Around the world, countries are being increasingly affected by the spread of Covid-19. Aside from the prominent health and safety concerns presented by the pandemic, there are many social and economic implications to consider as the world’s behaviour modifies to contain the spread of the virus. “While these circumstances are certainly distressing, they are a catalyst for innovation,” says The Innovation Hub CEO, Advocate Pieter Holl.

“We are pleased to report that there are various creative and innovative solutions coming from our innovators to address the current situation. Various tenants and entrepreneurs from The Innovation Hub have shown initiative in responding to the challenges and opportunities presented by the pandemic,” Advocate Holl reports.

One such example comes from Kimard Studio, a company led by two young aspirant entrepreneurs from Benoni. The company has developed a web game that focuses on creating awareness in an interactive way for young people. “The game has two levels,” explains co-founder Kim Ardamina. “Level one focuses on the importance of hygiene. While you are washing your hands, you need to kill the viruses by clicking on the buttons before they reach you. The second level addresses social distancing, where the player must work quickly to keep characters apart from each other. Characters close together are shown infecting each other, and the health status of the group diminishes.” The game also encourages players to learn about careers in essential services, and links to a career guidance company.

“Our company focuses on building fun and interactive education solutions, and it is my hope that we are helping South Africa’s youth gain a better understanding of the health and safety requirements being implemented to flatten the curve- Said Kim Ardamina.”

Stepping in to improve sanitation

Other entities incubated through The Innovation Hub are also focusing their efforts on combatting the spread of the novel coronavirus. Global Health Biotech, which usually manufactures natural anti-inflammatory cream, has recently started manufacturing sanitisers to help ensure a steady supply to the country. The company was founded in 2016 by Prof. Keolebogile Shirley Motaung, a Full Professor, Biomedical Scientist and Assistant Dean: Research, Innovation and Engagement in the Faculty of Science at the Tshwane University of Technology. The sanitiser is made of 60% alcohol (ethanol) and 40% aloe vera gel, distilled water, and lavender oil. The product softens the hands while disinfecting them, leaving them feeling refreshed and non-sticky.

Soweto-based Eco Finesse is also ramping up their existing production of hand sanitiser, alongside their other products such as cleaning detergents, hand and body lotion, and hair products. Equally important, LooAfrique is offering rapid portable hand wash stations to social grants ques in Pretoria. They are also using their solutions to save water during the Covid-19 crisis in the informal settlements. These solutions help users to save water and improve hygiene.

“We are pleased that The Innovation Hub’s tenants, and incubated entrepreneurs have risen to the challenge and shown that local entrepreneurs can use the current crisis as an opportunity for growth and development, while helping their fellow South Africans. This speaks to the heart of our organisation which aims to solve local challenges through unique solutions,” concludes Advocate Pieter Holl, CEO of The Innovation Hub

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