The award celebrates the group’s project, “Ethnobotanical insights into medicinal plants for managing childhood diseases and promoting wellbeing in South Africa”, which explores how indigenous plants can be used to improve child health while promoting biodiversity conservation and safeguarding traditional knowledge.
“This is more than recognition,” Dr Ndhlovu said. “It inspires us to continue exploring indigenous flora with renewed energy. Our work contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing) by promoting plant-based healthcare for children, and Goal 15 (Life on Land) by supporting biodiversity conservation and the sustainable use of indigenous plants.”
The research, conducted in collaboration with postgraduate students and fellow researchers, has documented numerous plant species across several provinces, including Mpumalanga, expanding the indigenous pharmacopoeia and strengthening child healthcare through affordable and accessible plant-based remedies.
By drawing attention to plants that have historically been used in South African ethnomedicine, the project seeks to provide sustainable healthcare solutions in communities where communicable diseases and malnutrition remain leading causes of childhood mortality.
Advancing Indigenous Knowledge
Dr Ndhlovu explained that his passion is rooted in personal experience: “I have always been fascinated by the deep cultural connections people have with plants and their untapped scientific potential. Ethnobotanical research allows me to connect indigenous knowledge with modern science, preserving cultural heritage while uncovering innovative solutions for health and environmental sustainability.”
Presenting on a global platform in Naples was both humbling and rewarding. The conference provided invaluable opportunities to exchange ideas, receive feedback, and engage with experts from around the world.
“Standing among international researchers, I felt immense pride in representing the University of Mpumalanga and showcasing the richness of African indigenous knowledge,” Dr Ndhlovu reflected. “The award has also enhanced the visibility of UMP’s contribution to global knowledge systems, highlighting the university’s growing impact in research and innovation.”
He further mentioned that the recognition has not only raised the international profile of the research but also opened doors for further collaborations, partnerships, and funding opportunities.
“It has encouraged greater participation among UMP’s postgraduate students, who are actively involved in collecting, documenting, and analysing plant species. Collaboration is the heartbeat of our research,” Dr Ndhlovu noted. “From data collection to analysis and interpretation, our collective effort has been central to the success of the project.”
The research team hopes to expand their studies to cover more communities and integrate their findings into practical healthcare strategies. Their goal is to develop solutions that are not only scientifically sound but also culturally appropriate, ensuring that indigenous knowledge continues to play a vital role in modern healthcare systems.
Dr Ndhlovu encourages students and emerging researchers to embrace indigenous knowledge systems: “Our biodiversity and cultural heritage are treasures waiting to be explored. By combining traditional wisdom with innovative science, we can create solutions that are locally meaningful and globally relevant.”
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures Supplied. Copyright ©UMP