Livestock

EuroTier 2026 is set to take place from 10 to 13 November in Hanover. (Image source: DLG)

The German Agricultural Society, DLG-organised trade fair for livestock professionals, EuroTier, has issued call for the Innovation Award EuroTier seeking technological innovations to address on-ground problems in modern livestock farming

The Innovation Award EuroTier in gold or silver goes to the winner who gets chosen following an in-depth technical evaluation by an independent panel of international experts appointed by the DLG. 

Alongside, the Animal Welfare Award is also seeking submissions for trendsetting offerings for the industry. This recognises products that promote species-appropriate behaviour and squarely supports animal health. Also presented by the DLG in cooperation with the bpt (German Veterinary Practitioners Association), this particular award is build on the gold or silver earned as part of the EuroTier Innovation Award. While animal welfare is only one of several criteria for the Innovation Award, the Animal Welfare Award specifically recognizes a product that meets the requirements for a higher animal welfare standard to an exceptional degree.

Decisive factors include innovations in animal welfare and animal health. Products that promote species-appropriate behavior and actively support animal health are particularly highlighted.

EuroTier 2026 that is set to take place from 10 to 13 November in Hanover, Germany, will be driven by the theme 'Intelligence in animal farming', promoting technologies that improve efficiency, animal welfare, and farm management, while also delivering benefits in terms of environmental and energy performance.

Registration for the EuroTier Innovation Awards 2026 automatically includes entry for the Animal Welfare Award 2026.

Award-winning products must be fully functional at the time of the exhibition and must be available on the market by EuroTier 2028 at the latest. The last edition of EuroTier included more than 210 world premieres entered into the innovation award scheme.

The application deadline for the EuroTier 2026 awards is July 31, 2026.

Murat Yakar, General Manager of Aviagen Arabia. (Image source: Aviagen)

Aviagen has announced the promotion of Murat Yakar to General Manager of Aviagen Arabia, marking a strategic step forward as the company continues to expand its footprint across the Middle East and surrounding regions

This appointment highlights Aviagen’s long-standing commitment to developing talent from within its own ranks. Murat was selected following a comprehensive internal process, reinforcing the company’s focus on identifying, nurturing and advancing high-potential leaders. His progression reflects a broader corporate philosophy centered on sustainable growth, leadership continuity and investment in people.

Since joining Aviagen in 2016, Murat has played a pivotal role across Türkiye, the Middle East and Africa. Over the years, he has taken on increasing levels of responsibility, contributing to key initiatives and playing an instrumental role in driving regional performance. His experience across diverse markets has equipped him with a strong understanding of both operational demands and customer needs, positioning him well for his new role.

Within his role, Murat will lead the establishment and development of Aviagen Arabia’s operations, a critical component of the company’s broader regional strategy. His leadership will play a pivotal role in driving growth, strengthening customer relationships and ensuring that Aviagen’s global standards are effectively implemented at a local level.

The timing of the appointment is particularly notable, as the poultry sector across the Middle East continues to evolve, shaped by rising demand, technological advancement and increasing focus on food security.

As Aviagen continues to build momentum in the TMEA region, the promotion of Murat Yakar represents more than a leadership change – it underscores a clear direction of growth, stability and confidence in the future. His appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for Aviagen Arabia, with a strong emphasis on expansion, customer collaboration and delivering long-term value across the region.

Zimbabwe Agri venture targets rural growth (Image credit: African Agri Council)

AAC IDS26 001 is a young agri input retail business in Zimbabwe that is steadily gaining attention for its practical approach to serving farmers

Based in the Pixie Combie area of Kadoma, the venture was launched in March 2026 and quickly showed signs of strong demand. Farmers in the area have been actively seeking reliable access to animal feed, day old chicks, veterinary medicines, and other essential supplies, highlighting a clear gap in the local market.

The business benefits from its location in a busy farming zone where poultry, livestock, and mixed farming activities are common. With no direct competition nearby, AAC IDS26 001 has been able to attract a steady stream of customers from surrounding communities. Its leadership also adds weight to its potential, with the CEO bringing 17 years of work experience and a strong commitment to supporting the country’s agricultural sector.

The company now aims to grow beyond a basic retail outlet and become a trusted one stop hub for farmers. Plans include expanding product lines, improving stock levels, introducing delivery services, and moving into road runner breeding. These steps are expected to reduce the need for farmers to travel long distances while strengthening the business’s position in the local market.

This opportunity has been featured within the Investment Discovery Sessions, an initiative by the African Agri Council that connects promising agricultural ventures with investors and financial partners. Designed to encourage real engagement and deal making, the platform helps businesses like AAC IDS26 001 move from early success to long term growth, while offering investors access to ventures with clear demand and expansion potential.

Nigeria’s livestock plan set to drive growth

Nigeria’s livestock sector is gaining fresh attention as a new development framework promises to open up opportunities across the industry.

The President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Akajiugo Emeka Obegolu, has shared an optimistic outlook, stating that the initiative could create up to 350,000 jobs within its first two years.

According to Obegolu, the framework is designed to attract investment and support growth across the entire livestock value chain. Central to this effort is the planned Livestock Development Fund, which aims to make financing more accessible for farmers, processors, and other stakeholders. With better access to funding, businesses in the sector are expected to expand and improve their operations.

He also praised the current administration for establishing a dedicated Ministry of Livestock Development, describing it as a timely and strategic move. This step, he explained, gives the sector the focused attention it needs to reach its full potential. Rather than taking direct control, the government is encouraged to create supportive policies and regulations that allow private investors to play a leading role.

The scale of opportunity within the livestock industry is significant. Obegolu noted that the sector could be worth around 33 trillion naira, covering areas such as meat production, dairy, leather, and poultry. With proper planning and investment, these segments can contribute strongly to economic growth.

He highlighted the importance of improving key areas such as feed systems, animal breeding, and veterinary services. Advancing techniques like artificial insemination and better genetics can help increase productivity and efficiency across farms.

Another major focus is the need to modernise how meat is processed and transported. Moving away from the traditional practice of transporting live animals over long distances, he suggested a system that relies on processed meat and cold chain logistics. This approach would reduce losses, maintain quality, and improve overall efficiency.

With growing collaboration between the government and private sector, the livestock industry is steadily moving towards a more structured and sustainable future. The proposed framework is expected to support job creation, improve food supply, and strengthen Nigeria’s wider economy.