By Maphuti Machabaphala
LDARD, Deputy Director: Capricorn Northwestern, Raletjatji Makgato, delivered words of support and highlighted opportunities and programs designed to help citrus farmers upscale and become self-sufficient.
Citrus farmers from across the province gathered in Ga-Raweshe, Ga-Matlala, under the Blouberg Local Municipality in the Capricorn Northwestern Agro-Ecological Zone to celebrate the annual Limpopo Citrus Farmers’ Day.
This event was held in partnership with LandBank SA, Citrus Growers Association (CGA), Grower Development Company, Lona, Khulq, Henley and Du Roi Nurseries, Letaba, Laeveld Agrochem, Mahela Group, and River Bioscience
The event’s theme: “Citrus Production Unlocking Rural Development”, was brought to life through presentations on compliance with production standards, biosecurity on citrus farms, citrus industry training and bursary opportunities, control of citrus pests and diseases, and funding opportunities for citrus production expansion. These topics benefit farmers by ensuring quality produce, reducing risks from pests and diseases, providing youth with skills and bursaries, improving farm competitiveness, and creating sustainable opportunities for growth and market access.
“As South Africa is the second largest contributor to citrus production globally, it is imperative that rural and small-scale farmers are given the right tools and information to penetrate export markets and contribute towards the GDP of the country”, he said.
LDARD, Deputy Director: Capricorn Northwestern, Raletjatji Makgato, was present to deliver words of support and highlighted opportunities and programs designed to help citrus farmers upscale and become self-sufficient during this insightful Citrus Farmers’ Day.
The thought-provoking and insightful gathering was made possible by Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD), LandBank SA, Citrus Growers Association (CGA), Grower Development Company, Lona, Khulq, Henley and Du Roi Nurseries, Letaba, Laeveld Agrochem, Mahela Group, and River Bioscience.
