10 March 2020
We embarked on a road trip with Silke Helfrich to visit the Wupperthal Original Rooibos Co-operative (WORC), which offered profound insights into sustainable agriculture and community resilience. Nestled in the challenging terrain of South Africa’s Cedarberg Mountains, WORC stands as a testament to the perseverance and ingenuity of small-scale farmers. Representing a rare segment in the predominantly plantation-driven rooibos industry, these farmers have been cultivating rooibos for generations, overcoming historical adversities and environmental challenges.
The cooperative’s members, constituting less than five percent of all rooibos producers, have transformed the adversity of being displaced in the 1800s and enduring apartheid, into a strength. Growing food in dry, rocky soil, they have honed their skills to produce a higher quality of rooibos tea, notable for its slower growth and enhanced attributes, compared to plantation-grown counterparts.
At the heart of WORC’s success is their collaborative spirit. The cooperative emphasizes capacity development, skills training, and collective marketing under their unique brand, fostering a supportive environment for each member. Their commitment extends beyond their community as they are also integral members of the ‘Trust Organic Small Farmers’—an international alliance advocating for eco-ethical trade and goods.
