In The Spotlight
Initiatives like Namibia’s entry into the AfCFTA are crucial as they pave the way towards a future where hunger is eradicated across the continent. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
As the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) opens up new trade corridors, Namibia continues to expand its outreach to West and Central African nations, creating alternative revenue streams for farmers
As these trade corridors open up, Namibia is creating alternative revenue streams for farmers by expanding its outreach to West and Central African nations. Investments in value-added processing for crops like grapes and dates are gaining momentum, ensuring that Namibian agricultural products can meet the quality standards required in diverse markets across the continent.
As the African Council commit to the UN Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger by 2030, initiatives like Namibia’s entry into the AfCFTA are crucial as they pave the way towards a future where hunger is eradicated across the continent. Its ripple effect can also be felt in the broader Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. The AfCFTA presents a significant opportunity for South Africa to diversify its export markets within Africa, ensuring continued economic growth and stability.
Looking ahead at the upcoming Market Access Africa 2025 that is scheduled to take place from 1-4 June in Durban, South Africa, Namibia'sx progress serves as an inspiring example. Bringing together over 800 participants, more than 40 speakers, and over 50 exhibitors from more than 40 countries, this event will provide a platform to explore these opportunities, address challenges, as well as discuss Africa’s evolving agricultural trade landscape.
MAA 2025 aims to accelerate Africa’s trade and investment opportunities. (Image source: Market Access Africa)
Market Access Africa (MAA) 2025 offers a crucial platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and business development and is set to take place from 1-4 June at the Durban International Convention Centre in South Africa, this year
With the aim of unlocking new regional and global markets, boosting agro-processing and strengthening Africa's position in international trade, MAA 2025 will bring together leading agribusinesses, policymakers, investors, and buyers from across the food and agriculture value chain to accelerate Africa’s trade and investment opportunities.
Hosted by the African Agri Council (AAC), the event will focus on enhancing agricultural trade, fostering strategic partnerships, and driving investment into value-added production to reduce Africa’s dependence on raw commodity exports.
Event highlights include plenary sessions and conferences featuring industry leaders, policymakers, and trade experts tackling the biggest challenges in African agriculture. It also focuses on youth empowerment by promoting platforms like the Agri Youth Indaba and the 40 Under 40 Awards Dinner to encourage young entrepreneurs and celebrate young leaders shaping the future of African agriculture. Roundtable dialogues will give attendees an opportunity to interact with CEOs, policymakers, and industry experts, while workshops and live demos will showcase the latest agritech innovations, solutions and technologies. The Buyers Programme will also connect African suppliers with pre-vetted international buyers, ensuring high-value trade deals.
“Africa’s agricultural sector holds immense promise, but without improved market access, that potential remains untapped. Market Access Africa is about breaking down barriers, creating opportunities, and positioning Africa as a global powerhouse in agricultural trade,” said Ben Leyka, CEO of the African Agri Council. “Durban provides the perfect location for this event, offering world-class infrastructure, direct access to global shipping routes, and a strong."
Governor Kefas has urged stakeholders to harness the momentum of the ACReSAL project. (Image source: ACReSAL)
The Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Day celebration, held in the state capital, marked a major milestone in the state’s journey towards climate-resilient agriculture, as Governor Dr Agbu Kefas launched three groundbreaking initiatives under the ACReSAL project
At the heart of the celebration were three critical initiatives designed to empower Taraba farmers and promote climate-smart agriculture. The first two initiative involves the distribution of climate-smart farm inputs and tractors, which will enable farmers to enhance production and build resilience against climate change. The third initiative focuses on the presentation of Community Resolving Funds (CRF) to dedicated farmers and community leaders.
Governor Kefas expressed his gratitude to the World Bank and the Federal Project Management team for their dedication, expertise, and robust support, while reiterating the state’s vision for a future where sustainable agriculture fuels economic growth, every farmer has the opportunity to prosper, and innovative practices become the norm.
Dr Joy Iganya Agene, task team leader of the ACReSAL project and senior environmental specialist, expressed her delight at the significant progress made by Taraba State in the ACReSAL project. This progress has propelled the state to stage two of project implementation. She urged beneficiaries to utilise the proceeds from the Community Revolving Funds (CRF) disbursement for climate-smart activities. Dr Agene also encouraged communities to harness their abundant natural resources to combat the challenges posed by climate change.
As Taraba State deepens its collaboration with the World Bank, Governor Kefas has urged stakeholders to harness the momentum of the ACReSAL project, which is a key initiative among the various proactive steps taken by the state government to address environmental issues.
Sudan, the Philippines and Malawi made notable contributions to the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
More than 14,000 seed samples from 21 genebanks were deposited in the Svalbard Global Seed Vault last month
These samples included essential varieties of sorghum and pearl millet from Sudan’s crop genebank; a collection of velvet beans from Malawi; and critical food crops from a Philippine gene bank that is being destroyed by typhoons and fires. Brazil, the host of this year’s global climate negotiations, also deposited a major collection of more than 3,000 varieties of rice, beans and maize.
Following the deposit ceremony, the first-ever Svalbard International Dialogue brought together high-level government officials, crop experts and global thought leaders to discuss the challenge of safeguarding crop diversity amid increasing environmental pressures and escalating global conflicts.
Sudan’s contribution
Sudan made its sixth deposit of seed samples of 15 species, including many varieties of sorghum, a crop that is deeply tied to Sudanese cultural heritage, and is also a lifeline for food security in the country. With the help of the Emergency Reserve for Genebanks, hundreds of seed samples that were impacted during the civil war, were transported to NordGen to be sorted catalogued, packed and documented as part of the Sudanese deposit. These were then transported to the Svalbard Global Seed Vault.
The Philippines’ contribution
After several seed stocks were destroyed by natural extreme events like typhoons and fires, partners from the Philippines with support from the BOLD Project, visited Svalbard to deposit seeds of eggplant, rice bean, lima bean and sorghum.
Malawi’s contribution
Being another BOLD partner, Malawi deposited velvet beans, a crop that enables farmers to boost production and keep their soils healthy, while also offering important medicinal benefits. Velvet beans are a nitrogen-fixing legume that when used as a fertiliser can more than double maize yields. The species, which is also used in traditional medicine, boasts high levels of levodopa, a compound used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
“This moment is a powerful reminder that securing our food future requires collective action,” said Stefan Schmitz, executive director of the Crop Trust. “Through our partnerships, including the BOLD project, we’ve worked with institutions around the world to safeguard vital crop diversity.” He further highlighted how the deposited seeds represented not only biodiversity, but also the knowledge, culture and resilience of the communities that steward them. “We must find a way to protect this crop diversity for generations to come,” Schmitz added.
To avert a major crisis in Somalia, the WFP is calling for urgent funding to mitigate the impacts of the expected drought. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Alarming new data shows that worsening drought conditions, conflict and high food prices are likely to push one million more people into food insecurity in Somalia
According to the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis, 3.4 million people are already experiencing crisis-levels of hunger, with the number expected to rise 4.4 million between April and June this year. Moreover, around 1.7 million children under the age of five are expected to face acute malnutrition through December 2025, due to below-average rainfall forecast for this period.
Among those hardest hit are households with low agricultural yields who have depleted their food stocks, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and pastoralists with limited livestock and below-average earnings from livestock sales.
A drastic increase in humanitarian needs and subsequent shortfall in fundings is forcing the WFP to cut-short food and cash assistance as well as some life-saving programmes such as school meal arrangements for students. With a funding gap of US$297mn and no additional funding expected in the next six months, WFP operations in Somalia are threatened by pipeline breaks by mid-year.
To avert a major crisis in Somalia, the WFP is calling for urgent funding to scale up food assistance, nutrition support, water and sanitation services, as well as livelihood initiatives to mitigate the impacts of the expected drought.
The model uses the factorial approach to estimate the sow’s ultimate requirements. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
At the request of the animal feed industry, project leader Christiaan Buitink along with a pig researcher, Benthem de Grave developed the SowModel, by collecting input data using available manuals and scientific literature on the nutritional needs of sows in different life stages
The model uses the factorial approach to estimate the sow’s ultimate requirements for net energy, SID lysine, available calcium and digestible phosphorus. A number of factors including litter number and condition, development of the sow, feed composition and intake, litter size, weaning age, birth and weaning weight of the piglets, ambient temperature and straw usage are taken into consideration.
SowModel also provides users the option to calculate two scenarios side by side. For example, the needs of a first litter and an older sow can be easily compared, with results being displayed both graphically as well as in tabular form. These needs can then be directly compared with the applied feed amount and composition.
Using the table, users can estimate the extent to which the feed used meets the needs of the sow on each day of gestation or lactation. This enables users to make targeted choices and to adjust the feeding schedule, feed composition, stable climate or management on the sow farm where necessary to improve the zootechnical results, but also animal health and welfare.
The SowModel, which currently works as an Excel calculation tool, and is available in seven different languages, can soon be accessed via the SFR website in the near future.
BetaTrace has been built by combing betaine and organic trace minerals. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
BetaTrace is a notable source of organic zinc, copper, manganese and iron designed for every animal species
It was introduced in early November last year and is pending a patent. Being a supporter of animal well being and performance, BetaTrace aims to identify and address the issues concerning modern livestock farming. It performs a variety of useful functions which includes boosting gut integrity, improving immunity, reducing oxidative stress and enhancing energy metabolism. Moreover, being water soluble, it finds ideal usage in vitamin-mineral premixes, compound feeds, or feed supplements.
BetaTrace has been built by combing betaine and organic trace minerals, in turn providing improved absorption compared to conventional inorganic trace mineral sources such as sulfates. While trace minerals serve as essential components or cofactors of numerous enzymes, vitamins, and hormones, betaine on the other hand, provides excellent methyl group donor capability that is particularly needed in protein and lipid metabolism.
“We worked hard to bring this next generation of trace minerals to life,” said Dr Susanne Rothstein, product manager Organic Minerals at Biochem. “We believe the two-in-one BetaTrace will greatly benefit high yielding and young animals, which often have higher metabolic requirements. The perfect match of binding partner and trace mineral in BetaTrace intensively supports performance and health.”
MAA 2025 aims to accelerate Africa’s trade and investment opportunities. (Image source: Market Access Africa)
Market Access Africa (MAA) 2025 offers a crucial platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and business development and is set to take place from 1-4 June at the Durban International Convention Centre in South Africa, this year
With the aim of unlocking new regional and global markets, boosting agro-processing and strengthening Africa's position in international trade, MAA 2025 will bring together leading agribusinesses, policymakers, investors, and buyers from across the food and agriculture value chain to accelerate Africa’s trade and investment opportunities.
Hosted by the African Agri Council (AAC), the event will focus on enhancing agricultural trade, fostering strategic partnerships, and driving investment into value-added production to reduce Africa’s dependence on raw commodity exports.
Event highlights include plenary sessions and conferences featuring industry leaders, policymakers, and trade experts tackling the biggest challenges in African agriculture. It also focuses on youth empowerment by promoting platforms like the Agri Youth Indaba and the 40 Under 40 Awards Dinner to encourage young entrepreneurs and celebrate young leaders shaping the future of African agriculture. Roundtable dialogues will give attendees an opportunity to interact with CEOs, policymakers, and industry experts, while workshops and live demos will showcase the latest agritech innovations, solutions and technologies. The Buyers Programme will also connect African suppliers with pre-vetted international buyers, ensuring high-value trade deals.
“Africa’s agricultural sector holds immense promise, but without improved market access, that potential remains untapped. Market Access Africa is about breaking down barriers, creating opportunities, and positioning Africa as a global powerhouse in agricultural trade,” said Ben Leyka, CEO of the African Agri Council. “Durban provides the perfect location for this event, offering world-class infrastructure, direct access to global shipping routes, and a strong."
The International Congress on Biosolutions will take place over three days during Macfrut. (Image source: Macfrut)
NOVUS experts will provide insights into the biological and economic impacts of milk fat depression. (Image source: NOVUS)
The model uses the factorial approach to estimate the sow’s ultimate requirements. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
At the request of the animal feed industry, project leader Christiaan Buitink along with a pig researcher, Benthem de Grave developed the SowModel, by collecting input data using available manuals and scientific literature on the nutritional needs of sows in different life stages
The model uses the factorial approach to estimate the sow’s ultimate requirements for net energy, SID lysine, available calcium and digestible phosphorus. A number of factors including litter number and condition, development of the sow, feed composition and intake, litter size, weaning age, birth and weaning weight of the piglets, ambient temperature and straw usage are taken into consideration.
SowModel also provides users the option to calculate two scenarios side by side. For example, the needs of a first litter and an older sow can be easily compared, with results being displayed both graphically as well as in tabular form. These needs can then be directly compared with the applied feed amount and composition.
Using the table, users can estimate the extent to which the feed used meets the needs of the sow on each day of gestation or lactation. This enables users to make targeted choices and to adjust the feeding schedule, feed composition, stable climate or management on the sow farm where necessary to improve the zootechnical results, but also animal health and welfare.
The SowModel, which currently works as an Excel calculation tool, and is available in seven different languages, can soon be accessed via the SFR website in the near future.
BetaTrace has been built by combing betaine and organic trace minerals. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The camel thorn tree grows naturally and requires minimal agronomic inputs, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to conventional grain-based feeds. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Initiatives like Namibia’s entry into the AfCFTA are crucial as they pave the way towards a future where hunger is eradicated across the continent. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
As the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) opens up new trade corridors, Namibia continues to expand its outreach to West and Central African nations, creating alternative revenue streams for farmers
As these trade corridors open up, Namibia is creating alternative revenue streams for farmers by expanding its outreach to West and Central African nations. Investments in value-added processing for crops like grapes and dates are gaining momentum, ensuring that Namibian agricultural products can meet the quality standards required in diverse markets across the continent.
As the African Council commit to the UN Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger by 2030, initiatives like Namibia’s entry into the AfCFTA are crucial as they pave the way towards a future where hunger is eradicated across the continent. Its ripple effect can also be felt in the broader Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. The AfCFTA presents a significant opportunity for South Africa to diversify its export markets within Africa, ensuring continued economic growth and stability.
Looking ahead at the upcoming Market Access Africa 2025 that is scheduled to take place from 1-4 June in Durban, South Africa, Namibia'sx progress serves as an inspiring example. Bringing together over 800 participants, more than 40 speakers, and over 50 exhibitors from more than 40 countries, this event will provide a platform to explore these opportunities, address challenges, as well as discuss Africa’s evolving agricultural trade landscape.
Governor Kefas has urged stakeholders to harness the momentum of the ACReSAL project. (Image source: ACReSAL)
Sudan, the Philippines and Malawi made notable contributions to the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The technology is designed for simple and efficient application, at speeds of up to 25 mph. (Image source: CNH)
Case IH recently launched the new SenseApply technology, purposefully designed to maximise the output of every input
Comprising a single cab-mounted camera system, the technology is an economical and adaptable automated Live variable rate application solution that offers multi-season uses for unmatched versatility and productivity without compromising quality or functionality. It has various multi-application uses including:
- Selective spray: This includes a one-time activation fee eliminating both per acre fees and annual fees for the life of the device. It offers two options – the Green-on-Brown Spot Spray offering upgraded weed management and the Base + Boost option that applies a consistent base rate over the entire boom while boosting individual nozzle sections to a higher rate when passing over areas with higher weed pressure.
- Live Variable Rate Application (VRA): This includes lifetime Live VRA use and offers five options – Burndown VRA, Nitrogen VRA, Harvest Aid VRA, Plant Growth Regulator VRA and Fungicide VRA.
The technology is designed for simple and efficient application, at speeds of up to 25 mph, with the camera self-calibrating to the crop within the first 150 ft during Live VRA. The SenseApply camera – which is mounted on top of the cab to maximise field of view – senses plant biomass and responds accordingly, depending on the application type the operator selected.
SenseApply also integrates with Case IH FieldOps and Raven Slingshot, enabling operators to connect and manage application data through their preferred platform. This integration increases overall operator efficiencies by providing real-time data analysis and decision-making capabilities, while making it easier to align with agronomist recommendations. The technology's multi-purpose functionality enables operators to use it throughout the year irrespective of the seasons.
“SenseApply offers unparalleled flexibility, with a range of application methods that were previously unavailable in a single solution,” said application equipment customer segmentation lead at Case IH, Leo Bose. “It is also a cost-effective solution with no annual subscriptions or per acre fees, driving efficiency and profitability for a grower.”
Biome Makers has announced integrations is enabling farmers to bridge the gap between soil biology and digital farming. (Image source: Biome Makers)
Through AGRIMAX SPARGO SB, BKT aims to offer farmers an advanced solution that addresses the specific challenges of row crops and spraying operations. (Image source: BKT)
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Initiatives like Namibia’s entry into the AfCFTA are crucial as they pave the way towards a future where hunger is eradicated across the continent. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Governor Kefas has urged stakeholders to harness the momentum of the ACReSAL project. (Image source: ACReSAL)
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To avert a major crisis in Somalia, the WFP is calling for urgent funding to mitigate the impacts of the expected drought. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The model uses the factorial approach to estimate the sow’s ultimate requirements. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
BetaTrace has been built by combing betaine and organic trace minerals. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The technology is designed for simple and efficient application, at speeds of up to 25 mph. (Image source: CNH)
The camel thorn tree grows naturally and requires minimal agronomic inputs, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to conventional grain-based feeds. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The study authors suggested that the Rumin8 oil IVP had the potential to reduce enteric methane emissions. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
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