Young scientists, innovators tackle South Africa’s water crisis

A team of young scientists and innovators are helping to find solutions to South Africa’s water challenges .

The group emerged as the winning team at the 2026 Wetskills South Africa programme, an International innovation workshop focused on water sustainability.

The participants developed innovative responses to the country’s growing problem of non-revenue water, which is treated water that the country loses, often because of leaks and ageing infrastructure.

Among the team of young scientists making strides is Sol Plaatje University’s chemistry master’s student, Bongiwe Mabhena. Her research focuses on wastewater quality monitoring and treatment.

Mabhena says, “Through partnership with the existing platform, YOMA, the unemployed youth will be trained as the water steward champions. So this platform equips them with the skills to educate the community, to monitor their neighbourhoods, and to report leaks, illegal connections, and vandalism. The forum also helps in tracking progress and therefore ensuring community accountability.

VIDEO | Young scientists take up the challenge to find innovative water solutions