The presentation of the Organic Freedom Project in the region will enjoy national television coverage, with Levubu being a focus point.

"The greater Levubu area as the only tropical zone is one of the key focus areas where we want to build capacity of farmers who want to go the organic route. The area can be developed into one of the most successful organic zones in the world," says Heinrich Schultz from OFP. An OFP workshop will take place on March 20 in the Levubu Community Hall at 09:00.

In the past, there were two challenges for organic farming in the area and these have now been addressed by OFP.

"There is now both secured market access and technical assistance for organic farmers," Schultz said.

Schultz is no foreigner to the area. He attended the Soutpansberg Primary School and his father, Hans Schultz, grew up in Tshakuma. Hans represents HADATCO, a company specializing in agricultural development and training, while Heinrich is an agribusiness expert of OFP.

Organic Freedom has already tested the interest at a preliminary workshop with key role-players, held at Molozi Trust on February 13. Leaders of the avocado and macadamia study groups, organic farmers and other interested parties attended the meeting.

A visit to the royal Tshivase family took place on the 14th where Chief Tshivase expressed keen interest in this agricultural initiative. Their tea plantations have gone a couple of years without pesticides and could go organic. OFP would be able to assist with technical advice, development of farmers, certification of products and market access. A follow –up meeting with Chief Tshivase is in the pipeline.

There is huge and fast-growing demand for organic produce and products, both overseas and in South Africa, but almost no local supply. Correctly managed, organic farming and production will address environmental as well as unemployment challenges. Limpopo has the resources needed and the market already exists.

These are all facts supplied by OFP, which is a non-profit organization with the aim of promoting job creation and sustainable trade through the farming and processing of organic products, including bio-fuel. OFP’s mission is to create 100 000 new jobs in South Africa by 2014. Its board is chaired by Jody Scheckter, former Formula 1 world champion and a top organic farmer, and the co-sponsors include Pick ‘n Pay and Anglo Coal.

Organic farming does not use harmful chemicals, pesticides or additives – this means the soil is healthy and replenished, not contaminated and depleted. Organic produce is not force-ripened and never grown from genetically engineered seed. All produce will be certified by internationally recognized certification bodies and produced in alignment with Fairtrade principles. OFP will co-ordinate production in accordance with Pick ‘n Pay’s requirements and will set up information and service centres for the organic farmers.