An agreement signed between the Citrus Growers’ Association’s Grower Development Company and the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) aims to transform the landscape for black citrus producers in the province. This 18-month pact, valued at R1.2 million, injects critical support to unlock their commercialisation potential and open doors to lucrative export markets.
The Eastern Cape boasts the second-largest citrus industry in South Africa, and black farmers represent a significant portion of this sector. However, compliance hurdles like Global GAP and SIZA certifications often act as barriers to entry for export.
This agreement directly addresses this challenge by providing financial and technical assistance to 10 black citrus producers, enabling them to meet these crucial standards.
Akho Skenjana, ECDC’s senior manager for manufacturing and agroprocessing, explained the agreement’s significance.
He said, “Equipping black citrus producers with Global GAP and SIZA compliance will unlock their export potential. These certifications guarantee safe production practices and ethical treatment of farmworkers, meeting the demands of international markets.”
Looking beyond exports
The agreement goes beyond immediate export support. Recognising the limitations faced by black farmers, it includes a feasibility study for establishing post-harvest facilities like a packhouse and a juicing plant.
This approach could create a game-changer for the industry, offering black farmers the opportunity to add value to their produce through juice production and generate additional income streams.
Lukhanyo Nkombisa, general manager of the CGA Grower Development Company, emphasised the agreement’s transformative potential.
He said, “This initiative aligns with our core mission of driving development and transformation within the citrus industry. The financial injection will be used for compliance and feasibility studies, ultimately empowering black citrus producers in the province.”
A long-term vision for sustainable growth
Nkombisa further expressed a desire for a long-lasting partnership. “While we’re initially targeting 10 black producers, our database identifies 32 who require this support,” he said.
“The agreement with the ECDC is central to developing black citrus farmers and preparing them for commercialization. We envision expanding this into a five-year partnership with a strong focus on specific development areas.”
This agreement marks a significant milestone for black citrus producers in the Eastern Cape. By facilitating export compliance, fostering infrastructure development, and paving the way for long-term growth, this initiative has the potential to empower these farmers and contribute substantially to the overall success of the citrus industry in the region.
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