Prof Alan Gardiner giving a Public Lecture on Mopane Worm Use Across South-Central Africa
The Faculty of Science, Engineering and Agriculture on 12 September 2025 at UNIVEN recently arranged a public lecture by Prof Alan Gardiner, Head of the Applied Learning Unit at the Southern African Wildlife College. Prof Gardiner lecture, titled “Mopane Worm Use Across South-Central Africa,” offered an in-depth exploration of the ecological, cultural, and economic significance of mopane worms (Gonimbrasia belina) and other edible caterpillars such as Serinaphora (Cirina forda) across the region. The lecture took place in Lab FF017 of the Life Science Building.
Prof Gardiner began by drawing attention to the relative importance of Serinaphora, noting that it is often overlooked in academic literature despite being more widely distributed and available in greater quantities than the mopane worm. “It should be the other way around,” he remarked, stressing the need for more research into this species.
He then outlined the distribution of mopane worms, explaining their polyphagous nature and adaptability to multiple host plants, even noting that they can be fed apples. Mopane worms are particularly concentrated in northern South Africa but play an essential role across the region as a seasonal food source.
Prof Gardiner shared a vivid account of the communal aspect of mopane worm harvesting. Across Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and South Africa, women and children often set up temporary camps during the harvest season, working together to collect, squeeze, and prepare the caterpillars. These practices, he emphasised, are remarkably similar across borders, reflecting shared cultural traditions.
The lecture was richly illustrated with examples of harvesting and processing, from hand-squeezing techniques to cooking and drying methods. Prof Gardiner also highlighted that quality is often compromised when caterpillars are roasted directly on coals, as this method prioritises speed over hygiene and results in lower nutritional value.
A major theme of the lecture was governance. Access to mopane worm harvesting areas varies widely, particularly in South Africa, much of the land is privately owned, and farmers often charge harvesters a fee to access their property. In Botswana, harvesting is largely regulated by the government, which issues licenses and enforces seasonal restrictions to prevent premature harvesting.
Prof Gardiner cautioned against the increasing problem of early harvesting, which results in lower protein yields and threatens population sustainability. He also addressed challenges such as contamination from livestock and poultry in harvesting areas, poor storage practices, and limited enforcement of existing bylaws.
He noted that the mopane worm trade is a significant economic activity, with tons of dried caterpillars transported to markets, particularly Johannesburg, generating millions of rands annually. However, producers often have little bargaining power, relying on traders who dictate prices.
In closing of the lecture, Prof Gardiner called for research and policy action, stronger governance systems, improved data collection, and investment in sustainable harvesting practices. He stressed that woodlands are declining rapidly, posing a risk to mopane worm populations and the communities that depend on them.
“This is not just about feeding people once a year during an outbreak,” he said. “This is about ensuring that families continue to have access to a reliable, nutritious food source and that the trade remains viable for future generations.”
Prof Gardiner’s lecture left attendees with a deeper understanding of the ecological and socioeconomic complexity surrounding mopane worm use and highlighted the urgent need for collaborative solutions that balance conservation with livelihoods.
Prof Lourens Swanepoel (Right) handing gift to Prof Alan Gardiner (Left)
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