South African Breweries (SAB), part of Anheuser-Busch InBev, is taking innovative steps to ensure that Corona beer enthusiasts can continue enjoying their favorite beverage with its essential lime garnish. Facing a domestic shortage of limes, SAB has injected 19 million rand (approximately $999,000) into a pioneering lime farming initiative in Limpopo, South Africa’s northernmost province. This venture not only aims to stabilize lime supply for the iconic Mexican beer but also supports local agriculture and communities.
Zoleka Lisa, SAB’s Corporate Affairs Vice President, highlighted the urgency of the project, noting that limes occupied less than 10% of South Africa’s citrus farmland, leading to shortages and increased reliance on imports. “The situation was unsustainable,” Lisa explained, “not only due to unpredictable availability but also because it escalated costs significantly.”
To tackle this challenge, SAB partnered with the Moletele community, which provided the land, and Komati Fruit Group in 2020 to cultivate limes. This collaboration has since birthed what is now the largest lime farm in South Africa, according to Piet Smit, CEO of Komati. Spanning 60 hectares, the farm’s 2023 harvest is expected to yield about 700 metric tons of limes, far surpassing the initial target of 300 tons.
The lime farming project’s success is a testament to the power of community and corporate partnership in driving agricultural innovation. “It’s quickly become the biggest lime farm in South Africa,” Smit shared with pride. Beyond securing a stable lime supply for Corona, the initiative is making a tangible difference in the lives of local residents.
Among those benefiting from the project is Pontsho Mathebula, a mother of two who operates the farm’s irrigation system. Before joining the lime farming initiative, Mathebula faced significant hardships. “I know poverty, I’ve experienced it,” she recounted, emphasizing the transformative impact of her employment on her family’s well-being. “Because of that job, my kids will never go to school hungry. They will have school bags and shoes on their feet,” Mathebula expressed, highlighting the broader social benefits of SAB’s investment.
The project not only ensures that Corona beer can continue to be enjoyed in its traditional manner but also contributes to local economic development and job creation. By investing in lime farming, SAB is addressing supply chain challenges while fostering growth and prosperity within the Moletele community. This initiative stands as a shining example of how strategic investments in agriculture can yield far-reaching benefits, from enhancing the consumer experience to uplifting communities and promoting sustainable practices. As SAB’s lime farming project flourishes, it sets a precedent for how businesses can creatively solve supply issues and contribute positively to local economies and ecosystems.
