The Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza has welcomed the opening of a 100% black owned winery by the child of a farm worker.
Klein Goederust is the first and only 100% black owned wine farm in Franschhoek. The 116 year old Klein Goederust farm was solely acquired from the savings of many years by the son of a farm labourer.
“The opening of wine tasting room and restaurant at Klein Goederust farm tomorrow is testimony to government efforts of ensuring equitable access and participation of black people in the wine value chain and the wine industry,” said Minister Didiza.
The owner and CEO of the 10 hector Klein Goederust farm, Mr Paul Siguqa acquired the farm in 2019 in a dilapidated state and in the last 3 years he focused on land and soil analysis, correction and planting of new vines with the help of government. He also renovated historic buildings on the farm.
“ I want to change the narrative that children of farm labourers are condemned to life of working on white owned farms and can never really own part of this industry” said Mr Paul Siguqa.
The Minister also emphasized that the opening of Klein Goedrust will contribute positively to the wine and tourism industry of Franschhoek and the province of the Western Cape. Government has assisted Mr Siguqa with a tractor and irrigation system.
The neighbouring farms and Franschhoek Tourism have welcomed the opening of Klein Goedrust warmly and have shown support and the owners of the neighbouring La Motte Wines have offered to mentor Mr Siguqa.
Klein Goedrust wine tasting room and restaurant will officially open its doors on December 3, 2021