Swellendam Municipality

Geography, History & Economy

Swellendam Local Municipality is part of Overberg District Municipality.

MDB code: WC034

Description: The Swellendam Local Municipality is located in the Overberg district in the Western Cape Province. It is the biggest of the four municipalities that make up the district, accounting for a third of its geographical area.
The municipality is involved in agriculture and agro-processing of products, which include deciduous fruits, wheat, barley, youngberry, livestock, and grapes for exporting and making wine.
There is a big emphasis on ecotourism and cultural heritage tourist activities. A potential sector for higher economic growth in the area is wholesale and packaging. The most significant conservation areas are: Bontebok National Park, Marloth Nature Reserve in the Langeberg, and Sanbona Wildlife Reserve.

Area: 3 835km²

Cities/Towns: Barrydale, Buffeljagsrivier, Infanta, Malagas, Suurbraak, Swellendam

Main Economic Sectors: Wholesale and retail trade, catering and accommodation (25.4%), manufacturing (17.1%), transport, storage and communication (14.4%), agriculture, forestry and fishing (11.3%), finance, insurance, real estate and business services (11%), general government (8.1%), construction (5.3%), community, social and personal services (4.6%)