Baader food systems Denmark A/S
MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company
Baldan Implementos Agricolas S.A.
DLG Service GmBh
African Farming

twitter linkedin acp contact

In The Spotlight

The Korean donation significantly comes as a time when hunger is on the rise in Sierra Leone due to numerous reasons. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Agriculture

The Republic of Korea has donated 11,520 MT of rice to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) as emergency aid to 81,600 Malian refugees and 287,000 school children across Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, and Sierra Leone 

High food costs, coupled with climate crisis, conflicts and insecurity in West Africa is driving food out of reach for vulnerable families in the region. Across the three countries, school meals represent a critical safety net for vulnerable families and provide a significant incentive for parents to keep their children in school, boosting attentiveness in class and mitigating student dropouts. As schools have attempted to go back to normality following the COVID-19 pandemic, nutritious school meals and take-home rations play a key role in maximising student retention in schools and improving children’s nutrition.

In Guinea Bissau, where economic and climate-related crises are driving hunger and malnutrition up, WFP will distribute 2,400 mt of rice to 180,000 children in 850 schools for four months, providing essential nutritional support to schoolchildren. In Mauritania,the Korean contribution will be used to complement general food assistance to 81,600 Malian Refugees in the Mbera refugee camp for 11 months. This contribution will be partially used to provide school meals to 7,700 refugee children and 46,800 children from the host communities for nine months from October 2024 to June 2025.

The contribution towards the refugee response complements the cash-based response, thereby enabling refugee families that are most vulnerable to receive a complete and diversified food basket, particularly during the June-September period when these groups are often forced to resort to adverse coping strategies to make ends meet. 

Indeed, the Korean donation significantly comes as a time when hunger is on the rise in Sierra Leone due to numerous reasons including economic fallout linked to the Ukraine crisis, broader macroeconomic decline and lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, among others. 

"I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations and deepest appreciation to the Republic of Korea for their unwavering commitment to humanitarian efforts and their dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of those in need,” said WFP’s country director & representative in Sierra Leone, Yvonne Forsen. “This act of generosity exemplifies the spirit of international cooperation and compassion that lies at the core of the World Food Programme mission."

A number of mechanisms have been established within the veterinary domain by the AU IBAR. (Image source: AU IBAR)

Event News

In an attempt to control the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in the South African region, the African Union InterAfrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) in collaboration with stakeholders from various organisations and member states attended a three-day sub-regional training workshop which took place from 30 July to 1 August at the Kingdom of Lesotho in South Africa

Organised by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and conducted under the umbrella of the Global Framework for progressive control of Transboundary Animal Diseases (GFTADs), the workshop focused on FMD epidemiology, diagnostics and surveillance for strengthening the control of this virus in the Southern Africa region.

During a presentation, the head of Animal Health Unit at AU IBAR, Dr Hiver Boussini emphasised the role of animal resources as being an important livelihood and commercial asset, particularly to rural communities which consititutes 70% of the African population. 

Among the numerous Transboundary Animal Diseases (TADs) and Zoonoses diseases that impact the African continent, Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is one of the most widely distributed diseases in the continent, with the Southern Africa region being the most adversely affected. 

To combat this issue, a number of mechanisms have been established within the veterinary domain by the AU IBAR. These include the Continental Animal Health Platform of Public and Private Actors (CAHP-AFRICA) which works on providing leadership in the implementation of Animal Health Actions, the African Association of Veterinary Education Establishments (2A2E-V) which spearheads reforms in veterinary education across the African continent and the African Association of Veterinary Statutory Bodies (2VSB) which co-ordinates reforms in veterinary regulation. 

The objective of these mechanisms is to strengthen the competencies of veterinary services for the implementation of the Standards Methods and Procedures in Animal Health Approach (SMP-AH) which in the long run will help in the prevention and controlling of Transboundary Animal Diseases in the African Union member states.

The focus on ventilation, structural integrity, and ease of handling reflects a dedication to humane treatment and high-quality outcomes. (Image source: Walker Poultry Trailers)

Machinery & Equipment

Leading provider of specialised transport solutions for the poultry industry, Walker Poultry Trailers, highlights the critical role that well-designed poultry trailers play in ensuring animal welfare during transport

Founder of Walker Poultry Trailers, Dwayne Walker emphasises the significance of using advanced poultry live haul trailers to maintain high standards of animal welfare. Properly designed poultry trailers are essential in minimising stress and ensuring the humane treatment of birds throughout the journey.

A number of factors including ventilation, structural integrity and stability and easy loading and unloading are all key features that promote animal welfare. Firstly, adequate ventilation is crucial for maintaining proper airflow within the trailer. This helps prevent heat stress and suffocation, especially in warm climates. Secondly, the design of poultry trailers must ensure the structural integrity and stability of the transport units. This includes sturdy construction, appropriate spacing, and secure enclosures to prevent injury and overcrowding. Thirdly, trailers with well-designed ramps, adjustable heights, and non-slip surfaces facilitate the safe movement of birds.

The use of specialised poultry trailers offers several benefits to poultry companies, particularly in terms of animal welfare and operational efficiency. Dwayne Walker notes that the primary goal is to ensure that birds arrive at their destination in good condition, which directly impacts the quality of the end product. 

By providing a stable and controlled environment, poultry trailers help reduce mortality rates during transport. This not only supports animal welfare but also minimises financial losses associated with bird fatalities. Maintaining optimal conditions during transport helps preserve the health and quality of the birds. This is crucial for poultry companies aiming to deliver high-quality products to the market. The use of advanced poultry trailers aligns with industry regulations and animal welfare standards, which is increasingly important as consumers and regulatory bodies demand higher standards of animal care. Efficient loading and unloading processes, coupled with reduced stress on birds, streamline operations and improve overall efficiency.

The focus on ventilation, structural integrity, and ease of handling reflects a dedication to humane treatment and high-quality outcomes. In conclusion, the role of poultry trailers in ensuring animal welfare during transport cannot be overstated. The right equipment not only safeguards the well-being of birds but also enhances the efficiency and reputation of poultry companies.

VIV Africa 2024
Subrato Sarkar

Read the Digital Magazine

Top Stories

Grid List

Event News

Attendees can expect to engage in insightful panel discussions, product demonstrations, workshops, and networking sessions. (Image source: NIAEXPO)

Event News

Designed to revolutionise agriculture focus on the region, NAIEXPO 2024 uilises state-of-the-art solutions and aims to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among farmers, researchers, policymakers and industry experts 

The sixth edition of the premier Nigeria's agri-event, NIAEXPO 2024 will provide a unique opportunity for participants to network, explore potential business opportunities and lean about the latest trends in the agriculture sector. The event offers an unparalleled opportunity for businesses that seek to tap into Nigeria's growing agricultural sector.

Given the region's rapidly growing population and increasing demand for food security, this expo provides a platform for companies to showcase their products and services to a targeted audience of industry professionals, stakeholders, and potential customers.

Exhibiting at NIAEXPO 2024 not only allows companies to stay ahead of industry trends, but also enables them to network with industry experts, and demonstrate their commitment to sustainable agriculture practices. It is a valuable opportunity to showcase innovations, technologies and solutions that can drive growth and efficiency in the agricultural value chain.

The event is scheduled to take place from 27-29 August at the Abuja Trade & Conventon Centre, FCT in Abuja, Nigeria.

A number of mechanisms have been established within the veterinary domain by the AU IBAR. (Image source: AU IBAR)

Each day will focus on a different topic. (Image source: IPM ESSEN)

Livestock

Experts verify Infectious Bronchitis Virus in Ghana's poultry industry. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Poultry

Scientists at the Veterinary Service Department and the CSIR – Animal Research Institute have confirmed IBV in Ghana’s poultry industry

The IBV impacts the respiratory, reproductive, and renal systems of chickens, leading to severe economic repercussions. Originating in the USA during the 1930s, IBV has since spread globally, including sub-Saharan Africa, with Ghana being notably affected. Despite the significant presence of IBV, vaccination against the virus in Ghana is not practiced, complicating efforts to control its spread.

Samples collected by scientists at the Veterinary Service Department and the CSIR – Animal Research Institute from farms across nine regions revealed the presence of IBV, a coronavirus causing significant economic losses. The virus leads to reduced poultry output, lower egg production, and a 5% mortality rate.

In a Channel One News interview during a stakeholders' workshop in Koforidua, Senior Research Scientists at the Animal Research Institute, Dr Matilda Ayim Akonnor and Dr Theophilus Odoom discussed their findings on IBV's prevalence, serotypes, and pathotypes in Ghana. They highlighted that IB (Infectious Bronchitis) is a major factor behind the closure of many poultry farms in the country.

Dr Akonnor stated, “Indeed, we have confirmed that the virus is present in all nine regions we visited. We have taken samples, analysed some, and confirmed the virus’s presence. We have also identified the serotype that is circulating around the country from outbreak investigations, and we hope to use this information to develop a vaccination schedule for the country’s poultry farmers.”

Feed the Future Innovation Lab team members currently or formerly associated with Iowa State's Department of Animal Science. (Image source: Iowa State University)

Since its introduction in 2018, the Hubbard Efficiency Plus has been confirmed as the breed of choice for the Kenyan market. (Image source: Hubbard)

Crops

Vertical farming offers a sustainable alternative that allows farmland to recover while enhancing urban living. (Image source: Go Vilnius)

Agriculture

With agriculture being a major driver of climate change, the European Union (EU) is promoting a green transition through continent-wide initiatives including the adoption of sustainable technology in agriculture

Through continent-wide initiatives, Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania is striving for climate neutrality by 2030. Alternative farming methods like vertical farming for example, are being adopted to help the city meet its environmental protection goals. 

Valentinas Civinskas, CEO of Leafood, Europe's largest vertical farm emphasised that agricultural practices are shifting not only in Lithuania but throughout entire Europe. A number of technologies including AI-driven crop management, renewable energy integration, and sustainable water management are being adopted to enhance agriculture. 

Leafood's vertical farm is located in an industrial zone of the capital and grows greens in areas that are not suitable for traditional farming methods. The presence of the farm within the urban limits enables the reduction of the supply chain and CO2 emissions. Significantly bringing down the environmental strain directly contributes to achieving the goals of the Nature Restoration Law, which aims to restore 90% of the EU's land by 2050. 

“Vertical farming allows for greens to be grown in stacked layers within controlled indoor facilities. This reduces the need for vast tracts of land and alleviates the environmental strain associated with conventional farming methods,” Civinskas explained. 

Leafood also uses up to 95% less water than traditional farms and 100% renewable energy to reduce the detrimental impact on the environment. Civinskas asserts that the continuous expansion of the talent pool is one of the most significant drivers in sustainable businesses, especially those operating in agriculture. For Vilnius, the supply of talent is essential for continuous innovation and emphasis on sustainability. In addition to sustainable practices, Civinskas emphasised the importance of a positive work environment.

 

 

The event’s high turnout underscored the importance of the President’s address, as anticipation and optimism filled the air. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

The Korean donation significantly comes as a time when hunger is on the rise in Sierra Leone due to numerous reasons. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Technology

Fully automated cherry truss tomato harvesting robot 'Artemy.' (Image source: DENSO)

Machinery & Equipment

DENSO CORPORATION and its group company, Certhon Build BV have designed an innovative robot that can perform a series of cherry truss tomato harvesting tasks in a fully automatic manner

The fully automated cherry truss tomato harvesting robot, Artemy can perform a series of cherry truss tomato harvesting tasks:

  • Automatic Harvesting Function: It automatically runs on a running lane and uses AI to determine the ripeness of cherry truss tomatoes. Only ripe tomatoes are selected, and cherry truss tomato peduncles are cut using scissors attached to the top of the harvesting robot arm and stored in the loaded crates.
  • Automatic Lane Change Function: Artemy uses sensing technology to recognise obstacles in the path and the running lane to which it is traveling so it can move safely and accurately to adjacent running lanes even in trackless environment. 
  • Automatic Crates Replacement: Artemy automatically replaces a full crate.
  • Automatic Crates Transfer: When all six crates are loaded, Artemy automatically moves to the trolley where the empty crates are placed and replaces all the crates at once. 

Since Artemy has replaceable batteries, it can run for longer periods without down time for charging. It is also equipped with a cluster and a peduncle detection LED to achieve a highly accurate harvest under direct sunlight during the day and under supplemental lighting during the night. These functions enable continuous operation throughout the day and night, helping increase operational efficiency, address potential labour shortages and significantly reduce heavy work for farmers.

“DENSO's expertise in mobility and manufacturing, encompassing image recognition, safe driving, and robotics, is integrated into all of Artemy's operations, from the automatic harvesting of cherry truss tomato to the automatic lane changes," said DENSO's senior executive officer in charge of the Food Value Chain Business Development Division, Hidehiro Yokoo. "Going forward, DENSO will continue to combine its technology with Certhon's cultivation know-how and horticulture technology to achieve the stable production that DENSO and Certhon aim for worldwide, making it possible for ‘Growing anything, anywhere. For everyone.'”

The focus on ventilation, structural integrity, and ease of handling reflects a dedication to humane treatment and high-quality outcomes. (Image source: Walker Poultry Trailers)

Oxfam CNH project in Tunisia. (Image source: CNH)

Most Read

The focus on ventilation, structural integrity, and ease of handling reflects a dedication to humane treatment and high-quality outcomes. (Image source: Walker Poultry Trailers)

Fully automated cherry truss tomato harvesting robot 'Artemy.' (Image source: DENSO)

NOVACAT V 9200 CF for perfect swath placement. (Image source: Pöttinger)

A successful end to growth and maturation of the bulb onion crop. (Image source: Omex)

The Korean donation significantly comes as a time when hunger is on the rise in Sierra Leone due to numerous reasons. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

A presentation by the owner of Hemp 4 Life in February highlighted the challenges being faced by the small-scale cannabis and hemp farming industry. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Both the Solitair and the Zirkon rotary harrow will be available in series production from 2025. (Image source: LEMKEN)

The Axial-Flow 260 series offers the new ActiveTrac four-roller hydraulic suspended track system having a larger footprint. (Image source: Case IH)

Experts verify Infectious Bronchitis Virus in Ghana's poultry industry. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Latest news

Vertical farming offers a sustainable alternative that allows farmland to recover while enhancing urban living. (Image source: Go Vilnius)

The event’s high turnout underscored the importance of the President’s address, as anticipation and optimism filled the air. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Fully automated cherry truss tomato harvesting robot 'Artemy.' (Image source: DENSO)

The Korean donation significantly comes as a time when hunger is on the rise in Sierra Leone due to numerous reasons. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

The focus on ventilation, structural integrity, and ease of handling reflects a dedication to humane treatment and high-quality outcomes. (Image source: Walker Poultry Trailers)

A presentation by the owner of Hemp 4 Life in February highlighted the challenges being faced by the small-scale cannabis and hemp farming industry. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Oxfam CNH project in Tunisia. (Image source: CNH)

Both the Solitair and the Zirkon rotary harrow will be available in series production from 2025. (Image source: LEMKEN)

A successful end to growth and maturation of the bulb onion crop. (Image source: Omex)

Expected battery cycles required per machine lifetime. (Image source: IDTechEx)

Lubing System
Aviagen Ltd

Agrovar partners with Biome Makers to support Bulgarian farmers

Bulgarian agtech company Agrovar will adopt Biome Makers’ BeCrop technology to support farmers to transition to regenerative agriculture

BeCrop is an independent soil intelligence platform that provides farmers with insights on how management practices impact the soil microbiome. Agrovar will offer BeCrop Test, a service specially designed to help farmers understand the biological dimension of the soil and how this impacts crop yield and quality. 

“We are thrilled to embrace BeCrop technology and integrate it into our services, enabling us to provide valuable insights on the soil microbiome to our customers,” said Boris Koev, co-founder of Agrovar. “It is exciting that we are now able to get a further understanding of the processes in the soil and to upgrade the ‘conventional’ soil laboratory analysis, which provides us with data on the soil state.”

Biome Makers’ BeCrop technology combines advanced genomics, microbial networks, and machine learning to provide insights into specific functions being performed by the entire soil microbiome. With the largest global taxonomic database of microorganisms and an advanced functional and ecological model, BeCrop is an essential product development and recommendation tool. BeCrop technology is used by farmers, crop advisors, researchers, retailers, and input companies in more than 45 countries analysing more than 170 crops.  

“Europe's agriculture is facing a crisis caused by war, inflation, and unfavourable weather. Thus, it is crucial for all countries to employ technology in planting and producing crops sustainably to enhance productivity and promote regenerative agriculture,” added Diego Moreno, head of sales, Europe. “BeCrop will play a critical role in Bulgaria to support farmers and agronomists with soil biology insights and help them make decisions to increase that productivity and save money by adjusting farm costs.” 

 

More Articles