Southern African Society for Plant Pathology
Advancing Agriculture in Southern Africa

54th SASPP Biennial Congress

Theme:Ukuqinisekisa Ikusasa Elisimeme Ngempilo Yezitshalo(English translation “Ensuring a Sustainable Future through Plant Health”)

The organizing committee of 54th SASPP Biennial Congress is thrilled to invite you to the upcoming Congress with the theme: “Ukuqinisekisa Ikusasa Elisimeme Ngempilo Yezitshalo” (English translation “Ensuring a Sustainable Future through Plant Health”). The congress is a premier gathering of leading experts, researchers, students and industry in the field of plant pathology. This congress will be a platform for sharing ground-breaking research, innovative ideas, and fostering collaborations that will shape the future of our discipline.

The 54th SASPP Congress will be held from 18 – 21 January 2026 at the Premier Hotel Umhlanga, which forms part of the eThekwini Metropolitan area. Umhlanga is a fast-developing area located along the Indian Ocean coast, north of the city of eThekwini and is well-known for its beautiful pier and promenade. The congress venue is about 20 min drive from King Shaka International airport.

Key dates:

Abstract submissions open –  7 January 2025
Online registration opens –  2 April 2025
Submission deadline for oral and poster abstracts –  30 June 2025
Notification of acceptance/rejection –  31 July 2025
Provisional Programme available –  8 September 2025
Early bird registration closes –  30 September 2025
Online registration closes –  11 December 2025
Congress dates 18 – 22 January 2026

Venue and Accommodation

The congress will be held at the Premier Hotel Umhlanga, 3, 7 Umhlanga Ridge Blvd, uMhlanga, KZN, situated 2 km from both uMhlanga Beach and Whalebone Pier.

A group rate for accommodation has been secured for delegates attending the SASPP 2026 congress at Premier Hotel Umhlanga and Premier Splended Inn .  Rooms are available on a first-come-first served basis until Monday 10 November 2025 when all rooms not booked will be released.  Bookings can be made with the hotel directly, stating SASPP 2026.  A booking form and link will be provided soon.

Premier Hotel Umhlanga 
Single Accommodation Bed & BreakfastR 1 950.00 per night
Double Accommodation Bed & BreakfastR2 165.00 (per room, 2 persons) per night
Premier Splendid Inn  
Single Accommodation Bed & BreakfastR 1 850.00 per night
Double Accommodation Bed & BreakfastR2 065.00 (per room, 2 persons) per night

The chic rooms have Wi-Fi, TVs, and tea and coffee making facilities, as well as balconies with partial sea views. Upgraded rooms feature full sea views, while suites add living areas with sofas. Room service is available. There’s a contemporary restaurant with a bar, along with an outdoor pool and an open-air lounge. Breakfast and parking are available.