The opening of the country’s first Black-owned wine cellar in Franschhoek is a triumph for transformation and inclusive growth, says the Western Cape provincial government.
The official opening of the Klein Goederust Wine Cellar, according to Western Cape MEC for Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, is a milestone for South Africa’s wine industry.
Speaking at a recent ceremony to launch the cellar, Meyer described the achievement as “a triumph for real transformation and inclusive growth in one of South Africa’s most iconic sectors.”
He emphasised that this milestone demonstrates what is possible when government, industry, and entrepreneurs work together.
Acquired in 2019 by owner Paul Siguqa, Klein Goederust has been transformed from a neglected farm into a thriving boutique winery and tourism destination.
“This is the classic case of farm workers who gave their children a vision of the future. They did not only dream – they worked hard, invested their own resources, and partnered with industry to turn that vision into reality,” Meyer added.
The MEC said the wine industry contributes over R56 billion to gross domestic product (GDP) and supports more than 290 000 jobs, with 98% of wine cellars located in the Western Cape.
Through programmes such as the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP), the Western Cape Department of Agriculture provided funding for vineyard establishment, equipment, and production inputs.
“This project aligns with my four ministerial priorities, including agricultural support, food security, market access, and business support.”
The MEC said these interventions ensure that success is not reserved for a few but shared across communities, creating pathways for growth and dignity.
Driving growth through agriculture
The initiative also aligns with the Western Cape’s Growth for Jobs (G4J) strategy, which aims to achieve breakout economic growth of 4 to 6% by leveraging high-potential sectors such as agriculture and agri-processing.
Klein Goederust integrates farming, tourism, and hospitality, creating jobs and celebrating cultural heritage.
Meyer said 98% of all wine cellars are based in the Western Cape, creating thousands of jobs.
“Growing the economy and creating jobs are the Western Cape Government’s top priorities. The opening of Klein Goederust Wine Cellar in Franschhoek will contribute to economic growth and job creation.”
The MEC stated that the owner’s hard work, compassion, and perseverance led to the opening of this wine cellar.
Both the owner, Siguqa, and the winemaker and farm manager, Rodney Zimba, are children of farm workers.
“This is the classic case of farm workers who gave their children a vision of the future. They did not only dream, but put hard work and their own resources, and their support from many in the industry into their vision, from farmer to farm owner, and now the owner of a wine cellar is a success story in the Western Cape,” he said.
He described Klein Goederust as a beacon of hope and excellence.
“It shows that genuine transformation is not only necessary – it is achievable and sustainable,” Meyer concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
