Plant Health and Crop Research - Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Blue Economy

Plant Health and Crop Research Division

The Plant Health and Crop Research Division is dedicated to advancing agricultural sustainability, productivity and resilience. The Division is comprised of two sections; Plant Health Section and Crop Research Section. The Crop Research Section is further organized into the Crop Research Unit, Tropical Fruit Nursery and Rootcrop Unit, and the Drainage and Irrigation Unit. Through a holistic approach, the division strives to address emerging challenges in plant health, contribute to food security, and promote environmentally sustainable agricultural practices for the benefit of both local communities and the broader agricultural sector.

Vision

To become a center of excellence delivering innovation and technologies for the country’s food and agricultural sectors.

Mission

To contribute to the sustainable development of the country through the generation, diffusion and application of knowledge and technology in the field of agriculture.

Strategic Goals

To contribute towards food and nutrition security through the development of innovations that can contribute to sustainable, climate resilient value chains.
To translate research outputs in order to generate knowledge, facilitate decision making and contribute to the transformation in the agriculture sector.
To generate knowledge and technologies that will enhance the efficiencies in crop based agriculture.
To improve productivity, production, biosecurity, competitiveness and sustainability of crop-based agriculture.
To generate knowledge, solutions and technologies for food safety, quality and improved efficiencies in the agriculture value chain.
To contribute towards enabling the country to adapt and respond to climate change impacts.
To generate knowledge and technologies for the conservation and utilization of natural resources.

Main Objectives

To provide for the research and development needs of the agriculture of the country as identified in national plans and policies.
To provide appropriate research and development services to the agricultural sector.
To provide and extend the application of new technologies in the production, processing, storage and distribution of agricultural produce of the country.
To pursue for specified long-term period of agricultural research in pertinent areas.
To provide for the coordination and integration of the research and development efforts of the country.
To undertake training to facilitate the development of the relevant research by any institution or individuals of the country.

Division Structure

Plant Health Section

The objective of the Plant Health Section, specifically the Pest and Disease Surveillance, Control, and Laboratory Diagnostics Section, is to serve as the post-border arm of Biosecurity services. This role involves monitoring and surveying selected pest and disease populations, conducting emergency control operations, and diagnosing and analyzing samples. The section also provides recommendations and advice on pest management to farmers and the public, promoting sustainable practices that enhance crop production and local food security.

Crop Research Section

The Crop Research Section drives research and development for improved crop productivity, sustainability and resilience, and is organized into specialized units to support farmers and national food security.

Crop Research Unit

Committed to improving crop productivity and sustainability through research in key thematic areas including Crop Nutrition and Soil Fertility Management, Pest and Disease Management, and Variety Screening to advance tailored and efficient practices for local farmers.

Plant nursery and Root Crop Unit

Ensures a consistent supply of fruit trees, seedlings, and root crops for farmers and backyard gardeners. Supports conservation of plant genetic resources, agroforestry initiatives, and sustained availability of vital plant diversity to strengthen resilience and food security.

Drainage, Irrigation & Control Environment Unit

Provides and maintains irrigation and drainage infrastructure for efficient water management, and offers technical support and guidance for greenhouse/shadehouse development to enable sustainable crop production.

Soil and Plant Diagnostic Laboratory

Assesses soil fertility, plant nutrient levels, soil physical properties, and water quality. Determines fertility and water status to optimize crop production, promote sustainable practices, guide responsible input use, and safeguard the environment while maximizing productivity.