AI-assisted international press reviewPress review

Three Genes Identified to Unlock Barriers in African and Asian Rice Crossbreeding

A team of Chinese researchers has discovered a genetic barrier complicating the crossbreeding of African and Asian rice varieties. This breakthrough could pave the way for the creation of high-yield hybrids, combining the strengths of both species to enhance productivity and resilience against climate challenges. The findings, published in the journal Science, highlight key genes and underscore the importance of further research to optimize these new varieties.

Citrange Carrizo: A Promising Rootstock Against Citrus Nematodes

A study conducted in Morocco shows that the Citrange Carrizo rootstock reduces the population of the nematode Tylenchulus semipenetrans by 70% compared to other tested rootstocks. However, this resistance is relative and varies according to the nematode biotype, highlighting the importance of prior analysis before replanting.

Launch of Africa's First National Satellite Data Program by Planet Labs and Rwanda

On August 10, 2026, Planet Labs and the Rwandan government inaugurated a national satellite data program, marking a significant advancement for Africa. Managed by the Rwandan Space Agency, this program will provide near-daily Earth imagery, enabling better agricultural resource management, forest health monitoring, and effective urban planning. The data will be accessible to various stakeholders, including universities and start-ups, thus fostering innovation and sustainable development in the country.

Africa: Singaporean Company Olam Agri Invests in Local Supply Chains to Enhance Food Security

Olam Agri, a major player in the agrifood sector, is committed to transforming food systems in Africa by investing in local value chains. By connecting over 300,000 farmers to local and global markets, developing initiatives such as regenerative agriculture and climate-resilient seed varieties, enhancing processing infrastructure, and integrating sustainable farming practices, Olam Agri aims to build a resilient and self-sufficient food future for Africa.

American multinational SAS leverages analytics for South African micro-farms to optimize crop decisions

SAS, an American multinational and global leader in data and AI, has partnered with dataDecisions.ai to launch the Data for Good initiative aimed at helping micro-farmers in South Africa optimize their crop decisions and enhance food security. By analyzing data on crops and market prices, the project enables farmers to maximize their yields and better manage their resources without the need for costly digital infrastructure.

Leguminous Crops: Towards a Global Production of 70 Mt by 2034

According to the OECD, leguminous crop production is expected to grow by 26 Mt by 2034, with Canada as the leading exporter. Despite the anticipated increase, few countries will achieve self-sufficiency, particularly India, which remains the largest producer but cannot meet its population's needs. Innovative agricultural techniques and yield improvements are essential to meet the rising demand.

Elite Agro Holding Opens 200-Hectare Berry Farm in Morocco

The Emirati company Elite Agro Holding, through its subsidiary Elite Harvest Morocco, has opened a new 200-hectare farm in Kenitra, dedicated to the production of blueberries and raspberries. This investment of over 500 million AED underscores the group's commitment to the Moroccan agricultural market, creating more than 8,000 jobs and aiming to become the leader in berry production in the Arab world. The farm, equipped with modern technologies, is part of a strategy for sustainable development and competitiveness in international markets.

BASF Launches Efficon® in Egypt: A New Insecticide with Unique Action Against Sucking Pests

BASF Agricultural Solutions has launched Efficon®, a next-generation insecticide designed to effectively control pests in high-value crops in Egypt. With its active ingredient Axalion®, Efficon® provides long-lasting protection against sucking insects such as whiteflies and aphids, addressing the challenges of resistance and climate change.

Egypt: An Agrivoltaic Pilot to Reinvent Agriculture in Desert Areas

A consortium led by 3E, a Belgian company specializing in renewable energy, has launched an agrivoltaic project in southern Sinai aimed at improving food security and climate adaptation in arid regions. This innovative project, which combines renewable energy and agriculture, uses solar panels to reduce thermal stress on crops while generating electricity.

Agri-biotech: Elicit Plant Strengthens Its International Offensive Against Water Stress

Africa: Smallholder Agriculture Becomes a New Asset Class for Investors

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.

Disease-Resistant Wheat: A Global Alliance Accelerates Genetic Selection Against Fungal Risks in Africa and Asia

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.

Bayer and IITA Join Forces to Develop Climate-Resilient Varieties in Sub-Saharan Africa

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.

Kenya Accelerates Biopesticide Development with Dedicated Regulatory Reform

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.

Successful First CRISPR Genetic Edition on Grapevines in South Africa for Disease and Drought Resistance

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.

Launch of an International Innovation Hub in West Africa

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.

International Collaboration to Enhance Key Crops in Rwanda

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.

Donald Danforth Plant Science Center Joins Biotechnology Initiative in Rwanda

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.

Soil Erosion in Ethiopia

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.

Towards Rice Self-Sufficiency in Africa: The Egyptian Model!

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.