South Africa has a knack for innovation, solving everyday problems in surprisingly clever ways. Here are seven inventions you probably didn’t know came from Mzansi, all making waves across the globe.
- Economical Solar Power
Back in 2005, Professor Vivian Alberts decided that solar power shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg. His micro-thin metallic film technology made solar energy five times cheaper than traditional silicon cells. Now, even your grandma can afford to go green!
- Computerised Ticketing (Thanks, Percy!)
In 1971, Percy Tucker created Computicket, the world’s first centralised, computerised ticketing system. Gone are the days of queuing for hours only to find out the show’s sold out. “Who needs that stress?” one concertgoer quipped.
- Speed Gun Technology
Cricket and tennis fans, rejoice! Henri Johnson invented the radar gun in 1992 to measure ball speed. This little beauty tracks how fast your favourite players hit those balls—perfect for the couch critic in all of us.
- Automatic Pool Cleaners
Say goodbye to scrubbing your pool! In the 1960s, John Raubenheimer whipped up the first automatic pool cleaner. Now, instead of battling algae, you can sip a drink while the Kreepy Krauly does all the hard work.
- Pratley Putty – The Space Adhesive
When Neil Armstrong moonwalked in 1969, he brought along a little something from South Africa—Pratley Putty! Invented by George Pratley, this super-strong adhesive still sticks around in various industries. Talk about a product with out-of-this-world credentials!
- Retinal Cryosurgery
Dr. Selig Percy Amoils took eye surgery to new heights in 1965 with his Cryo Pencil, which uses extreme cold to zap cataracts. Even icons like Nelson Mandela got to see better thanks to this clever invention.
- CyberTracker
Louis Liebenberg and Lindsay Steventon made tracking wildlife a breeze with their CyberTracker software. Now, traditional trackers can record data using symbols instead of text, making it easier to protect our furry friends.
Final Thoughts:
South Africa’s innovative spirit has birthed practical solutions that have transformed lives worldwide.
Which of these inventions surprised you the most? Let us know in the comments or drop us a message!
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Source Info: https://www.thesouthafrican.com/lifestyle/7-world-changing-south-african-inventions/