Welcome back to another weekly update on the agricultural sector across the globe. Agriculture is a crucial component of the world’s economy, and it plays a vital role in ensuring food security for the world’s ever-growing population. In this article, we’ll take a look at the latest developments and highlights from the past week in the agricultural industry.
1. FAO report: Closing the gender gap in agriculture could benefit global economy by up to $1 trillion
The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has released a report highlighting the benefits of closing the gender gap in the agricultural sector.
The report, which updates a 2011 study, reveals that the global economy could gain up to $1 trillion if women were given greater access to resources, technology, and financing.
Despite forming almost half of the agricultural workforce in Southeast Asia and more than half in many sub-Saharan African countries, women continue to occupy low-skilled and informal roles, while also being expected to manage household duties.
Access to land and other resources remains a challenge, perpetuating extreme poverty. In over 40% of countries providing data, men hold property rights to agricultural land at twice the rate of women. The FAO report suggests that the marginalization of women in agrarian societies has persisted for centuries, with little sign of improvement. Read More.
2. G7 Agriculture Ministers to Provide Support for Rebuilding Ukraine's Farming Sector
The agriculture ministers of the G7 nations are set to provide assistance to Ukraine’s farming sector at their upcoming meeting in Japan. The country is a key producer of cereals like wheat and corn, but the conflict with Russia has led to significant damage to farmland and agricultural infrastructure. This has caused disruption to agricultural exports, impacting global food security. The G7 support is expected to include clearing landmines from affected areas, sharing expertise in rebuilding agricultural facilities, and providing financing to Ukrainian farmers. Read More.
3. Zimbabwe's Permanent Secretary emphasizes revival of young farmer's Clubs
Dr. John Bhasera, Permanent Secretary of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries Water and Rural Development, has emphasized the importance of reviving young farmer’s clubs to promote agricultural activities among graduates and increase production in Zimbabwe.
Speaking at a Youth in Agriculture Independence Expo at Chaminuka Training Centre in Mashonaland Central, Dr Bhasera urged institutions working with young farmers to promote innovation and involve various stakeholders in ventures such as horticulture, animal husbandry, and agroforestry.
He also expressed satisfaction with the pace at which youths are participating in government-initiated climate-proofing agricultural practices.
At the same event, Zimbabwe Youth Council executive director Brian Nyagwande highlighted the pivotal role of youths in achieving Vision 2030. Read More.
4. Global Smart Farming Market Expected to Grow at 15.06% CAGR During 2023-2029, Says HTF Market Intelligence Study
A new report by HTF Market Intelligence reveals that the global Smart Farming market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15.06% during the forecast period from 2023-2029.
The report provides valuable information on market structure, size, and trends, and aims to help decision-makers identify potential gaps and growth opportunities in the industry.
The study segments the market by application, type, farm size, and geography. Key players in the market include Deere & Company, Trimble, AGCO, and AG Leader Technology among others. Smart Farming manufacturers can benefit from the report’s policy and regulatory proposals, which provide clear explanations of the stakes, potential winners and losers, and options for improvement. Read More.
5. Can AI Help Save the Planet? Creative Use of Technology Can Aid in Halting Deforestation, Experts Say
On World Day of Creativity and Innovation, experts are looking to artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to help stop deforestation and restore forests sustainably. The challenge of halting deforestation and restoring degraded land is enormous, with 10 million hectares of forest lost every year.
However, new satellite image technology and AI algorithms are allowing forestry officials to monitor remote and inaccessible forest areas, receive alerts through cloud computing programs, and take far more effective action against illegal activity. With the help of AI, experts hope to reach the ambitious goal of zero deforestation by 2030 and restore 1 billion hectares of degraded land and forest. Read More.