Heiveld Co-operative

The Heiveld Cooperative was formed to promote social justice and economic development. Discriminated against due to their skin color, farmers lived on the outer social spectrum during the colonial years. Without any political representation or direct access to markets, the people of Suid Bokkeveld have not only had to deal with economic and social hardships, but unpredictable weather. Drought is not uncommon and extreme temperatures have been known to decimate crops. It has therefore been ideal to grow a drought resistant member of the protea family commonly known as Rooibos tea. Since its establishment in 2001, the Heiveld Cooperative has been able to reinvest in its community through the help of Fair Trade certification and premiums. Representing 60 small scale farmers, the cooperative has helped them develop better livelihoods. The first harvest was created in 2006, which gave a greater employment incentive for women through product packaging. Since Heiveld has begun selling its tea to Fair Trade importers, families’ income has tripled from one Euro per kilo to three Euros per kilo. The additional Fair Trade premiums have allowed the cooperative to invest in economic and social projects. Not only has it benefited cooperative members, but the whole community as well. The main goal was to make smallholders independent from wholesalers and neighboring commercial farms. Through Fair Trade premiums this has become possible. They have been able to buy their own equipment for tea production, invest in staff member training and support local schools and disadvantaged members of the community.