Newsroom - Mafikeng Campus

Using plant growth-promoting microorganisms to address food sustainability

Maize production and mining are essential for the economy of the North West Province, and researchers at the North-West University (NWU) are now looking at how microorganisms can protect maize from climate challenges and mining by-products.

Prof Olubukola Oluranti Babalola and two PhD graduates, Saheed Adekunle Akinola and Dr Ayansina Segun Ayangbenro, recently published research articles looking at the benefits and essential services provided by plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPM) for sustainable maize production in the province.

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What the partial independence of the Transnet National Ports Authority means

President Cyril Ramaphosa, together with Minister of Public Enterprises Pravin Gordhan and Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula, announced on 22 June 2021 the establishment of the National Ports Authority as an independent, wholly-owned subsidiary of Transnet in terms of the National Ports Act, 12 of 2005.

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Getting the Constitution to work for street traders

While the informal economy is lifting hundreds of thousands of people out of poverty, several municipal by-laws hinder the growth of their businesses, and – to some extent – allow for the violation of their rights. A researcher from the North-West University (NWU) believes a possible solution for the protection and development of this sector lies in the Constitution.

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Tree plantations are harming ecosystems

Replacing native forests with tree plantations is harming the soil at a microbial level by having an impact on soil fertility and the health of the planet.

This is one of the conclusions of North-West University (NWU) academic Prof Olubukola Oluranti Babalola – who along with Dr Adenike Eunice Amoo – recently conducted ground-breaking research to investigate the impact of land-use change on soil bacterial communities and characteristics.

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