Hortgro Awards Honour Industry Leaders as Anton Rabe Steps Down After 38 Years
Hortgro honoured researchers, transformation leaders and sustainability pioneers at its 2026 Awards in Somerset West, and marked the retirement of long-serving Executive Director Anton Rabe after 38 years.
Rabe's departure marks end of an era
The 2026 Hortgro Awards, held on 11 September at the Lord Charles in Somerset West, brought together leaders from South Africa's pome and stone fruit industry to recognise contributions across research, transformation, sustainability and trade. The evening also paid tribute to Anton Rabe, Hortgro's Executive Director, who is stepping down after 38 years leading the industry.
Rabe was presented with the OSH Reinecke Frontrunner Award, honouring his years of service connecting growers, researchers, exporters and government through shifting markets, climate pressures and regulatory change.
Hortgro represents deciduous fruit producers across South Africa, supporting the pome and stone fruit industries through research, transformation, market access and sustainability initiatives.
For more information, watch the interview below from the Lucentlands Podcast with Anton Rabe and the new Hortgro CEO Jacques du Preez: