Drakenstein Municipality as a whole has a population of slightly more than 200 000 with an annual increase of 4 200. Paarl and Wellington are the most densely populated areas. Paarl has slightly more than 130 000 inhabitants, Wellington follows with nearly 62 000, while the three small towns of Hermon, Gouda and Saron, situated along the R44 road to the north of Wellington,have an approximate population of some 8 500 to 10 000. The labour force of the Municipality is estimated at more than 80 000 with an annual increase of 1500.
The Drakenstein Municipality primarily comprises 4 ethnic groups, i.e. Coloureds, Africans, Indians
and Whites. According to the latest National Census statistics, 64% of the population is Coloured,
21% African and 15% White. In 1996, 67% was Coloured, 17% was White and 16% was African.
Africans now represent the second largest population group in the Municipal Area. Since 1996, the Coloured population (as a percentage of the total population) decreased by 7%, Whites decreased by 2% and Africans increased by 5%.
| African |
28 254 |
16% |
41 510 |
21% |
| Coloured |
115 105 |
67% |
123 964 |
64.70% |
| Indian |
428 |
0.20% |
591 |
0.30% |
| White |
29 933 |
16.80% |
20 354 |
14% |
Unemployment and poverty affects a large number of people within the Municipal Area. An estimated 23% of residents are unemployed. The monthly wages for unskilled employees is estimated at between R1 400 to R4 200.
From the late 17th century farming was the biggest source of livelihood in the area. Throughout
the years the wine and grape culture could be seen as the backbone of the agriculture, although
agro-processing, services and farming input became increasingly important. The towns of the Drakenstein are located in one of the most productive agricultural belts in the Western Cape, if not
in the country. It is also the heart of South Africa’s popular Winelands. More than 80% of all vines
in the entire country are produced in Wellington and sold nationwide. However, these activities
must not be viewed in isolation from the rest of the economic sector. The manufacturing sector
also boasts established industries in the clothing, textile and footwear industries complimented
by steady growth in the technology sector. Therefore, the broad-based economic structure is
one of the regions strongest growth factors.
These towns offer a diverse range of opportunities in industries linked to agriculture, as well as
other industries.