About Us
Bosveld Sitrus (Pty) Ltd was established by Theodore Maximilliaan Thalwitzer marking our entrance into citrus production.
Getting to know the
Komati Fruit Group
Nurtured Nature
The Komati Fruit Group, owned by the Milaan Thalwitzer Family Trust, operates as a corporate business that places great emphasis on preserving the traditional family business principles of owner involvement and management. The Group places significant importance on integrating corporate governance into its operations, consequently promoting sustainability and social responsibility. The Group’s roots can be traced back to 1954 when Theodore Maximilliaan Thalwitzer, also known as “Mannetjie,” purchased his initial farm, called The Plains, situated along the banks of the Letaba River near Letsitele, Limpopo. His primary objective was to cultivate citrus fruit. In 1956, Theodore Maximilliaan Thalwitzer’s son, Milaan, joined him after obtaining his degree in Agriculture from the University of Pretoria. Over time, the initial 100 hectares of citrus farming has expanded to what the Group has become today, encompassing over 5,000 hectares of citrus production.
History of the Komati Fruit Group
Becoming the leading private producer and exporter of citrus and sub-tropical fruit in South Africa
The Komati Fruit Group is a diversified agricultural company strongly rooted in South Africa’s agricultural landscape. We are a leading producer and exporter of citrus and sub-tropical fruits, with multiple subsidiaries and farms specialising in various agricultural products such as citrus, avocados, mangoes, litchis, sugarcane, macadamias and more. The Group also engages in community involvement and empowerment initiatives, with a focus on empowering previously disadvantaged entities. We have a wide geographical footprint, minimising production risks by operating in different climatic regions and accessing various water sources.
Motivations behind the involvement in Businesses and Farms:
The Komati Fruit Group’s involvement in various businesses and farms is driven by several factors:
- Diversification: We diversify our agricultural portfolio by engaging in the cultivation of various crops such as citrus, avocados, mangoes, litchis, sugar and more. This diversification helps us to manage risks associated with climate, market fluctuations, and crop-specific challenges.
- Geographical Spread: Operating in different regions with various farms and subsidiaries helps minimise production risks. Different geographical locations provide access to diverse climates and water sources, reducing the impact of adverse weather conditions.
- Community Empowerment: We are committed to community involvement and empowerment, as seen in partnerships with previously disadvantaged entities and community-based initiatives. This not only aligns with social responsibility but also enhances access to resources and markets.
- Market Expansion: The acquisition of farms and the establishment of new subsidiaries allow the group to expand its presence in the market. With a wide range of products, we cater for diverse market demands, both locally and internationally.
- Strategic Growth: We strategically grow our operations by entering into lease agreements and partnerships with other entities. This enables us to discover new markets and resources while managing financial and operational aspects effectively.
At the Komati Fruit Group, our legacy of excellence continues to evolve, driven by a passion for agriculture, a commitment to community betterment, and a dedication to sustainable growth. We remain at the forefront of South Africa’s agricultural landscape, producing high-quality fruits while nurturing nature and communities in order to ensure long-term success.
A letter from the CEO
In my role as the CEO of Komati Fruit Group, it holds great significance for me to establish a clear understanding of our company’s operations and the rationale behind our approach..
From the commencement of our business, our vision has been to play a vital role in the South African Citrus Industry. Our company is structured into different departments, each overseen by either one of our family Directors or key members of our management team. This growth and expansion positioned us as a leader in both the Production and Marketing sectors within the South African fruit industry.
Our managers dedicate significant efforts to ensure root and soil health, aligning with our core value at the Komati Fruit Group — Nurtured Nature. This commitment is evident in every facet of our operations, from soil preparation and production to the delivery of our products to customers. Replanting older trees not only equip future generations but also reflects our commitment to invest in new varieties and nurturing sustainability for years to come.
While we are determined in our commitment to environmental stewardship, we also prioritise the well-being of our employees – the human capital that brings our “leading contributor vision” to life. At present, we employ over 1 500 permanent staff members and create more than 1 800 temporary job opportunities during the peak citrus season.
Our success is based on two fundamental principles: Cultivating enduring relationships with our customers and consistently delivering the highest quality fruit punctually. We nurture consistent quality – from our orchards to your table.
Piet Smit, CEO of the Komati Fruit Group
