Plans to resuscitate the Zebediela Citrus Estate

Limpopo MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development Nakedi Kekana on Monday met with the Bjatladi Communal Property Association [BCPA] and Impact Catalyst, who are tasked with developing a master plan to resuscitate the Zebediela Citrus Estate.

The Zebediela Citrus Estate has collapsed due to mismanagement, infighting, and debt. It was once one of the largest citrus producers in the southern hemisphere. It also used to employ about 800 seasonal workers, with 237 permanent workers.

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It has been involved in controversy with infighting among beneficiaries of the land. The farm entered voluntary liquidation because it could not service its outstanding debt of R180 million.

The BCPA holds the title to the land on behalf of the community. It comprises 423 households with some 1,800 beneficiaries.

MEC NAKEDI KEKANA MEET WITH BCPA WITH PLANS TO RESUSCITATE THE ZEBEDIELA CITRUS ESTATE 

Kekana also congratulated the newly elected BCPA and was formally presented with the master plan.

The master plan is currently under consideration by the community. Once adopted, a steering committee will be established and breathe life into the bleeding farm.

The technical committee will include representatives from the Office of the Premier, the Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism, and the National Department of Land Reform and Rural Development. All the entities were present at the meeting held at the Zebediela Citrus offices.

“The importance of the citrus farm cannot be overstated. It plays a crucial role in providing much-needed jobs in the community,” said MEC Kekana.

“The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development recognises this need and is committed to supporting the plan to revive the farm. The once World Renowned Citrus farm has been in the public eye for all but no good reason, with many interventions having failed due to structural inefficiencies.”