Research committee in Mpumalanga evaluates 14 agriculture projects for new financial year

Agricultural experts and members of the Mpumalanga Agricultural Research Committee (MARC) convened for a two-day meeting on June 18 and 19 to evaluate research projects proposed for the 2026/27 financial year.
During the first day of the meeting, participants reviewed a range of research projects covering crop and animal production, aquaculture, and other agricultural disciplines. Discussions highlighted the importance of research in supporting small-scale farmers to improve productivity and strengthen food security.

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Researchers from across Mpumalanga presented their proposed projects and received feedback from committee members. MARC provided guidance on areas requiring refinement and encouraged researchers to ensure their studies remain innovative while upholding the integrity of the research approval process.

MARC comprises experts from the Agricultural Research Council, the national Department of Agriculture, the University of Mpumalanga, Statistics South Africa, and the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs.

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On the second day of the meeting, the committee continued its deliberations with further engagements involving researchers, often regarded as the foot soldiers of agricultural innovation. The committee also reviewed and approved three close-out reports on completed research projects, subject to a few final recommendations before formal approval.

A total of 14 research projects were presented and thoroughly scrutinised by the committee.

As part of its mandate, MARC provided constructive guidance to ensure the quality and credibility of the studies, which are intended to contribute to the department’s annual performance plan.