South Africa's Karoo region dominates mohair production amid ecological and economic challenges
Original framing: “Global mohair supply flourishes in South Africa's desert” — Africa News
The mohair industry in the Karoo has roots in colonial land dispossession and the establishment of large-scale farming. Historical patterns of resource extraction and marginalization continue to shape the region's economic and environmental landscape today.
The mohair industry in the Karoo reflects a complex interplay of historical dispossession, ecological vulnerability, and global market demands.
While the region's dominance in mohair production is often celebrated, it is sustained by unsustainable land use and the marginalization of Indigenous and local communities. Integrating traditional ecological knowledge, promoting sustainable alternatives, and strengthening local governance can help align economic development with environmental and social justice. By learning from cross-cultural practices and scientific insights, the region can transition toward a more resilient and equitable model of production. This requires a systemic shift that prioritizes long-term ecological health and community well-being over short-term profit.