Ramaphosa Says Investors Will Plant Apples in Free State for Savanna

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that the government is bringing investors who want to plant apples in the Free State. These apples will be sold to manufacturers of Savanna, the popular South African cider.

Speaking during a recent engagement in the province, the ANC president said the Free State’s weather is suitable for apple farming. “We are bringing investors who want to plant apples here in the Free State and sell them to manufacturers of Savanna,” he told the audience. “I don’t know what Savanna is, but some of you know what Savanna is.”

He noticed some people laughing and added with a smile: “I see some of you are laughing like you drink this Savanna. They will invest money to plant the apples because the weather in the Free State is conducive for planting apples.”

The comments highlight efforts to grow agriculture and create jobs in the Free State. The province already produces crops and livestock, but leaders want more value-added processing. Apples can be turned into cider, juice and other products instead of only being sold fresh.

Savanna is a well-known dry apple cider made in South Africa and sold in many countries. Local production of apples can support such manufacturers and reduce reliance on imports. Similar projects already exist in the Free State, including apple orchards near Bethlehem and plans for juice concentrate plants that aim to create permanent and seasonal jobs.

Officials say investment in farming and processing can help small farmers, young people and rural communities. When investors plant orchards, they also need workers for planting, picking, packing and transport. Over time, this can lead to factories that process the fruit and supply both local and export markets.

Ramaphosa’s remarks form part of wider plans to attract capital into the Free State’s economy. The province has been promoting special economic zones and agricultural projects to move beyond primary production. Apple farming fits this approach because the climate allows good yields when proper methods are used.

Residents and farmers in the Free State are expected to benefit if the promised investments materialise. More orchards mean more income for landowners and more work for labourers. Processing plants nearby would keep more of the value of the crop inside the province.

The president’s message is clear: the Free State has the right conditions for apples, and government is working to bring the money needed to plant them. If the plans succeed, local communities could see new opportunities linked to a product many South Africans already enjoy.

Source: https://x.com/newslivesa/status/2114218238179430594