The South African Sugar Research Institute (SASRI) marked a major milestone — 100 years of groundbreaking research and innovation — with a prestigious centenary celebration at Mount Edgecombe on Tuesday, 15 July.
Held under the theme “A Century of Achievement, a Future of Possibilities,” the event reflected on SASRI’s basis of establishment — that is, to provide scientific solutions for mitigating the adverse impacts of pests, diseases, and agro-climatic challenges on sugarcane yields. Over the years, SASRI has developed new varieties, technologies, and knowledge to support local sugarcane production. These achievements have been instrumental to the sustainable growth and development of sugarcane growers and industry.
This centenary also celebrates SASRI’s rich legacy of advancing agricultural science, supporting product diversification, and promoting sustainability in one of South Africa’s most vital agri-processing sectors.
The day began with an engaging Agricultural Fair, where SASRI scientists showcased their cutting-edge work across various disciplines. Guests had the opportunity to explore innovative displays and learn more about the institute’s research on pest control, crop resilience, plant health and breeding.
Delegates were then taken on a guided walking tour of key research facilities, including the Quarantine Glasshouse facility, the Plant Breeding facility, the NovaCane® tissue culture lab, and the BT1 trial site, each offering a behind-the-scenes look into SASRI’s research engine.
The formal event brought together a host of distinguished guests, retired researchers, grower associations, and industry leaders. A slideshow presentation titled “SASRI: Past, Present, Future” played in the background, capturing highlights from the institute’s century-long journey.
The programme opened with the singing of the national anthem; whereafter the Master of Ceremonies, Cedric Mboyisa, presided over the proceedings. First was a welcome address by SASA Executive Director Sifiso Mhlaba. Reflections on SASRI’s past were shared by former SASA Executive Director Trix Trikam and past SASRI Director Dr Carolyn Baker, setting the tone for a day of acknowledging and recognising the organisation’s scientific contributions with nostalgia and forward-looking optimism.
Industry voices added weight to the occasion, with Sugarcane Research and Sustainable Agriculture committee (SRASA) Chairperson Rex Talmage, SASMA’s (South African Sugar Millers’ Association) Rolf Lütge, (South African Cane Growers’ Association) SACGA’s Higgins Mdluli, and SAFDA’s (South African Farmers Development Association) Mdu Shabane each offering words of support and recognition. SASA Council Chair Fay Mukaddam also addressed attendees, before handing over to keynote speaker, former Statistician General of South Africa and respected economist Prof. Pali Lehohla. Thereafter SASRI Research Manager Dr Riekert van Heerden discussed SASRI’s current structure and Programme of Work.
The celebration closed with words of thanks from SASRI Director Dr Shadrack Moephuli, who acknowledged the institute’s dedicated staff and stakeholders for their role in achieving a century of excellence. He also provided brief insight/s into the future scientific endeavors.
