Figure 1: Eastern Cape Supply Trend Figure 2: Stick bark supply trend. TURNING CHALLENGE INTO OPPORTUNITY: THE BARK PROJECT IMPACT ON COMMUNITIES This resulted in restricted timber intake, placing pressure on members’ cash flow while operational costs remained unchanged. In response, NTE and NCT initiated a focused awareness and education campaign to promote the value of wattle stick bark as an additional income stream, with NTE providing a market for the bark. Through consistent timber supply and the introduction of initiatives such as the stick bark project, NCT suppliers are able to generate additional income, supporting households and improving financial stability. The labour-intensive nature of operations in In addition to increased volumes, suppliers have improved operational efficiency, including better payload optimisation, with a record 32.44 tonnes achieved on a single load. While challenges such as poor road infrastructure, low bark recovery from non-commercial areas, and the need for storage facilities remain, the project continues to grow. Key opportunities include the development of strategic depots, increased A defining moment for the Eastern Cape operation came in 2024, following the fire at the Richard’s Bay wood chip mill. The growth of NCT in the Eastern Cape continues to make a meaningful contribution to local communities, particularly in rural areas where forestry remains a key economic activity. To date, a total of 366.6 tonnes of bark have been delivered, generating over R1.1 million in income for NCT suppliers, excluding an additional R42,260.00 paid in bonuses. Traditionally, bark was largely discarded and considered to have little to no value. Through this initiative, suppliers were encouraged to view bark as a commercial product, improving overall utilisation of the wattle resource. The project was initially driven through consistent and reliable suppliers, creating a strong foundation and encouraging wider participation across the region. participation, and the potential conversion of selfestablished areas into more formalised wattle plantations. The stick bark project has become a critical nontimber income stream, contributing to job creation, improved livelihoods, and strengthening the overall value derived from the wattle resource in the Eastern Cape. the region continues to create employment opportunities across harvesting, loading, and transport activities, directly benefiting local communities. In addition, ongoing engagement, awareness, and support provided to suppliers have contributed to improved participation, operational understanding, and overall development within the sector. Over the past 10 years, the Stutterheim district office has grown from a new operation into a consistent and reliable contributor within the cooperative. This progress reflects the commitment of its suppliers, the support of stakeholders, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions. Through continued growth and initiatives such as the stick bark project, the Stutterheim district office has strengthened its contribution, delivering both operational value and meaningful impact to suppliers and local communities. 39 38
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