The New Agriculturist

Cocoa video - Ghana's television extension

Wed, 06 May 2009 16:58:12 GMT

In Ghana, a team of farmers has been given technical training in video production, and have made eight short training films on different aspects of cocoa farming. Through video viewing clubs, the 'best practice' messages are now reaching hundreds of cocoa growers. 06/05/09

Three bags full - the black sheep of Deccan

Wed, 06 May 2009 16:57:05 GMT

Well-adapted to life in the semi-arid Deccan Plateau, the Deccani sheep provide meat, manure and thick black wool. While attempts to produce softer and finer wool by crossbreeding have proved unsuccessful, by focusing on the traditional skills of local weavers a 'recession-proof' market has been created. 06/05/09

News brief

Wed, 06 May 2009 16:56:22 GMT

Food aid under threat from pirates as WFP says food production must double; West Africa likely to experience 'megadrought'; joint effort to tackle wheat rust threat; water woes in Iraq and Yemen threaten agriculture; FAO reveal benefits of bioenergy for the rural poor, and much more. 06/05/09

Developments

Wed, 06 May 2009 10:46:35 GMT

In this edition we highlight developments on building capacity for change in Peru, using vetiver in Ethiopia, climate change in West Africa and a new extension tool using video in Ghana. 06/05/09

Book reviews

Wed, 06 May 2009 10:43:55 GMT

Reviews of some of the latest publications related to agriculture and rural development. The lead book this edition is Taras Grescoe's Bottomfeeder - how to eat sustainably in a world of vanishing seafood. 06/05/09

Going wild for silk in Zimbabwe

Wed, 06 May 2009 10:41:20 GMT

Communities in southern Zimbabwe have traditionally collected wild silk cocoons to prevent livestock ingesting them. However, after the value of cocoons was revealed, rural communities have been using this natural resource to produce wild silk. 06/05/09

Sustainable sisal in Tanzania

Wed, 06 May 2009 10:26:39 GMT

A boom in the global demand for sisal fibre has revitalised the industry in Tanzania. While smallholders are benefitting from planting the drought-resistant crop alongside their maize and beans, one sisal processing company has developed some innovative uses for the sisal biomass. 06/05/09

Kyrgyzstan - cashing in on cashmere

Wed, 06 May 2009 10:20:59 GMT

Kyrgyz pastoralists are learning that their local cashmere goats are more valuable than the Russian Don and Angora crossbred goats introduced in previous decades to Soviet collective farms. Chinese buyers - interested in all grades of cashmere - offer no price differential for quality or colour, providing no incentive for Kyrgyz farmers to add value by sorting. However, following recommendations from a research and consultancy firm with experience in pastoral livestock production and marketing, farmers are realising they can attract the higher prices paid by European companies in search of the best quality cashmere. 06/05/09

Building capacity for change in Peru's alpaca sector

Wed, 06 May 2009 10:14:30 GMT

At the turn of the millennium, worldwide demand for higher quality fibre was threatening the livelihoods of the alpaqueros, the traditional alpaca herders of the Altiplano. But within the last few years, a process of policy and institutional change has seen the development of a national camelid strategy, which provides a vision for further development of the sector, not only in Peru but across the region. 06/05/09

Natural fibres

Wed, 06 May 2009 10:08:48 GMT

Covering crop (sisal, coir, cotton) and animal fibres (cashmere, alpaca, wool and silk), technologies and policies, in this edition we focus on the various ways in which rural producers and processors are overcoming the challenges involved in marketing their natural fibres. 06/05/09

In this issue...

Wed, 06 May 2009 10:02:43 GMT

Coping with change is a theme that weaves through this edition of New Agriculturist. Whether it is farmers coping with changes in climate or markets, or scientists grappling with the challenges for research, we report on some of the current developments in global agriculture. 06/05/09

Predicting and coping with climate change in Africa

Wed, 06 May 2009 09:17:34 GMT

By analysing problems and extrapolating solutions from small areas to large, scientists in Africa are able to recommend new farming practices that can help to protect agricultural production in the face of climate change. 06/05/09

Awash with cotton

Tue, 05 May 2009 15:39:18 GMT

Having lost 90 per cent of their livestock to drought, the Mahesara clan of Ethiopia's Afar region began growing cotton for export. In 2008 they exported over 100 tonnes of cotton to Europe, earning US$200,000. Profits have been reinvested in the community, covering education, health and veterinary care. 05/05/09

Embracing change within the CGIAR

Tue, 05 May 2009 14:33:30 GMT

Monty Jones of the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa gives his viewpoint on the ongoing changes occurring in the international agricultural research system of the CGIAR and why he feels they are necessary. 05/05/09

Innovation systems: a testing process

Tue, 05 May 2009 13:09:51 GMT

A pilot project in India and Nigeria is learning some interesting lessons from five very different sites about building capacity for change around the issue of fodder scarcity. 05/05/09

A-maize-ing progress in Ethiopia

Fri, 01 May 2009 17:03:24 GMT

Demand for improved maize varieties has outstripped supply as Ethiopian highland farmers experience increasing yields. The new varieties have been introduced by CIMMYT in partnership with the Ethiopian Institute for Agricultural Research. 01/05/09

Agricultural science - a promising future?

Fri, 01 May 2009 15:28:30 GMT

Is agricultural science a wise career move for Africa's school and college leavers? Or will they face a struggle to access equipment and funding, and find promotion opportunities blocked by older scientists? Read the opinions of some of West Africa's brightest young agricultural scientists and the outspoken director general of IITA, Peter Hartmann. 01/05/09

Coir - a fibre for the future?

Fri, 01 May 2009 11:02:31 GMT

In order to take maximum advantage of the global demand for coir fibre, the entire value chain in Sri Lanka has united under the Coir Council International. Through cooperation they are working to improve the competitiveness of the industry and enhance the livelihoods of everyone involved. 01/05/09

Mongolia

Fri, 01 May 2009 11:02:09 GMT

With its harsh climate and sparsely populated landscape, nomadic pastoralism is one of Mongolia's key economic activities. Despite the turbulent transition to a market economy and numerous natural disasters, steps are being taken to reduce the vulnerability of livestock keepers. 01/05/09

Voting for vetiver in Ethiopia

Fri, 01 May 2009 10:59:33 GMT

Research has demonstrated that use of vetiver hedges significantly reduces rainfall runoff, even on bare land, and that soil loss is also dramatically reduced. With improved soil moisture retention and soil fertility preservation, significant crop yield increases have been recorded - between 30-50 per cent - when Ethiopian farmers make use of vetiver hedgerows. Ethiopian farmers also benefit from using vetiver as mulch, improving soil organic matter and nutrient recycling. 01/05/09

Saving African soils: grounds for hope?

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:19:09 GMT

Soil scientists in Africa and beyond are now convinced that investments focusing on depleted soils are vital to achieve a turn-around in agricultural productivity. We ask experts at the recent launch in Nairobi of a new digital map of Africa's depleted soils, for their opinions on how African soils can be saved. 29/04/09

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Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:15:25 GMT

Download the larger sections (Focus on, developments, news brief and book reviews) from this edition of the New Agriculturist as Rich Text Format (rtf) documents. 15/04/09

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:15:25 GMT

Full listing of the contents of this edition of the New Agriculturist. 15/04/09

Book reviews

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 17:22:14 GMT

Reviews of some of the latest publications related to agriculture and rural development. The lead book this edition is Vandana Shiva's Soil not oil. 16/03/09

Less water, fewer plants, more rice - the SRI revolution

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 11:01:16 GMT

Thanks to the efforts of Malian rice farmers, a new wave of rice technology has begun to ripple across the region. It has the potential to more than double yields, while raising the productivity of land, water, labour and capital. The System of Rice Intensification (SRI), pioneered in Madagascar in the early 1980s is being tested and adopted by Malian farmers. Beyond Mali, the system has already been validated in 34 other countries, including by the rice research institutes of China, India and Indonesia, which together produce 60 per cent of the world's rice. 06/03/09

A global partnership to end hunger

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 10:27:55 GMT

Extreme poverty and vulnerability are getting worse and the mismatch between food demand and supply is widening at a frightening rate. Recognising that swift and decisive international action must be taken, the Global Partnership for Agriculture and Food Security was recently established to provide a comprehensive and coordinated response to hunger in today's world. 06/03/09

Cotton expert Karim Hussein

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 10:03:40 GMT

Cotton expert Karim Hussein shares his thoughts on the International Year of Natural Fibres and highlights issues that will be familiar to natural fibre producers around the world. 06/03/09

The appeal of peel

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 09:19:32 GMT

Rubbish and food waste dumped on the roadside is not only a health hazard for those living nearby, but also a wasted resource. Vegetable peel, fruit skins and other waste can be turned into animal feed, or even a source of fuel. 06/03/09

Honduras

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 12:18:02 GMT

Fluctuating commodity prices, hurricanes and crop diseases all combine to make returns from farming unpredictable in Honduras. Despite being one of the original 'banana republics', the survival of the banana industry is under threat due to the danger of banana diseases but also competition from Africa. 05/03/09

Africa's slow food revolution

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 12:16:55 GMT

Across Africa the value of traditional foods is being rediscovered and trade in organically-grown traditional vegetables and fruits is burgeoning. 'Slow food' campaigners are raising public awareness of the social impact of food traditions and the importance of local consumption in order to support traditional food production. 05/03/09

A call to action for animal genetic resources

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 12:14:51 GMT

Worldwide, production of meat, milk and eggs is increasingly dominated by a small number of international breeds and, as a result, almost every month, another livestock breed becomes extinct. With this increasing bias towards exotic breeds and industrialised livestock keeping, the value of indigenous breeds is often overlooked or ignored. In September 2007, Global Plan of Action for Animal Genetic Resources was adopted but greater support - both financially and politically - is required if breeds at risk are to be brought back from the brink of extinction. 05/03/09

In this issue...

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 12:03:10 GMT

Finally, it seems, there is some good news. Even while the financial crisis continues to topple banks around the world and many developed countries are now officially in recession, a ray of light has appeared: rice production is expected to reach record highs this year. In this edition of New Agriculturist, we report on some of the opportunities and threats to rural agriculture and sustainable development around the world. 05/03/09

Healthy, wealthy and wise - medicinal plants in DRC

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 10:34:46 GMT

A public-private partnership is helping DRC establish a fledgling medicinal plants industry, producing to international standards. As well as having the potential to lift rural communities out of poverty, could DRC soon become a player in the burgeoning world health food market? 05/03/09

Animal genetic resources

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 10:31:12 GMT

To meet the rising demand for livestock products, the world now relies on a very narrow range of high-output breeds, which has resulted in the dramatic decline of indigenous breeds in many regions.Traditional livestock keepers have been the stewards of much of the world's animal diversity. But effective management of animal genetic diversity is a difficult challenge for developing countries that lack essential resources. Consequently, many breeds with unique characteristics, such as disease resistance or tolerance to climatic extremes, are at risk from extinction. In this edition of New Agriculturist, we focus on the benefits and challenges involved in the sustainable use of livestock genetic diversity. 05/03/09

News brief

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 17:18:51 GMT

China tries to ease its water crisis; caterpillars devastate crops in Liberia; Gaza's farms count the cost of conflict; GM maize contamination in Mexico; scientists develop bird-flu antibodies; a great season for rice producers; seed producers in sub-Saharan Africa receive a financial boost, and much more. 04/03/09

Recognising livestock keepers' rights

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 16:21:00 GMT

From a Maasai community in northern Tanzania, Eliamani Laltaika grew up with his people's freedom and activities restricted; thus a passion was born to stand-up for the rights of pastoralists. In 2007, he was one of five lawyers providing advice for drawing up an international Declaration on Livestock Keepers' Rights in an effort to achieve formal recognition for livestock keepers around the world as creators and custodians of animal genetic resources. 04/03/09

No longer in a pickle in Madagascar

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 16:19:26 GMT

A collapse of wild sea cucumber stocks has had a severe impact of incomes and food security in coastal areas of Madagascar. But recent project to introduce sea cucumber farming is showing early signs of success. 04/03/09

Saving the 'night queen' of Chilika

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 14:04:15 GMT

The unique Chilika buffalo is the only breed of buffalo able to feed on the saline vegetation of Chilika Lake, in eastern India. Recent attempts to increase their milk productivity by crossbreeding has put their unique feeding habits at risk, threatening the livelihoods of the villagers and the ecosystem of the lake. 04/03/09

Fighting for survival in Central Asia

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 10:42:13 GMT

The collapse of the Soviet Union had far-reaching implications for livestock production in Central Asia. Many well-adapted breeds were lost as the region tumbled into a long period of turmoil. Now, work needs to be done to protect the breeds that remain. 04/03/09

On the hoof in Patagonia

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 17:32:10 GMT

The Neuquén Criollo goats of Argentinean Patagonia have thrived in a harsh environment for centuries. But the transhumant system that has made them so resilient is under threat and the 'breed' has previoulsy been weakened by ill-advised breeding programmes for milk and fibre. A regional initiative to market kid meat as 'gourmet' could yet save the goats - and the farmers who rely on them. 03/03/09

Life on the front line in the southwest Pacific

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 17:07:22 GMT

The islanders of the southwest Pacific are among the lowest carbon-emitters in the world, but they are among the first to be affected by climate change. With many geographically isolated islands and atolls, the region contains some uniquely well-adapted livestock breeds - but these are now under threat. Documenting these breeds and establishing programmes to conserve them promises to be an expensive and complicated race against the clock. 03/03/09

Bahati Tweve: The honest 'middleman' brokering deals

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 10:27:28 GMT

The First Mile Project in rural Tanzania has promoted the use of 'spies', mobile phones and the internet to help farmers gain better access to markets. 03/03/09

Developments

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 11:12:05 GMT

02/03/09

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Mon, 02 Mar 2009 11:09:00 GMT

Download the larger sections (Focus on, developments, news brief and book reviews) from this edition of the New Agriculturist as Rich Text Format (rtf) documents. 02/03/09

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 11:09:00 GMT

Full listing of the contents of this edition of the New Agriculturist. 02/03/09

African agriculture - prime time to invest?

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 11:38:56 GMT

As the world economy teeters on the edge of a full-blown recession, what will this mean for agriculture in Africa in 2009? We ask the experts at the EMRC Africa Finance and Investment Forum, for their opinions. 26/01/09

News brief

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:14:09 GMT

Yemen floods linked to reclamation crops; wheat harvests are up - but there is trouble looming; the state of world phosphorus reserves; the United Nations unveils the International Year of Natural Fibres 2009; land grabs in Africa; Central Asian fisheries in crisis, and much more. 09/01/09

Book reviews

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:01:17 GMT

Reviews of some of the latest publications related to agriculture and rural development. The lead review this edition is The trouble with aid by Jonathan Glennie. 09/01/09

Desert dessert - camel milk ice cream

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 09:55:51 GMT

Camel herders in the Thar desert of northern India have launched a new camel-based business producing camel milk ice cream. 09/01/09

In this issue...

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 09:19:27 GMT

Even the most dogmatic optimists will have had their faith tested in 2008, following the crises in food, fuel, fertiliser and finance. The possible impact on developing countries of widespread recession in the West remains to be seen and the ripples will certainly be felt over the months and years ahead. But in this New Year edition of New Agriculturist, we provide a few examples of how to embrace the challenges facing agricultural development worldwide in 2009. 09/01/09

Developments

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 16:12:25 GMT

This editions Developments include: Baobab - trading the once-forbidden fruit, Keeping the genes: recognition of local livestock breeds, Honduras - a fair exchange, Ethiopia and the climate - change or chance it. 08/01/09

Democratic Republic of Congo

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 13:05:42 GMT

This vast, fertile, mineral-rich land has tremendous potential for agricultural growth, but this is dwarfed by many development challenges. Having only recently emerged from a brutal civil war, the recent resurgence of violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is nothing short of a disaster. 08/01/09

Boitshepo Bibi Giyose, NEPAD

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 09:36:01 GMT

Boitshepo Bibi Giyose, Food and Nutrition Security Advisor for NEPAD, condemns the hypocrisy that has allowed hunger to persist, despite numerous conferences, agreements and pledges. Addressing hunger not only empowers individuals, but is the basis for economic development. 08/01/09

African banana - on an upward curve

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 12:41:59 GMT

Reviewing progress in African banana research and development, we explore how farmers can better exploit the potential of banana and gain a more significant slice of the international market. 07/01/09

In this issue...

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:40:07 GMT

Potato is featured as an important livelihood crop in this edition of New Agriculturist. Providing an overview of the topics covered and reviewed in this issue, we bring you highlights of this edition. 06/01/09

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Fri, 19 Dec 2008 13:00:33 GMT

Download the larger sections (Focus on, developments, news brief and book reviews) from this edition of the New Agriculturist as Rich Text Format (rtf) documents. 19/12/08

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 13:00:33 GMT

Full listing of the contents of this edition of the New Agriculturist. 19/12/08

African bananas - unlocking the potential

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 15:05:33 GMT

In Africa, starchy varieties of banana and plantain (Musa) are a key staple food crop, providing food security, nutrition and income for millions of smallholder farmers. Marketing, however, is a serious constraint. At a recent conference held in Mombasa, Kenya, delegates gathered to discuss ways in which banana research may be strengthened and banana production transformed across the continent. 17/11/08

Sheila Sisulu, World Food Programme

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 15:06:55 GMT

Sheila Sisulu, deputy executive director of the World Food Programme (WFP), is concerned that the global crises in food, fuel and finance are already limiting the supply of emergency food relief. However, she believes the WFP has made some major steps forward in getting to the root of the hunger problem, including the Purchasing for Progress initiative which supports smallscale farmers, and some innovative approaches to school feeding. 13/11/08

In this issue...

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 11:41:00 GMT

FAO has stated that, with rising food and fuel prices, over 75 million people have fallen below the hunger threshold this year. It is not yet clear how much the current financial crisis will further impact on the poor. But there are concerns that despite the rapid assistance to ailing banks, developing countries will fail to be supported in the same way and that pledges of aid from donor countries will not be honoured. 13/11/08

Developments

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 11:40:37 GMT

Fighting hunger in a time of crisis, Making a splash: milk for the masses in Haiti, Human fertiliser - closing the nutrient loop, Cultivation and conservation in conflict 13/11/08

Book reviews

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 11:36:37 GMT

Reviews of some of the latest publications related to agriculture and rural development. The lead book in this edition is 'Eat Your Heart Out' by investigative journalist Felicity Lawrence. 13/11/08

Book reviews

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 16:43:30 GMT

Reviews of some of the latest publications related to agriculture and rural development. The lead book in this edition is A Splendid exchange by William Bernstein. 07/11/08

Ancient traditions, modern relevance

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 11:18:27 GMT

This edition's picture feature gives an insight into the lives of Maasai pastoralists in southern Kenya, who are keeping their ancient traditions alive, while embracing the modern age. 06/11/08

Solomon Islands

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 11:11:47 GMT

The South Pacific archipelago is still reeling from devastating ethnic violence that resulted in the destruction of vital agricultural infrastructure. While subsistence farming is still the mainstay of most families in the country, numerous threats to their livelihoods are emerging. 06/11/08

Common resources

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 11:05:21 GMT

Three-quarters of the world's poor depend on their immediate surroundings in order to survive, but many of these often common resources are at risk. We look at some of the threats, benefits, constraints and opportunities faced by communities worldwide. 06/11/08

Book reviews

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 09:36:48 GMT

Reviews of some of the latest publications related to agriculture and rural development. The lead review this month is 'The future control of food'. 06/11/08

Ethiopia

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 09:32:22 GMT

While Ethiopia may be synonymous with famine and drought, recent investment by President Zenawi's government has encouraged market-oriented agriculture and the country has seen an improvement in GDP and exports. But with exports - including coffee, livestock and flowers - to the value of US$1 billion against imports of up to US$5 billion, reducing this gap in a competitive international market is a tall order. 06/11/08

News brief

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 09:29:18 GMT

The impact on agriculture of the earthquake in China, growing tension over a new biofuel site in Kenya, drought in Ethiopia and an update on the plight of GM potato trials in the UK. 06/11/08

News brief

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 14:43:19 GMT

A food crisis looms in Zimbabwe, contaminated animal feed disrupts poultry sales in China, DFID pledges millions to tackle climate change in Bangladesh, rats plague farmers in northeast Burma, beneficial insects in Pakistan and much more. 05/11/08

Download

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 11:33:40 GMT

Download the larger sections (Focus on, developments, news brief and book reviews) from this edition of the New Agriculturist as Rich Text Format (rtf) documents. 27/10/08

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 11:33:40 GMT

Full listing of the contents of this edition of the New Agriculturist. 27/10/08

Book reviews

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 09:12:42 GMT

Reviews of some of the latest publications related to agriculture and rural development. The lead book, 'Starved for science' by Robert Paarlberg, adds to the growing body of work on the biotechnology debate. It is a hard-hitting indictment of the international community and its scepticism of scientific solutions to hunger. 01/10/08

Babagana Ahmadu of the African Union Commission

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 10:12:16 GMT

Babagana Ahmadu of the African Union Commission shares his thoughts on how Africa's smallscale livestock producers can capitalise on the global food price hikes and ways to improve trade and animal health on the continent. 10/09/08

Coming clean on wastewater irrigation

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 09:25:35 GMT

Wastewater is an invaluable asset for urban and peri-urban agriculture, but also carries health risks for farmers and consumers. At World Water Week 2008, experts in water management, health and agriculture offered their views on the importance of wastewater and ways of preventing disease transmission. 05/09/08

Planting for profit in Afghanistan

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:07:35 GMT

After decades of conflict, agriculture in Afghanistan is improving year-on-year. A long-term wheat improvement and seed production programme is already helping farmers reap rewards. 04/09/08

News brief

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:13:11 GMT

The introduction of African baobab fruit in the EU, drought in Australia and the Horn of Africa, the UN's fear over fertiliser prices, the risk of African Swine Fever spreading beyond the Caucasus, and India's ambitious scheme to waive small farm debts. 04/09/08

Senegal

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 15:57:53 GMT

Agriculture in Senegal has been traditionally dominated by the production of groundnuts. Faced with rising world food prices, environmental degradation, and declining natural resources, the race is on to become food self-sufficient. 03/09/08

Potato

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 15:51:35 GMT

Potato has provided food security for millions of people over thousands of years. We look at the continuing potential of this much-loved staple and the challenges ahead. 03/09/08

Bakary Kante of UNEP

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 12:57:01 GMT

Bakary Kante, director of the Division of Environmental Law and Conventions of the UNEP, gives his viewpoint on common resources, which as the backbone of sustainability need to be protected and shared at a global level for the benefit of all citizens. 03/09/08

Developments

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 09:50:15 GMT

02/09/08

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Thu, 28 Aug 2008 10:32:09 GMT

Download the larger sections (Focus on, developments, news brief and book reviews) from this edition of the New Agriculturist as Rich Text Format (rtf) documents. 28/08/08

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 10:32:09 GMT

Full listing of the contents of this edition of the New Agriculturist. 28/08/08

Pushing for potatoes

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 10:56:21 GMT

With prices for wheat, rice and maize now at record levels, the humble potato continues to offer a haven of food security for some of the poorest regions of the world. At a recent conference in Peru, we asked the experts for their views on this meek but much-loved staple 09/07/08

Vietnam

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:28:41 GMT

Agriculture has boomed in Vietnam in the past two decades, warding off imminent famine and turning the country into one of the most important exporters of farm produce in the world. But the future of agriculture may not be so rosy, given the range of growing manmade and natural threats to production. 03/07/08

In this issue...

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:20:48 GMT

Bumper harvests are predicted for 2008 but high food prices and the impact on the poor are still a concern. In this edition, we take a look at a selection of approaches for raising agricultural productivity. 03/07/08

Ernest Abloh of Blue Skies Holdings

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:14:59 GMT

Chief agronomist Ernest Abloh of Blue Skies Holdings gives his personal viewpoint on how to run a successful business, which relies on air freight while upholding ethical principles and contributing to long-term development. 03/07/08

Competing on a world stage

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 10:46:25 GMT

An insight into the plants and producers who were competing at Chelsea 2008, the world's most influential flower show, under the theme of growing in a changing climate. 03/07/08

A green revolution for Africa

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 17:21:29 GMT

Achieving an African green revolution will be harder and more complex than the green revolution in Asia and a one-size-fits-all approach will not work. In this edition we review a selection of approaches with a potential for raising agricultural productivity in Africa. 30/06/08

Developments

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 11:35:42 GMT

willow 23/06/08

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Fri, 30 May 2008 12:17:29 GMT

Download the larger sections (Focus on, developments, news brief and book reviews) from this edition of the New Agriculturist as Rich Text Format (rtf) documents. 30/05/08

Fri, 30 May 2008 12:17:29 GMT

Full listing of the contents of this edition of the New Agriculturist. 30/05/08

Fibre of the gods - alpaca keeping in Peru

Tue, 20 May 2008 11:27:48 GMT

We visit the high Andes of Peru to see how the centuries-old tradition of alpaca keeping has survived - and how it is changing to suit modern times. 20/05/08

Livestock and livelihoods in Burkina Faso

Tue, 20 May 2008 11:24:52 GMT

An insight into how reforms of trade and animal health regulations are helping livestock keepers, processors and the general public in Burkina Faso. 20/05/08

Making more of undervalued crops

Thu, 15 May 2008 15:59:59 GMT

Underutilised crops can provide a valuable source of income and nutrition for those living in marginal areas. They can even help to provide food security in the face of climate change. So why aren't more of them grown? We ask the experts about why these plants have become neglected and what can be done to raise their profile. 15/05/08

Book reviews

Fri, 09 May 2008 12:56:24 GMT

Reviews of some of the latest publications related to agriculture and rural development. The lead book in this issue is 'Common Wealth' by Jeffrey Sachs. 09/05/08

In this issue...

Fri, 09 May 2008 12:47:11 GMT

As the world continues to be gripped by rising food prices, in this edition of New Agriculturist, we report on efforts to bring underutilised crops into production. 09/05/08

News brief

Fri, 09 May 2008 12:35:49 GMT

Myanmar's looming humanitarian crisis in the wake of Cyclone Nargis, the ongoing world food price rises, the UK government's pledge to development research and fears of a water crisis in the Middle East and North Africa all feature in this edition's News. 09/05/08

Neglected species

Fri, 09 May 2008 10:44:52 GMT

Around the world there are over 7,000 plant species that are cultivated or harvested from the wild for food. But increasingly, global food security has become dependent on a shrinking basket of a select number of crops. Only 150 crops are grown commercially and traded globally, and three main staples, rice, wheat and maize provide over 50 per cent of all the protein and calories consumed worldwide. With food prices for these three commodities having recently doubled or even tripled, it is timely to re-focus on the neglected or underutilised crops that can provide food security and income generation, particularly for the poor. 09/05/08

Iran

Thu, 08 May 2008 17:33:08 GMT

Agriculture in Iran has a long history, but problems of water scarcity, soil salinity, crop diseases and a lack of investment mean farmers face myriad challenges in the years ahead. 08/05/08

In this issue...

Thu, 08 May 2008 12:34:37 GMT

With global food reserves are at their lowest level for 30 years, food price hikes look set to continue. In this edition of New Agriculturist we report on recent efforts to bring degraded agricultural land back into production. 08/05/08

Developments

Wed, 07 May 2008 09:40:52 GMT

This editions developments articles are: Zimbabwean agriculture on its knees, Farming revolution needed to feed the world's hungry, Searching for a new approach: pro-poor livestock and institutional change, Turning over a new leaf in La Amistad Park, and Uncovering Africa's agribusiness potential 07/05/08

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Mon, 28 Apr 2008 11:11:47 GMT

Download the larger sections (Focus on, developments, news brief and book reviews) from this edition of the New Agriculturist as Rich Text Format (rtf) documents. 28/04/08

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 11:11:47 GMT

Full listing of the contents of this edition of the New Agriculturist. 28/04/08

Rehabilitating degraded land

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 14:21:45 GMT

Deforestation, overgrazing, continuous farming and poor irrigation practices have affected almost 200 billion hectares of agricultural land worldwide, threatening the livelihoods of over one billion people. We take an in-depth look at ways to successfully rehabilitate degraded land. 12/03/08

News brief

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 14:53:48 GMT

A summary of recent news including the opening of the Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway, an update on the floods in southern Africa, the dawn of a 'second generation' of biofuels and a rise in deforestation in the Amazon 11/03/08

Developments

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 16:35:41 GMT

This editions developments articles are: Kenyan horticulture: weathering the political storm? Communicating the benefits of conservation energy in Uganda; A Helping hand - tissue culture blooms in Kenya; and Aerobic rice - guarding against cereal killers 10/03/08

Benin

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 16:19:17 GMT

Rich in natural resources, Benin has been slow to unlock its agricultural potential. With over half of Beninese engaged in subsistence farming, what lies ahead for one of West Africa's strongest democracies? 10/03/08

Mahlati Moyo of the Mongu District Farmers' Association, Zambia

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 14:37:17 GMT

From the Mongu District Farmers Association in the Western Province of Zambia, Mahlati Moyo shares his views on getting the voices of smallscale farmers heard. As Chairman of the Association, he feels strongly that farmers should be consulted every step of the way when it comes to changing or making agricultural policy - and the media should be used as a lobbying tool. 10/03/08

Booming biofuels - who will benefit?

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 14:34:45 GMT

In developing countries, although biofuel production could provide some benefits for the agricultural sector, the impact on poverty and food security is less clear. In this edition of Points of view, we provide a variety of opinions from academics, researchers and scientists - several of whom comment on the rise of one particular fuel crop, jatropha. 10/03/08

Matap Embaku on coffee growers in Papua New Guinea

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 12:42:31 GMT

Matap Embaku gives his perspective on the coffee growers of Papua New Guinea. As Chairman of Mainland Holdings he represents his own business group in the Morobe Province of Papua New Guinea. Mainland Holdings Ltd. is owned by rural co-operatives consisting mainly of coffee growers. 06/03/08

News brief

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 12:38:19 GMT

A range of brief news items including developments in biofuels, desertification, drought in southern Africa, livestock disease, including the spread of African Swine Fever and Avian Flu, the launch of a new DFID research into use programme and consultation process, and the appointment of Kofi Annan to chair the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA). 06/03/08

Non Timber Forest Products

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 12:31:52 GMT

Timber extraction, clearance of forests and over-harvesting of non-timber forest products has resulted in a loss of biodiversity and environmental degradation in many forested regions. And yet, in conjunction with the promotion of sustainable forest management policies and the right institutional support, forest communities in affected areas are learning to maximise their use of forest resources. 06/03/08

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Mon, 03 Mar 2008 14:25:10 GMT

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Mon, 03 Mar 2008 14:25:10 GMT

Full listing of the contents of this edition of the New Agriculturist. 03/03/08

Book reviews

Mon, 21 Jan 2008 15:12:46 GMT

Reviews of some of the latest publications related to agriculture and rural development. The lead review this month is the documentary DVD 'Black Gold', revealing the impact of consumers choices on the coffee industry.

21/01/08

Book reviews

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 09:32:52 GMT

Reviews of some of the latest publications, books and journals related to agriculture and rural development. The lead book this month is "Biofuels for transport" by the Worldwatch Institute. 16/01/08

From the ground up: regenerating land and livelihoods in Rajasthan, India

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:07:45 GMT

Years of poor land management have taken their toll on the soils of Rajasthan. But new joint management plans between communities and the state are improving lands and livelihoods in the northern state.

15/01/08

Livestock feed and fodder systems

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:05:34 GMT

Access to quality fodder remains an important constraint for livestock producers. In this edition, we look at some of the technologies and approaches being developed to address fodder scarcity and improve nutritional quality of fodder in different regions.

15/01/08

Agricultural research and development - which way now?

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:04:57 GMT

Farmers and farming systems are changing and there is an urgent need for changes in approach if more effective agricultural development is to be achieved. But how best to go about it?

15/01/08

In this issue...

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 16:34:16 GMT

11/01/08

Kazakhstan

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 15:40:43 GMT

Although Kazakhstan is enjoying an economic boom fuelled by its reserves of oil and natural gas, agriculture has failed to rebound after the fall of communism. 11/01/08

Jim Godfrey: developing a taste for potatoes

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 15:36:19 GMT

Jim Godfrey of the CGIAR and International Potato Centre shares his passion for potatoes and his hopes for 2008, designated the International Year of the Potato 11/01/08

News brief

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 12:55:34 GMT

A summary of recent news events including the outcomes of the Bali Climate Change conference, locust swarms in Kenya, ongoing problems of drought in China, biofuels in Mexicon, avian flu in Saudia Arabia, and a "cool" new innovation from India - the "zero-energy" fridge. 11/01/08

In this issue...

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 14:51:06 GMT

Poverty reduction is closely linked to agricultural production. In this edition of New Agriculturist we look at ways in which agriculture has helped rehabilitate formerly war-torn countries, as well as the importance of good farming practices in combatting HIV/AIDS, and other projects to improve the livelihoods of rural farmers in developing countries. In This Issue provides an overview of the current edition. 10/01/08

Developments

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 09:27:29 GMT

08/01/08

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Wed, 19 Dec 2007 13:04:37 GMT

Download the larger sections (Focus on, developments, news brief and book reviews) from this edition of the New Agriculturist as Rich Text Format (rtf) documents. 19/12/07

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 13:04:37 GMT

Full listing of the contents of this edition of the New Agriculturist. 19/12/07

News brief

Thu, 22 Nov 2007 13:58:36 GMT

news 22/11/07

Agriculture and HIV/AIDS

Thu, 22 Nov 2007 13:54:51 GMT

In the global fight against HIV/AIDS, good agricultural practice can lead to better soils, higher quality food and better nutrition, which in turn can contribute to a healthier immune system. In advance of World AIDS Day in December, New Agriculturist asked experts about the important interface between agriculture and HIV/AIDS. 22/11/07

Agriculture after conflict

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 12:31:41 GMT

The legacy of war continues long after opposing factions have laid down their arms. Devastated infrastructure, displaced communities and the often volatile post-war security situation, are just some of the relics of conflict. The aftermath of war is a reality faced by millions of rural poor around the world, and re-establishing agricultural production, for both subsistence and trade, is an essential part of the rehabilitation process. In this edition of New Agriculturist - from the landmines still thwarting development in Cambodia, to the efforts to kick-start Angloa's coffee industry - we look at some of the ways in which formerly war-torn countries have emerged from the shadows of conflict and embarked upon the rocky road to recovery. 07/11/07

Megan Rowling, journalist for Reuters AlertNet.

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 16:50:11 GMT

Journalist Megan Rowling reflects that the media's role in relaying information about environmental crises from scientists to the general public is vital. But for journalists, particularly in developing countries, this can be a major challenge. More help is needed to communicate the realities behind the headlines. 06/11/07

A shepherd's life in Kyrgyzstan

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 14:49:36 GMT

Landlocked Kyrgyzstan, Central Asia, is one of the most mountainous countries in the world and agriculture is vital to its economy. In this edition's picture gallery, we take a glimpse at the lives of smallscale farmers and the age-old traditions they follow.

06/11/07

Brazil

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 09:49:13 GMT

Brazil is an agricultural superpower and world leader in the production of coffee, sugarcane, cassava, bananas and sisal. But despite its wealth of natural resources, extreme poverty and rural hardship are endemic. 06/11/07

Book reviews

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 10:35:11 GMT

Reviews of some of the latest publications, books and journals related to tropical agriculture and rural development. The lead book this month is "The Earth Only Endures" by Jules Pretty. 16/10/07

Developments

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 14:18:26 GMT

12/10/07

Download

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 14:16:22 GMT

Download the larger sections (Focus on, developments, news brief and book reviews) from this edition of the New Agriculturist as Rich Text Format (rtf) documents. 12/10/07

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 14:16:22 GMT

Full listing of the contents of this edition of the New Agriculturist. 12/10/07

Making soil matter

Thu, 13 Sep 2007 14:59:41 GMT

Good soil is one of the cornerstones of life. Without this precious, dynamic resource the world we know would cease to exist - crops would not grow; forests would vanish; humanity itself would disappear. We invite scientists and policymakers to give their opinions on the state of our soils and the challenges ahead. 13/09/07

Learning peace in Uganda

Thu, 13 Sep 2007 10:43:24 GMT

In northern Uganda, the best opportunity for peace has presented itself after 20 years of civil war. While the stability of the region is still uncertain, those returning home after a lifetime in refugee camps are beginning to learn how to cope after the trauma of war. 13/09/07

In this issue...

Thu, 13 Sep 2007 10:06:54 GMT

The predicted boom in world population is already exerting unprecedented pressure on agricultural land. As farmland is swallowed up by sprawling towns, cities and villages, there are fewer resources to feed ever more people. But there are ways of managing the land that can be sustainable while at the same time improving productivity and livelihoods. In this issue of New Agriculturist we look at schemes to regulate non-timber forest products, while addressing the growing issue of soil degradation, as well as new scientific developments aimed at benefiting farmers in the tropics. 13/09/07

News brief

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 16:08:32 GMT

A range of brief news items including the impact of recent natural disasters and extreme weather events, livestock disease, and rising wheat prices, as well as the latest developments in crop research and concerns over declining animal genetic diversity. 06/09/07

Zyta Soomar managing member of Longmore Flower Estates, Thornhill, South Africa

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 09:56:35 GMT

Zyta Soomar, of Longmore Flower Estates in South Africa, shares her experience of taking over a failed state-run flower company and turning it into a profitable enterprise. 06/09/07

Haiti

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 09:54:30 GMT

Haiti has undergone years of violent political struggles, environmental mismanagement and external economic shocks which have left it the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. Around 70 per cent of the workforce is unemployed, with over half of the country's 8.7 million people living in abject poverty. 06/09/07

The power of flowers

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 15:34:24 GMT

The global cut flower business is growing by an astonishing 20 per cent a year, with increasing demand for wild flowers, especially from the tip of southern Africa. It is the smallest floral kingdom on earth but the most diverse with more than 9000 plant species, known collectively as fynbos. Several hundred of them have increasing commercial value to farmers, who cut, pack and ship them around the world. 29/08/07

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Fri, 24 Aug 2007 11:59:35 GMT

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Fri, 24 Aug 2007 11:59:35 GMT

Full listing of the contents of this edition of the New Agriculturist. 24/08/07

Developments

Fri, 24 Aug 2007 11:35:58 GMT

24/08/07

Transforming agriculture in Africa

Fri, 03 Aug 2007 14:52:25 GMT

Over the last few decades, growth of agricultural production in Africa has been - for the most part - minimal and any value gained from cash crops is reaped in importing countries and not in the country of origin. And yet agriculture remains the backbone of the African economy. If Africa is to meet the Millennium Development Goals of 2015, what then is required to transform agriculture in Africa? At the General Assembly for the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) held in Johannesburg during June 2007, over 600 representatives gathered to discuss the ways in which African agriculture can be made more productive and competitive in a global economy. New Agriculturist provides a selection of their viewpoints. 03/08/07

In this issue...

Fri, 06 Jul 2007 16:58:58 GMT

In many developing countries, urban agriculture continues to be illegal and many local authorities have been slow to recognise its value. In this issue, we focus on the political, social and health aspects of cultivating land and rearing livestock in a city environment. Policy, education, infrastructure and recognition of farmer innovation are just some of the strategies for increasing agricultural productivity and competitiveness, as suggested by participants at a recent conference for the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), and summarised in Points of View. Identifying new products and markets is another key strategy, reflected in articles on African plum and bamboo - and In pictures, which highlights the expanding trade in native flowers from South Africa. This colourful business, and the increasing involvement of smallholder farmers, is also featured in our podcast, along with highlights from the recent South Africa Day held at the Irene Campus of the Agricultural Research Council (ARC). 06/07/07

Urban agriculture: balancing risks and benefits

Fri, 06 Jul 2007 11:53:38 GMT

Farmers are often evicted, dismissed, ignored and even condemned for promoting waste, pollution and illness within the city. But beyond its value as a survival strategy among the urban poor, there is growing evidence that urban farming increases the availability of fresh food, provides green spaces to combat pollution, and supports agritourism initiatives. 06/07/07

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Fri, 06 Jul 2007 11:53:38 GMT

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Fri, 06 Jul 2007 11:53:38 GMT

Full listing of the contents of this edition of the New Agriculturist. 06/07/07

Book reviews

Fri, 06 Jul 2007 11:53:38 GMT

Reviews of some of the latest publications, books and journals related to tropical agriculture and rural development. The lead book this month is "Feeding people is easy" by Colin Tudge. 06/07/07

Myanmar (Burma)

Fri, 06 Jul 2007 11:53:38 GMT

The largest nation in mainland Southeast Asia, Myanmar - also known as Burma - is home to more than 100 ethnic groups. A quarter of the population live below the poverty line. The country is ruled by a military junta which is accused of gross human rights abuse against its ethnic minorities and for reaping the benefits of illicit trade in timber, primarily teak, and opium poppy cultivation. Most of the population live in the Irawaddy basin, one of the world's greatest rice-growing regions. Sugar, cotton, palm oil and pulses are other major agricultural commodities. 06/07/07

Developments

Fri, 06 Jul 2007 11:53:38 GMT

Developments includes articles on the Enabling Rural Innovation approach, a way of helping communities plan their own development; the strenthening of the market for safou (African plum); a traceability system for livestock that is proving suitable for small-scale farmers in South Africa and Kenya; and efforts by the World Agroforesty Centre to expand bamboo cultivation in parts of Africa. 06/07/07

Alternative livelihoods

Tue, 22 May 2007 16:34:15 GMT

Whilst Alternative Livelihood Programme is frequently the name given to strategies developed to replace the illicit cultivation of crops, such as opium or coca, with alternative, legal crops for income generation, in this edition of New Agriculturist we focus on a range of activities, which provide more sustainable livelihood options to rural people. Economic alternatives to opium in Afghanistan, coca in Peru, tobacco in Bangladesh, cotton in Mali and logging in Indonesia and the Amazon, are featured along with cultivating mushrooms in drought-afflicted areas in Tanzania and promoting environmental conservation by raising silk worms in Kenya. 22/05/07

Animal health provision for poor livestock keepers

Tue, 22 May 2007 16:33:40 GMT

In Africa, livestock diseases such as East Coast fever, Newcastle disease and Rift Valley fever have a devastating impact on smallholder livelihoods. Unfortunately, provision of animal health care to poor livestock keepers has been in decline. In response, the Global Alliance for Livestock Veterinary Medicines is managing a ten-year programme which aims to tackle livestock disease by partnering with private and public sector organisations. Participants at the recent launch of GALVmed, gave their points of view to New Agriculturist on the current state of veterinary services, the challenges ahead, and the possibilities for improving livestock health provision for poor livestock keepers. 22/05/07

Father Godfrey Nzamujo, founder of the Songhai Centre, Porto Novo, Benin

Tue, 08 May 2007 12:33:46 GMT

Rice consumption in Africa is increasing at a massive rate, but most of this rice is imported. However the development of the New Rice for Africa varieties could transform rice production across the continent, with implications for the wider industry. Father Godfrey Nzamujo, pioneering founder of the Songhai Centre in Benin, explains why he believes the NERICA varieties could contribute to a revolution in African rice production. 08/05/07

In this issue...

Fri, 04 May 2007 16:20:27 GMT

Agriculture remains critical to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by 2015 if poverty is to be halved. In this Issue we provide an overview of the articles featured in this edition of New Agriculturist including a Focus on alternative livelihoods, for rural people facing a range of different constraints, including drought, climate change, loss of natural resources, and falling market prices, as well as the risks involved in growing illicit crops. Ethiopia, a country facing recurring famine is the Country Profile and the Points of View features opinions on animal health provision to poor livestock keepers. Livestock diseases, climate change and the development of genetically modified (GM) crops in developing countries are also featured in this edition. 04/05/07

Nigeria's wetlands - talking their way out of trouble

Fri, 04 May 2007 16:20:27 GMT

Damming of the rivers upstream of the Hadejia-Nguru wetlands in northern Nigeria has upset the normal annual water flows to Lake Chad. This has led to an explosion of Typha grass which blocks channels and takes over crop and pasture land, threatening livelihoods and contributing to a ten-fold increase in poverty levels. Improved communication between wetlands communities and the water management authorities is, however, starting to bring more responsive and transparent water management, to the benefit of all. 04/05/07

Book reviews

Fri, 04 May 2007 16:20:27 GMT

Reviews of some of the latest publications, books and journals related to tropical agriculture and rural development. The lead book this month is "The gene revolution: GM crops and unequal development". 04/05/07

News brief

Fri, 04 May 2007 16:20:27 GMT

A range of brief news items including the recent ECOWAS agreement for biotechnology, the threat to Uganda's Mbara forest, new pigeon pea variety, the IAASTD report, new pharmaceutical crops, foot-and-mouth report, guidelines for growing artemisia, and the Zambian winner of the Goldman Environment Prize. 04/05/07

Developments

Fri, 04 May 2007 16:20:27 GMT

Development articles include reducing fertiliser use in Shanxii Province in China, the launch of GALVmed, an animal health initiative to provide veterinary products to poor livestock keepers, enabling organic certification of cocoa in Ghana, growing potato tubers using aeroponics, and adding value to the leather industry in Argentina. 04/05/07

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Fri, 04 May 2007 16:20:27 GMT

Download the larger sections (Focus on, developments, news brief and book reviews) from this edition of the New Agriculturist as Rich Text Format (rtf) documents. 04/05/07

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Tue, 17 Apr 2007 11:00:46 GMT

Download the larger sections from this edition of the New Agriculturist as Rich Text Format (rtf) documents. 17/04/07

Download

Tue, 17 Apr 2007 11:00:46 GMT

Download the larger sections from this edition of the New Agriculturist as Rich Text Format (rtf) documents. 17/04/07

Paper thin profits - supplying Cuba's cigar industry

Thu, 08 Mar 2007 15:01:21 GMT

Cigars are Cuba's third most important export, and are internationally recognised for their quality. The country produces over 150 million cigars per year, with 70 per cent of Cuban tobacco grown in the western province of Pinar del Rio. In the Viñales valley, farmers cultivate a wide range of crops, including tobacco, mostly using traditional agricultural practices. 08/03/07

Book reviews

Thu, 08 Mar 2007 09:08:34 GMT

Reviews of some of the latest publications, books and journals related to tropical agriculture and rural development. The lead book this month is the biography of Norman Borlaug, father of the 'Green Revolution'. 08/03/07

News brief

Wed, 07 Mar 2007 15:47:13 GMT

A range of brief news items including the spread of stem rust, updates on disease related issues such as Avian Influenza and Rift Valley Fever, and new varieties of maize. Some of the latest updates on climate change are also included. 07/03/07

The food miles debate

Fri, 02 Mar 2007 14:16:35 GMT

With rising concerns over climate change, consumers, environmentalists and politicians in the North are questioning the environmental sense of importing foodstuffs by long distance air freight. For the smallholder farmers in countries like Kenya who have worked hard to meet export standards, the danger of losing those markets is deeply worrying. Points of View presents the response of Kenyan farmers, exporters and horticultural advisors to some key issues in the food miles debate. 02/03/07

In this issue...

Fri, 02 Mar 2007 08:57:12 GMT

In this issue, highlights include the latest updates from Kenya on the spread of Rift Valley Fever, and insight into the growing GM trend in Argentina. We review the biography of the 'Father of the Green Revolution', briefly examine current issues, such as the latest IPCC report and climate change, and visit Kenya in our latest podcast. 02/03/07

Developments

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 18:00:52 GMT

New initiatives and updates on research projects include growing khat in Kenya, where farmers are using their initiative to grow the semi-legal crop. In Argentina, the growing GM trend is explored, and new rice developments continue in west africa. The impact of Rift Valley Fever in East Africa is also examined. 01/03/07

Horticulture in the city

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 17:01:50 GMT

In Kibera, the largest slum in Africa, wastewater irrigation supports crop and fodder production. In Lima, fresh, urban-grown vegetables are on display at weekly markets, while in Cuba, profits from urban horticulture are ploughed back into community enterprises. In this edition we focus on the rooftop gardens, backyard enterprises and peri-urban plots that supply fresh produce to the world's cities and provide a good income for urban growers as well. 01/03/07

Krishan Bir Chaudhary, India's farming crisis

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 16:55:25 GMT

Known for his anti-GM and anti-globalisation views, Krishan Bir Chaudhary, executive chairman of Bharat Krishak Samaj, criticises the rules of the multilateral global trading regime. He urges governments to focus on the well-being of small farmers, arguing that liberalisation has denied Indian farmers adequate remunerative prices, causing debt and often suicide. 01/03/07

Paraguay

Tue, 27 Feb 2007 17:41:15 GMT

Small, and with the least dense population in the region, Paraguay's economy revolves around agriculture. The commercialisation of agriculture, population growth and forest clearances have led to a dramatic increase in the number of landless families, increasing migration into urban areas and shanty towns. But Paraguay's produce, such as cocoa and sugarcane, contributes to some important niche markets. 27/02/07

CD-Resource

Wed, 21 Feb 2007 17:23:09 GMT

The latest edition of the New Agriculturist CD-Resource is now available free of charge. This CD contains all editions of the New Agriculturist from January 2002 to December 2008. 21/02/07

Listen in

Wed, 14 Feb 2007 15:05:42 GMT

The listen in section provides links to additional audio material that is related to the site, including radio interviews and the New Agriculturist podcast. 14/02/07

Contact us

Wed, 14 Feb 2007 14:49:57 GMT

All the details you need to contact the New Agriculturist team. 14/02/07

For the diary

Wed, 14 Feb 2007 14:32:09 GMT

Up-coming agriculture and development conferences. 14/02/07

In this issue...

Mon, 08 Jan 2007 12:42:50 GMT

New Agriculturist online provides an update on the latest news and developments in tropical agriculture for a global audience. Also a summary of conferences for agriculturists and recent publications, including Unbowed by Wangari Maathai. 08/01/07

Northern Uganda - settling for peace

Mon, 08 Jan 2007 12:05:24 GMT

'Northern Uganda - settling for peace' tells in pictures how internally displaced people, once dependent on food aid, are now returning to their abandoned villages to cultivate a new future. 08/01/07

Developments

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 12:10:47 GMT

03/01/07

Book reviews

Thu, 14 Dec 2006 12:54:13 GMT

Reviews of some of the latest publications and books in tropical agriculture, rural development, and related areas including Unbowed: A memoir by Wangari Maathai. 14/12/06

News brief

Thu, 14 Dec 2006 12:54:13 GMT

The International Coffee Organisation, ICO, prices, demand, Uganda, President Obasanjo, Nigeria, indigenous, knowledge, herbal medicines, Kenya Agricultural Research Institute, KARI, avocados, ethylene hormone, prolong, shelf-life, Association of Southeast Asian Nations, ASEAN, boost, rice, production, International Rice Research Institute, IRRI, Conservation International, CI, ban, deep sea, bottom trawling, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, IITA, GM, banana, bacterial wilt, improved, maize, European Space Agency, ESA, TIGER, water, cottonseed, World Health Organisation, WHO, International Potato Centre, CIP, pesticide, Peru, foot-and-mouth, FMD, disease, India, livestock, Wellcome Trust, CGIAR, awards, bananas, leafy vegetables, cowpeas, pearl, millet, sorghum, CIMMYT 14/12/06

Health and Agriculture

Thu, 14 Dec 2006 09:44:42 GMT

Focus on Health and Agriculture goes beyond food security and livelihoods to look at the nutritional functions that farming could and should fulfil. 14/12/06

Points of view: Agricultural innovation

Thu, 14 Dec 2006 09:44:42 GMT

New Agriculturist: Points of view - Agricultural innovation. A selection of viewpoints on agricultural innovation systems and how they should be developed and enhanced, so as to increase the impact of formal agricultural research. 14/12/06

Burkina Faso

Wed, 13 Dec 2006 15:11:51 GMT

Despite significant mineral deposits, Burkina Faso remains one of the poorest countries in the world. Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy; more than three million people, mainly subsistence farmers, depend on cotton production for their income whilst a further three million are involved in the industry. Such is the value of cotton to the economy that the government has joined with other cotton producing countries to lobby for improved access to western markets. 13/12/06

a personal viewpoint

Wed, 13 Dec 2006 15:10:39 GMT

Katherine Sierra, vice president for Sustainable Development at the World Bank, outlines her vision for the CGIAR as tackling specific global agricultural issues, including climate change and diseases such as avian flu and the wheat rust UG99. She believes the role of the CGIAR is to husband the resources and provide research which extends the benefits to reducing poverty and improving poor people's livelihoods. 13/12/06

The New Agriculturist

Cocoa video - Ghana's television extension

Three bags full - the black sheep of Deccan

News brief

Developments

Book reviews

Going wild for silk in Zimbabwe

Sustainable sisal in Tanzania

Kyrgyzstan - cashing in on cashmere

Building capacity for change in Peru's alpaca sector

Natural fibres

In this issue...

Predicting and coping with climate change in Africa

Awash with cotton

Embracing change within the CGIAR

Innovation systems: a testing process

A-maize-ing progress in Ethiopia

Agricultural science - a promising future?

Coir - a fibre for the future?

Mongolia

Voting for vetiver in Ethiopia

Saving African soils: grounds for hope?

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Contents

Book reviews

Less water, fewer plants, more rice - the SRI revolution

A global partnership to end hunger

Cotton expert Karim Hussein

The appeal of peel

Honduras

Africa's slow food revolution

A call to action for animal genetic resources

In this issue...

Healthy, wealthy and wise - medicinal plants in DRC

Animal genetic resources

News brief

Recognising livestock keepers' rights

No longer in a pickle in Madagascar

Saving the 'night queen' of Chilika

Fighting for survival in Central Asia

On the hoof in Patagonia

Life on the front line in the southwest Pacific

Bahati Tweve: The honest 'middleman' brokering deals

Developments

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Contents

African agriculture - prime time to invest?

News brief

Book reviews

Desert dessert - camel milk ice cream

In this issue...

Developments

Democratic Republic of Congo

Boitshepo Bibi Giyose, NEPAD

African banana - on an upward curve

In this issue...

Download

Contents

African bananas - unlocking the potential

Sheila Sisulu, World Food Programme

In this issue...

Developments

Book reviews

Book reviews

Ancient traditions, modern relevance

Solomon Islands

Common resources

Book reviews

Ethiopia

News brief

News brief

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Contents

Book reviews

Babagana Ahmadu of the African Union Commission

Coming clean on wastewater irrigation

Planting for profit in Afghanistan

News brief

Senegal

Potato