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Roads and access points must be wide and clear enough for emergency vehicles.(Image credit: Husqvarna)

Equipment

With rising global temperatures driving up the risk of wildfires, farmers across the Western Cape are being urged to take fire preparedness more seriously than ever

According to the Winelands Fire Protection Association, a single-degree increase in temperature raises the risk of fire by nearly 30%. This wasn’t just a statistic in theory during the summer of 2023/2024, over 6,000 fires tore through nearly 100,000 hectares in the region, marking one of the worst fire seasons in recent memory.

As another hot, dry summer approaches, Stefan de Ridder, chairperson of the association, has issued a stark warning: “It’s going to be another hell-raiser unless farmers focus on minimising the risks.” Beyond the physical destruction fires can bring, the legal and financial responsibilities weigh heavily on landowners. “If a fire starts on your farm, you’re legally and financially liable for all the damage it causes to other properties,” he explains.

Despite the common practice of creating firebreaks, de Ridder stresses that these alone are not enough. Comprehensive fire readiness involves a combination of access, equipment, training, and understanding the environment. Roads and access points must be wide and clear enough for emergency vehicles, while tools such as chainsaws, water pumps, and fire beaters need to be in good working order. Staff should be properly trained in fire response and provided with protective gear, while emergency contact numbers should be easily accessible.

Reliable water access is another essential factor. In many cases, farms rely on electricity to pump water which may not be an option during power outages. This is where portable, petrol-powered pumps come in. De Ridder particularly recommends high-pressure units for tackling underground fires, especially in sensitive areas like fynbos where roots may continue to smoulder unseen.

Understanding how different vegetation behaves during a fire is also critical. Trees like gum and even green pinecones can explode when burning, increasing danger and spreading fire more rapidly. That’s why periodic, controlled burns are sometimes necessary not just for safety, but for the health of the ecosystem. “Periodic fires are therefore essential for protea germination and sustainability,” de Ridder says, “and when they aren’t burnt, old proteas die and become hazardous fire fuel.”

He trusts Husqvarna equipment for this work, citing the brand’s reliability, affordability, and portability. “The W25P is great for transferring water and the 321SP high-pressure pump means I don’t have to dig up fynbos roots to make sure they’re not alight.”

De Ridder’s fire-fighting approach includes strategically placing vehicles equipped with pumps and water tanks near hotspots, turning natural water sources like streams into assets during a fire. “Fire is a natural part of our ecosystems,” he concludes. “So we need to be prepared. With the right tools and knowledge, we can protect our farms and ensure their resilience in the face of wildfires.”

ScoutAI is capable of identifying issues before they become widespread, enabling timely interventions.

Equipment

CultiWise ScoutAI, an advanced autonomous crop monitoring system, has been shortlisted for the prestigious DLG Agrifuture Concept Winner Award

Developed by Czech agritech startup Skymaps, the system combines artificial intelligence with data from satellites, drones, sprayers, and field sensors to help farmers detect crop issues earlier and apply treatments more precisely.

Traditionally, crop scouting has been a manual and time-consuming task, with farmers walking fields to identify problems like pests, disease, or nutrient deficiencies. ScoutAI transforms this process by automating surveillance and decision-making. The system fuses data from multiple sources—satellite imagery, drone flights, smart sprayer cameras, and in-field sensors—into one integrated platform. This allows for faster, more accurate detection of crop stress and reduces dependency on isolated tools and manual monitoring.

ScoutAI is capable of identifying issues before they become widespread, enabling timely interventions. The precision and early detection mean inputs like fertilisers, pesticides, and water can be used more efficiently. Farmers using the system have reported savings of up to 50% on fertiliser and water, and over 60% on pesticide usage. In addition to cutting costs and environmental impact, ScoutAI also saves time and labour, offering farmers a constant digital overview of their fields.

A major strength of ScoutAI is its interoperability. Many existing agricultural tools—such as drones, sprayer logs, and weather apps—operate independently, often without the ability to integrate. In contrast, ScoutAI brings these tools together into a single intelligent system. It acts like a smart security network for crops, continuously monitoring fields and spotting anomalies, such as unexpected bare patches or weed outbreaks.

Once a potential issue is detected using daily satellite imagery, ScoutAI automatically deploys farm drones housed in smart docking stations around the field. These drones fly to the affected area, capturing close-up, high-resolution images. Onboard AI processes this data in real time. Simultaneously, cameras installed on the sprayer booms offer live insights as they move through the field, while in-ground sensors monitor microclimate conditions and pest activity.

All the collected data is analysed on the cloud-based CultiWise platform, which then provides farmers with clear, actionable recommendations. This includes prescription maps for precise, variable-rate treatments such as spot spraying. The entire process, from detection to diagnosis, takes just minutes and is displayed through a user-friendly dashboard.

By integrating and automating previously disconnected tools, ScoutAI is redefining how farmers monitor and manage their crops—making agriculture smarter, more sustainable, and more efficient.

Sabanto launches tractor tech revolution in Australia.(Image credit: Sabanto)

Equipment

In a bold move set to reshape the future of farming, US-based agricultural technology company Sabanto has officially expanded its autonomous tractor technology to Australia

The company’s innovative retrofit systems, which transform standard tractors into fully autonomous workhorses, are now available to Australian farmers through strategic partnerships with OneAg and Vantage NSW.

This marks Sabanto’s first major international expansion and a significant milestone for agri-tech in Australia. Instead of requiring costly investment in new machinery, Sabanto’s technology offers a smarter, cost-effective solution by upgrading the equipment farmers already trust and use.

“Australia’s agricultural sector is highly innovative, and we’re eager to partner with local experts to deliver affordable autonomy to farmers,” said Craig Rupp, CEO and Founder of Sabanto. “Together with OneAg and Vantage NSW, we’re helping farmers adopt this technology with the local expertise and service they already trust.”

Sabanto’s retrofit autonomy kits integrate seamlessly with a wide range of existing tractors, enabling 24/7 operation without the need for constant human supervision. This leap forward not only improves labour efficiency but also allows producers to tackle time-sensitive tasks such as seeding and spraying with greater precision and reliability.

The partnership with OneAg, a leader in precision agriculture, reflects a shared vision for the future of farm operations. “Autonomy represents one of the biggest shifts in how we’ll approach farming over the next decade,” said Michael Munro, Head of Autonomy at OneAg. “Sabanto’s technology allows us to expand what’s possible for productivity. I’m excited to lead this next chapter and work closely with our partners and customers to make autonomous farming a reality.”

Vantage NSW, another key collaborator, brings in-depth knowledge of precision ag systems across the full farming lifecycle. Founder and Director Michael Casey shared, “Our customers want smarter ways to do more with the equipment they already own. Partnering with Sabanto allows us to deliver advanced autonomy solutions, helping farmers improve efficiency while addressing labour and cost challenges.”

The introduction of autonomous retrofits into the Australian market is especially timely, with producers across the country facing increasing pressure from rising input costs, unpredictable labour availability, and extreme weather patterns. Sabanto’s systems help mitigate these challenges while positioning farms for long-term digital transformation.

As Sabanto builds its international dealer network, this expansion underscores a global shift in agriculturewhere smarter, smaller, and more adaptable technologies are paving the way for scalable, sustainable farming solutions.

African Farming
Henkesasswolf

  • HSW ECO MATIC® 6ml _ 10ml (for injection, oral and pour-on application)

Telematics enhances efficiency and uptime for seed research. (Image source: ALMACO)

ALMACO Telematics is a next-generation system delivering remote access to real-time machine data—boosting efficiency, performance, and uptime for seed research professionals

Available on both the R1 Single-Plot and R2 Twin-Plot Research Combines, it’s the only telematics offering integrated specifically for seed research, reinforcing ALMACO’s leadership in precision agtech.

With insights into numerous machine parameters, the platform provides deep visibility into settings, location, diagnostics, software, and performance. This empowers fleet managers and researchers to easily monitor and optimise machine use for peak operational output.

Maximising uptime through smart diagnostics

A key feature of ALMACO Telematics is its remote diagnostics and repair capability, protecting uptime and reducing disruptions. Over 30% of service issues can be resolved remotely, removing the need for a field technician and delivering cost-effective value.

Simplified software upgrades

The system enables remote software updates, ensuring machines stay up to date without site visits. This reduces downtime and maintenance costs while supporting continuous tech improvement.

Enhanced fleet oversight

From their desks, managers can track machine performance and advise operators to refine seed trial accuracy. Telematics interfaces can also be remotely customised to support the specific goals of different research operations, improving data precision and machine functionality.

A smart investment for research operations

By reducing field calls, improving uptime, and enhancing resale value, ALMACO Telematics offers a strong return on investment. With its real-time oversight and proactive maintenance tools, seed research professionals can operate with confidence and lower costs.

“The integration of ALMACO Telematics marks a significant step forward in precision seed research,” said Mat Titus, service director at ALMACO. “By offering real-time data access and remote diagnostics, we are enabling researchers to focus on what matters most—developing the next generation of seed innovations.”

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Crops

Nestlé continues to play a pivotal role in advancing Thailand’s coffee sector.(Image credit: Nestlé)

Agriculture

Nestlé (Thai) Ltd. has renewed its long-standing partnership with Thai coffee farmers by signing a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Thai Coffee Growers Association

The agreement, covering the 2025/2026 harvest season, affirms Nestlé’s commitment to purchasing Robusta coffee beans directly from local farmers while continuing to promote sustainable farming practices and improve livelihoods within the coffee-growing communities.

The signing ceremony was held in Chumphon Province, a key region for coffee production in Thailand, and was honoured by the presence of the provincial governor, reflecting the significance of the initiative to the local economy.

As part of the agreement, Nestlé will support farmers not only through bean purchases but also by sharing practical knowledge on Regenerative Agriculture. This approach focuses on improving soil health, conserving water, and promoting biodiversity, ultimately helping farmers build climate resilience and boost both yield and quality.

“For several decades, Nestlé has continuously supported our local coffee farmers. Additionally, Nestlé has consistently been the largest purchaser of local Robusta beans in Thailand. The signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) each year reaffirms that Nestlé will purchase Robusta coffee beans directly from Thai farmers. Moreover, we support farmers in adopting Regenerative Agriculture practices in their coffee plantations through knowledge-sharing programs and various training sessions. This not only helps improve coffee production in terms of both quantity and quality but also aids in restoring ecosystems and protecting soil and water resources, enabling farmers to cope with climate change,” said Salinla Seehaphan, Corporate Affairs Director at Nestlé (Thai) Ltd.

Thianchai Chookittiwiboon, Governor of Chumphon Province, praised the initiative, emphasising coffee’s economic importance to the region. He noted that direct support from companies like Nestlé aligns with the province’s goal to establish itself as a globally recognised “Robusta Metropolis.”

Echoing this, Prayoon Songprasert, Chairman of the Thai Coffee Growers Association, acknowledged Nestlé’s ongoing contributions. He highlighted the positive impact of high-yield plantlets developed by Nestlé and the company’s training initiatives, which have led to consistent quality and income growth for farmers.

With this renewed partnership, Nestlé continues to play a pivotal role in advancing Thailand’s coffee sector promoting sustainability, boosting farmer incomes, and securing the future of Robusta cultivation in the country.

Benefits of regenerative agriculture for small farms.

A game changer for phosphate production.

Livestock

The event brought together over 300 industry experts. (Image credit: Sigenergy)

Aquaculture

Sigenergy, a key player in renewable energy innovation, recently showcased its modular commercial and industrial (C&I) solar-storage system at Sigenergy Day APAC in Hainan

The event brought together over 300 industry experts, partners, clients, and media professionals to explore the evolving landscape of solar-storage technology. A particular highlight of the event was a tour of a new aquaculture project powered entirely by solar and storage technology—demonstrating a bold step forward in sustainable energy applications beyond traditional sectors.

The seawater fish farming project, located in Hainan, uses Sigenergy’s advanced C&I inverters and the SigenStack energy storage system to power its operations. With a setup integrating 6 MW of solar power and 5 MWh of storage capacity, the project shows how clean energy can be effectively used in the demanding environment of aquaculture. It is a significant case study for how renewable energy can reduce operational costs and support environmental goals in industries that depend on consistent and intensive energy use.

This fish farm, focused on cultivating the high-value Leopard Coral Grouper, requires stringent control over its operating environment. Maintaining stable water temperature, constant oxygen supply, and controlled lighting is essential to the survival of the fish. These needs drive high energy consumption, with the farm using around 43,200 kWh daily and more than 15 million kWh annually. Sigenergy’s system drastically cuts the farm’s reliance on the grid and offers a cost-effective, environmentally conscious energy solution.

The site posed several logistical and environmental challenges that traditional energy systems could not solve. However, Sigenergy’s modular design provided key advantages. Space was a major limitation, with narrow corridors between ponds making bulky container systems impractical. The compact, plug-and-play nature of Sigenergy’s solution allowed it to be easily installed without wasting valuable space.

Transport and installation were also simplified. As the site is located near water networks, heavy machinery access was impossible. Sigenergy’s lightweight units, which don’t require cranes, enabled the system to be fully set up in just four days. The sandy soil also posed structural concerns, but the modular design allowed even weight distribution, reducing foundation stress and ensuring safety.

Being just 300 metres from the sea, the site is exposed to salt-heavy air and humidity. Sigenergy’s equipment is built to last under such harsh conditions, with IP66 and C5-M protection ratings that provide high-level resistance to corrosion and ensure long-term performance.

This deployment not only delivers reliable and clean energy for the aquaculture industry but also stands as a scalable model for energy transformation in other complex, high-demand environments.

The future of marine resources.

Automation is increasingly essential to manage labour shortages, enhance precision, and meet hygiene and welfare standards.

Equipment

ScoutAI is capable of identifying issues before they become widespread, enabling timely interventions.

Equipment

CultiWise ScoutAI, an advanced autonomous crop monitoring system, has been shortlisted for the prestigious DLG Agrifuture Concept Winner Award

Developed by Czech agritech startup Skymaps, the system combines artificial intelligence with data from satellites, drones, sprayers, and field sensors to help farmers detect crop issues earlier and apply treatments more precisely.

Traditionally, crop scouting has been a manual and time-consuming task, with farmers walking fields to identify problems like pests, disease, or nutrient deficiencies. ScoutAI transforms this process by automating surveillance and decision-making. The system fuses data from multiple sources—satellite imagery, drone flights, smart sprayer cameras, and in-field sensors—into one integrated platform. This allows for faster, more accurate detection of crop stress and reduces dependency on isolated tools and manual monitoring.

ScoutAI is capable of identifying issues before they become widespread, enabling timely interventions. The precision and early detection mean inputs like fertilisers, pesticides, and water can be used more efficiently. Farmers using the system have reported savings of up to 50% on fertiliser and water, and over 60% on pesticide usage. In addition to cutting costs and environmental impact, ScoutAI also saves time and labour, offering farmers a constant digital overview of their fields.

A major strength of ScoutAI is its interoperability. Many existing agricultural tools—such as drones, sprayer logs, and weather apps—operate independently, often without the ability to integrate. In contrast, ScoutAI brings these tools together into a single intelligent system. It acts like a smart security network for crops, continuously monitoring fields and spotting anomalies, such as unexpected bare patches or weed outbreaks.

Once a potential issue is detected using daily satellite imagery, ScoutAI automatically deploys farm drones housed in smart docking stations around the field. These drones fly to the affected area, capturing close-up, high-resolution images. Onboard AI processes this data in real time. Simultaneously, cameras installed on the sprayer booms offer live insights as they move through the field, while in-ground sensors monitor microclimate conditions and pest activity.

All the collected data is analysed on the cloud-based CultiWise platform, which then provides farmers with clear, actionable recommendations. This includes prescription maps for precise, variable-rate treatments such as spot spraying. The entire process, from detection to diagnosis, takes just minutes and is displayed through a user-friendly dashboard.

By integrating and automating previously disconnected tools, ScoutAI is redefining how farmers monitor and manage their crops—making agriculture smarter, more sustainable, and more efficient.

Agrico Web Control offers a cutting-edge solution for farmers seeking efficiency.

Roads and access points must be wide and clear enough for emergency vehicles.(Image credit: Husqvarna)

Technology

Technologies can improve farming efficiency and strengthen the supply chain.

Infrastructure

Nezar Patria, Deputy Minister of communication and digital affairs, has stressed the vital role of artificial intelligence (AI) and data in transforming Indonesia’s agricultural sector.

He highlighted that strong digital infrastructure is the foundation for achieving sustainable agriculture across the country.

“To really take advantage of AI power and data, a strong digital infrastructure is very important. This includes evenly distributed broadband access and an inclusive digital platform for farmers and agri-food business actors,” Nezar said during an official broadcast.

He emphasised that digital transformation in agriculture is not about following global trends, but a strategic move to address national food security challenges. Technologies such as smart sensors, drones, automation, and predictive analytics can significantly improve farming efficiency, reduce waste, and strengthen the supply chain from production to distribution.

“AI and data can revolutionize our entire agri-food ecosystem,” he added.

To support this transformation, the ministry of communication and digital affairs (Komdigi) is speeding up the expansion of digital infrastructure in rural areas. The ministry is also promoting digital literacy and working closely with universities like Gadjah Mada University (UGM) to advance research, training, and the development of technology-based solutions for agriculture.

Nezar called on academics, farmers, and all stakeholders to join forces in strengthening national food sovereignty. “AI and data are bridges to Indonesia’s more productive, inclusive, and sustainable agricultural future,” he concluded.

Enhance Agricultural Resilience with Solar Energy.

These technologies also make farming more accessible for younger generations.

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