Mayor urges farmers to network
AGRICULTURE remains an essential part of food security.
That is why small-scale farmers were honoured and exposed to networking opportunities at the Farmers’ Day event hosted by Joburg Fresh Produce Market last week.
The event furthermore exposed farmers to different role players, regulations and the requirements for accessing national fresh produce markets such as Joburg Market.
Small-scale farmers and dignitaries attended the event at the Joburg Market located in City Deep.
Joburg mayor Mpho Moerane said the Joburg Market is one of South Africa’s oldest and biggest markets of fresh produce.
Other dignitaries who attended the event was the Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister Thoko Didiza, the Gauteng Economic Development, Agriculture, Environment and Rural Development MEC Parks Tau and the city’s Economic Development MMC Tom Mofokeng.
Moerane said Farmers’ Day is an extremely significant day in the calendar of the city and the fresh produce entity as it is designed to boost opportunities for small-scale farmers.
“This is through breaking down barriers of market access, financing, professional capacity, Agri business skills, potential partners and opportunities,” he said.
“Before the Covid-19 pandemic hit
us, the Joburg Market saw an estimate of 10 000 people going through its gates and recorded an annual turnover of more than R8.6 billion.
“I hope this gives an idea of the potential role Joburg Market can play in not only Johannesburg local economy but also Gauteng province and the country.
“The Joburg Market through the Farmers’ Day presents an opportunity for various spheres of government, farmers and other business stakeholders to partner in rebuilding our economy,” he said.
According to Tau, the two largest fresh produce markets in South Africa are in Gauteng and jointly handle 65% of the fresh produce sold through the 17 fresh produce markets dispersed in the country.
“I am sure you will agree with me that Gauteng should be regarded as the fresh produce trading hub of the country,” he said.
Didiza thanked the city for ensuring the Joburg Market remains functional and relevant and that the market contributes to the economy of the City of Johannesburg, Gauteng, and the country.
Sophy Musabeni, a small-scale farmer, said networking events like the Farmers’ Day are beneficial for small-scale and emerging farmers.
Musabeni, who has been farming for three years, received a certificate at the event for a proud representation of her produce.
She says she has grown and managed to plant one hectare of spinach and half a hectare of baby marrows. She farms in Boksburg and Limpopo and does mainly with vegetables, which she supplies to Joburg Market.
Musabeni encouraged other women in farming not to give up.
“It’s not easy, but you should not give up. Farming involves a lot of work, but you must keep on moving,” she said. |