cc.web.local
Far Eastern Agriculture

In The Spotlight

Sayyad Poultry is producing broiler chicks since 1970. (Image source: Aviagen)

Poultry

Aviagen Turkiye, Middle East & Africa (TMEA) is celebrating a significant milestone with its long-standing distributor in Syria, Sayyad Poultry, which marks 30 years as an authorised distributor of the Ross 308

The anniversary reflects three decades of collaboration built on trust, resilience and a shared commitment to supporting the poultry industry in Syria.

Having entered the poultry industry in 1970 producing broiler chicks, Sayyad Poultry earned a strong reputation for quality and professionalism. By the late 1990s, that reputation led to an important milestone when the company received its first Ross 308 Grandparent (GP) shipment, establishing the formal relationship with Aviagen that continues today.

Over the past 30 years, Sayyad Poultry has played an important role in supplying high-quality Ross 308 breeding stock to producers throughout Syria. Despite periods of economic uncertainty and regional conflict, the company has remained committed to maintaining high standards of flock health, biosecurity and customer support, helping poultry producers continue to succeed under challenging conditions.

“Our longstanding collaboration is a testament to the strength of our relationship and the shared values that have guided us throughout the years,” said Bulent Tanyildizi, business manager - Middle East & North Africa (MENA). “Their resilience, professionalism and unwavering commitment to supporting poultry producers, even during the most challenging circumstances, have made them an invaluable part of the Aviagen family. We look forward to continuing our collaboration for many years to come.”

The Ross 308 has played an important role in that relationship, delivering consistent performance that has supported Sayyad Poultry’s growth and success. Renowned for delivering reliable results under demanding regional conditions, the Ross 308 has enabled the company to expand from broiler production into GP and parent stock (PS) operations, while continuing to provide customers with confidence in their flock performance.

One of Sayyad Poultry’s proudest achievements has been maintaining disease-free, flocks and high standards of biosecurity throughout periods of regional instability, while rebuilding and expanding its operations to meet the country’s growing parent stock requirements. Throughout the changing needs of the poultry industry, Sayyad Poultry has remained focused on delivering reliable genetics while supporting food security and the long-term success of its customers.

Reflecting on the milestone, Ghaleb Sayyad, Owner, Sayyad Poultry commented, “For the past 30 years, the Ross 308 has been the backbone of our business. Its consistent performance and Aviagen’s ongoing support have given us the confidence to grow, even during the most challenging times. Together, we have supplied outstanding genetics, supported our customers and contributed to strengthening Syria’s poultry industry. We are proud of what we have achieved together and look forward to building on this success.”

Looking ahead, Sayyad Poultry continues to invest in expanding its infrastructure to meet increasing demand for parent stock while strengthening its contribution to national food security. The company is also extending its distribution activities into Lebanon, alongside continued investment in new facilities to support sustainable long-term growth.

As Aviagen and Sayyad Poultry celebrate this important anniversary, their relationship stands as a testament to the value of trusted collaboration, resilient operations and a shared commitment to helping poultry producers succeed. Together, both organisations remain focused on delivering high-quality genetics, expertise and customer support that will continue to support Syria’s poultry industry for generations to come.

The Kigali Convention Centre will host VIV Africa 2026. (Image source: VNU Exhibition)

Event News

Rwanda's capital is about to become the epicentre of East Africa's agrifood conversation

From 7 to 8 October, the Kigali Convention Centre will host VIV Africa 2026, preceded by a Leadership Conference on 6 October that sets the tone for two days of dealmaking across the feed to food value chain.

What makes this edition worth watching isn't just the scale, it's who's in the room. Around 150 exhibitors are expected on the floor, spanning five sectors that mirror the industry's full journey: Animal Health, Feed Ingredients & Additives, Processing, Farm Production, and Feed & Grain Technology, plus a growing Dairy Pavilion rounding things out. Each sector reflects where the region's investment is flowing, from biosecurity to milling technology built for scale.

Names like Ceva/Laprovet, Aviagen, Big Dutchman, Cargill, De Heus and Bühler sit alongside a deep bench of regional specialists, companies like Soproda Poultry Feed, MG2Mix Premix Nutrition and Hy-Line/Kenchic/Hybrid, a mix that speaks to VIV Africa's real value proposition: global technology meeting local expertise, in the same hall, at the same time. That pairing matters in a market where imported equipment often needs adapting to local climates and infrastructure, and the specialists best placed to do that are usually based down the road rather than overseas.

That's echoed in the visitor mix too. Farm owners, feed millers, veterinarians, processors, distributors and investors are expected to walk the floor, many steered toward exhibitors through two structured programs: the Investment & Market Access Forum, pairing investors and policymakers with regional businesses, and the Hosted Buyer Program, scheduling direct introductions between senior purchasers and exhibitors. It's a format built for efficiency, less wandering, more matchmaking.

Rwanda's own agriculture sector is woven into the show rather than sitting on its sidelines. The Rwanda Poultry Industry Association and the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources have both been closely involved in shaping the event, and local exhibitors and delegates will be present throughout, a signal that VIV Africa is as much about strengthening the host country's own industry as it is about drawing in the international crowd.

For those wanting more than the trade floor, the Technical Best Practice Seminar program runs alongside the exhibition, covering topics from feed efficiency modelling to gut health in broiler production. The Leadership Conference, held the day before, tackles the bigger picture: market outlook, poultry sector transformation and animal health, giving investors and policymakers a forum to set the agenda before the floor opens for business.

Registration is open now at africa.viv.net and early sign-up comes with a practical perk: a free badge plus shorter onsite queues. Visitors also have access to the exhibitor list and program via the website, so visitors can map out their two days in Kigali before they land.

The delegation examined intelligent seedling equipment.

Agriculture

As part of China-Africa cooperation programme, more than 10 experts and scholars from South Africa visited Jinhua in East China's Zhejiang province to explore the city's development and achievements, with their itinerary also comprising Wuzhou Ancient City and the China-Africa (Jinhua) Agricultural Science and Innovation Park

The delegation examined intelligent seedling equipment and took a tour of the China-Africa Agricultural Science and Technology Exchange Center. They got to see firsthand Jinhua's agricultural innovation capabilities.

At the China-Africa (Jinhua) Agricultural Science and Innovation Park in Changshan township, Wucheng district, the delegation sampled specialty agricultural products such as lotus seeds and sweet potatoes cultivated by the Jinhua Academy of Agricultural Sciences. These were meant for consumption like fruits, and were highly appreciated. China-Africa agricultural cooperation were explored through insightful exchanges on modern agricultural technologies.

This visit is part of the lead-up to the 2026 China-South Africa Seminar on Human Rights in Hangzhou. Before the seminar, participants have conducted field visits in Jinhua and Hangzhou to deepen their understanding of local advancements and collaborative efforts in agriculture.

VIV Africa
ATR_Inhouse_SS_010926_300926

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

Visitors can check out the latest developments in robotics. (Image source: EuroTier)

Event News

Prominent livestock platform, DLG Spotlights at EuroTier 2026 in Hanover, Germany, will shed light on innovations and future-focused developments across the livestock sector

From 10 to 13 November, visitors can check out the latest developments in robotics, emission reduction and forage production. Selected breeding animals will be exhibited live for the 'TopTierTreff' (Top Genetics). Such live demonstrations and curated special exhibitions will unlock futuristic ideas for innovative technologies, processes and concepts designed to make livestock farming more efficient, sustainable and animal-friendly.

A robust technical programme will include lectures, panel discussions and networking formats covering all key areas of livestock production and related energy sectors.

Manufacturers of advanced milking technology will showcase automation in modern dairy farming with the latest robotic solutions for automated milking systems or share visionary barn construction blueprints at the Barn Robot Event. Conventional milking parlors are gradually becoming a thing of the past replaced by conversion concepts based on robotic systems. Milking large dairy herds are no more a labour-intensive job with the support of advanced technologies. While future-oriented, these concepts will be grounded in their easy facilitation in real life situations.

For Emission Reduction, visitors can expect live demonstrations of seamless integration of livestock farming and climate protection. With expert stages for pigs and poultry lying adjacent to the emission reduction pavilion, visitors can expect insights on sustainable practices especially in these two areas.

The Top Genetics display will unite breeders from home and abroad, with breeding companies talking about strategies, fostering knowledge-sharing, particularly in dairy and beef cattle breeding. The event organisers have arranged for a large panoramic video screen this year so that the animals exhibited on stand reach far and wide. 

Spotlight on 'Forage Production' will promote smart farming technologies that can revolutionise the quality of maize silage, grass silage and hay throughout the entire production chain, from harvesting to ensiling and storage. This offering will be complemented by the new “Forage Days”, taking place on 12 and 13 November. During these special theme days, the DLG Expert Stage Cattle, as part of the Forage Production Spotlight, will focus on the production of high-quality forage and its targeted use in ruminant nutrition.

The 'Innovation Boulevard' that will be a new addition this year, will feature products recognised with the Innovation Award, alongside other notable innovations in animal farming, feed, management and technology. Visitors will gain a concise overview of the latest developments and then have the opportunity to meet the product developers directly at their exhibition stands for more in-depth discussions. 

The Kigali Convention Centre will host VIV Africa 2026. (Image source: VNU Exhibition)

Biosecurity practices can boost overall performance even at a low cost for pig producers. (Image source: DLG)

Livestock

Sayyad Poultry is producing broiler chicks since 1970. (Image source: Aviagen)

Poultry

Aviagen Turkiye, Middle East & Africa (TMEA) is celebrating a significant milestone with its long-standing distributor in Syria, Sayyad Poultry, which marks 30 years as an authorised distributor of the Ross 308

The anniversary reflects three decades of collaboration built on trust, resilience and a shared commitment to supporting the poultry industry in Syria.

Having entered the poultry industry in 1970 producing broiler chicks, Sayyad Poultry earned a strong reputation for quality and professionalism. By the late 1990s, that reputation led to an important milestone when the company received its first Ross 308 Grandparent (GP) shipment, establishing the formal relationship with Aviagen that continues today.

Over the past 30 years, Sayyad Poultry has played an important role in supplying high-quality Ross 308 breeding stock to producers throughout Syria. Despite periods of economic uncertainty and regional conflict, the company has remained committed to maintaining high standards of flock health, biosecurity and customer support, helping poultry producers continue to succeed under challenging conditions.

“Our longstanding collaboration is a testament to the strength of our relationship and the shared values that have guided us throughout the years,” said Bulent Tanyildizi, business manager - Middle East & North Africa (MENA). “Their resilience, professionalism and unwavering commitment to supporting poultry producers, even during the most challenging circumstances, have made them an invaluable part of the Aviagen family. We look forward to continuing our collaboration for many years to come.”

The Ross 308 has played an important role in that relationship, delivering consistent performance that has supported Sayyad Poultry’s growth and success. Renowned for delivering reliable results under demanding regional conditions, the Ross 308 has enabled the company to expand from broiler production into GP and parent stock (PS) operations, while continuing to provide customers with confidence in their flock performance.

One of Sayyad Poultry’s proudest achievements has been maintaining disease-free, flocks and high standards of biosecurity throughout periods of regional instability, while rebuilding and expanding its operations to meet the country’s growing parent stock requirements. Throughout the changing needs of the poultry industry, Sayyad Poultry has remained focused on delivering reliable genetics while supporting food security and the long-term success of its customers.

Reflecting on the milestone, Ghaleb Sayyad, Owner, Sayyad Poultry commented, “For the past 30 years, the Ross 308 has been the backbone of our business. Its consistent performance and Aviagen’s ongoing support have given us the confidence to grow, even during the most challenging times. Together, we have supplied outstanding genetics, supported our customers and contributed to strengthening Syria’s poultry industry. We are proud of what we have achieved together and look forward to building on this success.”

Looking ahead, Sayyad Poultry continues to invest in expanding its infrastructure to meet increasing demand for parent stock while strengthening its contribution to national food security. The company is also extending its distribution activities into Lebanon, alongside continued investment in new facilities to support sustainable long-term growth.

As Aviagen and Sayyad Poultry celebrate this important anniversary, their relationship stands as a testament to the value of trusted collaboration, resilient operations and a shared commitment to helping poultry producers succeed. Together, both organisations remain focused on delivering high-quality genetics, expertise and customer support that will continue to support Syria’s poultry industry for generations to come.

The organisation arranges for livestock owners customised vaccination.

Retech provides integrated automated layer farming systems.

Crops

The LARACI project will enhance soil carbon sequestration.

Agriculture

Ivory Coast has secured US$50mn from the Green Climate Fund to support the Ministry of Environment and Ecological Transition-led LARACI project, also known as Strengthening Sustainable Land Management and Climate-Resilient Agri-Food Systems in Ivory Coast

The five-year programme set to be implemented across regions adversely impacted by climate change is scaled to directly impact 147,000 people.

While cocoa has given Ivory Coast its global name, it has come at the huge environmental cost of deforestation. Regions like N’Zi, Moronou, Iffou, Me and Gbeke have bore the brunt with rising temperatures, rainfall variability, droughts, floods, and climate-induced pest pressure, among other climate adversities. Cocoa fame has also overshadowed rice, cassava and yam production, which were left neglected and underfinanced even though a good 48 per cent of the population depends upon these crops to make a living. 

The LARACI project has identified these crops to restore their production with climate smart agricultural practices based on a three-point agenda:

- Introducing agrometeorological advisory services and advancing climate-aligned finance to build a national foundation for climate-resilient agriculture 

- Boost agroforestry and sustainable land management to reduce emissions and enhance soil carbon sequestration

- Leverage technology to support underfinanced crop production by fostering inclusive growth for women and youth

The project will also reduce emissions of 606,212 tCO₂eq over the five-year implementation period, and around 3.8 million tCO₂eq over a twenty-year lifespan. 

Approved at the Green Climate Fund’s 45th board meeting in Dushanbe, the LARACI project will be implemented by FIRCA as CGIAR act as the entity accredited to the fund. AfricaRice will also be one of the contributors of the project. 

Ivory Coast's national priorities on sustainability, especially climate finance initiatives, have drawn global traction, with Abidjan selected as the host country for Green Climate Fund’s Africa regional office.

Ecovado's plant will be driven by the Alfa Laval processing line.

The delegation examined intelligent seedling equipment.

Technology

The range is purpose-built for mixed farming operations. (Image source: New Holland)

Machinery & Equipment

Farmers are required to attend multiple tasks of varied nature throughout the day, which can get challenging without technical support

Keeping this in mind, New Holland has designed the T7 Standard Wheelbase tractor range, which can be used across operations from loader work and livestock activities to hay production, transport or paddock applications. 

Purpose-built for mixed farming operations, these compact-dimensioned tractors are versatile enough to suit everyday farm tasks even when maintaining the performance, comfort and technology that are usually offered by large-scale vehicles.

"Mixed farming businesses need tractors that can handle a range of jobs across the day," said Seamus McCarthy, New Holland's product manager.

"The new T7 Standard Wheelbase delivers more lifting capacity, greater carrying capacity and a tighter turning circle, giving operators more flexibility without sacrificing manoeuvrability." 

The T7 Standard Wheelbase is a refurbished range with a new front axle and front-end architecture, reducing the turning circle by 20 per cent compared with the previous generation. This is a marked improvement of manoeuvrability in yards, sheds, feedlots and headlands, allowing flexibility in confined spaces and around the farm.

New Holland has deployed for the range its latest transmission technology, including the new three-range Auto Command CVT, delivering up to 10 per cent greater operating efficiency. The Dynamic Command transmission, on the other hand, is designed to optimise power transfer and productivity across a range of applications.

Operating capacity has increased significantly, with maximum permissible gross vehicle mass rising 17 per cent to 13,500kg and rear linkage lift capacity increasing 20 per cent to 7,450kg at 610mm behind the ball ends. The upgraded platform also delivers a payload capacity of 5.5 tonnes, providing greater flexibility when handling larger implements and heavier loads.

"We've increased both the lifting and carrying capability of the machine, while maintaining the compact dimensions and manoeuvrability that have made the Standard Wheelbase platform so popular," McCarthy said.

"That gives operators more flexibility across a broader range of jobs without sacrificing ease of operation."

In terms of comfort, cab noise has reduced from 71dBA to 68dBA and a new 270-degree front windscreen wiper now provides a 64 per cent increase in coverage compared with the previous generation.

The new Horizon cab features New Holland's latest SideWinder armrest, integrated connectivity and access to the FieldOps platform, enabling operators to manage machine and agronomic data from a single system. ISOBUS compatibility and precision farming technology further support productivity and decision-making across the farm.

The T7 Standard Wheelbase are available in T7.190, T7.210 and T7.225 models.

Zoomlion's participation is part of a broader Hunan business delegation.

The plant in Congo assembles models of 75 and 130 horsepower.

More Articles