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
In The Spotlight

According to regulatory reports, two guidelines were developed to ensure quality assurance for vegetables and potato seeds. (Image source: Ministry of Information Eritrea)
The Regulatory Services Department of the Ministry of Agriculture reported significant progress in agricultural inspections conducted in 2024
Tekleab Misghina, director of General of Regulatory Services, stated that the department, through regional inspectors, has worked diligently to ensure the safety of animal and plant-based food products before they enter the market. Efforts were also made to maintain a proper food processing chain and prevent cross-contamination across 18 food and processing plants.
Mr. Tekleab further noted that around 23 tons of obsolete agro-chemicals were safely disposed of in collaboration with relevant government institutions, with an additional 140 tons awaiting disposal. The Seed Release Committee, overseen by the Regulatory Services, conducted inspection tours of various farmlands to verify the quality of basic seeds under multiplication.
According to regulatory reports, two guidelines were developed to ensure quality assurance for vegetables and potato seeds. The department also conducted salinity inspections on irrigation farms in Forto-Sawa and Dige, confirming that no salinity issues were detected.
Tekleab emphasised that the department organised extensive awareness campaigns, including meetings, workshops, and conferences, attended by approximately 2,700 participants.

The WFP Innovation Accelerator supports bold and transformative solutions to address food insecurity. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Leader in soil and water conservation technology, Desert Control AS has been selected to join the United Nations World Food Programme’s (WFP) Innovation Accelerator SPRINT Programme
Our participation in this programme aims to pilot the innovative Liquid Natural Clay (LNC) technology in Iraq, focusing on sustainable food production and efficient water resource management. Funded by a grant from the WFP Innovation Accelerator, the six-month pilot will be executed in collaboration with Desert Control’s regional partner, Soyl and the WFP Iraq Country Office. The project will target the enablement of agricultural cultivation under harsh desert conditions at a site managed by the Iraqi Ministry of Agriculture’s Department of Forestry and Combating Desertification. The initiative aims to demonstrate LNC's capacity to improve soil health, reduce water consumption, and convert low-value agricultural land into fertile areas suitable for high-value crops.
"Iraq has been grappling with environmental challenges such as drought, desertification, and water scarcity, which jeopardise food production and community livelihoods," said Ole Kristian Sivertsen, CEO of Desert Control. "Being part of the WFP Innovation Accelerator Programme enables us to develop a blueprint for drought response and resilience, utilising our innovation to transform degraded land into fertile soil. By enhancing agricultural productivity under water-limited conditions, we empower communities to manage their resources sustainably and contribute to global food security."
The WFP Innovation Accelerator supports bold and transformative solutions to address food insecurity. Its SPRINT Programme (Sustainable Product Innovation & Technology) offers seed funding, hands-on project management and access to WFP’s expert networks. Desert Control’s involvement aligns with WFP’s mission to eradicate hunger and achieve Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger).
"By leveraging innovative solutions like Liquid Natural Clay, we aim to tackle the root causes of food insecurity while building resilience in regions most affected by climate change and resource scarcity," said Bernhard Kowatsch, head of the WFP Innovation Accelerator. "We look forward to Desert Control and Soyl joining our programme to explore the potential of this technology to unlock sustainable food production."
Kashif Shamsi, group CEO of Mawarid Holding, parent company of Soyl, expressed: "As a group deeply committed to the conservation of natural resources, we are honored to work with Desert Control and WFP as the implementation partner for this groundbreaking initiative. This innovation programme holds immense potential to create lasting impact, transforming how communities in arid regions can sustainably cultivate their lands and achieve food security, which can become a global blueprint for solutions to end hunger."
The project plans to demonstrate the innovation’s impact on agricultural crops, including olive trees, pistachio, and windbreak varieties in sandy soils, with performance monitored against designated control areas. Success metrics encompass reduced water usage, improved tree survival rates, and observable plant and ecosystem health enhancements.
"Through participating in this programme, we aim to demonstrate how marginal land and sandy soils can be transformed into productive agricultural land, contributing to food security and sustainable economic development," Sivertsen added. "Our mission is clear: soil health leads to healthy plants with less pressure on natural resources, which support healthy food, healthy people, and, ultimately, a healthy planet. We aim to make earth green again by delivering innovations that secure the future of humanity and the resources we depend on, and we are proud to work with the WFP team to drive meaningful impact on this mission."

The 2025 Hortiflora Expo is anticipated to surpass 2023’s event, with even more exhibitors and larger booths showcasing a broader array of flowers and fresh produce. (Image source: HortiFlora)
The next edition of Ethiopia’s premier international horticulture and floriculture trade fair 'HortiFlora' has been announced and is set to take place from 1-3 April 2025
The previous event, held in 2023, concluded with strong outcomes for both exhibitors and attendees, marking a significant return after a four-year hiatus. Nearly 100 companies participated, drawing a robust turnout of international buyers eager to explore Ethiopia’s offerings for export.
The 2025 Hortiflora Expo is anticipated to surpass 2023’s event, with even more exhibitors and larger booths showcasing a broader array of flowers and fresh produce.
Additionally, with the Ethiopian Birr now a free-floating currency, Ethiopian exports have gained a competitive edge, enhancing the country’s appeal as a business destination. This currency shift is expected to draw even more international buyers next April, eager to source high-quality fresh flowers and produce from Ethiopia.
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The 2025 Hortiflora Expo is anticipated to surpass 2023’s event, with even more exhibitors and larger booths showcasing a broader array of flowers and fresh produce. (Image source: HortiFlora)
The next edition of Ethiopia’s premier international horticulture and floriculture trade fair 'HortiFlora' has been announced and is set to take place from 1-3 April 2025
The previous event, held in 2023, concluded with strong outcomes for both exhibitors and attendees, marking a significant return after a four-year hiatus. Nearly 100 companies participated, drawing a robust turnout of international buyers eager to explore Ethiopia’s offerings for export.
The 2025 Hortiflora Expo is anticipated to surpass 2023’s event, with even more exhibitors and larger booths showcasing a broader array of flowers and fresh produce.
Additionally, with the Ethiopian Birr now a free-floating currency, Ethiopian exports have gained a competitive edge, enhancing the country’s appeal as a business destination. This currency shift is expected to draw even more international buyers next April, eager to source high-quality fresh flowers and produce from Ethiopia.
Wadi Group recently held its tenth Wadi Poultry Academy from 18-21 November at the Hyatt Regency in West Cairo, Egypt
Wadi Group has been a Ross 308 Parent Stock (PS) distributor in Egypt since 1992, and the Aviagen Ross customer support team have contributed to the Wadi Poultry Academy since it began in 2017. A total of 180 participants from across the country attended the event, where they received advice on key subjects including best practices for parent stock grading, light stimulation and feeding into lay, best practices for broiler management and egg handling.
Puzant Dakessian, CEO, Poultry Sector, Wadi Group opened the event, and provided updates on the company’s expansions, renovations, and the cutting-edge technologies it has implemented. These advancements ensure that Wadi Group consistently delivers the highest quality flocks to its customers. Musa Freiji, founder of Wadi Group, followed Puzant’s comments and emphasized the importance of biosecurity, explaining how good biosecurity practices contribute to the success and optimal flock performance.
The Aviagen team were also in attendance, Bulent Tanyildizi, business manager, MENA provided a local and global market review, and Andreas Kranis, research geneticist, presented on Aviagen’s genetic progress.
During the Academy, all aspects of poultry production were explored, benefiting participants by helping them enhance their management skills, and maximise the genetic potential of their flocks. Tony Freiji, executive chairman, Wadi Group, closed the event by thanking the audience for their continued business and providing a motivational speech on how to stay focused on your objectives throughout challenging times.
“I'm thrilled to reflect on the successful conclusion of the 10th edition of the Wadi Poultry Academy, which we organised in collaboration with Aviagen. The theme of this year’s Academy, “Your Journey to Excellence,” focused on providing our attendees with the latest insights into genetic advancements and cutting-edge poultry management practices, shared by renowned experts from Aviagen.
It was an invaluable opportunity for all to gain new knowledge and share ideas. This year’s event was a testament to our unwavering commitment to not only advancing poultry science, but also to empowering our clients with the tools they need to thrive. As we look ahead, I am confident that Egypt’s poultry industry will continue to grow, overcome challenges, and remain a leader in the global market. We have set very high standards in the meticulous organisation and logistics of these events elevating the level of our gatherings to a world class status, and setting a new norm in the country. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this event possible. Together, we will continue to elevate the poultry sector, promote innovation, and strengthen our relationships for years to come,” commented Puzant.
Murat Yakar, regional technical manager, TMENA added, “We are delighted that we were able to support Wadi Group during their recent Wadi Poultry Academy for PS and broiler customers. The event was a great success, demonstrating exceptional professionalism and organisation. This collaboration highlights Aviagen’s commitment to advancing knowledge and driving success across the poultry industry, while strengthening our valued relationship with Wadi Poultry and their customer base.”

The backbone of CISANET’s incredible achievements is its alliance with AGRA, whose financial support propels its vision to new heights. (Image source: AGRA)
The Civil Society Agriculture Network (CISANET) has partnered with AGRA to begin a remarkable transformation through its dynamic Seed Monitoring Committees (SMCs)
Equipped with a deep understanding of the intricacies of seed production and distribution, SMCs act to ensure that only the highest quality seeds find their way into the hands of farmers. Their work involves monitoring seed quality according to established national standards in a bid to protect farmers from substandard seeds.
Yet their impact doesn’t stop there. Their commitment to excellence extends to every corner of the nation, especially the rural areas, where smallholder farmers are the heartbeat of agriculture. Through collaboration with seed producers and distributors, the SMCs establish plans to ensure a timely availability of certified seeds around the country.
“It is in these remote regions that the spark of transformation ignites, as smallholder farmers gain access to superior seed varieties, unlocking the door to bountiful harvests and financial prosperity,” said CISANET’s programme officer, Thokozani Guta.
The backbone of CISANET’s incredible achievements is its alliance with AGRA, whose financial support propels its vision to new heights. AGRA’s funding fuels an array of groundbreaking initiatives, from the comprehensive training programmes that empower SMC members with unrivaled expertise, to the establishment of robust monitoring mechanisms that strengthen the very foundations of the national seed system. The result is a dynamic force of change, a transformative seed system that propels smallholder farmers towards a future of food security and enriched livelihoods.
The impact of CISANET’s involvement rises beyond immediate improvements in seed quality and availability. With every seed sown, a ripple of collaboration radiates throughout the nation, converging farmers, seed producers, government agencies, and research institutions in a shared space of knowledge, innovation, and growth.
It is here that Malawi’s agricultural landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of progress, where ideas are nurtured, and boundaries are shattered. Through this collaborative approach, CISANET kindles the flames of agricultural growth, lighting the path toward a prosperous and sustainable future for the country’s smallholder farming households.

BKT has analysed the main trends that will shape the future of agricultural tires, matching the expectations of leading tractor and farm machinery manufacturers. (Image source: BKT)
BKT, as a leading Off-Highway tire manufacturer is pursuing its goal of bringing to life high-performance tires that meet stringent application standards and sustainability criteria
Traditional farming techniques are being overtaken by more efficient and productive operations, partly thanks to the arrival of Agriculture 4.0 applications. These include precision farming, IoT sensors, crop monitoring drones, as well as an entire series of devices and technologies that allow for 360-degree process optimisation. A new scenario where sustainability is at the center of this transformation process. BKT has analysed the main trends that, according to the company, will shape the future of agricultural tires, matching the expectations of leading tractor and farm machinery manufacturers.
Sustainability and environmentally sustainable materials
There is a growing industry focus on biodegradable or recycled materials, making sustainability a priority for original equipment. As a response to this trend, tire manufacturers will increase their focus on the use of materials such as natural rubber or recycled compounds to reduce the environmental footprint. Also, the tire design will be conceived with due regard for improved fuel efficiency and thus to lower emissions.
Smart tires and IoT integration
Next-generation tires will gradually integrate IoT sensors for real-time communication of pressure, wear, and performance data, also preventing maintenance interventions for reduced downtime. Moreover, the sensors will be able to provide relevant information on soil conditions, temperature, and load in view of optimising overall performance and farming yields.
Endurance and durability
Increasing operational complexity requires ever stronger and more durable solutions. That is why compounds, tread design, and sidewalls will be optimised for an enhanced product life-cycle and increased product suitability for both traditional and modern practices.
Advanced manufacturing techniques
On the production side, too, we will witness the advancement of cutting-edge techniques, such as 3D printing, which would greatly accelerate a tire’s time-to-market while increasing their customization, thus meeting the specific needs of individual operators in a targeted manner.
Customisation and adaptability
It is quite likely that in the future we will experience increasing flexibility and modularity of tires, which would then be able to easily adjust tire features according to the season, type of application, and field conditions. Hybrid tires will also gain ground and be able to handle a wide range of agricultural tasks, leading to greater versatility.
Hence, the future of the tire industry, notably the premium tire industry, will therefore be increasingly influenced and determined by the ongoing advancement of technology and an increased focus on sustainability and crop protection. Future-oriented manufacturers like BKT, who make performance, durability, and the environment three main pillars of continuous improvement, will be emerging with a view to growth and their ability to meet the complex needs of modern manufacturers.