Zimmermann, H.G.de Wit, MarynaFouché, Hermande Waal, HO2018-01-292018-01-29Mounir Louhaichi, H. G. Zimmermann, Maryna de Wit, Herman Fouché, HO de Waal. (21/10/2013). Cactusnet: Promoting the social and ecological benefits of cactus production: Cactus Pear in South Africa: History, challenges and potential. Beirut, Lebanon: International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA).https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11766/7730Given the fear of potential invasions by cacti, there is resistance among government officials and farmers to promote the use of spineless Cactus Pear varieties in South Africa. This presents a missed opportunity to utilize a high yielding, sustainable, water-efficient crop as a source of fodder for livestock. Recent developments also suggest this plant could be harvested and processed for human consumption, providing an extra source of income for rural communities.PDFCC-BY-NC-4.0shrub speciesBriefOpen access