By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe
The Premier of Mpumalanga, Mandla Ndlovu, alongside the Members of the Executive Council, and other senior government officials, conducted an oversight visit at the MIFPM(Mpumalanga International Fresh Produce Market), to assess progress on the market’s completion and readiness ahead of the much-anticipated official opening.
Mpumalanga Provincial Government spokesperson, George Mthethwa, said the state-of-the-art produce market is set to revolutionise agribusiness, bringing transparency, diversity, and inclusion to the fresh produce industry.
According to Mthethwa, the visit by Premier Ndlovu and the various MECs, also aimed to assess the operational efficiency of the market, as well as confirming if it benefits communities across the province of Mpumalanga.
“ The Premier’s visit highlights the provincial government’s commitment in boosting local farmers, expanding international trade, as well as creating the much-needed jobs. The landmark initiative in the province is also aimed at transforming food trade, empowering local farmers, and boosting economic growth in the province,” said Mthethwa.
In addition, Mthethwa stated that informal traders contribute more than R24.6 billion of trade in fruits and vegetables across the 16 Fresh Produce Markets in South Africa. He noted that the MIFPM will be used for export purposes as it is perfectly positioned in the Lowveld, not far from Maputo Harbour in Mozambique.
MEC for DEDT(Department of Economic Development and Tourism), Makhosazane Masilela, said her department will drive economic growth at both provincial and national levels, through MEGA(Mpumalanga Economic Growth Agency).
“ The market will improve food security, create jobs, and enhance nutrition for underprivileged communities, by linking small-scale farmers with international, regional, and local buyers,” said Masilela.
