A groundbreaking hydroponic farming system has won first prize at the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme – South Africa (GCIP-SA) Awards.
This innovative system allows farmers to grow crops using up to 90% less water and requires only 10% of the land compared to traditional farming methods.
AB Farms, founded by Mogale Maleka, beat seven other competitors for the coveted sustainable development prize.
Hosted by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) entity, the Technology Agency (TIA), the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and the Global Environment Facility, the recently held awards acknowledged the outstanding achievements of entrepreneurs and innovators, who are driving sustainable solutions for a greener future.
According to the department, the GCIP is instrumental in South Africa’s response to the challenge of climate change by nurturing and accelerating cleantech startups and small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs).
The programme aligns with the Paris Agreement objectives and also supports South Africa in achieving its Nationally Determined Contribution targets to reduce carbon emissions from 350 to 420 megatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2030.
Maleka’s farm was recognised for its commitment to clean energy solutions.
“His innovation also reduces electricity consumption by 50% and fertiliser use by 40%, making it a game-changer for resource-scarce regions. Designed for resilience, the system ensures consistent irrigation, even during power or water disruptions,” the statement read.
Congratulating the finalists and winners, DSTI Minister Professor Blade Nzimande stressed the urgent need for sustainable solutions in South Africa, where environmental challenges such as water scarcity, air and water pollution, biodiversity loss, and extreme weather events are deepening socio-economic disparities.
“Unsustainable patterns of consumption and production have led to the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste,” Nzimande said.
According to the Minister, this crisis has resulted in severe environmental problems, including extreme weather events like droughts, floods, heatwaves and storms, which cause widespread damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and human lives.
“South Africa, like many other parts of the world, is grappling with these challenges, making the need for climate-resilient infrastructure even more urgent,” Nzimande said.
The 2025 GCIP-SA Awards also recognised other outstanding innovators in sustainable solutions.
Runner-up, Econova Solutions, led by Sanele Mabizela, was honoured for its impactful work in clean energy and environmental sustainability.
Econova converts organic waste into biogas and organic fertilisers.
Meanwhile, the second runner-up spot went to the Graduated Man of Steel, represented by Lunga Calvin Mahlangu, for an innovation that produces affordable electric micro-mobility solutions for urban and industrial transport.
Acting Chief Executive Officer of the TIA, Ismail Abdoola, commended the entrepreneurs for driving clean technology innovations and reaffirmed the TIA’s commitment to strengthening the programme’s impact.
“We recognise the remarkable achievements of the GCIP-SA and the entrepreneurs shaping the future of our country’s cleantech ecosystem. This... is not just about celebrating accomplishments but about reaffirming our shared vision for innovation, sustainability and progress,” said Abdoola at the awards ceremony.
He also acknowledged the long-standing partnership between TIA and UNIDO, which has been instrumental in driving the success of GCIP-SA, and supporting local entrepreneurs in refining their solutions and positioning them for market success.
“The GCIP is more than a programme, it is a movement, a movement that brings together innovation, collaboration, and purpose-driven action in support of a sustainable future. As we look ahead, let us be inspired by the work done so far and remain committed to building a greener and more resilient South Africa,” Abdoola added.
The winner and runners-up will represent South Africa, in the global installment of the Cleantech Awards in Turkey in September 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
