The WRC’s water revolution in Giyani: pioneering innovation, transforming lives

Giyani, a town once plagued by water scarcity and inefficient farming methods, is now at the forefront of a water revolution. Thanks to the groundbreaking Giyani Local Scale Climate Resilience Programme (GLSCRP), this region has become a beacon of innovation, proving that with the right mix of science, sustainability, and community engagement, water can be managed smarter, more efficiently, and more equitably.

The GLSCRP, led by the Water Research Commission (WRC) in collaboration with the Government of Flanders, AWARD, University of the Western Cape and Tsogang, is not just an initiative, it’s a movement. It has turned water challenges into opportunities, transforming Giyani into a model of climate resilience and agricultural success that the world can learn from.

The blueprint for water-smart agriculture

Imagine a farming landscape where every drop of water is used wisely, where outdated irrigation systems have been replaced with precision mapping tools, and where drip irrigation ensures not a single drop goes to waste. That’s exactly what’s happening in Giyani.

Local farmers, like the members of the Ahi Tirheni Mqekwa Primary Agricultural Cooperative, have seen a radical shift in their operations. Before, they farmed with uncertainty, often damaging their irrigation systems during ploughing. Today, they have detailed digital maps pinpointing every pipe and cable, drastically cutting down costly repairs and inefficiencies. The result? Increased productivity, smarter farming, and more money in their pockets.

A future where every drop counts

In a country where water is as precious as gold, the GLSCRP has made smart irrigation and hydroponics the new norm. Farmers like those at the Duvadzi Youth Organic Agriculture Cooperative are seeing record-high yields thanks to drip irrigation systems that ensure their crops receive just the right amount of water. Compared to previous seasons, their sales have soared, proving that sustainable farming isn’t just good for the environment—it’s also good for business!

Meanwhile, in Matsambo Ngamba, hydroponic farming is changing lives. Farmers no longer rely on vast plots of land; instead, they grow produce inside water-efficient bags, cutting down on resource consumption while maximising yield. The adoption of furrow and ridge planting has further optimised soil management, making farming more efficient and, quite literally, less back-breaking.

Beyond the fields: the water-energy revolution

But the GLSCRP hasn’t stopped at farming. Water sustainability goes hand in hand with energy efficiency, and Giyani is now a shining example of water-energy synergy.

Take the Macena Primary Agriculture Cooperative, for example, farmers have embraced solar energy, drastically reducing their operational costs while ensuring uninterrupted access to water. With solar-powered boreholes, irrigation systems now run day and night, boosting productivity and securing livelihoods.

Beyond energy, water quality monitoring is now second nature to these farmers. Boreholes are routinely tested, and fertiliser use is meticulously managed to protect water sources. This ensures clean, safe water for crops and communities alike—an approach that is as environmentally responsible as it is effective.

From Giyani to the world: scaling innovation

What’s happening in Giyani is not just a local success story; it’s a global blueprint for tackling water scarcity and climate resilience. The GLSCRP has proven that with the right mix of public and private partnerships, cutting-edge technology, and community empowerment, water-smart solutions can be replicated across South Africa and beyond.

Governments, investors, and businesses have a golden opportunity to scale these innovations, bringing water security to communities worldwide. Whether it’s hydroponics, precision farming, or renewable energy-powered irrigation, the time to act is now. The GLSCRP has shown that when science meets action, the results are transformative.

A call to action: join the water revolution

Water is not just a resource, it’s a lifeline, a catalyst for change, and a driver of economic growth. The GLSCRP has laid the foundation for a future where every drop counts, every farmer thrives, and every community prospers. But to truly turn the tide on water challenges, it takes a collective effort.

So, whether you’re a policymaker, an investor, a scientist, or a concerned citizen, now is the time to be part of the movement. With science as our guide and collaboration as our strategy, we can build a water-secure, climate-resilient South Africa—one drop at a time.