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In The Spotlight

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.

ASF is one of the most serious diseases affecting pigs globally, with severe economic consequences for producers.

Pigs

UK pig producers are being strongly advised to review their biosecurity strategies and disease contingency plans following new outbreaks of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Spain.

While the immediate threat level to the UK has not changed, industry experts warn that the evolving ASF situation across Europe is a clear reminder of the need for constant preparedness.

Julian Sparrey, group technical director at Livetec Systems, said, “The cases in Spain are part of the ongoing ASF situation across Europe. They highlight the potential impact an outbreak could have here, and why producers must stay one step ahead of ASF and other disease threats.”

ASF is one of the most serious diseases affecting pigs globally, with severe economic consequences for producers. If the virus were detected in the UK, pig farms within designated restriction zones could face at least 40 days with no pig movements. Sparrey emphasises that producers must fully understand how such restrictions would affect pig flow, housing capacity, staffing levels and overall farm operations. He added, “Pressure-testing contingency plans now is critical to business resilience and to regaining disease freedom as quickly as possible.”

According to Sparrey, the most likely pathway for ASF to reach the UK remains contaminated, illegally imported or undeclared meat. As a result, producers are encouraged to reassess all possible on-farm transmission routes, including vehicle access, staff hygiene, visitor protocols, pig-to-pig contact and overall site layout.

“Effective biosecurity doesn’t always require major investment,” he explains. “Small, practical improvements can make a significant difference if they’re consistently applied.”

Wild boar populations and neighbouring pigs also pose a potential risk, particularly through nose-to-nose contact that can be difficult to monitor. “While ASF poses no risk to human health, it is highly contagious among pigs,” said Sparrey. “Measures such as double fencing to prevent incursions may be justified in higher-risk areas.”

Rare breed pig keepers are likewise urged to register their animals and maintain appropriate quarantine facilities, which could help reduce the likelihood of compulsory culling if circumstances permit.

Throughout the year, AHDB has worked alongside Livetec Systems and the National Pig Association (NPA) to deliver vet-led ASF preparedness workshops. Sparrey recommends external biosecurity audits to identify weak points. “It can be difficult to spot vulnerabilities on your own farm,” he says. “Regular biosecurity reviews allow producers to make steady improvements. We have time now and we should use it.”

Croptimus has attracted fresh investment from Venture X.

Agriculture

Egyptian agritech startup Croptimus has attracted fresh investment from Venture X, underscoring growing momentum behind climate-smart agriculture and sustainable food systems across the Middle East and Africa.

While the value of the deal remains undisclosed, the funding highlights sustained investor appetite for technologies that tackle food security, water scarcity and agricultural waste.

Established in 2021 by Ahmed Hassanein and Abdelrahman AlAtrash, Croptimus specialises in converting agricultural and food waste into high-value bio-products for farms and agribusinesses. Its portfolio includes biochar, bio-oil and activated oil, solutions designed to improve soil health, cut water consumption and reduce dependence on chemical fertilisers. By serving commercial players across the agricultural supply chain, the company has positioned itself at the centre of the region’s fast-evolving agritech ecosystem.

The new capital will support Croptimus’ plans to scale its proprietary technology and expand into additional regional and international markets. The startup is an alumnus of the Harvest Accelerator, a programme focused on advancing agricultural innovation and resilient food systems, which has helped move its solutions from pilot phase to commercial deployment.

Venture X said the investment reflects rising interest in agriculture, food security, and resource efficiency as climate pressure grows across emerging markets. Investors are increasingly prioritising waste-to-value and emissions-reduction models that also enhance farm productivity and profitability.

Farah Al-Nahhas said the deal brings a new investor group into the agritech space and could encourage more angel funding for early-stage startups. Hassanein said the partnership supports Croptimus' next phase of growth and broader deployment of its technology.

The deal comes as agritech funding across the Middle East and Africa continues to rise, driven by population growth, limited arable land and rising input costs. Egypt has emerged as a strategic base for agritech startups thanks to its large-scale farming sector, export-oriented agriculture and strong industrial infrastructure. With capital markets still cautious, investors are favouring startups like Croptimus that demonstrate clear use cases, measurable cost savings and scalable business-to-business models aligned with global sustainability goals.

African Farming

Without food safety, there is no food security

AF FEAGAccording to EatSafe research, pandemic safety measures has been widely adopted in traditional food markets in Bangladesh, Kenya, and Nigeria

In 2015, the WHO reported that more than 400,000 people died annually from food borne diseases. In 2018, the World Bank estimated that food safety costs US$110bn a year in lost productivity through illness and health costs, with sub-Sahara Africa affected the most. But more reliable and current data is required to understand consumer values and perceptions as well as the impact of poor food safety.

The Interview Cruncher was hosted by EatSafe, the five-year research and learning programme sponsored by USAID and led by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN). It was moderated by Bonnie McClafferty, director, Food Safety and EatSafe at GAIN.

The panel was made up of Mohamed Nasser, regional advisor Food Safety and Quality Assurance, World Food Programme, Dakar/Senegal; Prof Olugbenga Ben Ogunmoyela, executive director, Consumer Advocacy for Food Safety and Nutrition Initiative (CAFSANI); and Priya Prakash, founder and CEO of HealthSetGo and Youth Champion for Act4Food Act4Change.

Bonnie McClafferty, director, EatSafe, said, “The human and financial costs of poor food safety are appalling yet it is being widely ignored. That has to change and we need to take action now to achieve better health outcomes for the 600 million people who each year get sick from unsafe food.”

“We know the pandemic has promoted new food hygiene practices that can have a positive impact on food safety in traditional markets. EatSafe’s research shows that there is a lot more to do. We’re calling on governments and donor groups to provide resources and further research so that evidence-based decisions about food safety measures can be taken to strengthen traditional markets, to ensure safer foods,” continued McClafferty.

Traditional food market vendors apply COVID-19 measures

In parallel to EatSafe’s core mission of engaging consumers to demand food safety, the programme recently expanded efforts to include gathering key data from traditional markets to understand how they have been impacted by COVID-19 through GAIN’s Keeping Food Markets Working programme. EatSafe is interested in what is needed to ensure the availability of affordable, safe, nutritious food during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data was collected from traditional food markets in Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia and Bangladesh bi-weekly during the last quarter 2020. Interviews and focus groups are continuing throughout 2021 to learn how consumer behaviour has changed and how resilient the traditional market supply chains are.

“We can build on the fact that safety measures are now a reality in people’s lives. With better surveillance and education regarding food safety measures, consumers getting their foods from traditional markets can help create an enabling environment to start closing the system's gaps and upgrading markets to support the safety of foods,” concluded McClafferty. 

Top Stories

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

ASF is one of the most serious diseases affecting pigs globally, with severe economic consequences for producers.

Pigs

UK pig producers are being strongly advised to review their biosecurity strategies and disease contingency plans following new outbreaks of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Spain.

While the immediate threat level to the UK has not changed, industry experts warn that the evolving ASF situation across Europe is a clear reminder of the need for constant preparedness.

Julian Sparrey, group technical director at Livetec Systems, said, “The cases in Spain are part of the ongoing ASF situation across Europe. They highlight the potential impact an outbreak could have here, and why producers must stay one step ahead of ASF and other disease threats.”

ASF is one of the most serious diseases affecting pigs globally, with severe economic consequences for producers. If the virus were detected in the UK, pig farms within designated restriction zones could face at least 40 days with no pig movements. Sparrey emphasises that producers must fully understand how such restrictions would affect pig flow, housing capacity, staffing levels and overall farm operations. He added, “Pressure-testing contingency plans now is critical to business resilience and to regaining disease freedom as quickly as possible.”

According to Sparrey, the most likely pathway for ASF to reach the UK remains contaminated, illegally imported or undeclared meat. As a result, producers are encouraged to reassess all possible on-farm transmission routes, including vehicle access, staff hygiene, visitor protocols, pig-to-pig contact and overall site layout.

“Effective biosecurity doesn’t always require major investment,” he explains. “Small, practical improvements can make a significant difference if they’re consistently applied.”

Wild boar populations and neighbouring pigs also pose a potential risk, particularly through nose-to-nose contact that can be difficult to monitor. “While ASF poses no risk to human health, it is highly contagious among pigs,” said Sparrey. “Measures such as double fencing to prevent incursions may be justified in higher-risk areas.”

Rare breed pig keepers are likewise urged to register their animals and maintain appropriate quarantine facilities, which could help reduce the likelihood of compulsory culling if circumstances permit.

Throughout the year, AHDB has worked alongside Livetec Systems and the National Pig Association (NPA) to deliver vet-led ASF preparedness workshops. Sparrey recommends external biosecurity audits to identify weak points. “It can be difficult to spot vulnerabilities on your own farm,” he says. “Regular biosecurity reviews allow producers to make steady improvements. We have time now and we should use it.”

Livestock Ministry supports women and youth in development agenda.

Crops

Croptimus has attracted fresh investment from Venture X.

Agriculture

Egyptian agritech startup Croptimus has attracted fresh investment from Venture X, underscoring growing momentum behind climate-smart agriculture and sustainable food systems across the Middle East and Africa.

While the value of the deal remains undisclosed, the funding highlights sustained investor appetite for technologies that tackle food security, water scarcity and agricultural waste.

Established in 2021 by Ahmed Hassanein and Abdelrahman AlAtrash, Croptimus specialises in converting agricultural and food waste into high-value bio-products for farms and agribusinesses. Its portfolio includes biochar, bio-oil and activated oil, solutions designed to improve soil health, cut water consumption and reduce dependence on chemical fertilisers. By serving commercial players across the agricultural supply chain, the company has positioned itself at the centre of the region’s fast-evolving agritech ecosystem.

The new capital will support Croptimus’ plans to scale its proprietary technology and expand into additional regional and international markets. The startup is an alumnus of the Harvest Accelerator, a programme focused on advancing agricultural innovation and resilient food systems, which has helped move its solutions from pilot phase to commercial deployment.

Venture X said the investment reflects rising interest in agriculture, food security, and resource efficiency as climate pressure grows across emerging markets. Investors are increasingly prioritising waste-to-value and emissions-reduction models that also enhance farm productivity and profitability.

Farah Al-Nahhas said the deal brings a new investor group into the agritech space and could encourage more angel funding for early-stage startups. Hassanein said the partnership supports Croptimus' next phase of growth and broader deployment of its technology.

The deal comes as agritech funding across the Middle East and Africa continues to rise, driven by population growth, limited arable land and rising input costs. Egypt has emerged as a strategic base for agritech startups thanks to its large-scale farming sector, export-oriented agriculture and strong industrial infrastructure. With capital markets still cautious, investors are favouring startups like Croptimus that demonstrate clear use cases, measurable cost savings and scalable business-to-business models aligned with global sustainability goals.

Nigeria is strengthening its domestic production base through land expansion and fresh investment under the second phase of the National Sugar Master Plan (NSMP).

The development signals a major shift in the country’s agricultural trade policy.

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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