About 120 young farmers had a stimulating, interactive and informative market access day on Wednesday, June 28 2023, at the Joburg Market in City Deep, Johannesburg. Hosted by Joburg Fresh Produce Market in collaboration with the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the workshop wrapped up Youth Month successfully with market agents and successful farmers under one roof. The main objective was to empower young farmers in and around Johannesburg to lead transformative change in the agricultural sector and be exposed to opportunities in agriculture and fresh produce industry.

The market access day also set as platform for young farmers to discuss and share ideas, experiences, and challenges related to agriculture with the key stakeholders.

Gjalt Hooghiemstra, the President of the Institute of Market Agents South Africa, Thomas Mawasha, the Director of Council for Black Market Agents and Charles Park, a manager at the Joburg Market, shared their knowledge of the sector, and the history of the Joburg Market and the opportunities available.

Hooghiemstra urged the young farmers to maintain good relations with salesperson of their choice in selling their products. He added that those who want to be part of food security and sustainability need to understand the importance of fresh produce markets in the country and value chain of the market.

“The Joburg Market serves about 5 000 farmers from across South Africa who send their fresh produce to be traded to a large buyer base, averaging about 10 000 daily. Our mandate goes beyond providing world-class trading facilities but also promotes a healthy lifestyle,” said Park. 

The young farmer were taken to different market stalls as part of the tour to expose them to daily operations within the market from how the products are received, packaged and then sold to the buyers.  

Matilda Gasela, the head of department at Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, said market access day cements efforts to support young farmers by providing sufficient access market and multiple opportunities that farmers can explore in the sector.

“Young farmers have abound opportunities in the agricultural spectrum. It is up to an individual to seek and take advantage of opportunities available to become big commercial farmers,” said Gasela.

Kobela Mokgohloa, a promising young farmer and owner of Korema Farm, encouraged the youth to have consistency and discipline. He said that these elements play a vital role in ensuring growth in business and supplying the Fresh Produce Market helps building your brand as well providing you with a platform to compete those who have been farming for years.

Thando Zwane, the director of Sthaweni Farming, said he appreciated having to be in the same roof with farmers and market agents. He expressed delight to see more agropreneur coming onto the agricultural sector and growing together.

He added that speakers have shared productive and valuable information which will foster growth in his business.

Written by Getrude Mamabolo

29/06/2023