The Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF) recently hosted a workshop on AI in Agrotechnology, inviting representatives from friendly nations to share new breakthroughs in agricultural innovations. The workshop not only showcased Taiwan’s Smart Agriculture technology development but also encouraged collaboration on future projects with participating countries. Manja Strever, an MSc Viticulture student affiliated with the South African Grape and Wine Research Institute (SAGWRI), participated in the workshop held in Taiwan.

 

Driving forces for Taiwan’s agricultural R&D:

1. An increase in the average age of the agricultural labour force and growing labour shortages

2. The impact of climate change, which intensifies adverse weather conditions such as typhoons

3. Limited agricultural land available for production

In response, the Ministry of Agriculture in Taiwan has implemented its Smart Agriculture Program, which focuses on two main areas: smart production and digital services. The goals of this vision are to improve the efficiency and performance of agricultural operations, increase food safety and quality, and strengthen risk management. A key success factor is the close collaboration between government, higher education institutions, and agri-tech companies. This integrated approach allows for faster adoption of technological innovations, as aligned goals and collaboration lead to increased productivity.

Interesting topics discussed:

• Greenhouse technology: Due to Taiwan’s vulnerability to severe weather conditions such as typhoons, there is strong interest in smart greenhouses and vertical farming. Various greenhouse models were presented, including typhoon-resistant structures and smart greenhouses that can be remotely operated.

• Drone technology for precision agriculture: Taiwan has developed and manufactured several drone models for diverse terrains and use cases. The country holds five patents for drone designs, one of which includes a unique airflow rotor system that enables the drone to direct spray applications while in flight. This is particularly useful for treating tall trees and enhances precision in spray applications overall.

• Livestock monitoring systems: Taiwan has introduced digital technologies in livestock farming, including a pilot project for swine farms. These technologies support production management, environmental and health monitoring, and disease diagnosis. By automating tasks such as pig counting and observation, farmers can focus on more critical responsibilities.

Key take-away messages from the workshop:

• Use AI to handle non-essential tasks and reduce workload for producers, while recognising that domain knowledge remains crucial for interpreting and applying AI-generated outputs.

• High-cost equipment is not always necessary to implement precision agriculture.

• Accurate data about farm operations is essential for applying AI and precision management tools—record-keeping is therefore extremely important.

• Aim to balance the preservation of indigenous and traditional farming practices with the integration of new methods to enhance productivity and reduce labour inputs.

 

Article supplied by Manja Strever
Edited by Precious Canham

In ’n innoverende stap vir plant- en insekdiagnose het die Plant Disease Clinic Stellenbosch (PDC) en Bluebug Insek Diagnostiese Dienste amptelik in April 2025 saamgesmelt!  Die nuut verenigde diens sal onder die naam PDC Stellenbosch voortgaan, wat die Universiteit Stellenbosch (US) se sleutelrol in gevorderde plantsiekte- en plaagdiagnose versterk. 

Hoekom dit belangrik is 

Akkurate diagnose is van kritiese belang om duur foute in plaag- en siektebestuur te voorkom, volhoubare landbou te verseker, en plaaslike gewasgesondheid te beskerm. Met hierdie samesmelting versterk PDC Stellenbosch sy vermoë om vinnige, betroubare en omvattende diagnose te bied vir swam-, oömiseet- en bakteriese plantsiektes, myte, insekte en aalwurms. Die diens speel ook ’n sleutelrol in die monitering van opkomende bedreigings, wat bydra tot biosekuriteit en langtermyn landbouvolhoubaarheid. 

‘n Erfenis van Uitnemendheid en Groei 

Gestig in Oktober 2000 deur prof. Gustav Holz, Sonja Coertze en Lizeth Swart, het PDC Stellenbosch gegroei van ‘n nederige begin—met slegs 36 diagnostiese monsters in sy eerste jaar—tot meer as 1 000 monsters per jaar sedert 2015. Vandag sluit die span hoogs gekwalifiseerde diagnostici en tegnici, met meer as 40 jaar se gesamentlike ervaring, in. Die PDC Stellenbosch-span bestaan uit twee voltydse MSc-gekwalifiseerde diagnostici, Doré de Villiers en Elaine Basson, asook bekwame tegnici Brenda de Wee en Marchel Britz. Sonja Coertze lei die kliniek se bedrywighede, terwyl prof. Adéle McLeod kundigheid in besigheidsontwikkeling en molekulêre opsporingstegnieke bied. Die PDC gebruik verskeie metodes, insluitend visuele inspeksies, laboratoriumondersoeke en molekulêre diagnose om swam-, oömiseet- en bakteriese plantsiektes akkuraat te identifiseer. Hul dienste het onlangs uitgebrei om ook swamdodersensitiwiteits- en viroïedtoetse in te sluit. 

In September 2023 het die PDC na ’n moderne fasiliteit in die Paul van der Bijl-gebou op die Welgevallen Proefplaas geskuif, moontlik gemaak deur die Universiteit Stellenbosch (Strategiese fonds) en sleutelbedryfsvennote. Die kliniek se borge sluit in: 

• Goue Borge: Hortgro, South Africa Wine en SATI 

• Silwer Borge: VillaCrop 

• Brons Borge: Korkom, Berries ZA, ICA en Nexus 

’n Advieskomitee, gestig in 2022, lei PDC Stellenbosch se aktiwiteite en finansiële volhoubaarheid, en verseker voortdurende innovasie en bedryfsrelevansie. Komiteelede sluit in Bekker Wessels (ProCrop), Hugh Campbell (Hortgro), Anel Andrag (South Africa Wine), Albert Strever (US Departement van Wingerd- en Wynkunde), Dereck du Toit (privaat konsultant), Rudolph Geldenhuys (privaat konsultant en vorige HUB van InteliChem), Kobus Serfontein (ICA), MJ Freeborough (Fakulteitsbestuurder: AgriWetenskappe) en Cheryl Lennox (US Departement van Plantpatologie). 

Die Opkoms van Bluebug Insekdiagnostiek 

Met die erkenning van die behoefte aan ’n gespesialiseerde insekdiagnostiese diens, het prof. Pia Addison van US se Departement van Bewaringsekologie en Entomologie in 2014 die stigting van so ’n diens gelei. Danksy bedryfsbefondsing van South Africa Wine, Hortgro en SATI, het Bluebug sy kundigheid uitgebrei en dr. Caro Kapp in 2018 aangestel. Dit het hul kapasiteit vir insekte-, myt- en nematooddiagnose verhoog, insluitend knopmytanalisering vir kernvrugte en ander gewasse. Bluebug het in 2021 sy dienste uitgebrei om beide in-persoon en aanlyn werkswinkels aan te bied. 

Die Toekoms van die PDC Stellenbosch 

Met hierdie strategiese samesmelting is PDC Stellenbosch gereed om ’n eenstopdiens vir plantsiekte- en plaagdiagnose te word, met ongeëwenaarde kundigheid in plantpatologie en entomologie. Hierdie samewerking verseker die voortgesette beskerming van Suid-Afrika se landbousektor en rus boere, navorsers en bedryfskenners toe met die beste hulpmiddels om plae en siektes te bestry. 

Bly ingeskakel vir meer opdaterings soos PDC Stellenbosch die pad baan na ’n gesonder, meer volhoubare toekoms in landbou!

PDC Stellenbosch-span: Van links na regs: (voorste ry) Doré de Villiers, Sonja Coertze en Adéle McLeod. (agterste ry) Marchel Britz, Brenda de Wee, Elaine Basson, Caro Kapp en Pia Addison.

In an innovative move for plant and insect diagnostics, The Plant Disease Clinic Stellenbosch (PDC) and Bluebug Insect Diagnostic Services have officially merged as of April 2025! The newly unified service will continue to operate under the name PDC Stellenbosch, reinforcing Stellenbosch University’s (SU) pivotal role in advancing cutting-edge plant disease and pest diagnostics. 

Why This Matters 

Accurate diagnostics are critical for preventing costly errors in pest and disease management, ensuring sustainable agriculture, and protecting local crop health. With this merger, PDC Stellenbosch strengthens its ability to provide fast, reliable, and comprehensive diagnostics for fungal, oomycete and bacterial plant pathogens, mites, insects, and nematodes. The service also plays a key role in tracking emerging threats, contributing to biosecurity and long-term agricultural sustainability. 

A Legacy of Excellence & Growth 

Founded in October 2000 by Prof. Gustav Holz, Sonja Coertze and Lizeth Swart, the PDC Stellenbosch has grown from humble beginnings—handling just 36 diagnostic samples in its first year—to processing over 1,000 samples annually since 2015. Today, its team includes highly qualified diagnosticians and technicians with over 40 years of combined expertise. The PDC Stellenbosch team features a strong lineup of experts, including two full-time MSc-qualified diagnosticians, Doré de Villiers and Elaine Basson, along with skilled technicians Brenda de Wee and Marchel Britz. Leading the clinic’s operations is Sonja Coertze, while Prof. Adéle McLeod provides expertise in business development and molecular detection techniques. The PDC employs diverse methods, including visual inspections, laboratory examinations, and molecular diagnostics to pinpoint fungal, oomycete and bacterial plant pathogens thus ensuring precision in disease identification. Their services recently expanded to include fungicide sensitivity- and viroid testing.  

In September 2023, the PDC relocated to a state-of-the-art facility at the Paul van der Bijl building on the Welgevallen Experimental Farm, made possible through Stellenbosch University (strategic fund grant) and key industry partners. The clinic’s industry sponsors include: 

• Gold Sponsors: Hortgro, South Africa Wine and SATI 

• Silver Sponsor: VillaCrop 

• Bronze Sponsors: Korkom, Berries ZA, ICA and Nexus 

An advisory committee, established in 2022, has guided PDC Stellenbosch’s activities and financial sustainability, ensuring continuous innovation and industry relevance. Committee members include Bekker Wessels (ProCrop), Hugh Campbell (Hortgro), Anel Andrag (South Africa Wine), Albert Strever (SU Viticulture and Oenology Department), Dereck du Toit (private consultant), Rudolph Geldenhuys (private consultant and previous CEO of InteliChem), Kobus Serfontein (ICA), MJ Freeborough (AgriSciences Faculty Manager) and Cheryl Lennox (SU Department of Plant Pathology).  

The Rise of Bluebug Insect Diagnostics 

Recognizing the need for a specialized insect identification service, Prof. Pia Addison of SU’s Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology spearheaded the establishment of an identification service during 2014. Thanks to industry funding from South Africa Wine, Hortgro, and SATI, Bluebug expanded its expertise, appointing Dr. Caro Kapp during 2018. This increased their capacity for insect, mite and nematode diagnostics, including bud mite analysis for pome and other fruit crops. Bluebug Insect Diagnostic Service expanded its services in 2021 to offer both in person and online workshops. 

The Future of PDC Stellenbosch 

With this strategic merger, PDC Stellenbosch is set to become a one-stop plant disease and pest diagnostic hub, providing unparalleled expertise in plant pathology and entomology. This collaboration ensures the continued protection of South Africa’s agricultural sector, equipping farmers, researchers, and industry professionals with the best tools to combat pests and diseases. 

Stay tuned for more updates as PDC Stellenbosch paves the way for a healthier, more resilient agricultural future!

Plant Disease Clinic Stellenbosch team: From left to right: (front row) Doré de Villiers, Sonja Coertze and Adéle McLeod. (back row) Marchel Britz, Brenda de Wee, Elaine Basson, Caro Kapp and Pia Addison.

As part of its centenary celebrations, the Department of Agricultural Economics at Stellenbosch University launched a series of special events in collaboration with alumni chapters across the Western Cape. The first two events in this commemorative series were hosted in partnership with the Breede River and Overberg Maties Alumni Chapters, bringing together thought leaders, industry experts, and alumni to engage in timely discussions on the future of agriculture in South Africa. 

The centenary celebrations commenced with a dynamic panel discussion on the role of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in shaping the future of high-value agricultural sectors in South Africa. Held at the picturesque Waverley Hills Organic Wines estate and co-hosted with the Breede River Maties Alumni Chapter, this event highlighted the importance of sustainability, responsible governance, and ethical investment in the evolving agricultural landscape. 

The panel was moderated by Dr Melissa van der Merwe, Agricultural Economist in the Agricultural Economics Department. Panellists Frans van Wyk (Agrifusion), Anel Blignaut (Blue North), and Andries Dreyer (Absa) covered a broad range of topics, from regenerative agriculture and sustainable finance to ethical supply chains and ESG compliance requirements. The discussion focused on: 

• The increasing global emphasis on transparency, traceability, and accountability in agri-food value chains. 

• The transition toward climate-smart production models and the role of regenerative practices in ensuring long-term farm viability. 

• The growing influence of finance-linked sustainability instruments, with ESG metrics shaping access to capital and market competitiveness. 

The critical need for cross-sector collaboration to embed ESG principles across policy, research, and practice. 

Seated: The Breede River Alumni Chapter with Dr Melissa van der Merwe, Anel Blignaut, Andries Dreyer, and Frans van Wyk

 

The Department extends sincere appreciation to Ferdi van Dyk (SU), Karen Bruns (SU), Jéan Fouché (Breede River Alumni Chapter), and Carli Broodryk (Breede River Alumni Chapter) for their exceptional coordination and hospitality. Our thanks also go to Waverley Hills for providing an inspiring venue aligned with the principles of sustainability discussed throughout the morning. 

The second event in the centenary series took place in partnership with the Overberg Maties Alumni Chapter and focused on a timely and complex topic: The Future of Agricultural Trade. Hosted at Paul Clüver Wines in the Elgin Valley, the panel discussion brought together leading voices to examine the shifting trade landscape and its implications for South African agriculture. 

Moderated by journalist Anlie Hattingh, the panel featured Tshepo Morokong (Western Cape Department of Agriculture), Anton Kruger (Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum), and Hilton Zunckel (International Trade Consultant). Their discussion reflected on how global, regional, and domestic factors are shaping agricultural trade and competitiveness. 

Key themes that emerged included: 

• The rise of protectionism and unpredictable policies, particularly following the Trump-era trade agenda, has renewed the importance of rules-based multilateral trade systems. 

• The uncertain future of AGOA (African Growth and Opportunity Act) highlights the need for South Africa to diversify its trade relationships and support fellow SACU members who depend on preferential access. 

• The impact of domestic infrastructure constraints and the lack of trade agreements with key Asian markets limits export potential. 

• Persistent non-tariff barriers, such as the EU’s restrictions on Citrus Black Spot, and how collaborative industry responses have mitigated these challenges. 

• Regional fragmentation within SACU, characterised by unilateral border closures that undermine trade integration, underscores the necessity for stronger leadership from South Africa. 

• The opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) highlight the significance of establishing institutions and securing finance for exporters to fully leverage intra-African trade.
  

 

From Left to Right: Anton Kruger, Tshepo Morokong, Hilton Zunckel, and Anlie Hattingh

 

The Department extends its gratitude to Dr Andre Jooste, Agricultural Economist in the Department of Agricultural Economics, and Ferdi van Dyk (SU) for organising the event, along with Paul Clüver Wines for their generous hospitality. 

These two events marked the beginning of a year-long celebration honouring the Department’s 100-year legacy. They demonstrated the power of academic and industry collaboration, as well as the strength of the Stellenbosch University alumni network, in fostering dialogue that informs policy, drives innovation, and shapes the future of South African agriculture. 

For more information on these and future events, please contact Dr Melissa van der Merwe at vdmm@sun.ac.za

The Department of Genetics at Stellenbosch University is home to a vibrant and diverse academic community of 23 staff members whose research spans the full spectrum of genetics – from plant and animal genetics to human health. Closely integrated into this ecosystem is the Institute for Plant Biotechnology and Breeding (IPBB), a leading centre for innovation in molecular biology, genetic engineering, and applied breeding. Together, these groups contribute to a rich, interdisciplinary research environment with a significant global reach.

To showcase the breadth of research being conducted, the department recently curated highlights from the work of several academics, reflecting both the depth of their individual research programmes and their international impact and collaborations.

Prof Anna-Maria Botha-Oberholster: Plant Genomics and International Collaboration

Prof Anna-Maria Botha-Oberholster, a full professor in the Department of Genetics, is a highly accomplished researcher whose work in plant genomics bridges fundamental science and practical agricultural applications. A B-rated scientist by the NRF, she is one of the department’s most cited academics, with over 5,800 citations, an h-index of 39, and more than 150 peer-reviewed publications—excluding patents, reports, and book chapters.

In 2025, she co-authored the article “Evaluating long-read assemblers to assemble several Aphididae genomes”, published in Briefings in Bioinformatics, contributing valuable genomic tools for agriculturally important aphid species. She also co-authored two high-impact review papers: “Russian wheat aphid: A model for genomic plasticity and a challenge to breeders” and “Unlocking Wheat Drought Tolerance: The Synergy of Omics Data and Computational Intelligence.”

Prof Botha-Oberholster is the South African partner in the EU-funded NATUREBIOPROMO project under the Biodiversa+ and Water4All initiatives. This collaboration includes researchers from Portugal, Brazil, Italy, the Czech Republic, and South Africa, and seeks nature-based biotechnological solutions to reduce pesticide use and improve crop resilience through beneficial microbiomes and bioactives.

She leads a dynamic research team including Dr Hendrik Swiegers (postdoctoral fellow), Dr F Burger (bioinformatician/technical officer), and a cohort of postgraduate students. Her group focuses on host-pathogen genomics, functional biology, and systems-level approaches to plant defence.

 

Prof James Lloyd: Engineering Future-Ready Crops

Prof James Lloyd, a C-rated scientist and associate professor at IPBB, is a leading figure in plant metabolic engineering, particularly starch metabolism. With more than 3,900 citations, an h-index of 28, and over 43 publications, his work significantly shapes both theoretical and applied plant biotechnology.

His most recent article, accepted in Biotechnology Journal, is titled “Simultaneous Repression of GLUCAN WATER DIKINASE 1 and STARCH BRANCHING ENZYME 1 in Potato Tubers Leads to Starch with Increased Amylose and Novel Industrial Properties.” The study presents a gene-silencing approach that improves starch quality for industrial use.

Prof Lloyd was awarded a three-year NRF Rated Researcher Grant for his project “Making potatoes resistant to virus attack and healthier to eat using genome editing.” This CRISPR-based research, a collaboration with Dr Manuela Campa, Prof Johan Burger (SU), and Dr Zanele Mdodane (NWU), targets both virus resistance and starch digestibility to reduce risks associated with type II diabetes.

Prof Aletta Bester-van der Merwe: Genetics for Ocean Conservation

Prof Aletta Bester-van der Merwe, associate professor, plays a key role in marine conservation genetics, particularly in elasmobranch (shark and ray) population studies. With an h-index of 22, i10-index of 40, and over 70 publications, her contributions have helped shape marine molecular ecology in the region.

She is a principal researcher in the international COEXISTENCE project (2025–2028), investigating socio-ecological conflicts between fisheries and marine megafauna in the South West Indian Ocean. Her work focuses on genetic connectivity in the Mozambique Channel and aims to inform conservation policy through genomics.

Prof Bester-van der Merwe leads a strong research group including Dr Juliana Klein and Dr Michaela van Staden, both postdoctoral fellows. Over her 13 years as principal investigator, she has supervised and co-supervised 10 PhD, 15 MSc, and 25 Honours students.

Dr Nathaniel McGregor: Global Psychiatry and Genomic Insight

Dr Nathaniel McGregor, a senior lecturer, is advancing global psychiatric genetics through international collaborations. With over 2,200 citations, an h-index of 17, and more than 21 publications, his work is gaining notable traction.

In 2025, he co-authored “New Genomics Discoveries Across the Bipolar Disorder Spectrum Implicate Neurobiological and Developmental Pathways” in Biological Psychiatry, which highlights emerging genomic signals across bipolar subtypes and explores previously uncharacterised neurodevelopmental pathways. He also contributed to a landmark Nature Genetics study titled “Genome-wide analyses identify 30 loci associated with obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD),” a meta-analysis of over 53,000 OCD cases that identified significant risk loci and implicated key neuronal pathways.

Together, these studies expand the global understanding of complex psychiatric disorders and underscore Dr McGregor’s key role in international genomics consortia.

Dr Christell van der Vyver: Sugarcane Innovation for the Future

Dr Christell van der Vyver, lecturer and C2-rated scientist, is contributing to South Africa’s biotechnology industry, particularly in sugarcane improvement. With over 800 citations, an h-index of 16, and more than 30 publications, she is driving innovation in applied plant biotechnology.

Her recent projects include a two-year contract with ABF SUGAR (Pty) Ltd to develop genetically modified sugarcane lines resistant to the yellow sugarcane aphid, and a South African Sugar Association (SASA) funded project establishing gene editing technologies for sugarcane.

In 2025, she published “Comparative Transcriptomic Analysis of AtBBX29 Transgenic and Wild Type Sugarcane Exposed to Drought Stress” in Physiologia Plantarum, and an invited review in In Vitro Cellular & Developmental Biology – Plant titled “Sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrids) Biotechnology Research in South Africa”, highlighting South Africa’s biotechnology trajectory in sugarcane.

Dr Marlon-Schylor Le Roux: AI-Driven Agriculture for a Changing Climate

Dr Marlon-Schylor Le Roux, a lecturer and emerging researcher, is gaining recognition for his work combining molecular biology, artificial intelligence, and sustainable agriculture. With over 100 citations and growing, he is part of a new generation of researchers leveraging technology to address food security.

He co-authored “Russian wheat aphid: A model for genomic plasticity and a challenge to breeders”, and led “Unlocking Wheat Drought Tolerance: The Synergy of Omics Data and Computational Intelligence”, both published in 2025. His research promotes AI-driven solutions to climate-related crop stress.

Dr Le Roux also holds three competitive research grants, including support from the DSI High-End Infrastructure Programme, an NRF Thuthuka grant, and postdoctoral funding enabling the appointment of Dr Nadia Fisher-Smith. His research programme is focused on CRISPR genome editing and AI-powered phenotyping for stress-resilient crops.

Dr M le Roux teaching a class on Genetics

Looking Ahead

The Department of Genetics, in collaboration with IPBB, continues to be a pillar of excellence in the Faculty of AgriSciences. Its strength lies not in uniformity, but in the diversity of its research areas—from advanced plant biotechnology and molecular ecology to psychiatric genetics and conservation biology.

As the department approaches its 100-year milestone, the legacy of excellence is clearly carried forward by a new generation of researchers building on the foundation laid by their predecessors. Whether through classroom teaching or cutting-edge research, the department’s academics are deeply committed to shaping the future of science—locally and globally.

Prof Marena Manley, van die Departement Voedselwetenskap, is deur die Internasionale Raad vir Naby-infrarooi-spektroskopie (ICNIRS) as die 2025-ontvanger van die gesogte Tomas Hirschfeld-toekenning (THA) aangewys. Sy is die eerste Suid-Afrikaner om hierdie eer te ontvang. 

Die toekenning, wat deur BÜCHI gefinansier word, was op 10 Junie tydens die 22ste Internasionale Konferensie oor Naby-Infrarooi-spektroskopie-konferensie (NIR2025) in Rome, Italië, aan haar oorhandig. 

Manley, ‘n toonaangewende navorser in voedselwetenskap, het die toepassing van NIR-spektroskopie en hiperspektrale beelding aansienlik bevorder, veral in graankosnavorsing. Sy het sedert sy in 1997 by die US aangesluit het, meer as 75 nagraadse studente gelei, 135 eweknie-geëvalueerde referate laat verskyn en gehelp om die Universiteit as ‘n toonaangewende NIR-spektroskopie-navorsingsentrum in Afrika te posisioneer.  

Manley, tans ‘n volle professor in die US se Fakulteit AgriWetenskappe, het ‘n belangrike rol in die bevordering van NIR-spektroskopie en hiperspektrale beeldnavorsing gespeel. Haar baanbrekerswerk het die begrip en toepassing van hierdie tegnologieë aansienlik beïnvloed, veral in die karakterisering van heterogene graanmonsters.  

Sy het ook ‘n sleutelrol in die vestiging van Afrika se enigste vibrasiespektroskopie-eenheid gespeel wat met gevorderde hiperspektrale beeldvermoëns toegerus is. Haar pogings het nie net die US as ‘n kern vir NIR-spektroskopie-navorsing in Afrika bevorder nie, maar het ook internasionale erkenning gekry, wat in haar indrukwekkende H-indeks (maatstaf vir produktiwiteit en impak van ‘n wetenskaplike of vakkundige) van 39 (Scopus) en 47 (Google) weerspieël word. 

Manley het in verskeie leierskapsrolle binne ICNIRS gedien en dra steeds by tot die wêreldwye spektroskopiegemeenskap. Benewens hierdie internasionale erkenning, is sy ook al verskeie nasionale toekennings ontvang, insluitende die US se Kanselierstoekenning (2022) vir haar rol as opvoeder en vir haar navorsingsuitnemendheid – spesifiek vir haar bydrae tot die bevordering van NIR-spektroskopie en hiperspektrale beelding in Suid-Afrika en verder weg.

Prof Marena Manley ontvang die Tomas Hirschfeld-toekenning van Prof Dolores Pérez MarínPerin, President van ICNIRS, and Marcel Plans Pujolras van BÜCHI.

Prof Marena Manley, from the Department of Food Science, has been named the 2025 recipient of the prestigious Tomas Hirschfeld Award (THA) by the International Council for Near Infrared Spectroscopy (ICNIRS) — making her the first South African to receive this honour. 

Funded by BÜCHI, the award was presented during the 22nd International Conference on Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIR2025) held in Rome, Italy, on 10 June.

A leading researcher in food science, Prof Manley has made significant contributions to the advancement of Near Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and hyperspectral imaging, particularly in cereal grain research. Since joining Stellenbosch University in 1997, she has supervised over 75 postgraduate students, published 135 peer-reviewed papers, and helped establish SU as a prominent NIR spectroscopy research hub in Africa.

Currently a full professor in SU’s Faculty of AgriSciences, Prof Manley has been instrumental in pioneering research focused on the characterisation of heterogeneous cereal samples using NIR spectroscopy and hyperspectral imaging. Her work has significantly influenced the understanding and application of these technologies in food and agricultural sciences.

She also played a vital role in the establishment of Africa’s only Vibrational Spectroscopy Unit equipped with advanced hyperspectral imaging capabilities. Her efforts have not only elevated Stellenbosch University’s global profile in this field but have also earned her international acclaim, as reflected in her impressive H-index of 39 (Scopus) and 47 (Google Scholar).

Prof Manley has served in various leadership roles within ICNIRS and continues to contribute actively to the global spectroscopy community. In addition to this international recognition, she has received several national accolades, including Stellenbosch University’s Chancellor’s Award (2022) for her excellence as both an educator and researcher — with particular recognition for her role in advancing NIR spectroscopy and hyperspectral imaging in South Africa and beyond.

Prof Marena Manley receives the Tomas Hirschfeld Award from Prof Dolores Pérez Marín, President of ICNIRS, and Marcel Plans Pujolras of BÜCHI.

Sonja Coertze en Elaine Basson (Plantsiektekliniek Stellenbosch, Departement Plantpatologie) is genooi om die Nasionale Biosekuriteitsberaad by te woon, wat op 10–11 Junie 2025 by die Hatfield-kampus, van die Universiteit van Pretoria, gehou is. Die tema van die beraad was “Samewerkende Aksies vir Voedselveiligheid en Handel”, en het verteenwoordigers van die regering, navorsingsinstellings en bedrywe byeengebring, met ’n fokus op beide plant- en diergesondheid. 

Die beraad het saamgeval met ’n tydperk waarin Suid-Afrika sukkel met verskeie uitbrake van dieresiektes—insluitend bek-en-klouseer, voëlgriep, en Afrika varkgriep — asook nuutgerapporteerde plantsiektes soos Goss’s verwelking van mielies (Clavibacter nebraskensis) en Phytophthora palmivora op verskeie gasheerplante (algemeen bekend as Phytophthora palmknopvrot). 

Die eerste dag van die program het ’n insiggewende en boeiende hoofrede deur Prof. Andrew Robinson van die Sentrum vir Uitnemendheid in Biosekuriteitsrisiko-analise (CEBRA) aan die Universiteit van Melbourne ingesluit. Sy toespraak het die belangrikheid van vertroue en kommunikasie tussen alle belanghebbendes in die landbousektor bevestig. Ander noemenswaardige sprekers was mnr. Wandile Sihlobo, hoofekonoom van die Landbou-sakekamer van Suid-Afrika, en die Minister van Landbou, mnr. John Steenhuisen. Die middag is afgesluit met ’n paneelbespreking met verteenwoordigers vanuit die plant- en dierbedrywe, met ’n fokus op samewerkende aksies vir voedselveiligheid en handel. 

Die tweede dag het bestaan uit werksessies oor verskeie onderwerpe, insluitend: 

• Openbare – private vennootskappe vir biosekuriteit 

• Die nasionale biosekuriteit-diagnostiese netwerk 

• Biosekuriteit-onderrig en -bewustheid 

• Marktoegang en -monitering 

 

Tydens die sessie oor die nasionale biosekuriteit-diagnostiese netwerk is daar bevestig dat diagnostiek van kritieke belang is om produksie te beskerm, nasionale voedselvoorsiening te verseker, en handel op plaaslike, streeks- en globale vlakke te ondersteun. Die belangrikheid van die opleiding van gekwalifiseerde plantpatoloë en die insluiting van plantgesondheid en biosekuriteit in leerplanne—veral in programme waar plantpatologie tans nie aangebied word nie—was ook ’n belangrike punt van bespreking. 

Die Nasionale Biosekuriteitshub (NBH), wat in 2022 deur die Suid-Afrikaanse regering van stapel gestuur is, fokus op drie kernareas:  

• Navorsing en monitering van plae en siektes 

• Ontwikkeling van diagnostiese en kwarantyndienste 

• Opleidings- en bewusmakingsprogramme 

Die Departement van Plantpatologie aan die Universiteit Stellenbosch belyn mooi met hierdie doelwitte, veral op die gebiede van plantgesondheid, diagnostiek en bou van kapasiteit. Dit bly een van die min tersiêre instellings waar studente in Plantpatologie kan spesialiseer en praktiese opleiding in plantdiagnostiek deur die Plantsiektekliniek Stellenbosch (PDC) kan ontvang.   Die PDC is die grootste plantdiagnostiese kliniek in die land en ontleed jaarliks meer as 1000 diagnostiese monsters van enige tipe gewas. 

Die Departement Plantpatologie en die PDC werk aktief saam met sleutelrolspelers in die landboubedryf soos CRI, Hortgro, Wyn SA, Berries ZA, GraanSA, en internasionale organisasies soos die FAO. Deur hierdie samewerking speel hulle reeds ’n belangrike rol in die versterking van Suid-Afrika se nasionale biosekuriteitsraamwerk, veral deur moniteringswerk. 

Dit word al hoe belangriker dat die Universiteit Stellenbosch en die Departement Plantpatologie hul verbintenis met die Nasionale Departement van Landbou (NDA) en die NBH versterk, veral om biosekuriteitsinisiatiewe in die suidelike streke van Suid-Afrika te ondersteun en te verbeter. Daarom het die Fakulteit AgriWetenskappe en die Departement Plantpatologie onlangs met hierdie entiteite in gesprek begin tree. Vennootskappe met die NDA en NBH sal waardevolle kennisuitruiling moontlik maak, befondsing verseker, en die implementering van doeltreffende biosekuriteitsmaatreëls ondersteun. 

Die Nationale Biosekuriteitsberaad het die noodsaaklike rol van biosekuriteit in die landbousektor beklemtoon, asook die samewerkende stappe wat tussen regering, navorsingsinstellings en die bedryf nodig is om Suid-Afrika se voedselstelsels te beskerm.

Van links na regs: 

Elaine Basson – Diagnostikus, Plantsiektekliniek (PDC), Departement Plantpatologie 

Dr. Marinda Visser – Direkteur van Strategiese Projekte en Vennootskappe in Landbou by UP se Innovation Africa; Koördineerder van die Nasionale Biosekuriteitshub 

Isabella Bezuidenhout – Biosekuriteit- en Fitosanitêre Spesialis, Nasionale Biosekuriteitshub 

Sonja Coertze – Bestuurder, Plantsiektekliniek (PDC), Departement Plantpatologie 

Prof. Andrew Robinson – Sentrum vir Uitnemendheid in Biosekuriteitsrisiko-analise (CEBRA), Universiteit van Melbourne, Australië 

Nolan Africander – Adjunkdirekteur: Plantkwarantyn en Diagnostiese Dienste, Nasionale Departement van Landbou. 

Sonja Coertze and Elaine Basson (Plant Disease Clinic Stellenbosch, Department of Plant Pathology) were invited to attend the National Biosecurity Summit, held on 10–11 June 2025 at the University of Pretoria’s Hatfield campus. The theme of the summit was “Collaborative Actions for Food Security and Trade”, and it brought together representatives from government, research institutions, and industry, with a focus on both plant and animal health. 

The summit coincided with a period in which South Africa is grappling with several animal disease outbreaks—including foot-and-mouth disease, avian influenza, and African swine fever—as well as newly reported plant diseases such as Goss’s wilt of maize (Clavibacter nebraskensis) and Phytophthora palmivora on various hosts (commonly referred to as Phytophthora palm bud rot). 

The first day of the program featured an insightful and engaging keynote address by Prof. Andrew Robinson from the Centre of Excellence for Biosecurity Risk Analysis (CEBRA) at the University of Melbourne. His talk reaffirmed the importance of trust and communication among all stakeholders in the agricultural sector. Other notable speakers included Mr. Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist of the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa, and the Minister of Agriculture, Mr. John Steenhuisen. The afternoon concluded with a panel discussion featuring representatives from the plant and animal industries, focusing on collaborative actions for food security and trade. 

The second day consisted of breakaway sessions on various topics, including: 

• Public–private partnerships for biosecurity 

• The national biosecurity diagnostic network 

• Biosecurity education and awareness 

• Market access and surveillance 

During the session on the national biosecurity diagnostic network, it was reaffirmed that diagnostics are critical for protecting production, ensuring national food security, and supporting trade at local, regional, and global levels. The importance of training qualified plant pathologists and incorporating plant health and biosecurity into curricula—especially in programs where plant pathology is not currently taught—was also emphasized during the session.   

The National Biosecurity Hub (NBH), launched by the South African government in 2022, focuses on three core areas: 

• Research and surveillance of pests and diseases 

• Development of diagnostic and quarantine services 

• Training and awareness programs 

The Department of Plant Pathology at Stellenbosch University aligns closely with these objectives, particularly in the domains of plant health, diagnostics, and capacity development. It remains one of the few tertiary institutions where students can major in Plant Pathology and receive hands-on training in plant diagnostics through the Plant Disease Clinic Stellenbosch (PDC). The PDC is the largest plant diagnostic clinic in the country, analysing more than 1000 diagnostic samples annually from any crop type. The department of Plant Pathology and the PDC actively collaborates with key agricultural industries such as CRI, Hortgro, Wine SA, Berries ZA, GrainSA, and international organizations like the FAO. Through these interactions they are already playing a vital role in strengthening South Africa’s national biosecurity framework, especially through surveillance work.  

It is increasingly important that Stellenbosch University and the Department of Plant Pathology strengthen their association with the National Department of Agriculture (NDA) and NBH, particularly to support and enhance biosecurity efforts in the southern regions of South Africa. Therefore, the Faculty of AgriSciences and the Department of Plant Pathology have recently started engagements with these entities. Partnerships with NDA and NBH will enable valuable knowledge exchange, secure funding, and support the implementation of effective biosecurity measures. 

This National Biosecurity Summit underscored the vital role of biosecurity in the agricultural sector and the collaborative steps needed across government, research institutions, and industry to safeguard South Africa’s food systems.  

 

(From left to right)

Elaine Basson – Diagnostician, Plant Disease Clinic (PDC), Department of Plant Pathology 

Dr. Marinda Visser – Director of Strategic Projects and Partnerships in Agriculture at UP’s Innovation Africa; Coordinator of the National Biosecurity Hub 

Isabella Bezuidenhout – Biosecurity and Phytosanitary Specialist, National Biosecurity Hub 

Sonja Coertze – Manager, Plant Disease Clinic (PDC), Department of Plant Pathology 

Prof. Andrew Robinson – Centre of Excellence for Biosecurity Risk Analysis (CEBRA), University of Melbourne 

Nolan Africander– Deputy Director Plant Quarantine and Diagnostic Services, National Department of Agriculture

Na die bekendstelling van die IMPACT OAL (Intensiewe Monitering van Aangeplante en Mededingende Bome Oop-Lug Laboratorium) deur die Hans Merensky-leerstoel in Gevorderde Modellering van Eucalyptus-Houtvorming (EucXylo), onder leiding van Prof. David M. Drew, het hierdie vlagskip-navorsingsplantasie ‘n gereelde spilpunt geword vir besoeke deur belanghebbendes, medewerkers en ander belangstellendes. Onlangs is twee internasionale gaste by die IMPACT OAL verwelkom: Dr Sam van Holsbeeck vanaf die Sunshine Coast Universiteit in Australië, en Prof Ben Spong vanaf Wes Virginia Universiteit, VSA. Prof Spong is vergesel deur drie entoesiastiese voorgraadse studente — Maddy, Jimmy en JJ — wat die geleentheid gehad het om bosbou-innovasie eerstehands te beleef. 

Dr van Holsbeeck, ‘n spesialis in geïntegreerde plaag-, siekte- en onkruidbestuur in bosbou, en Prof Spong, ‘n kenner in bosbou operasies, het met navorsers en studente by die IMPACT OAL in gesprek getree om gevorderde tegnologieë vir intensiewe boommonitering en dataversameling te verken. 

Hul besoek het ‘n waardevolle platform geskep vir kennisuitruiling en het aanleiding gegee tot betekenisvolle gesprekke oor die huidige uitdagings en innovasies in die bosbou-wetenskappe. Dit het ook die belangrikheid van wêreldwye samewerking in die bevordering van volhoubare bosbestuur beklemtoon. 

Die EucXylo-span het hul opgewondenheid uitgespreek oor die vooruitsigte van voortgesette samewerking met beide Dr van Holsbeeck en Prof Spong, en sien daarna uit om op hierdie momentum voort te bou en internasionale navorsingsbande in die toekoms te versterk.