WeeklySA_AdminMUTUAL: Mpumalanga targets the Asian superpower to establish synergies in agriculture to impact the 1 400 farmers in the province, and create 1 400 job spin-offs…
By Own Correspondent
Premier Mandla Ndlovu is currently leading a high-level investment mission to the People’s Republic of China from June 14 to 25
The mission is geared towards the operationalization of the Mpumalanga International Fresh Produce Market (MIFPM), the first large-scale market infrastructure in the province.
Agriculture contributes significantly to the economic growth and job creation in the province.
Ndlovu says the Chinese trip is key in laying a strong foundation for the realisation of these aspirations.
“We are targeting the Chinese markets because they have reputable trade institutions internationally for the export of agricultural commodities. We will visit cities with a growing population and strong Gross Domestic Products (GDP).
“These are the values we are looking for in a quest to make the Fresh Produce Market a game-changer in the food chain industry,” Premier Ndlovu stresses.
He believes the market will contribute significantly towards the transformation of the farming sector, and this includes training of farmers to obtain licenses of trading in the international markets.
The strategic visit comprises a delegation that includes Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs MEC Nompumelelo Hlophe, as well as senior officials of the office of the Premier.
The outbound visit will be undertaken at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation for trade investment,
Longnan City, renowned for traditional medicine, mining and olive oil production and the Tianshui Inland Port, a model area for modern agricultural development.
Describing the visit as timely, he further stated: “The visit must be seen in the context of a determination by the 7th Administration to reduce unemployment and poverty in Mpumalanga. It comes at a time when this administration is on a quest to drive inclusive growth and job creation and to reduce poverty.
“It is envisaged that 1 500 job opportunities will be created, while 1 400 farmers across the province will benefit once the fresh produce market is in operation,” he said.
He added that the international fresh produce market will be operational before the end of the year. Premier Ndlovu has, in accordance with Section 131 (1) (a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, appointed Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs MEC Speed Mashilo, as the Acting Premier during the period of his overseas visit.
MEC Mashilo was sworn-in as the Acting Premier by Judge President of the Mpumalanga Division of the High Court, Justice Segopotje Mphahlele on June 11. – Mpumalanga Mirror
