Puleng Mashamaite presenting her award-winning research poster during SASAS 55th congress. Photo: Linah Raphela
By Rinae Manenzhe – ulpublications@ul.ac.za
Animal science is crucial to food security, livelihoods, and biodiversity. Recognising its growing relevance in a rapidly changing world, the University of Limpopo (UL), in collaboration with the University of Venda (UNIVEN), and the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD), hosted the 55th South African Society of Animal Science (SASAS) Annual Congress in Polokwane, marking the first time the event was held in Limpopo Province
The congress brought together researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers to explore sustainable livestock–wildlife coexistence across Africa’s diverse ecosystems. Held under the theme “Thriving in Diverse Environments: Optimised Innovations and Resilience in Livestock–Wildlife Interactions”, the event emphasised the need to balance livestock productivity with biodiversity conservation and socio-economic development.
More than 300 delegates from South Africa and neighbouring countries attended, signalling a growing interest in the future of animal agriculture amid climate variability, market shifts, and changing consumer demands. Of the 249 abstracts submitted, 224 were accepted, reflecting the high academic standards upheld by UL’s Prof Obert Tada’s leadership as the Local Organising Committee Chairperson.
The dynamic scientific programme featured oral and poster presentations on cutting-edge topics such as AI, genetic adaptation, precision livestock farming, animal health, and reproductive physiology. Exhibitions showcased tools and technologies shaping the livestock sector. UL’s Quiz Team, composed of final-year BSc (Animal Production) students, placed third out of 16 teams nationally.
Keynote speaker Prof Cuthbeth Banga from the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources called for context-specific solutions in dairy production, including heat-tolerant breeds and sustainable feed systems. “Milk is a significant source of life and livelihoods. Demand is growing faster than most other animal-sourced foods,” he noted.
UL made a strong showing with 19 posters and six oral presentations. PhD candidate at UL Puleng Mashamaite, won first prize for her research on the milk yield and reproductive efficiency of British Alpine goats across agro-ecological zones. MSc candidate at UL Hypatia Thobejane secured third place in the Animal Nutrition poster category, while master’s student Tshepo Matshebuka presented work on phenotypic plasticity in Toggenburg goats. “It helps farmers predict which environments suit different goat breeds for optimal productivity,” he explained.
Outgoing SASAS President Dr Trevor Dugmore announced strategic priorities to revitalise the organisation and increase member participation.
Dr Queen Mabunda, Chief Director at LDARD, underscored the need for innovations that support sustainability. “Together, we can create a future where animal production thrives in harmony with the environment and human well-being.”
UL’s Acting DVC for Research, Innovation, and Partnerships, Prof Tebogo Mothiba, highlighted the congress’s significance. “This is not just another congress, it’s a declaration that African excellence is alive. The resolutions adopted here will advance animal sciences and inform impactful practices across the continent.”
The event also highlighted partnerships that connect academic learning with real-world application. Emmanuel Mudau from Mathuba Genetics outlined how the organisation supports student training and development. “We provide practical experience for university and college students, as well as learners in grades 10 to 12 studying agricultural science,” he explained. Through mentorship in areas such as small stock farming, animal nutrition, and health, the initiative equips learners with valuable hands-on skills and industry-relevant knowledge.
For many, the congress was both informative and inspiring. Angelinah Thema, a PhD candidate at UKZN, remarked, “Attending the SASAS conference as a returning attendee was important. There are always new innovations to learn from fellow students, researchers, and keynote speakers.”