Beaufort West Hydroponics Company

The initial idea of starting a hydroponics project in Beaufort West came from one of the community members, who then turned it over to The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). The CSIR began the project in partnership with the Beaufort West Municipality, members and leaders of the community, the Provincial Department of Economic Development and Social Services  (PDEDSS) and the National Department of Science and Teechnology (DST). Funding was provided by the DST (37%) and the PDEDSS (63%).

The main objective of the project was to find innovative solutions to the problem of poverty in the local municipality, especially single mothers sustaining their families solely on government grants, by providing employment through the use of new technologies in hydroponic growing techniques.  The feasibility of the project was thoroughly researched, and a small pilot site was opened before resouces were allocated to the construction and maintenance of a larger site.   Beaufort West is currently employing approximately 60 people to operate the facilities with an immediate goal of increasing that number to 100.  Currently the project grows basil, coriander, rocket, mint, spinach, lettuce and tomatoes.  The project at Beaufort West is performing so well that 2 additional sites, one producing leather and the other essential oils, are in the process of development.  

Innovation

Social successes were reached through training Beaufort West residents in an advanced form of cultivation, and providing the community with jobs.  The the use of hyrdroponic technology is also innovative as it dramatically increases production, and farmers have better control over the quantity and quality of the product.

Effectiveness

Employment is provided to approximately 60 people. The project staff was thoroughly trained at the University of Stellenbosch. The project is producing basil, coriander, rocket, mint, spinach, lettuce and tomatoes, and is currently sold to Woolworths.  The Beaufort West Hydroponics company has also provided the catalyst for the establishment of two more local projects producing leather and essential oils. 

Poverty Impact

The project is one of the biggest employers in the area.  Projections estimate that up to 200 new jobs will be created between all 3 industries. 

Sustainability

Total initial expenditures amount to between R6 million and R8 million.  The provincial and national level governments provided 100% of the funding.  At this stage operational expenses are covered suffiently by income generated from the sale of herbs produced on site. 

Replication

This project can be replicated using the huge store of data and experience Beaufort West Hydroponics Company has amassed. 

Partnerships

• National Department of Science and Technology
• Provincial Department of Economic Development and Social Services
• Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
• Beaufort West Municipality