North-West University (NWU) alumnus Lesedi Moseki delivered an insightful presentation on the potential commercialisation of castor oil bean plants in South Africa during a webinar held on 9 May 2024.
Hailing from Pampierstad, Lesedi, a social agripreneur and founder of the Igrovest Group, provided valuable insights into his journey towards establishing a thriving agricultural enterprise.
The Igrovest Group (Pty) Ltd is dedicated to agricultural development, focusing on the commercialisation of castor oil production through various strategic pillars. These includer seed breeding, farming, agro-processing, biotechnology, distribution and training.
Armed with degrees in agricultural economics from the NWU and UNISA, Lesedi's career path embodies a blend of academic rigor and practical experience gained through roles in various agricultural organisations.
His venture into the castor oil project was spurred by the realisation of the demand for biodiesel derived from sunflowers. Despite initial setbacks during planting trials in multiple South African locations, he persisted. He invested in enhancing his knowledge through training courses and conducted extensive research to develop high-performing seeds suitable for local conditions.
He also realised the importance of community involvement, and continues to empower small-scale farmers and creating employment opportunities for the youth.
Reflecting on his achievements, Lesedi expressed gratitude for the recognition and support he received, including backing from the NWU for research and development and winning the second prize at the Innovation Hub’s 2023 GAP Competition.
Speaking on the broader implications of his project, he emphasised the aim to establish a new agricultural commodity industry with a structured commercial value chain. He also highlighted the significance of collaboration and empowerment through contract grower agreements for commercial and small-scale farmers, backyard gardeners and schools.
Lesedi's vision extends beyond his current endeavours, and he aims to replicate the project's success across South Africa. This ambition aligns with the country's potential to reduce its reliance on castor oil imports, currently valued at R400 million annually and dominated by a few international companies.
“Taking into account the global shortage of 100% organic castor oil, there are many untapped opportunities for South Africa to produce castor oil and its by-products, such as jet fuel, biodiesel and bio-fertilisers,” he said.
Highlighting the environmental and social benefits of his work, Moseki underscored the significance of castor oil bean plants, despite being classified as an alien invasive species in South Africa. “These plants are drought, pest and disease resistant and contribute to reducing carbon emissions, supporting the goals of the Kyoto Protocol.”
NWU alumnus Lesedi Moseki is championing the commercialisation of castor oil in South Afric
