Media Release: Blitz Operations Conducted at Spaza Shops in Haarlem
17 April 2025
On Wednesday, 9 April 2025, the Environmental Health Practitioners (EHP) from the Outeniqua region of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) conducted a joint inspection in Haarlem, in conjunction with the Uniondale South African Police Service (SAPS) and Law Enforcement Officers from the George Municipality (Uniondale/ Haarlem).
Three shops were visited and thoroughly inspected.
According to Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel, “the health and safety of our residents remain a top priority for the Garden Route. These joint inspection blitzes are not only essential for enforcing compliance, but also for continuously educating business owners about the importance of maintaining hygienic environments—especially where food is stored, handled, or sold”.
During the joint inspection the following issues were identified:
Inadequate pest control (rodent infestation);
Animals on the premises (cats inside food area);
Structural shortcomings (water leaking through open seams and cracks in the ceiling);
Food products not complying with the labelling legislation were dealt with accordingly.
According to Janine Koopman, GRDM EHP, two shops were closed on grounds of non-compliance with the Regulations governing General Hygiene Requirements for Food premises, the Transport of food and Related matters, section 5, sub regulation (3) (a)(i); (c)(ii), (d)(v), and the Garden Route District Municipality Municipal Health By-Laws, PG. No. 8018 of 10 December 2018, Chapter 2 Relating to Health Nuisances, section 6, (4) (a)(b)(c).
Programme: NQF Level 4, Occupational Certificate: Early Childhood Development Practitioner (97542) x 100
Another Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative!
The Garden Route District Municipality invites unemployed persons currently residing within the Garden Route district municipal area, to apply for training opportunities within the Local Government sphere for a qualification as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative. Preference will be given to persons with disabilities. Applicants should be between the ages of 18 and 60.
Opportunities are currently available within the following municipal areas within the Garden Route district: George x 15, Mossel Bay x 15, Knysna x 14, Ladismith x 14, Bitou x 14, Hessequa x 14 and Oudtshoorn x 14.
Applications need to have the following entry requirements:
NQF Level 3 qualification, equivalent to Grade 11
Exit Level Outcomes
Plan and prepare broad-phase learning environment and stimulating activities that meet the holistic needs of all children in centre-based or non-centre-based settings.
Facilitate and mediate all aspects of the daily programme in a centre-based or non-centre based setting.
Observe, assess and record each child’s progress according to the age and stage.
Compile a report of each child’s progress.
Maintain and promote the well-being, health, nutrition, safety and protection of children.
Please note that no stipends will be paid for this training.
THE GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY WILL ONLY CONSIDER APPLICATIONS COMPLETED IN FULL AND IF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS HAVE BEEN UPLOADED (NB: The system only recognises PDF format documents):
A copy of a South African ID Document certified within the last six months.
A copy of your highest educational qualifications certified within the last six months.
An updated copy of your CV.
For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Reginald Salmons at 044 803 1363, Ms Dineo Ramasesane at 044 803 1447 or Mrs Nolwando Sambokwe at 044 803 1345, during office hours only. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within one month of the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.
Drivers License (Code C) 140 Training opportunities for unemployed
Another Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative!
Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) invites unemployed persons between ages of 18 to 40, male or female residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area, to apply for an opportunity to be trained for a Drivers License Code C as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca initiative. Opportunities are currently available within all the seven (7) municipal areas of the Garden Route district:
Hessequa, Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Bitou, Oudtshoorn and Kannaland.
The total number of opportunities available for each municipal area is 20 each.
Applicants must have Grade 11 (NQF 3) or equivalent as a minimum requirement.
Persons must be between ages of 18 to 40 .
Men and women must reside within the boundaries of the Garden Route district.
Scope of Qualification
A qualified learner will be able to:
Demonstrate attitudes related to drivers to reduce driving risks and maintain safety on the roads.
Demonstrate techniques to improve driving skills and apply the system of vehicle control.
Drive a motor vehicle in accordance with the system of vehicle control requirements with specific reference to the applicable K53 tests.
THE GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY WILL ONLY CONSIDER APPLICATIONS COMPLETED IN FULL AND IF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS HAVE BEEN UPLOADED:
An updated CV
Certified South African ID Copy (ID Card both sides must be copied).
Certified copy of highest educational qualifications
For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Reginald Salmons at 044 803 1363, or Sisanda Sajini at 044 803 1450 during office hours only.
Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within two months of the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.
Media Release: Regional Tourism Office will be at the World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2025 with Local Tourism Offices and Several Businesses
8 April 2025
Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Regional Tourism Office will once again join more than 6000 travel industry professionals at the World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2025, held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) from 9 – 11 April 2025. Local tourist products from the Garden Route and Klein-Karoo will attend the WTM Africa as part of a collective initiative. According to Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel, “the WTM, annually brings travel professionals from around the world together to connect, network, and explore business opportunities within the African travel market”.
“It is therefore important for the GR&KK to be present at this platform to promote the offerings of the region, alongside Local Tourism Offices”.
Key features of WTM Africa include:
Exhibitions to showcase destinations, travel services, and products.
Networking that provides opportunities to meet industry peers and potential business partners.
Conferences and Seminar sessions on the latest trends, insights, and innovations in the travel industry.
Pre-scheduled meetings to facilitate business discussions and deal-making.
Visiting the World Travel Market enables the Regional Tourism Office to establish valuable relationships and collaborate with global industry leaders and travel professionals. They will gain valuable insights into the latest trends and innovations in the travel industry, helping the office to remain competitive and well-informed.
This year, the GRDM Executive Mayor, Alderman Andrew Stroebel, will attend the event alongside officials from the Regional Tourism Office. According to Stoebel, “By attending this prestigious event provides an excellent opportunity for Local Tourism Offices and tourist products in the region to showcase the region’s attractions, services, and unique experiences to a global audience, increasing visibility and attracting more tourists to the region. The Regional Tourism Office is responsible for promoting the entire region on international platforms like this, ensuring the GR&KK brand is recognized and positioned as a preferred travel destination of choice in the highly competitive tourism industry in the world,” Mayor Stroebel said.
Come join us and our esteemed stakeholders at Stand number: Q03 on the following dates:
Wednesday, 9 April 2025: 10:00 – 18:00
Thursday, 10 April 2025: 10:00 – 18:00
Friday, 11 April 2025: 10:00 – 16:00
Our stakeholders include:
Mossel Bay Tourism
Plett Tourism
Emily Moon
Simola Hotel Country Lodge & Spa
Crags Country Lodge
George Wilderness & Uniondale
Wilderness Hotel
Redberry Farm
Hessequa Tourism
Seeplaas
Cape Saint Blaize
Offshore Adventures
Issaquena Heights Boutique Hotel
Visit Knysna
Lithemba Arts & Crafts
Parkside Guesthouse
Rooiberg Lodge
Cango Caves
De Zeekoe Guest Farm
RJ Tours
For those who are in Cape Town over the next few days, pop-in at the GR&KK exhibition to connect, explore and support our regional and local tourism offices.
Featured Image Caption: A photo from a previous year’s World Travel Market (WTM) Africa, showcasing various products at the Garden Route & Klein Karoo stand.
Media Release: GRDM Hosts Fun Run to Raise Awareness for World TB Day
24 March 2025
In commemoration of World Tuberculosis (TB) Day which is today, 24 March, the Environmental Health Practitioners (EHP) from the Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Hessequa Office, in collaboration with the local Child Welfare South Africa office in Hessequa, hosted a 5km fun run on Saturday to celebrate and raise awareness about TB.
The fun run took place in Riversdale, starting at the Town Sports Stadium (“Steg”). Approximately 120 community members, including councillors, and local rugby players, participated in the event.
The event was officially opened by Councillor Jobieth Hoogbaard, the Portfolio Chairperson for Community Services. During a brief speech, Hoogbaard welcomed everyone and mentioned that it is always enjoyable to participate in community initiatives—not only for the fun of it but because there is always an important purpose behind them.
“The purpose of this fun run is, first and foremost, to raise awareness about TB and to convey the message that TB can be prevented and is easily treatable. Too many people in our communities die from TB every year, and enough is enough,” said Hoogbaard.
The theme for the 2025 World TB Day is ‘YES! WE CAN END TB: COMMIT, INVEST AND DELIVER.
Among the participants were several dedicated young athletes who took the fun run very seriously.
The GRDM Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel, who is also a local resident, attended the celebrations. Stroebel used the opportunity to engage with residents and handed out water and cool “ysies” to participants at the water point, encouraging them along the way. Towards the end of the festivities, Mayor Stroebel conducted the lucky draw and handed over the power bank prize, to the lucky winner. He delivered the closing remarks, thanking the participants and everyone present, especially the children, for their support.
The Riversdale Municipal Health Office wants to use this opportunity to thank all individuals and shop owners for the donations received. “We were quite surprised with the turnout this morning as well as with the support we received from both our superiors and our local community,” said Bronwen Moolman, one of the organising members from the Riversdale office.
A special word of gratitude to:
Sponsors:
GRDM Communications
Child Welfare SA – Riversdale
Riversdale Superspar
JC Butchery
Era Soda
Klein Begin Ice
Bubble Boys Space
The staff of the local FNB branch
Engen One Stop – Riversdale
Riversdale Hospital
EMS
Droom
CPF Riversdale
DJ – Ethan du Preez
Sandra Daries
Hessequa Municipality
Acknowledgments:
Riversdale Blues Rugby Club – for assisting with the setup and cleanup of the stadium.
Riversdale Town Rugby Club – for allowing the use of their home field.
Caption: Exciting Activities from This Morning’s Fun Walk/Run!
MEDIA RELEASE:Paediatric Surge Season: Protecting Young Children from Diarrhoea and Respiratory Illnesses
19 March 2025
As the period between November and May marks the paediatric surge season, healthcare professionals are urging parents and caregivers to remain vigilant in preventing and managing diarrheal and respiratory related disease in young children. Both diarrhoea and pneumonia remain one of the leading health risks for infants and young children, yet it is both treatable and preventable with prompt action.
November 2024 to 3 March 2025 stats shows that 1585 children in the Garden Route district were hospitalised at public hospitals with pneumonia. The First 1000 Days of a child’s life presents a crucial window of opportunity to ensure optimal growth and development. One of the most effective ways to safeguard children’s health during this season is ensuring they are vaccinated on time according to the recommended schedule, which significantly reduces the risk of severe symptoms associated with common paediatric illnesses.
Know the Danger Signs – The Road to Health booklet provides vital information on warning signs that requires urgent medical care. If a child exhibits any of the following, immediate medical attention should be sought:
Persistent coughing and rapid breathing
Inability to feed and presence of fever
Vomiting everything consumed
Diarrhoea( loose ,watery stools ) accompanied by sunken eyes and a swollen fontanelle (soft spot on an infant’s head,18 months and younger )
Shaking or convulsions
Signs of malnutrition such as swollen feet and hands
Inability to breastfeed
Lack of movement or response
From November 2024 to 3 March 2025, 1266 children in the Garden Route district under the age of 5 presented with diarrhoea. Of those, 559 children were hospitalised. If a child develops loose stools, immediate administration of an oral rehydration solution or Sugar Salt Solution is advised. This can be prepared by adding half a level teaspoon of salt and eight level teaspoons of sugar to one litre of cooled, boiled water. If breastfeeding, give more frequent and longer breastfeeds at a time.
Recognising Dehydration Symptoms
Parents and caregivers should be aware of the symptoms of dehydration, which include:
Reduced urination
Dry mouth
Few tears when crying
Sunken eyes
Weakness
Severe dehydration is a medical emergency and presents with symptoms such as:
Drowsiness
Pale or mottled skin
Cold hands or feet
Dry nappies
Rapid and shallow breathing
Althea Adams, clinical programme coordinator in the Garden Route: “Our healthcare facilities provide diagnosis and treatment for a range of childhood illnesses. Especially during surge season, our healthcare staff offer valuable guidance on nutrition and encourage families and caregivers to seek medical care as promptly of showing any of the danger signs”.
Parents and caregivers play a vital role in protecting children from the dangers of diarrheal disease and dehydration. Early intervention can save lives and ensuring that children receive the necessary medical attention in time is crucial.
Featured Image Caption: Staff Nurse Jacqueline Howley-January from Plett Town Clinic discussing the sugar-salt solution with patients.
Twenty five years ago the United Nations declared 3 March as International Wildlife Day dedicated to the celebration of fauna and flora, as well as marine life, globally.
South Africa is the custodian of some of the world’s most unique fauna and flora and has over decades invested heavily into conserving our very special habitats and bio- diversity from over- exploitation and extinction.
The good news is that there are today perhaps more land under conservation and official protection than fifty years ago, but despite these obvious goals there are many problems of which the most prominent is the near extinction of South Africa’s black and white rhino population due to relentless and violent poaching, and perhaps not as conspicuous there are several other plant and wild life species facing a similar fate country wide.
The conservation and protection of fauna and flora has to face many challenges in a South Africa that looks vastly different from what it was fifty years ago.
Some of the biggest challenges include a fast- growing population with an insatiable quest for land to be developed and supporting infrastructure, as well as the more recent impact of a changing climate and changing rainfall patterns which are proving to be substantial in its detructive impact.
Perhaps the single biggest threat to conservation in South Africa is invasive alien plants (I&AP’s) which found a very fertile home for themselves in millions of hectares covering the full extent of the South Africa in one degree or another depending on climate, rainfall and soil types.
Almost impossible to eradicate I&AP’s has rendered large sections of the South African landscape unusable for agriculture and conservation, and is spreading at an alarming rate putting ever more of the country’s sensitive eco- systems under threat of irreversible destruction.
Due to negative land management practices and invasive alien plants in primary catchments and rivers systems, South Africa has already lost more than two thirds of our precious wetland systems sustain an array of eco- systems found nowhere else on the planet.
The conservation of South Africa’s fauna and flora rests on the shoulders of all its citizens, whether it includes not dumping rubbish in undesignated spaces, by not contaminating or over extracting water resources or clearing your land from invasive alien plants, let us unite in conserving our beautiful land and celebrate our natural heritage.
Featured image caption: A Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus, often seen at the lakes all around the Garden Route region.
Media Release: EHPs of the Garden Route District Municipality celebrate Global Handwashing Day
17 October 2024
In a quest to raise awareness about the critical importance of hand hygiene, Global Handwashing Day was celebrated across the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) the past few days, joining the rest of the world in promoting handwashing as a simple but powerful tool in preventing diseases.
The annual Global Handwashing Day, which takes place on October 15, promotes the importance of handwashing with soap as an effective and affordable way to prevent the spread of diseases. To curb the spread of illnesses like diarrhea, respiratory infections, and other communicable diseases, the day focused on educating communities about washing hands, especially before meals and after using the bathroom.
Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) play a fundamental role in preventing disease transmission. Throughout the year, they conduct health education outreach programs, equipping communities with knowledge on how to prevent communicable diseases.
Shaping ‘Little Minds’ for a Greater Impact
This year, EHPs carried out a series of interactive activities across the region, focusing on educating young children. Their aim was to influence “little minds” at schools with the hope that these children would, in turn, pass the message to “big minds” at home, creating a ripple effect of improved hygiene practices. These efforts are part of the district’s broader campaign to promote public health and prevent the spread of communicable diseases.
George Office
The GRDM George Region EHPs celebrated Global Handwashing Day with the Grade R – 2 learners of Geelhoutboom VGK Primary School, just outside George. The learners were very excited to participate in this life-changing lesson taught by educators from GRDM.
Mossel Bay Office:
EHPs from the Mossel Bay office provided education on proper handwashing at Tao Tao Kleuterskool and St. Blaize Kleuterskool in Mossel Bay. A total of 79 children, along with their teachers, attended these sessions.
Bitou Office:
The EHPs from the GRDM Bitou sub-office, Zoleka Goniwe and Nokuphiwa Mbali, visited Khwezi Lokusa Educare in KwaNokuthula, Plettenberg Bay, to refresh learners and educators on the importance of handwashing.
The children enjoyed the hands-on activity demonstrated by the officials, showing the correct way to wash hands. The principal of the facility expressed gratitude to the GRDM team for reaching out to the crèche and supporting the fight against diseases that can be prevented by proper and frequent handwashing.
Oudtshoorn Office:
EHPs from the Oudtshoorn office held awareness and education sessions at schools and crèches in the Kannaland and Oudtshoorn areas, emphasizing that handwashing is the easiest, simplest, and most effective way to prevent bacterial illnesses. Health and hygiene awareness sessions were conducted by Environmental Health Practitioners in the Klein Karoo region at Roodewal Primary School near Oudtshoorn and The Heuwel Speelskool Crèche in Bergsig, Calitzdorp. A total of 60 learners participated in these handwashing awareness sessions.
Outeniqua Office
On Monday, 14 October 2024, representatives including Councillors and officials from the Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Municipal Health and Disaster Management Units, visited two crèches in George as part of the municipality’s national celebration of Global Handwashing Day, observed today 15 October 2024, to promote hygiene awareness.
Read the separate statement about this visit here.
Councillors with EHPs at a creche in Borchards.
Rub hands together briskly and thoroughly.
Did you know?
Critical point for washing of hands are:
Before, during, and after preparing food
Before and after eating food
After using the toilet
After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
After touching waste
Before and after caring for someone at home who is sick with vomiting or diarrhea
Did you know?
Hand washing benefits both young and old and is the first line of defence in preventing the spread of disease and must be embraced vigorously by families, schools and health care professionals.
MEDIA RELEASE: Garden Route District and Hessequa Municipalities Join Forces with more stakeholders to clean parts of the Stillbay beach
4 October 2024
Yesterday, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), in partnership with Hessequa Local Municipality, rolled out a coastal cleanup at Stillbay. The cleanup, which began at the Preekstoel Caravan Park, forms part of the GRDM’s ongoing support to local municipalities to clean areas from illegal dumping and other waste.
GRDM annually coordinates resources for these clean-up events with support from the Provincial Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEA&DP) and the National Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE). This year, the GRDM secured 237 bottles of still water, 237 notebooks with pens, gloves from the Provincial DEA&DP, and additional resources from DFFE to equip the youth participants engaged in today’s clean-up. The resources were handed over by the GRDM Portfolio Chairperson for Community Services, Councillor Jobieth Hoogbaard, to Cllr Hendrik Saayman, Hessequa’s Portfolio Chairperson for Development Planning.
Besides officials from the GRDM and Hessequa Municipality, today’s cleanup was supported by stakeholders including the DEA&DP, DFFE, and the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR). The collective aim was to celebrate International Coastal Cleanup by removing litter from beaches and waterways, contributing to the global effort to protect oceans and coastal environments.
During the session, Mondray Arries, Drowning Prevention Instructor from the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), stationed in George, gave a brief and insightful awareness presentation on water safety, the factors contributing to drowning, and what to do if you get into trouble in the sea. He also demonstrated how to apply CPR if someone is saved from drowning and explained what steps to take after rescuing someone.
GRDM Portfolio Chairperson for Community Services, Councillor Jobieth Hoogbaard, delivered a brief speech at the event’s commencement, expressing gratitude to all stakeholders and highlighting the significance of the initiative. “Today, we will make a difference by removing waste from our coastline, we also help preserve our valuable marine life so that future generations can enjoy the beauty and biodiversity of our oceans. This is a step in the right direction to ensure the protection of our coast and marine life,” Hoogbaard stated.
Marine Week, celebrated during the second week of October each year, complements International Coastal Cleanup Month in South Africa. These events, driven by DFFE, focus on raising public awareness about the importance of oceans and coastal ecosystems, promoting sustainable usage and conservation. Numerous coastal and river cleanups are organized across the country in September and October to commemorate these events.
Dr. Nina Viljoen, Head of Environmental Management at GRDM, extended a challenge to all residents living near oceans, rivers, or lakes to take part in their own cleanup efforts. “Grab gloves, a sun hat, and a couple of refuse bags. Head down to your local beach, riverbank, or lakeside and pick up some litter. Make it an event—invite friends or colleagues and enjoy a coffee afterwards. One bag makes a difference, especially when thousands take action,” she encouraged.
Featured image and collage: Activities during yesterday’s Coastal Clean-up in Still Bay, where volunteers worked together to remove litter and debris from the shoreline, helping to preserve the local marine environment.
The GRDM is proud to support initiatives like today’s coastal cleanup, which are essential for raising awareness about marine conservation and ensuring a healthier, cleaner environment for future generations.
Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality and stakeholders held Export Seminar in George
For immediate release 20 September 2024
Yesterday, 19 September 2024, various stakeholders including the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, Wesgro and the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) and other support organisations convened at the George Banquet Hall to participate in an export seminar.
Stakeholder representatives at the Export Seminar held on 19 September 2024 in George.
Deputy Mayor of George Municipality, Ald Raybin Figland, welcomed all present at the event.
Ald. Rosina Ruiters, GRDM Portfolio Chairperson: Integrated Economic Development & Tourism shared a message of support.
Krishen Gorge: Acting Head of Export Promotion at Wesgro during his presentation. at the seminar.
Richard Dyantyi, Manager: Integrated Economic Development & Tourism, delivered a presentation on behalf of GRDM.
Ilsa van Schalkwyk, Acting Director-General of DEDAT, provided an overview of the purpose of the District Export Outreaches.
George Business Chamber’s Theo Adams, presented the operations and successful projects rolled out by the Chamber.
Martin Cameron from the Trade Research Advisory shared an overview on an export study and opportunities.
GRDM’s Cllr Cobus Meiring, shared his appreciation to all stakeholders and business representatives who attended the event.
Martinus van Wyk from DEDAT, facilitated the proceedings and discussions of the Export Seminar held in George.
The seminar that was hosted by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, in collaboration with Wesgro and the GRDM, created a platform for potential exporters in the region to be informed about the new export markets and export opportunities. The seminar allowed for businesses to engage in information sharing, awareness creation and networking with strategic partners. Mechanisms to enhance export competitiveness were also shared at the event.
In his welcoming address to attendees, the Deputy Mayor of George, Ald Raybin Figland, said that the engagement is a platform for like-minded individuals with one goal in the centre of it all; how to promote and drive economic growth, so that the economies, district and the Western Cape, can flourish.
Extending a message of support to all organisations, businesses owners and entrepreneurs who formed part of the event, Ald. Rosina Ruiters, Portfolio Chairperson for Integrated Economic Development and Tourism at the GRDM said: “The Garden Route District Municipality has a dedicated Business Support and Development Programme through which we support various businesses including those with export potential”. In addition, Ruiters highlighted that exporting products presents an invaluable opportunity for economic diversification and growth, creating jobs and generating wealth for our communities as is stated in the GRDM’s Growth and Development Strategic Vision”. Ruiters also emphasised that the success of the region’s export initiatives relies on strong partnerships. “Collaboration between government, private businesses, and trade experts is essential to building the networks that will open doors to new markets, ” she said. Ruiters encouraged all businesses present to utilise these resources and networks as they embark on or expand their export journeys, and that the event will leave them inspired and ready to take the next steps toward expanding their business globally. While encouraging all present to seize the opportunities ahead and transform potential into prosperity, she said: “The world is looking for what the Garden Route has to offer, and together, we can ensure that our district shines on the global stage”.
Ilse van Schalkwyk, Chief Director for Economic Sector Support at DEDAT provided an overview of the purpose of the District Export Outreaches and shared some background of the provincial Growth for Jobs and export strategies. She also presented the export trends for the Western Cape and sensitized exporters on support levers available to the private sector.
Richard Dyantyi, Manager responsible for Integrated Economic Development and Tourism at the GRDM, delivered a presentation on the Garden Route Export Development initiatives. He further proudly mentioned a few commodities that are being exported from the region, that includes: canola, pomegranate, wines, ostriches to name a few. In terms of the potential commodities that are ready to be exported, honeybush was highlighted as one of the products as an example. With regards to a conducive environment to compliment these export activities, Dyantyi said that plans to develop the port in Mossel Bay are fast progressing for the purpose of diverting goods that need to be exported and he that “Mossel Bay port is a strategic link between Cape Town and Richards Bay and/or Durban. Dyantyi further emphasised that all stakeholders need to focus on a plan that is fit for purpose, specifically for the Garden Route, that will also consider the inputs from businesses of the district in terms of exporting.
Safari Braai Products representative, Peter Reinstorff, presented the export operations of the local braai company that is exporting for almost 11 years. The company is currently exporting a diverse range of products across the world. To potential exporters present, he advised that businesses need to focus on the quality of the product, and that business owners should study the market to determine the demand for the product and most importantly they should thoroughly study the relevant legislation in relation to exporting e.g. packaging requirements etc.
The event also allowed for the George Business Chamber representative, Theo Adams, to present the operations and projects successfully rolled out by the Chamber. While sharing detailed information of the Chamber, he also shared information on funding opportunities and the type of compliance documents that need to be submitted.
Martin Cameron from the Trade Research Advisory shared an overview on an export study and opportunities. Cameron further shared valuable advice on international trade and various factors on how geographic dimensions need to be considered for international trade. A few examples included socio-economic factors, e.g. religion, culture, taste, as well as transport focusing on circulatio]n and movement, commercial transactions as well as economic activities (supply and demand).
The event concluded with Nomandla Nene from Wesgro demonstrating to all business representatives how to access and navigate the Cape Trade Portal, which can be accessed at: https://capetradeportal.com/.
Cllr Cobus Meiring, Councillor at GRDM, extended a word of appreciation to the DEDAT and all stakeholders involved for hosting the event in the district, also focusing on seeing a database of exporters to be created, to utilise it as a working tool for potential exporters in the Garden Route.
