On 16-17 February 2026, FABI hosted a five-member delegation from Tanager for a focused workshop to explore opportunities for collaboration in grain and maize research, diagnostics, and farmer support systems. The visit was part of a shared effort to better understand where our work can align to support stronger, more resilient grain production systems.

Tanager’s work is centred on improving agricultural productivity among smallholder farmers in South Africa, with a strong emphasis on helping farmers move from subsidy-dependent production toward more sustainable commercial farming. Their efforts address key challenges, including low yields, limited economies of scale, and post-harvest losses.

Over the two days, colleagues from FABI and Tanager had rich, practical discussions on maize pests and diseases, diagnostics, field-based pest management experiences, and how digital systems can better support decision-making and farmer outcomes. The programme also included a tour of FABI’s facilities and Disease Clinic, where the Tanager team could see how samples are processed and how diagnostic workflows support research and extension. On the second day, the conversation continued with Information Hub sessions, demonstrations, and field-based practice, creating space for hands-on learning and meaningful exchange around future integration and collaboration opportunities.

The workshop was a valuable opportunity to connect expertise, share perspectives, and identify practical ways to work together. We are grateful to the Tanager team for visiting FABI and look forward to building on this engagement in the months ahead, including a planned visit by the FABI team to Tanager in the Mthatha region in mid-March.