University of Johannesburg alumnus Mr Mogale Maleka has been awarded the prestigious Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (GCIP-SA) 2025 award for his groundbreaking work in sustainable agriculture. The (TIA) GCIP-SA celebrates the brightest innovators in cleantech, recognising individuals and projects that are driving environmental solutions and shaping a sustainable future.
The awards, held on 20 March 2025 at The Maslow Hotel in Johannesburg, highlighted Maleka’s innovative hydroponic farming system that addresses key challenges in South Africa’s agricultural sector.
Impact and vision for a sustainable future
Maleka credits his time at UJ’s Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE) for shaping his approach to innovation. “The faculty encouraged problem-solving, critical thinking, and applying engineering principles to real-world challenges. It was a space where creativity met practicality, giving me the tools to approach problems methodically while thinking outside the box,” he shares. This experience directly aligns with UJ’s strategic goals of fostering impactful, solution-driven research.
The inspiration for AB Farms stemmed from Maleka’s personal experiences with the challenges faced by South African farmers, such as water scarcity, unreliable electricity, and shrinking arable land. Determined to find an alternative, he developed a hydroponic system that drastically reduces water consumption, maximises space efficiency, and enables year-round food production.
Innovative hydroponic farming system
A key feature of the AB Farms system is its ability to operate without constant access to water or electricity. Using a closed-loop water circulation system, the technology minimises waste while ensuring efficient resource use. Additionally, renewable energy sources, including solar power and battery storage, enable the system to remain operational even in off-grid areas. This innovation empowers farmers, even in remote locations, to produce food consistently, ensuring greater food security and economic stability.
The scalable nature of AB Farms’ technology could offer solutions to global food security issues, especially in water-scarce regions around the world. With this recognition, Maleka is poised to bring his sustainable farming technology to international markets, further advancing the global cleantech revolution.
A message for aspiring innovators
Winning the TIA GCIP-SA 2025 award is a significant achievement for Maleka and AB Farms. “This recognition validates our vision and opens doors to new funding, partnerships, and market access,” he explains. “It strengthens our ability to scale and impact more communities with sustainable farming technology, marking a crucial step towards transforming agriculture across Africa.”
Maleka’s success carries an inspiring message for aspiring engineers and entrepreneurs. “The challenges we face today are opportunities to innovate and make a real difference. Leverage the skills and knowledge you gain at UJ, but also cultivate curiosity and persistence. The world needs bold thinkers who are ready to tackle real-world problems. Believe in your vision and pursue it relentlessly,” he encourages.
UJ’s further recognition at the awards
In addition to Maleka’s success, UJ was also represented at the awards by Professor Tebogo Mashifana, who earned first runner-up for her Green Building Products project. This innovative initiative repurposes waste materials, such as plastic and solid waste, into sustainable, cement-free building products. The project contributes to waste reduction while addressing infrastructure challenges and aligns with UJ’s ethos of developing innovative, sustainable engineering solutions.
The TIA GCIP-SA, a highly respected national award, recognises South Africa’s most innovative and sustainable cleantech solutions, with winners benefiting from increased exposure, funding opportunities, and access to global networks.
