Introduction
FynbosFarm will be a project built around a highly successful businessman and the development and training of skilled and semi-skilled staff in the hydroponics and instant turf market. The project aims to create high-quality, high-turnover, intensive production in a small area and provide leadership experience for women.
It is a blend of high-quality, efficient production and cutting-edge food technology. Its mission is to improve the taste of vegetables, as well as provide excellent nutritional and quality value. The company will provide training, experience, and research in hydroponics. It is supported by Mike Shelly, a well-respected grower. This project will be KZN-based. The vegetables will be supplied to national and international markets. Instant turf will also be available for the local market.
Products
The 4 main crops to be grown will be instant turf, long life tomatoes, cucumbers, and coloured peppers.
- Tomatoes: 4ha under plastic which will produce 2100 000 kgs per year
- Cucumbers – 1ha under plastic, which will produce 205000 kgs per annum
- Peppers: 1ha under plastic which will produce 250 000 kgs per year
- Turf: 30ha in the open.
Financial considerations
The company is seeking short-term, as well long-term funding in order to purchase a new farm. This will also help with development costs. This money will be used to cover startup expenses and losses in the first year. The company is expected to begin making a profit in the second year of operation. From the time that the first tunnel was erected, production is expected to start within 8 months.
1.1 Objectives
The objective of this project is to establish an intensive farm, producing high-quality produce for both the national and international market year round.
1.2 Mission
FynbosFarm is a KZN-based company with a two-fold mission:
- to produce high quality, nutritional, and flavourful vegetables for consumption in both local and international markets.
- Local women who work on the farms will have opportunities to lead and be part of a highly productive team.
Women who work on the farm will be divided into groups for intensive work. Each group will receive incentives for production and performance in addition to standard wages.
1.3 Keys to Success
- Efficient production utilizing greenhouses.
- This project is not currently being undertaken in the KZN Region.
- The vegetable industry has been around since 1996.
