SAB's R19 Million Lime Cultivation Project Boosts SA Agriculture and Corona Beer Production

In a strategic move to bolster local agriculture and secure a vital ingredient for their iconic Corona beer, South African Breweries (SAB) has invested R19 million into a lime cultivation project that is already bearing fruit—quite literally. The investment into the Moletele lime initiative in Limpopo reflects a commitment by SAB to foster local production and ensure the uninterrupted supply of one of its core product ingredients, while simultaneously contributing to economic growth and empowerment of local communities.

SAB's involvement in the Moletele lime initiative is a commendable example of a public-private partnership. Collaborating with the Moletele Community Property Association, Komati Fruit Group, and the department of agriculture & rural development, SAB has set a precedent in leveraging South Africa’s agricultural potential. The Moretele farm, spanning 60 hectares, is the tangible result of this partnership, with roughly 34,000 lime trees now flourishing under SAB's cultivation plan.

Zoleka Lisa, an SAB executive, highlights the importance of local ingredients for the authenticity of SAB products, stating that 95% of their raw materials are sourced within South Africa. This initiative not only helps safeguard this statistic but also boosts SAB's commitment to sustainability and the growth of local industries.

The R19m investment encompasses the purchase of necessary machinery, the latest agriculture technologies, and the provision of training to upskill community members. SAB’s vision is to have a year-round lime supply, essential for meeting the needs of their Corona beer production, and for the cultivation of a product that can be exported, contributing to the country's economy.

Agriculture minister Thoko Didiza sees the initiative as a cornerstone for building a robust and sustainable agricultural sector. By following the model set by the Moletele lime initiative, similar programs could be launched throughout South Africa, encouraging further public-private partnerships.

The social impact of the Moletele lime initiative is also significant, with SAB reporting that the project supports 12 permanent employees and provides opportunities for additional seasonal workers. Moreover, the profits from lime sales benefit the 1,615 families who are integral to the Moletele Community, ensuring the project's proceeds help uplift the people directly involved with it.

The success of the Moletele lime initiative could lead to further expansion if demand remains high, fostering job security and anchoring the sustainability of local livelihoods within the agricultural sector.

As SAB continues to evaluate the progression of the lime initiative, future plans could see the project grow in scale and scope. The Moletele initiative is a clear testament to the potential benefits of investing in South Africa's agricultural capabilities, demonstrating how targeted efforts can yield positive outcomes for both private business interests and the broader community.