The subject group Botany at the North-West University (NWU) marked the International Day of Plant Health with a public lecture that highlighted the critical role healthy plants play in food security, environmental sustainability and human well-being.
Held on 28 May 2026, the lecture formed part of the commitment of the department to community engagement and scientific awareness. The event provided a platform for students, staff and members of the broader community to engage with experts on the challenges and innovations shaping plant health today.
The International Day of Plant Health, observed globally each year, draws attention to the importance of protecting plants from pests, diseases and environmental threats. Healthy plants are essential for producing food, supporting livelihoods, maintaining biodiversity and sustaining ecosystems.
The keynote presentation, titled “Hidden Battles Plants Fight Every Day: Pests and Diseases”, was delivered by Kearabilwe Mogwera from the subject group Crop Science. Her presentation explored the impact of pests and diseases on agricultural production and outlined practical approaches to plant health management.
“Healthy plants produce better yields, improve crop quality and contribute to food security. Good plant health management is essential for sustainable agricultural production,” said Kearabilwe.
She explained that effective plant health management includes proper irrigation practices, responsible fertiliser use, crop rotation, regular field monitoring and integrated pest management strategies. She also highlighted the importance of early detection and prevention in reducing crop losses caused by pests and diseases.
According to Prof. Tshegofatso Dikobe, head of the subject group Botany, the event reflects the broader commitment of the department to connecting scientific knowledge with societal needs.
“Plant health affects every aspect of human life – from the food we eat to the health of our ecosystems. Through initiatives such as this public lecture, we aim to raise awareness about the importance of protecting plant resources, while inspiring greater interest in plant sciences among students and the broader community,” said Prof. Dikobe.
The lecture further explored disease management strategies, including sanitation practices, crop rotation, biological control methods and the responsible use of chemical treatments. Participants also had an opportunity to engage with experts during discussion sessions focused on emerging challenges in plant protection.
The event reinforced the role of the NWU as a hub for knowledge-sharing and community engagement, while highlighting the importance of collective action in protecting plant life. As global food systems face increasing pressure from climate change, pests and diseases, the message from the lecture was clear: healthy plants remain fundamental to a healthy planet and a sustainable future.
