From its beginnings as a small owner-managed business, CenGen has grown into a leading agricultural genomics company providing specialised research, development, and diagnostic services to plant breeders, researchers, and the agricultural industry. The organisation continuously refines its strategic direction, business processes, and technology platforms to endeavour to remain at the forefront of rapidly evolving genomic and digital technologies.
CenGen is committed to delivering scientific services that meet international standards. To achieve this, the team actively participates in international conferences, collaborates with leading research institutions, and maintains strong partnerships with global scientific experts. These collaborations ensure that the latest advances in genomics, molecular diagnostics, bioinformatics, and sequencing technologies are rapidly translated into practical solutions for South African agriculture.
Over the past decade, CenGen has substantially expanded its bioinformatics capability, integrating advanced computational biology with high-throughput molecular technologies. By leveraging high-performance computing and cloud-based analytical platforms, the team is able to process and interpret increasingly complex genomic datasets efficiently and accurately. These capabilities now underpin a wide range of services, including marker discovery, genome-wide association studies, population genomics, whole-genome sequencing, de novo genome assembly, comparative genomics, and molecular diagnostic assay development. Recent projects have included the sequencing and assembly of complex genomes from economically important and indigenous South African plant species, creating valuable genomic resources for future research and crop improvement.
DIRECTOR & OPERATIONS MANAGER
Francois Smit
Francois was first introduced to Renée’s passion for genetics during a visit to his parents’ farm when she questioned him about RNA. At the time, he was still in high school, and CenGen had not yet been established.
Since then, Francois has collaborated with the company on numerous projects before officially joining the team in 2020. He has more than 15 years of experience in various fields, including breeding, applied research and development, the implementation of new technology across Africa, and driving organisational reform.
He has had the privilege of working with and leading cross-functional teams to achieve common goals at prominent companies such as SABMiller, AB InBev, and Value Chain Solutions.
Francois supports CenGen in creating value-enhancing outcomes through molecular solutions for partners in the agricultural value chain. He also focuses on budget management and research project development.
INDEPENDENT DIRECTOR
Dr. Xolelwa Zulu
Dr Prins met Dr. Zulu in 2018 on a scientific tour to the UK, hosted by the British High Commission and Agbiz Grain. At the time, Dr. Zulu was the Science and Innovation Attaché for the British High Commission in Pretoria. Dr. Zulu holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. She is currently reading for a Master of Science in Technology and Innovation Management at the University of Pretoria- conducting research on the review of South African RDI policies and associated policy instruments in RDI investments. In 2019, she was appointed as the Deputy Chair of the Locally Engaged Staff Association (LESA) at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office of the British Government.
She has previously led the Beef Genomics Project (BGP), at the University of Pretoria and has, apart from scientific knowledge, extensive experience in project management, the acquisition of funding, innovation management, scientific research investment, and development of international collaborations and relations – a skill set that complements our research and operations tremendously.
She is currently the manager for Strategic Research, Development, and Innovation Programs at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in South Africa, where part of her responsibilities includes overseeing and supporting the development and implementation of the CSIR Research, Development, and Innovation (RD&I) strategy.
She leads and guides investment funding (+R1bn), effectively designs, develops programs, and efficiently aligns resources to the strategy. She also ensures the alignment of the human capital development strategy with the RD&I strategy. She was appointed as an Independent Director of CenGen in December 2019.
Founder and Former Chief Scientist
Dr. Renée Prins
Renée Prins obtained a PhD in Genetics from Stellenbosch University and founded CenGen (Pty) Ltd in 2003 after relocating to Worcester. Determined to continue her scientific career outside the traditional academic environment, she established CenGen as a platform where world-class plant genetics and genomics research could flourish while delivering practical solutions for South African agriculture.
Throughout her career, Renée was passionate about translating scientific discoveries into technologies that benefit the agricultural industry. Under her leadership, CenGen developed expertise in molecular marker technologies, DNA fingerprinting, genomics, sequencing, and bioinformatics, providing innovative tools that support crop improvement, molecular diagnostics, and sustainable agricultural production.
Equally important to Renée was her commitment to developing people. Over more than two decades, she built a highly skilled, multidisciplinary team and fostered a culture of scientific excellence. She invested in mentoring young scientists, supporting postgraduate students, and creating an environment where knowledge, expertise, and leadership could be shared and developed. When Renée retired on 31 July 2026, she left behind far more than a successful company. She left a resilient organisation with an experienced team, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and a strong culture of innovation. The foundation she established ensures that CenGen is well positioned to continue delivering internationally recognised genomics research, molecular diagnostics, and cutting-edge technologies that support the future of South African agriculture.
Overview of Commercial Initiatives,
Excluding Breeding Partners
Clients
Projects
Organisms
