Industries in Albertinia

Home of the Aloe

©Chris Daly
Giant aloe statue, outisde the aloe factory, Albertinia.

From humble beginnings in 1900 on the Grootfontein farm to a municipality in 1920 till today, Albertinia’s environment is an ecological success. The producers of the multi-purpose aloe would certainly think so.

Thatch Roofs

In real estate, location is everything. In towns of the Western Cape, the sentiment still stands, especially for Albertinia. Forming part of the Hessequa municipality - hessequa means “people of the trees”, a name given by the indigenous Khoi people - the agricultural town is in excellent company.

The abundance of aloe and resultant aloe products are not the only stars of the town. Albertinia is also known for its production of thatch (Thamnochortus insignis), which is an exported commodity for commercial purposes. Thatch or as it is known by its other names, Albertinia dekriet and winterriet, is a hardy material generally used in roofing. Thatched roofs are predominantly seen in game lodges, while thatch tiles are manufactured and exported to international locations. The construction of thatch tiles allows for a relatively easy installation.

Aloe Ferox

The versatile aloe is known for being the healing succulent. Its fleshy leaves hold nourishing properties that facilitate the healing and im...more