Young scientists, innovators tackle South Africa’s water crisis
Participants developed innovative responses to the country's growing problem of non-revenue water
A team of young scientists and innovators has emerged victorious in South Africa's battle against water challenges. Their triumph came at the 2026 Wetskills South Africa programme, an international innovation workshop dedicated to water sustainability. The workshop focused on addressing the country's growing issue of non-revenue water, which refers to the treated water that the nation loses, often due to leaks and aging infrastructure.
Sol Plaatje University's chemistry master's student, Bongiwe Mabhena, is one of the standout young scientists working on this crucial issue. Her research centers around wastewater quality monitoring and treatment. Mabhena is enthusiastic about a partnership with YOMA, an organization that will train unemployed youth as water steward champions.
This initiative equips the youth with the skills needed to educate their communities, monitor neighborhood water usage, and report leaks, illegal connections, and vandalism. Furthermore, the platform aids in tracking progress and ensuring community accountability.
The video below showcases the young scientists taking on the challenge to develop innovative water solutions.
Written by urgent.news from SABC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
