The industrial cannabis sector in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is experiencing significant growth, which is marked by international collaborations and the establishment of state-of-the-art processing facilities. As the province positions itself as a hub for industrial hemp, partnerships with French and Chinese stakeholders are set to drive this expansion further.
Major Cannabis Processing Facility Boosts KZN’s Hemp Industry
A cutting-edge mobile industrial cannabis processing plant has become operational in Empangeni, boasting an impressive capacity to process 700 tons of hemp annually. This facility is expected to supply the growing textile market and play a pivotal role in strengthening KZN’s industrial cannabis value chain.
According to Sheldon “Bobby Greenhash” Cramer, chairperson of the KwaZulu-Natal Hemp Association (KHA), there is substantial interest from French investors eager to tap into the region’s flourishing hemp industry. Cramer highlighted these developments during the recent KHA annual general meeting at the Royal Showgrounds in Pietermaritzburg.
Strategic Partnerships with China for Hemp Seed Registration
In a parallel initiative, Maarten “Matatazela” Dippenaar, director of the Zululand Hemp Company, is spearheading a project to register Chinese hemp seed strains for local and international distribution. Dippenaar emphasized that nine hemp seed strains, each tailored for diverse weather conditions, including drought, are undergoing registration. This move is expected to open up new opportunities for South African farmers and global markets alike.
“Our 2024 trial yielded eight tons of hemp from just two hectares of land—a clear indication of the potential this sector holds,” Dippenaar remarked. “Once registration is complete, we plan to expand distribution across South Africa and into international markets.”
Empangeni and Richards Bay: Industrial Cannabis Hubs
With the Empangeni processing plant now operational, a mobile processor in Richards Bay is also gearing up to process an additional 700 tons of hemp in the upcoming season. These facilities represent a major leap in infrastructure, ensuring KZN remains at the forefront of South Africa’s industrial hemp industry.
French entrepreneur Henry de Villeneuve of CABASA recently toured the Empangeni facility, signaling the potential for future international collaborations. These discussions highlight the growing global interest in KZN’s industrial cannabis sector.
Opportunities for Local Farmers and Entrepreneurs
Cramer emphasized the KHA’s commitment to supporting rural and subsistence farmers. “We’re mentoring farmers and processors along the entire value chain. However, there’s a pressing need for entrepreneurs to develop products from hemp fiber, unlocking the industry’s full potential,” he said.
While hemp farming is regulated under strict licensing conditions—requiring plants to grow at least two meters before harvest—there’s significant potential for local entrepreneurs to benefit from this growing industry. Failure to comply with these regulations could lead to license revocation, highlighting the need for proper industry knowledge and adherence.
Addressing Industry Stigma and Carbon Credit Opportunities
Despite rapid advancements, some challenges persist. Mimi Dwayisi, a first-time farmer from the Ilembe district, faced resistance when seeking land for hemp cultivation. “We have three hectares available and interested parties, but many are hesitant due to lingering misconceptions about hemp farming,” Dwayisi shared.
Cramer believes that as awareness grows, more businesses—especially those with high carbon emissions—will invest in hemp farms. “Hemp absorbs large amounts of carbon dioxide, offering corporations the opportunity to earn carbon credits while contributing to sustainable practices,” he explained.
The Future of Industrial Cannabis in KZN
As KwaZulu-Natal’s industrial cannabis sector continues to expand, the province is poised to become a key player in the global hemp market. With robust infrastructure in place, international partnerships underway, and local entrepreneurs stepping up, KZN’s hemp industry is set for a promising future.