SAEDF Portfolio Company Spotlight: Gili Greenworld Holdings
When SAEDF invested in Gili Greenworld Holdings in 2000, it gave the agribusiness the ability to thrive and grow by establishing a successful business model. Through this opportunity, previously unemployed local citizens are now able to own farm land and contribute to the nation’s harvest. In addition to receiving bonuses, those participating in the system are also paid dividends. Through SAEDF’s investment, Gili Greenworld Holdings, in turn, created wealth through equity.
In total, this SAEDF investment has helped to create 200 jobs forlocals, and created a farming system based on equitable land ownership. According to CEO Gil Arbol, “SAEDF’s patience and understanding of our company has helped us make a complete U-turn and come out of a normally ‘no go’ situation. Today I can honestly say we are on our original track due to SAEDF’s involvement.”
As a result of its success in the agribusiness industry, Gili Greenworld was also able to invest in the Goodhouse Paprika Project. This land reform project resulted in the harvesting of paprika to create a major export for South Africa. The spice is now sold and distributed to Europe, the United States, Mexico, the Far East and the Middle East.
