WITKLIP FARM
A Century and a Half of Stewardship
160 Years of Agricultural Excellence in Graafwater
B-BBEE Level
2
Farm Size
930ha
The Heritage
A Century and a Half of Stewardship
The story of Witklip Farm began over 160 years ago. Since the mid-19th century, the Burger family has served as the dedicated custodians of this land in Graafwater.
Through generations of changing climates and evolving markets, the farm has remained a pillar of the Western Cape's agricultural landscape.
Our deep-rooted history is not just about time; it is about a century-long commitment to the soil, the community, and the excellence of the West Coast harvest.
The Modern Partnership
Driving Transformation and Innovation
In 2025, tradition met a new vision. The partnership between Mr. Burger and Mr. Van der Berg was forged to propel Witklip Farm into the future of South African agriculture.
Supported by the Land Bank, the Department of Agriculture, and Potatoes SA, this collaboration has successfully transitioned the farm into one of the largest BBBEE-certified potato operations in the country.
Today, we combine 160 years of farming wisdom with modern empowerment goals, ensuring that Witklip remains a beacon of commercial success and social transformation.
B-BBEE Profile & Compliance
A Leader in Agricultural Transformation
As one of the largest empowered potato operations in South Africa, Witklip Farm is a certified Level 2 B-BBEE contributor.
Following our successful transition in 2025 under the Burger and Van Der Berg partnership, we have achieved a 125% procurement recognition status.
This achievement reflects our dedication to the Department of Agriculture's transformation goals and our role in fostering an inclusive and sustainable agricultural sector in the Western Cape.
"The partnership photo showing Gysbert Burger, Landbank Regional Manager, and Cohen Van Der Berg represents the collaborative spirit that drives our transformation forward."
Corp Production
Excellence in Every Harvest
Potatoes
Scale and Production Consistency
At Witklip Farm, we maintain a robust production schedule, planting and harvesting between 100 and 140 hectares of potatoes annually.
This significant acreage, managed across our specialized West Coast soil, allows us to ensure a consistent, high-volume supply for our commercial partners and distributors while maintaining the stringent quality standards for which we are known.
Carrots
Specialized Carrot Cultivation
In addition to our potato operations, Witklip Farm dedicates 30 hectares annually to the production and harvest of premium carrots.
Leveraging the unique soil conditions of the West Coast, we apply the same rigorous quality standards and precision farming techniques to our carrot cultivation, ensuring a crisp, high-grade product for the fresh produce market.
Livestock
Nurturing Quality from Farm to Table
Witklip Farm is home to a significant and well-managed livestock division, specializing in the breeding of rare Merino sheep.
Our large-scale flock is a core component of our diversified farming model, contributing to the farm's circular economy and sustainable agricultural practices.
Agro-Ecological Potential & Future Expansion
While our current focus remains on our core potato, carrot, and livestock operations, the unique soil profile and Mediterranean climate of the West Coast provide Witklip Farm with significant potential for further diversification.
Our technical soil assessments indicate high suitability for a wide range of high-value agrarian products, including:
This inherent land versatility allows us to remain agile, responding to global market trends and ensuring the long-term commercial sustainability of the estate.
Potential Expansion Overview
| Potential Product | Soil Suitability | Market Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Rooibos | Optimal | Global Export |
| Hemp/Cannabis | High Potential | Industrial/Medical |
| Onions & Beetroot | Optimal | Fresh Produce Market |
| Nuts & Wheat | High Potential | Bulk Processing |
Farming Standards and Welfare
Commitment to Standards & Ethics
At Witklip Farm, our 160-year legacy is built on the principle of "doing things right." We adhere to the highest South African and international agricultural benchmarks to ensure food safety, environmental health, and the compassionate treatment of our livestock.
Agricultural Excellence
We follow Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) to ensure that every potato, carrot, and grain leaving our farm is safe, nutritious, and sustainably grown.
Animal Welfare
Our Merino sheep are more than just a commodity; they are a vital part of our farm's living ecosystem.
Compliance & Certification
Witklip Farm operates in full alignment with:
Sustainability & Environmental Practices
Our Commitment to the Land: Sustainability in Action
At Witklip Farm, we recognize that our 160-year history is a direct result of the land's health. As custodians of over 930 hectares in the Graafwater region, we are committed to farming practices that protect our unique West Coast environment for another century to come.
Water Stewardship
In the semi-arid climate of the Western Cape, water is our most precious resource.
Soil Regeneration
We do not just use the soil; we replenish it.
Minimal Footprint
Maximum yield with a minimal environmental footprint.
Community Development & Economic Impact
At Witklip Farm, we believe that true agricultural success is measured by the prosperity of the people who work the land. Our operation is a vital source of livelihood in the Cederberg municipality, and we take our role as a regional employer seriously.
Building a Sustainable Workforce
We provide a balanced employment model that offers both long-term career stability and broad-scale seasonal opportunity:
12 Permanent Staff Members
Our core team consists of 12 dedicated professionals who oversee the daily operations, technical management, and long-term stewardship of the farm. These permanent roles provide year-round financial security and specialized skills development for local families.
100+ Seasonal Opportunities
During our peak planting and harvesting cycles, Witklip Farm scales up to support approximately 100 seasonal workers. This surge in employment provides a critical economic boost to the Graafwater community, offering essential income during the busiest times of the agricultural calendar.
Level 2 B-BBEE Impact
Our 2025 transition into a Level 2 B-BBEE entity was a deliberate step toward a more inclusive economy.
- 125% Procurement Recognition for partners
- Skills Transfer to the next generation
"Our workforce is our greatest asset. By providing stable jobs for our 12 permanent team members and creating over 100 seasonal opportunities, we aren't just harvesting potatoes and carrots—we are growing the local economy of Graafwater."
— Mr. Burger & Mr. Van Der Berg
Certifications & Industry Compliance
Quality is Not a Promise It is a Verified Standard
Our operations are governed by strict adherence to South African agricultural regulations and international best practices, ensuring that every harvest is safe, traceable, and ethical.
Good Agricultural Practices
Our potato and carrot production lines are managed in alignment with Good Agricultural Practices (GAP).
B-BBEE Level 2 Accreditation
Witklip Farm is a certified Level 2 B-BBEE Contributor, providing a 125% procurement recognition level.
Industry Affiliations
We operate under the guidance and standards of South Africa's leading agricultural bodies.
Meet the Team
The People Behind Witklip Farm's Success
Gysbert Burger
Farmer & Director
Cohen Van Der Berg
Farmer & Director
Angelo Petersen
Non-Executive Director
Jarred Jones
Witklip Farm Manager
William Juul
Witklip Livestock Manager