Agriculture and Community Development

As a mining company, Pan African Resources lacks expertise and experience in agriculture. That is why we have selected agribusiness development specialist Primocane Capital to lead the strategic and infrastructural implementation of Project Blue.

Primocane Capital has a proven track record in agriculture development that ensures the right cultivars are planted for the target market based on a predetermined offtake agreements. Their core focus is to invest in and develop niche agriculture environments that support sustainability, while offering favourable returns for investors and the communities in which it operates.

With a specialist partner on board, we can develop the most efficient and sustainable farming practices to ensure optimal agricultural production – which, in turn, ensures these investments will have a lasting impact on our local communities.

Barberton’s geography and climate makes the area one of the best locations for blueberry cultivation in South Africa. South Africa has a reputation for producing high-quality fruit in international markets, and the agricultural sector is vital to South Africa’s economic development. The local and international blueberry market has grown tremendously, with significant demand for blueberries from Europe, the Middle East and the Far East.

For the local communities, the farm will provide a much-needed boost to the local economy and assist in small business development whilst also combatting the high levels of unemployment.

At Matsamo Village, in the Nkomazi District, Pan African Resources upgraded the hawkers’ market stalls, and provided storage facilities; running water; electricity and ablution facilities for the fruit and vegetable market stall area. Our objective is to assist small business enterprises and ensure their sustainability, as well as improve cleanliness where food is sold, which contributes to better hygiene and health in our communities.