South Africa’s citrus industry has come a long way since the first time citrus groves were planted on South African soil. Over the years, the industry has grown in leaps and bounds. Today, it is the biggest agricultural exporter.
This has allowed the citrus industry to put major financial support behind transformation and black grower development.
Lukhanyo Nkombisa, general manager of the Citrus Growers Association’s (CGA) Grower Development Company, tells Food For Mzansi that while the industry is serious about inclusivity and development, a number of challenges exist.
Duncan Masiwa: Mzansi’s citrus industry has come a long way. How has agri development evolved within the industry?
Lukhanyo Nkombisa: The South African citrus industry has evolved a lot since there are a lot of initiatives related to the growth of black growers.
In 2010, the CGA established the chamber which is the voice of black growers for inclusive participation in all CGA structures and initiatives. In 2016, the CGA established the CGA Grower Development Company (CGA-GDC) for one purpose, to drive transformation and development in the citrus industry.
Since the establishment of the CGA-GDC, the CGA is spending about R50 million per annum to support black growers, with extension service support, business and compliance support mentorship, skills development, and market readiness.
These initiatives show how the citrus industry is serious about inclusivity and transformation and development.
What is the industry’s approach to transformation?
There are a number of initiatives focusing on black grower support. The fact that there is a company that is funded by the industry to strictly [ensure] black grower support with staff on the field to support growers, shows that transformation in the citrus industry is the priority.
What makes citrus transformation challenging?
The challenges, like any industry, are the resources needed to provide this support.
A call for coordinated farmers’ support from all angles [is required]. There’s also a need for the design of an undisrupted programme that will have an impact on the farm or business operations.
What’s the suggested solution?
There is no one-size-fits-all in this sector. But coordination, lobbying for funding and a structured plan of support is required by all parties involved in the sector including farmers.
READ NEXT: Grab indaba tickets before they’re gone!
Sign up for Mzansi Today: Your daily take on the news and happenings from the agriculture value chain.
