A new chapter in the citrus industry is about to begin as the new sheriff in town is set to take charge of the Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA).
The board of the CGA has appointed Dr Boitshoko Ntshabele as the new chief executive officer. The new head will be leading the association that champions the vital role the citrus industry plays in South African agriculture and the economy.
According to a statement by the CGA, Ntshabele has extensive experience spanning the areas of academia, the private sector, and the public sector.
“For the past five years, he has been the director [of] biosecurity at the department of agriculture, land reform and rural development (DALRRD). Originally trained as a veterinarian, Dr Ntshabele has also held leadership positions at Onderstepoort Biological Products.
“He was the minister counsellor agriculture in the South African embassy to Belgium, Luxemburg and the mission to the European Union from 2015 to 2019,” the statement read.
A crucial time for the citrus industry
The CGA said his successful track record in management, policy development, international engagement and negotiation positions him as a knowledgeable advocate for the interests of local citrus growers.
Ntshabele said he was looking forward to contributing to shaping the future of the local citrus industry and growing it further.
Related stories
- Citrus farmers profit from juice market amid export challenges
- Citrus industry confirms no new greening disease threat in SA
- Farmers in fight for land over Motsepe Foundation citrus project
“This is a crucial time for the sector. We must make sure that the projected growth in citrus production is translated into increased economic opportunities. A key to achieving that is expanding market access for our growers.
“Continued focus on sustainability is a priority as well. I have always believed true sustainability is of little meaning if it does not embrace inclusive growth. In this area, it is important for the citrus industry to continue building on the exceptional work it has done. If all obstacles are removed, Southern African citrus can create even more significant economic opportunities for all,” Ntshabele said.
Gerrit van der Merwe, the chairperson of the CGA, said they were enthusiastic to start this new chapter in the CGA’s history with Ntshabele and he has their full confidence and support.
Justin Chadwick, the outgoing chief executive officer, welcomed the appointment and wished the new head the best in leading the industry.
“I have known Dr Ntshabele for many years, and I am thrilled that he has accepted the post of CEO of the CGA. His ability to calmly assess and reason, as well as his diplomacy, will be a huge asset to the CGA as the industry strives to continue on its growth path during more and more uncertain times,” Chadwick said.
Chadwick, who is retiring at the end of March, said he has been incredibly fortunate to have been allowed to be CEO for the past 25 years.
“I have no doubt that Dr Ntshabele will take the CGA from strength to strength,” Chadwick said.
READ NEXT: Nyhontso slams king Misuzulu’s Ingonyama Trust suspensions
Sign up for Mzansi Today: Your daily take on the news and happenings from the agriculture value chain
