#agriculture

The Benue State Government has conducted inspections of all 23 Divisional Agricultural Offices (DAOs) to promote transparency and accountability in the distribution of government-supplied fertiliser to farmers for the 2026 farming season. This initiative was led by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Benjamin Ashaver, as part of the government's monitoring efforts.

Experts assert that existing agricultural innovations can significantly improve global food systems, but emphasize the need for increased investment, enhanced partnerships, and more effective scaling strategies to achieve sustainable change.

Taita Taveta County has launched a cooperative fund aimed at enhancing rural access to credit. This initiative is designed to complement existing financing programs and facilitate improved access to credit for agricultural production and other income-generating activities.

Samuel A. Mshote, the Executive Director of Tanzania Fertilizer Company (TFC), reported that the use of fertilizers in the country has increased, leading to a reduction in challenges faced by farmers and an improvement in food security. Speaking at the 50th International Trade Fair in Dar es Salaam on July 5, 2026, he noted that Tanzania currently produces more than 124% of its food needs, attributing this success to government efforts to promote fertilizer usage.

Fintech firm Avenews is enhancing farmers' access to credit in Kenya by utilizing technology and transaction data to assess creditworthiness. According to Avenews Group CEO Jonathan Tseloon, the company analyzes business records such as M-Pesa statements and bank statements, moving away from traditional security methods to improve agricultural financing.

The government has confirmed that the Kenya School of Agriculture being built at Kamutune in Meru County will be completed by December 2026. During an inspection of development projects in the Tigania West Constituency, Agriculture PS Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh stated that efforts to expedite the construction are being intensified.

Akwa Ibom State governor Umo Eno has announced plans to create large-scale model farms in the state's three senatorial districts. This initiative aims to enhance food production, improve food security, and promote agritourism. Additionally, the management of the Ibom Model Farm in Uyo Senatorial District has been reassigned as part of this effort.

At the Financing Agri-Food Systems Sustainably (FINAS 2026) Conference in Nairobi, agroecology advocates emphasized that the future of Kenya's food system depends not only on agricultural production but also on farmers' ability to earn a decent living. They called for increased investment in sustainable agriculture to support this goal.

According to Soko Directory, Kiambu County, adjacent to Nairobi, has historically played a significant role in supporting the capital's food security. However, concerns have been raised about the ongoing urbanization and development in the area, which may jeopardize its agricultural capacity and future food security. The article calls for a reevaluation of land use to prevent further loss of arable land.

The UK has announced a UGX 1 trillion package aimed at improving infrastructure, energy, and agriculture in Uganda. This initiative marks a transition from traditional aid to investment, as stated by British officials. The announcement was made by Baroness Chapman, the UK’s minister for Africa and international development, during her two-day visit, which included a groundbreaking ceremony for new projects.

According to The Conversation Africa, successful fundraising for research requires institutions to have a clear vision and build trust with potential financial partners. The author, who has extensive experience in agricultural research and leadership roles, emphasizes that donors are more likely to support institutions they trust rather than merely funding individual projects.

President William Ruto showcased his flourishing maize and kale crops during an inspection of his expansive farm in Naivasha, highlighting his commitment to agriculture and large-scale farming. The event drew reactions from Kenyans.

Mrs. Folashade Ayeni, a prominent agripreneur in Nigeria, is focused on enhancing food security, empowering farmers, and revitalizing the country's oil palm industry. She operates a 50-hectare farm in Kakun, Kogi State, and advocates for sustainable agricultural practices.

The Tanzania Fertilizer Regulatory Authority (TFRA) utilized the Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (Sabasaba) to educate stakeholders about its roles and opportunities in the fertilizer sector, including the importation, manufacturing, and distribution value chain. On July 4, 2026, TFRA's Southern Highlands Regional Manager, Joshua Ng’ondya, highlighted the importance of proper fertilizer use, soil testing, and the registration process to benefit from the fertilizer program.

The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) is working to enhance Kwara State's role in Nigeria's non-oil export sector by focusing on developing export clusters for cashew, sesame seeds, and soya beans. This initiative was discussed during a stakeholders' consultative meeting in Ilorin, involving government officials, farmers, and exporters.

According to FAO Economist Monica Tothova, the ongoing energy crisis linked to the conflict in the Middle East has not yet impacted global food prices due to existing agricultural reserves. Despite worries regarding energy costs, fertilizer prices, and freight disruptions, the global food commodity market remains stable for the time being.

Obi has expressed concerns regarding a warning from the United Nations about a food crisis in Northern Nigeria. He urged both the federal and state governments to make proactive investments in securing agricultural corridors and to support smallholder farmers by providing them with accessible resources.

Farmers and the public are encouraged to adopt the cultivation of scientifically researched fruit trees, bananas, and spices, which provide health and economic benefits. Agricultural experts highlight that improved crop varieties can boost productivity, enhance food quality, and increase household incomes, according to Daily News.

Jeshi la Kujenga Taifa (JKT) has been awarded first place in the agricultural and fishing products category at the 50th Sabasaba International Trade Fair. Brigadier General Shija Lupi, the chairman of the Sabasaba National Exhibition Committee for JKT, spoke to reporters about this achievement, celebrating the military's innovation in these sectors.

The Regional Commissioner of Iringa, Mhe. Kheri James, has highlighted the region's potential in tourism and agriculture, inviting both local and foreign investors to explore opportunities available there. Speaking to reporters in Dar es Salaam on June 3, 2026, after visiting the Iringa region's booth at the Sabasaba International Trade Fair, he noted that Iringa is endowed with unique tourism attractions, including the Ruaha National Park, which presents significant investment opportunities.