Two standout agricultural innovations were recognised at the recent Western Cape Innovation Awards 2025, hosted by the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry at Cape Town City Hall. The awards honoured 14 innovations across multiple sectors, with several key developments in agriculture and agri-processing earning praise.
South Africa Wine Honoured for Digital Skills Innovation
South Africa Wine, the national industry body for the country’s wine sector, received an Industry Innovation Award for its pioneering digital approach to skills development. Its Learning Management System (LMS) has opened up new opportunities for wine producers, farmworkers, and small operators by providing accessible, online training across the value chain.
The LMS currently supports over 2,600 users, offering more than 590 courses covering topics such as viticulture, compliance, and export marketing. The platform has doubled its user base in the past year, while reducing costs for businesses by eliminating travel and venue expenses. Notably, over 40% of participants are women, with many from smaller farms now able to access world-class training regardless of location.
“This innovation matters because it’s not just about technology, it’s about people, growth, and transformation,” said Rico Basson, CEO of South Africa Wine.
NAMPO Kaap Recognised for Promoting Agri-Innovation
NAMPO Kaap / Cape, represented by Henk Agenbach from Bredasdorp Park, was also awarded for its ongoing role in promoting agricultural technology and innovation. The NAMPO Kaap expo has become a key platform for showcasing the latest developments in precision agriculture, machinery, and farming techniques, supporting knowledge transfer across the sector.
Broader Innovation Recognised Across the Province
In addition to agriculture, innovations in technology, sustainability, public services, and civil society were also recognised for driving economic growth in the province.
Among the other winners was Stellenbosch-based Cubespace, honoured for its development of satellite control systems used by international clients such as NASA. Zerocrete was awarded for creating low-carbon concrete made from non-recyclable plastic and fabrics, significantly cutting emissions. A world-first recycled plastic bucket innovation was also recognised for its quality and environmental impact.
In the public sector, the City of Cape Town’s Ease of Doing Business Programme and the Western Cape Growth for Jobs Programme received awards for streamlining business processes and promoting economic development. Civil society organisations Development Action Group (DAG) and the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) were acknowledged for their contributions to housing and food security respectively.
Cape Chamber CEO John Lawson described innovation as central to the province’s Growth for Jobs strategy, saying, “Innovation is the magic ingredient that drives us forward — our innovators are our trailblazers.”
FNB Western Cape Commercial Head Stephan Claasen closed the event by highlighting South Africa’s favourable investment climate, noting that innovation will be key to driving future growth.