Fruit South Africa has announced leadership changes on its board of directors, effective 1 April 2025. Anton Rabe assumes the role of chairperson, succeeding Anton Kruger, who has held the position since April 2023. Derek Donkin will serve as vice-chairperson, while Kruger will continue as a board director.
The organization also announced the retirement of board members Justin Chadwick and Vangile Titi-Msumza. Chadwick, a founding director of Fruit South Africa, retired from his role as CEO of the Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa, a position he held for 25 years. Titi-Msumza, who joined the board in 2017, is recognized for her long-standing service.
Fruit South Africa has welcomed three new directors: Boitshoko Ntshabele, the new CEO of the CGA, Jacqueline Maisela, and Jenetha Mahlangu. Their experience in government and industry-related roles is expected to contribute to the organization's mission. Maisela and Mahlangu join Dr. Nompumelelo Obokoh as independent board directors, increasing the number of independent directors to three.
Rabe noted that this transition represents a major shift in leadership for Fruit South Africa. "This change presents a unique opportunity to build upon the organization's successes and to drive Fruit SA forward as a unified voice for the South African fruit industry."
These changes occur amid a challenging geopolitical climate, with global exports impacted by recent U.S. tariffs, now paused for 90 days. The board remains focused on fostering a competitive and sustainable fruit industry.
Source: FoodForMzansi