New partnership strengthens wool sector in South Africa’s rural communities
Collaboration between farmers, academia and government targets sustainable income and job creation in the Free State and Eastern Cape.
SOUTH AFRICA – A new partnership between the National Wool Growers Association (NWGA), the Free State Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (FSDARD), and the University of the Free State (UFS) is set to reshape wool production for smallholder farmers across the Free State and Eastern Cape.
This collaboration forms part of a broader programme known as Agri-food Systems and Entrepreneurship Development, supported by TAGDev 2.0.
The 10-year initiative, funded by the Mastercard Foundation, focuses on tackling youth unemployment in agriculture through work readiness, entrepreneurship and expanded job creation along the value chain.
“This strategic initiative combines academic expertise, industry knowledge and government support to create sustainable solutions for rural communities,” said Prof. Jan W. Swanepoel, Director of the Centre for Sustainable Agriculture, Rural Development and Extension at UFS. He also coordinates the TAGDev 2.0 programme in South Africa.
Supporting growth from the ground up
The programme supports communal farmers by helping them move from subsistence farming to viable, market-facing enterprises.
According to Swanepoel, UFS provides the research foundation and hands-on training needed to support farmers throughout the wool value chain.
“The university contributes scientific knowledge in sustainable agriculture, sheep production and wool quality improvement, which will be implemented by communal farmers,” he said. “The university’s role extends beyond traditional research to include comprehensive capacity-building programmes that cover practical skills for all participants in the wool value chain, from primary producers to wool processing.”
The NWGA adds long-standing experience and technical skills that are key to boosting productivity and quality. Swanepoel explained that the NWGA supports ram breeding programmes with Merino SA and the Dohne Merino Breed Society to improve flock genetics.
The association also trains farmers in sheep care, wool classing and shearing – all vital steps to improve wool value.
The NWGA also brings farmers together through organised wool growers’ associations. This structure allows them to pool their wool, raise classing standards and connect with formal auctions.
“This collective approach transforms individual farmers from being price-takers who sell to informal traders into organised groups that can negotiate better prices through formal auction systems,” Swanepoel explained.
A broader support system
The FSDARD contributes the administrative backing and grassroots connection needed to reach rural households.
“Their involvement ensures that the project aligns with provincial and national agricultural policies while addressing the specific needs of rural communities,” said Swanepoel.
The department’s extension officers support training and follow-up, while also helping farmers access agricultural schemes and resources for infrastructure like shearing sheds. Swanepoel added,
“Their role in community linkages is particularly important for ensuring that marginalised groups, including youth, women and people with disabilities, are actively included in project activities and benefits.”
By combining scientific input, practical skills and government support, this partnership aims to raise incomes, expand opportunities and support rural families.
“We are passionate about this project’s potential to transform communal wool production into a profitable, sustainable enterprise that enhances livelihoods while preserving rural communities,” said Swanepoel.
“We believe it exemplifies how collaborative partnerships can create meaningful, lasting change.”
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