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21 pages, 1562 KiB  
Review
Electrospun Molecularly Imprinted Polymers for Environmental Remediation: A Mini Review
by Sisonke Sigonya, Bakang Mo Mothudi, Olayemi J. Fakayode, Teboho C. Mokhena, Paul Mayer, Thabang H. Mokhothu, Talent R. Makhanya and Katekani Shingange
Polymers 2025, 17(15), 2082; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17152082 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 253
Abstract
This review critically examines the recent advancements in the development and application of electrospun molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) nanofiber membranes for environmental remediation. Emphasizing the significance of these materials, the discussion highlights the mechanisms by which electrospun MIPs achieve high selectivity and efficiency [...] Read more.
This review critically examines the recent advancements in the development and application of electrospun molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) nanofiber membranes for environmental remediation. Emphasizing the significance of these materials, the discussion highlights the mechanisms by which electrospun MIPs achieve high selectivity and efficiency in removing various pollutants, including dyes, heavy metals, and pharmaceutical residues such as NSAIDs and antiretroviral drugs. The synthesis methodologies are explored in detail, focusing on the choice of monomers, templates, and polymerization conditions that influence the structural and functional properties of the membranes. Characterization techniques used to assess morphology, surface area, porosity, and imprinting efficacy are also examined, providing insights into how these parameters affect adsorption performance. Furthermore, the review evaluates the performance metrics of electrospun MIPs, including adsorption capacities, selectivity, reusability, and stability in complex environmental matrices. Practical considerations, such as scalability, regeneration, and long-term operational stability, are discussed to assess their potential for real-world applications. The article concludes with an outline of future research directions, emphasizing the need for multi-template imprinting, integration with existing treatment technologies, and field-scale validation to address current limitations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Smart and Functional Polymers)
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26 pages, 7164 KiB  
Article
Evapotranspiration Partitioning in Selected Subtropical Fruit Tree Orchards Based on Sentinel 2 Data Using a Light Gradient-Boosting Machine (LightGBM) Learning Model in Malelane, South Africa
by Prince Dangare, Zama E. Mashimbye, Paul J. R. Cronje, Joseph N. Masanganise, Shaeden Gokool, Zanele Ntshidi, Vivek Naiken, Tendai Sawunyama and Sebinasi Dzikiti
Hydrology 2025, 12(7), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrology12070189 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 488
Abstract
The accurate estimation of evapotranspiration (ET) and its components are vital for water resource management and irrigation planning. This study models tree transpiration (T) and ET for grapefruit, litchi, and mango orchards using light gradient-boosting machine (LightGBM) [...] Read more.
The accurate estimation of evapotranspiration (ET) and its components are vital for water resource management and irrigation planning. This study models tree transpiration (T) and ET for grapefruit, litchi, and mango orchards using light gradient-boosting machine (LightGBM) optimized using the Bayesian hyperparameter optimization. Grounds T and ET for these crops were measured using the heat ratio method of monitoring sap flow and the eddy covariance technique for quantifying ET. The Sentinel 2 satellite was used to compute field leaf area index (LAI). The modelled data were used to partition the orchard ET into beneficial (T) and non-beneficial water uses (orchard floor evaporation—Es). We adopted the 10-fold cross-validation to test the model robustness and an independent validation to test performance on unseen data. The 10-fold cross-validation and independent validation on ET and T models produced high accuracy with coefficient of determination (R2) 0.88, Kling–Gupta efficiency (KGE) 0.91, root mean square error (RMSE) 0.04 mm/h, and mean absolute error (MAE) 0.03 mm/h for all the crops. The study demonstrates that LightGBM can accurately model the transpiration and evapotranspiration for subtropical tree crops using Sentinel 2 data. The study found that Es which combined soil evaporation and understorey vegetation transpiration contributed 35, 32, and 31% to the grapefruit, litchi and mango orchard evapotranspiration, respectively. We conclude that improvements on orchard floor management practices can be utilized to minimize non-beneficial water losses while promoting the productive water use (T). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue GIS Modelling of Evapotranspiration with Remote Sensing)
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17 pages, 1593 KiB  
Article
The Contribution of Chikanda Orchids to Rural Livelihoods: Insights from Mwinilunga District of Northwestern Zambia
by Jane Musole Kwenye, Gillian Kabwe, Peter Mulenga and Mwazvita Tapiwa Beatrice Dalu
Sustainability 2025, 17(13), 6131; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17136131 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 266
Abstract
Studies examining the role of chikanda orchids in bolstering rural livelihoods coupled with the associated socio-economic intricacies remain absent, especially in African settings. This study examined the contribution of chikanda orchids in supporting rural livelihoods, taking into account socio-economic influences through a case [...] Read more.
Studies examining the role of chikanda orchids in bolstering rural livelihoods coupled with the associated socio-economic intricacies remain absent, especially in African settings. This study examined the contribution of chikanda orchids in supporting rural livelihoods, taking into account socio-economic influences through a case study of the Mwinilunga District of northwestern Zambia. The study employed a mixed methods approach using 303 semi-structured questionnaires, complemented by three focus group discussions and nine in-depth interviews. Study findings showed that revenue generated from chikanda orchid sales supported rural livelihoods and served a crucial function in addressing food scarcity challenges. Income derived from chikanda orchid sales accounted for 30.8% of total household income and exhibited an income equalization effect of 8% among households. Participation in harvesting chikanda orchids exhibited a significant correlation with gender (χ2 = 6; p < 0.05) and marital status (χ2 = 8; p < 0.05). This study showed the significance of chikanda orchids in supporting livelihoods, including socio-economic influences, particularly for poorer households that exhibit vulnerability to food deficits. Consequently, the need to develop effective chikanda orchid management strategies that are locally tailored and acknowledge the socio-economic intricacies associated with the chikanda orchids trade is fundamental. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of Rural Areas and Agriculture under Uncertainties)
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27 pages, 669 KiB  
Article
Effect of Contextual Factors on the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in South Africa
by Kanayo Ogujiuba, Maria Eggink, Chinelo Ogujiuba and Estelle Boshoff
World 2025, 6(3), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/world6030091 - 1 Jul 2025
Viewed by 445
Abstract
Having the proper infrastructure is crucial because it fosters prosperous enterprise and a skilled labor force capable of solving environmental issues. There are worries about the potential negative effects of human capital centered on innovation, despite studies showing benefits. This study examines how [...] Read more.
Having the proper infrastructure is crucial because it fosters prosperous enterprise and a skilled labor force capable of solving environmental issues. There are worries about the potential negative effects of human capital centered on innovation, despite studies showing benefits. This study examines how contextual factors such as business environment, infrastructure, and human capital, influence South Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Multiple Regression Technique was used for analysis. Findings showed that each of the three factors has a remarkable impact, with business environment showing the highest positive relationship to the Ecosystem Index. The results highlight the significance of focusing on sustainable activities when developing human capital. To promote a more sustainable entrepreneurship environment, the study suggests that policymakers should implement incentives, allocate finances for infrastructure, and establish educational and knowledge-sharing initiatives to encourage the sustainability of the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Future research directions will focus on investigating how additional contextual factors affect ecosystems in various regions and industries. The study also suggests the evaluation of gender equality in access to financial and business assistance. Full article
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14 pages, 290 KiB  
Article
Adherence to Personalised Nutrition Education Based on Glycemic and Food Insulin Index Principles and Their Association with Blood Glucose Control in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
by Hildegard Strydom, Jane Muchiri, Elizabeth Delport and Zelda White
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(6), 925; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22060925 - 11 Jun 2025
Viewed by 652
Abstract
Personalised nutrition education (PNE) can enhance blood glucose control (BGC). We determined whether patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) adhered to PNE based on glycemic index (GI), glycemic load (GL), and food insulin index (FII) principles and whether adherence was associated with improved [...] Read more.
Personalised nutrition education (PNE) can enhance blood glucose control (BGC). We determined whether patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) adhered to PNE based on glycemic index (GI), glycemic load (GL), and food insulin index (FII) principles and whether adherence was associated with improved BGC. This retrospective cohort included 67 files for patients who received PNE. The patients completed 3-day food and blood glucose records at three points over 90 days. HbA1c values were compared between time points. An adherence score sheet (ASS) was used to determine their adherence to PNE and the main meal adherence classification (MMAC). A one-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to assess the changes over time. A chi-square test determined the association between the MMAC and blood glucose levels falling within the targeted ranges. Correlations between dietary adherence and BGC indicators were examined using Pearson’s product–moment correlation. Adherence ranged from 88 to 95%. MMAC score was significantly associated with blood glucose being within the targeted ranges (p = 0.028). Mean blood glucose decreased over time, but the correlations with adherence were only significant at time point 1 (p = 0.029). HbA1c levels decreased significantly over time (p = 0.003), but their correlation with adherence was not significant (p > 0.05). In patients with T2DM, high adherence to PNE based on GI, GL, and FII principles was associated with improved BGC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Diabetes: Advances in Prevention and Management)
21 pages, 479 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Climate Change on the Agricultural Sector in SADC Countries
by Phetole Donald Semosa
Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 5177; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17115177 - 4 Jun 2025
Viewed by 520
Abstract
Agriculture is a key sector for economic growth, food security, and rural livelihoods within the member nations of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). However, the agricultural systems throughout the SADC regions face serious threats from climate change, which is seen through temperature [...] Read more.
Agriculture is a key sector for economic growth, food security, and rural livelihoods within the member nations of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). However, the agricultural systems throughout the SADC regions face serious threats from climate change, which is seen through temperature rises, irregular rainfall patterns, and the rising frequency of droughts. The study examines the impacts of climate change on agricultural productivity in four SADC countries: South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi. It also assesses the impact of institutional structures, policy initiatives, and technological advancements in enhancing agricultural resilience to climate change. The Panel Autoregressive Distributed Lag (PARDL) model was employed to assess short and long run impact of climate change on agricultural productivity. The findings reveal that precipitation significantly increases agricultural productivity in the long run, but not in the short run. In addition, governance inefficiencies, which are measured by control of corruption index have negative long run impacts on agricultural productivity. The estimated speed of adjustment (ECT: −0.9557) demonstrated a strong long run equilibrium relationship, indicating that agricultural productivity converges to its long run trend regardless of short run fluctuations. In conclusion, the findings of this study provide essential knowledge to assist policymakers, researchers, and development agencies in the creation of evidence-based policies aimed at improving agricultural resilience to climate change across SADC member countries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change Impacts on Ecological Agriculture Sustainability)
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17 pages, 1105 KiB  
Article
Contrasting Microplastic Characteristics in Macroinvertebrates from Two Independent but Adjacent Rivers in Kruger National Park, South Africa
by Purvance Shikwambana, Llewellyn C. Foxcroft, Hindrik Bouwman, Judith Botha and Jonathan C. Taylor
Water 2025, 17(11), 1579; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17111579 - 23 May 2025
Viewed by 566
Abstract
Freshwater macroinvertebrates, often used as indicators of environmental quality for freshwater ecosystems, may be compromised by microplastics (MPs). We investigated MPs occurring in benthic filter feeder, predator, and grazer macroinvertebrates collected from the catchment-independent but adjacent Olifants and Sabie rivers of Kruger National [...] Read more.
Freshwater macroinvertebrates, often used as indicators of environmental quality for freshwater ecosystems, may be compromised by microplastics (MPs). We investigated MPs occurring in benthic filter feeder, predator, and grazer macroinvertebrates collected from the catchment-independent but adjacent Olifants and Sabie rivers of Kruger National Park as duplicates. We counted 369 MPs in 376 organisms (1.0 n/organism) with a mean of 8.8 n/organism, 8.5 n/organism, and 0.16 n/organism in filter feeders, predators, and grazers, respectively. Based on MP colour, size, and morphotype, significant differences in proportional compositions between predatorial macroinvertebrates and all other macroinvertebrates in both rivers preclude predatorial macroinvertebrates as a proxy indicator for the other macroinvertebrates. Proportional compositions of MP characteristics in macroinvertebrates differed in all respects between the two adjacent rivers, except for one aspect. Microplastic morphotypes occurred in equal proportions in macroinvertebrates of both rivers, suggesting biological selection based on morphotype but not MP colour or size. We found little evidence of trophic transfer between feeding guilds. Of the six polymer types observed (n = 50), butyl and chlorobutyl dominated. Waste mismanagement, single-use plastics, inefficient wastewater treatment plants, mining, and road transportation may be the major MP pollution sources that need mitigation. Microplastics in freshwater ecosystems of nature conservation areas need more attention due to high biodiversity that may be exposed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impact of Microplastics on Aquatic Ecosystems)
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32 pages, 2773 KiB  
Review
Ethnobotanical and Nutritional Evaluation of Understudied Wild Edible Fruits in South Africa: Bridging Indigenous Knowledge and Food Security: A Review
by Nonhlanhla Preduence Lubisi, Maropeng Erica Matlala, Luambo Jeffrey Ramarumo and Peter Tshepiso Ndhlovu
Foods 2025, 14(10), 1726; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14101726 - 13 May 2025
Viewed by 1082
Abstract
Wild edible fruits are important for ensuring food and nutritional security, especially in developing countries like South Africa. Globally, wild edible fruits are widely distributed, and they are consumed in different parts of the world; however, they are undervalued. This systematic review consolidates [...] Read more.
Wild edible fruits are important for ensuring food and nutritional security, especially in developing countries like South Africa. Globally, wild edible fruits are widely distributed, and they are consumed in different parts of the world; however, they are undervalued. This systematic review consolidates existing knowledge addressing the utilization of wild edible fruits, and their nutritional benefits. A total of 74 wild edible fruit species belonging to 29 families found in South Africa were documented in this study. The nutritional composition was reported only in 41 (55.4%) fruit species. The Anacardiaceae family had the most cited species (n = 11) (14.86%), followed by the Moraceae (n = 6) (8.1%), and Cucurbitaceae and Ebenaceae, of which each had five species, each contributing 5.4% to the total documented species. Sclerocarya birrea. (A.Rich.) Hochst., Mimusops zeyheri Sond., and Strychnos spinosa Lam. are three of the most important wild fruit species contributing to food and nutritional security. This review revealed that there is a dearth of literature studies that have substantially documented the contribution of wild edible fruits in food and nutritional security. In this regard, a study on ethnobotanical evaluation incorporating wild edible fruits used by local people could significantly provide insights and enhance our understanding of indigenous and technological knowledge that could be utilized to strengthen rural food security. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Nutrition)
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27 pages, 800 KiB  
Article
Socio-Economic Determinants of Climate Change Adaptation Strategies Among Smallholder Farmers in Mbombela: A Binary Logistic Regression Analysis
by Thando Dyanty, Isaac Azikiwe Agholor, Tapelo Blessing Nkambule, Andries Agrippa Nkuna, Mzwakhe Nkosi, Shalia Matilda Ndlovu, Jabulani Johannes Mokoena, Pretty Nombulelo Nkosi, Nombuso Precious Nkosi and Thulasizwe Hopewell Makhubu
Climate 2025, 13(5), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13050090 - 29 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1398
Abstract
Climate change poses significant challenges to smallholder farmers, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where agriculture is highly vulnerable to changing climatic conditions. This study examines the socioeconomic determinants influencing the adoption of strategies for adapting to climate change among smallholder farmers in Mbombela, South [...] Read more.
Climate change poses significant challenges to smallholder farmers, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where agriculture is highly vulnerable to changing climatic conditions. This study examines the socioeconomic determinants influencing the adoption of strategies for adapting to climate change among smallholder farmers in Mbombela, South Africa. A quantitative research approach was employed, using structured questionnaires to collect data from 308 randomly selected smallholder farmers. Furthermore, the study utilised binary logistic regression to analyse the relationship between socioeconomic factors and the adoption of adaptation strategies. The results revealed that gender, age, income sources, access to climate information, and cooperative membership significantly influenced farmers’ adoption of adaptation strategies. Findings further showed that female farmers, older farmers, and those relying solely on farming income were less likely to adopt adaptation strategies, while younger farmers and those with diversified income sources were more likely to embrace adaptation strategies. Moreover, the study found that access to climate information and cooperative membership were negatively associated with the adoption of adaptation strategies. This negative association may be attributed to inefficiencies in current information dissemination, where climate-related information may not be tailored to the specific needs of farmers, or to cooperative structures that may not effectively facilitate knowledge sharing or collective action. The study concludes that targeted interventions, such as gender-sensitive policies, livelihood diversification, improved extension services, and strengthened cooperative structures, are essential to enhance smallholder farmers’ adaptive capacity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Climate Adaptation and Mitigation)
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20 pages, 2351 KiB  
Article
Refining Camera Trap Surveys for Mammal Detection and Diversity Assessment in the Baviaanskloof Catchment, South Africa
by Maya Beukes, Travis Perry, Daniel M. Parker and Nokubonga Mgqatsa
Wild 2025, 2(2), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/wild2020015 - 29 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1553
Abstract
Conserving biodiversity in mixed-land-use areas is essential, as nearly 80% of South Africa’s wild species exist outside protected areas. This study investigated mammalian diversity within the Baviaanskloof catchment, a mixed-use landscape in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. It also evaluated how camera setup [...] Read more.
Conserving biodiversity in mixed-land-use areas is essential, as nearly 80% of South Africa’s wild species exist outside protected areas. This study investigated mammalian diversity within the Baviaanskloof catchment, a mixed-use landscape in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. It also evaluated how camera setup parameters impact species detectability. Using 131 camera traps over four survey sessions from January 2020 to April 2022, 34 mammalian species were recorded over 21,020 trap days. Biodiversity indices revealed high species diversity with substantial variability across camera locations. Species discovery reached an asymptote at approximately 153 sampling days, though extended monitoring detected rarer species. Cameras positioned at heights of 40–70 cm improved detection rates, while heights above 100 cm reduced captures. However, elevation effects varied across species, highlighting the need for species-specific optimization. Optimal detection angles ranged from 50 to 90°, with extreme angles decreasing capture frequency. North- and south-facing cameras yielded better detection rates, while west-facing orientations introduced glare and reduced visibility. These findings underscore the biodiversity significance of the Baviaanskloof and emphasize the need to optimize camera configurations to enhance wildlife monitoring and conservation strategies in complex, mixed-use landscapes. Full article
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24 pages, 1965 KiB  
Article
Socioeconomic Factors Influencing Crop Diversification Among Smallholder Farmers in Bergville, South Africa
by Busisiwe Vilakazi, Alfred O. Odindo, Mutondwa M. Phophi and Paramu L. Mafongoya
Agriculture 2025, 15(9), 914; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15090914 - 22 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1347
Abstract
Crop diversification is a vital strategy for achieving sustainable agriculture and food security, yet adoption rates remain low. This study examined the socioeconomic factors influencing crop diversification among smallholder farmers. A two-stage sampling procedure was employed to elicit data from 161 farmers solely [...] Read more.
Crop diversification is a vital strategy for achieving sustainable agriculture and food security, yet adoption rates remain low. This study examined the socioeconomic factors influencing crop diversification among smallholder farmers. A two-stage sampling procedure was employed to elicit data from 161 farmers solely specializing in crop production. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data, analyzed using descriptive statistics. The multiple linear regression and multivariate probit regression models were applied to assess the socioeconomic factors influencing diversification. The results revealed that smallholders primarily focused on vegetable cultivation (87%), followed by cereals (56%) and legumes (43%). Education level, household size, market access, and the perceived benefits of diversification significantly (p < 0.05) influenced diversification decisions. Also, sources of irrigation water, age, marital status, and farm size were key factors in vegetable diversification, while farming experience, farm size, and perceived benefits influenced legume diversification. Only marital status and farming experience were positively linked to cereal crop diversification. Furthermore, 48.4% of farmers practice intercropping, integrating maize with pumpkins or sugar beans, while 33.5% still rely on monoculture, predominantly maize, due to limited resources. These findings highlight the need for policies and extension support to address socioeconomic barriers and encourage a wider adoption of crop diversification strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Economics, Policies and Rural Management)
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37 pages, 3278 KiB  
Review
Alleviating Plant Density and Salinity Stress in Moringa oleifera Using Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi: A Review
by Tshepiso Khoza, Absalom Masenya, Nokuthula Khanyile and Standford Thosago
J. Fungi 2025, 11(4), 328; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11040328 - 21 Apr 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1372
Abstract
Moringa oleifera (LAM) is a multipurpose tree species with extensive pharmacological and ethnomedicinal properties. Production of important medicinal plants is facing decline under changing climatic conditions, which brings along exacerbated abiotic stresses like salinity and intraspecific competition, particularly high planting densities. Increasing plant [...] Read more.
Moringa oleifera (LAM) is a multipurpose tree species with extensive pharmacological and ethnomedicinal properties. Production of important medicinal plants is facing decline under changing climatic conditions, which brings along exacerbated abiotic stresses like salinity and intraspecific competition, particularly high planting densities. Increasing plant density is seen as a strategy to increase production; however, the intraspecific competition and a lack of arable land limit productivity. Salinity has been estimated to harm approximately six percent of the Earth’s landmass. This leads to a loss of over 20% of agricultural output annually. These stressors can significantly curtail moringa’s growth and yield potential. Literature designates that Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF), ubiquitous soil microorganisms forming symbiotic associations with plant roots, offer a promising avenue for mitigating these stresses. This narrative review aims to investigate the utilization of AMF to alleviate the detrimental effects of salinity and high planting density on Moringa oleifera. The different adaptive strategies M. oleifera undergoes to mitigate both stressors are explored. The review found that AMF inoculation enhances plant tolerance to these stressors by improving nutrient acquisition, water relations, and activating stress response mechanisms. By facilitating improved nutrient and water absorption, AMF enhance root architecture, modulate ROS scavenging mechanisms, and promote optimal biomass allocation, ensuring better survival in high-density plantings. Furthermore, AMF-mediated stress alleviation is linked to enhanced physiological efficiency, including increased chlorophyll content, root–shoot biomass balance, and ion homeostasis. This review is important because it could provide insights into a sustainable, natural solution for improving the resilience of Moringa oleifera under adverse environmental conditions, with potential applications in global agriculture and food security. Future research should prioritize identifying and characterizing moringa-specific AMF species and evaluate the long-term efficacy, feasibility, and economic viability of AMF application in real-world moringa cultivation systems to fully harness the potential of AMF in moringa cultivation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Arbuscular Mycorrhiza Under Stress)
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23 pages, 2268 KiB  
Review
Indigenous Knowledge and Utilisation of Strychnos spinosa Lam. in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review of Its Medicinal, Nutritional, and Cultural Significance
by Sanele Nomfundo Sandisiwe Thothela, Elizabeth Kola, Mwazvita T. B. Dalu and Peter Tshepiso Ndhlovu
Diversity 2025, 17(4), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040228 - 25 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 866
Abstract
In sub-Saharan Africa, indigenous knowledge is a vital source of information about the local environment, including the identification and use of various plant species. One plant species that has attracted much attention in the area is Strychnos spinosa Lam., as local communities utilise [...] Read more.
In sub-Saharan Africa, indigenous knowledge is a vital source of information about the local environment, including the identification and use of various plant species. One plant species that has attracted much attention in the area is Strychnos spinosa Lam., as local communities utilise it for various purposes, such as medicinal, nutritional, and cultural. A systematic search for eligible studies was carried out by exploring different electronic databases, such as JSTOR, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The survey yielded 61 eligible studies, highlighting the diverse of uses of S. spinosa. The literature indicates that 37% of African countries have studied S. spinosa, mainly in Southern Africa. Most studies used semi-structured interviews, but over 70% did not analyse the plant’s nutritional and bioactive compounds. The research highlighted six distinct S. spinosa plant parts used for managing different ailments and conditions in Africa. Roots (25%), along with bark and fruits (23%), are primarily used for digestive disorders and fever; this was followed by leaves (20%) and wood (6%). The least utilised plant part was the radix or cortex (3%). These findings emphasise a significant gap in the understanding of S. spinosa’s nutritional and bioactive compounds, emphasising the need for quantitative research on its phytochemical properties and therapeutic applications within African traditional medicine. Full article
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15 pages, 1327 KiB  
Article
Effect of Vachellia tortilis Leaf Meal and Sunflower Oil Inclusion in Supplementary Diets of Lambs on In Vitro Short-Chain Fatty Acid and Gas Production and In Vivo Growth Performance
by Mahlogonolo Daniel Serumula, Bulelani Nangamso Pepeta, Mehluli Moyo, Terence Nkwanwir Suinyuy and Ignatius Verla Nsahlai
Animals 2025, 15(6), 863; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15060863 - 17 Mar 2025
Viewed by 389
Abstract
This study examined the effect of dietary Vachellia tortilis leaf meal and sunflower oil inclusion in supplementary diets on in vitro short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) and gas production and the in vivo growth performance of lambs. Four concentrate dietary treatments comprising control (CL), [...] Read more.
This study examined the effect of dietary Vachellia tortilis leaf meal and sunflower oil inclusion in supplementary diets on in vitro short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) and gas production and the in vivo growth performance of lambs. Four concentrate dietary treatments comprising control (CL), Vachellia tortilis leaf meal (VT), sunflower oil (SFO), and Vachellia tortilis leaf meal sunflower oil (VSFO) were formulated. Eight Merino lambs were blocked into two live weight blocks where animals within each block were randomly assigned to dietary treatments, making two animals per treatment. Lambs were offered a concentrate diet of 480 g/day per head, with urea-treated hay fed as a basal diet. Dietary effects were evaluated for in vitro short-chain fatty acid and gas production and 28-day growth performance of lambs over three study periods. The inclusion of VT and SFO showed no statistically significant effect on total SCFAs, acetate to propionate (A:P) ratio, methane (CH4), and carbon dioxide (CO2) production (p > 0.05), which might be attributable to low experimental units. The hourly A:P ratio and CH4 yield were the highest (p < 0.05) at 16 h of incubation. The inclusion of VT showed no statistically significant effect on growth performance and gas production due to the small sample size. Therefore, VT can be explored as a supplementary protein source in lamb diets given the impression of not showing any causative adverse effects on growth performance and in vitro gas production, although further research with larger sample sizes is needed to confirm these findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal System and Management)
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18 pages, 1043 KiB  
Article
Transforming South African Agriculture: The Role of Credit in Supporting Value Chain Sustainability
by Nomonde Jonas and Mzuyanda Christian
Agriculture 2025, 15(6), 620; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15060620 - 14 Mar 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1273
Abstract
Access to credit is essential for transforming South Africa’s agricultural sector, particularly in enhancing value chain sustainability. This study investigated the role of credit access in supporting smallholder farmers’ value chain sustainability, as part of a broader project focused on developing a credit [...] Read more.
Access to credit is essential for transforming South Africa’s agricultural sector, particularly in enhancing value chain sustainability. This study investigated the role of credit access in supporting smallholder farmers’ value chain sustainability, as part of a broader project focused on developing a credit risk model for South African farmers. Data were collected from 223 SAFDA farmers in KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga using a structured questionnaire. The average treatment effects (ATEs) of a propensity score matching (PSM) model was used to estimate the impacts of credit on the following four key variables: farm ownership, farm size, farm income, and farm assets. The results showed that farm ownership was associated with credit access, as ownership provided 1.84 times the chances of loan approval. Additionally, farm income increased by ZAR 2,849,398 for credit recipients compared to non-recipients. This income boost enhances market linkages and food value chain sustainability. This study rejects the hypothesis that credit access has no impact on smallholder farmers, highlighting its vital role in promoting agricultural development and value chain growth. It is recommended that policymakers enhance credit access and risk mitigation strategies to further support smallholder farmers. To improve access to credit for smallholder farmers in South Africa, we recommend the following measures: (1) establishing credit guarantee schemes in partnership with financial institutions to reduce lending risks; and (2) implementing financial education programs for smallholder farmers to enhance their debt management skills. Credit access has the potential to promote positive change across economic, social, and environmental aspects, improving not only the livelihoods of smallholder farmers but also contributing to broader sustainable development goals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Economics, Policies and Rural Management)
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