The Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) Distinguished Visiting Scholar (DVS) Programme brings internationally recognised scholars to South African universities to promote research collaboration, intellectual exchange and public engagement with science.
The lecture was delivered by Professor Lindiwe Sibanda, a Zimbabwean-born food systems scientist, policy advocate and global leader in sustainable agriculture. She is widely recognised as one of Africa’s foremost experts on sustainable food systems, bridging science, policy and practice to ensure that agriculture and food systems support both people and the environment. Her work focuses on connecting farmers, research and decision-makers, keeping smallholder voices central to global discussions on agriculture and food security.
During her lecture, Professor Sibanda explored the importance of sustainable food systems in addressing Africa’s food challenges. She emphasised the need for nature-positive food production that reduces environmental emissions while promoting sustainable farming practices such as minimal soil tillage, maintaining ground cover and implementing crop rotation.
She also highlighted the role of science in strengthening resilience within communities, noting that scientific advances can help societies recover from climate shocks such as drought while supporting equitable livelihoods through agriculture and food systems.
“If Africa gets the food challenge right, we will stabilise health, strengthen climate resilience, create jobs and restore dignity, because we will no longer rely on others to feed us. We will produce food that nourishes both our bodies and our environment,” she said.
UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, reflected on the importance of the ASSAf programme in addressing the food crisis in South Africa.
Professor Sibanda stressed that achieving sustainable agriculture requires strong stewardship of natural resources and supportive policy frameworks.
“For us to do agriculture right, as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals, we must be good stewards of our soils and address the energy and water challenges. Science, technology adoption by farmers and the right policy environment are all critical,” she explained.
She added that academic research should be communicated in ways that are accessible to broader communities so that knowledge can inform public decision-making and practical solutions.
Professor Sibanda also noted the importance of strengthening livestock systems in Africa while maintaining a focus on both human and planetary health. Sustainable food systems, she said, should prioritise diet quality and nutrition rather than simply increasing food quantity.
“We can only bounce back better if we nurture our soil and environment. Climate-smart crops are nutrient-dense and resilient, yet they are not produced in sufficient quantities,” she said.
Youth, agriculture and food systems
Professor Sibanda further highlighted the role of youth in transforming agriculture and food systems, noting that agro-processing and innovation can create significant employment opportunities.
She encouraged researchers and universities to take an active role in shaping policy by generating evidence and empowering communities affected by food insecurity to advocate for solutions.
“My proposed intervention is that everyone must become a seed of change. Researchers must generate evidence and equip those affected by the problem – farmers and communities – to engage with policymakers and influence decisions,” she said.
Professor Sibanda emphasised that sustainable agriculture depends on responsible resource management and supportive policy frameworks.
She also emphasised the importance of platforms that bring together scientists, policymakers and diplomats to collectively consider future food systems and the research needed to address challenges over the next 25 years.
According to Professor Sibanda, addressing food security requires breaking disciplinary silos and embracing transdisciplinary approaches that combine science, policy and community engagement.
She further called on universities to rethink their academic offerings to respond to global challenges such as climate change, nutrition, agricultural innovation and entrepreneurship.
“We are no longer training students only to become farmers but to become employers. By developing technologies and innovations, graduates can start their own businesses. Universities are vital centres for education, community trust and societal change,” she said.
Strengthening scientific dialogue
UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa said the ASSAf programme plays an important role in strengthening scientific dialogue and collaboration in South Africa, noting that since its establishment in 1996, the Academy of Science of South Africa has contributed significantly to building an inclusive and vibrant scientific community.
“This scholar programme brings distinguished thinkers into our institutions and ensures that our academic conversations remain bold, relevant and evidence-based,” she said.
Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences Dean, Professor Ndiko Ludidi.
Professor Meyiwa further added that public lectures create spaces for interdisciplinary engagement and encourage institutions to explore innovative responses to global challenges such as food insecurity.
“The public lecture reminds us to think differently about solutions. In today’s world, collaboration across disciplines is essential if we are to respond effectively to the food crisis,” she said.
The event concluded with a formal dinner attended by academics and researchers, including Professor Christine Wick from the University of Hohenheim, who serves as the principal investigator and leader of the DVS programme, and Professor Korsten from the University of Pretoria, who is both a director at the Centre of Excellence in Food Security and president of the African Academy of Sciences.
Story by Lisa Thabethe. Pictures by JB Creative Cinema. Copyright © UMP.