Developing nature‑based economies grounded in regenerative ecological design
We design and champion plans, policies and projects that unlock the natural and social capital in South Africa’s landscapes. From watershed regeneration to cannabis law reform, we work to put high-value crops and rural industry in the hands of the poor - to grow the future economy.
Unlocking an inclusive cannabis industry for economic reconstruction and development
Ecological design and planning for resilient landscapes
AFRISTAR FOUNDATION
An optimistic, action-oriented South African public benefit organisation. We develop projects and strategies that put regenerative systems and a nature-based economy to work.
Founded in 2003. Watershed regeneration planning, bioregional planning, economic regeneration, ecological design, permaculture and skills development, cannabis policy and law reform, and education.
We organise our work around four areas
Bioregional Regeneration
A model for regenerating the watershed, securing the water and building local economies from what the land already holds.
Cannabis
Law reform, sector strategy and rural industrialisation, from Parliament to the Eastern Cape.
Services
Ecological design, planning and policy advice.
Learn and Resources
Posters in classrooms and documentaries.
Great abundance, natural wealth.Bill Mollison, inscribed in Afristar's copy of his Permaculture: A Designer's Manual
Experience
Afristar has vast experience implementing rural and urban community development programmes, as well as in the design and delivery of trainings. Past projects have included permaculture design, permaculture land applications, development of demonstration sites, community gardens, medicinal gardens and greening programmes.
We also shape policy and advocate for reform, from cannabis law in Parliament to sector strategy for government.
Who we are
Afristar is led by its Chief Natural Capital Officer, Nicholas Heinamann, and overseen by an independent Board of Directors. For each project we assemble a specific team around its objectives, drawing on global permaculture and cannabis expertise and on participatory tools that empower communities and build local ownership, grounded in on-time delivery and budget.
Start here
- GovernmentOur submissions, our cannabis policy work and the bioregional model.
- Funders and CSRThe bioregional model, our track record, and a direct line to us.
- NGOs and NPOsOur community programmes and our education resources.
- ResearchersOur published submissions and writing.
- IndividualsPosters and films, and ways to support the work.
Let's build a resilient society together
At Afristar, we understand the complexities of the African environment and specialise in restoration and resiliency solutions for each unique situation. We have developed cutting-edge and environmentally-focused strategies to help mitigate the effects of poor land use practice.
Help and donate Get in touch