A LEGACY OF BOLD
INQUIRY, SUSTAINABLE
SOLUTIONS
And Generous Giving
Dr. Merensky possessed a remarkable ability to think strategically and with foresight. His governance model was thoughtfully designed to adapt and evolve over time, ensuring that the Hans Merensky Legacy Foundation’s core objectives remain relevant and impactful in an ever-changing world.
Hans Merensky Legacy Foundation
Organizational Model
Following Dr. Hans Merensky’s model, Hans Merensky Legacy Foundation invested in two operating companies, namely Westfalia Fruit and Merensky Timber. Hans Merensky Legacy Foundation utilizes its income received through its shareholding to fund and support governance-related research projects and community projects.
Avocado Research Programme
University of PretoriaMAGIC Research Programme
University of the Free State
Forestry and Agriculture Programme
University of Stellenbosch
Where new insights are discovered, these outcomes are applied to
This approach is a truly remarkable and mutually beneficial relationship. Hans Merensky Legacy Foundation serves as a bridge – advancing knowledge through higher education and research, whilst ensuring that the research supports the commercial progress of the underlying businesses, having a long-term sustainable impact in the invested companies. Most of the research is also freely shared for broader use across academia and multiple other platforms.
Our approach is rooted in a three-step process:
Rigorous Research & Development:
We strategically invest in pioneering research initiatives, often in collaboration with leading universities and research institutions, to generate new knowledge and innovative solutions. This is where the seeds of progress are sown.
Strategic Correlation:
We actively work to connect the insights gained from our research with potential commercial applications, bridging the gap between discovery and real-world impact.
Responsible Commercial Roll-out:
We selectively invest in Westfalia Fruit and Merensky Timber that can effectively translate our research findings into sustainable initiatives, driving economic growth and societal benefit. While the Foundation’s primary focus lies in the crucial first step, we remain connected throughout the process, tracking progress and ensuring the initial vision is realized.
Guiding Principles & Our
Courageous Missions
Dr. Merensky’s philosophy was clear and resolute: to develop South Africa’s natural resources in a manner that is not only sustainable and scientific but also profoundly practical. The Foundation’s core objectives, meticulously outlined in the 1949 founding document, remain the unwavering compass guiding our work today:
Daring to Advance Research & Innovation: We fuel cutting-edge research in vital areas such as forestry, agriculture, soil conservation, and water management, encouraging bold new discoveries.
Empowering Through Education: We proudly award scholarships through sponsored research projects in forestry, agricultural sciences, geological research studies and related industries, forging strong partnerships with leading universities and institutions to nurture the next generation of experts.
Championing Sustainable Resource Development: We actively promote soil restoration, sustainable farming practices, and ecological preservation through rigorous scientific experimentation and impactful demonstration projects.
Community Development & Education: Creating a Ripple Effect of Lasting Impact
A Foundation Built on Giving and Driven by Scientific Progress
Dr. Hans Merensky’s legacy extends far beyond his pioneering work in geology and agriculture. He was a true visionary philanthropist who understood that the greatest wealth lies in the advancement of knowledge. Instead of accumulating personal riches, he boldly invested in the future, generously funding universities, libraries, schools and crucial agricultural research to propel progress throughout South Africa.
Hans Merensky Legacy Foundation funded the rebuild and refurbishment of the grade twelve girls’ hostel at Moroka High School in Thabanchu. The refurbished hotel was officially opened on 4 October 2024 and was occupied by students in time for the completion of their matric final exams at the end of 2024.
An interview with Hilda Ramagola
Recollections of Dr. Hans Merensky’s personal social impact and care for workers through the memoirs of her father.
Driving Environmental Responsibility and Sustainability
In line with the visionary principles of Dr. Hans Merensky, Westfalia Fruit and Merensky Timber actively champion environmental responsibility, sustainable growth and social responsibility initiatives. Hans Merensky Legacy Foundation supports these initiatives which creates a positive impact on the environment and various stakeholders.
