Unlocking KwaZulu-Natal’s Economic Potential through Cannabis – Hemp Conference & Expo

by
4 mins read
c a

KwaZulu-Natal is gearing up for a groundbreaking two-day Cannabis-Hemp Conference & Expo that aims to unlock the vast potential of the cannabis industry in South Africa. The event, organized by the Department of Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, aims to provide rural entrepreneurs with the latest technology, funding, and market access to become leading exporters of high-quality cannabis products. The conference and expo are also expected to boost the local economy while promoting environmental sustainability, and will be open to a diverse audience including industry experts, government officials, and local communities.

What is the KwaZulu-Natal Cannabis-Hemp Conference & Expo?

The KwaZulu-Natal Cannabis-Hemp Conference & Expo is a groundbreaking two-day event aimed at unlocking the vast potential of the cannabis industry in South Africa. Organized by the Department of Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the event aims to provide rural entrepreneurs with the latest technology, funding, and market access to become leading exporters of high-quality cannabis products. The conference and expo are also expected to boost the local economy while promoting environmental sustainability.

KwaZulu-Natal Gears Up for a Groundbreaking Conference

KwaZulu-Natal, a province located in the heart of South Africa, is preparing to unlock a billion-dollar treasure through an upcoming two-day Cannabis-Hemp Conference & Expo. Scheduled for the 27th and 28th of October at the Okhahlamba Sports Complex in Bergville, this groundbreaking event is organized by the Department of Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. The conference aims to capitalize on the vast potential of the cannabis industry, which has been legalized for medicinal purposes within the country.

This event is designed to help local communities that have been growing Insangu, the local term for cannabis, to access global trading markets. With an estimated value of R107-billion in the local industry, the conference presents a significant opportunity for rural entrepreneurs to become leading exporters of high-quality cannabis products.

In order to provide these communities with the latest technology, funding, and market access, the involved Departments are working together to build an integrated approach that includes all government departments and entities. Facilities such as the Analytical Services Laboratory at Cedara and the Agro Processing facilities at Dube Trade are being offered to enable these communities to produce medicinal cannabis that meets international standards.

The Many Benefits of Cannabis

The conference and expo are expected to significantly boost the local economy, but the advantages of cannabis go beyond financial gains. For cancer patients, cannabis offers relief from nausea and appetite loss. Nutritionists value it as a seed that is second only to soybean in terms of nutritional value, providing cooking oil and vitamins. Additionally, manufacturers of paper and cloth have long recognized the plant as a source of material that yields four times more fiber per acre than trees.

Environmentalists also support the cannabis plant for its ability to slow down deforestation and replenish nutrients lost by other crops. Cannabis has the potential to positively influence not only the lives of those who grow it, but also the natural environment that surrounds them.

A Diverse Audience for a Sustainable Future

The KZN Cannabis – Hemp Conference & Expo is open to the public and is expected to attract a diverse audience, including the KZN Premier, Members of the Executive Council, industry experts, government departments, Amakhosi, local communities, cooperatives, small and medium-sized enterprises, the Rastafarian community, and representatives from the creative and cultural industries. The event aims to ignite meaningful discussions, promote knowledge sharing, and lay the foundation for a sustainable and prosperous future for the entire province of KwaZulu-Natal.

In addition to the conference and expo, a series of information sharing sessions are also planned to take place across the province. These sessions strive to create a ripple effect, empowering even more communities to participate in the thriving cannabis industry.

As the world’s perception of cannabis shifts, it is encouraging to witness initiatives like the KZN Cannabis – Hemp Conference & Expo endeavor to create opportunities for rural communities to flourish. By unlocking the full potential of this versatile plant, KwaZulu-Natal is on the brink of a new era of economic development, community empowerment, and environmental sustainability.

1. When and where is the KwaZulu-Natal Cannabis-Hemp Conference & Expo taking place?

The KwaZulu-Natal Cannabis-Hemp Conference & Expo is taking place on the 27th and 28th of October at the Okhahlamba Sports Complex in Bergville, KwaZulu-Natal.

2. Who is organizing the KwaZulu-Natal Cannabis-Hemp Conference & Expo?

The event is organized by the Department of Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

3. What is the aim of the KwaZulu-Natal Cannabis-Hemp Conference & Expo?

The event aims to unlock the vast potential of the cannabis industry in South Africa, provide rural entrepreneurs with the latest technology, funding, and market access to become leading exporters of high-quality cannabis products, boost the local economy, and promote environmental sustainability.

4. Who is the target audience for the KwaZulu-Natal Cannabis-Hemp Conference & Expo?

The event is open to a diverse audience, including industry experts, government officials, local communities, Amakhosi, cooperatives, small and medium-sized enterprises, the Rastafarian community, and representatives from the creative and cultural industries.

5. What facilities are being offered to enable communities to produce medicinal cannabis that meets international standards?

Facilities such as the Analytical Services Laboratory at Cedara and the Agro Processing facilities at Dube Trade are being offered to enable communities to produce medicinal cannabis that meets international standards.

6. What are the advantages of cannabis?

Cannabis offers relief from nausea and appetite loss to cancer patients, provides cooking oil and vitamins, and yields four times more fiber per acre than trees. It can also slow down deforestation and replenish nutrients lost by other crops.

7. Are there any information sharing sessions planned to take place across the province?

Yes, a series of information sharing sessions are planned to take place across the province to empower even more communities to participate in the thriving cannabis industry.

8. What is the potential impact of the KwaZulu-Natal Cannabis-Hemp Conference & Expo?

By unlocking the full potential of the cannabis industry, KwaZulu-Natal is on the brink of a new era of economic development, community empowerment, and environmental sustainability.

View all
rugby ox nche
Previous Story

Ascending the Rugby Ladder: Ox Nche’s Path to Fame and a Year of Chocolate Cake Indulgence

r o
Next Story

A Troubling Rise in Weekend Road Accidents and Traffic Violations

Latest from Blog

firefighters community outreach

Spreading Holiday Cheer: Firefighters Bring Joy to Children

In December 2024, firefighters brightened the holidays for children in care facilities by delivering wrapped gifts with big smiles. Partnering with Pick n Pay, they spread joy and gratitude after receiving support during a tough summer of wildfires. Each visit was a heartwarming reminder of kindness, as firefighters became symbols of generosity, teaching kids about empathy and community spirit. This joyful initiative shows how simple acts of giving can light up lives and strengthen bonds in the community.

justice gender-based violence

A Persistent Nightmare in Embalenhle: Justice Served

In Embalenhle, South Africa, a dark nightmare unfolded as Themba Prince Shongwe committed terrible crimes, including rapes and murders, from 2016 to 2018. The community lived in fear as he targeted innocent girls, causing heartbreak and loss. Finally, justice was served when he was found guilty and sentenced to nine life terms in prison, bringing relief to the grieving families and a sense of safety back to the community. This victory shines a light on the importance of standing against violence and working together to protect the vulnerable.

street lighting community safety

Illuminating Cape Town: Lighting Up Safety and Community

Cape Town’s streetlight program shines brightly as it manages over 245,000 lights, making the city safer and more inviting, especially during the festive season. The community plays a vital role by reporting issues and staying alert, working together to protect these lights from theft and vandalism. With a focus on sustainability, the city is switching to energyefficient LEDs, reducing its environmental impact while keeping streets welllit. This initiative not only lights up the city but also brings people together, creating a warm and safe atmosphere that showcases Cape Town’s beauty at night.

housing development community empowerment

A Beacon of Hope: Gugulethu’s New Housing Project

The Gugulethu Infill Housing Project is bringing joy and hope to the community of Gugulethu, South Africa, by building 52 new homes for deserving families. This celebration marks a fresh start for many, especially the elderly and middleaged residents who finally have a safe place to call home. As they move in, they not only gain shelter but also a sense of belonging and stability. This project symbolizes the community’s strength and resilience, showing that together, they can overcome challenges and build a brighter future. The new homes are more than just buildings; they represent dreams coming true and a promise of better days ahead.

colonel celeste van der klashorst gender-based violence

Championing Justice: The Journey of Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst

Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst is a fearless leader in South Africa’s fight against violence and crime, especially those targeting women and children. With over thirty years of service, she created Child Protection Units and now leads the National SECI Unit, tackling serious issues like serial rape and child pornography. Her team’s recent success in a major operation has led to arrests and rescued children, showing the powerful impact of her work. Colonel van der Klashorst inspires others with her passion for justice, making her a shining example of hope and resilience in the battle for a safer society.