Why it matters
Timely identification of pests and diseases is critical to protecting crop yields and producer livelihoods. This project, based at the Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), provides expert pest and disease diagnostic services to all grain and oilseed producers in South Africa. By offering free pest and disease diagnostic services, building a reference collection of crop pathogens, and developing Bt resistance monitoring tools, the project is helping producers respond faster to threats and improve on-farm decision-making.
Research approach
The project runs a dedicated diagnostic clinic for grain and oilseed pests and diseases, providing expert sample analysis and field support. Technicians and extension officers conduct field surveys, collect samples, and assist producers in identifying problems. A smartphone app allows farmers and field staff to submit samples directly, while real-time data is stored in a centralised database to track pest and disease trends. In addition, a national Bt resistance monitoring program tracks maize pests across sentinel sites. The project also maintains a growing culture collection of key fungal pathogens and trains students, interns, and technicians to build long-term capacity.
Research impact to farmers
Producers benefit from rapid diagnoses of crop issues, helping them take the right action quickly, saving crops, time, and money. The project’s data and tools support smarter decisions and early warnings for disease or pest outbreaks. As new threats emerge this initiative ensures producers have access to up-to-date knowledge and advice. Through training, outreach at events like NAMPO, and easy access to services via mobile tools, producers across South Africa, including those in remote areas, are gaining the support they need to protect yields and build resilience.
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Collaborators & research leads with the collaborative institutions: on the side
- Prof Cobus Visagie, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria
- Dr David Read, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria
- Prof Bernard Slippers Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria
- Mr Matthew Jackson, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria
- Mr Lawrence Mataha, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria
- Mr Johan Cilliers, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria
- Ms Annah Boreni, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria
- Dr Lieschen De Vos, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria