Following the demise of the International Mohair Association the first-ever Summit, scheduled to coincide with the international year of natural fibre, is expected to be the biggest and most important gathering of the global industry in years. It will take place in the Karoo in early November, 2009.
According to Andrew Binning of Inkanyezi Event Organisers, appointed as facilitators and secretariat of the summit, growers, buyers, manufacturers, sellers, fashion designers and interior decorators from around the world will be invited to attend a conference and trade show at Jansenvile and Graaff-Reinet – in the heart of the world’s biggest Angora goat farming region.
“The main aim is for roleplayers to exchange innovations, grow markets, explore new applications and experience first-hand the splendour of the place around which the mohair industry revolves,” said Binning. “Participants will find themselves inspecting goats on a farm one day, then watching top models show off the latest mohair fashions in the luxury of a five-star bush resort the next.” He explained that the trade show will enable roleplayers to demonstrate products and services in a dynamic, personal way, while the two-day conference will feature experts giving commentary and analysis on mohair issues.
Binning believes the event could be held annually to bring sustained returns and growth to the industry by addressing critical issues. At the same time, he noted, it will help promote tourism to the Karoo. – Roelof Bezuidenhout Contact Andrew Binning on 082 372 9247.
Black honey producers association launched
The Eastern Cape Honey Producers Association was recently launched in Bisho with 50 initial members, in the hope of bringing together black beekeepers and developing them into commercial honey producers who can profit from the growing demand for honey in the local and export markets. E astern Cape MEC for Agriculture Gugile Nkwinti said his department will play a significant role in ensuring that the association grows and is sustainable.
He encouraged all government departments to become involved in the development of black honey producers. “The business has enormous potential to improve the economy of the province,” he said. D epartmental senior communication officer Thozi Manyisana said they have trained 30 extension and advisory officials to help with sustaining the project. “About R730 000 has been used to buy equipment for beekeepers and this will be topped up as needed,” Manyisana confirmed. Among the departments involved are the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry and the Cape social development department, as well as the Agricultural Research Council. – Peter Mashala Black honey producers
