The City of Johannesburg’s department of Social Development, in partnership with the Wakanda Food Accelerator and FoodBev Manufacturing SETA, hosted a graduation ceremony for agro-processors who completed a year-long national certificate in food and beverage packaging operations.
The programme, designed to equip small-scale agro-processors with essential skills, covered key areas such as professional communication, budgeting, food safety regulations in South Africa, the business of food packaging, and personal development coaching. Graduates are now better positioned to comply with city by-laws and national food safety regulations while improving their product packaging and navigating the food industry landscape.
One of the programme’s success stories includes Ting Tang Tea, which secured an opportunity to showcase its products in Singapore, and Conza’s Biscuits, now being sold at a fuel station franchise.
FoodBev Manufacturing SETA CEO Nokuthula Selamolela encouraged graduates to apply for further funding to grow their businesses. “Tomorrow, these graduates will be the employers of choice. This graduation marks the start of a new journey. Use the knowledge you’ve gained to build successful businesses, leverage the networks you’ve established, and never stop knocking on doors to create your own market.”
The programme achieved a 90% retention rate, with 97 out of 100 registered students graduating.
Rhandzu Chauke, owner of Conza’s Biscuits, praised the course as a “game-changer”, adding, “I’ve gained so much knowledge, which has helped me upscale my business and improve my product packaging.”
The certificate in food and beverage packaging operations is part of a broader strategy by the City’s Social Development department to reduce food insecurity and create sustainable jobs for small-scale agro-processors. By fostering an enabling environment for fresh, nutritious, and high-value agro-processed products—such as diced vegetables, juices, and animal products—the initiative aims to empower local producers to supply their communities, shopkeepers, hotels, spaza shops, and hawkers, gradually disrupting monopoly markets in the value chain.
This initiative not only supports economic growth but also ensures that fresh, locally produced food reaches more Johannesburg residents, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable City.
Written by Ayanda Radebe
06/03/2025