As one of Eastern Cape’s brightest shining stars in agriculture, farmer Inga Qeja understands the importance of access to mentorship and industry knowledge when starting as a farmer in Mzansi. Especially if you intend to graduate from small-scale farming to commercial production. For this very reason, Qeja is hosting the first annual Farmer’s Day Trade Fair to bring together key players in the farming sector.
Hosted under the theme: “Valuing the essential role of woman and youth in agriculture, and creating permanent employment”, the trade fair is set to take place on Friday, 5 August at the Tsolo Junction Hall in Tsolo, O.R.Tambo District.
All farmers and those interested in joining the vibrant sector are invited to attend the whole-day event, which starts at 09:00 in the morning and ends at 17:30.
Organiser and owner of Bhayi Holdings, Qeja, says the event, backed by the Eastern Cape department of agriculture and rural development and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA), promises to be an information sharing and networking session of note.
A chance to network and gain knowledge
“We all know that in farming, knowledge is an important key to success. Those who attend will walk away being exposed to all facets of the agricultural sector, and network with key players in the farming sector.”
Among others, attendees can expect to engage with seasoned farmers, finance and funding organisations, tractor companies, pesticide and input suppliers, and even accounting firms.
According to Qeja, the idea was sparked after realising how privileged he was to have access to award-winning food producers who freely share information with him.
All about access to information
“I am always surrounded by people who are willing to share valuable information with me about agriculture. And sometimes, I just wish that other people, who don’t have the network that I have, can also enjoy access to this information. That is how this idea started,” he says.
The farmer’s trade fair is open and free for anyone who wishes to attend. Agricultural businesses and organisations interested in exhibiting their products or service at the fair, are welcome to do so at a charge of R1 500 per stand.
For details on how to attend or exhibit at the event, email inganande@gmail.com or call 078 777 0101
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