Phytosanitary Research and Development

Advancing Scientific Knowledge and Innovation

AU-IAPSC promotes applied research and innovation to strengthen plant protection systems across Africa. This includes research on pest biology, disease epidemiology, risk pathways, and sustainable control methods.

Key activities include:

  • Supporting pest risk analysis and scientific assessments.
  • Promoting integrated pest management (IPM) and good agricultural practices.
  • Encouraging the development of pest-resistant crop varieties.
  • Facilitating evidence-based decision-making for plant health interventions.

These efforts enhance the continent’s ability to respond to emerging and transboundary plant health threats .

Early Warning, Surveillance, and Risk Prediction

AU-IAPSC strengthens continental early warning systems to detect and respond to pest outbreaks and invasive species.

This function involves:

  • Coordinating pest and disease surveillance networks.
  • Supporting forecasting and predictive modelling.
  • Integrating climate and weather data into risk assessments.
  • Disseminating alerts and advisories to stakeholders.
  • Supporting preparedness and emergency response mechanisms.

These systems enable timely interventions and reduce economic and environmental losses .

Strengthening Plant Health Infrastructure

The Council works with Member States to improve phytosanitary infrastructure and operational capacity, including:

  • Regulatory and legislative frameworks.
  • Diagnostic and reference laboratories.
  • Quarantine and inspection facilities.
  • Monitoring and surveillance systems.
  • Research and development platforms.
  • Communication and information management systems.

By strengthening these foundations, AU-IAPSC enhances national and regional readiness to manage plant health risks effectively .