Targeted investment and partnerships are helping a De Doorns table grape farm increase production, create jobs and build a sustainable agricultural enterprise.
Siyazama Klipland Boerdery, an emerging table grape farming enterprise in De Doorns, is demonstrating how targeted investment, practical support and strong partnerships can contribute to agricultural growth and economic opportunity.
Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, visited the farm on 24 August 2026 to see first-hand the progress made by the enterprise and the impact of government support.
Situated in the Hex River Valley, Siyazama Klipland Boerdery covers 43 hectares, with 23.71 hectares currently planted with vineyards. Since 2021, the farm has recorded significant growth as it works towards reaching its full production potential.
Production has increased from 68 443 cartons of table grapes in 2021 to 150 000 cartons in 2025. This year, the farm harvested approximately 164 000 cartons, reflecting continued growth in its production capacity.
For shareholder Alec Abrahams, the progress of the farm represents more than increased production.
Many of the shareholders have deep roots in the De Doorns agricultural community. Some grew up in families whose parents worked on table grape farms, while others have spent years working in the industry themselves. They are now using their experience and knowledge to build an enterprise that creates opportunities and contributes to the local economy.
The farm currently provides employment to 25 permanent workers and approximately 120 seasonal workers during the harvesting season.
“I am happy that our farm has created 25 permanent jobs and approximately 120 seasonal jobs. In essence, this puts food on the table for many families,” said Abrahams.
The growth of Siyazama Klipland Boerdery has been supported through an investment of approximately R2 million from the Western Cape Department of Agriculture’s Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP), with Casidra serving as the project implementer.
The support has focused on addressing practical challenges that affect the farm’s productivity and long-term sustainability. Among the key deliverables is a 6.8-ton truck, which will improve the transportation of farmworkers and support the movement of agricultural inputs and produce.
The farm’s in-field irrigation system has also been upgraded through the installation of a remote management application. The smart irrigation technology will assist the farm to manage water more efficiently while supporting sustainable farming practices and improved productivity.
Dr Meyer said investments in emerging farmers are essential to building a stronger and more inclusive agricultural sector.
“When we invest in emerging farmers, we are not only investing in vineyards and infrastructure; we are investing in people, livelihoods and the future of agriculture in the Western Cape. Our goal must be to help farmers move from potential to production, and from production to sustainable growth.”
The Minister’s visit highlighted the role that partnerships between government, implementing agencies and farmers can play in creating an enabling environment for agricultural development.
Casidra CEO, Dr Keith du Plessis, said the progress made at Siyazama Klipland Boerdery shows the importance of ensuring that development investment translates into practical support and measurable results.
“Through continued partnerships and targeted investment, Casidra remains committed to empowering emerging farmers and strengthening agricultural development in the Western Cape. Our role is to help turn development investment into practical support that enables farmers to become more productive, sustainable and economically viable.”
As Siyazama Klipland Boerdery continues its turnaround journey, the focus remains on building a sustainable and independent agricultural enterprise that can expand its contribution to employment, food production and economic development in De Doorns.
The farm’s progress is a reminder that when investment is matched with commitment, experience and the right partnerships, emerging farmers can move beyond potential and build businesses that create lasting value for their communities and the agricultural sector.
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