TOP GREEN BEAN PRODUCER IN THE CAPE DISTRICT MARKET

HLA Boerdery is a thriving vegetable and herb farming initiative located in Lynedoch, on the outskirts of Stellenbosch. The project, spearheaded by beneficiary Hylton Arendse, received crucial financial support through the Western Cape Department of Agriculture’s CASP and iLima/Letsema Programme, which aims to alleviate poverty by boosting food production.

Driven by a passion for farming, Arendse embarked on his agricultural journey in 2019 by identifying underutilised municipal land. He secured a lease from the municipality and began cultivating a diverse range of herbs and vegetables, including basil, coriander, rocket, parsley, spinach, beetroot, green beans, celery, cauliflower, and broccoli.

The Stellenbosch Municipality is committed to providing emerging farmers with access to municipal agricultural land and ensuring the optimal use of available resources. This initiative promotes the development and growth of farming enterprises, particularly for those individuals who have historically experienced economic exclusion.

To support this endeavour, Casidra constructed a
R2 million multispan tunnel and irrigation system on a 21-hectare plot, which significantly enhanced the protection and productivity of the crops. Additionally, the project received vital resources such as fertiliser, manure, and seedlings.

Arendse conveyed his heartfelt gratitude for the support from Casidra and the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, acknowledging that their assistance has enabled him to achieve his dream of running a successful farming operation. The project now supplies produce to major retailers, such as Woolworths Foods.

Arendse remarked, “This support allows us to harvest throughout the year and achieve substantial profits. Our green beans are thriving in the tunnels, and we are proud to be the top green bean producer in the Cape District market”.