South Africa has introduced Shesha, an energy drink made from the juice extracted from fresh, raw sugarcane — a global first.
According to the SA Canegrowers, Shesha is made from hand-harvested, high-quality sugarcane stalks that are peeled and crushed to form the base of this naturally sweetened, fortified energy drink. No other energy drink in the world is produced this way. Produced and canned in KwaZulu-Natal, this innovative and proudly home-grown product supports job creation and economic growth in rural communities.
“This is more than just an energy drink; it’s a story of South African ingenuity and resilience. Every can of Shesha supports local jobs, sustains families, and strengthens rural economies in KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga,” said Kiki Mzoneli, a sugarcane grower from KwaZulu-Natal and board member of SA Canegrowers.
Shesha arrives at a time when consumers are increasingly seeking healthier and smarter energy solutions. It combines sustainability with taste, offering a drink that fuels performance while aligning with conscious consumption. Compared to regular energy drinks, Shesha contains 50% less caffeine and is rich in antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins.
“Shesha is about doing something new and exciting with a crop we’ve known for generations. It’s proof that innovation can start right here at home — turning sugarcane into something fresh, relevant, and proudly South African,” said Higgins Mdluli, sugarcane grower from Mpumalanga and chairman of SA Canegrowers.
The drink is produced by Womoba, a subsidiary of the not-for-profit SA Canegrowers. Profits from Shesha will support projects in KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga, fostering job creation and economic opportunities for local communities. As the sole shareholder, SA Canegrowers — representing 24,000 small-scale and 1,200 large-scale sugarcane growers, is leveraging the launch to diversify the industry beyond traditional sugar production and create sustainable new revenue streams.
Shesha is available in four flavours: Original, Lemon & Lime, Orange, and Ginger Beer. It can be purchased nationally via Takealot and Makro’s online store, and is also available at select retailers in KwaZulu-Natal.
