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In The Spotlight

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)

Event News

VIV MEA 2025 has concluded on a high note, reinforcing its status as the leading feed-to-food B2B trade platform for the Middle East and Africa.

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.

Held from November 25–27, 2025 at ADNEC, Abu Dhabi, the event welcomed 10,830 professional visitors and 144 industry leaders from more than 110 countries. A total of 505 exhibitors from 49 countries showcased cutting-edge technologies and solutions spanning animal protein production, animal health, breeding and hatching, croptech, feedtech, food engineering, feed ingredients and additives, aquaculture and allied sectors.

Over three intensive days, VIV MEA 2025 served as a dynamic marketplace for knowledge exchange, business development and strategic partnerships. Industry stakeholders explored emerging trends shaping the future of livestock, poultry, dairy and aquaculture, while decision-makers connected with innovators driving efficiency, sustainability and resilience across the feed-to-food value chain.

A key strength of the event was its strategic partnership with the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), underscoring a shared commitment to food safety, sustainable agriculture and regional food security. Majed Musabah Almemari, Hay Supply and Storage Section Head at ADAFSA, said, “Supporting VIV MEA 2025 gave ADAFSA valuable opportunities to strengthen its role across the feed-to-food value chain. The event enabled our teams to engage directly with international experts, learn about the latest technologies, and exchange knowledge on food safety, animal health, and sustainable farming.”

He added, “It also enhanced collaboration with global and regional industry partners, opening doors for joint initiatives and innovation projects. Overall, participating in VIV MEA helped us benchmark our practices, adopt new ideas, and reinforce Abu Dhabi’s leadership in applying advanced and sustainable agricultural solutions.”

VIV MEA 2025 also stood out as a world-class hub for regional food security, covering the full spectrum of animal husbandry, including poultry, dairy, fish, shrimp, eggs, cattle, goats and camels. International participation increased significantly, with major pavilions from the United States, Korea and France, which hosted the largest national pavilion. The exhibition floor was fully sold out, highlighting the event’s growing relevance.

 Anne-Marie Brault, Business France - French pavilion for agriculture said,“The French Pavilion at VIV MEA 2025 embodies France’s strategic ambition to strengthen economic ties and foster trade partnerships across the MENA region. By showcasing the excellence of French agrifood companies, we aim to create synergies that accelerate growth, open new markets, and deliver sustainable solutions for global food security. This event is a cornerstone for building long-term collaborations that reinforce France’s leadership in animal production and innovation worldwide.” 

Ottevanger Services provides comprehensive support to feed producers. (Image credit: Ottevanger)

Agriculture

Triott Group has announced a major strategic step by bringing all its feed-related businesses together under a single, globally recognised name: Ottevanger.

With immediate effect, Ottevanger, Almex, Inteqnion, IVS Dosing Technology and Pelleting Technology Netherlands (PTN) will operate as one unified brand, reinforcing Ottevanger’s position as a leading global partner to the feed industry.

Based in Moerkapelle, the Netherlands, this consolidation represents a new chapter in Ottevanger’s long-term vision to provide complete, future-ready solutions for feed mills worldwide. By integrating these specialist companies under one name, customers benefit from a single point of contact, enhanced transparency and a more streamlined approach to project delivery and long-term collaboration.

The move also strengthens internal cooperation across disciplines, enabling Ottevanger to design and deliver tailored solutions that respond to the rapidly evolving demands of the global feed sector, including automation, digitalisation and sustainability.

Following the consolidation, Ottevanger now operates through four fully integrated business units, each designed to address both current operational challenges and future industry needs. Ottevanger Milling Engineers focuses on the design and construction of fully automated, turnkey feed mills, including both conventional and modular concepts. Ottevanger Process Solutions delivers high-quality equipment and advanced processes, supporting data-driven, fully automated milling from raw material intake through to packaging.

Meanwhile, Ottevanger Services provides comprehensive support to feed producers, including reliable on-site and remote maintenance, troubleshooting and spare parts supply. Completing the structure, the Ottevanger Development Centre looks to the future by optimising feed mill performance through practical research and development, testing and the creation of sustainable, next-generation solutions.

Commenting on the milestone, Director Ernst Jan Ottevanger said: “For more than a century, Ottevanger has been a family business, built on the finest Dutch quality and craftsmanship. Now we are formally extending our family to welcome these four trusted partners that have already contributed so much to our collective success based on the same shared values.” He added: “This is a significant moment for our company, but more importantly, for our customers worldwide. We are now far better placed to deliver the innovation and lifetime value they need to compete more effectively.”

Ottevanger will continue its close collaboration with Top Silo Constructions (TSC) to deliver advanced feed storage solutions, while TSC remains independent due to its diverse customer portfolio.

Cattle

Tanzania’s Kagera region is stepping up efforts to attract investment into dairy and beef production as part of a wider strategy to unlock its vast livestock potential and respond to rapidly growing demand for animal protein at both national and regional levels.

The renewed push was articulated by the Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Bashiru Ally, during a working visit to a Farmers’ Field School in Muleba district.

Dr Ally underscored the importance of scaling up the production of high-quality animal feed, describing it as a critical driver for increasing milk and meat output. He pointed to Kagera’s strong natural advantages, including abundant pasture, reliable water resources and a strategic location within the Great Lakes region, positioning the area as a prime destination for commercial livestock investment.

Highlighting opportunities beyond traditional smallholder systems, the minister said targeted investments in productivity, modern technology and supporting infrastructure could significantly boost returns across the dairy and beef value chains. “Kagera region has a good climate that can be a source of quality beef and ranching,” he stated, noting that the presence of existing commercial ranches offers a solid foundation for public–private partnerships to enhance efficiency and scale.

The minister also encouraged farmers to embrace modern dairy production models, cautioning against maintaining large herds of low-yield cattle. Instead, he advocated for productivity-focused systems that improve profitability, food security and household incomes. The dairy sector, he noted, is central to Tanzania’s broader goals of industrialisation, nutrition improvement and inclusive economic growth.

Official projections indicate that Tanzania’s demand for meat could triple by 2030, driven by population growth, urbanisation and rising incomes across Africa. Current livestock supply, however, remains inadequate, underscoring the need for significant investment in ranches, feedlots, abattoirs, meat processing facilities and tanneries. Despite recent export gains, Tanzania recorded meat exports of just 14,000 metric tonnes in 2024, far below the national target of 50,000 metric tonnes.

To address these gaps, Kagera authorities have earmarked about 66,215 hectares under the Mwisa II Project for dairy industry development. Investors are being encouraged to establish milk, beef and hides processing plants, leveraging the region’s extensive pastureland and infrastructure, including five National Ranching Company (NARCO) ranches. Despite its livestock resources, Kagera currently contributes only 7.6 per cent to Tanzania’s GDP, highlighting significant untapped potential for agribusiness-led growth.

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." 

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Grid List

Event News

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

Event News

HortiFlora Ethiopia 2026 is set to return with even greater momentum, reflecting the rising global interest in Ethiopia’s flourishing horticulture and floriculture industry.

With its transition from a biennial format to an annual international trade show, the event aims to strengthen global connectivity, boost export opportunities, and further position Ethiopia as a leading producer of flowers, fruits, and vegetables on the world stage.

The venue for this major international event will be the Addis International Convention Center (AICC), located in Lemi Kura Sub City, Woreda 13, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia—an accessible and modern hub for global business gatherings.

Organised by HPP Worldwide, the highly respected global exhibition organiser, HortiFlora Ethiopia has grown remarkably over the past two decades, supported by the Ethiopian Horticulture Producers Exporters Association (EHPEA). Reflecting on the notable success of the 2025 edition, Dick Van Raamsdonk of HPP Worldwide shared:
“Given the increasing international interest and significance of the event, HortiFlora will now have a transition from a biennial trade show to an annual one.”

The 2025 edition, held from April 1–3, achieved outstanding results with a record 140 exhibitors, elegantly designed stands, and strong visitor turnout. Van Raamsdonk added, “It was a highly successful event, featuring a record-breaking 140 exhibitors, stunning stands, and a consistent flow of visitors, including a strong international presence, particularly from the Middle East.”

A key highlight this year was the expanded product showcase. “The inclusion of fruit and vegetable growers alongside the traditional floral exhibitors significantly expanded the event’s scope,” Van Raamsdonk explained. This diversification underscores Ethiopia’s growing export potential in fresh produce, making the exhibition a comprehensive platform for the entire horticultural value chain.

The decision to transition HortiFlora Ethiopia into an annual gathering reflects the sector’s increasing importance. Van Raamsdonk emphasised that more frequent engagement is vital to support innovation, strengthen trade relationships, and accelerate industry growth. He stated, “With Ethiopia’s rising production of fresh flowers, fruits, and vegetables, an annual event will further strengthen the country’s export potential, stimulate its economy, and foster continued growth in the horticultural sector’s employment.”

HortiFlora Ethiopia 2026 promises to offer global exhibitors and buyers an unmatched platform for networking, market insights, product showcases, and business expansion.

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)

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

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

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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