Coronavirus and Mink

Coronavirus has been greatly impacting the mink industry around the globe. Towards the beginning of the month there was news out of Denmark that caused concern and there are now other areas who have been impacted. We encourage you to read the linked pages and articles below. We have provided discussion points to encourage further discussion with others around the globe.

WHO Release - Denmark - November 6th

Video on Denmark Mink and Coronavirus

Coronavirus and Minks in Greece - November 13th

Discussion Points

• What are the concerns with coronavirus in relation to mink production? Are these concerns warranted? What are the different views from around the world?
• What does mink production look like globally? How will this impact the market and future of production? (Conduct additional research if needed.)
• What countries to date have been impacted by coronavirus in mink?
• Imagine that you are the Secretary/Minister of Agriculture in a country where coronavirus is impacting mink. What would your plan be to tackle the challenge? What policies and procedures would you suggest/implement and why?

COVID-19 and Kenyan Agriculture

COVID-19 has impacted everyone around the globe including those in Kenya engaged with agriculture. There have certainly been challenges, but also success stories involving innovation and determination. Three stories from around Kenya are shared below. We encourage you to watch all three short videos and engage with others utilizing the discussion points provided. 

Mwatate Smallholder Tomato Farmers

Taveta Smallholder Banana Farmers

Voi Smallholder Farmers and Micro Gardens

Discussion Points

• What are the challenges facing smallholder farmers in Kenya as a result of COVID-19?
• How are smallholder farmers in Kenya being innovative to overcome challenges they are facing due to COVID-19?
• As a result of watching the videos what surprised you? What did you learn? What were your big takeaways?
• Is COVID-19 impacting farmers and agriculture in your home area? How does what you are seeing (or not seeing) in your area relate to the situation in Kenya?

United States Soybeans to Brazil

Many reports have shown that in May of 2020 Brazil overtook the United States as the number one soybean producing country in the world. With this being the case why is Brazil importing soybeans from the United States? The article linked below provides some answers. We encourage you to explore the linked article and utilize the discussion points to guide your conversations around the globe. 

Brazil-Bound U.S. Soybean Vessel Loading at Gulf Coast Terminal

Discussion Points

• Why is Brazil turning to the United States for soybeans?
• What did you find most surprising from the article and why?
• Trade relations can have intended and unintended consequences that impact many around the globe. What are some examples within this article? 
• What are the trade relations with your home country and the world? What do you see as the future?