At Sigma Farm, we believe people are the foundation of everything we do—from the orchards to the offices. One such person is Stephanie van Niekerk, who recently won first place in the regional OTPV Agricultural Worker Competition in the administrative category. But her story stretches far beyond a title—it’s a story of legacy, determination, and …
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By Carla Nieuwoudt As a renowned fruit exporter from South Africa, Bet-El Fruits has built its reputation on quality and consistency in the global citrus and grape markets. Now, the company is branching out into an exciting new venture—exporting Proteas, South Africa’s iconic national flower, to international markets. Fynbos Blooms from Citrusdal and Franschhoek Bet-El …
Read more “Life on Board: How Fresh Produce Travels the World by Sea”
As a renowned fruit exporter from South Africa, Bet-El Fruits has built its reputation on quality and consistency in the global citrus and grape markets. Now, the company is branching out into an exciting new venture—exporting Proteas, South Africa’s iconic national flower, to international markets. Fynbos Blooms from Citrusdal and Franschhoek Bet-El Fruits has partnered …
Read more “Bet-El Fruits Expands Horizons: Introducing South Africa’s Unique Flower Exports”
Background and History Nestled in the Olifants River Valley near Clanwilliam, Silwerstroom Farm has been a family-run operation for three generations. The farm, once focused on potatoes and nectarines, has evolved into a diversified enterprise producing citrus, rooibos tea, and pears. Annelie and Erie de Beer now manage the farm, and has also added a …
Read more “A Legacy of Growth and Resilience: The Story of Silwerstroom Farm”
Chikwala Farm, nestled in the heart of the Loskop Valley, is a family-owned operation whereinnovation and sustainability are at the core of its citrus farming practices. Willem van der Merwe,the second generation to farm this land, has taken the farm in a new direction, building on hisfather’s legacy of table grapes to establish a flourishing …
Read more “Circuva: Where Innovation Meets Sustainability in Citrus Farming”
Cultivating Legacy: The Story of Charl van der Merwe and Noordhoek Farm Nestled in the upper reaches of the Oliphants River in the Western Cape lies Noordhoek Farm, a testament to three generations of dedication and passion for agriculture. Charl van der Merwe, the current steward of this land, carries forward a legacy that began …
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Dihano van Rooi’s journey from Sigma Farm to Rustenburg High School is a testament to the power of determination, community support, and unwavering perseverance. Born and raised on Sigma Farm, nestled in the heart of South Africa near the quaint town of Trawal, Dihano’s childhood was marked by the warmth of community and the spirit …
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In South Africa, the efficient functioning of ports is crucial for the export of fruits, a vital sector for the economy. Recently, Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) provided an update on the status of port equipment, shedding light on the challenges faced and the strategies being pursued for recovery. Additionally, insights from the Fresh Produce Exporters …
Read more “Navigating Port Challenges: The Path Forward for South Africa’s Port Infrastructure”
Stephen, a seasoned gardener at Sigma Farm, shares his inspiring story of overcoming challenges and finding purpose in his work by propagating and planting over 3000 roses. Stephen Philander (52), born in Simonstown and raised in Citrusdal, discovered his passion for gardening and agriculture at a young age. Despite his upbringing in a citrus-rich region, …
Read more “Cultivating Purpose: A Sigma Farm Worker’s Story of Resilience, Hope and Roses”
As the South African fruit market experiences a shift in dynamics due to Peru’s reduced presence in European markets, Bet-El Fruits emerges as a key player in the subtropical and berry sector. Martin de Kock, the subtropical and berry marketer at Bet-El Fruits, shares insights into the current market trends. Blueberries Bet-El Fruits entered the …
Read more “Impact of Peru’s Limited Presence on the South African Fruit Market”