Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-02-29 12:13:19
At a South African farm in the southern town of Oudtshoorn, hundreds of ostriches can be seen stretching their slender necks and shaking their black feathers under the setting sun. The birds raise clouds of ochre dust in their enclosures, which are scattered across the rugged landscape. A welcoming inscription at the farm reads, “May the feathers be with you,” highlighting the significance of ostrich farming in this region, known as the ostrich capital of the world.
Oudtshoorn, situated in the little Karoo valley with a semi-arid climate, is the ideal location for farming these big birds. Approximately 70% of ostrich products worldwide originate from South Africa, with Oudtshoorn being a major hub for such products. Since the town’s early days, fashion has been the main market for local farmers, with ostrich feathers used to decorate luxury hats and eccentric dresses. Peter Liebenberg, who heads the feather division of Cape Karoo International, compares the exposure of their products to the extravagant outfits seen at the Met Gala in New York.
Local producers emphasize the versatility of ostriches, utilizing all parts of the bird to create a wide range of products. From ostrich steak served at restaurants to ostrich leather bags, lamps, and ornaments crafted from the birds’ giant eggs, the town showcases the diverse applications of ostriches. Feather dusters have also played a crucial role in sustaining the industry, especially during periods like the coronavirus pandemic when demand for extravagant clothing decreased.
In the early 1900s, ostrich feathers were a prized designer item and a major export for South Africa. However, the market crashed due to disruptions in maritime trade and changes in transportation preferences. Despite these challenges, the demand for ostrich products has always managed to rebound, highlighting the resilience of the industry.
Today, Oudtshoorn is home to processing facilities where workers sort, cut, wash, and dye plumes in hundreds of colors. Seamstresses sew feather boas amidst images of renowned fashion designers, producing a variety of feather-based products. With Jonker’s hatchery housing thousands of ostriches, including newborns, the industry continues to thrive. Jonker’s firm is one of the largest in the world, breeding, processing, and marketing ostrich products to a global clientele.
The black and white plumes of the ostrich wings, considered the most prized, are sold to haute couture houses worldwide, catering to clients ranging from Moulin Rouge performers in Paris to carnival revellers in Rio de Janeiro. With nearly 45,000 birds slaughtered every season, the ostrich industry in Oudtshoorn remains a vital part of the town’s economy, showcasing the beauty and versatility of these magnificent birds.
Read the original article on Uganda Monitor
