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In The Spotlight

Kenya Goes Digital: New Electronic Warehouse Receipt System Set to Reshape Agricultural Trade. (Image credit: State Department for Trade)

Agriculture

Kenya has taken a significant step forward in modernising its agricultural sector with the launch of the Electronic Warehouse Receipt System Central Registry, known as the eWRS-CR.

Developed by the Warehouse Receipt System Council (WRSC) in partnership with TradeMark Africa and backed by funding from the British High Commission in Kenya, the platform is designed to tackle some of the most persistent challenges facing the country's farming community.

At its core, the system is a secure, government-owned digital platform that automates and centralises the management of warehouse receipts. For farmers who have long struggled with post-harvest losses, limited access to credit and unpredictable market conditions, this represents a genuine shift in how agricultural trade can work. The platform allows farmers and commodity owners to store produce in certified warehouses and receive electronic receipts as proof of ownership. Those receipts can then be used as collateral to access loans, giving farmers financial breathing room without forcing them into distress sales.

The numbers behind the problem are stark. Smallholder farmers account for more than 75 per cent of Kenya's agricultural output, yet less than five per cent of bank lending reaches the sector. Post-harvest losses for some commodities run as high as 30 to 40 per cent. The eWRS-CR directly targets both issues by creating a more structured, transparent and trustworthy trading environment.

Principal Secretary for Industry, Dr Juma Mukhwana, officiated the launch and spoke to the platform's broader significance. "The e-WRS Central Registry is not merely a technology platform; it is a confidence-building intervention designed to catalyse participation across the agricultural value chain. By enhancing transparency, strengthening trust, and enabling access to finance, this system empowers farmers, attracts private sector investment, and contributes to Kenya's broader economic transformation," he said.

WRSC Chairman Patrick Mbogo , added, "The launch of the Electronic Warehouse Receipt System Central Registry marks a defining moment in Kenya's journey toward a modern, transparent and efficient agricultural marketing system. This platform strengthens trust among market participants, enhances commodity security, and unlocks access to financing for farmers and agribusinesses. It lays a firm foundation for structured agricultural trade and positions Kenya as a regional leader in agricultural market innovation."

Country Director of TradeMark Africa, Lilian Mwai, underlined the regional dimension of the initiative. "By improving traceability and enabling access to finance, this platform empowers farmers and agribusinesses to compete more effectively in domestic and regional trade. The No Stop Border initiative becomes practical by fixing systems at source. Goods moving across Africa should not face unnecessary delays caused by fragmented systems. Systems like the Electronic Warehouse Receipt platform ensure that commodities are traceable, trusted and trade-ready from the moment they enter the value chain," she said.

Deputy High Commissioner Diana Dalton of the British High Commission echoed the sentiment. "Kenya and the UK are injecting innovation into agriculture. Not only does this system put more money into farmers' pockets, but it also allows produce like maize to be used as collateral for short-term loans, enabling farmers to meet immediate needs without selling at lower prices. The renewed Strategic Partnership between Kenya and the UK is driving modernisation for businesses of all sizes, adding crucial value to produce before export," she said.

The system is already live and fully operational. To date, 114 warehouse receipts have been registered, covering nearly 600,000 kilograms of deposited commodities. Kenya's transition from a pilot phase to nationwide rollout signals a serious commitment to building an agricultural economy that works better for everyone in the value chain.

Rwanda secures major IFAD Investment to strengthen agriculture and irrigation.

Agriculture

The Government of Rwanda has secured significant financial support to strengthen its agricultural sector, with a strong focus on improving irrigation and natural resource management in rural communities.

The country has obtained US78.5mn, equivalent to more than Rwf110 billion, in financing from the International Fund for Agricultural Development to advance agricultural development and resilience.

The financing agreement was signed back in February 2026 by Yusuf Murangwa, Rwanda’s Minister of Finance, representing the government, and Dagmawi Habte-Selassie, IFAD Country Director, representing the organisation. The funding will support the second phase of the Kayonza Irrigation and Integrated Watershed Management Project, widely known as KIIWP2. The programme will focus on expanding irrigation systems and strengthening watershed management across the district.

A major portion of the investment will benefit farmers in Kayonza District, where agriculture is a key source of livelihood. By improving irrigation infrastructure, the project will help ensure farmers have more reliable access to water. This is particularly important in a region where agricultural production is increasingly affected by climate variability. Better water management will allow farmers to maintain productivity while protecting vital natural resources.

The project also includes support for small livestock value chains. This will open up additional income opportunities for farming households and encourage diversification of rural livelihoods. By supporting multiple sources of income, the programme aims to strengthen the economic stability of rural communities.

Beyond improving agricultural infrastructure, the initiative is designed to tackle several broader challenges facing the sector. It seeks to reduce poverty, improve food security, strengthen climate resilience and increase incomes among rural populations. These goals align closely with Rwanda’s long term development priorities.

Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the Rwandan economy, but the sector faces growing pressures. Unpredictable weather patterns often disrupt harvests, while domestic production has struggled to keep pace with rising food demand. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, Rwanda’s agricultural imports averaged US$655mn annually between 2019 and 2021, compared with US$352.4mn between 2012 and 2014.

Alongside the IFAD support, the government has committed 75 billion Rwandan francs to the national agricultural input subsidy programme for the 2025 to 2026 farming season. This represents a 38.8 percent increase compared with the previous season.

IFAD has worked with Rwanda since 1981. By 2024, the organisation had co financed 21 rural development programmes, committing US$791mn and supporting more than US$1.5mn households.

These efforts also support the country’s Fifth Strategic Plan for Agriculture Transformation, known as PSTA 5, which runs from 2024 to 2029 and focuses on building sustainable and resilient agri food systems while strengthening food security and economic growth.

agrofood Nigeria 2026 returns to Lagos with record global participation. (Image credit: agrofood Nigeria)

Event News

The 11th edition of agrofood Nigeria will take place from 24 to 26 March 2026 at the Landmark Centre in Lagos, Victoria Island.

Recognised as West Africa’s leading annual meeting point for the agrofood and packaging sectors, the exhibition continues to grow in influence and reach. This year’s event is set to welcome thousands of business leaders, decision makers and professionals from across Nigeria and the wider West African region, reinforcing its position as a key industry gathering.

Organised by fairtrade Messe in cooperation with Modion Communications, agrofood Nigeria serves as an important platform for companies seeking growth, partnerships and fresh opportunities. The exhibition connects stakeholders from across the full value chain, covering agriculture, food and beverage technology, food ingredients, packaging solutions and finished food products. By bringing these sectors together under one roof, the event creates a focused environment where innovation, investment and collaboration can thrive.

For businesses aiming to expand production capacity, improve operational efficiency or introduce new products to the market, agrofood Nigeria provides a direct route to practical solutions. The exhibition floor offers access to reliable suppliers, advanced technologies and emerging investment prospects. It also creates valuable opportunities for professionals looking to diversify their markets or strengthen their retail presence within Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

A key highlight of the 2026 edition is the scale of its international participation. The event will host more than 100 exhibitors representing 14 countries, making it the most globally represented edition in its history. Participating nations include Belgium, Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Poland, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

This strong international presence reflects the growing interest in Nigeria’s agrofood sector and its potential for investment and development. By creating opportunities for direct engagement with global solution providers, agrofood Nigeria encourages knowledge exchange, supports stronger supply networks and helps businesses make informed decisions when investing in technology and infrastructure across Nigeria and West Africa.

African Farming

Biome Makers announces commitment to soil health with Mission Soil Manifesto endorsement

Biome Makers, a leading agtech company in soil health analysis and microbiome technology, announced its commitment to safeguarding and revitalising soil health through concrete actions

On 20 April 2023, the company became a signatory of the Mission Soil Manifesto, underscoring its dedication to promoting sustainable soil management practices. 

The Mission Soil Deal for Europe, spearheaded by an alliance of regional and local policy-makers, stakeholders, and citizens, aims to establish a thriving community that prioritises the preservation of soil health. By endorsing the Mission Soil Manifesto, Biome Makers aligns with organisations recognising the urgent need for soil protection. Through this commitment, Biome Makers engages in knowledge-sharing activities and events, facilitating the exchange of best practices with like-minded organisations dedicated to preserving soil health.

Biome Makers actively supports soil health restoration through its ongoing global initiative, Fields4Ever. Dedicated to conserving and monitoring soil health, Fields4Ever currently backs 218 soil health restoration projects in 45 countries. With its BeCrop technology, utilised by more than 2,000 customers worldwide, Biome Makers empowers stakeholders with functional soil assessment tools, education, and training. 

"We are thrilled to be part of the Mission Soil community and to endorse the principles outlined in the Manifesto," stated Alberto Acedo, cofounder and chief scientific officer at Biome Makers. "Soil health is fundamental to the sustainability of our planet, and as leaders in soil analysis and microbiome technology, we are committed to driving positive change. By joining forces with other signatories, we can collectively foster innovative solutions and ensure a prosperous future for our soils." 

Top Stories

Grid List

Event News

agrofood Nigeria 2026 returns to Lagos with record global participation. (Image credit: agrofood Nigeria)

Event News

The 11th edition of agrofood Nigeria will take place from 24 to 26 March 2026 at the Landmark Centre in Lagos, Victoria Island.

Recognised as West Africa’s leading annual meeting point for the agrofood and packaging sectors, the exhibition continues to grow in influence and reach. This year’s event is set to welcome thousands of business leaders, decision makers and professionals from across Nigeria and the wider West African region, reinforcing its position as a key industry gathering.

Organised by fairtrade Messe in cooperation with Modion Communications, agrofood Nigeria serves as an important platform for companies seeking growth, partnerships and fresh opportunities. The exhibition connects stakeholders from across the full value chain, covering agriculture, food and beverage technology, food ingredients, packaging solutions and finished food products. By bringing these sectors together under one roof, the event creates a focused environment where innovation, investment and collaboration can thrive.

For businesses aiming to expand production capacity, improve operational efficiency or introduce new products to the market, agrofood Nigeria provides a direct route to practical solutions. The exhibition floor offers access to reliable suppliers, advanced technologies and emerging investment prospects. It also creates valuable opportunities for professionals looking to diversify their markets or strengthen their retail presence within Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

A key highlight of the 2026 edition is the scale of its international participation. The event will host more than 100 exhibitors representing 14 countries, making it the most globally represented edition in its history. Participating nations include Belgium, Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Poland, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

This strong international presence reflects the growing interest in Nigeria’s agrofood sector and its potential for investment and development. By creating opportunities for direct engagement with global solution providers, agrofood Nigeria encourages knowledge exchange, supports stronger supply networks and helps businesses make informed decisions when investing in technology and infrastructure across Nigeria and West Africa.

4th Africa Food Systems Transformation in Accra, Africa. (Image credit: UN food system hub)

HortiFlora Expo 2026 to spotlight Ethiopia’s expanding horticulture industry. (Image credit: HPP Worldwide)

Livestock

Vaccine arrival strengthens South Africa’s fight against foot and mouth disease.

Livestock

South Africa has stepped up its response to Foot and mouth disease with the arrival of one million high potency vaccines at OR Tambo International Airport.

The shipment was received under the supervision of John Steenhuisen, Agriculture Minister marking a significant boost to the national vaccination drive already under way in affected regions.

The vaccines were supplied by Biogénesis Bagó in Argentina and form part of a broader supply programme. Further consignments are expected in the coming weeks from BVI in Botswana and Dollvet in Turkey. By the end of March, more than five million doses from these three international suppliers are set to arrive in the country.

At home, the Agricultural Research Council has committed to producing 20 000 vaccines per week, with plans to increase output to 200 000 per week in 2027. The expanded supply will allow authorities to move beyond targeted outbreak response and work towards wider suppression of the virus in high risk areas.

Steenhuisen said, “Vaccination has already begun in affected areas, but supply has limited the speed and coverage. With this arrival, we can now accelerate protection across priority provinces and stabilise the livestock sector.”

Outbreaks have been reported in every province, prompting quarantine measures, movement restrictions and ongoing surveillance. A risk based vaccination strategy will focus first on outbreak centres in KwaZulu Natal and parts of Gauteng, Free State and North West, before extending to other high risk and border regions.

The initial one million doses will be shared across all provinces, with KwaZulu Natal and Free State receiving the largest allocations. However, the minister warned that vaccines alone will not end the crisis.

“Quarantine rules, movement permits and biosecurity measures exist to protect every farmer in the country. Those who deliberately move animals illegally, conceal infections, or ignore restrictions threaten the recovery of the entire sector. Where there is wilful non compliance, we will work with law enforcement authorities and the full might of the law will be applied,” Steenhuisen added.

He will visit Mooi River in KwaZulu Natal on 27 February to vaccinate dairy cattle alongside veterinarians and farmers. “The dairy industry has been among the hardest hit with significant production losses, disrupted markets and immense strain on farming families. That visit marks the practical beginning of recovery at farm level. Each vaccinated herd means stability returning to a business, wages returning to workers and milk returning to shelves.”

“We are moving step by step from crisis management to control,” Minister Steenhuisen concluded. “Vaccines are arriving, the system is scaling up, and compliance will be enforced. Working together, we will stabilise the sector and rebuild confidence in South Africa’s animal health system.”

Natasha Hall as Vice President VIV Worldwide. (Image credit: VIV WORLD)

Ntungamo battles to contain foot and mouth disease as markets close and tensions rise.

Crops

Rwanda secures major IFAD Investment to strengthen agriculture and irrigation.

Agriculture

The Government of Rwanda has secured significant financial support to strengthen its agricultural sector, with a strong focus on improving irrigation and natural resource management in rural communities.

The country has obtained US78.5mn, equivalent to more than Rwf110 billion, in financing from the International Fund for Agricultural Development to advance agricultural development and resilience.

The financing agreement was signed back in February 2026 by Yusuf Murangwa, Rwanda’s Minister of Finance, representing the government, and Dagmawi Habte-Selassie, IFAD Country Director, representing the organisation. The funding will support the second phase of the Kayonza Irrigation and Integrated Watershed Management Project, widely known as KIIWP2. The programme will focus on expanding irrigation systems and strengthening watershed management across the district.

A major portion of the investment will benefit farmers in Kayonza District, where agriculture is a key source of livelihood. By improving irrigation infrastructure, the project will help ensure farmers have more reliable access to water. This is particularly important in a region where agricultural production is increasingly affected by climate variability. Better water management will allow farmers to maintain productivity while protecting vital natural resources.

The project also includes support for small livestock value chains. This will open up additional income opportunities for farming households and encourage diversification of rural livelihoods. By supporting multiple sources of income, the programme aims to strengthen the economic stability of rural communities.

Beyond improving agricultural infrastructure, the initiative is designed to tackle several broader challenges facing the sector. It seeks to reduce poverty, improve food security, strengthen climate resilience and increase incomes among rural populations. These goals align closely with Rwanda’s long term development priorities.

Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the Rwandan economy, but the sector faces growing pressures. Unpredictable weather patterns often disrupt harvests, while domestic production has struggled to keep pace with rising food demand. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, Rwanda’s agricultural imports averaged US$655mn annually between 2019 and 2021, compared with US$352.4mn between 2012 and 2014.

Alongside the IFAD support, the government has committed 75 billion Rwandan francs to the national agricultural input subsidy programme for the 2025 to 2026 farming season. This represents a 38.8 percent increase compared with the previous season.

IFAD has worked with Rwanda since 1981. By 2024, the organisation had co financed 21 rural development programmes, committing US$791mn and supporting more than US$1.5mn households.

These efforts also support the country’s Fifth Strategic Plan for Agriculture Transformation, known as PSTA 5, which runs from 2024 to 2029 and focuses on building sustainable and resilient agri food systems while strengthening food security and economic growth.

Turning the tide on post harvest loss in Tanzania.

Kenya Goes Digital: New Electronic Warehouse Receipt System Set to Reshape Agricultural Trade. (Image credit: State Department for Trade)

Technology

Understanding the shifting landscape of global agriculture.

Technology

Global agriculture continues to expand, yet the agricultural machinery market is navigating a period of turbulence.

Economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and shifting trade policies are reshaping where and how farm equipment is bought and sold. This evolving landscape was outlined during the press conference launching the 47th edition of EIMA International, the world’s leading exhibition for agricultural technologies, set to take place in Bologna from 10 to 14 November.

Mariateresa Maschio, FederUnacoma President, said, “Protectionist policies in some countries, economic sanctions, interference with trade routes, and tariff wars have led to market fragmentation and a sharp slowdown in trade which is weighing on the performance of the agromechanical sector.”

Traditional markets are feeling the strain. The United States recorded a 10 percent fall in tractor sales in 2025, while Germany, France and the United Kingdom also posted double digit declines. In contrast, southern Europe is showing renewed momentum. Italy and Spain both closed the year with strong growth, signalling cautious optimism within the European agricultural machinery industry.

India remains the standout performer. With tractor sales exceeding 1.1 million units, the country continues to dominate the global market. According to Maschio, this growth reflects deeper structural demand rather than a short term spike. “Over the past fifteen years, output in the primary sector has grown significantly,” said Mariateresa Maschio, “but to meet the needs of the world’s population it will have to grow by a further 14% by 2034, especially in India and in those countries of North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Middle East that are experiencing the highest demographic growth.”

A new geography of agricultural production is emerging, driven by mechanisation, digital farming solutions and expanding demand in Asia, Africa and Latin America. Chinese manufacturers are rapidly increasing their presence across these regions and even gaining ground in Europe.

“In the coming years we will have a highly segmented agromechanical sector, with low-cost basic technologies alongside highly advanced technologies for complex operations,” added Mariateresa Maschio, underlining the importance of innovation, policy support and international cooperation as the sector looks ahead.

Inchcape and NCBA collaborated to boost farm mechanisation in Kenya.(Image credit:

Africa steps up drive to transform farming through mechanisation. (Image credit: FAO)

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