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In The Spotlight

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

Event News

From 27 to 30 January, IPM ESSEN 2026 will once again position itself as the world’s leading horticulture trade fair, delivering an inspiring, future-focused programme across three specialist stages at Messe Essen.

Trade visitors can expect a rich mix of research insights, hands-on expertise and cutting-edge innovation at the Gardeners Forum (Hall 2), the Innovation Center Horticultural Technology (Hall 4) and the brand-new Woodland Arena (Hall 7).

Knowledge and market trends at the Gardeners Forum

The Gardeners Forum remains a key knowledge hub, tackling the most pressing issues shaping modern horticulture. Topics such as energy efficiency, CO₂ reduction, sustainable propagation systems, Gen Z consumer trends and artificial intelligence in global supply chains will take centre stage. Highlights include Fred Kruisselbrink’s sessions on energy efficiency strategies, Floris Tas’ presentation on the substrate-free rooting system ‘RCS 2.0’, and Leon Hünting’s talk, ‘Customers of the future: How we as breeders prepare our partners for Gen Z’.

A panel discussion will explore how Fairtrade is empowering women in global cut flower supply chains, while Oboya CEO Robert Wu will share insights into AI-driven supply chain optimisation. Additional contributions come from leading names such as Bailey Nurseries, Florensis, Landgard and Ulmer Verlag.

Digitalisation and technology in Hall 4

In the Innovation Center Horticultural Technology, the spotlight is firmly on digitalisation, automation and climate-smart solutions. Visitors can discover digital pest detection from PurPest, peat substitute strategies from Gramoflor, and bio-based polymers presented by NTIC Europe. One standout session promises new approaches to urban greening through biochar substrates and satellite-based monitoring, highlighting measurable climate impact. Universities, research institutes and tech pioneers round out a highly practical, innovation-driven agenda.

Trees, cities and climate resilience in the Woodland Arena

New for 2026, the Woodland Arena addresses urban greenery, sustainable trees and climate adaptation. Expert talks cover biodiversity, flood-resilient plants, future urban trees and climate-resilient city planning. Sessions such as ‘Urban trees under stress – water availability, tree health and tree growth in urban environments’ underline the urgency of nature-based solutions for greener cities.

With its continuously updated programme, IPM ESSEN 2026 promises four days of inspiration, networking and forward-thinking ideas shaping the future of global horticulture.

Nasarawa launches NASACCO gold rice.

Agriculture

Nasarawa State has officially commenced production of “NASACCO Gold Rice” through the Nasarawa State Agro Commodity Company (NASACCO), a move aimed at strengthening food security and promoting agricultural value addition in the region.

Governor Abdullahi Sule commissioned the initiative during an event in Lafia on Tuesday, emphasising its potential to enhance both state and national food stability.

The initiative is a collaborative effort with Silvex International, a leading rice-processing company in Nigeria. Governor Sule explained that Silvex has sourced rice paddy from state-owned farms located in Jangwa and Agwatashi communities within the Awe and Obi Local Government Areas. The harvested rice will be processed and branded as “NASACCO Gold Rice,” providing a distinctive, high-quality product for consumers.

“This will boost food security, attract investment, and implement strategies for sustainable agriculture,” Governor Sule stated, highlighting the broader economic and agricultural benefits of the programme. He also noted that the initiative aligns with the federal government’s Renewed Hope policy on agriculture, which promotes private sector participation, value addition, and inclusive growth.

Governor Sule further revealed that the NASACCO Gold Rice would be sold to the public at a 10 percent discount off the current market price for 50 kilograms, encouraging Nigerians to support the locally produced brand. He described the rice as “one of the best in the market,” urging citizens to patronise the product.

The governor expressed gratitude to Silvex International for partnering with the state to advance the project, noting that such collaborations are central to attracting private sector investment and boosting the local economy.

In his remarks, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, represented by Ibrahim Alkali, a director in the ministry, commended the initiative for its potential to promote economic growth, food security, and private sector involvement in the agricultural value chain.

The NASACCO Gold Rice project marks a significant milestone for Nasarawa State, positioning it as a model for sustainable rice production, agricultural innovation, and investment-friendly policies in Nigeria’s agri-food sector.

FAO, Lagos boost red meat and coconut investment.

Agriculture

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations has partnered with the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems to drive strategic investment in Nigeria’s red meat and coconut value chains. This collaboration aims to strengthen the state’s agri-food sector, unlock economic opportunities, and create sustainable jobs, particularly for the youth.

During a roundtable meeting in Lagos on Tuesday, Hussein Gadain, FAO’s representative in Nigeria and ECOWAS, emphasised the strategic importance of Lagos in advancing Nigeria’s food security agenda. Represented at the meeting by FAO programme officer Tofiq Braimah, he praised the Lagos Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems for demonstrating “bold leadership and unwavering commitment to building a sustainable agri-food system.”

“These value chains include coconut, livestock, and feedlot systems to attract private-sector and multilateral investments,” he said. “By leveraging Lagos’ industrial potential and commercial networks, we aim to unlock new economic opportunities, create decent jobs, and empower the vibrant youth population. This approach positions Lagos to fully exploit AfCFTA opportunities, making it a model for agricultural transformation across Africa.”

Represented by Rasheed Macaulay, director of veterinary services, the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems reiterated its readiness to drive investment and scale up initiatives that support sustainable agriculture. Permanent Secretary Mr Audu highlighted that FAO’s collaboration reflects a commitment to move beyond policy dialogue to practical, investment-driven solutions for food systems transformation.

The two-day roundtable focused on validating key proposals under the Lagos State Red Meat Initiative and the Coconut Value Chain Programme. These proposals are informed by comprehensive technical and economic analyses conducted through FAO’s Technical Cooperation Project, which included feasibility studies for a Lagos State Cattle Feedlot Farm Estate, and the FAO–UNIDO-supported Coconut Value Chain Programme.

Both programmes have produced detailed investment notes and financial models aimed at mobilising resources and attracting private-sector participation. By leveraging these insights, Lagos is positioned to enhance livestock productivity, optimise coconut production, and integrate value chains with broader industrial and commercial networks.

The FAO–Lagos partnership marks a significant step in sustainable agricultural development, positioning the state as a regional leader in food systems transformation, value chain modernisation, and youth empowerment, while fostering resilience and competitiveness within Africa’s evolving agri-food landscape.

African Farming
African Farming

Tractor of the Year awards ceremony at EIMA 2021

The 44th edition of EIMA International 2021 will host the Tractor of the Year awards ceremony, and feature a parade of the fourteen finalist models

The Bologna-based event focuses on new products and offers a wide-ranging showcase for Tractor of the Year, the competition promoted by Trattori magazine, that selects the best models among those produced during the year, and awards prizes to the winners from different categories.

During the exhibition, the awards ceremony will be held for four models - Tractor of the Year, Best Utility, Best of Specialised and Sustainable TOTY - that have been selected on the basis of votes cast by an international jury of 26 journalists from trade publications.

The Tractor of the Year event will be a major attraction throughout the five days of the event. It is expected to be one of the most interesting new features of this year's EIMA International.

The open-air arena within the exhibition complex, between halls 37 and 35, has been chosen to display the finalist tractors. The audience can expect to see the fourteen models that competed for the "Tractor of the Year" on display in the open-air arena, while a speaker will introduce the technical features of each of the models. 

TOTY is an important promotional and marketing platform for the manufacturers of the tractor sector, which is able to develop substantial technological innovations every year, improve vehicle performance, and capture new user segments.

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Event News

Must-see highlights at DLG Feldtage 2026. (Image credit: DLG)

Event News

From 16 to 18 June 2026, Bernburg in Saxony-Anhalt will once again become the central hub for modern crop production as the DLG Feldtage returns to the fields of the International DLG Crop Production Centre.

Set on DLG’s expansive 600-hectare trial farm near Leipzig, the open-air event is gearing up to showcase practical farming innovations under the inspiring theme “Crop Production out of the Box”. With more than 150 exhibitors already registered, the organisers are still welcoming further participants via dlg-feldtage.de.

Recognised as the leading international field exhibition for crop professionals, DLG Feldtage brings together farmers, agronomists, machinery experts and researchers seeking hands-on insights into the future of crop production. This year’s programme spans everything from plant breeding and crop protection to fertilisation strategies and cutting-edge agricultural machinery. Visitors can look forward to a rich mix of demonstrations, expert knowledge and real-world trial plots, supported by popular formats including DLG Spotlights, Expert Stages and Pop-up Talks.

The thematic DLG Spotlights are set to be a major draw. The “Planting Green” Spotlight will delve into direct drilling into living cover crops, with live plots demonstrating soil-friendly techniques, nutrient efficiency and modern weed management approaches. Equally compelling is the “Value Chain for Quality Wheat” Spotlight, which traces how premium wheat quality is upheld from field to processing, illustrating the collaboration required across agriculture, trade and milling. Meanwhile, the “Organic Farming” Spotlight will highlight diverse rotations, robust crop choices and practical advice for organic growers looking to refine both production and marketing.

Across the site, visitors will find dedicated meeting zones for discussions on oil and protein crops, resilient cropping concepts and strategies for navigating weather-related risks. As always, machinery demonstrations are a core attraction. Across six themed areas from direct seeding and deep tillage to mechanical weed control 66 machine combinations will take to the field, each accompanied by expert commentary and presented once per day.

Following its successful debut in 2024, FarmRobotix returns with the latest robotics, automation tools and AI-driven innovations for crop production. A special demonstration area will spotlight autonomous field systems, offering a glimpse of how technology may redefine farming in the years ahead.

Beyond the plots and machines, the DLG Plaza will serve as the social and professional heart of the event, hosting expert talks, panel sessions, regional food and relaxed networking. Short and sharp Pop-up Talks will take place at exhibitor stands and Spotlight areas, covering timely topics such as fertilisation and crop protection. The popular DLG CropNight will also make its return, inviting attendees to unwind with live music, food and summer drinks. Camping facilities will be available for visitors wishing to stay on site.

For more information please visit www.dlg-feldtage.de

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

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

Livestock

Nigeria aims to lead West Africa towards a more secure and resilient livestock future.(Image credit: AgroNigeria)

Livestock

Nigeria has once again reaffirmed its pivotal role in safeguarding West Africa’s livestock sector, strengthening regional cooperation in the fight against transboundary animal diseases that continue to threaten food security and rural livelihoods across the sub-region.

At the opening of the Regional Training on Strengthening Capacities for PPR and Other Transboundary Animal Diseases held in Abuja, the Federal Government emphasised that collaborative action is essential to accelerate livestock transformation and protect millions of households dependent on the sector.

Addressing participants, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, highlighted the nation’s strong commitment to advancing the Pan-African PPR Eradication Programme and strengthening Africa’s collective resilience. According to her, Nigeria is implementing extensive upgrades to its animal health surveillance systems to better detect, monitor, and prevent cross-border disease spread.

Dr. Akujobi noted that the Federal Government is deepening surveillance mechanisms by enhancing the National Animal Disease Information System, fostering stronger laboratory–field coordination under the One Health approach, and expanding partnerships with ECOWAS-RAHC, AU-IBAR, FAO, and WOAH to ensure that national animal health initiatives align with broader regional and continental strategies. These efforts reflect Nigeria’s leadership in harmonising disease control frameworks across West Africa.

She further explained that Nigeria’s decision to host the regional training demonstrates its readiness to support neighbouring countries in capacity building, technical cooperation, and coordinated surveillance. According to her, disease outbreaks in rural communities go beyond animal losses—they weaken resilience, disrupt local economies, and slow down agricultural advancement. She stressed that the continent must shift from reactive emergency responses to proactive, data-driven surveillance systems if Africa is to meet the global PPR eradication target by 2030.

Highlighting ongoing challenges, Dr. Akujobi pointed out that the region continues to face a range of transboundary and zoonotic threats including Foot and Mouth Disease, African Swine Fever, Anthrax, and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. These diseases, she said, collectively undermine food systems, livestock productivity, and household incomes. She called for stronger collaboration among veterinarians, epidemiologists, laboratory scientists, border authorities, wildlife regulators, and pastoral communities, noting that each stakeholder plays a critical role in prevention and control.

In his address, the FAO Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Tofeek Braimah, emphasised the severe socio-economic impact of PPR, describing it as one of the most destructive viral diseases affecting sheep and goats. He reiterated that although the 2030 eradication goal is ambitious, it remains achievable through sustained political commitment, strong partnerships, and synchronised regional action. Dr. Braimah reaffirmed FAO’s unwavering support to member states and regional institutions in their animal health efforts.

Through enhanced cooperation, innovative surveillance, and strengthened regional coordination, Nigeria aims to lead West Africa towards a more secure and resilient livestock future.

Demand for breeding ewes and rams continues to rise, with shortages already emerging.

Nigeria and Botswana collaborates to modernise livestock sector. (Image credit: Federal Ministry of Livestock Development)

Crops

The UAE’s AI for Development initiative is designed to support Africa’s economic.

Agriculture

Kenya is positioning itself as a potential major beneficiary of the United Arab Emirates’ newly launched US$1bn Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Development initiative, a strategic move that could significantly accelerate the country’s digital transformation agenda.

The initiative comes at a crucial moment as Kenya shifts from AI policy formulation to large-scale implementation across key economic and social sectors.

The fund was unveiled at the G20 Summit by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, who noted that the programme reflects the UAE’s commitment to sustainable growth through global partnerships and innovative financing models targeting emerging economies.

For Nairobi, the timing could not be better. Kenya recently rolled out its National AI Strategy 2025–2030, a roadmap that places strong emphasis on international collaboration to unlock AI-driven growth. The strategy prioritises digital public infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, climate resilience and education, while also aiming to establish Kenya as Africa’s leading hub for AI research, innovation and real-world application.

According to government estimates, fully implementing the strategy will require at least KSh152 billion (approximately US$1.19bn), underlining the need for external funding and strategic partnerships.

Speaking at the launch of the strategy in March, Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy William Kabogo said its success would depend on adequate financing and robust regulatory frameworks.

“Kenyan policymakers and technology stakeholders are expected to explore avenues for collaboration as the country seeks to move from AI ambition to measurable impact. If leveraged effectively, the UAE-backed fund could provide Kenya with both capital and strategic partnerships needed to accelerate AI adoption, reinforcing its bid to become a continental leader in responsible and inclusive AI-driven development,” he said.

The UAE’s AI for Development initiative is designed to support Africa’s economic and social progress by strengthening digital infrastructure, modernising government services and boosting productivity. These goals closely align with Kenya’s national development priorities, particularly in agriculture and healthcare, where AI technologies are expected to improve efficiency, service delivery and long-term resilience.

The programme will be implemented by the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX) under the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, in partnership with the UAE Foreign Aid Agency, further highlighting the scale and credibility of the initiative.

Tea continues to play a crucial role in Malawi’s economy.

Uganda's sugarcane price policy helps farmers.

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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