Waitrose Foundation Southern Africa

20th Anniversary Conference

Conference Theme:
Celebrating 20 Years of Improved Livelihoods: Deepening Engagement, Igniting Motivation

This year marks a significant milestone — 20 years of collective effort, shared learning, and meaningful impact across Southern Africa’s farming communities who are a part of Waitrose’s supply chain.

Founded in 2005 as a partnership between Waitrose & Partners (UK) and its fruit supply partners, the Waitrose Foundation Southern Africa (WFSA) has grown from benefitting just six citrus growers in South Africa to now over 560 growers inclusive of a variety of fruit categories and wine. The Foundation now also benefits Waitrose supply chain partners in Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.

Rooted in the principle of “trade, not aid,” the Foundation works to improve the livelihoods of farm workers, their families and their communities through worker voice-led social development projects and regional programmes.

This conference is a chance to celebrate the past, reflect on lessons learned, and ignite new energy for the future — together with those who have walked this path with us.