SAOSO

The South African Organic Sector Organisation (SAOSO) is dedicated to transforming South Africa's food system by promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Through initiatives in policy development, organic certification, farmer training, and consumer education, SAOSO aims to foster a healthier and more sustainable local food system.

A key component of SAOSO's efforts is the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS), which offers local organic certification for farmers and consumers. This grassroots movement encourages organic culture, ensuring that sustainable farming practices are accessible and verifiable at the community level.

Complementing SAOSO's mission, the Good Food Network (GFN) is set to become South Africa's central wholesale marketplace for regenerative farmed, organic, local, and ethically produced food. By connecting wholesale buyers with nearby producers and suppliers, GFN supports local economies, promotes soil health, and facilitates the trade of environmentally friendly, toxin-free, and biodiversity building food options.

GFN's platform features a geolocation-enabled search function, designed to encourage support for hyper-local businesses, services, and products. This tool helps consumers find and engage with small businesses in their vicinity, fostering a more connected and sustainable food ecosystem.

Additionally, GFN is working on offering advanced transparency and traceability features which will ensure buyers know exactly how their produce has been farmed, where, and by whom.  

Together, SAOSO and the Good Food Network are instrumental in advancing organic agriculture and ethical food consumption in South Africa, striving for a future where sustainable farming flourishes, and healthy, locally produced food is accessible to all.