By Pelane Phakgadi and Tebogo Mabidilala
LDARD MEC Nakedi Kekana (left), Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and Tzaneen AgriEXPO Director, Tsholofelo Mokobe take a walk-about in the exhibition stalls.
Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Ms Nakedi Kekana had attended the Agri 5 Expo campaign held at Tzaneen Country Lodge, in the Greater Tzaneen Municipality on 20 November 2025.
The objectives of the Agri 5 Expo include facilitating the growth and transformation of African farmers especially emerging farmers into fully fledged commercial producers by promoting the adoption of new agricultural technologies, expanding access to both local and international markets, and creating opportunities for farmers to supply fresh produce to major urban centres and large metropolitan markets.
LDARD MEC Nakedi Kekana is attending the Agri 5 Expo in Tzaneen, Mopani District, where she continues to champion agriculture as a driver of economic growth, innovation, and youth participation.
The expo brings together farmers, agripreneurs, companies, and industry experts committed to strengthening the agricultural sector and creating new opportunities for rural communities.
As part of her programme, MEC Kekana has visited various exhibition stalls to engage directly with farmers, agro-processors, and innovators. She is encouraged by the strong presence of young farmers—particularly young women—who are demonstrating passion, creativity, and a growing interest in agriculture as a viable career and business pathway.
The Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba delivered the keynote address, assuring farmers of government’s continued support in strengthening agricultural production and expanding access to markets. She urged farmers to work their land diligently, adopt modern techniques, and take full advantage of platforms such as the Agri 5 Expo to learn, innovate, and improve their farming operations.
The expo offers farmers valuable exposure to essential inputs, technologies, and services that can enhance productivity and sustainability. It also empowers them with knowledge on market trends, growth opportunities, and the requirements needed to participate in both local and international markets with confidence.
Both the Premier and the MEC emphasised the importance of such platforms in empowering farmers, expanding youth participation, and building lasting partnerships. With over 35,000 farmers engaged through the Agri 5 Expo, they highlighted that the opportunities for growth, collaboration, and innovation are significant and essential to driving the agricultural sector forward.
