Natural and Agricultural Sciences News

Study shows how poultry farmers can reduce antibiotics and protect public health

A study by researchers at the North-West University (NWU) shows that it is possible for poultry farmers to reduce the use of antibiotics and still produce safe food.

The research finds that using less reliance on dietary antibiotics can help protect people, animals and the…

Indigenous foods still shape diets in Mahikeng communities

Pumpkin leaves, sorghum porridge and bone marrow remain on the menu in parts of Mahikeng, even as younger generations drift toward processed foods. A new study by Modjadji Mandy Rasehlomi, a North-West University (NWU) master’s student, found that indigenous foods continue to support dietary…

Indigenous livestock remedies draw scientific backing in North West study

In villages across North West, livestock owners still turn to roots, bulbs and leaves to treat infections, wounds and reproductive problems in cattle, goats and sheep. A new study now shows that several of those remedies used by Batswana traditional healers and farmers also carry measurable antioxidant properties…

Student uses poetry to address gender-based violence and mental health

A student from the North-West University (NWU) Mahikeng Campus is using poetry and storytelling to address gender-based violence, mental health and youth development while building his profile in the literary space of South Africa.

Bokamoso Edward Nkunyane, originally from Taung,…

Indigenous foods remain a lifeline in Moshana as food insecurity grows

In the Moshana community of North West, food security is still tied to the land, wild plants and livestock practices passed down across generations. While food prices rise and rural households face pressure from drought and unemployment, indigenous foods continue to feed families and help communities cope when…

Students shine in global FameLab science communication competition

The North-West University (NWU) continues to celebrate academic excellence and innovation, as students from the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (FNAS) and the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) distinguished themselves in the globally recognised FameLab competition.

Former NWU Soccer Institute player earns PhD, follows path set by institute manager

What started on the football field nearly two decades ago has now produced another doctoral graduate for the North-West University (NWU) Soccer Institute. Former player and current team manager Dr Lawrence Koagile Mosala has obtained his PhD in computer and information sciences with information systems.

Farm manager highlights cross-border cooperation in fight against FMD

As foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) continues to threaten livestock production across Southern Africa, vaccination efforts along the South Africa-Botswana border are emerging as one of the region’s frontline defences against the spread of the virus.

In communities near border towns…

Harnessed energy offers a new path for smallholder poultry farmers

Smallholder poultry farmers who adopt harnessed energy systems such as solar and wind power could improve production efficiency and reduce long-term operational costs, according to research conducted by Ella Mogashoa during her master’s study at the North-West University (NWU).

The…

Floods expose shortcomings in North West disaster response systems

Heavy floods that cut off roads, bridges and communities across the North West Province have exposed gaps in disaster preparedness, emergency response capacity and long-term planning, according to Prof. Christo Coetzee.

While the province has disaster management plans in place across most district and local municipalities, many of…