NEWS
From page 6
hemisphere. This multi-billion
rand industry contributes
significantly to the economy,
with thousands of full time
workers employed in the
area. The majority of these
are horse grooms, who
usually live on site with their
families. In fact, on many
equestrian properties, the
live-in workers and their
families substantially outnumber the residents.
“These workers have minimal
education but have learned
very specific and important
skills which allow them to
find work easily in the local
equestrian community. They
earn a good living, usually
including salary, accommodation, groceries, as well as tips
from horse owners and clients
at livery yards which can add
substantially to their income.
Every worker supports an
average of five dependants,
so their earnings are playing a
crucial role.
“In addition, there are
hundreds of small companies
in the area that service the
equestrian industry, and who
employ additional permanent
staff. These include feed
merchants, farriers, vets,
equestrian clubs, horse
transporters, trainers,
saddlers, tack shops, arena
and stable construction firms
and equestrian centres such
as the Shumbashaba
Community Trust which offers
after-school programmes for
Diepsloot youth. All of these
Continued on page 10
Map of Glenferness and Kyalami showing the proposed K56 road
8
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