational safety. (Image source: Bühler)
SaliCrop’s seed innovation is bearing fruits of success in tomato cultivation: More yield and flavorful tomatoes. (Image source: Guy Shery)
The signing took place at the US-Africa Business Summit in Dallas, Texas. (Image source: AFC)
Africa's leading infrastructure solutions provider, Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), is leading the commercial funding for a US$413mn package to finance the engineering, procurement and construction of 186 bridges and crucially needed enhancements to Angola’s road network
Initiated by the Ministry of Public Works, Urban Planning and Housing in Angola, the project aims to improve accessibility in remote areas and supports industrial and commercial activity, advancing prosperity by reducing transport costs and travel times, and easing poverty through job creation. The signing took place at the US-Africa Business Summit in Dallas, Texas, organised by the Corporate Council on Africa.
Improving road connectivity is particularly beneficial to the agricultural sector in producing and marketing much needed cereals for human food and animal feed and livestock, thereby providing a resolute response to increased food imports and fostering localisation of food chains.
“AFC is proud to work with the government and other partners on this landmark project which is set to transform the country’s road transportation infrastructure as Angola makes strides to diversify its economy away from oil,” said AFC board member and head of Financial Services, Sanjeev Gupta. “This project not only supports the country’s drive to make agriculture a foundation for economic growth, but it also prioritises the development of climate resilient infrastructure which contributes significantly to Angola’s climate adaptation plan.”
For more information, visit: https://www.africafc.org/
The most recent investment in Symaga's manufacturing site has strengthened the company's production process of the silo roof sectors. (Image source: Symaga)
Global category director – Cherries at TOMRA Food, Benedetta Ricci Iamino. (Image source: TOMRA)
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The initiative's success reflects the combined efforts of partners, collaborators, and the farming community. (Image source: ICRISAT)
The signing took place at the US-Africa Business Summit in Dallas, Texas. (Image source: AFC)
Dr Eckel's latest generation of the product, Anta Phyt NXT contains a higher quantity of active ingredients and has a broader spectrum of action. (Image source: Dr Eckel)
The most recent investment in Symaga's manufacturing site has strengthened the company's production process of the silo roof sectors. (Image source: Symaga)
Global category director – Cherries at TOMRA Food, Benedetta Ricci Iamino. (Image source: TOMRA)
The report highlights Biome Makers’ commitment to sustainability and the innovative use of its BeCrop technology. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Given their expertise in feed formulation and nutritional testing, the AquaBioTech Group offered assistance to members of AZOFFA in developing their own aquafeeds. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
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The CHRONOS OMP-2090 B delivers maximum productivity through reliable, fully automatic operation, outstanding bagging accuracy and high product and operational safety. (Image source: Bühler)
SaliCrop’s seed innovation is bearing fruits of success in tomato cultivation: More yield and flavorful tomatoes. (Image source: Guy Shery)
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The signing took place at the US-Africa Business Summit in Dallas, Texas. (Image source: AFC)
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Global category director – Cherries at TOMRA Food, Benedetta Ricci Iamino. (Image source: TOMRA)
The report highlights Biome Makers’ commitment to sustainability and the innovative use of its BeCrop technology. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
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