A “triumph for true transformation and inclusive growth in one of South Africa’s most iconic sectors.” This is how Klein Goederust, South Africa’s first black-owned wine cellar, was praised during its official opening.
The Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, this week celebrated a landmark achievement in South Africa’s wine industry—the official opening of Klein Goederust Wine Cellar, the country’s first black-owned wine cellar, located in Franschhoek.
Speaking at the event, Minister Meyer hailed the opening as “a triumph for real transformation and inclusive growth in one of South Africa’s most iconic sectors.” He emphasised that this milestone demonstrates what is possible when government, industry, and entrepreneurs work together.
Acquired in 2019 by owner Paul Siguqa, Klein Goederust has been transformed from a neglected farm into a thriving boutique winery and tourism destination.
“This is a classic case of farm workers who gave their children a vision of the future. They did not only dream – they worked hard, invested their own resources, and partnered with industry to turn that vision into reality,” Meyer added.
The wine industry contributes more than R56 billion to GDP and supports over 290,000 jobs, with 98% of wine cellars located in the Western Cape. Through programmes such as the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP), the Western Cape Department of Agriculture provided funding for vineyard establishment, equipment, and production inputs.
“This project aligns with my four ministerial priorities: Agricultural Support, Food Security, Market Access, and Business Support,” said Meyer. “These interventions ensure that success is not reserved for a few but shared across communities, creating pathways for growth and dignity.”
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The initiative also aligns with the Western Cape’s Growth for Jobs (G4J) strategy, which aims to achieve breakout economic growth of 4%-6% by leveraging high-potential sectors such as agriculture and agri-processing. Klein Goederust integrates farming, tourism, and hospitality, creating jobs and celebrating cultural heritage.
Minister Meyer added: “Ninety-eight percent of all wine cellars are based in the Western Cape, creating thousands of jobs. Growing the economy and creating jobs are the Western Cape Government’s top priorities. The opening of Klein Goederust Wine Cellar in Franschhoek will contribute to economic growth and job creation.
“The owner’s hard work, compassion, and perseverance led to the opening of this wine cellar. Both the owner, Paul Siguqa, and the winemaker, Rodney Zimba, are children of farm workers. This is a classic example of farm workers who gave their children a vision of the future. They did not only dream, but worked hard, invested their own resources, and, with support from many in the industry, turned that vision into reality. The journey from farm worker to farm owner – and now wine cellar owner – is a true success story in the Western Cape.”
“Klein Goederust is a beacon of hope and excellence. It shows that genuine transformation is not only necessary – it is achievable and sustainable,” Meyer concluded.
