Algerian Union Bank opens in Nouakchott. Ironu traces what its trade finance means for Mauritania’s food imports, processing and rural value chains.
Section
Farming
Gorou Banda solar plant in Niger — customer demand how the market shifts for investors
As of 5 July 2023, Niger’s Gorou Banda solar plant is on the grid. What firmer power means for irrigation, cold chains, processing and agritech near Niamey.
Navigating FMD Zones: Authorities Outline Permitted Goods
The government clarified in June 2023 which goods may cross foot-and-mouth disease zones, with digital permits proposed to streamline compliance for farmers and traders.
Dangote Refinery launch in Nigeria — asset and corridor map for founders and investors
As of 22 May 2023, Ironu traces the Dangote Refinery through Nigeria’s food system: diesel costs, rural value capture, the finance gap and regional corridors.
Farmers Demand Compensation for Cattle Culled in FMD Battle
Makgadikgadi farmers sought compensation for cattle lost to culling and movement restrictions, underscoring the cost of disease control falling on the herd owner. [TK: widely reported, uncited.]
Vaccination Wins Over Mass Culling in Foot-and-Mouth Response
Veterinarians chose to vaccinate rather than mass-cull foot-and-mouth-infected livestock, relieving farmers and raising cold-chain demand. The shift moves the cost from destruction to logistics.
Post-Mining Pivot: Selebi Phikwe Citrus Project Seeks Expansion
After BCL’s copper-mine closure, Selebi Phikwe’s farming and tourism push includes a citrus project employing over 300 workers and now seeking expansion. A mining town learns to grow.
Clarity on Goods Allowed Through FMD Zones Reduces Trade Disruption
The Department of Veterinary Services listed goods such as hides and processed meats that may move across foot-and-mouth zones, easing confusion. Clarity, not new rules, reduced the disruption.
Border Fence Demanded as Farmers Fear Losing EU Beef Market
Kgalagadi farmers want a 200 km fence along the Molopo River to keep foot-and-mouth out and the EU beef market open. The proposal reads as a measure of how much that market is worth.