After a period exceeding ten years and an investment surpassing one billion Rand, the Mpumalanga Fresh Produce Market has been officially transferred to the provincial government's control. This development marks the commencement of operations, aiming to facilitate market access for local farmers to domestic, regional, and international markets, with a particular emphasis on Mozambique and Swaziland.
Silence Mhlaba, the acting spokesperson for the department of economic development and tourism, informed Food For Mzansi about the handover of the facility to their department along with the department of agriculture, rural development, land, and environmental affairs. Mhlaba detailed the ongoing efforts to operationalize the market, highlighting the appointment of an operator by the agriculture department. He further elaborated on the roles of both departments in supporting farmers to enhance production for the market, with an additional allocation of R700 000 aimed at addressing construction retention and operational setup activities.
The market is positioned to support both commercial and small-scale farmers, promoting the trade of produce from small, medium, and micro enterprises. Vicky Mhlanga, a local poultry farmer, expressed optimism about the market's potential to benefit farmers across Mpumalanga, enhancing their competitive stance in neighboring countries. Jabu Mahlangu, president of the National African Farmers Union Mpumalanga, echoed this sentiment, welcoming the market's nearing completion and its expected role in uniting farmers to sell their produce, thereby contributing to food security and addressing social challenges in the region.
Source: Food for Mzansi