In a world where climate change, water scarcity, and food insecurity are mounting concerns, Netafim—a global pioneer in precision irrigation and a business of Orbia Advance Corporation—is celebrating 60 years of transforming agriculture.
From humble beginnings on a kibbutz in Israel’s Negev desert in 1965, Netafim introduced drip irrigation technology to the world—reshaping how crops are grown and how water is used in farming. Six decades later, the company’s impact reaches over 110 countries, including across Africa, where its solutions are helping farmers adapt to drier climates, improve yields, and reduce water waste.
“Our mission to help farmers grow more with less has never been more relevant,” says Gaby Miodownik, President of Orbia’s Precision Agriculture business (Netafim). “From drought-stricken lands to areas battling food insecurity, we are committed to making sustainable agriculture accessible and effective.”
🌍 Solving Real Challenges with Smart Solutions
Agriculture today consumes 70% of the world’s freshwater, while nearly half the global population faces water shortages for at least part of the year. These challenges are especially urgent across many African regions, where farmers are grappling with harsher weather patterns and unreliable rainfall.
Netafim’s precision irrigation systems—including drip irrigation, fertigation, and digital farming tools—offer a way forward. These solutions:
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Deliver water directly to the plant’s roots, reducing waste
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Boost crop yields with less input
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Enable farmers to control and monitor irrigation with mobile devices
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Make it easier to farm efficiently even with limited water or poor soils
To date, Netafim has worked with 8.5 million farmers, irrigated 10 million hectares of farmland, and produced over 150 billion drippers globally.
🚀 Leading with Innovation
Netafim isn’t resting on its legacy. Over the past year alone, the company introduced:
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GrowSphere™, a cutting-edge digital farming operating system that allows remote control of irrigation and fertigation
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The world’s first Hybrid dripper with a built-in welded outlet for maximum efficiency
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Expanded access to carbon credit programs, rewarding farmers for sustainable practices
Through these advances, Netafim is not just providing products—it’s helping build climate-smart farming systems that are resilient, scalable, and future-focused.
🇿🇦 A Trusted Partner for African Farmers
Across South Africa, Kenya, Morocco, Ethiopia, and other African countries, Netafim is playing a key role in helping farmers:
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Transition from rain-fed to precision irrigation systems
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Increase water productivity in crops like maize, sugarcane, citrus, grapes, and vegetables
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Gain better access to global markets through improved quality and consistency
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Embrace sustainable practices that protect natural resources for the next generation
“We are proud to stand alongside Africa’s farmers, offering not only technology but knowledge and partnership,” Miodownik added. “Together, we’re proving that smart farming can feed the future.”
📈 Looking Ahead
As Netafim celebrates 60 years, it remains firmly focused on empowering the next generation of farmers—with tools that make every drop of water count and every harvest more secure. The company’s work is a reminder that innovation in agriculture isn’t just about tech—it’s about people, food, and the future.
To explore Netafim’s journey and learn more about precision irrigation in Africa, visit: www.netafim.com