Agricultural markets are usually dominated by larger commercial producers, while smallholder farmers struggle with barriers to entry into markets. The North West department of agriculture is, however, on a mission to give small-scale farmers a fair chance in the market.
The department of agriculture in the province is currently hosting its historic first Provincial Agriculture Market Access Summit (Pamas) under the theme; “Linking North West Smallholder Farmers to Market”.
The three-day summit hosted in collaboration with Sun City Resorts aims to address market access challenges.
Speaking at the summit, MEC for agriculture Desbo Mohono said her department wanted to create a linkage for smallholder farmers to markets and showcase their products to open market opportunities.
“This conference is the [stadium] for our farmers to be able to network, position, listen, market and really grow their business acumen,” she said.
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How the North West shapes up
North West contributes a very large sum to South Africa’s total production of key commodities. The province produces 16.75% of the country’s maize output, 41.97% of groundnuts, and 33.82% of sunflower, while dry beans are 15.75% and grain sorghum equals a contribution of 25.28%.
Mohono said the province should be proud that its Klerksdorp agricultural fresh produce market is “ranked up there with the best in countrywide”.
She pointed to middlemen being a headache for many producers in the province.
“Our farmers are always complaining about the middleman. There is a feeling that the very same middlemen benefit more while farmers sell their crops. Good access to markets and market information may help farmers bypass the middleman,” Mohono said.
Mining companies get behind farmers
Day two of the summit offered farmers an opportunity to present their agricultural products, and presentations were also made by Sun City, Bakubung, Kwamaritana, Black Rhino and a few farmers.
Mining companies were also present and shared their plans to assist farmers with investments, aimed at helping farmers access better markets. Mining companies present included Pilansburg Platinum Mine, Wesizwe Mine, Anglo Amanda Belt Mine, Nothem Platinum Mine, Siyanda Bakgatlha Mine, and Anthens Platinum Mine.
Cattle farmer, Olerile Lekgetho told Food For Mzansi that he is excited by the possibility of producing for new markets.
“This gives us hope that now we will have off-take agreements for our produce now. Only time will tell if this was not just a talk show.”
North West cattle farmer, Olerile Lekgetho
“But from what I have seen and heard, so far, I am hopeful and looking forward to this opportunity. Finally, small-scale farmers will also have an opportunity.”
The summit ends on Wednesday, 1 March and will close off with report-back sessions on the red and white meat industry, horticulture, and processed grains.
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