Green ideas win big in Secunda
Green innovation took centre stage in Secunda as local entrepreneurs pitched bold, eco-friendly solutions for a sustainable future, with top winners walking away with funding and momentum to grow their impact.
The Mpumalanga Green Cluster Agency (MGCA), in partnership with several businesses, hosted the Green Innovation Challenge at the Sasol Recreation Club on June 5.
This flagship initiative celebrates local entrepreneurs whose green innovations are helping drive the transition to a more sustainable and inclusive economy in Mpumalanga.
The top 10 finalists participated in a development journey, which included pitching workshops and mock presentations to refine their business ideas and build confidence in presenting their visions.
Finalists pitched their green ventures to a panel of judges and competed for funding to help transform their early-stage innovations into impactful enterprises.
YelloWaste, a data-driven, on-demand recycling and waste management service using advanced technology and real-time analytics, won this year’s challenge and received R100 000.
JusticeFlames (Pty) Ltd, which manufactures eco-friendly charcoal and coal briquettes from coal dust, dry grass, leaves and other biomass waste, placed second and received R50 000.
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Bustani Trading Enterprise, which provides affordable fencing, steel fabrication and poultry housing solutions to rural and peri-urban communities, came third and received R30 000.
Sekusile Scrap and Metal Waste Recycling, a buy-back centre focused on metal and plastic, received a special award of essential equipment to help scale its operations.
MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Makhosazane Masilela, delivered the keynote address, “The 2025 Green Innovation Challenge seeks to unlock new green pathways across Mpumalanga. Through initiatives like this, we aim to reduce unemployment, poverty, and inequality.
“The financial support to SMMEs has grown from R180 000 in 2024 to an estimated R200 000 this year, thanks to new partnerships. This reflects our commitment to a just transition, one that leaves no one behind.”
In addition to the prize money, all finalists will receive ongoing mentorship and support to develop their businesses.
They will also be helped to register their projects on the Just Energy Transition (JET) Funding Platform, launched by the JET PMU in the presidency, giving them access to future funding and support.
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