Growth Sectors

The Cacadu District Growth and Development Strategy has identified four key economic sectors for further development and investment. Accordingly, these sectors – agriculture, manufacturing, tourism and Small and Medium-size Enterprises (SMMEs) - are pivotal to the economic growth of Cacadu.

·          Agriculture

The well-established agricultural sector forms the basis of the district economy. Farming activities in the district range from extensive small-stock farming to intensive fruit and vegetable production in the major river valleys. The coastal regions offer opportunities for mixed farming, which includes the raising of beef cattle, dairy farming and the cultivation of pineapples, chicory and grain. Ostrich sheep and goats are farmed inland. Wool and mohair is exported from the Karoo area. The district recently saw a shift away from the predominant stock farming with a number of farmers having converted from traditional livestock farming to game farming in the interest of conservation and tourism.

·          Manufacturing

Opportunities exist for increased manufacturing in the district that is linked to agro-processing. Manufacturing activity within the district includes a number of small manufacturing concerns situated throughout the district, predominantly in larger urban areas. The focus of manufacturing concerns in the district is centred on food and leather processing, in addition to a number of niche market industries such as high quality furniture.

·          Tourism

Tourism is becoming an increasingly important economic activity in the Cacadu District Municipality. Recent conversions from traditional commercial farming to game farming have resulted in an emphasis on game farms. There are no fewer than twenty game reserves in the district that facilitate a range of outdoor activities, including, but not limited to, hiking, birding, mountain biking, and fishing. In addition to game reserves, the district is home to coastline spanning Kou-Kamma, Kouga and Ndlambe Local Municipalities.

These sectors are aligned with the sectors identified for accelerated growth in the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative of South Africa (AsgiSA) and the Eastern Cape’s Provincial Growth and Development Plan.