In a ground-breaking move towards fairness and respect for indigenous knowledge, South Africa has witnessed a significant milestone. The first industry wide benefit-sharing agreement on traditional knowledge associated with Rooibos, a precious indigenous plant, has been successfully negotiated and concluded between the South African Rooibos Council (SARC), the South African San Council (SASC), and the National Khoisan Council.
Unveiling the Purpose
Acknowledging the Background: The journey began with concerns voiced by the San community regarding the recognition and protection of their traditional knowledge linked to Rooibos and Honeybush species, widely utilised in the commercial sphere.
Requesting Collaboration: The San Council urged the Department of Environmental Affairs to facilitate dialogues between the San and relevant industries, sparking a necessary engagement for the rightful acknowledgment of traditional knowledge.
Understanding Rooibos: The Gem of the Cape Floristic Region
Rooibos, scientifically known as Aspalathus linearis, is an endemic shrub species found in South Africa's Cape Floristic Region. Recognised internationally as Rooibos tea, this plant holds immense cultural and commercial significance. Its yellow, pea-shaped flowers and needle-like leaves define its unique appearance, while the San and Khoi-Khoi communities have deeply ingrained traditional knowledge about its uses.
Journey Towards a Fair Benefit Sharing Agreement
Establishment of a Working Group: The negotiation journey commenced in January 2016, culminating in the formation of a Working Group comprising representatives from SARC, SASC, NKC, and DEA officials.
Debating Fair Benefits: The heart of the negotiations revolved around establishing a fair monetary benefit to be shared. After an intricate exchange of proposals and the involvement of a mediator, a consensus was reached.
The Concluded Agreement: The result? A ground-breaking agreement stipulating a 1.5% levy of the Farm Gate Price to be paid by processors to the San and Khoi-Khoi communities for utilising traditional Rooibos knowledge.
Key Aspects of the Agreement
Acknowledging Traditional Knowledge: The agreement underscores the recognition of the San and Khoi-Khoi communities' original contributions to Rooibos' development.
Annual Levy for Equitable Sharing: The processors will pay an annual levy of 1.5% based on the actual Rooibos purchased at the Farm Gate Price. This levy will be utilised for the communities' benefit.
Future-Ready: Regular Review & Adherence: The agreement provides for regular annual reviews to ensure fairness and sustainability. Processors will formally adhere to the terms, becoming parties to the agreement.
Embracing a Fair Future
With this landmark agreement, South Africa steps into a future that honours and respects the traditional knowledge of its indigenous communities. The fair sharing of benefits paves the way for a balanced and inclusive approach to utilising nature's gifts while preserving the rights and heritage of those who have stewarded this knowledge for generations. It is a stride towards a harmonious coexistence between commercial enterprise and traditional wisdom.