Spekboom Restoration Set to Restore the Local Economy

Led by Imperative and implemented by NatCarbon Africa, the project aims to restore 100 000 hectares of degraded land through the planting of spekboom, one of the world's most effective natural carbon-sequestering plants. The visit also marked the celebration of Amazon's landmark 10-year partnership with Imperial, reinforcing a shared commitment to climate action and sustainable development.

 

The event was attended by Eastern Cape Premier Hon. Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, the MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, the MEC for Rural Development and Agrarian Reform, the Mayor of Dr Beyers Naude Municipality, representatives from Sarah Baartman District Municipality, including the Portfolio Councillor for Infrastructure Development and Community Services, and Municipal Manager, as well as international partners and investors.

 

Imperial CEO, Scobie Mackay, highlighted the project's vision of creating a restoration economy that benefits both people and the environment. Since its launch in 2024, the initiative has established the largest spekboom nursery of its kind, restored over 10,000 hectares, created more than 1,000 jobs, and attracted global interest from investors looking to replicate the model elsewhere. The long-term goal is to restore 100,000 hectares by 2030, creating lasting economic opportunities while generating carbon credits over a projected 100-year lifecycle.

 

Speaking at the event, Premier Mabuyane thanked Amazon for investing in the Eastern Cape and for supporting a project that protects the province's natural resources while creating meaningful opportunities for local communities.

 

Amazon Chief Sustainability Officer, Kara Hurst, said land restoration is central to the company's journey towards net-zero carbon emissions. She noted that spekboom is one of nature's most powerful carbon capture plants and that the decade-long partnership is expected to create approximately 11,000 jobs and attract an estimated R8 billion in investment.

 

Community Enterprise Manager at NatCarbon Africa, Zukiswa Masele, emphasised the project's strong community focus, with residents from Jansenville, Klipplaat and surrounding areas already benefiting through employment opportunities, and business opportunities for local SMME's.

 

The Sarah Baartman District Municipality welcomes initiatives such as the Spekboom Restoration Project, which demonstrate how environmental conservation, investment and community development can work hand in hand to build a more sustainable and prosperous future for the district.