Provincial MEC for Agriculture, Ivan Meyer, has unveiled plans for the introduction of cannabis to the agricultural sector in the Western Cape, which is set to create over 25,000 jobs and help alleviate poverty.
The announcement of the implementation framework this week aims to formalize the sector for informal producers and processors of cannabis, launching it as a role player in economic development.
The plan has three main objectives: to mainstream, the production, and agri-processing of cannabis, to promote cannabis and hemp as a rotational crop in the industry, and to evaluate measures to protect and promote the unique Western Cape hemp and cannabis features.
The government believes this move will make the industry more accessible and provide a much-needed boost to the economy.
The cannabis industry in South Africa is valued at R28 billion, and the Western Cape government plans to capitalize on this market by creating job opportunities and driving economic development.
Meyer said that the initiative would have far-reaching benefits for the region, formalizing the industry and allowing for sustainable growth, while helping to alleviate poverty.