In a landmark event following years of advocacy and planning, the Eastern Cape Province proudly announced a significant investment aimed at harnessing the economic potential of cannabis. The R100 million investment by Medigrow in the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ), is set to create 90 direct employment opportunities in indoor growing, packaging, extraction, and manufacturing.
Medigrow aims to establish a network of high-quality cannabis producers, envisioning cannabis as a widely accepted form of medicine. Established in 2017, the company has become a prominent player in South Africa's cannabis industry, boasting 14 medicinal cannabis farms across the country. With its latest facility situated in Zone 3 of the Coega SEZ, Medigrow is solidifying the Eastern Cape's position as the premier hub for cannabis industrialisation in the country.
Eastern Cape Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane welcomed Medigrow and its investment in the Eastern Cape economy. He expressed confidence in their success and reaffirmed the government s commitment to realising the full potential of cannabis as a driver of economic prosperity, as well as social development in the province.
The investment announcement pays tribute to the resilience of indigenous cannabis growers who endured adversity to protect this valuable plant, deeply rooted in African heritage," Premier Mabuyane said.
Premier Mabuyane, together with the leadership of the 6th Administration, have demonstrated their commitment to exploring cannabis as a means of economic growth since the beginning of the term in 2019. Collaborative efforts involving research institutions like the Agriculture Research Council (ARC) and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) exemplify the province's efforts to empower local cannabis farmers.
Also present in the unveiling in Gqeberha were the MECs for Rural Development and Agrarian Reform, Honourable Nonkqubela Pieters, Finance, Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Mlungisi Mvoko, and Health Nomakhosazana Meth.
