Residents of Tlhanyaku have started harvesting wild rosehip berries to sell as a means of meeting some of their socio-economic needs. Many of them rely on this seasonal activity to earn a temporary living, as they face unemployment.
The harvesters collect rosehips from naturally growing thorny bushes from April to August, working daily to fill 20-litre buckets. Each full bucket earns them M50.00, which they say is insufficient to meet their basic needs.
Speaking to the Agency, one of the harvesters, Keneoakae Molapo, expressed concern over the low prices offered by buyers. She urged them to increase the price to at least M120.00 per bucket, saying this would help improve their income during the harvesting season.
Despite the tough conditions, the residents remain committed to this activity, hoping for better returns in the future.
