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In The Spotlight

Sardines play a critical role in Morocco’s food system.

Aquaculture

Morocco, recognised globally as one of the leading producers and exporters of sardines, has announced a major policy shift that will reshape its fisheries and seafood trade landscape.

From 1 February 2026, the country will ban the export of frozen sardines, a move aimed at safeguarding domestic supply, easing pressure on household food budgets, and restoring balance in national fish markets. The decision was confirmed by Zakia Driouich, Secretary of State for Maritime Fisheries, who described the measure as necessary to address growing supply constraints.

The policy change comes amid a marked decline in sardine landings in recent years. Data from the National Fisheries Office (ONP) shows that catches fell by almost 46 per cent between 2022 and 2024, dropping from roughly 965,000 tonnes to about 525,000 tonnes. This contraction has intensified competition for available fish, pushing up prices and reducing availability across several regions during 2025. As a result, authorities have been under mounting pressure to intervene.

Sardines play a critical role in Morocco’s food system, serving as a low-cost, nutrient-rich protein source for millions of people, particularly those in low- and middle-income households. They account for an estimated 80 per cent of the country’s small pelagic fish stocks, making them central to both food security and the wider fisheries economy. However, rising domestic demand, coupled with climate variability, environmental stress and prolonged overfishing, has placed these resources under significant strain. The export ban is therefore intended to rebalance supply and demand while ensuring consistent access for local consumers.

Another key objective of the export suspension is to limit price volatility, especially during periods of peak consumption such as Ramadan, when demand for sardines traditionally increases. While Moroccan authorities have reiterated that fish prices are influenced by market forces, they have also stepped up efforts to tackle speculation, illegal fishing, and unfair trading practices that contribute to inflated retail prices.

Although no fixed end date has been announced, the policy has sparked debate within the seafood industry about the trade-off between domestic food security and export-driven revenue growth. Despite the freeze on frozen sardine exports, Morocco remains a major global seafood exporter, supplying markets across Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

Alongside the ban, the government is advancing wider reforms focused on sustainable fisheries management, including stronger monitoring systems, improved coastal planning, and tougher action against illegal fishing. Together, these measures signal a long-term strategy to protect marine ecosystems while reinforcing national food security.

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

Agriculture

Crédit du Sahel has strengthened its position as a key driver of agricultural finance in Cameroon by formalising a landmark partnership agreement with the National Confederation of Cotton Producers of Cameroon (CNPCC) in Garoua.

Building on more than a decade of collaboration, the renewed alliance aims to accelerate the integration of cotton farmers into the formal banking system, unlocking new opportunities for financial inclusion, income security, and sustainable rural development across the country.

This expanded agreement comes at a critical moment for cotton producers in northern Cameroon, who are navigating increasing regional insecurity alongside stricter regulatory requirements under national financial legislation. For years, many farmers have depended on cash-based transactions, leaving them vulnerable to theft and limiting their access to modern financial services. By promoting structured, secure banking solutions, the partnership seeks to safeguard farmers’ earnings, improve financial transparency, and connect producers to a wider range of tailored financial products.

Moving beyond conventional harvest financing, Crédit du Sahel is introducing innovative credit solutions that reflect the seasonal nature of agriculture. Among these is “soudure” financing, designed to support households during lean periods when income gaps are most pronounced. This initiative will help families manage essential expenses between planting and harvest cycles. The agreement also provides financing for food crops and complementary rural activities, alongside dedicated training loans to strengthen financial literacy and long-term financial planning among cotton producers.

According to Adamou Haman Wabi, Director General of Crédit du Sahel, the core objective of the partnership is to protect producers’ revenues by offering a safer and more reliable alternative to cash handling, particularly in fragile and high-risk regions. This transition represents a significant step towards greater financial resilience and economic stability for farming communities.

From the CNPCC’s perspective, improved access to credit is fundamental to scaling cotton production nationwide. Board Chair Paul Tizi highlighted that meeting national output ambitions is directly linked to the availability of adequate financial resources. This aligns with the goals of SODECOTON, which is targeting an annual production level of 450,000 tonnes. Following a strong recovery in seed cotton output from around 295,000 tonnes to approximately 347,000 tonnes in the 2022/2023 season sustained investment is essential to maintain growth for the more than 200,000 households dependent on cotton farming.

As one of Cameroon’s most valuable cash crops, cotton underpins rural livelihoods in the Far North, North, and Adamawa regions. With 25 years of experience and a network of 20 branches, Crédit du Sahel continues to play a stabilising role in the agro-industrial ecosystem. Through this strategic partnership, the bank and CNPCC are strengthening economic resilience, advancing cashless agriculture, and reinforcing Cameroon’s competitiveness in the global cotton market.

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

Agriculture

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, working closely with the Government of Zimbabwe and with financial backing from the French Government, has rolled out an innovative Agricultural Voucher System under the Nourish and Thrive: Inclusive and Sustainable Nutrition and Livelihoods Initiative.

The programme is designed to boost food security, improve nutrition, and build long-term community resilience in some of Zimbabwe’s most climate-vulnerable regions. It specifically addresses the pressing challenges faced by communities in the Masvingo and Mwenezi districts, which have been severely affected by climate variability, including El Niño-induced drought conditions that continue to disrupt agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods.

At the heart of the initiative is a voucher-based approach that provides subsidised agricultural input packages to vulnerable rural households. Through this system, farmers are able to access high-quality, drought-tolerant seeds and essential farming resources from local suppliers. By empowering beneficiaries to select and redeem inputs within their communities, the programme supports timely crop production while strengthening local markets. This approach enables households to grow nutritious food, enhance soil health, and adapt more effectively to climate shocks. Overall, the initiative reached approximately 4,000 households across targeted wards, encouraging collaboration between local leaders, agro-dealers, and farming communities to drive inclusive agrifood systems transformation.

A key strength of the programme lies in its strong focus on Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA). Acknowledging the risks that can arise during humanitarian interventions, FAO prioritised awareness and education for both beneficiaries and partners. Training sessions focused on prevention, reporting mechanisms, and accountability, reinforcing dignity and safety at the community level. As Ruramai Sibiya from World Vision Zimbabwe noted, proactive sharing of information is crucial for cultivating a culture of protection and dignity in programme implementation.

To enhance transparency and efficiency, FAO trained Voucher Redeeming Suppliers (VRS) on the Identification, Delivery and Empowerment Application (IDEA) platform. This digital solution supports beneficiary management, improves accountability, and streamlines voucher redemption. Combined with local leadership engagement and on-site monitoring, the system has strengthened trust and operational effectiveness.

Community feedback reflects improved access to critical farming inputs alongside greater awareness of safeguarding measures. Collectively, the initiative demonstrates how integrated, rights-based interventions can promote sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and food security, while ensuring safer and more informed communities across rural Zimbabwe.

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.

Top Stories

Grid List

Event News

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.

EIMA International promotes knowledge sharing and networking.(Image credit: eima.it)

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)

Livestock

Livestock Ministry supports women and youth in development agenda.

Livestock

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development is scaling up strategic efforts to reposition Nigeria’s livestock sector by placing women and youths at the centre of sustainability, innovation and value-chain competitiveness.

This policy direction was underscored at the Capacity Building Workshop for Women and Youths in the Livestock Value Chain, held in Abuja from Monday, December 29 to Tuesday, December 30, 2025.

Addressing participants at the workshop, the Director, Technical, Office of the Permanent Secretary, Peter Alike, emphasised that the transformation of Nigeria’s livestock industry depends on the deliberate integration of sustainable and innovative practices across production, processing and marketing. He noted that adopting this approach is vital for unlocking the sector’s economic potential, strengthening food security and driving inclusive economic growth.

Peter explained that equipping women and youths with relevant skills and technical knowledge remains a core priority of the Ministry, given their growing influence in agribusiness development and rural livelihoods. According to him, the capacity-building initiative is designed as a continuous, hands-on programme focused on practical solutions that participants can immediately deploy within their farms and livestock enterprises.

He added that the training strongly promotes mindset change, actionable expertise and long-term competence development, with an emphasis on environmentally responsible and economically viable livestock systems. Peter further stated that the strategic importance of women and youths informed their recognition as a priority group under the ten pillars of the National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy (NL-GAS), the Ministry’s flagship framework for comprehensive sector reform.

Speaking on sustainable livestock production, animal scientist  Ifeanyi Harry Njoagwuani described sustainability as a science-based and management-driven process. He highlighted climate-resilient breeds, improved genetics, precision nutrition through optimised feed formulations and climate-smart housing systems as essential tools for building resilient livestock systems.

In another session, Ayoade Akande stressed the importance of biogas production in sustainable livestock development. He called for strengthened extension services, increased private sector investment in modern feed technologies, expanded forage seed distribution networks and supportive policy frameworks to enhance sustainable ruminant nutrition.

In his closing remarks, the Director of Livestock Extension and Business Development, Joseph Ako Eleojo, urged participants to form cooperative alliances and act as change agents within their communities, noting that women and youths were deliberately targeted for their capacity to drive innovation, productivity and sustainability.

A major highlight of the two-day workshop was a study visit to De-Dre Solution Poultry Farm in Pasali 2, Kuje Area Council, Federal Capital Territory. With a capacity of 24,800 birds and daily output of about 650 crates of eggs, the facility offered participants valuable insights into efficient and sustainable poultry production. Participants were drawn from poultry and ruminant enterprises across several states of the federation.

Sardines play a critical role in Morocco’s food system.

Crops

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

Agriculture

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, working closely with the Government of Zimbabwe and with financial backing from the French Government, has rolled out an innovative Agricultural Voucher System under the Nourish and Thrive: Inclusive and Sustainable Nutrition and Livelihoods Initiative.

The programme is designed to boost food security, improve nutrition, and build long-term community resilience in some of Zimbabwe’s most climate-vulnerable regions. It specifically addresses the pressing challenges faced by communities in the Masvingo and Mwenezi districts, which have been severely affected by climate variability, including El Niño-induced drought conditions that continue to disrupt agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods.

At the heart of the initiative is a voucher-based approach that provides subsidised agricultural input packages to vulnerable rural households. Through this system, farmers are able to access high-quality, drought-tolerant seeds and essential farming resources from local suppliers. By empowering beneficiaries to select and redeem inputs within their communities, the programme supports timely crop production while strengthening local markets. This approach enables households to grow nutritious food, enhance soil health, and adapt more effectively to climate shocks. Overall, the initiative reached approximately 4,000 households across targeted wards, encouraging collaboration between local leaders, agro-dealers, and farming communities to drive inclusive agrifood systems transformation.

A key strength of the programme lies in its strong focus on Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA). Acknowledging the risks that can arise during humanitarian interventions, FAO prioritised awareness and education for both beneficiaries and partners. Training sessions focused on prevention, reporting mechanisms, and accountability, reinforcing dignity and safety at the community level. As Ruramai Sibiya from World Vision Zimbabwe noted, proactive sharing of information is crucial for cultivating a culture of protection and dignity in programme implementation.

To enhance transparency and efficiency, FAO trained Voucher Redeeming Suppliers (VRS) on the Identification, Delivery and Empowerment Application (IDEA) platform. This digital solution supports beneficiary management, improves accountability, and streamlines voucher redemption. Combined with local leadership engagement and on-site monitoring, the system has strengthened trust and operational effectiveness.

Community feedback reflects improved access to critical farming inputs alongside greater awareness of safeguarding measures. Collectively, the initiative demonstrates how integrated, rights-based interventions can promote sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and food security, while ensuring safer and more informed communities across rural Zimbabwe.

Kenya’s floriculture industry remains a vital pillar of the national economy, generating more than KES 150 billion each year and supporting over 500,000 jobs across the value chain. (Image credit: Corteva Agriscience)

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

Technology

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

Machinery & Equipment

Italy’s tractor manufacturer McCormick has officially entered Ethiopia’s agricultural machinery market, marking a significant step in the country’s push to modernise farming and reduce reliance on manual labour.

Agriculture remains the backbone of Ethiopia’s economy, contributing around 34% of national GDP, and the government is intensifying efforts to accelerate mechanisation and productivity growth.

McCormick Tractors, owned by Italian industrial group Argo Tractors, announced a strategic partnership with Ethiopia’s Kerchanshe Group. The conglomerate is a major player in agricultural production and commodity trading, making it a natural partner for the Italian manufacturer’s market entry.

Under the agreement, Kerchanshe Group becomes the exclusive distributor of McCormick tractors across Ethiopia. The partnership covers nationwide sales, after-sales support and technical services, giving McCormick a direct channel into one of East Africa’s fastest-growing agricultural markets. For Ethiopia, the deal brings greater access to modern farm equipment as the country seeks to transform smallholder-dominated agriculture.

A fast-growing mechanisation market

Ethiopia presents a high-growth opportunity for global farm machinery suppliers. Despite vast agricultural potential, mechanisation levels remain low, with manual labour still dominating rural production. Government data show that tractors currently cultivate only about 5 million hectares, equivalent to 27% of the country’s estimated 18.4 million hectares of arable land.

To close this gap, the Ministry of Agriculture has set ambitious targets under its ten-year development strategy. The plan aims to increase the national tractor fleet from 20,000 units to 65,000, while the number of combine harvesters is expected to rise sharply from 2,700 to 15,000 units. These goals underscore Ethiopia’s long-term commitment to agricultural modernisation.

Supportive fiscal policies are also fuelling demand. Since 2020, Ethiopia has allowed duty-free imports of agricultural machinery and related equipment, encouraging leasing services and making modern technology more accessible to farmers.

A competitive landscape for foreign manufacturers

McCormick enters an increasingly competitive market already attracting major international players. In June 2023, China’s YTO China-Africa Machinery Corp (Camaco) partnered with the state-owned Ethio-Engineering Group to establish a tractor assembly plant with an annual capacity of 10,000 units. A month later, Zoomlion Agriculture Machinery Co. signed an agreement with the Ethiopian Agricultural Business Corporation to supply equipment, distribute spare parts and provide training and maintenance services.

In August 2025, Japanese manufacturer Kubota also announced plans to accelerate its African expansion, including Ethiopia, with backing from Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation.

Expanding McCormick’s African footprint

The Ethiopian entry significantly strengthens McCormick’s presence in Africa, which had previously been limited to South Africa. The move aligns with broader market trends, as analysts project the African farm machinery market to grow from US$3.20bn in 2025 to US$4.65bn by 2030. Rising mechanisation gaps, targeted subsidies, digital leasing platforms and climate-smart farming practices are making tractors an essential tool across Africa’s evolving agricultural landscape.

These wireless temperature and humidity sensors are ideal for a wide range of uses. (Image credit: MultiTech )

Agri-IoT Leaf Temperature and Humidity Sensor into modern farming practices (Image credit: Agri-Tech)

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