INMED South Africa, representing Mzansi’s innovative spirit, took a prominent place as the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) and the Seeding The Future Foundation unveiled the winners and finalists for the Seeding The Future Global Food System Challenge.
Among the prestigious seed grant winners, INMED South Africa’s visionary aquaponics social enterprise programme stood out, showcasing the country’s commitment to transforming global food systems.
The challenge, receiving a staggering 900 submissions from 78 countries and valued at $1 million (about R18.7 million), sought innovations promoting safe, nutritious food, sustainable practices, and equitable food access.
INMED South Africa aims to scale impactful aquaponics systems, providing sustainable food solutions to marginalised communities. Its success underscores the nation’s pioneering advancements in food systems.
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Extraordinary league of global food innovators
Dr Bernhard van Lengerich, founder of Seeding The Future Foundation, praised this year’s winners, emphasising their impact on global food system challenges. He expressed, “We are thrilled about the quality, innovative nature, and potential impact of this year’s seed grant winners, particularly the impactful work from INMED South Africa.”
Christie Tarantino-Dean, CEO of IFT, acknowledged South Africa’s significant contribution to the global food challenge, stating, “South Africa’s dedication to innovative solutions aligns perfectly with the mission of IFT to advance food science for the betterment of global food systems.”
As INMED South Africa shines among the seed grant winners, anticipation mounts for the growth grant and grand prize finalists, set to be announced in January 2024. The grand prize winners stand to receive $250 000 each (about R4.6 million), recognising ground-breaking efforts in reshaping global food systems.
INMED South Africa’s achievement joins other impactful initiatives globally, such as Green America’s Soil Carbon Initiative and the Savory Institute’s transformative work in Kenya’s Mara region.
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