The Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) hosted the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) for the highly anticipated Eastern Cape Biocatalysis Roadshow, showcasing the powerful link between innovation and economic growth. This strategic initiative brought together industry leaders and entrepreneurs to explore the transformative potential of biocatalysis in advancing green manufacturing as well as the bioeconomy.
The roadshow forms part of the CSIR’s national awareness campaign on biocatalysis, a process that harnesses natural ingredients to drive industrial chemical reactions in a more sustainable and environmentally friendly manner. The CSIR’s commitment to research and development in this field aligns with the South African government’s 10- year plan to integrate biocatalysis into the country’s broader bioeconomy strategy.
Dr Lucia Steenkamp, Chief Researcher at the CSIR in Biomanufacturing Technologies, shared insights into the importance of this initiative:
“Our goal is to transition industries away from harmful chemicals towards natural, sustainable solutions that protect both the environment and human health. With the Eastern Cape’s rich biodiversity, spanning aloe ferox, citrus, and other natural resources, the province is uniquely positioned to lead South Africa’s transition towards a bio-based economy. Through this roadshow, we aim to introduce entrepreneurs to biocatalysis and showcase how the CSIR can support them in developing and commercialising green technologies.”
For the ECDC, this engagement represents more than just knowledge-sharing, it solidifies the organisation’s strategic partnership with the CSIR, reinforcing the ECDC’s mandate of driving economic development through innovation. Laura Peinke, Senior Manager responsible for Industrial Development highlighted the significance of this collaboration:
“The ECDC and CSIR are laying the foundation for a long-term partnership that seamlessly integrates scientific research with industrial and economic advancement. Our priority sectors, including manufacturing, township and rural development, and value chain expansion, are deeply interconnected with the opportunities biocatalysis presents. Sessions like these help local entrepreneurs tap into the vast potential of the province’s natural resources and how they can leverage them for sustainable business growth.”
For entrepreneurs in attendance, the session was an eye-opener. Busisiwe Mgangxela- Peter, an organic farmer specialising in herbs and cosmetic processing, expressed her enthusiasm:
“As a green entrepreneur, I found this session incredibly insightful. It introduced me to opportunities and technologies I was not aware of. Information-sharing platforms like these are essential in helping us transform and scale our businesses.”
By facilitating dialogue that bridges the gap between industry researchers and business owners, the ECDC-CSIR collaboration is paving the way for a future where industrialisation is seamlessly integrated with sustainability. The Biocatalysis roadshow not only showcased the power of green innovation but also positioned the Eastern Cape’s role as a critical player in South Africa’s bioeconomy landscape.
The Premier, Mr. Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, alongside the Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for the Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Ms. Nonkqubela Pieters, and the Head of Department (HOD), Ms. Mickey Mama, honoured the roadshow with their presence, engaging directly with entrepreneurs and businesses in attendance. Their participation signified the importance of this initiative and provided a platform for meaningful dialogue. In addition, the event presented an opportunity for the ECDC and CSIR to outline the scope of their strategic partnership and its potential to drive economic growth and innovation in the Eastern Cape.