Kaleidofin and Apollo Agriculture have completed the first local currency securitization for the smallholder sector in Kenya, mobilizing 276 million KES (approximately 2.1 million USD) for 23,839 farmers, including 51% women and 22% new borrowers. This initiative, supported by the IDH Farmfit Fund, marks a significant advancement in agricultural financing, with a BBB- investment rating assigned to this asset class. Through innovative technologies, Apollo assesses farmers' creditworthiness, thereby facilitating access to tailored financing in local currency.
SEPEHR ACHARD, Source: Igronews, published under the title "Apollo Agriculture and Kaleidofin Close Kenya’s First Privat..." - 11 May 2026
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The Global Wheat Health Alliance (GWHA) is a new international initiative aimed at protecting wheat from diseases in South Asia and East Africa. Co-led by CIMMYT and Cornell University, this alliance will integrate gene discovery, field testing, and preventive breeding to develop more resilient wheat varieties. With a financial backing of $2.7 million, the alliance aims to train 100 scientists in disease assessment and resistance breeding.
Source: Agropages, published under the title "Global Wheat Health Alliance launched to strengthen disease ..." - 11 May 2026
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The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and Bayer announce an ambitious research partnership aimed at revolutionizing agriculture in Sub-Saharan Africa. This project, extending until 2028, seeks to develop crop varieties suited for smallholder farmers by integrating advanced technologies such as genomic editing and molecular selection.
Source: Agropages, published under the title "IITA and Bayer launch groundbreaking research collaboration ..." - 30 April 2026
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Kenya's agricultural sector is transforming with the emergence of biopesticides, addressing sustainability challenges and compliance with international standards. The revision of registration requirements and the establishment of a specialized division within the PCPB (Pesticide Control Products Board) aim to facilitate the adoption of these alternatives.
Source: Agropages, published under the title "Shaping Kenya’s biopesticide: Industry consultation on regis..." - 30 April 2026
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A team of South African researchers has successfully modified the DNA of grapevines to enhance their resistance to diseases and their adaptation to drought. This breakthrough, achieved through CRISPR technology, could transform viticulture in Africa by enabling the development of more sustainable varieties in the face of growing climate challenges.
Source: Agropages, published under the title "New study shows editing grapevine DNA could boost resistance..." - 24 April 2026
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At the Euro-Africa Biennale in October 2025, an agreement was signed to establish an International Innovation Hub in West Africa, involving academic stakeholders and international organizations. This project aims to structure innovation ecosystems in Benin, Côte d'Ivoire, and Senegal, facilitating access to research and mobilizing funding for sustainable food systems.
Source: Institut Agro Montpellier, published under the title "Lancement du projet de création d'un hub international de l'..." - 19 January 2026
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The BioCap project, supported by the Gates Foundation, aims to strengthen Rwanda's capacity in crop biotechnology. By focusing on essential crops such as cassava, potatoes, and bananas, the initiative seeks to improve disease resistance and increase agricultural productivity. This $15 million project over five years aims to position Rwanda as a regional leader in biotechnology while supporting food security and sustainable development.
Source: Agropages, published under the title "International Collaboration aims to improve key crops for Rw..." - 13 January 2026
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The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center partners with a $15 million project in Rwanda to establish a Center of Excellence in crop biotechnology. Supported by the Gates Foundation, this initiative focuses on developing disease-resistant varieties of cassava, potatoes, and bananas while enhancing the country's research and regulatory capacities. The initiative aims to improve food security and position Rwanda as a regional leader in agricultural biotechnology.
SEPEHR ACHARD, Source: Igronews, published under the title "Donald Danforth Plant Science Center Joins International Cro..." - 13 January 2026
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A study on integrated conservation measures to combat land degradation in semi-arid mountainous areas reveals strategies to optimize soil quality and promote resilient agricultural management in the face of climate change.
Source: Springer, published under the title "Effect of biophysical soil and water conservation measures o..." - 5 November 2025
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Towards rice self-sufficiency in Africa: The high-level forum in Cairo unveils the secrets of the Egyptian experience, with AfricaRice at the forefront sharing sustainable innovations, resilient varieties, and water-efficient irrigation strategies. African ministers unite their efforts to turn challenges into opportunities, fostering strong partnerships and increased production to feed the continent. Egypt, with its record yields, inspires a collaborative agricultural revolution.
Source: Agropages, published under the title "AfricaRice and Egypt convey an African ministerial meeting f..." - 23 October 2025
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