From humble beginnings in a rural farming environment to becoming a leading figure in the horticulture and landscaping industry, Mr Marcus Govender’s journey is a testament to passion, dedication and strategic vision. As a Durban University of Technology (DUT) alumnus, he has made significant contributions to the green industry both locally and internationally.

Mr Govender’s decision to study at the DUT (formerly Technikon Natal), was driven by a desire to merge his agricultural roots with a technical and dynamic field. Horticulture provided the perfect blend of nature and innovation, offering him an exciting career path. The institution’s emphasis on practical learning, high-calibre lecturers and enriching field trips laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors.

Since graduating in 2001, Mr Govender has carved a remarkable career path. He began his working life at Idube Landscaping, progressing from site manager to regional manager, overseeing projects across South Africa. In 2007, he joined Bidvest Topturf Mauritius as a Projects Manager, leading landscaping and irrigation developments on the prestigious Anahita IRS Development in Mauritius. His expertise led him back to South Africa in 2008, where he managed Bidvest Topturf’s KZN operations before being promoted to Operations Director, overseeing projects in South Africa, Lesotho, Botswana and Zambia.

In 2012, Mr Govender returned to Mauritius as the Managing Director of Bidvest Topturf Mauritius, leading operations and reporting to the Bidvest board in South Africa. A year later, he and his wife Mrs Constance Govender, took a bold step in launching their own business, CONMAR Horticulture. Their company has since become an award-winning, holistic green industry service provider, specialising in horticulture, landscaping, sports turf, irrigation systems and civil engineering. They also own a commercial macadamia plantation, MARCUS MACS, producing premium nuts for the local confectionery market.

Through CONMAR Horticulture, Marcus has created meaningful employment for nearly 100 permanent and contract staff across KZN, Gauteng and the Eastern Cape. With South Africa facing a high unemployment rate, his company’s contribution extends beyond business, it provides stability and sustains livelihoods. His commitment to sustainable horticulture education empowers employees and clients with valuable skills that can be applied in both commercial and home environments.

Mr Govender is also deeply invested in nurturing future talent. He continues to employ DUT sustainable horticulture graduates and facilitates Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programmes for DUT students, offering them valuable industry exposure.

His dedication to excellence has earned CONMAR Horticulture several national green industry awards:

• Best Indoor Plantscaping Project in South Africa (2020) – Town Lodge Umhlanga
• Best Landscape Construction Project in South Africa (2022) – KwaDukuza Peoples Park
• Best Landscape & Turf Maintenance Project in South Africa (2024) – King Zwelithini Stadium Pitch

His leadership extends beyond business; he has served as the Chairman of the South African Landscapers Institution (KZN) since 2018 and currently chairs the DUT Horticulture Advisory Board (2023-2025).

Looking ahead, Mr Govender aims to expand CONMAR Horticulture’s footprint across all nine provinces by 2030, with the goal of employing at least 500 permanent staff. His commitment to community development is unwavering, as he continues to sponsor schools and community sporting events, investing in the next generation of sports leaders.

With his deep-rooted passion for the industry, a commitment to sustainability, and an unwavering dedication to fostering future talent, Mr Govender is truly a trailblazer in South Africa’s green industry. His journey serves as an inspiration to young professionals and entrepreneurs aspiring to make a difference in their fields.