ECONOMIC POWER OF SOUTH AFRICA’S PLANTED FORESTS

South Africa’s forestry sector contributes an estimated R8 billion to the country’s GDP, while supporting more than 150 000 jobs and livelihoods – many of them in rural areas where economic opportunities are limited. The sector also supports a further R58 billion in value-added activity across downstream industries such as sawmilling, pulp and paper, packaging and construction.

Forestry is often viewed through an environmental lens, but its economic contribution is equally significant; from supporting rural livelihoods to enabling downstream industries, planted forests are a key part of South Africa’s economy. In addition, in the case of harvesting, transport, processing and manufacturing, forestry provides a stable source of income while sustaining a network of contractors, small growers and suppliers.

Programmes such as Sappi’s Khulisa initiative are expanding this impact, supporting more than 4000 small scale growers and supplying 5.6 million tonnes of timber. Skills development initiatives are also creating pathways into enterprise – Merensky’s Komazi Woodwork Project is equipping unemployed youth with practical skills to start their own businesses, while supporting local schools through the production of desks and furniture. In KZN, the NCT/NTE Wattle Regeneration Project is supporting small-scale growers in the Greytown area with seedlings and expertise to establish commercially viable plots; some participants are progressing to become independent growers and local employers.

In addition to wood and fibre, forestry landholdings are increasingly supporting tourism, recreation and local enterprise. Activities such as trail running, hiking and mountain biking are creating new income streams and jobs in rural areas. Events such as the Karkloof Classic and Trail Festival generate R6.88 million in direct economic impact.

Forestry also creates value by supporting biodiversity, cultural practices and community wellbeing. Through the Sappi Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species Programme, partnerships and conservationists, traditional healers and local communities are helping to cultivate endangered medicinal plant species that are vital to cultural traditions and primary healthcare.

Forestry is about far more than timber – it is about how these natural resources are managed to deliver value across economic, social and environmental outcomes.

www.forestrysouthafrica.co.za