In the misty mountains and rolling fields of the Garden Route, a new chapter is unfolding for small-scale honeybush farmers and wild harvesters. A successful demonstration of a cutting-edge honeybush processing unit has opened doors for economic growth, sustainability, and inclusion in the broader agricultural value chain. This milestone signals a turning point for the region’s honeybush industry, long celebrated for its fragrant, antioxidant-rich tea.
Bringing Technology to the People
The Western Cape Department of Local Government (DLG), the Department of Agriculture (DOA), the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), and the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) have collaborated to introduce an innovative honeybush processing unit. Recently demonstrated at the ARC Infruitec/Nietvoorbij facility in Stellenbosch, this technology has the potential to be scaled up and rolled out across the agriculture sector, unlocking economic opportunities for local communities.
“This project is a shining example of how government entities can work together to deliver meaningful change,” said Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs, and Development Planning. “By strengthening the honeybush value chain, we are not only supporting small-scale farmers but also enhancing the economic resilience of the Garden Route.”
Empowering Farmers and Strengthening Communities
With R1 million in funding sourced by the Garden Route District Municipality as part of a total project cost of R4 million—jointly funded by the DLG and DOA, the initiative is a crucial step in expanding honeybush production and processing. Prof. Bongani Ndimba, Research Director at ARC, emphasised the long-standing efforts to develop the honeybush industry, tracing back to 1992. “This is more than just a project—it is a commitment to supporting agro-processing and food security in the region,” he stated.
Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development, and Tourism, Ivan Meyer, highlighted the economic significance of this development. “The honeybush processing plant empowers smallholder farmers and wild harvesters by providing access to the value chain—from cultivation to packaging and marketing. This initiative is a key part of the Western Cape Government’s Growth from Jobs Strategy, ensuring that SMMEs contribute meaningfully to economic growth.”
A Future Built on Sustainability and Inclusion
The honeybush initiative aligns with broader regional strategies, including the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan and the Garden Route Growth and Development Strategy. Garden Route District Municipality Mayor Andrew Stroebel affirmed its potential, stating, “By expanding agro-processing capabilities, we are fostering an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient honeybush industry that benefits everyone.”
With a total project cost of R4 million—jointly funded by the DLG and DOA—implementation is set to unfold in three phases. Phase one saw the successful design and construction of the honeybush processing unit. Phase two will establish an agro-processing hub near Oudtshoorn, providing much-needed infrastructure for farmers. The final phase envisions a dynamic future, incorporating agritourism and training for aspiring tea sommeliers.
As the Western Cape continues to navigate the intersection of conservation and agriculture, the honeybush industry stands as a model for sustainable development. This initiative proves that economic growth and environmental stewardship are not opposing forces but essential partners in securing a thriving, inclusive agricultural future.