THE FUSE

Cannabis and hemp producers from across the Sekhukhune District have taken an important step towards building a stronger and more coordinated hemp industry by establishing the Sekhukhune District Hemp and Cannabis Forum. The new forum was formed at the Vleischboom Farmer Support Production Unit (FSPU), bringing together growers and other stakeholders with an interest in developing the emerging sector. Its establishment comes as government continues to position low-THC hemp as a potential driver of rural economic development, agricultural diversification and job creation. The forum is expected to give producers a platform to work together on common challenges while identifying opportunities across the hemp and cannabis value chain. Its formation also reflects growing interest among farmers in participating in a formal industry that can create new agricultural and commercial opportunities.