UKZN Graduate Extracts Big Potential from Indigenous Plants to Claim Top Honours

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Ms Nolwazi Mcwabe, who graduated summa cum laude with a Master of Science (MSc) in Engineering (Chemical Engineering), pursued her postgraduate studies with the clear intent of contributing to sustainable development through innovative, locally driven solutions.

Supervised by Professor Amir H. Mohammadi, Mcwabe’s academic journey at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) was shaped by a growing passion for green energy and a commitment to unlocking the potential of South Africa’s natural resources.

“I chose UKZN for my MSc because of its strong research focus and excellent academic reputation in my field,” she said. “My undergraduate studies at UKZN sparked my passion for green energy, particularly through the green energy modules I completed.”

Mcwabe’s master’s research, ‘An Experimental Investigation on Bio-wax Extraction from Plant Leaves’, explored bio-wax extraction from indigenous South African plants - an area with significant environmental and economic promise. She focused on extracting bio-wax from locally available plant sources, with the aim of reducing reliance on imported waxes while creating new opportunities for local communities.

“Historically, bio-wax extraction involves removing other compounds like carbohydrates and bioactives before isolating the wax,” she explained. “I tested four local plants (Aloe ferox, Euphorbia tirucalli, Portulacaria afra (spekboom) and Carissa macrocarpa) using multiple solvents to find the best extraction method. One solvent stood out (n-Hexan), but the plants varied in bio-wax yield, giving us a ranking of best to least productive (bio-wax yield rank from highest: Carissa macrocarpa, Euphorbia tirucalli, Portulacaria afra and lastly Aloe ferox).”

The implications of her findings extend beyond the laboratory. “The extracted bio-wax has potential uses as fuel, polish and a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel-based products,” she said. “Using local plants and processes means we can boost South Africa’s economy by reducing import costs, creating local jobs and promoting sustainable agriculture, all the while supporting green energy initiatives.”

Her interest in the field was driven by both environmental and socio-economic considerations. “The potential to create sustainable, local alternatives to fossil fuel-based products motivated me,” she said. “Using indigenous South African plants means we can support local agriculture, reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to green energy initiatives. It’s a win-win for the environment and the economy.”

Her research contributes to sustainable development in South Africa by providing a local, eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuel-based products. “By tapping into the potential of indigenous plants, we can reduce reliance on imported waxes, create jobs and promote green energy, ultimately supporting the country’s economic growth and environmental sustainability,” she argued.

Completing her MSc in just a year was no small feat. Mcwabe credited her success to the support system around her, as well as her own determination. She thanked Mohammadi for his exceptional guidance and support throughout her MSc journey. “His expertise and reputation in the field have been instrumental in shaping my research,” she said.

She also thanked the lab technicians who helped source equipment and chemicals for her experiments, as well as her friends and family. “It wasn’t easy, but they were with me every step of the way. I basically lived at school for a year, putting in long hours to finish my MSc in one year - their encouragement kept me going!”

Now working as a graduate engineer in Mpumalanga, Mcwabe is already building on her academic foundation. “I am continuing to focus on green energy, exploring opportunities to combine it with agricultural waste management,” she said. “I’ve got a chance to do a project with UKZN on sugarcane processing and waste management, which ties in nicely with my interests.”

Her immediate goal is to gain hands-on experience. “I’m keen to gain industrial experience, explore techniques and see how agricultural waste can be turned into usable products,” she said. “Maybe down the line, I’ll pursue a PhD in green energy, but for now, I’m focusing on growing my practical skills.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to pursue my passion for green energy and sustainability,” said Mcwabe. “I’m excited to apply my skills as a graduate engineer in a company in Mpumalanga and also build on my research project.”

“Who knows, maybe this is just the start of something bigger!”

Words: Sally Frost

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini