MEC Ivan Meyer welcomes launch of Flame and Game project in Western Cape
Western Cape welcomes launch of Flame and Game project to strengthen culinary tourism in the Western Cape
Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, yesterday welcomed the official launch of the Flame and Game Project, a new culinary tourism venture developed in partnership with renowned South African chef Reuben Riffel, supported through the Western Cape Government's Tourism Growth Fund.
The launch, held at Reuben Riffel's restaurant in Franschhoek, showcased how strategic public-private partnerships can drive investment, create jobs, support local suppliers, and enhance the Western Cape's position as a leading global tourism destination.
The Tourism Growth Fund contributed R1.5 million towards the project, funding critical infrastructure and equipment, including aluminium works, electrical upgrades, ventilation systems, a charcoal oven, refrigeration facilities, furniture, smallwares, and solar installations. The beneficiary provided additional co-funding of R686 168, demonstrating strong private sector confidence in the initiative.
The Flame and Game concept offers visitors an authentic South African culinary experience centred on game meat and traditional fire cooking. Situated in Franschhoek, a town internationally known for its food and wine offering, the project introduces a uniquely African dining experience that complements the area's established tourism appeal.
Minister Meyer said"The Western Cape Government is committed to growing tourism as a driver of economic growth and job creation. The Flame and Game Project demonstrates how targeted investment can unlock innovative tourism experiences that celebrate our unique heritage, support local businesses, and attract more visitors to our province.
Through the Tourism Growth Fund, we are supporting entrepreneurs and tourism businesses that enhance destination competitiveness, stimulate private investment, and create employment opportunities. This partnership with Chef Reuben Riffel is a prime example of how government and the private sector can work together to grow the visitor economy and deliver tangible benefits to local communities."
The project is expected to create 10 new jobs, including positions for chefs and hospitality staff, while sustaining the existing workforce of 35 employees. Furthermore, the business will source products from local game farmers, produce growers, wine farms, and other suppliers, creating broader economic opportunities across the value chain.
Visitor numbers are projected to increase from approximately 20 000 visitors annually to 40 000 visitors per year following the launch of the enhanced experience. This growth will leverage both the popularity of Franschhoek, which attracts more than 300 000 tourists annually, and the reputation of Chef Reuben Riffel as one of South Africa's most celebrated culinary ambassadors.
Minister Meyer added:
"Tourism is one of the Western Cape's most important economic sectors, and we are focused on supporting initiatives that create memorable experiences for visitors while expanding opportunities for local communities. Flame and Game not only showcases South Africa's rich culinary traditions but also strengthens the Western Cape's reputation as Africa's leading food and wine destination."
The Flame and Game Project aligns with the objectives of the Tourism Growth Fund, which seeks to unlock private investment, improve tourism product competitiveness, support emerging tourism entrepreneurs, and contribute towards growing visitor numbers to the Western Cape.
Media enquiries:
Daniel Johnson
Media Liaison Officer to Provincial Minister Ivan Meyer
Cell: 079 990 4231
Email: Daniel.Johnson@westerncape.gov.za
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