The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) South Coast, known for its rich agricultural resources, has traditionally supported flourishing sugar cane, banana, macadamia nut, and coffee plantations. Currently, a pioneering entrepreneur is highlighting the region’s untapped potential for mushroom cultivation.
Oatlands Oyster Mushrooms, a fully black-female-owned business situated in KwaNositha near Port Shepstone, has been delivering fresh oyster mushrooms to the local market since 2018.
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The ongoing success of the farm has opened up opportunities for further investment, with intentions to expand into varieties such as king oyster mushrooms, tashik mushrooms, and both yellow and blue oyster mushrooms, available in fresh and dried forms.
“When I started, I had no agricultural background, but I realized that this was the field that could generate significant local income,” says Asanda Mkhize, the owner of Oatlands Oyster Mushrooms.
“The Department of Agriculture offered training in oyster mushroom cultivation, and I was captivated by the fact that they could thrive in nearly any environment, needing very little space.”
Resilient in the face of Covid
Even amid the economic challenges posed by Covid-19, Oatlands has flourished, largely due to its participation in the South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise’s (SCTIE) Buy Local initiative.
This initiative has provided the farm with crucial marketing exposure, networking opportunities, and insights on government support programs. Mkhize credits much of the business growth to this initiative.
“We have consistently attracted more customers through Buy Local, enhancing our supply to various retailers, restaurants, hotels, and many sectors within tourism with our dehydrated oyster mushrooms,” she elaborates.
“There is definitely significant potential for growth in this industry, especially with more dedicated mushroom production facilities to accommodate the six-week growth cycle, and we are looking into accessing international markets as well. We’re also considering diversifying our mushroom products to appeal to new markets.”
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Strategically placed
Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of SCTIE, emphasizes the investment opportunities within the agricultural landscape of the region.
“Those looking to take advantage of the favorable farming conditions will find opportunities across a variety of crops, as well as in the burgeoning agritourism sector on the KZN South Coast,” he remarks.
“The region’s advantageous location provides logistical benefits, including easy access to national networks and its contribution to the Eastern Seaboard Development, which further facilitates access to the domestic market.
“Moreover, its proximity to Durban Harbour boosts access to the global market as well.”
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