On 24 February 1999, history was made in George, South Africa, as nearly 80 individuals from across the emerging Honeybush industry came together with one goal: to establish a unified voice for producers of this indigenous tea.
That day saw the official founding of the South African Honeybush Tea Producers Association (SAHPA). The moment was marked by the approval of a preliminary constitution and the election of a standing committee. The original leadership included:
- Chairman: Fritz Joubert
- Deputy Chairman: Quinton Nortjé
- Committee Members: Johan Beyers, Pierre Taljaard, Johan Meyer, Willem Botha, and Rachel Isaacs
Their vision was clear — to create a platform that could support the sustainable development of Honeybush tea cultivation, research, and market access.
As the industry grew, so did the need for greater inclusivity and broader representation. In 2002, SAHPA evolved into what we now know as the South African Honeybush Tea Association (SAHTA). This name change reflected the shift from a producers-only focus to an inclusive structure that welcomes all stakeholders across the Honeybush value chain — from harvesters and farmers to researchers and marketers.
Today, SAHTA plays a pivotal role in promoting Honeybush tea as a naturally sweet, healthy beverage, enjoyed hot or cold, on local and international markets. SAHTA recognises and supports the involvement of traditional and local ecological knowledge holders in the industry, as well as promoting scientific research, encouraging sustainable farming practices, and ensuring the protection of this uniquely South African plant.
As we celebrate this milestone, we honour the pioneers who believed in the potential of Honeybush tea and laid the groundwork for what SAHTA has become. Their collaborative spirit lives on in every cup brewed from the fynbos-covered mountains of the Cape.
Here’s to our shared roots — and a thriving, inclusive Honeybush future.