The Innovation Hub (TIH), a subsidiary of the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency, took a significant step towards addressing the pressing issues of food security and poverty alleviation by hosting an event at its eKasiLabs micro innovation hub facility in Ga-Rankuwa.
The event aimed to showcase the potential of eKasiLab in benefiting the local township economy, particularly in the agricultural sector.
In the recently released report on food security by Statistics South Africa, concerning figures revealed that 11.6% of Mzansi households, approximately 2.1 million, reported experiencing hunger. Additionally, 15% (2.6 million) of households faced inadequate access to food, while 6% (1.1 million) suffered from severe inadequate access. These statistics underscore the urgency of innovative solutions in tackling malnutrition and poverty.
Nothile Mpisi, the acting chief executive of TIH, emphasised the valuable discoveries made through operating in the townships. Ga-Rankuwa, with its rich agricultural history, presents a prime opportunity for eKasiLabs to contribute ground-breaking solutions that address the challenges of malnutrition and poverty.
Since its establishment in 2014, eKasiLabs has played a vital role in job creation, with 711 positions generated for entrepreneurs within the programme.
Currently, the programme supports 660 entrepreneurs at various stages of development, ranging from pre-incubation to commercialisation. The primary objective is to empower individuals to become employers and solution providers, thereby fostering self-sufficiency and resilient communities.
eKasiLabs facilities are strategically located across the five economic corridors in Gauteng, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship within townships. The facilities can be found in Mohlakeng, Sebokeng, Ga-Rankuwa, Mabopane, Soweto, Tembisa, Alexandra, Mamelodi, Kagiso, Kathorus, Mabopane, and Danie Van Zyl.
During the event, a panel discussion featured key members from various sectors, including Tendai Mazhude from mLab, Zingela Masekwane from the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), and Dr Phuti Chelopo-Mgobozi, acting senior manager at Bio-Economy. The panellists shed light on innovative approaches to address food security and poverty, aligning with the United Nations; declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the climate-resilience and nutritional benefits of the crop.
The eKasiLabs programme provides support to township entrepreneurs in the Smart Industry (ICT and advanced manufacturing), green economy, bioeconomy, and high-growth sectors. The event embodied eKasiLabs’ vision of bringing innovation directly to the people by establishing co-creation and innovation spaces within the townships, ensuring that local communities have access to the same services and facilities offered at The Innovation Hub in Lynnwood, Tshwane.
As a subsidiary of the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency (GGDA), The Innovation Hub manages Africa’s first internationally accredited Science and Technology Park. In line with the Gauteng Innovation Strategy and Green Economy strategy, the hub aims to drive economic development and growth through innovation. It serves as a vibrant meeting place for high-tech entrepreneurs, businesses, academics, researchers, and venture capitalists to connect, collaborate, and thrive.
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