STAFF
Associate Professor Seoleseng Tshwenyane
Head of Department
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Seoleseng Tshwenyane is an Associate Professor (Horticulture) with the degree of Bachelor of Science (BSc) (Agriculture) from the University of Botswana, Master of Science (MSc) from the University of Reading, UK, and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Horticulture from Essex University, Writtle College. As an Associate Professor in Horticulture, she works on indigenous ornamental plants, invasive ornamental plants, horticulture, and community engagements, especially youth and women empowerment. she has experience across multisectoral government departments, collaboration with international universities, national agricultural institutions and non-governmental organisations. She has successfully collaborated in Erasmus+ projects and other externally funded projects.
She has successfully supervised undergraduate and graduates (MSc and PhD) students to completion.
Currently, the Head of Department for Crop and Soil Sciences
- Floriculture,
- Ornamental horticulture,
- Controlled environment horticulture,
- Plant propagation
1. Useful Plants Project (UPP) Project II
2.Cultivation, value addition and marketing of climate smart emerging crops to improve food security I
3.Morama bean project
4.BLEANSA project: Building a Large Evergreen Agriculture Network in Southern Africa;
1.Cultivation, value addition and marketing of climate smart emerging crops to improve food security II
2.Team leader in the Slavonski Brod University, Croatia University; Erasmus+ project
3.Co-team member in the Akita Prefectural University, Japan and BUAN partnership
4.Team Leader in the University of California, Davis (UC Davis) and BUAN collaboration research on an Online decision tool (CROP MANAGE)
5. Team member in the BAVE (BUAN Adopted Village Extension)
BOOK CHAPTERS
Dixon Olutade Torimiro, Nelson Tselaesele, Masa Motaung, Belda Mosepele, Kgomotso Mabusa, Davis Marumo, Seoleseng Tshwenyane & James Machete (2025) One hundred rural – based enterprises for youth & women, In Dixon Torimiro., Nelson Tselaesele and Masa Motaung, (eds) 2025. An African Text on Agricultural Extension Practices: Anchored on a University Extension Strategy Framework. Pg 253-259, ISBN-13 978-9996876103
Dixon Olutade Torimiro, Masa Motaung, Kgomotso Mabusa, Davis Marumo, Seoleseng Tshwenyane, Belda Mosepele, Daniso Mokgwathi & Letlamoreng Samuel (2025), Resource assessment and potentials of Oliphants drift village, In Dixon Torimiro., Nelson Tselaesele and Masa Motaung, (eds) 2025. An African Text on Agricultural Extension Practices: Anchored on a University Extension Strategy Framework. Pg 205-218, ISBN-13 978-9996876103
Dixon Olutade Torimiro, Davis Marumo, Kgomotso Mabusa, Nelson Tselaesele, Masa Motaung, Belda Mosepele & Seoleseng Tshwenyane (2025) Rural enterprises, entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship, In An African Text on Agricultural Extension Practices: Anchored on a University Extension Strategy Framework., In Dixon Torimiro., Nelson Tselaesele and Masa Motaung, (eds) 2025. An African Text on Agricultural Extension Practices: Anchored on a University Extension Strategy Framework. Pg 225-252, ISBN-13 978-9996876103
Tshwenyane, S. O., Mogotsi, K.K., Sacande,M., Ulian, T. and Mattana, E. (2019) Guibourtia coleosperma (Benth.). In Mattana, E., Flores, C., Lira, R., Mamatsharaga, A., Mogotsi, K. K., Muthoka, P., Ngwako, S.,Omondi, W., Ondieki Nyamongo, D., Sanogo, A. K., Sanogo, S., Ulian, T. (eds.) (2019). Wild Plants for a Sustainable Future: 110 multipurpose species. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, pp 36-39. e-ISBN 978 1 84246 674 2/ ISBN 978 1 84 246 673 5.
De Cauwer, V., Chaka, M., Chimwamurombe, P.M., George, D., Ham, H., Heita, H., Makoi, T., Mashungwa, G., Chaka, M., Reinhold-Hurek, B., and Tshwenyane, S.O. (2018) Artificial and assisted natural regeneration of socio-economically important southern African tree species. In: Climate change and adaptive land management in southern Africa – assessments, changes, challenges, and solutions (ed. by Revermann, R., Krewenka, K.M., Schmiedel, U., Olwoch, J.M., Helmschrot, J. & Jürgens, N.), pp. 324 - 331, Biodiversity & Ecology, 6, Klaus Hess Publishers, Göttingen & Windhoek. ISBN 978 99916 57 43 1.
JOURNAL ARTICLES:
Diana Rodríguez-Cala., Jana Fried., John R. U. Wilson., Katharina Dehnen-Schmutz.,Seoleseng O. Tshwenyane., Israel Legwaila (2025), Alien ornamental plants on sale in Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe: potential sources for plant invasions, Researchsquare, DOI:https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-6627842/v1
Diana Rodríguez-Cala., Jana Fried., John R. U. Wilson., Katharina Dehnen-Schmutz, Seoleseng O. Tshwenyane., Israel Legwaila (2025), Ornamental horticulture in Southern Africa: strategic actions to address biological invasions, Environmental Management https://doi.org/10.1007/s00267-025-02241-
S. B. Pholoma, G. Haki, G. Malambane, S. Tshwenyane (2025). Secondary Metabolites and Antioxidant Activity of Six Corchorus olitorius L. Accessions Grown Under Water Deficit Stress Condition. Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology. 18(10):5017-6. doi: 10.52711/0974-360X.2025.00725
Pholoma B.S., Haki, G., Malambane, G., Tshwenyane, S.O and Joseph Adjetey (2024) Corchorus olitorius: A Promising Medicinal Plant in Southern Africa and Effects of Growing Conditions on Its Bioactive Compounds—A Review, Journal of Biosciences and Medicines, ISSN Online: 2327-509X, ISSN Print: 2327-5081
Rodríguez Cala, Diana; Fried, Jana; Wilson, John; Dehnen-Schmutz, Katharina; Tshwenyane, Seoleseng; Legwaila, Israel (2024). Stakeholder awareness of plant invasions and perceptions of ornamental invasive plants in Southern Africa, People and Nature,
Professor E Vallentino Emongor
Professor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
He is a trained and qualified agricultural scientist (horticulture and agronomy) with 38 years of experience in agricultural extension, research, and university teaching and supervision of undergraduate and graduate students, plus coordination of graduate studies.He has been the Crop Science and Production Department Graduate Coordinator and Member of the Board of School of Graduate Studies (SGS), University of Botswana (UB) from 2009 to 2016.He has supervised and graduated five (5) PhD and 27 MSc students; externally examined four MSc theses; written three books, four book chapters, 79 papers in peer reviewed journals, 30 papers in edited proceedings, 16 Conference papers, and six teaching manuals. He was a team leader in several multidisciplinary research projects and consultancies. Member of the editorial board of The Botswana Journal of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Kenya Journal of Horticultural Science and East African Agriculture and Forestry Journal. Editor/Reviewer HortScience, Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science, African Journal of Agricultural Research, Journal of Plant Growth Regulators, Botswana Journal of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Uniswa Research Journal of Agriculture Science and Technology, Journal of Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Uniswa Journal of Agriculture, Acta Horticulturae (International Society for Horticultural Science-ISHS), Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology, Discovery and Innovation Journal, African Crop Science Journal, Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, American Journal of Experimental Agriculture, Agricultural Science Research Journal, etc.
- Pomology,
- Postharvest Harvest Physiology and Technology,
- Plant Propagation,
- Floriculture
1. RUFORUM Grant on Safflower Germplasm Evaluation for Botswana Conditions, US$ 60,000 (to train 2 MSc Students).
2. EU-BCA Bambara Groundnut Research Project (BAMLINK)- Research on Ecophysiological Interactions. European Union (EU) Funded Project (euros 98,074).
3. Use of sewage effluent for irrigation on horticultural crops and its effects on elemental composition of the produce and soil chemical properties. Botswana College of Agriculture, Research and Publications Committee (RPC) Funded Project (Pula 523,446.90).
4. Development and Rapid Multiplication of Cassava Germplasm Free from Cassava Mosaic Virus in Western, Coast and Rift Valley Provinces of Kenya. Funded by Rockefeller Foundation (US $ 80,000).
5. Agriculture Research Fund- Funded by World Bank- Joint Cassava Project with KARI (Kenya) on cassava improvement in Western Province and North Rift. Funded by World Bank (US $ 200,000).
6. Effect of benzyladenine on apple Fruit set and Postharvest Quality. International Development Research Centre (IDRC, Canada), Funded Project (Canadian $ 180, 000). This Project led to my PhD Scholarship.
7. Chamomile Germplasm Evaluation Project in Kenya. Joint Project Between Chemistry and Crop Science Departments of the University of Nairobi. Funded by World Bank (US $ 333,330).
RUFORUM Grant on Enhancing Safflower Production and Product Development for Food Security and Improving Incomes of Small-Scale Farmers in Botswana, US$ 300,000 (to train 4 MSc, two PhD and 10 TVET students), four-year project.
1. Mosupiemang, M., Emongor, V. E., and Malambane, G. (2025). The response of safflower genotypes to drought stress induced at the rosette stage. Journal of Aridland Agriculture, 11:69-76. Doi:10.25081/jaa.2025.v11.9121. https://updatepublishing.com/journal/index.php/jaa.
2. Emongor, V. E., Setshogela, B. P., and Tiroesele, B. (2025). Safflower genotypes and time of picking flores influenced mineral and proximate variables. Journal of Medicinal Plants Studies, 13(2):174-181. DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.22271/plants.2025.v13.i2b.1820.
3. Kereilwe, D., Malambane, G., Emongor, V. E, and Batlang, U. (2025). Cold stress-induced biochemical and molecular responses in safflower (Carthamus tinctorious L.). Plant Science Today. https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.4032.
4. Emongor, V. E., Setshogela, B. P., and Tiroesele, B. (2024). Influence of genotype and time of harvest on flores yield, carthamin and carthamidin contents, and dye index of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.). Journal of Medicinal Plants Studies, 12(6):111-122. DOI: https://doi.org/10.22271/plants.2024.v12.i6b.1774.
5. Emongor, V. E., Tiroesele, B. and Moatshe, O. M. (2023). Enhancing safflower Production and Product Development for Food Security and Improving Incomes of Small-scale Farmers in Botswana. In Egeru, A., Lindow, M. & Leresche, K. M. (Eds.), University Engagement with Farming Communities in Africa, Community Action Research Platforms, Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group. ISBN 987-1-032-48118-0. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003387497.
6. Emongor, V. E. and Emongor, R. E. (2023). Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.), pp. 683-731. In:Farooq, M and Siddique, H. M.K. (Editors), Negelected and Underutilized Crops: Smart Future Food, Academic Press, An Imprint of Elsevier, London, United Kingdom. https://www.elsevier.com/books/neglected-and-underutilized-crops/farooq/978-0-323-90537-4. ISBN: 978-0-323-90537-4.
7. Emongor R. A, Maina F.W., Nyongesa, D., Ngoru, B. and Emongor V. E. (2021). Food and nutrition security and wildlife conservation: Case studies from Kenya, pp. 201-235. In: Food Security and Nutrion, Edited by Charis G. Galanakis. Elselvier, Academic Press Publishers, 295p. ISBN 978-0-12-820521-1.
8. Mosupiemang, M., Emongor, V. E., Malambane, G., and Mapitse, R. (2023). Growth, development, and yield of safflower genotypes in response to environmental variations. Journal of Phytology, 15: 145-154. https//updatepublishing.com/journal/index.php/jp. Doi:10.25081/jp.2023.v15.8255.
9. Kereilwe, D., Emongor, V. E., and Malambane, G. (2023). Temperature and Duration of Exposure on Chilling Injury of Safflower. European Journal of Agriculture and Food Sciences. DOI: 10.24018/ejfood.2023.5.2.660. www.ejfood.org.
10. Mosupiemang, M., Malambane, G., Mathapa, B. G., and Emongor, V. E. (2022). Olesin expression patterns and size of oil bodies as a factor in determining oil content in safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) genotypes. European Journal of Agriculture and Food Sciences, 4(5): 54-60. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.24018/ejfood.2022.4.5.570.
Associate Professor Otsoseng Oagile
Associate Professor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
He is a horticulturist and agronomist with a PhD specialising in plant propagation and crop physiology. His experience in agriculture spans over 35 years working in across the agriculture industry from practical farming to University teaching. I am currently an Associate Professor in Horticulture at BUAN where he does research and also teach such courses as Plant Propagation, Tissue Culture, Fruit and vegetable Production. He also does extension service where he interact with farmers through farmer groups such as Botswana Horticulture Council (BoHoCo) and Potato growers groups. Professionally, he associates with Botswana Bureau of Standards as chairpesron for National Technical Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetable.
Plant Propagation
Vegetable production
Fruit production
Tissue Culture
Olericulture
Horticulture
1. RUFORUM Safflower Project
2. USEFUL PLANTS Project
GEF SMALL GRANTS on Rainwater harvest and Backyard Gardening Project
1. FAO ONE COUNTRY ONE PRODUCT (OCOP) Potato Project
2. Hemp research project
3. Building resilient livelihoods for smallholder potato farmers in Southern Africa and eastern Africa – A national Geographic Project (A Collaboration Project between Botswana, Kenya and South Africa)
Team member in the University of California, Davis (UC Davis) and BUAN collaboration research on an Online decision tool (CROP MANAGE)
1. Nuugulu, L.M., Malambane, G., Oagile, O. and Batlang, U. (2025). Characterisation of spider plant (Cleome gynandra L.) accessions for drought tolerance traits. Journal of Underutilsed Plant Research 4(1)
2. Emongor, V. and Oagile, O. Safflower production. Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Gaborone, Botswana. (ISBN-9789996806070)
3. T. Mathowa, K. Tshipinare, W. Mojeremane1, G.M. Legwaila and O. Oagile, O. (2017). Effect Effect of growing media on growth and development of sweet paper (Capsicum annum L.) seedlings. Journal of Applied Horticulture, 19(3),
4. Emongor, V.E., Oarabile, P., Phuduhudu, D. and Oagile, O. (2017). Effects of Genotype on Vegetative Growth, Yield Components and Yield, Oil Content and Oil Yield of Safflower. Agricultural Science Research Journal, 7(12), 381-392
5. Oagile, O., Ramalekane, O., Mojeremane, W., Matsuane, C., Legwaila, G.M. and Mathowa, T. (2016). Growth and Development Response of Kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala L.) Seedlings to Different Commercial Growing Media. International Journal of Plant and Soil Science, 12(4), 1-7
6. Mathowa, T., Nthebe, T., Mojeremane, W., Matsuane, C., Legwaila, G.M. & Oagile, O. (2016). Effect of commercial growing media on emergence, growth and development of tomato seedlings. International Journal of Agronomy and Agricultural Research, 9(1), 83-91
7. Oagile, O., Gabolemogwe, P., Matsuane, C. & Mathowa. T. (2016). Effect of container size on growth and development of tomato seedlings. International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences. 5(4), 890-896
Associate Professor Utlwang Batlang
Associate Professor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
He is an Associate Professor (Agronomy and Plant Physiology) with the degree of Bachelor of Science (BSc) (Biological and Environmental Sciences) from the University of Botswana, Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Degrees in Plant Physiology from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia (USA) in 2006 and 2009 respectively. As Plant Physiologist my research applies tools to understand the effects of environmental stress (drought, temperature, salinity) on crop productivity. His recent publications on plant environment interactions are in reputable publishing houses such as Nature, Wiley-Blackwell, Elsevier, and Springer, among others. He has successfully led and delivered research projects involving colleagues and graduate students, with successful supervision fourteen (14) graduate students. He has widely consulted for the Local Enterprise Authority (LEA) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to advise on various crop development programmes. My research and consultancy portfolio to-date is well over P 20 million .
- Plant Physiology,
- Plant Biotechnology
- Agronomy,
1. Scale Farmers. National Environment Fund (NEF), Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism (MEWT), Botswana Government.
2. Water use efficiency and grain quality of crops under water deficit (Task 308). Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL).
3. Making use of the wild legume resource to improve arable and livestock farming in Botswana (Task 316).Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL)
4. Identification of medicinal uses and phytochemicals from plants used by Botswana Traditional Healers to address health related concerns. Forest Conservation Botswana (FCB) Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism (MEWT), Botswana Government.
5. Using isotopic, nuclear and other conventional techniques to support the development of improved soil and water Management techniques to increase crop production (BOT5007). International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Department of Agricultural Research, Botswana
On Farm popularization of sunflower intercropping with arable crop production for poverty alleviation among smallholder farmers of Nigeria and Botswana (IDMRCI04). Association of African Universities (AAU)
Development and adoption of improved and climate resilient cereal farming systems across Botswana’s landscapes. The Ministry of Communications and Innovation (MCI), Botswana Government
1. Nuugulu L.M and Batlang U. (2025). Characterization of spider plant (Cleome gynandra L.) accessions from diverse agroecological regions for morphological and physiological traits associated with nitrogen deficiency tolerance. Plant Science Today 12. https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.4952
2. Kereilwe, D., Malambane, G., Emongor, V. E, and Batlang, U. (2025). Cold stress-induced biochemical and molecular responses in safflower (Carthamus tinctorious L.). Plant Science Today 12.https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.4032
3. Madumane, K.; Sewelo, L.T.; Nkane, M.N.; Batlang, U.; Malambane, G. 2024. Morphological, Physiological, and Molecular Stomatal Responses in Local Watermelon Landraces as Drought Tolerance Mechanisms. Horticulturae 10: 123. https://doi.org/10.3390
4. Malambane G, Madumane K, Sewelo LT and Batlang U. 2023. Drought stress tolerance mechanisms and their potential common indicators to salinity, insights from the wild watermelon (Citrullus lanatus): A review. Frontiers in Plant Science 13:1074395
5. Malambane, G., Batlang U., Ramolekwa, K., Tsujimoto, H., Akashi., K. 2021. Growth chamber and field evaluation of physiological factors of two watermelon genotypes. Plant Stress 2: 100017.
6. Ambavaram MR , Basu S , Krishnan A , Venkategowda R, Batlang U, Rahman L, Niranjan B Baisakh B, Pereira A. 2014. Coordinated regulation of photosynthesis in rice increases yield and tolerance to environmental stress. Nature Communications 5: 5302.
7. Utlwang Batlang, Niranjan Baisakh, Madana M.R. Reddy, Andy Pereira. 2013. Phenotypic and Physiological Evaluation for Drought and Salinity Tolerance in Rice. Pp in 209-225. In: Yang Yanong (ed). Pp 209-225. Methods in Molecular Biology: Rice Protocols 956. Springer Nature: 209-225.
8. Kakumanu, A., Ambavaram, M.M.R., Klumas, C., Krishnan, A., Batlang, U., Myers, E., Grene, R., Pereira, A. 2012. Effects of drought on gene expression in maize reproductive and leaf meristem as revealed by deep sequencing. Plant Physiology 160: 846-867.
Dr. Gloria N Mashungwa
Senior Lecturer
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Dr. Nnaniki Gloria Mashungwa is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences at the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN), where she has served since 2013. She is an accomplished agronomist and plant scientist with over 30 years of experience spanning academia, government service, and applied agricultural development, with a strong focus on improving crop productivity, resilience, and sustainability in Botswana’s semi-arid environments. She obtained her PhD in Agronomy from BUAN in 2024, specializing in genetic variability of nitrogen fixation and water use efficiency in cowpea. Her academic background also includes an MSc in Plant Breeding from the University of Sydney and a BSc in Agriculture from the University of Botswana.
Before joining BUAN, Dr. Mashungwa held senior positions in Botswana’s Ministry of Agriculture, including Chief Agronomist, Regional Agricultural Officer, and Oilseeds Program Leader, contributing significantly to national crop research and technology dissemination. Her research interests encompass drought tolerance, climate-resilient agriculture, legume improvement, water use efficiency, and sustainable grain systems. She has led and contributed to major donor-funded projects, notably SASSCAL initiatives and the Millennium Seed Bank’s Useful Plants Project. Dr. Mashungwa has published widely and contributed to internationally recognized scientific books. She remains committed to teaching, mentoring, applied research, and promoting community seed banking as a strategy for conserving agricultural biodiversity and strengthening climate-resilient food systems in Southern Africa
- Plant Breeding, Fibre Crop Production, Oilseed crops, Agronomy,
- Root and Tuber crops,
- Industrial Hemp and Medicinal Hemp (Cannabis sativa) Indigenous Knowledge in crop production and conservation, Crops and vation and Community Human Kind, Underutilized and Neglected crops,
- Seed conser Seed Banking,
- Crop domestication and sustainable utilization of wild edible plants
1. Useful Plants Project (UPP 11)
2. Cultivation, value addition and marketing of climate smart emerging crops to improve food security.
2. Water Use Efficiency and Grain Quality of Crops under Water Deficit Conditions. SASSCAL Task ID: Task 308 - 1 451 760.
3. Making use of wild legumes to improve arable and livestock farming in Botswana. SASSCAL TASK 316 (2012-2018) - P1 852 300
4. Bambara groundnut (BAMLINK PROJECT)
5 Breeding blackeye cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) for resistance to Alectra vogelli (L.) Benth in Botswana.
6.Molecular, environmental and nutritional Evaluation of Bambara Groundnut (Vigna subterranean L. Verdc.) for food production in Semi-Arid Africa and India. (2005
7. Making use of wild legumes to improve arable and livestock farming inBotswana, SASSCAL TASK 316 (2012-2018) - P1 852 300
8. Cultivation, value addition and marketing of climate smart emerging crops to improve food security: SASSCAL Task ID: Task 335
SASSCAL II: Sub-Task 1: (2023-2027)
Molecular and physiological characterization of Tsamma melon (Kgengwe) in their natural habitat in various areas in Botswana and Namibia
BOOK CHAPTERS
1. Dayoub M., Rammotokara G, Mashungwa G.N (2025) Baobab’s and Morula’s Contribution to Food Security in Africa. In: Adefila A., Cheikhyoussef A., Egbazor K.F., Asomaki R., Lepetu J. and Saarto A. Baobab and Marula: New solutions to Global Warming and Food Security.pp113-
2. Mashungwa G.N, Mogotsi K.K, Amosso C, Sacande M., Ulian T., Mattana E (2019) Bauhinia macrantha Oliv. In: Ulian T. Flores, C., Lira, R., Mamatsharaga, A., Mogotsi, K.K., Muthoka, P., Ngwako, S.,Nyamongo, D.O., Omondi, W., Sanogo, A.K., Sanogo, S., Mattana, E. (Eds)(2019). Wild plants for a sustainable future: 110 Multipurpose species. Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew pp 12-15
3.Mashungwa G.N, Ngwako, S., Mogotsi, K.K., Sacande M., Ulian T., Mattana E (2019) Cucumis africanus L.f. In: Ulian T. Flores, C., Lira, R., Mamatsharaga, A., Mogotsi, K.K., Muthoka, P., Ngwako, S., Nyamongo, D.O., Omondi, W.,Sanogo, A.K., Sanogo, S., Mattana, E. (Eds)(2019). Wild plants for a sustainable future: 110 Multipurpose species. Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew pp 28-31
4. Mashungwa G.N., Mogotsi, K.K., Amosso C., Sacande M., Ulian T., Mattana E (2019) Grewia flava DC. In: Ulian T. Flores, C., Lira, R., Mamatsharaga, A., Mogotsi, K.K., Muthoka, P., Ngwako, S., Nyamongo, D.O., Omondi, W.,Sanogo, A.K., Sanogo, S., Mattana, E. (Eds) (2019). Wild plants for a sustainable future: 110 Multipurpose species. Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew pp 32-35
5. Mogotsi, K.K., Amosso C., Sacande M., Mashungwa G.N., Ulian T., Mattana E (2019) Hyphaene petersiana Klotzsch ex Mart. In: Ulian T. Flores, C., Lira, R., Mamatsharaga, A., Mogotsi, K.K., Muthoka, P., Ngwako, S., Nyamongo, D.O., Omondi, W.,Sanogo, A.K., Sanogo, S., Mattana, E. (Eds) (2019). Wild plants for a sustainable future: 110 Multipurpose species. Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew pp 32
6. Pule-Meulenberg F, Obopile M, Chimwamurombe P, Bernard N., Losologolo M., Hurek T., Sarkar A., Batlang U., Ngwako S., Schmiedel U., Nanyeni L., Mashungwa G., Tselaesele N., and Reinhold-Hurek B. (2018). Diversity of wild herbaceous legumes in Southern Africa, their associated root nodule bacteria and insect pests. In: Climate change and adaptive land management in southern Africa – assessments, changes, challenges, and solutions (ed. by Revermann, R.,Krewenka, K.M., Schmiedel, U., Olwoch, J.M., Helmschrot, J. & Jürgens, N.), pp. 257-264, Biodiversity & Ecology, 6, Klaus Hess Publishers, Göttingen & Windhoek. ISBN:978-3933117-95-3.
7. Batlang, U. King C.(Jr). S. Ngwako. C. Nkomazana, S. G. Malambane. T. Mpuisang, T.S. Moroke, G. Mashungwa, G. Bagwasi, F. Pule-Meulenberg, D. Ng’uni, G. Munkombwe (2018). Germplasm evaluation for climate adaptation and drought tolerance: The cases of local varieties of maize in Zambia and cowpea in Botswana. In: Climate change and adaptive land management in southern Africa – assessments, changes, challenges, and solutions (ed. by Revermann, R.,Krewenka, K.M., Schmiedel, U., Olwoch, J.M., Helmschrot, J. & Jürgens, N.), pp. 272-281, Biodiversity & Ecology, 6, Klaus Hess Publishers, Göttingen & Windhoek. ISBN:978-3933117-95-3.
8. Obopile M., Karabo O., Tshipinare B.P.,Losologolo M., Bernard N., Ngwako S., Batlang U., Mashungwa G.N.,Tselaesele N., Pule-Meulenberg F. (2018). Increasing yields of cereals: benefits derived from intercropping with legumes and from the associated bacteria. In: Climate change and adaptive land management in southern Africa – assessments, changes, challenges, and solutions (ed. by Revermann, R.,Krewenka, K.M., Schmiedel, U., Olwoch, J.M., Helmschrot, J. & Jürgens, N.), pp. 265-271, Biodiversity & Ecology, 6, Klaus Hess Publishers, Göttingen & Windhoek. ISBN:978-3933117-95-3.
9. De Cauwer V., Mubita C., Chimwamurombe P.M., George D., Ham., Hannel., Heita H., Makoi T., Mashungwa G.,Reinhold-Hurek B., and Tshwenyane S. (2018). Artificial and assisted natural regeneration of socio economically important Southern African tree species. In: Climate change and adaptive land management in southern Africa – assessments, changes, challenges, and solutions (ed. by Revermann, R.,Krewenka, K.M., Schmiedel, U., Olwoch, J.M., Helmschrot, J. & Jürgens, N.), pp. 324-331, Biodiversity & Ecology, 6, Klaus Hess Publishers, Göttingen & Windhoek. ISBN:978-3933117-95-3.
10. Van der Voosen H.A.M, Mashungwa G.N, R.M. Mmolotsi (2007) Olea europaea L. In: Van der Vossen, H.A.M & Mkamilo, G.S. (Editors). Plant Resources of Tropical Africa 14. Vegetable Oils. PROTA Foundation, Wageningen, Netherlands/Backhuys, Publishers, Leiden, Netherlands/CTA, Wageningen, Netherlands. pp.121-126. ISBN 90-5782-191-2
Articles in Refereed Journals
1. Mashungwa, G. N., Moroke, T. S., Kgosiesele, E. and Kashe, K. (2018). Grain legume production and their potential for sustainable agriculture in Botswana between 2008 and 2015 – A review. Botswana Journal of Agriculture and Applied Sciences 12 (Issue 1 - Special) pp 95-104. ISSN: 1815-5574.
2. Bernard N., Losologolo M., Ngwako S., Batlang U., Mashungwa G., Tselaesele N., and Pule –Meulenberg F (2017). Symbiotic performance of grain and wild herbaceous legumes in the Okavango delta and Tswapong region of Botswana. Symbiosis. DOI 10.1007/s13199-017-0515-2.
3. Tsheko R. Tapela M. Mashungwa G. and Kayombo B. (2015). Relationship between sorghum yield and both measured and satellite-derived meteorological parameters in semi-arid Botswana. African Crop Science Journal 23:151-164.
4. Ngwako S. and G.N. Mashungwa (2011) Current approaches to Alectra vogelii control in cowpea. International Journal of Tropical Agriculture and Food Systems, 5(2): 143–146. ©Tapas Institute of Scientific Research and Development.
5. Sesay A., Khonga E.B., Balole T.V. and Mashungwa G.N. (2006). Assessment of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) production for drought tolerance in Botswana. Botswana Journal of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, 2: 98-116.
Dr Israel Legwaila
Senior Lecturer
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Dr. Israel A. Legwaila is a Senior Lecturer at the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN), specialising in landscape architecture, land reclamation, and landscape management. He holds a PhD in Landscape Architecture from the University of Sheffield (2012); a Master of Landscape Architecture from North Carolina State University, Raleigh; a Bachelor of Science Specializing in Parks and Natural Resources Management from California State University, Chico (1998) and Associate of Science Degree in Ornamental Horticulture from Butte College, Oroville (1998). His work focuses on landscape planning, design, construction and management, mined?land reclamation, visual landscape assessment, Turfgrass and sports surface management, and environmental landscaping and indigenous plant use.
Dr. Legwaila has held key leadership roles at BUAN, including Acting Director of the Centre for In-Service and Continuing Education and Coordinator of the INCU?HIVE Graduate Entrepreneurship Programme, where he supports entrepreneurship and innovation. His research has contributed to mine/quarry reclamation, biodiversity studies, and sustainable landscape management and playing quality of sports surfaces.
Landscape planning,
Design,
Construction and management,
Mined?land reclamation,
Visual landscape assessment,
Turfgrass and sports surface management,
Environmental landscaping and indigenous plant use.
- Playing quality of football pitch surfaces (natural and artificial grass)
- Postharvest handling of ornamental plants
- Turfgrass irrigation
- Urban Design Framework for Heritage Conservation: Integrating Lecha Pan into the Spatial Development of Lecheng Village, Botswana
- Suatainable Rangeland Management. BUAN - CI Project
- ZAZINAMBO Project
- E Lange, I Legwaila. Visual landscape research–Overview and outlook. (2012). Chinese Landscape Architecture 28 (195), 03
- I A Legwaila, E Lange, J Cripps. Quarry reclamation in England: a review of techniques. (2015). Jasmr 4 (2), 55-79
- I A. Legwaila, E Lange, J Cripps. Assessing the effects of quarry treatment options on the attractiveness of reclaimed limestone quarries using 3D-visualizations. (2020). International Journal of Mining, Reclamation and Environment 34 (3), 179-197
- IA Legwaila, B Chunga, T Mathowa. Productivity of Cynodon dactylon (bermudagrass) grown on copper and nickel mine tailings amended with sewage sludge. (2020).Acta Hortic. 1279 (ISHS 2020.), 147-152
- Diana Rodríguez-Cala, Jana Fried, John RU Wilson, Katharina Dehnen-Schmutz, Seoleseng O Tshwenyane, Israel Legwaila. Ornamental horticulture in Southern Africa: strategic actions to address biological invasions. (2025). Environmental Management 75 (12), 3203-3219
- Diana Rodríguez-Cala, Jana Fried, John RU Wilson, Katharina Dehnen-Schmutz, Seoleseng O Tshwenyane, Israel Legwaila. Links between the ornamental sector and alien plants in Southern Africa. (2025). Geo: Geography and Environment 12 (1), 1-21.
- ?Israel A. Legwaila - ?Google Scholar
Dr Amogelang T Segwagwe
Senior Lecturer
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Dr Goitseone Malambane
Senior Lecturer
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Goitseone Malambane is a senior lecturer under the department of Crop and Soil Sciences teaching undergraduate and graduate students. The major teaching modules are crop production courses (field crop production, cereal crop production, Legume, oilseeds and fiber crops production, plant breeding and molecular biology courses (Plant biotechnology and food biotechnology). He also focuses on research and graduate student supervision for production and plant biology related research
- Agronomy
- Crop production
- Plant biotechnology
- Plant breeding
- Molecular biology
1. watermelon. UNESCO/TWAS 2021-2024
2. Water Use Efficiency and Grain Quality of Crops Under Water Deficit Conditions. SASSCAL
3. Millennium Seed Bank (MSB) and Useful Plants Project. Collection and characterization of important plant species in Botswana. Royal Botanical Garden (KEW)
4. BAMLINK. Molecular, Environmental and Nutritional Evaluation of Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranean L. Verdc.) for Food Production in Semi-Arid Africa and India). European union
5. Cowpeas Project: Morphological, physiological and molecular characterizations and conservation of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) landraces (cultivated and wild) found in Botswana
1. SASSCAL MIC Sustainable Food Security and Woodland Utilization for Drought Prone Communal Areas under Climate Change in SADC (SUSTAIN). - Project team: Prof F Meulenberg (PI), G Malambane (Co-PI), UNAM, BREMEN
2. MCKT 2023 Batlang – Evaluating of locals and exotic cereals crops for food security in Botswana - Team Member
3. WatsApp 2023 - Environmentally sound water management for sustainable agricultural practices along the Limpopo River catchment areas
1. Kelebonye Ramolekwa, Motlalepula Pholo-Tait, Travis Parker, Goitseone Malambane, Samodimo Ngwako, Lekgari Aatshwaelwe Lekgari (2025). Estimating genetic variability and heritability of Morpho-agronomic traits of M5 Cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) mutant lines. International Journal of Molecular Sciences 26 (15): 7543
2. Leonard M. Nuugulu, Goitseone Malambane, Otsoseng Oagile, Utlwang Batlang (2025). Characterisation of spider plant (Cleome gynandra L.) accessions for drought tolerance traits. Journal of Underutilized Crops Research
3. Metseyabeng N. Sehularo, Ponalo Kgwaakgwaa, Kelebogile Madumane, Lesego T. Sewelo, Rosemary Kobue-Lekalake, Utlwang Batlang, Goitseone Malambane (2025). Grafting susceptible watermelon on wild watermelon root stocks improves response to moisture stress and improves growth and yield (2025). Journal of Agricultural Science 17(6): 1-1
4. Oabile L Tlale, Bamphithi Tiroesele, Goitseone Malambane, Mitch Mosimanegape Legwaila (2025). Resistance of selected bean genotypes against the seed beetle Callosobruchus maculaus (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in storage. Journal of Entomology and Zoology studies 13(3): 207-211
5. Malambane G, Madumane K, Sewelo LT, Batlang U (2023). Drought stress tolerance mechanisms and their potential common indicators to salinity, insights from the wild watermelon (Citrullus lanatus): A review. Frontiers in Plant Science 13:1074395. DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.1074395
https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=z3G0KnoAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Goitseone-Malambane?ev=hdr_xprf
Mr Kabelo Segobye
Lecturer
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Mr Boipuso Kedikanetswe
Instructor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
MR Boipuso Kedikanetswe is an instructor in Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources in Crop and Soil Sciences department.He teaches Courses in the field of Crop Physiology, Agronomy and horticulture in undergraduate classes and Supervise undergraduate students
Agronomy
Horticulture
Crop physiology,
Principle of crop Production,
Field Crop Production,
Fruit and Vegetable Production,
Plant Propagation
Cereal Development Project aiming at coming up with new rice crop varieties that are able to withstand current climate change effects and produce quality yields to improve food situation in Botswana.
1. B. Kedikanetswe (2012) Effects of plant population on growth, development and oil yield of safflower (carthamus tinctorious L). Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Scholar article
2. V Emongor, O Oagile, B Kedikanetswe (2013) Effects of plant population on growth, development and oil yield of safflower. Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology. B 3 (5B), 321
3. VE Emongor, O Oagile, B Kedikanetswe (2013) Effects of plant population and season on growth and development of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) as an ornamental plant. International Symposium on Ornamentals in Africa 1077, 35-45
Bamphithi Tiroesele
Associate Professor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Entomology
1. RUFORUM safflower project
2. Horticultural postharvest losses project SASSCAL #335
3. BRASSICAE PROJECT
4. MORAMA BEAN PROJECT
5. USEFUL PLANTS PROJECT
6. The Desert Margins Program
1. SASSCAL-RIBS project
2. Hemp research project
1. Sam, G.A., Tiroesele, B., Omoloye, A.A. and Legwaila, M.M. 2025. Laboratory evaluation of selected biopesticides against fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith) larvae in Botswana. Journal of Entomology and Zoology Studies, 13(4): 210-215
2. Tlale, O.L, Tiroesele, B., Malambane, G. and Legwaila, M.M. 2025. Resistance of selected bean genotypes against the seed beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in storage. Journal of Entomology and Zoology Studies, 13(3): 207-211
3. Legwaila1, M.M., Kgoroebutswe, T., Makate, N. and Tiroesele, B. 2025. Detoxification Enzymes in the carmine spider mite, Tetranychus Cinnabarinus Boisduval. Indian Journal of Entomology. DOI: 10.55446/IJE.2025.2979
4. Sam, G.A., Tiroesele, B., Omoloye, A.A. and Legwaila, M.M. 2025. Efficacy of Ampligo and Cyperfos against fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) Larvae. Journal of Entomology. DOI.: 10.55446/IJE.2025.3122
5. Emongor, V.E., Setshogela, P.B. and B. Tiroesele and. 2024. Influence of genotype and time of harvest on Flores yield, carthamin and carthamidin contents, and dye index of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.). Journal of Medicinal Plants Studies, 12(6): 111-122.
6. Legwaila, M.M., Obopile, M. and Tiroesele, B. 2023. Economic Injury level and yield loss assessment for carmine spider mite (Tetranychus cinnabarinus Boisduval) on tomato, Solanum lycopersicum, under greenhouse conditions. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 19(4): 428-436
7. Legwaila, M.M., Obopile, M. and Tiroesele, B. 2022. Efficacy of Abamectin against adult spider mite, Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Acari: Tetranychidae) on tomato in Botswana. Journal of Entomology and Zoology Studies, 10(5): 39-43
8.Legwaila, M.M., Obopile, M. and Tiroesele, B. 2022. Laboratory evaluation of chlorfenapyr for control of carmine spider mite, Tetranychus cinnabarinus on tomato in Botswana. Journal of Entomology and Zoology Studies, 10(6): 28-3
9. Tlale, O.L, Tiroesele, B., Malambane, G. and Legwaila, M.M. 2025. Bioefficacy of some ground plant powders against the seed beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in storage. International Journal of Zoology Studies, 10(3): 50-5
10. Emongor, V. E., Tiroesele, B. and Moatshe, O. M. (2023). Enhancing safflower Production and Product Development for Food Security and Improving Incomes of Small-scale Farmers in Botswana. In Lindow, M., Egeru, A., & Leresche, K. M. (Eds.), RUFORUM’s Community Action Research Platform (CARP) Approach Routledge Publishers, Republic of South Africa (Book under publication) (Book Chapter)
Dr Thebeetsile Scott Moroke
Senior Lecturer
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Dr Moroke is a Senior Lecture in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences. He has a total of over 30 years of teaching and doing research in the field of Soil and Water Management courses at BUAN and the Department of Agricultural Research in Ministry of Agriculture. where is participated in research involving soil tillage, soil fertility evaluation and soil testing. Dr Moroke has supervised graduate and undergraduate research projects. He has worked in collaboration projects involving the Ministry of Agriculture and/or local and international institutions
- Introduction to Soil Science,
- Soil Science,
- Soil-plant Relation,
- Soil Physics,
- Soil Genesis Morphology and Classification,
- Plant Nutrition
- Soil and water management
1. Development and adoption of climate resilient cereal farming systems across Botswana’s landscapes. Ministry of Communication, Knowledge and Technology, Government of Botswana.
2. Evaluation of rice varieties for adaptation to different agroecological regions in Botswana. BUAN and African Agriculture Pty Ltd.
3. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Technical Cooperation Programme, Project No. BOT5007: Using isotopic nuclear and other conventional techniques to support the development of improved soil and water management techniques to increase crop production.
4. Water Use Efficiency and Grain Quality of Crops Under Water Deficit Conditions: Task ID: SASSCAL Task 308.
5. Botswana Ecohealth project: an ecohealth approach to flood recession (molapo) farming to reduceclimate change vulnerability in Okavango Delta, Botswana.
6. Botswana-Japan Jatropha Research Project (BoJJaRP), an Information-based optimization of jatropha biomass energy production in frost and drought-prone regions of Botswana, which was intended to assist the country to diversify energy supply (2011-2016). Collaboration between Japan International Cooperation (JICA), Energy Affairs Division (EAD) in the Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources (MMEWR) / Department of Agricultural Research (DAR) in the Ministry of Agriculture / University of Botswana (UB).
7. Watermelon biology and biotechnology and distribution plant types (seed, cooking, fresh and wild types) in semiarid climate of Botswana. Collaboration project between Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST), National University Corporation, Nara-ken, Japan and Department of Agricultural Research, MoA.
8. Soil mapping and advisory services project of Botswana (FAO/BOT/85/011). Soil physical determinations and laboratory management, soil data analysis for soil mapping purposes by FAO/UNDP and Division of Land Utilization of MoA.
9. National tillage, fertilizer and water conservation trials project. Collaboration project between International Sorghum and Millet. (INTSORMIL)/USDAID and Department ofAgricultural Research (DAR).
10. Control of Cynodon Dactylon using tillage and herbicides in smallholder farms in Southeastern Botswana Collaboration project between Overseas Development Agency (ODA), UK and Department of Agric Research, MoA.
11. Influence of sowing date and environmental factors on the developmentand yield of bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea
1. Adaptation of upland rice varieties in Botswana
2. Advancing circular bioeconomy in cropping systems of Botswana.
3. Evaluating organic fertilizers for improving soil health and crop yield.
- Suh, C.N., R. Tsheko. B. Kayombo and T.S. Moroke. (2023). Analysis of land cover land use change in the greater Gaborone area of South Eastern Botswana. Acta Ecologica Sinica 43(6):1080-1089.
- Suh, C.N., R. Tsheko. B. Kayombo and T.S. Moroke. (2022). Variation of soil organic carbon across different land covers and land uses in greater Gaborone region of Botswana. World Journal of Advanced Engineering Technology and Sciences 7(2):97-112.
- K. Kashe, D. Ketumile, P. Kristiansen, C. Mahilo and T.S. Moroke. (2020). Evaluation of pre-emergence herbicides for weed control in maize. Welwitschia International Journal of Agricultural Sciences (WIJAS) 2:5-19.
- Mashungwa, G.N., T.S. Moroke, Kgosiesele, E. and Kashe, K. (2019). Grain legume production and their potential for sustainable agriculture in Botswana between 2008 and 2015 – A review. Botswana Journal of Agriculture and Applied Sciences 13 (Issue 1 – Special): 80–90.
- Kashe, K., O. Mogobe, T.S. Moroke, M. Murray-Hudson. (2015). Evaluation of maize yield in flood recession farming in Okavango Delta. African Journal of Agricultural Research 10 : 1874-1879.
- Moroke, T.S., R.C. Schwartz, K.W. Brown, and A.S.R. Juo. (2011). Water use efficiency of cowpea, sorghum and sunflower under reduced tillage. Soil & Tillage Research 112: 76-84.
- Moroke, T.S., F. Pule-Meulenberg, M. Mzuku, C. Patrick and K. Kashe. (2010). Water harvesting and conservation techniques for dryland crop production in Botswana: A Review. AMA 41:9-16.
- Moroke, T.S., T. Mpuisang and A. Sesay. (2010). Comparison of field and laboratory measured upper limit of plant available water of Haplic Lixisol in southeastern Botswana. Bots. J. Agric. and Applied Sci. 6(1): 73-80.A. Sesay, T. Mpuisang, T.S. Moroke, I. Al-Shareef, H.J. Chepete and B. Moseki. (2010). Preliminary assessment of bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranean L.) landraces for temperature and water stress tolerance under field conditions in Botswana. S. Afr. Soil and Plant 27(4): 312-321.
- Moroke, T.S., O. Dikinya, C. Patrick. (2009). Comparative assessment of water infiltration of soils under different tillage systems in eastern Botswana. Chemistry and Physics of the Earth J. 34: 316-323.
- Moroke, T.S., R.C. Schwartz, K.W. Brown, and A.S.R. Juo. (2005). Soil water depletion and root distribution of three dryland crops. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 69:197-205
Mrs Christinah Matsuane
Senior Lecturer
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Dr Matsuane is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, BUAN. She has teaching experience of more than 10 years in the field of fruit and vegetable production. She lectures undergraduate students and supervises their research projects. During her postgraduate studies, she worked on production and its nutrition of papaya and strawberries. She was recently nominated as a research scholar by the Young Female Scientist Programme (UNCTAD) where she researched on gibberellin effects on grapes quality at Okayama University, Japan.
- Horticulture
- Fruit and Vegetable Production,
- Postharvest Physiology
- Plant Propagation
Hemp research project
Matsuane, C., Kiage, B.N., Karanja, J., Kavoo, A.M. & Rimberia, F.K. (2023). Hypolipidaemic Effects of Papaya (Carica papaya L.) Juice on Rats Fed on a High Fat and Fructose Diet. Journal of Nutritional Science, 12(e76); 1-6
Matsuane, C., Kavoo, A.M., Kiage, B.N., Karanja, J. & Rimberia, F.K. (2023). Quality Changes in Papaya Fruit Under Different Storage Temperatures and Duration. Journal of Agriculture, Science and Technology, 22(3): 64-78
Matsuane, C., Kavoo, A.M., Kiage, B.N., Karanja. J. & Rimberia, F.K. (2023). Nutrient Content and Biochemical Analysis of Papaya (Carica papaya L.) Hybrids Grown in Central Kenya. Plant Science Today, 10(2): 263–8
Matsuane, C., Oseni, T.O and Masarirambi, M.T. (2016). Effects of Gibberellic Acid on the Growth, Fruit Yield and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) in a subtropical environment. UNISWA Journal of Agriculture, 19:44-60
Matsuane, C., Oseni, T.O and Masarirambi, M.T. (2016). Effects of Crop Biolife on the Growth, Fruit Yield and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) in a subtropical environment. UNISWA Journal of Agriculture, 19: 61-77
https://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C5&q=christinah+matsuane&btnG=
Mrs Tlholego Maphane
Lecturer
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Mrs Connie Gwatidzo
Senior Instructor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Mrs Baganetsi Sebogisi
Senior Instructor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Mosimanegape Mitch Legwaila
Senior Research Fellow
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
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Dr Mosimanegape Mitch Legwaila is a Senior Research Fellow at the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources. He teaches and supervises undergraduate and graduate Entomology courses. Dr Legwaila is involved in research on the sustainable management of agricultural pests, and has published papers in international and regional peer-reviewed journals. He has been involved in various research projects such as the Insect Atlas Project, under funding from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). Dr Legwaila is one of the founders and organisers of the annual Botswana National Biodiversity Symposium, and has authored Symposium Books of Proceedings and Books of Abstracts for the symposia. He has conducted training workshops for Okavango communities on the Mungongo bean value. Dr Legwaila is a member of the National Committee on Climate Change (NCCC) which guides Botswana’s policy direction for climate change and mitigation, and has represented Botswana at the Conference of parties (COP28) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
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Areas of Specialisation
Crop Protection (Entomology)
Teaching Interests
General Entomology,
Forest and Range Entomology,
Economic entomology,
Pest of field and horticultural crops,
Principles of Crop Protection,
Insect pest management,
Integrated pest management (IPM),
Insecticide resistance management,
Biological pest control,
Emerging issues in plant health, I
nsect rearing techniques,
Basic techniques in plant health
1. Development and control of Cryptolestes ferrugineus (Steph.) and Oryzaephilus surinamensis(Linn.) on stored cereals and pulses under laboratory conditions in Gaborone, Botswana.
2. Global Biodiversity Information facility (GBIF), African Insect Atlas project –Digitization of Entomology Collection at the Natural History Museum, Botswana.
3. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Shaikarawe Agroforestry Project.
4. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Mungongo oil beneficiation project.5. UNDP/SGP Climate Change and mitigation project for Tsodilo village.
6. UNDP – Access Benefit Sharing Committee, Drafting of the Access Benefit Sharing draft policy for Botswana.
7. Useful Plants Project (UPP) for indigenous plants conservation funded by KEW Gardens.
8. Survey and Documentation of Natural Heritage of the Greater Tswapong Hills region9. A survey of Invasive alien plant species of Gaborone.
1. Bioefficacy of phytopesticidal extracts of Tagetes minuta (L.) and Melia azedarach (L.) as protectants of maize (Zea mays) against Fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda).
2. Fall armyworm and its natural enemies in Botswana: it's identification, occurrence and management.
3. Bio-ecology and management of the maize weevil, Sitophilus zea mais Motschulsky with selected ashes on stored maize in Botswana.
4. Varietal effects on the diversity and abundance of insect pests and viral disease of tomatoes in Botswana.
5. Survey and Documentation of Natural Heritage of the Tsodilo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
6. A survey of Edible Indigenous edible herbs of the Okavango Panhandle, North Eastern Botswana
1. Kgosietsile - Mfuma M., Makate N., Legwaila M. M. (2025). Evaluation of Combretum imberbe wood ash for control of Oryzaephilus surinamensis (Linn) on stored food commodities in Botswana. Journal of Entomology and Zoology Studies 2025; 13 (6): 184 – 190. https:/www.doi.org/10.22271/j.ento.2025.v13.i6c.9647.
2. Sam G. A., Tiroesele B., Omoloye A. A., and Legwaila M. M. (2025). Laboratory evaluation of selected biopesticides against fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith) larvae in Botswana. Journal of Entomology and Zoology Studies 2025; 13(4): 210-215. DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.22271/j.ento.2025.v13.i4c.9558.
3. Tlale O. L., Tiroesele B., Malambane G., Legwaila M. M. (2025). Bioefficacy of some ground plant powders against the seed beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in storage. International Journal of Zoology Studies. Volume 10, Issue 3, 2025, Page No. 50-54.
4. Kgosietsile - Mfuma M., Makate N., Legwaila M. M. (2025). Evaluation of Leadwood (Combretum imberbe) against Rusty red grain beetle (Cryptolestes ferrugineus) on stored grains. International Journal of Entomology Research. Volume 10, Issue 09, 2025, Page No. 75-81.
5. Sam G. A., Tiroesele B., Omoloye A. A., Legwaila M. M. (2025). Efficacy of Ampligo and Cyperfos against Fall Army Worm Spodoptera Frugiperda (J E Smith) Larvae. Indian Journal of Entomology. Online published Ref. No. e25122. DOI No.: 10.55446/IJE.2025.3122.
6. Tlale O. L., Tiroesele B., Malambane G., Legwaila M. M. (2025). Germination response of local bean genotypes to seed treatment with different ground plant powders. International Journal of Agriculture and Food Science 2025; 7(11): 89-93. DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.33545/2664844X.2025.v7.i11b.944.
7. Tlale O., Tiroesele B., Malambane G., Legwaila M. M. (2025). Resistance of selected bean genotypes against the seedbeetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in storage. Journal of Entomology and Zoology Studies. DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.22271/j.ento.2025.v13.i3c.9515.
8. Legwaila M. M., Kgoroebutswe T., Makate N., Tiroesele B. (2025). Detoxification Enzymes in the Carmine Spider Mite Tetranychus Cinnabarinus Boisduval. Indian Journal of Entomology. Online published Ref. No. e25979 DoI. No.: 10.55446/IJE.2025.2979.
9. Kgosietsile - Mfuma M., Makate N., Legwaila M. M. (2025). Bio-efficacy of M. oleifera leaf powder against Cryptolestes ferrugineus (Stephens) on stored cereals and pulses in Botswana. Acta Entomology and Zoology 2025; 6(1): 36-42.DOI: 10.33545/27080013.2025.v6.i1a.188.
10. Legwaila M. M. (2025). Knowledge, perceptions and management practices for Tuta absoluta (lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) on tomato in Botswana. Acta Entomology and Zoology 2025; 6(1): 07-16. DOI: https://doi.org/10.33545/27080013.2025.v6.i1a.183
Prof. Samodimo Ngwako
Associate Professor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Prof. Samodimo Ngwako has served as the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs and Research, Dean of Research and Graduate Studies and Head of Department for Crop and Soil Sciences. Prof Ngwako has almost 20 years of teaching and research in the fields of agriculture, and has taught courses in agronomy, plant breeding, biotechnology and seed production. Prof. Ngwako has supervised postgraduate students and attended and presented at conferences and workshops in Botswana, Japan, Tanzania, Indonesia, Mali, Sweden and United Kingdom.
Prof Ngwako has vast experience in university management in higher agricultural education, policy development and engagement, collaborations and partnership development and networking
- Plant breeding,
- biotechnology
- seed production
- Useful Plants Project (UPP) Project II
- Cultivation, value addition and marketing of climate smart emerging crops to improve food security.
- Water Use Efficiency and Grain Quality of Crops under Water Deficit Conditions.
- Making use of wild legumes to improve arable and livestock farming in Botswana.
- Increasing community awareness and utilization of indigenous grains to improve nutrition security and livelihoods in Botswana
- Interactive Use of Biochar and Permaculture (INBIOPERM) Approach to sustainable food production in Botswana, South Africa and Swaziland.
- Useful Plants Project (UPP) Project I
- Bambara groundnut (BAMLINK PROJECT)
- Characterization and QTL analysis of wild and cultivated watermelons.
- Breeding blackeye cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) for resistance to Alectra vogelli (L.) Benth in Botswana.
- Molecular Marker Assisted Backcross Breeding Cowpea (MABC) Research Project.
- Cowpea breeding for bruchid resistance.
- UPSCALE Project: Upscaling Graduates’ Employability Tracking through the implementation of special Dual Career paths in Botswana and Eswatini
Ramolekwa, K.; Pholo-Tait, M.; Parker, T.; Malambane, G.; Ngwako, S.; Lekgari, L. Estimating Genetic Variability and Heritability of Morpho-Agronomic Traits of M5 Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) Mutant Lines. Int. J. Mol. Sci.2025, 26, 7543. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157543.
Gaonosi, G.G.; Lekgari, L.; Mosupiemang, M.; Sehularo, M.N.; Tshegofatso, A.B.; Tiroesele, B.; Motlhaodi, T.; Ngwako, S.; Pholo-Tait, M. Phenotypic Screening and Marker-Assisted Validation of Sources of Aphis craccivora Koch Resistance in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.). Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26, 4406. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26094406.
Ramolekwa, K., Pholo-Tait, M., Ngwako, S., Malambane, G., Lekgari, L. (2024). Agronomic and Physicochemical Characterization of Gamma Irradiation on M4 Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp.) Mutants. Universal Journal of Agricultural Research, 12(5), 629-641. https://doi.org/10.13189/ujar.2024.120502.
Kgasudi, B. K., Ngwako, S., Malambane, G., Pholo_Tait, M., & Lekgari, L. A. (2024). Genetic Variability, Heritability, Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis of Growth and Yield Traits of Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp] Parental Genotypes and their F1 Crosses. European Journal of Agriculture and Food Sciences, 6(5), 17–28. https://doi.org/10.24018/ejfood.2024.6.5.821
Motlalepula Pholo-Tait, Thuto Kgetse, Gaone Nthabeleng Tsheko, Olerato Tsotlhe Thedi, Katso Lethola, Ebenezer Oteng Motlamme, Moagisi Innocent Ithuteng, Samodimo Ngwako (2022). Genotypic variation in response to drought stress is associated with biochemical and transcriptional regulation of ureides metabolism in common bean (Phaseolus vulgarisL.). Acta Agriculturae Slovenica, 188/2, 1-9. Doi:10.14720/aas.2022.118.2.2541.
C. Gwafila, U. Batlang and S. Ngwako (2019). Morphological and molecular characterization of Jatropha curcas L. germplasm in Botswana. African Journal of Biotechnology, 18(28): 726-734. DOI: 10.5897/AJB2019.16845. ISSN: 1684-5315.
N. Bernard, M. Losologolo, U. Batlang, S. Ngwako, G. N. Mashungwa, N. M. Tselaesele and F. Pule-Meulenberg (2017). Symbiotic performance of grain and wild herbaceous legumes in the Okavango Delta and Tswapong region of Botswana. Symbiosis, ISSN 0334-5114, https://doi.org/10.1007/s13199-017-0515-2.
O. Moatshe, P. Mashiqa, L. Lekgari and S. Ngwako (2015). Effect of planting date on yield of maize varieties grown in the north east region of Botswana. Crop Research, 49 (2): 8-11.
S. Ngwako, T. V. Balole and G. Malambane (2013). The effect of irrigation and planting date on the growth and yield of Bambara groundnut landraces. International Journal of Agriculture and Crop Sciences, 6 (3): 116-120.
P. Mashiqa, L. Lekgari and S. Ngwako (2013). Effect of plant density on yield and yield components of maize in Botswana. World of Sciences Journal, 1 (7): 173-179. ISSN: 2307-3071. http://engineerspress.com/pdf/WSJ/2013-07/a17%20_WSJ-131717_.pdf
Flora Pule-Meulenberg
Associate Professor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Prof. Meulenberg works at Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources. She holds a Doctor ate in Soil Science, She lectures to university students and conducts research. She supervises both undergraduate and graduate (MSc and PhD) students. She is a soil and plant scientist with an excellent background in soil chemistry and ecophysiology of beneficial soil microorganisms. Her research focus is in the soil-plant-water-microbe interactions and she is passionate about sustainable green solutions for soil health and soil fertility management. In the past four years, she has led projects ranging in nature from legume-microbes interactions to One Health (OH). In her spare time, Flora is a passionate farmer, experimenting in both arable and livestock production
Soil Science,
Soil ecology,
Soil microbiology,
Soil fertility and fertilisers,
Plant nutrition, environmental pollution and toxicology
- Development of management plans for Kasane and Chobe forest reserves, a consultancy
- Co-designing crop-livestock climate smart farming systems with local stakeholders in the Gantsi, Bobirwa and Botetei Districts of Botswana, a consultancy
- Making use of the wild legume resource to improve arable and livestock farming in Botswana, a research project1.
- Developing decision support simulation tools based on scientifically validated in indigenous/traditional and conventional knowledge for increasing agricultural production and food security in Africa, a research project
- Engaging urban and peri-urban farmers in sustainable soil nutrient management to enhance produce and environmental safety in Gaborone Environs in Botswana.
- Improving soil and water management options to optimize yields of selected crops
1. Sustainable Food Security and Woodland Utilization for Drought Prone Communal Areas under Climate Change in Sothern Africa
2. Rangeland improvement through bush control and sustainable intensification to mitigate climate change and improve livelihoods and food security in Southern Africa
3. Sustainable management of soil fertility
4. Capacitating One Health in Eastern and Southern Africa
1. Kgosimore, M., Mokhondo, N., Pfukenyi, D. M., Tlale, L., Sebolai, B., Segopolo, I., ... and Pule-Meulenberg, F*. (2024). Status of one health implementation in Botswana. One Health Cases, (2024), ohcs20240016.
2. Richards, S., Knight-Jones, T., Angombe, S., Becker, J., Bukachi, S. A., Chirenda, J., ... and Caron, A. (2024). Towards Institutionalization of One Health in Eastern and Southern Africa. One Health Cases, (2024), ohcs20240007.
3. Martínez-Hidalgo, P., Maymon, M., Pule-Meulenberg, F. and Hirsch, A. M. 2019. Engineering root microbiomes for healthier crops and soils using beneficial, environmentally safe bacteria. Canadian Journal of Microbiology doi/pdfplus/10.1139/cjm-2018-0315
4. Batisani N., Pule-Meulenberg F., Batlang U., Matteoli F., Tselaesele N. 2020. Retooling Smallholder Farming Systems for Climate Change Resilience Across Botswana Arid Zones. African Handbook of Climate Change Adaptation. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-42091-8_168-1
5. Batisani N., Pule-Meulenberg F., Batlang U., Matteoli F., Tselaesele N. 2020. Retooling Smallholder Farming Systems for Climate Change Resilience Across Botswana Arid Zones. African Handbook of Climate Change Adaptation. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-42091-8_168-1
6. Pule-Meulenberg, F*., Obopile, M., Chimwamurombe, P. Bernard, N., Losologolo, M., Hurek, T., Sarkar, A., Batlang, U., Ngwako, S., Schmiedel, U., Nanyeni, L., Mashungwa, G., Tselaesele, N. and Reinhold-Hurek, B. 2018. Diversity of wild herbaceous legumes in Southern Africa, their associated root nodule bacteria and insect pests. In: Climate change and adaptive land management in southern Africa – assessments, changes, challenges and solutions (ed. By Revermann, R., Krewenka, K.M., Schmiedel U., Olwoch, J.M., Helmschrot, J. and Jurgens, N), pp 257-264, Biodiversity & Ecology, 6, Klaus Hess Publishers, Gottingen & Windhoek.
Dr Patrick Mashiqa
Senior Research Fellow
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Dr. P. Mashiqa is a Senior Research Fellow at the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN). He holds a BSc in Agricultural Education (2000), an MSc in Crop Science (2010), and a PhD in Crop Science- Agronomy (2020), all from BUAN.
He teaches Courses in the field of Crop Physiology and Agronomy, and Supervise undergraduate and graduate students. He is a notable Botswana National Research Excellence Award Winner 2023, and research on agronomic aspects of crops aiming to release resilient drought tolerant varieties to farmers in Botswana in support of Ministry of Lands and Agriculture Programs of Lemang Dijo and the Impact Accelerator Subsidy (IAS).Research on various crops, including cereals( wheat, maize, sorghum, millet, rice), Horticultural crops (safflower, sweet potatoes, Iris potato, thepe, tumeric, ginger), Oil and legumes (beans, groundnuts, mungbean. In collaboration with an international company, I successfully pitched an agricultural export and value-chain development initiative targeting EU markets for high-value crops produced by farmers in Botswana and Zimbabwe, with a consultancy portfolio valued at over BWP 70 million. The initiative is expected to drive job creation for Batswana, including BUAN graduates, and aligns strongly with the University’s mandate for BUAN staff impact in support of Botswana Vision objectives.
In response to local farmers’ business needs, I led consultancy services for the design and implementation of a new farm business model focused on high-value export crops, with a total investment value exceeding BWP 100 million, strengthening commercial viability and market access for local producers.
Plant Physiology
Agronomy
Crop Physiology,
Cereal Grain Production
Plant breeding
• SAFFLOWER PROJECT where we came up with safflower genotypes to be released as Botswana varieties.
•BEAN PROJECT where we came up with adaptable bean varieties to Botswana conditions
•CYMMYT WHEAT PROJECT where we came out with wheat genotypes to be released as varieties for Botswana conditions
- CEREALS PROJECT aimed at coming up with new crop varieties that are able to withstand current climate change effects and produce quality yields to improve food situation in Botswana. Includes generation of relevant cropping systems and value addition production using cereals like rice, wheat, millets, maize and sorghum.
- Regenerate various landraces of the cereal crops to produce seed to be multiplied for BW GOVERNMENT Lemang Dijo Programme ,which also supportsuse of (OPVs) and CEREALS PROJECT is assisting.
- Supervise Under graduates and graduates Students to drive these important assignments under Department of Crop & Soil Science.
- Researcher in SAFFLOWER RESEARCH PROJECT, which also involves in teaching farmers and Extension agents about safflower production and value chain for unlocking local and export market
- Researcher in HEMP RESEARCH PROJECT
Dr Onkgolotse G. Moatshe-Mashiqa
Senior Research Fellow
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
An award-winning horticultural scientist and Senior Research Fellow in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (Horticulture Section) at the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN). A recipient of the 2023 Botswana National Research Excellence Award in Agriculture. She has co-supervised MSc candidate and continues to mentor emerging scientists in applied horticultural innovation. She is a core member of BUAN’s safflower research team. Her leadership extends to national and international platforms, serving on technical working groups including Botswana’s Electron-Beam Feasibility Study, the National Antimicrobial Resistance Team, and FAO’s One Crop One Commodity Initiative. Plays arolein scholarly publishing as an Editorial member & Reviewer for the Journal of Agricultural Science, and as a peer reviewer for Crop and Plant Scienceand other related journals. Contributed to national seed regulation standards & extension manuals that shape Botswana’s agricultural policy and farmer outreach. Her expertise has been sought in global forums, the 44th Session of the Food and Agriculture Conference in Rome and the Brazil–Africa Dialogue on Food Security in Brasília. She holds PhD in Crop Science-Horticulture/ 2019,MSc Crop Science-Horticulture, BSc-Agriculture Education from BUAN/University of Botswana. She embodies a visionary & collaborative leadership, aligning scientific research with national development goals and driving Botswana’s transformation into a hub for sustainable agricultural innovation
1. Postharvest Physiology and Technology
2. Controlled Environment Horticulture
3. Fruit & Vegetable Production related Courses
- -RUFORUM Safflower Project
- -African Indigenous Leafy Vegetable Research
- -CIAT-Bean Research
- -Morula fruit physiology and chemical thinning technologies
- -Vegetable fertility trials using isotopes (N15)
- Safflower Project
- -Hemp Research Project
- -National Food Irradiation Feasibility Study
- -One crop One Priority (OCOP): Potato
Mr Thembinkosi Mathowa
Chief Technician
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Mr. Thembinkosi Mathowa is working as a Chief Technician in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS), Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN). He graduated with a Master of Science degree (MSc) in Agriculture from Khon Kaen University (KKU) in Thailand via 100% research conferred in May 2012, Bachelor of Science degree (BSc) in Agricultural Education from University of Botswana (UB) conferred in October 2006 and a Diploma in Horticulture from UB conferred in October 2003. He has been exposed to various laboratory and field operations as well as instruments locally and abroad since he joined the University in 2007. He has vast experience working in both open field and controlled environments such as the greenhouse and the net shade. Mr. Mathowa has assisted in teaching of controlled environment, ornamental horticulture, fruit and vegetable production courses among others in the Department. He has participated in various Departmental/University/National research projects. His research interests are on environmental, plant and soil sciences. His key areas of expertise are performing plant propagation techniques (sexual and asexual) and application of techniques developed for controlled environment agriculture (CEA). He has published chapters/articles in refereed books and journalsHe has made oral and poster presentations at national and international symposiums/conferences. He has reviewed papers for several regional and international refereed journals.
Controlled Environment Horticulture,
Ornamental Horticulture,
Fruit and Vegetable Production
Landscape Horticulture,
Plant Propagation
Management of Agricultural Waste and Residues through Production and Utilization of Compost Fertilizer for Small Scale Farmers. National Environment Fund (NEF), Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism (MEWT), Botswana Government
Development and adoption of improved and climate resilient cereal farming systems across Botswana’s landscapes. The Ministry of Communications and Innovation (MCI), Botswana Government
1. Mojeremane, W., Mmolotsi, R.M., Rampart, M., Teketay, D., Kakambi, O., Makoi, T.I., Kopong, I., Makgobota, K., Mathowa, T., Neo-Mahupeleng, G. and Sianga, K. 2025. Evaluating Effects of Pre-sowing Treatments on Germination of Brachystegia boehmii and Piliostigma thonningii. Advances in Global Change Research Volume 75, Environmental Change and Biodiversity Conservation in sub-Saharan Africa, Chapter 15, Volume 1, Springer: 284-300; https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-73136-5
2. Mojeremane, W., Mathowa, T., Moseki, O., Legwaila, G.M and Machacha, S. 2019. Effect of Different Organic Fertilizer Application Rates on Yield and Yield Attributes of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum). New Perspectives in Agriculture and Crop Science, Chapter 3, Vol. 1: 24-33; https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/npacs/v1
3. Teketay, D., Mafote T., Puodipe, Mompati, P.B., Nkoborwane, N., Mathowa, T and Mojeremane, W. 2021. Reproductive traits that foster the invasion of four alien plant species in Botswana. In Invasive Alien Species, Chapter 2, Vol. 1, Wiley-Blackwell, 1472 pp; ISBN: 978-1-119-60702-1.
4. Mojeremane, W., Makgobota, K., Mathowa, T., Obusitswe, K., Rampart, M., Teketay, D., Neo-Mahupeleng, G., Makoi, T and Mmolotsi, R. 2021. Evaluation of dormancy-breaking treatments on seed germination of two leguminous tree species from Chobe District, Northern Botswana. Forestry Ideas, Vol. 27, No 2 (62): 380-395.
5. Legwaila, I.A., Chunga, B and Mathowa, T. 2020. Productivity of Cynodon dactylon (bermudagrass) grown on copper and nickel mine tailings amended with sewage sludge. Acta Hortic. 1279. ISHS 2020: 147-152; DOI 10.17660/ActaHortic.2020.1279.22
6. Mmolutsi, G.G., Matsuane, C., Mojeremane, W., Mathowa, T and Teketay, D. 2020. Application and use of pre-sowing treatment methods to improve germination of Vachellia karroo (Hayne) Banfi & Galasso. Agriculture and Forestry Journal 4(1): 47-54.
7. Mathowa, T., Tshipinare, K., Mojeremane, W., Legwaila, G.M and Oagile, O. 2017. Effect of growing media on growth and development of sweet paper (Capsicum annum L.) seedlings. Journal of Applied Horticulture 19(3): 200-204.
8. Mathowa, T., Tshegofatso, N., Mojeremane, W., Matsuane, C., Legwaila, G.M and Oagile, O. 2016. Effect of Commercial Growing Media on Emergence, Growth and Development of Tomato Seedlings. International Journal of Agronomy and Agricultural Research 9(1): 83-91.
9. Oagile, O., Gabolemogwe, P., Matsuane, C and Mathowa, T. 2016. Effect of Container Size on the Growth and Development of Tomato Seedlings. International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences 5(4): 890-896.
10. Mathowa, T., Chinachit, W., Yangyuen, P and Isarangkool Na Ayutthaya, S. 2014. Influence of Irrigation Regime on Some Growth Characteristics and Water Use Efficiency of Native Common Bermuda Grass (Cynodon dactylon L.) Maintained as Turfgrass. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 1025: 163-172. Available online at: http://www.actahort.org/books/1025/1025_24.htm
Gaesejwe Bagwasi
Senior Lecturer
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Gaesejwe Bagwasi is a qualified and experienced agronomist with a strong research background and dedication to education. He holds a Doctoral degree in Agronomy and currently working as a Lecturer at the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN), where he leverages his expertise to teach undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various areas of agronomy and crop ecology.
1. Core Agronomy and Crop Management
2. Crop Ecology and Environmental Interaction
3.Technology and Precision Agriculture
4.Sustainability and Resource Management
1.SASSCAL Task 308 (2015 – 2018) – Water use efficiency and grain quality of crops under water deficit1.
1. SASSCAL 2.0 Sustainable management of soil fertility)
2. BW-NEA (Botswana National Ecosystem Assessment)
3. BAVE (BUAN Adopted Village Extension)
1. Bagwasi, G., Chinnamuthu, C.R., Arthanari, P.M., Malarvizhi, P. and Chandrasekhar, C.N. 2021. Response of Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] as Succeeding crop to Residual effect of Extreme Levels of Atrazine Administered in Preceding Maize (Zea mays L.). Legume Research. DOI: 10.18805/LR-4710.
2. Gaesejwe Bagwasi, C.R. Chinnamuthu, P. Murali Arthanari, C. Bharathi, P. Malarvizhi and C.N. Chandrasekhar. 2021. Dissipation dynamics of atrazine in soil under irrigated maize-cowpea cropping system. The Pharma Innovation, 10(8): 922 – 927.
3. Bagwasi G, Agenbag GA, Swanepoel PA. 2020. Effect of salinity on the germination of wheat and barley in South Africa. Crop, Forage & Turfgrass Mgmt. 6(1). https://doi.org/10.1002/cft2.20069
4. Bagwasi G. and Chinnamuthu C.R. 2020. Employment of blockchain technology in agriculture and food sector – A review. International Journal of Advanced Research, 8(6): 1167 – 1174.
5. Bagwasi G. and Chinnamuthu C.R. 2020. Camelina (Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz): An underutilized crop as an alternative feedstock for biodiesel production – A review. International Journal of Agricultural Science and Research, 10(4): 81 – 88.
Batlang, U. C. King Jr. S. Ngwako. C. Nkomazana, G. Malambane. T.Mpuisang, T.S. Moroke, G.N. Mashungwa, G. Bagwasi, R. Lekalake-Kobue, F. Pule-Meulenberg, Ng’uni, D. & Munkombwe, G. (2018) Germplasm evaluation for climate adaptation and drought tolerance: The cases of local varieties of maize in Zambia and cowpea in Botswana. In: Climate change and adaptive land management in southern Africa – assessments, changes, challenges, and solutions (ed. by Revermann, R., Krewenka, K.M., Schmiedel, U., Olwoch, J.M., Helmschrot, J. & Jürgens, N.), pp. 272-281, Biodiversity & Ecology, 6, Klaus Hess Publishers, Göttingen & Windhoek. doi:10.7809/b-e.00334
Ms Galalea Gillian Gaonosi
Laboratory Attendant
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Ms Galalea Gillian Gaonosi is an Agricultural scientist with over five years of laboratory and research experience, working towards specializing in crop protection, entomology, and plant resistance to biotic stress. Her academic and professional work focuses on conventional and molecular breeding of underutilized legumes, with particular emphasis on reducing yield losses through resistance to insect pests.
Plant Protection (Entomology)courses
Molecular Marker Assisted Backcross Breeding Cowpea (MABC) Research Project.
1. Application and use of presowing treatment methods to improve germination of Vachellia karroo (Hayne) Banfi & Galasso.
CABI Digital Library.
2. Phenotypic Screening and Marker-Assisted Validation of Sources of Aphis craccivora Koch Resistance in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.).
International Journal of Molecular Sciences, MDPI.
Tebogo Keabetswe
Technician
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Tebogo Keabetswe holds a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Crop Science from University of Botswana and a Master of Science (MSc) in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology and Innovation (PAUSTI-Kenya). Their academic training has equipped them with expertise in crop production, soil science, biotechnology, molecular research techniques, and sustainable agricultural development.
Passionate about agricultural transformation and scientific advancement, Tebogo Keabetswe committed to supporting research and innovation that contribute to food security, environmental sustainability, and the growth of the agricultural sector in Botswana and beyond.
- Controlled environment horticulture
- Vegetable production
- Plant propagation
- Fruit production
- Floriculture
- Postharvest physiology and technology
Galebotse Mathengwane
Senior Technician
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Mr Galebotse Mathengwane is Senior Technician in CSS holding BSc (Agriculture) and MSc Plant Genetic Manipulation
Agronomy
Lorato Lekorwe
Senior Technician
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Lerato Lekorwe is a Senior Technician in Crops and Soil Science Department Holding BSc in Crop Science stream Horticulture and Higher Diploma in Horticulture.
PLANT Protection (Plant Pathology)
- Susceptibility of three Brassica Crops to infection of Turnip Mosaic Virus
Ms Tlholego Maphane
lecturer
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS))
Tlholego Maphane is a lecturer at the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) from the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences. She holds an MSc in Plant Health from Gent University (Belgium), specializing in Nematology, attained in 2014, and a BSc in Molecular Biology and Conservation Biology at Murdoch University in 2005. Mrs Maphane is a strong phytopathology professional with a keen interest in disease diagnostics and management. She has a lot of experience in both field and laboratory work that she gained over the 17 years of employment with BUAN in addition to her formal training. Her keen interest is in biological control of plant pests and maintenance of good soil and environmental health. She therefore seeks to find biological control agents endemic to Botswana to alleviate reliance on pesticides in managing pests of economic importance in the country. In line with One Health approach, it is important to inform the nation about the importance of healthy soils and the associated soil microflora, especially nematodes, and how they can enhance the soil.
- Introduction to Crop Pests,
- General Pathology,
- Forest and Range Pathology,
- Diseases of horticultural and filed crops,
- Principles of Crop Protection,
- Techniques in Crop Protection,
- Integrated pest management (IPM),
- Insecticide resistance management,
- Biological pest control,
- Emerging issues in plant health,
- Insect rearing techniques,
- Basic techniques in plant health
· BRASSICAE PROJECT
· INTSORMIL SORGHUMA PROJECT
· MUKWA PROJECT
Development and adoption of improved and climate resilient cereal farming systems across Botswana’s landscapes. The Ministry of Communications and Innovation (MCI), Botswana Government



