WSU EMPOWERS COMMUNITIES THROUGH CANNABIS OIL WORKSHOP UNLOCKING MEDICAL BENEFITS AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

 Walter Sisulu University (WSU), in collaboration with various stakeholders, hosted a two-day workshop with Burnshill community farmers in Kieskammahoek, focusing on cannabis and its value chain, particularly the extraction of essential oils from the plant.

The workshop aimed to educate community members on the different types of cannabis, its medical applications, and the potential for business opportunities within the industry.

It followed the renewal of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between WSU and Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR), reinforcing the university’s commitment to engaging with rural communities and promoting sustainable economic development through research and innovation.

Cannabis oil, which is rich in cannabinoids such as Cannabidiol and Tetrahydrocannabinol has gained popularity for its potential to treat chronic pain, anxiety, epilepsy, and inflammatory conditions.

During the workshop, participants explored these medical applications in detail, gaining insight into how cannabis-based products can improve health and wellness.

The researchers also highlighted emerging trends, such as the use of cannabis oils in skincare products, aromatherapy, and food supplements, highlighting the expanding business opportunities available in these markets.

Director of Community Engagement and Internationalisation at WSU, Mzolisi Payi, emphasized the importance of engaging community leaders and local farmers to ensure they benefit from the economic potential of the growing cannabis industry.

Payi noted that since cannabis is already being cultivated in the village, it was essential to educate the community about the various strains of the plant and identify those with the highest potential for producing essential oils with therapeutic value.

He added that the next step is to assist farmers in obtaining the necessary licenses and teach them home-based extraction techniques, enabling them to start small businesses by selling cannabis oils locally.

“We want our communities to explore the full spectrum of cannabis benefits and stimulate economic opportunities, particularly in the deep rural areas of the Eastern Cape, where job creation is urgently needed,” Payi said.

Various speakers, including WSU researchers, provided a step-by-step demonstration of the technical process of extracting essential oils. The participants were introduced to the equipment used in the process, such as the Clevenger apparatus, heater, cooling unit, and condenser.

They were also shown how these components work together to separate essential oils from water. A key lesson from the presentation was the importance of using the right jar size and the optimal amount of plant material.

The researchers explained that smaller batches of cannabis with a larger surface area can increase oil yield, offering practical insights for small-scale farmers to optimize their production methods.

The workshop also included educational sessions on plant breeding, tissue culture, and seed generation, equipping participants with the knowledge to cultivate high-quality cannabis strains aligned with market demand and regulatory requirements.

Burnshill community leader, Vuyani Tshaka, expressed his appreciation for the information shared during the workshop, noting that many villagers were unaware of the business opportunities cannabis offers.

“We learned a lot, and this workshop has shown us the importance of unity within the community and the value of partnerships with knowledgeable people who can guide us on the benefits of cannabis,” Tshaka said.

Inspired by what he learned, Tshaka said he now plans to explore cannabis breeding further as a potential business opportunity.

“My key takeaways from this workshop are patience and perseverance. With this knowledge, one can go far, but it’s essential to conduct feasibility studies to make informed decisions,” he added.

WSU Professor Adebola Oyedeji expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic participation of the community members.

“This workshop goes beyond education and that it lays the foundation for a sustainable cannabis economy,” Oyedeji said.

She added that WSU is preparing a research paper to advocate for the benefits of cannabis in planting, selling, and responsible consumption.

The collaboration between WSU, communities, and partners is designed to unlock the economic potential of cannabis in rural communities, encouraging small businesses to thrive through the production and sale of essential oils.

By equipping communities with knowledge and practical skills, this initiative aligns with global trends toward the legalisation and commercialization of cannabis, empowering local farmers to tap into this growing industry.

Stakeholders involved included the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR), Vunikhaya Permaculture, the University of Fort Hare and the National Research Foundation (NRF).

By: Yolanda Palezweni