THE South African Sugar Research Institute (SASRI) marked a significant milestone – 100 years of groundbreaking research and innovation – with a prestigious centenary celebration at the institute at Mount Edgecombe in Durban, on 15 July.
The event’s theme was “A Century of Achievements, a Future of Possibilities,” and reflected on SASRI’s rich legacy of advancing agricultural science, supporting product diversification, and promoting sustainability in one of South Africa’s most important agri-processing sectors.
SASRI shared online that 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.
During the formal lunch, sponsored by Illovo Sugar South Africa: Downstream Sugar, a slideshow presentation, titled “SASRI: Past, Present, Future,” played in the background, capturing highlights from the institute’s century-long journey.
Master of ceremonies Cedric Mboyisa led the programme, which included a welcome address by South African Sugar Association 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 both nostalgia and forward-looking optimism.
Industry voices added weight to the occasion, with Sugarcane Research and Sustainable Agriculture committee chairperson Rex Talmage, South African Sugar Millers’ Association’s Rolf Lütge, South African Cane Growers’ Association’s Higgins Mdluli, and the South African Farmers Development Association’s 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 of South Africa and respected economist Prof. Pali Lehohla, whose address was sponsored by Umfolozi Sugar Mill.
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 driving a century of excellence.
