#farm productivity Kenya

[farmerstrend]

Modern Farming Machines Bring Hope to Tseikuru Farmers

Three farmers’ groups in Tseikuru Sub-county, Mwingi North, have received modern farming machinery valued at Sh3.5 million, courtesy of the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA). The initiative aims to enhance agricultural productivity and efficiency in the region. Speaking during the handover, Kitui NDMA Coordinator Francis Koma emphasized that the equipment would significantly improve…

[probablyasocialecologist]

New University of Sheffield research shows that combining solar panels with farming (agrivoltaics) can meet UK solar energy targets without sacrificing agricultural land. The coverage potential for the technology is so high that it could meet UK electricity demand more than four times over. Regions identified for the effective deployment of agrivoltaics include Cambridgeshire, Essex, Lincolnshire, and the broader East and South East of England. The approach counters criticism of traditional solar farms, which are often opposed due to concerns about lost farmland, food production and visual impact. Previous studies in Tanzania and Kenya have shown that agrivoltaics not only generates clean energy but can also boost crop yields and conserve water.

26 February 2025

[ladydeath-vanserra]

Inequality + Slums in Velaris

kinda 👀 at the people who think slums and designated Poor™️ areas are supposed to be normal, especially in acotar w Velaris. They *shouldn't* to be normal especially for VeLAriS

The UN Definition of a slum:

.... individuals living under the same roof lacking one or more of the following conditions: access to improved water, access to improved sanitation, sufficient living area, housing durability, and security of tenure

Slums form and grow in different parts of the world for many different reasons. Causes include rapid rural-to-urban migration, economic stagnation and depression, high unemployment, poverty, informal economy, forced or manipulated ghettoization, poor planning, politics, natural disasters, and social conflicts.

Rural–urban migration

Many people move to urban areas primarily because cities promise more jobs, better schools for poor's children, and diverse income opportunities than subsistence farming in rural areas.

this doesn't really apply to Velaris as it is a closed in separated city from the rest of the night court

Urbanization

Some scholars suggest that urbanization creates slums because local governments are unable to manage urbanization, and migrant workers without an affordable place to live in, dwell in slums.

Rapid urbanization drives economic growth and causes people to seek working and investment opportunities in urban areas.

However, as evidenced by poor urban infrastructure and insufficient housing, the local governments sometimes are unable to manage this transition. This incapacity can be attributed to insufficient funds and inexperience to handle and organize problems brought by migration and urbanization.

again, I don't see thus happening due to it being a private and secluded city unless they're taking in a rapid amount of SA survivors- the only outsiders brought into the city

Poor house planning

Insufficient financial resources and lack of coordination in government bureaucracy are two main causes of poor house planning.

This would mean that Rhysand is not paying attention to evenly distributed wealth or mindful government oversight in poor house planning. If there are low income folks, adequate housing is not being provided

Colonialism and segregation

Some of the slums in today's world are a product of urbanization brought by colonialism. For instance, the Europeans arrived in Kenya in the nineteenth century and created urban centers such as Nairobi mainly to serve their financial interests. They regarded the Africans as temporary migrants and needed them only for supply of labour.

The housing policy aiming to accommodate these workers was not well enforced and the government built settlements in the form of single-occupancy bedspaces. Due to the cost of time and money in their movement back and forth between rural and urban areas, their families gradually migrated to the urban centre. As they could not afford to buy houses, slums were thus formed.

I wouldn't say this qualified for Velaris, internally, but as for the Nightcourt as a whole, the separation of the CoN and Illyria from the golden city that is Velaris is very telling

The citizens of the CoN aren't allowed to leave the city and as we have seen from Rhysand, they will have businesses turn CoN citizens away in Velaris

Illyria is full of war torn camps where inequality thrives and there is not adequate housing or supplies, as we see when Cassian said he fought other children for supplies. We also see it when Cassian brings blankets for the Illyrians

Poor infrastructure, social exclusion and economic stagnation

Social exclusion and poor infrastructure forces the poor to adapt to conditions beyond his or her control. Poor families that cannot afford transportation, or those who simply lack any form of affordable public transportation, generally end up in squat settlements within walking distance or close enough to the place of their formal or informal employment.

This overall I feel best exemplifies Velaris. As far as we're made aware there aren't vehicles in Velaris and we don't make notice of any other forms of transportation besides winnowing. The closest we get is flying and we've only seen Cassian, Azriel, Rhysand and Feyre. With Winnowing, it's only Mor and Rhysand and Feyre.

Winnowing is not a common practice ability that all faeries have. There does seem to be a suggestion that there are people who can Winnow, though this is based on Rhysand telling Feyre about his dad being unable to Winnow into the HoW

This leaves many people being unable to have any form of transportation outside of walking.

Informal economy

Many slums grow because of growing informal economy which creates demand for workers. Informal economy is that part of an economy that is neither registered as a business nor licensed, one that does not pay taxes and is not monitored by local, state, or federal government.

There are very few businesses we see in Velaris. We see Rita's, the dive bar and some art studios. There isn't enough shown about legitimate businesses to really show much about an informal economy

Poverty

Urban poverty encourages the formation and demand for slums. With rapid shift from rural to urban life, poverty migrates to urban areas. The urban poor arrives with hope, and very little of anything else. They typically have no access to shelter, basic urban services and social amenities. Slums are often the only option for the urban poor.

Poverty has been witnessed with especially the Illyrians. But within Velaris, it stands to reason that the "grimy part of the city" where Nesta lives, and the bar she frequents, does not have the adequate infrastructure in place for proper wages- which would be Rhysands responsibility to make sure a minimums wage where people could thrive would exist

tldr: Velaris has slums and it's through Rhys' shitty job as a high lord by not creating adequate social systems or infrastructure where poor folks can live without being designated to the "grimy parts of the city"

[cognitivejustice]

Two books that inspire knowledge—and action

Book reviews in the link

Food is much more than what we eat; it is a complex system that intertwines the environment, economy, society, and culture. Understanding and interpreting this intricate yet fascinating system can be challenging, but books serve as valuable guides. Today, we recommend two insightful reads that highlight the stories of innovative chefs and sustainable livestock farming practices. Marianne Landzettel’s The Sustainable Meat Challenge explores how quality meat production can go hand in hand with environmental and animal welfare. Meanwhile, Carole Counihan and Susanne Højlund’s Chefs, Restaurants, and Culinary Sustainability provides an overview of sustainable practices embraced by key figures in the restaurant industry. Notably, this book includes a chapter on the Slow Food Cooks’ Alliance in Kenya—a compelling story of collective commitment and activism, as narrated by Michele Fontefrancesco and Dauro Mattia Zocchi, researchers at the University of Gastronomic Sciences.

[beardedmrbean]

Jan. 11 (UPI) -- A leading U.S. consumer advocacy group filed a lawsuit against Starbucks, alleging the ubiquitous coffee chain misled consumers by claiming its brewed products are produced from "100% ethical" sources.

The National Consumers League announced the legal claim in a statement Wednesday, citing "widespread evidence the company relies on farms and cooperatives that commit egregious labor and human rights violations."

The complaint, filed in Superior Court in the District of Columbia, alleges Starbucks utilized deceptive marketing to conceal the origins of its coffee and tea products.

The Seattle-based coffee giant immediately refuted the accusations in a statement, saying the company is prepared to "aggressively defend against the asserted claims that Starbucks has misrepresented its ethical sourcing commitments to customers."

"We take allegations like these extremely seriously and are actively engaged with farms to ensure they adhere to our standards," Starbucks said. "Each supply chain is required to undergo re-verification regularly and we remain committed to working with our business partners to meet the expectations detailed in our Global Human Rights Statement."

The suit alleges that Starbucks sourced its branded ingredients through farms and cooperatives with "documented history of child labor, forced labor, sexual harassment and assault and other human rights abuses."

The lawsuit seeks an injunction against Starbucks, penalties and punitive damages, according to Stacey Leyton, the attorney for the plaintiff.

"The lawsuit aims to hold Starbucks accountable to D.C. law, to the consumers who have relied on its false and misleading representations and to the farmworkers who are enduring conditions no human being should have to suffer," Leyton said

Sally Greenberg, chief executive of the National Consumers League, said she was "committed to exposing and reining in these deceptive practices and holding Starbucks accountable."

"On every bag of coffee and box of K-cups sitting on grocery store shelves, Starbucks is telling consumers a lie," she said. "The facts are clear: there are significant human rights and labor abuses across Starbucks' supply chain, and consumers have a right to know exactly what they're paying for."

Two years ago, Starbucks' primary coffee supplier in Brazil was accused by a local labor prosecutor of enslaving more than 30 migrant laborers who were forced to work excessive hours while hauling 100-pound sacks of coffee on their backs.

"Starbucks' failure to adopt meaningful reforms to its coffee and tea sourcing practices in the face of these critiques and documented labor abuses on its source farms is wholly inconsistent with a reasonable consumer's understanding of what it means to be 'committed to 100% ethical' sourcing," the complaint says. "Similarly, Starbucks' failure to disclose to consumers the unreliability of these certification programs and their limitations as a guarantee of ethical sourcing are misleading omissions material to the decision-making of a reasonable consumer."

The lawsuit also cites several investigations targeting Starbucks over the past decade in Brazil, Kenya, Guatemala, which uncovered evidence of forced child labor, hazardous and grueling work conditions for little to no pay, and sexual abuse.

[plethoraworldatlas]

On August 27, African faith, farming, and environmental leaders came together to launch an unusual statement. Their open letter was addressed to “the Gates Foundation and other funders of industrial agriculture.” It charged these funders with promoting a type of corporate, industrial agriculture that does not respect African ecosystems or agricultural traditions.

The letter was organized by the Southern African Faith Communities’ Environment Institute (SAFCEI), and has over 150 signatories. Its release was timed to influence the Africa Food Systems Forum in Kigali, which starts today. Partners of this conference include the Rwandan government, AGRA, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and other philanthropies, agribusiness companies, and aid organizations.

The open letter takes particular aim at two linked organizations. The Gates Foundation is primarily known for its public health investments, but has also made major inroads into agriculture. In Africa much of this work extends through the Nairobi-based AGRA (previously known as the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa). The Gates Foundation is a cofounder and the largest donor to AGRA. Other large donors include the UK and US governments.

Under a basket of policies dubbed the “green revolution,” AGRA, the Gates Foundation, and likeminded institutions have sought to substantially increase the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and commercial seeds in Africa. This has centered on developing new seeds and a network of sellers. The aim has been to dramatically increase agricultural output, in order to reduce hunger and elevate farmer incomes.

But by AGRA’s own admission, it failed in its goal to double crop yields and incomes for 30 million farmers by 2020. In fact, some critics argue, AGRA has made things worse.

According to an external assessment by Timothy A. Wise of Tufts University, severe hunger in AGRA countries increased by 30% between AGRA’s founding and 2018. Crop yield increases have been modest, and where they exist, they haven’t always been enough to cover the higher cost of farming with commercial seeds and agricultural inputs. Dependence on fertilizer has increased the debt and financial precarity of the small farmers who make up the majority of farmers in Africa. In some cases the limited yield increases have also been temporary, as soil fertility has diminished due to monoculture farming and fertilizer use. For instance, Ethiopian farmers “will say that the soil is corrupted, meaning it cannot produce food” without synthetic fertilizer, reports Million Belay of the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA).

There have been knock-on effects, Belay says. For instance, Zambian farmers who have become indebted, due to synthetic fertilizer purchases, have had less money for food and their children’s education.

In other words, many farmers’ families are poorer and hungrier than before, while the land itself is less productive.

While AGRA hasn’t managed to double farmer income and yields, it has succeeded in shifting government policies for the worse, according to Belay. These include the dilution of regional biosafety regulations and fertilizer regulations, Belay says. In Kenya, farmers can now face prison time for saving or sharing seeds.

A new AFSA briefing note states that AGRA is seeking to place consultants within government offices and “directly crafting policies at the continental, national, and local levels.” This includes a new 10-year policy for agricultural investment in Zambia.

All, in all, it’s a highly commercialized, elite, and often rich-world vision of African agriculture. Tim Schwab writes in The Bill Gates Problem: Reckoning with the Myth of the Good Billionaire, “Rarely, however, do the targets of Gates’s goodwill, the global poor or smallholder farmers, have a seat at the table. In the case of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa, or AGRA, the allies include a bevy of corporate partners: Syngenta, Bayer (Monsanto), Corteva Agriscience, John Deere, Nestlé, and even Microsoft.” AGRA has been criticized for aiding its agricultural partners to expand in Africa.

[bumblebeeappletree]

We meet Thuch Ajack, the co-founder of United African Farm.

In African culture, most people are raised as farmers, with their own small plot of land, says Melbourne resident Thuch Ajak. When moving to Australia many migrants lost that connection to growing food, farming and the soil, which is why Thuch set up his project. He also works with the community and at the Asylum Seekers Resource Centre, and on community radio.

Members involved in the farm project come from right across Africa, so Thuch says the land unites people and is a meeting place.

Thuch was born during the war in South Sudan and when he was 10, his family fled to Kenya, living in Kakuma refugee camp. He returned in 2006 to help rebuild, and it was then he had the opportunity to go to university, studying agriculture and specialising in crop protection.

When war restarted in 2013 he says it “was really devastating”. He decided to move to Australia in 2015 and is now married with three children.

He found it hard to get into the agricultural sector so started looking at starting a market garden on his own. First, he volunteered at Joe’s Market Garden at CERES to make some connections, and then he started growing in his own backyard in Melbourne’s west. Here he met Mama Queyea Tuazama, a community leader with a lot of traditional knowledge, who was also looking for some land, and they joined forces to found the United African Farm.

The farm is on just over one hectare (3 acres) and it’s divided into two areas: a community space for gatherings and festivals and a food growing area.

Coming from a fertile, tropical country, Thuch was used to planting a seed and knowing it would germinate. In the cold Melbourne climate he is adjusting to allowing 8 weeks for seedlings! And of course, many tropical crops won’t grow or can only be grown in a small climate window.

So people have had to learn to use different crops.

In the productive area many crops are grown in raised beds, partly to make it easier for the elderly community members, but also because they are on low-lying clay soil so need the improved drainage.

Thuch enjoys connecting younger members of the community, especially those who have grown up in urban areas, back to their culture and to the soil.

[adalidda]

Unlocking the Export Potential of Fresh Fruits from West and East Africa: A Comprehensive Guide for Agricultural Cooperatives 

October 14, 2024

West and East Africa’s fertile and diverse landscapes offer ideal conditions for producing a wide range of fresh fruits with immense export potential. By capitalizing on this agricultural strength, cooperatives in these regions have the chance to access lucrative global markets, fostering economic growth, sustainable development, and greater prosperity for their communities. To make this vision a reality, understanding the export landscape, ensuring consistent production, and building a value chain that prioritizes quality and reliability are crucial.

Fresh Fruits with High Export Potential 

West Africa:

1. Mangoes (April to September)

Countries: Mali, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Burkina Faso

Varieties: Kent, Keitt, Tommy Atkins, Amélie

2. Pineapples (Year-round, peaks in December-April & June-August)

Countries: Ivory Coast, Ghana, Benin

Varieties: Smooth Cayenne, MD2 (Golden)

3. Bananas and Plantains (Year-round)

Countries: Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon

Varieties: Cavendish, Red bananas, French plantain

4. Papayas (Year-round)

Countries: Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Ghana

Varieties: Red Lady, Solo

5. Citrus Fruits (October to April)

Countries: Senegal, Nigeria, Ghana

Varieties: Valencia, Washington Navel, Tahiti lime

East Africa:

1. Avocados (March-September for Hass, October-March for Fuerte)

Countries: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia

Varieties: Hass, Fuerte

2. Passion Fruits (Year-round, peaks March-August)

Countries: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda

Varieties: Purple, Yellow

3. Pineapples (Year-round, peaks in December-April)

Countries: Kenya, Uganda

Varieties: Smooth Cayenne, MD2

4. Mangoes (November-April)

Countries: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda

 Varieties: Apple Mango, Ngowe, Kent

5. Bananas (Year-round)

Countries: Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda

Varieties: Cavendish, East African Highland bananas (Matoke)

6. Papayas (Year-round)

Countries: Kenya, Tanzania

Varieties: Solo, Sunrise

Strategies for Ensuring Year-Round Supply 

To build a sustainable fresh fruit export business, strategic planning and innovation are essential. Cooperatives should focus on the following:

1. Crop Diversification and Planting Cycles

Selecting early, mid, and late-season fruit varieties can extend harvest periods, ensuring consistent supply.

Staggered planting schedules provide continuous production, reducing supply gaps.

2. Modern Agricultural Practices

Efficient irrigation systems like drip and sprinkler systems help maintain yields even during dry spells.

Regular soil health assessments and the use of organic fertilizers support optimal crop growth.

3. Investments in Post-Harvest Handling and Storage

Cold chain infrastructure is critical for preserving freshness and quality from farm to market.

Advanced packaging protects fruits during transportation by air cargo, enhancing visual appeal and market value.

Building a Reliable and Quality-Oriented Value Chain 

To succeed internationally, cooperatives need a value chain that is transparent, reliable, and focused on delivering high-quality products. Key elements include:

1. Certification and Quality Standards

Organic certification and GlobalGAP compliance open access to high-demand markets.

2. Strong Partnerships and Contract Farming

Long-term partnerships with buyers and suppliers ensure market stability and predictable pricing.

3. Leveraging Technology

Real-time monitoring of crops and e-commerce platforms facilitates efficient supply chain management and direct market access.

4. Capacity Building and Farmer Training

Continuous training in modern farming techniques improves yield and product quality.

5. Ensuring Traceability and Transparency

Traceability systems and transparent operations enhance trust with buyers, fostering long-term relationships.

Recommendations for Enhancing Quality and Reliability

1. Quality Control Measures

Strict quality checks throughout the supply chain ensure that only top-grade fruits are exported, minimizing rejection rates.

2. Supply Chain Reliability

Contingency plans for disruptions and long-term logistics contracts ensure timely delivery to export markets.

3. Sustainable Practices

Eco-friendly farming techniques like crop rotation and organic compost usage improve soil health and sustainability.

Conclusion

The potential for fresh fruit exports from West and East Africa is vast, with the capacity to transform lives and communities. By focusing on quality, sustainability, and building a reliable value chain, cooperatives can thrive in global markets. Investing in organic certification, modern agricultural methods, and transparent supply chain management will set African fresh fruits apart on the world stage. Now is the time to harness Africa’s agricultural potential and position it as a global leader in fresh fruit exports.

I hope you enjoyed reading this post and learned something new and useful from it. If you did, please share it with your friends and colleagues who might be interested in Agriculture and Agribusiness.

Mr. Kosona Chriv

Group Chief Sales and Marketing Officer 

Solina / Sahel Agri-Sol Group 

SOLINA GROUPE CÔTE D’IVOIRE

Cocody, Riviera Bonoumin

Lot 738 Ilot 56 Section ZT parcelle 67

11 BP 1085 Abidjan 11

Ivory Coast

WhatsApp/Telegram global marketing and sales : +223 90 99 1099

Email: sales@sahelagrisol.com

Web sites

English https://sahelagrisol.com/en

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Deutsch https://sahelagrisol.com/de

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简体中文 https://sahelagrisol.com/zh

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Social media

BlueSky @sahelagrisol.bsky.social https://bsky.app/profile/sahelagrisol.bsky.social

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Sahel Agri-Sol, an agribusiness group headquartered in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, with operations spanning West and East Africa, is committed to bringing the finest agricultural products from the Sahel and surrounding regions to the global marketplace.

Our mission is rooted in promoting inclusive economic growth, fostering sustainable development for farming communities, and preserving their cultural and environmental heritage.

By partnering closely with agricultural cooperatives and local producers across the Sahel, West, and East Africa, we guarantee fair compensation for their premium crops, driving prosperity and resilience in rural areas.

Photo: Fresh mangoes on display at a bustling market in Mali (credit: Sahel Agri-Sol / Public Domain)

#AfricanAgriculture #FreshFruitExports #SustainableFarming #OrganicCertification #GlobalTrade #WestAfrica #EastAfrica #MangoExports #AvocadoExports #PineappleFarming #ColdChain #SupplyChainOptimization #FarmerEmpowerment #Agribusiness #AgricultureInnovation

[cogitoergofun]

A consumer advocacy group is suing Starbucks, the world’s largest coffee brand, for false advertising, alleging that it sources coffee and tea from farms with human rights and labor abuses, while touting its commitment to ethical sourcing.

The case, filed in a Washington, D.C., court on Wednesday on behalf of American consumers, alleges that the coffee giant is misleading the public by widely marketing its “100% ethical” sourcing commitment on its coffee and tea products, when it knowingly sources from suppliers with “documented, severe human rights and labor abuses.”

“On every bag of coffee and box of K-cups that Starbucks sells, Starbucks is heralding its commitment to 100% ethical sourcing,” said Sally Greenberg, CEO of the National Consumers League, the legal advocacy group bringing the case. “But it’s pretty clear that there are significant human rights and labor abuses across Starbucks’ supply chain.”

The lawsuit cites reporting about human rights and labor abuses on specific coffee and tea farms in Guatemala, Kenya and Brazil, and alleges that Starbucks has continued to purchase from these suppliers in spite of the documented violations.

[...]

Starbucks, like many companies, uses third-party certification programs to ensure the integrity of its supply chains for tea and cocoa. The company launched its own sourcing standards, called C.A.F.E. Practices, in 2004 to oversee its coffee sourcing in more than 30 countries. The verification program is administered by a company called SCS Global Services in collaboration with Conservation International.

The verification program holds Starbucks coffee suppliers to more than 200 environmental, labor and quality standards. Farms that fail to meet those can be barred from supplying the company until corrective action is confirmed.

But there have long been issues with how effective such programs are, according to experts.

In 2021, Rainforest Alliance, the third-party that certifies Starbucks’ supply chains for tea and cocoa, was sued in D.C. court by another consumer advocacy group over “false and deceptive marketing” of Hershey’s cocoa as “100 percent certified and sustainable.” A judge ruled last year that the case could move forward only against Hershey, as the manufacturer of the products. 

Rainforest Alliance did not immediately respond to a request for comment. 

“There is this huge pile of evidence that shows that the mechanisms that [certifiers are] relying on to address problems like forced labor, child labor, gender based violence, are extremely flawed and not working very well,” said Genevieve LeBaron, director of the School of Public Policy at Canada’s Simon Fraser University.

“We have incident after incident that’s uncovered in these supply chains. And still, companies go around and make these kinds of claims that they have 100% sustainable or ethical sourcing” said LeBaron, whose research into cocoa and tea has shown that the prevalence and severity of labor violations on certified and uncertified farms was “basically identical."

LeBaron, who has consulted for the United Nations on global supply chain ethics, said the issue is not unique to Starbucks, but ethical commitments from large purchasing players like Starbucks can have an outsize impact on the integrity of supply chains if they are backed up.

Starbucks has 10 “farmer support centers” in coffee-producing regions around the globe, including Brazil and Guatemala, but does not release public lists of certified suppliers, making it difficult to track how often its suppliers are found to be engaging in labor abuses.

“I think it is really hard to have an ethical supply chain. And I would say, you know, a lot of the reason for that is that, especially in agriculture, there’s a sort of status quo of sourcing goods way below the cost of actually producing them. And as long as you have that, you’re gonna have problems,” LeBaron said.

[endrusmithreal]

Comprehensive Analysis of Global Mango Market: Prices, Trends, and Forecasts Unveiled

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Mango in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa). As one of the most beloved fruits globally, the mango market remains a subject of intense interest among consumers, traders, and researchers alike.

Definition of Mango:

Mango, scientifically known as Mangifera indica, is a tropical stone fruit known for its fibrous, juicy flesh, sweet flavor, and vibrant color. Originating from South Asia over 4,000 years ago, mangoes are now cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. They play a significant role in the dietary, cultural, and economic frameworks of many countries.

Key Details About the Mango Price Trend:

In recent years, the global mango market has witnessed fluctuating prices due to a myriad of factors ranging from climatic conditions, production volumes, and export-import policies to consumer demand patterns.

Request for Free Sample: https://www.procurementresource.com/resource-center/mango-price-trends/pricerequest

Asia: As the largest producer, particularly India and Thailand, Asia has seen a significant impact on prices due to varying monsoon patterns affecting crop yield.

Europe: Mango prices in Europe have remained relatively high due to increased demand and the cost of imports, mainly from Brazil and West Africa.

North America: The U.S. market has experienced a moderate increase in mango prices, driven by consistent consumer demand and import dynamics.

Latin America: Countries like Mexico and Brazil have reported stable prices owing to balanced production and export levels.

Middle East & Africa: Price trends have been influenced by logistical challenges and fluctuating export demands, particularly in Egypt and Kenya.

Industrial Uses Impacting Mango Prices:

Beyond fresh consumption, industrial applications of mangoes significantly impact market dynamics and pricing. Mangoes are extensively used in the production of juices, jams, dried fruits, and other processed foods. The burgeoning demand for natural and organic cosmetic products incorporating mango butter and extracts also influences the market. These industrial uses have prompted increased demand, influencing both domestic and international pricing structures.

Key Players in the Mango Market:

Several key players dominate the mango market, each playing a crucial role in shaping industry trends:

Del Monte Foods: A leading producer and distributor of fresh and processed mangoes across various continents.

Dole Food Company: Known for its extensive supply chain and distribution network, ensuring mango availability year-round.

Chiquita Brands International: A significant player with robust mango sourcing and distribution strategies.

Alphonso Mangoes: Specializing in premium mango varieties, particularly from India.

Kent Mangoes: Major suppliers of mangoes in North and South America.

These companies not only influence pricing and availability but also engage in sustainable and innovative cultivation practices to meet global demand.

Latest News in the Mango Market:

Innovations in Mango Cultivation: Recent advancements in biotechnology and organic farming have led to more sustainable and efficient mango production.

Expansion of Mango Markets: New markets in Eastern Europe and Central Asia are opening up, driven by changing consumer preferences and increased disposable incomes.

Climate Impact Studies: Ongoing research on the impact of climate change on mango production is shaping future agricultural practices and market readiness.

Conclusion:

The mango market remains vibrant and dynamic, influenced by a combination of cultural significance, consumer preference, and innovative market strategies. As analyzed by Procurement Resource, understanding the intricacies of mango pricing, trends, and forecasts is essential for stakeholders across the supply chain to make informed decisions. With continuous monitoring and adaptation, the mango industry is poised for sustainable growth and expansion into new markets. For more detailed insights and the latest updates, visit Company's Website.

Procurement Resource provides in-depth market analysis and procurement intelligence, offering critical insights into market prices, trends, and supply chain dynamics. Our comprehensive reports and forecasts help businesses across sectors make better purchasing decisions, enhancing profitability and market responsiveness.

[rainbowriderjt]

Oh! There It Is!

Of Course The MSM Like Google Maps & Wikipedia Don't Show It! Just In Case This Get's Taken Down Here's The Whole Article!

The existence or non-existence of a place called “Hawaii, Kenya” is an interesting geographic question that many people may have wondered about before.

At first glance, it may seem unlikely that such a place exists, since Hawaii and Kenya are separated by thousands of miles of ocean. However, a deeper dive reveals that there is in fact a locale in Kenya with the unusual name of “Hawaii”. Keep reading to learn all about this uniquely named village in the Kenyan countryside.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: There is indeed a small village called Hawaii located in Kenya’s Rift Valley province. It was given this name due to its physical resemblance to the Hawaiian islands.

The Origins of Hawaii, Kenya How the Village Got Its Name The name “Hawaii” may bring to mind images of beautiful beaches and tropical paradise, but did you know that there is also a village named Hawaii in Kenya? The origins of the name can be traced back to the early colonial era when British settlers arrived in the area.

The village was named after the Hawaiian Islands, which were gaining popularity at the time due to their exotic appeal.

The settlers were inspired by the natural beauty and cultural richness of Hawaii, and they wanted to bring a touch of that enchantment to their new home in Kenya. Thus, the village of Hawaii was born.

Geographic Location and Description The village of Hawaii is located in the western part of Kenya, in the Nandi County. It is situated in the highlands region, surrounded by lush green landscapes and rolling hills.

The village is known for its picturesque scenery, with breathtaking views of tea plantations and expansive fields. The climate in Hawaii is generally mild, with warm temperatures throughout the year.

The village is home to a vibrant community, with residents engaged in agriculture, particularly tea farming.

The village of Hawaii in Kenya may not be as well-known as its namesake in the Pacific, but it has its own unique charm and beauty.

If you ever find yourself in the western part of Kenya, make sure to pay a visit to Hawaii and experience its natural wonders and warm hospitality.

Life in Hawaii, Kenya When most people think of Hawaii, they envision a tropical paradise in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. However, there is also a place called Hawaii in Kenya, which offers a unique and fascinating experience.

Let’s take an in-depth look at the life in Hawaii, Kenya, exploring its local economy, livelihoods, community, and culture.

Local Economy and Livelihoods The economy of Hawaii, Kenya is primarily based on agriculture, with a focus on coffee and tea production. The region is known for its fertile soil and ideal climate, making it perfect for growing these crops.

The coffee and tea plantations not only provide employment opportunities for the local population but also contribute significantly to the country’s export industry.

Aside from agriculture, tourism is also an important sector in Hawaii, Kenya. The pristine beaches, coral reefs, and diverse wildlife attract visitors from all over the world.

This influx of tourists has led to the development of resorts, hotels, and other tourist-related businesses, providing additional job opportunities for the locals.

Furthermore, the fishing industry plays a vital role in the local economy. The coastal communities rely on fishing as a source of income and food security. The rich marine biodiversity in the area provides ample opportunities for fishermen to sustain their livelihoods.

Community and Culture The community in Hawaii, Kenya is known for its warm hospitality and strong sense of community. The locals take pride in their cultural heritage and are eager to share it with visitors. Traditional dances, music, and art are an integral part of their daily lives, showcasing the vibrant and diverse culture of the region.

The community also places great importance on sustainable practices, particularly in relation to their natural resources. Conservation efforts are in place to protect the environment and preserve the unique ecosystems found in Hawaii, Kenya.

This commitment to sustainability not only benefits the local community but also contributes to the preservation of the region’s natural beauty for future generations.

Visiting Hawaii, Kenya offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse oneself in a different way of life. Whether it’s exploring the lush coffee plantations, enjoying the stunning beaches, or experiencing the rich cultural traditions, Hawaii, Kenya has something to offer for everyone.

For more information about Hawaii, Kenya, you can visit the official website of the Kenya Tourism Board: https://www.magicalkenya.com/.

[farmerstrend]

What Makes a Great Agronomist? Unpacking the Traits of Agricultural Excellence

Agronomists are the unsung heroes shaping the future of farming. They’re the bridge between science and soil, the architects of abundance in a world hungry for both food and sustainability. Over the years, after sifting through hundreds of agronomist resumes and meeting countless professionals in this field, I’ve come to realize that greatness in agronomy isn’t just about a degree or a title.…

[probablyasocialecologist]

On September 5, the annual Africa Food Systems Forum, organised by the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), will launch in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Government officials, experts, policymakers and business leaders will come together to discuss – in their words – “building back better food systems and food sovereignty”.

[...]

[AGRA] has failed to deliver on its own promises to increase productivity and incomes for 20 million farm households while halving food insecurity by 2020. Of the 13 countries it has primarily worked with, three have reduced the number of malnourished people over the past 15 years: Zambia by 2 percent, Ethiopia by 8 percent and Ghana by 36 percent, still short of the 50 percent target. In countries like Kenya and Nigeria, both of which have embraced industrial agriculture policies, the number of undernourished people has grown by 44 percent and 247 percent, respectively. Taken together, the population of undernourished people in the 13 states AGRA has primarily worked with has actually risen by 50 percent over the past 15 years. A donor-commissioned evaluation released in 2022 also confirmed that AGRA “did not meet its headline goal of increased incomes and food security for 9 million smallholders” in the previous five years. That is because the industrial agriculture practices AGRA and others promote degrade soils over time and decrease productivity – as our research has shown. Still, under pressure from foreign donors and big agribusiness, countries across Africa have been adopting policies that reflect this harmful approach to agriculture.

[beardedmrbean]

French farming unions are taking aim at the European Union’s free-trade agreements, which they say open the door to unfair competition from products arriving from overseas. At a time when the EU is urging farmers to adopt more sustainable – and sometimes more costly – agricultural practices, unions say these trade deals are making it hard for them to stay solvent.

French farmers say that one of their biggest fears is that Chilean apples, Brazilian grains and Canadian beef will flood the European market, thereby undermining their livelihoods. France’s farmers continued to demonstrate on the country’s motorways on Wednesday, protesting against rising costs, over-regulation and free-trade agreements –partnerships between the EU and exporting nations that the farming unions say leads to unfair competition. 

The EU has signed several free-trade agreements in recent years, all with the objective of facilitating the movement of goods and services. But farmers say the deals bring with them insurmountable challenges.

"These agreements aim to reduce customs duties, with maximum quotas for certain agricultural products and non-tariff barriers," said Elvire Fabry, senior researcher at the Jacques Delors Institute, a French think-tank dedicated to European affairs. "They also have an increasingly broad regulatory scope to promote European standards for investment, protection of intellectual property, geographical indications and sustainable development standards."

South American trade deal in the crosshairs

Some non-EU countries – such as Norway, Liechtenstein and Iceland – maintain comprehensive free-trade agreements with the EU because they are part of the European Economic Area. This allows them to benefit from the free movement of goods, services, capital and people.

Other nations farther afield have signed more variable agreements with the EU, including Canada, Japan, Mexico, Vietnam and Ukraine. The EU also recently signed an accord with Kenya and a deal with New Zealand that will come into force this year; negotiations are also under way with India and Australia.    

However, a draft agreement between the EU and the South American trade bloc Mercosur is creating the most concern. Under discussion since the 1990s, this trade partnership between Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay would create the world's largest free-trade area, a market encompassing 780 million people. 

French farmers are particularly concerned about the deal’s possible effect on agriculture. The most recent version of the text introduces quotas for Mercosur countries to export 99,000 tonnes of beef, 100,000 tonnes of poultry and 180,000 tonnes of sugar per year, with little or no customs duties imposed. In exchange, duties would also be lowered on exports from the EU on many “protected designation of origin” (PDO) products. 

At a time when the EU is urging farmers to adopt more sustainable agricultural practices, French unions say these agreements would open the door to massive imports – at more competitive prices – of products that do not meet the same environmental standards as those originating in Europe. French farmers are calling out what they say is unfair competition from farmers in South America who can grow GMO crops and use growth-promoting antibiotics on livestock, which is banned in the EU. 

Trade unions from various sectors went into action after the European Commission informed them on January 24 that negotiations with Mercosur could be concluded "before the end of this mandate", i.e., before the European Parliament elections in June.      

The FNSEA, France’s biggest farming union, immediately called for a "clear rejection of free-trade agreements" while the pro-environmental farming group Confédération Paysanne (Farmers' Confederation) called for an "immediate end to negotiations" on this type of agreement.   

A mixed record

"In reality, the impact of these free-trade agreements varies from sector to sector," said Fabry. "Negotiations prior to agreements aim to calibrate the opening up of trade to limit the negative impact on the most exposed sectors. And, at the same time, these sectors can benefit from other agreements. In the end, it's a question of finding an overall balance."

This disparity is glaringly obvious in the agricultural sector. "The wine and spirits industry as well as the dairy industry stand to gain more than livestock farmers, for example," said Fabry. These sectors are the main beneficiaries of free-trade agreements, according to a 2023 report by the French National Assembly.

"The existence of trade agreements that allow customs duty differentials to be eliminated is an 'over-determining factor' in the competitiveness of French wines," wrote FranceAgriMer, a national establishment for agriculture and maritime products under the authority of the French ministry of agriculture in a 2021 report. The majority of free-trade agreements lower or abolish customs duties to allow the export of many PDO products, a category to which many wines belong.

However, the impact on meat is less clear-cut. While FranceAgriMer says the balance between imports and exports appears to be in the EU's favour for pork, poultry exports seem to be declining as a result of the agreements. Hence the fears over the planned treaty with New Zealand, which provides for 36,000 tonnes of mutton to be imported into the EU, equivalent to 45% of French production in 2022. France,however, still has a large surplus of grains except for soya. 

‘A bargaining chip’

Beyond the impact on agriculture, "this debate on free-trade agreements must take into account other issues", said Fabry. "We are in a situation where the EU is seeking to secure its supplies and in particular its supplies of strategic minerals. Brazil's lithium, cobalt, graphite and other resource reserves should not be overlooked."

The agreement with Chile should enable strategic minerals to be exported in exchange for agricultural products. Germany strongly supports the agreement with Mercosur, as it sees it as an outlet for its industrial sectors, according to Fabry.

"In virtually all free-trade agreements, agriculture is always used as a bargaining chip in exchange for selling cars or Airbus planes," Véronique Marchesseau, general-secretary of the Confédération Paysanne, told AFP.

Michèle Boudoin, president of the French National Sheep Federation, told AFP that the agreement with New Zealand will "destabilise the lamb market in France".  

"We know that Germany needs to export its cars, that France needs to sell its wheat, and we're told that we need an ally in the Pacific tocounter China and Russia. But if that is the case, then we need help to be able to produce top-of-the-line lamb, for example," she said.

Finally, "there is a question of influence", said Fabry. "These agreements also remain a way for the EU to promote its environmental standards to lead its partners along the path of ecological transition, even if this has to be negotiated," said Fabry. 

Marc Fesneau, the French minister of agriculture, made the same argument. "In most cases, the agreements have been beneficial, including to French agriculture," Fesneau wrote on X last week, adding: "They will be even more so if we ensure that our standards are respected."

Mercosur negotiations suspended? 

As the farmers’ promised “siege” of Paris and other major locations across France continues, the French government has been trying to reassure agricultural workers about Mercosur, even though President Emmanuel Macron and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva relaunched negotiations in December. "France is clearly opposed to the signing of the Mercosur treaty," Prime Minister Gabriel Attal acknowledged last week.

The Élysée Palace even said on Monday evening that EU negotiations with the South American bloc had been suspended because of France's opposition to the treaty. The conditions are "not ripe" for concluding the negotiations, said Eric Mamer, spokesman for the European Commission. "However, discussions are ongoing." 

Before being adopted, the agreement would have to be passed unanimously by the European Parliament, then ratified individually by the 27 EU member states.