The hidden economy surrounding the medicinal plant trade in South Africa is estimated to be worth approximately $60 to $100 billion per annum. There is increasing focus on the role that these resources play in the process of sustainable development. By combining Local Economic Development (LED), incentive structures and resource management systems strategies in the Eastern Cape, biodiversity degradation can be potentially decreased in line with community development goals. Qualitative data comparisons are used to assess the extent of the success of this holistic approach to development using the Umthathi Africulture Project as a case study.