Agricultural Research Council

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The Agricultural Research Council is a premier science institution that conducts research with partners, develops human capital and fosters innovation to support and develop the agricultural sector.

The Agricultural Research Council congratulates Dr Lerato Bame Matsaunyane on being recognised by the Mail & Guardian Po...
02/10/2026

The Agricultural Research Council congratulates Dr Lerato Bame Matsaunyane on being recognised by the Mail & Guardian Power of Women 2026 in the Agriculture category.

Her recognition reflects a career dedicated to agricultural research and to ensuring that science translates into meaningful opportunities for farmers and communities. From smallholder development and farmer support to mentorship, partnerships and advancing women and youth in agriculture, her work continues to connect research with the people and systems it is intended to serve.

We are proud to see one of our own recognised on a national platform celebrating women making a meaningful contribution to South Africa.

, ARC

| Impact and OutcomesYield matters. But today, yield alone is not enough.For small grain producers, a successful harve...
02/10/2026

| Impact and Outcomes

Yield matters. But today, yield alone is not enough.

For small grain producers, a successful harvest depends on more than simply planting a high-yielding cultivar. Small-grain crops are grown in diverse environments and are influenced by diseases and pests, weeds, soil conditions and crop management, all of which can affect yield and grain quality.

For producers, high yield is a priority. However, it is not the only consideration when choosing a cultivar. Adaptation to production environments, grain quality, and the ability to withstand diseases, pests and other production challenges are also important.

The Agricultural Research Council – Small Grain (ARC-SG) breeding programme focuses on developing cultivars that combine high yield with grain quality, disease and pest resistance, and adaptation to South Africa’s diverse production environments.

Our research has led to the release of spring wheat cultivars, including Kwartel, Ratel, Steenbok and Tredou (2011), the irrigation cultivars Usutu, Selons and Umgeni (2019–2020), followed by the dryland winter wheat cultivar Mkuze and the oat cultivar Piketberg (2022).

ARC-SG also provides the Small Grain Production Guidelines free of charge to producers. The guidelines provide information on cultivar performance from different breeding institutions and are available on the ARC-SG website. This helps producers choose cultivars suited to their production conditions and manage production risks.

Through research, cultivar development and knowledge sharing, ARC-SG is helping small grain producers make informed decisions that go beyond yield and support better production outcomes.

ARCTellingOurStories | Knowledge ShareAs part of its ongoing efforts to share knowledge and strengthen collaboration, AR...
01/10/2026

ARCTellingOurStories | Knowledge Share

As part of its ongoing efforts to share knowledge and strengthen collaboration, ARC VIMP conducted a Sweet Potato Harvesting Training, Breeding Evaluation Trial and Farmers’ Day at the University of Zululand’s KwaDlangezwa Campus.

The activities formed part of a multi environment trial assessing advanced sweet potato breeding clones for their adaptability and suitability across diverse environments. The trial supports the identification and selection of promising clones suited to the warm subtropical production areas of South Africa.

Participants also had an opportunity to taste a range of products made from orange fleshed sweet potato, including juice, jam and steamed bread, showcasing some of the ways these varieties can be used beyond fresh consumption.

| People of the ARCFrom Pathogens to Platforms: Dr Arshad Mather’s Journey in Agricultural ScienceFor over two decades...
30/09/2026

| People of the ARC

From Pathogens to Platforms: Dr Arshad Mather’s Journey in Agricultural Science

For over two decades, Dr Mather has dedicated his career to turning science into impact. Much of his scientific career was spent at ARC-Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, where he worked on livestock diseases such as Lumpy Skin Disease (L*D), Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP) and Rift Valley fever. These diseases are major threats to animal health and agricultural livelihoods across Africa.

Through applied research in genomics, vaccine development and diagnostics, he has contributed to projects aimed at improving disease surveillance, prevention and control. These experiences taught him that behind every laboratory result is a farmer relying on healthy animals and productive farming systems.

His role in agriculture extends beyond research. He has contributed to scientific governance, biotechnology regulation and agricultural community development through various national committees and organisations. As a founder of the African Muslim Farmers Association (AMFA), a non-governmental organisation, and Chairperson of the National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT) Scientific Advisory Committee, he has worked to bridge the gaps between science, agriculture, food systems and community needs.

These roles have reinforced the importance of ensuring that innovation remains relevant, responsible and accessible.

Today, as Senior Manager at the ARC Biotechnology Platform, Dr Mather is shaping the future of agricultural research by building genomics, bioinformatics and biotechnology capabilities that empower scientists across South Africa.

As he says: “For me, the ARC is more than a workplace. It is a place where science becomes impact and where people work together to make a meaningful difference.”

Inspiring the Next Generation of Agricultural Scientists! The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) – Planting Health Prot...
30/09/2026

Inspiring the Next Generation of Agricultural Scientists!

The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) – Planting Health Protection (PHP) was pleased to host students from the University of Venda for an exciting career exposure programme aimed at introducing students to the diverse career opportunities within agricultural research and plant health.

During their visit, the students were introduced to various units within PHP, including Biosystematics, Plant Microbiology, and the Weeds Division. They had the opportunity to engage with researchers and technical staff, gain insight into different career paths, and learn about the important role of plant health research in supporting sustainable agriculture and food security.

The programme practical activities, presentations, demonstrations, and interactive sessions, allowing students to connect classroom knowledge with real-world applications in agricultural research.

We are proud to contribute to developing and inspiring the next generation of scientists, researchers, and agricultural professionals.

Thank you to the University of Venda students and staff for visiting ARC-PHP. We wish you continued success in your academic and professional journeys!

ARC at the Diepsloot Career & Entrepreneurship Expo 2026The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) participated in the 1st ...
29/09/2026

ARC at the Diepsloot Career & Entrepreneurship Expo 2026

The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) participated in the 1st Annual Diepsloot Career and Entrepreneurship Expo on 23 September 2026, hosted at Muzomuhle Primary School in Diepsloot.

ARC Human Resources Capital and ARC-Animal Production (ARC-AP) exhibited at the Expo, sharing information about the ARC and the different career and study opportunities available within agriculture, science and research.

The Expo was aimed at school learners and young people exploring their future career options, giving them access to organisations offering education, training and development opportunities.

| People of the ARCMeet David Netshiongolwe, Senior Research Technician at ARC-OVR: EPV Blood Vaccine Production David...
23/09/2026

| People of the ARC

Meet David Netshiongolwe, Senior Research Technician at ARC-OVR: EPV Blood Vaccine Production

David’s passion for animal health began when he was a young herd boy, where he saw first-hand how proper care could change an animal’s life. Today, he plays an important role in herd management and the production of live blood vaccines against tick-borne diseases, including Anaplasmosis, African and Asiatic Redwater, and Heartwater.

“What I enjoy most is the hands-on medical care and seeing a critical patient turn the corner. There is no better feeling than nursing a very sick animal back to health.”

David’s journey at the ARC has also included an ARC bursary that enabled him to further his studies, followed by his promotion to Senior Research Technician through succession planning.

For David, the work is not just about technical skills. It is about patience, empathy and knowing that the vaccines he helps produce can protect livestock across the country.

The Agricultural Research Council (ARC–VIMP) participated in the Potato Planting Demonstration Day hosted by Mohube en S...
23/09/2026

The Agricultural Research Council (ARC–VIMP) participated in the Potato Planting Demonstration Day hosted by Mohube en Seuns Vervoer.

It was a great day of knowledge sharing and getting hands-on in the field. The demonstrations gave participants a practical look at the potato planting process, covering soil preparation, seed planting and good planting practices.

Hands-on demonstrations like these help turn knowledge into practical skills, supporting farmers with the tools and understanding needed for productive farming.

| Field & FarmHoneybush Research | ARC Infruitec-NietvoorbijFrom a wild indigenous plant to a cultivated crop and a di...
22/09/2026

| Field & Farm

Honeybush Research | ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij

From a wild indigenous plant to a cultivated crop and a distinctive South African tea, Honeybush is a story of science, tradition and opportunity.

Honeybush occurs naturally only in South Africa and has long been used as both a beverage and medicinal plant. Through research at ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij, the ARC has helped develop knowledge and technologies for cultivating, harvesting and processing Honeybush to meet quality standards.

This research has given farmers practical guidance on everything from species selection, seed germination and plant production to harvesting and processing. Through technology transfer and hands-on training, the ARC has also supported farmers and communities in moving Honeybush from wild harvesting into cultivation.

Today, Honeybush can be cultivated, sustainably harvested and processed into value-added products, creating opportunities for farmers and communities while contributing to a growing South African tea industry.

From seedling to harvest, research is helping take Honeybush from the field to the teapot.

| Research in FocusStrengthening the Poultry Value ChainThe ARC Animal Production Meat Technology Chicken Trials proje...
21/09/2026

| Research in Focus

Strengthening the Poultry Value Chain

The ARC Animal Production Meat Technology Chicken Trials project supports small-scale indigenous poultry farmers by strengthening production, improving meat quality and food safety, and promoting value addition. Through a powerful combination of research, technology transfer and practical training, the project equips farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to improve their businesses, strengthen food security and gain access to formal markets.

Indigenous chickens are an important source of food, nutrition and income for many rural and peri-urban households. Yet, despite their economic and social value, many small-scale farmers still rely on informal backyard slaughter practices, which can compromise animal welfare, food safety and the quality of poultry products. Research conducted through the project has highlighted critical gaps in knowledge, skills and infrastructure that continue to limit farmers’ ability to participate in higher-value markets.

The Chicken Trials project is helping to bridge these gaps by bringing research and practical solutions directly to farmers. Through hands-on training and the transfer of appropriate technologies, farmers are empowered to adopt improved production and slaughter practices, enhance meat quality and safety, and explore opportunities for value addition.

The impact extends beyond the farm. By enabling farmers to produce safer, higher-quality poultry products and access more formal and lucrative markets, the project contributes to stronger livelihoods, improved household nutrition and greater economic resilience. It also demonstrates how research, when translated into practical solutions and shared with farming communities, can become a powerful catalyst for rural development.

At its heart, the Chicken Trials project is about more than improving poultry production, it is about unlocking the potential of indigenous chickens as a pathway to food security, enterprise development and sustainable livelihoods, while helping small-scale farmers build stronger rural economies.

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1134 Park Street, Hatfield
Pretoria
0001

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Monday 07:30 - 16:00
Tuesday 07:30 - 16:00
Wednesday 07:30 - 16:00
Thursday 07:30 - 16:00
Friday 07:30 - 16:00

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+27124279700

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