Near Bethlehem in South Africa’s Free State, an apple-growing partnership is showing how agriculture can create jobs, encourage innovation and open new opportunities.
Remmoho Investments in Agriculture is a 100% black-owned enterprise led by Pitso Sekhoto. Working in partnership at Stead Farm, the business is developing modern apple orchards and aims to create as many as 500 jobs in the region.
The newer orchards use improved apple varieties, higher planting density and modern protective netting. By planting approximately 3,300 trees per hectare—almost twice the density of the older orchards—the farmers expect to increase both productivity and income.
The nearby Maluti pack house expects to handle around 8,000 tonnes of apples during the season. Modern electronic and optical equipment helps sort and grade the fruit, while employees pack the apples by hand and receive regular training.
Around half of the apples are exported, while the remainder are sold through South African supermarkets, fresh-produce markets and local traders. This means the business is reaching international customers while continuing to support the local economy.
The project demonstrates what can happen when experienced farmers, ambitious entrepreneurs, technology and training come together. It is not only growing apples—it is growing skills, employment and confidence in the future of African agriculture.
For MyHappyAfrica, this is a story of partnership and practical progress: people using the land, knowledge and opportunity available to build something that can benefit an entire region.
Source: African Farming
https://www.africanfarming.com/2026/08/16/how-a-free-state-apple-farm-is-transforming-agriculture/
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