Gqeberha: Farmers in the Sarah Baartman District have welcomed the revival of agricultural shows, describing them as an important platform to celebrate excellence and expand market access. The latest agricultural show was held at the Port Elizabeth Fresh Produce Market on Tuesday, drawing participants from across the district and the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro in the Eastern Cape.
According to South African Government News Agency, Odwa Fede, who won the award for best mohair wool, expressed his honor in being part of the event. Speaking after the show, Fede noted that the platform enabled him to network with fellow farmers and industry experts who offered valuable advice on improving his enterprise. He emphasized the significance of the event for farmers, highlighting the rare opportunity to gather and showcase their produce.
Reflecting on future plans, Fede stated his intention to revisit his strategies for mohair production and seek improvements based on insights gained at the show. Another young farmer, Phumeza Dolo, who received a special youth award for her outstanding stall, acknowledged the show for providing much-needed exposure for her agricultural enterprise. She urged the provincial Department of Agriculture to continue hosting such events, noting the increased clientele and product sales as a result of the show.
The show in Gqeberha was the fourth installment of agricultural shows during the current financial year, with previous events held in the Amathole District, including Buffalo City Metro, followed by the OR Tambo and Chris Hani Districts. More shows are planned across other districts in the next financial year.
The agricultural model, traditionally focused on product quality and category-based judging, is now being reimagined to emphasize market access and foster commercial opportunities for farmers. Eastern Cape Agriculture MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe, who championed the reintroduction of the initiative, hailed the show as a success. Kontsiwe noted that the event would help farmers secure new clients and acquire additional knowledge.
During the show, Kontsiwe also handed over 32 industrial sewing machines to 17 enterprises in the Sarah Baartman District and Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality to enhance garment production and improve quality standards. Kontsiwe encouraged the beneficiaries to expand their operations, supply retail outlets, and eventually open their own shops.