South Africa’s innovation in agricultural water management has earned global recognition, with the national delegation walking away with honours in six award categories at the 4th World Irrigation Forum (WIF4). The event, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 7-13 September 2025, showcased cutting-edge solutions aimed at tackling water scarcity and boosting agricultural resilience.

By Lebogang Mashala, Editor at African Farming

The South African National Committee on Irrigation and Drainage (SANCID) led the award-winning delegation, underscoring the country’s growing reputation as a leader in smart water solutions. Among the standout achievers was Dr Zanele Ntshidi, Research Manager at the Arid Lands Node of the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON).

Dr Ntshidi and her team received the Wastage Award for Innovative Water Management for their Decision Support System (DSS) for irrigation scheduling. The tool harnesses data on plant water needs, crop coefficients, microclimate conditions and yield potential to optimise irrigation practices. By ensuring that every drop counts, the DSS not only boosts farm productivity but also minimises water wastage, an urgent need in South Africa’s arid and semi-arid regions.

Dr Ntshidi first showcased her innovative agricultural water management tool at the 2nd Kenya National Research Festival in August 2025, where she joined a panel discussion on accelerating and upscaling technologies and digital innovations for sustainable farming.

Global Recognition

Her work has now earned global recognition. The WatSave Awards, established in 1997 by the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), celebrate innovations that deliver measurable water savings in agriculture. Winners are selected by an international panel after demonstrating tangible results in the field. Team South Africa, led by Dr Ntshidi, claimed honours in the Innovative Water Management category, achieving estimated water savings of between 500 and 1 000m³/ha/year, depending on the fruit tree species.

“This recognition is a result of consistent efforts put into agricultural water management to save the irreplaceable natural resource that is water and advocating for water use efficiency without compromising crop yields. This ensures both water and food security, two of the most important necessities for human survival and bodily functions,” said Dr Ntshidi. “This recognition is also an encouragement to do more. I will not only continue long-term research but also ensure that the impact of such efforts is felt across society; that science is conducted for the improvement of people’s lives.”

Also read: Major water infrastructure upgrades boost communal farming in North West

Locally Relevant And Globally Competitive Research

According to Dr Mary-Jane Bopape, NRF-SAEON Managing Director, Dr Ntshidi’s achievement exemplifies the organisation’s commitment to conducting research that is both locally relevant and globally competitive. “It also exemplifies the impact of innovative science that addresses pressing challenges in agriculture and water management, with benefits that extend beyond local communities to the wider world. This recognition is a proud moment for South Africa and a testament to the excellence of our scientists,” added Dr Bopape.

In another significant achievement, South Africa celebrated the inclusion of four irrigation structures into the World Heritage Irrigation Structures (WHIS) register. These are the Darlington Dam, Hartbeespoort Dam, Koppies Dam and Woodhead Dam.

The awards were jointly celebrated by researchers from NRF-SAEON, the Water Research Commission (WRC), the Agricultural Research Council, Stellenbosch University and the Department of Agriculture.

Adding to the success, the WRC also received the Best Paper Award, bringing the total tally to six awards. This remarkable performance highlights not only South Africa’s scientific excellence but also the nation’s leadership in sustainable water management on the global stage.