POSTPONEMENT OF INCEMA HARVESTING OPERATIONS SCHEDULED FOR MAY 2025

01 May 2025

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, in collaboration with the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority, regrets to inform the public that the previously announced Incema harvesting operations scheduled to take place from 5th to 20th May 2025 have been cancelled.

This difficult decision was taken following the recent heavy rains that have severely affected the St Lucia area and its surroundings. The prolonged downpours have resulted in significant waterlogging, rendering large portions of the harvesting areas inaccessible. Despite the possibility of the rains subsiding, most of the Incema plants remain submerged, making harvesting unsafe and unfeasible at this time.

As a result, the Incema harvesting operations have been officially postponed to the 2026 harvesting season. New dates for the 2026 season will be communicated in due course.

Expressing her regret on postponement, Ms Vuyi Radebe who is the Executive Manager: Biodiversity Conservation said “We acknowledge the importance of Incema harvesting for cultural, economic, and social purposes, and we share in the disappointment of the affected communities. However, the safety of harvesters and the sustainability of natural resources remain our top priorities. We thank all stakeholders, including the St Lucia and Western Shore Incema Harvesting Committees, for their ongoing support, cooperation and commitment.

For enquiries, you can contact Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Communications Manager.

Musa Mntambo
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife: Communications Manager
Tel: +27 (0) 33 845 1743
Cell: +27 (0) 83 284 9586
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.