By Tshifhiwa Muifha
Cedrick Nephawe from Johannesburg National Market simplifies requirements to access market.
The Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD), in collaboration with Joburg Market, African Farming and Collins Chabane Local Municipality, has strengthened efforts to empower small-scale farmers to understand and access formal markets.
The capacity-building session, held at Malamulele Community Hall in Vhembe, focused on market requirements, compliance, market principles and building a sustainable fresh produce value chain.
Various agricultural stakeholders shared practical insights to help farmers become market-ready and improve their participation in the agricultural economy.
The Agricultural Produce Agents Council (APAC) outlined its regulatory role, including ensuring compliance among produce agents, stock audits and reporting requirements.
Land Bank presented a range of financial solutions available to farmers, including agricultural insurance, blended finance, infrastructure finance, and livestock and crop insurance. While the Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB) also contributed to the session, providing farmers with valuable information on quality standards and compliance requirements essential for accessing formal and export markets.
