Experts say the region is currently in a drought, but as long as it doesn’t extend much longer, the dry weather is having a balanced impact on local agriculture.

Nairobi — As African farmers struggle with unpredictability caused by climate change, some are looking into contract farming, which involves growing a certain crop for a price set in advance. About 400 people attended the International Conference on Contract Farming in Nairobi this week to learn more about the practice.  Peris Wanjiku, the conference director, said such agreements can help solve the challenges that many smallholder farmers face in Africa.  "It's always important to farm with a plan. I believe it's not enough to simply plant a crop, whatever it is, without knowing where it will end up," Wanjiku said. "Farmers should know beforehand what to grow and where to sell. This is why contract farming is so important, as it provides the framework for certainty and sustainability. "But it's not only about the traditional farmer. I believe we can extend the benefit of contract farming to those who may not be farmers themselves right now, but they own a piece of land."    Experts say the growing interest in contract farming is associated with increasingly complicated systems in food production, marketing and distribution, which has made it difficult for farmers to meet consumers' demands.  Contract farming, experts say, is an instrument that manages and reduces production risks for both parties.  Wilson Milito Ole-Rampei, a vegetable farmer in Kenya, is attending the conference and is optimistic that the practice would help him.   "I will benefit because if, for example, I am growing vegetables, we will arrange with them to get a market. They will give me their technical advice, then our arid land will be used. Because of [a] shortage of rain, we will do irrigation. I would have knowledge of what I am growing," Ole-Rampei said.    An economist for the U.N.’s Food and Agriculture Organization, Lan Li, said contract farming is often a good deal for small-scale farmers.   "It sets the agreements on what products to produce, quantity, and price," Li said. "As such, it helps secure more stable income and better production planning for producers. It can improve access to inputs for small-scale holder farmers, technical assistance training, and financing solutions."  African farmers have seen reduced harvests due to global warming and drought. For many, a lack of knowledge and skills also contributes to low food production.  In areas where farmers can produce enough food, they sometimes face obstacles such as bad roads or insecurity that prevent them from getting to market.   Carole Kariuki, head of the Kenya Private Sector Alliance, said the private and public sectors need to collaborate to improve the agriculture sector.  "The private sector is doing its best. It's filling that gap where it can, but we cannot do it all, and we need the government to be able to go back and say we can get agriculture extension officers helping out small farmers and all the farmers in the country. Contract farming holds immense potential to transform African agriculture,” she said.  Contract farming can have drawbacks, such as making farmers less able to sell to alternative buyers when produce prices increase. In addition, there are environmental risks from growing only one crop for a long time.   Buyers, meanwhile, can face high transaction costs from contracting with many farmers.  But Kariuki believes the benefits outweigh the risks. She called contract farming a model to lift up small-scale farmers, boost food production, and drive sustainable growth.

[VOA] Nairobi -- As African farmers struggle with unpredictability caused by climate change, some are looking into contract farming, which involves growing a certain crop for a price set in advance.

A proposal to set up an effluent treatment plant and to carry out concrete lining of the baby canal, submitted in 2021-22, is under government’s consideration, says a senior official in the Water Resources Department

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged farmers to significantly cut their use of urea to boost income and soil health, and said his government was constantly striving to prop up rural India with steps such as the ₹1 lakh crore agriculture infrastructure fund, for which he launched the financing facility on Sunday. Modi also released ₹17,000 crore to the bank accounts of 85 ...

Nestled within the buffer zone of the Dandeli-Anshi Tiger Reserve and the Karwar Territorial Forest Division, the Kunbi community hopes to find a new market for their climate-resilient tubers as indigenous ingredients in city chefs’ menus

The group also rammed a farmer's vehicle in a "terrifying" incident in Wiltshire, police said.

Green entrepreneurial intention (GEI) in the agriculture sector signifies agricultural businesses' strong determination to embrace environmentally sustainable practices and innovative eco-friendly approaches. To understand farmers' GEI, the research applied theories of entrepreneurial events and institutional theory. A model was developed and empirically validated through structural equation modelling (SEM). A questionnaire survey was used to collect data from 211 farmers from the southern region of India. Findings revealed that perceived desirability, perceived feasibility, mimetic pressure, and entrepreneurial mindset positively influenced GEI. Entrepreneurial mindset played a mediating role in strengthening the farmers GEI. This study contributes to understanding GEI in agriculture and informs strategies for promoting sustainable farming practices.

Aim/Purpose: This research aims to develop a smart agricultural knowledge management framework to empower emergent farmers and extension officers (advisors to farmers) in developing countries as part of a smart farming lab (SFL). The framework utilizes knowledge objects (KOs) to capture information and knowledge of different forms, including indigenous knowledge. It builds upon a foundation of established agricultural knowledge management (AKM) models and serves as the cornerstone for an envisioned SFL. This framework facilitates optimal decision support by fostering linkages between these KOs and relevant organizations, knowledge holders, and knowledge seekers within the SFL environment. Background: Emergent farmers and extension officers encounter numerous obstacles in their knowledge operations and decision-making. This includes limited access to agricultural information and difficulties in applying it effectively. Many lack reliable sources of support, and even when information is available, understanding and applying it to specific situations can be challenging. Additionally, extension offices struggle with operational decisions and knowledge management due to agricultural organizations operating isolated in silos, hindering their access to necessary knowledge. This research introduces an SFL with a proposed AKM process model aimed at transforming emergent farmers into smart, innovative entities by addressing these challenges. Methodology: This study is presented as a theory-concept paper and utilizes a literature review to evaluate and synthesize three distinct AKM models using several approaches. The results of the analysis are used to design a new AKM process model. Contribution: This research culminates in a new AKM process framework that incorporates the strengths of various existing AKM models and supports emergent farmers and extension officers to become smart, innovative entities. One main difference between the three models analyzed, and the one proposed in this research, is the deployment and use of knowledge assets in the form of KOs. The proposed framework also incorporates metadata and annotations to enhance knowledge discoverability and enable AI-powered applications to leverage captured knowledge effectively. In practical terms, it contributes by further motivating the use of KOs to enable the transfer and the capturing of organizational knowledge. Findings: A model for an SFL that incorporates the proposed agricultural knowledge management framework is presented. This model is part of a larger knowledge factory (KF). It includes feedback loops, KOs, and mechanisms to facilitate intelligent decision-making. The significance of fostering interconnected communities is emphasized through the creation of linkages. These communities consist of knowledge seekers and bearers, with information disseminated through social media and other communication integration platforms. Recommendations for Practitioners: Practitioners and other scholars should consider implementing the proposed AKM process model as part of a larger SFL to support emergent farmers and extension officers in making operational decisions and applying knowledge management strategies. Recommendation for Researchers: The AKM process model is only presented in conceptual form. Therefore, researchers can practically test and assess the new framework in an agricultural setting. They can also further explore the potential of social media integration platforms to connect knowledge seekers with knowledge holders. Impact on Society: The proposed AKM process model has the potential to support emergent farmers and extension officers in becoming smart, innovative entities, leading to improved agricultural practices and potentially contributing to food security. Future Research: This paper discusses the AKM process model in an agrarian setting, but it can also be applied in other domains, such as education and the healthcare sector. Future research can evaluate the model’s effectiveness and explore and further investigate the semantic web and social media integration.

Covington, LA — Helping farmers and ranchers navigate occupational risks and providing information on health and safety issues is the goal of the AgriSafe Health Hub, a new website.

New York — The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York has halted until at least Aug. 22 an Environmental Protection Agency final rule that revises the pesticide application exclusion zone requirement in the agency’s standard on agricultural worker protection.

Iowa City, IA – A new campaign is reminding farmers about the dangers of skin cancer and heat stress, and how to stay protected.

Any milk dryer operation uses a lot of energy, and when you have the biggest operation in North America, you use…a lot of energy.

These partnerships aim to encourage wheat, corn and rice farmers in select regions of North America to implement regenerative agriculture practices, contributing to scope 3 carbon reductions.

Event date: November 24, 2024
Event Time: 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Location:
15556 Summit Ave
Fontana, CA 92336
Description:
Visit the Fontana Farmers' Market every Sundays! You can enjoy the many hot foods, produce, crafts, and unique accessories that are available.

Event date: November 21, 2024
Event Time: 03:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Location:
14501 Live Oak Ave
Fontana, CA 92337
Description:
Visit the Fontana Farmers' Market every Thursdays! You can enjoy the many hot foods, produce, crafts, and unique accessories that are available.

Event date: November 17, 2024
Event Time: 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Location:
15556 Summit Ave
Fontana, CA 92336
Description:
Visit the Fontana Farmers' Market every Sundays! You can enjoy the many hot foods, produce, crafts, and unique accessories that are available.

Event date: November 14, 2024
Event Time: 03:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Location:
14501 Live Oak Ave
Fontana, CA 92337
Description:
Visit the Fontana Farmers' Market every Thursdays! You can enjoy the many hot foods, produce, crafts, and unique accessories that are available.

Many U.S. farmers who grow genetically engineered (GE) crops are realizing substantial economic and environmental benefits -- such as lower production costs, fewer pest problems, reduced use of pesticides, and better yields -- compared with conventional crops, says a new report from the National Research Council.

Fresh, Local Choices And Convenient Location Highlight Community's Latest Amenity

Concerned stakeholders left out of dam breaching discussions with Administration.

The organization highlights the significant contributions of women in agriculture all month long

Asheville Agrihood's 1st Annual HarvestFest Aims to Nourish Community for Producers and Consumers of Farmers Market Produce

Wheat Growers Challenge Scientific Accuracy, Economic Impacts of LSRD Report

Wheat Growers Challenge Scientific Accuracy, Economic Impacts of LSRD Report

By Leaiman Yes! Magazine Affectionately called “Professor” by his neighbors, Josefino Martinez is a well-respected indigenous farmer and community organizer from the remote town of Chicahuaxtla, in the Mexican state of Oaxaca. He watched with patient attention as I showed … Continue reading →

Nov 21, 2024, 12pm EST

Sydney Giacalone, doctoral candidate in anthropology at Brown University, researches multigenerational farmers and ranchers across the U.S. who are transitioning away from conventional practices towards environmentally and social repairing approaches. This experience often involves questioning past education and internalized ideologies and learning to collaborate with nonhuman life to repair degraded ecologies. Join Giacaloneto learn more about her research.

Building: Curtis Hall
Campus Location: Medford/Somerville campus
City: Medford, MA 02155
Campus: Medford/Somerville campus
Location Details: Curtis Hall Multipurpose Room (474 Boston Ave., Medford, MA)
Wheelchair Accessible (for in-person events): Yes
Open to Public: Yes
Primary Audience(s): Alumni and Friends
Event Type: Academic Date/Deadline, Lecture/Presentation/Seminar/Talk
Event Sponsor Details: Environmental Studies Program
Event Contact Name: Sinet Kroch
Event Contact Email: sinet.kroch@tufts.edu
RSVP Information: RSVP only needed for virtual attendants
More info: tufts.zoom.us…

"Ethiopia's agricultural sector, which is dominated by smallscale, mixed-crop, and livestock farming, is the mainstay of the country's economy. It constitutes more than half of the country's gross domestic product, generates more than 85 percent of foreign exchange earnings, and employs about 80 percent of the population. Unfortunately, Ethiopia's dependence on agriculture makes the country particularly vulnerable to the adverse impactsof climate change on crop and livestock production.

Ethiopia’s agricultural sector, which is dominated by smallscale, mixed crop, and livestock farming, is the mainstay of the country’s economy. It constitutes more than half the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP), generates more than 85 percent of the foreign exchange earnings, and employs about 80 percent of the population. Ethiopia’s dependence on agriculture makes the country particularly vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change on crop and livestock production.

Resource-poor rice farmers in Myanmar suffer double impact from political conflict

Productivity erodes amid turmoil.

The post Resource-poor rice farmers in Myanmar suffer double impact from political conflict appeared first on IFPRI.

Against the grain: Could farmers feed the world and heal the planet?

Humanity relies on agriculture to provide nourishment, yet there is an urgent need to reduce the agricultural sector’s environmental footprint. Meeting these two goals is crucial for both people and the planet to thrive. Please join us for a conversation featuring Roger Thurow, award-winning author and journalist, whose recently released book argues it is possible […]

The post Against the grain: Could farmers feed the world and heal the planet? appeared first on IFPRI.

Sudan’s catastrophe: farmers could offer quick post-war recovery, if peace is found

Despite the stark reality, there is a potential path forward for Sudan, believe IFPRI experts.

The post Sudan’s catastrophe: farmers could offer quick post-war recovery, if peace is found appeared first on IFPRI.

Tale of two villages: In Malawi, farmers point the way as drought drives hunger (WFP/AllAfrica/Relief Web)

The WFP story shared by All Africa and Relief Web quotes Jan Duchoslav and Joachim De Weerdt (IFPRI Malawi) on the food security crisis in the country.

The post Tale of two villages: In Malawi, farmers point the way as drought drives hunger (WFP/AllAfrica/Relief Web) appeared first on IFPRI.

The National Black Farmers Association just won a historic $2.2 billion in reparations from the U.S. government.

Discover how lessons from farmers can help restoration business leaders navigate challenging seasons, adapt to market shifts, and build a foundation for future growth.

The U.S. Farmed seal will first appear on Anheuser-Busch's Busch Light this May, and Budweiser, Bud Light and Michelob ULTRA have also obtained U.S. Farmed certification.

At #COP29Azerbaijan, Jeroom Remmers says “Producers of meat & dairy should pay for the damage they cause [to climate]. It’s normal, when I damage the window of my neighbor, I have to repair this damage, but meat & dairy processors also have to repair the damage they cause” pic.twitter.com/91XX5zm6fI — Tom Elliott (@tomselliott) November 12, […]

Aeroxchange Singapore Airlines Aeroxchange Singapore Airlines All Path N1768678083 Bundles Mi_Base All Path N1979450715 Bundles... Lon Tibbatts, Controller, Farmers Brnch, TX, United States

Year 5 children from Twickenham Primary School in Kingstanding are making great progress with their social enterprise scheme working with the Diggin’ Generations local food project

Grant aid for groups to help struggling species.

The first frost of the season probably isn’t too far away. Properly preparing the agricultural soil for next spring and summer is a matter of timing. Getting the cover crops in place is essential before a hard freeze occurs. The Washtenaw County Conservation District is working to make it convenient and effective for local farmers. Conservation technician Matt Dejonge explained it all in his conversation with WEMU's David Fair.

Prairie strips in fields of corn or soybeans can protect the soil and allow wildlife to flourish. This strip was established in a field near Traer, Iowa, in 2015. Omar de Kok-Mercado, Iowa State University Lisa Schulte Moore loves nature. To stand in an old-growth forest, she says, "I can only describe it as healing." When she moved to Iowa to teach ecology at Iowa State University, she didn't get that same feeling when she found herself amid acres of corn. She wasn't hearing birds or seeing many bugs. "All I can hear are the leaves of the rustling corn," she says. "Not one biological noise. You know, they call it the green desert." This is, in fact, the central environmental problem with agriculture. This year, corn and soybeans cover an area of the United States equal in size to all the East Coast states from New York to Georgia. It has displaced wildlife and left the soil more vulnerable to water and wind erosion. But Schulte Moore says that it doesn't have to be a green desert. She

As winter approaches and outdoor farmers markets wind down, many small businesses that rely on summer sales are now faced with the difficult task of planning for their off-season.

Nicholas Jones, who recently secured his spot in the PGA Butterfield Bermuda Championships, teed off in the inaugural APGA Farmers Insurance Fall Series event at the Bally’s Golf Links at Ferry Point in the Bronx, New York. Jones carded a 6-over par 77 in the opening round, placing him in a tie for 31st. His […]

You shop local and buy organic when you can, but how can you tell if your farmers market produce is really organic? There have been a few scandals in recent years where farmers market vendors were found to be purchasing and reselling grocery store produce labeled as locally grown. So how can you tell? Here's how to find a great farmers market vendor or food co-op for organic produce.[...]

“The spraying of orchards and vineyards certainly isn’t an eco-friendly process, with tractors spewing exhaust as they douse crops in herbicides and pesticides. That’s one of the main reasons the electric, autonomous Prospr robot was created,” reports New Atlas: Manufactured by New Zealand agritech company Robotics Plus, the all-wheel-drive robotic vehicle was unveiled last September […]

The post Crop-spraying robot saves farmers time, cuts emissions of greenhouse gases appeared first on Liberty Unyielding.

Amid a mounting mental health crisis among farmers, experts are working to make help more accessible

Tens of thousands of farmers are bringing in their first rice harvest just six months after one of the worst typhoons to ever hit the Philippines left their fields in [...]