Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
FARMERS in Matabeleland South have been urged to adopt market-driven production and strengthen collective marketing through cooperatives and producer associations as the province positions itself for greater agricultural self-sufficiency.
Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Albert Nguluvhe said farmers should produce with markets in mind and utilise platforms such as agricultural expos to build partnerships, attract investment and secure reliable buyers.
He made the remarks on Saturday while officially opening the sixth Umzingwane District Agricultural and Trade Expo at Ncema Valley Country Club in Esigodini.
Held from August 6 to 8 under the theme, “Unlocking Markets – Building Partnerships – Discovering Opportunities,” the expo brought together farmers, entrepreneurs, businesses and other stakeholders to showcase products, exchange knowledge and explore investment opportunities.
Minister Nguluvhe said the expo should be viewed as more than an annual event, describing it as a catalyst for long-term investment, enterprise development and market expansion.
He urged organisers to put in place mechanisms to track investment commitments, business partnerships and market linkages generated through the exhibition so that opportunities identified during the event translate into tangible economic benefits.
“The theme is fully aligned with the aspirations of the Second Republic, the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and the devolution agenda. It is a reminder that sustainable development is achieved when production is matched with markets, innovation is supported by partnerships and opportunities are transformed into tangible livelihoods for the people,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
He said agriculture should increasingly be market-driven rather than production-driven, with farmers taking into account market requirements, quality standards and consumer preferences before planting.
“Agriculture must increasingly become market-driven rather than production-driven. Our farmers must produce with clear knowledge of market requirements, quality standards and consumer preferences. Access to markets should not be treated as an afterthought but should form part of every production plan,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
He encouraged farmers to embrace collective marketing through cooperatives and producer associations, saying the approach would strengthen their bargaining power while reducing transaction costs and improving access to finance, inputs and dependable markets.
The minister also called for increased investment in value addition and beneficiation, saying local processing of agricultural produce would create jobs, strengthen industries and boost returns for farmers.
He said agricultural and trade expos should function as practical marketplaces where farmers engage processors, entrepreneurs connect with investors and local businesses secure sustainable markets.
“Sustainable development requires effective collaboration among Government institutions, local authorities, traditional leaders, financial institutions, research institutions, development partners, the private sector and our communities,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
“Public-private partnerships are an important vehicle for infrastructure development, agricultural modernisation and industrial growth. Through collaboration, we can mobilise greater resources, transfer technology, strengthen value chains and accelerate investment.”
Minister Nguluvhe urged Government departments to continue providing responsive extension services, veterinary support, training, business development services and efficient regulatory systems.
He said financial institutions should develop affordable financial products tailored to the needs of smallholder farmers, young people and women entrepreneurs.
Minister Nguluvhe also called on farmers to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices as the province continues to face the effects of changing weather patterns and water shortages.
He encouraged investment in efficient water management systems, irrigation, conservation farming, drought-tolerant crops and improved livestock production methods.
“The future of agriculture lies in innovation, technology and climate resilience. I therefore urge our young people to become innovators, investors and employers within agricultural and mining value chains,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
“To our farmers, continue embracing innovation, improve quality, maintain proper production records and produce for competitive markets. To our entrepreneurs, identify opportunities along agricultural, mining and tourism value chains and build enterprises that create wealth and employment.”
Minister Nguluvhe said Government would continue implementing programmes aimed at empowering farmers and communities to participate meaningfully in national development, adding that Matabeleland South had a critical role to play in the achievement of Vision 2030.
Speaking at the same event, Umzingwane legislator and Deputy Minister of Defence and Security Brigadier-General (Retired) Levi Mayihlome described the expo as an important platform for investment, innovation, business networking, knowledge sharing and economic transformation.
He said development should be driven from the grassroots, with communities playing an active role in shaping their economic future.
“Umzingwane District possesses enormous potential. Agriculture, livestock production, mining, tourism and entrepreneurship present significant opportunities for economic growth and employment creation,” said Brig-Gen (Rtd) Mayihlome.
“Our responsibility is to unlock this potential by strengthening productivity, improving value addition and ensuring that local products access competitive markets. Working together we can unlock opportunities and build a prosperous Umzingwane.”
The Government’s drive to expand agricultural production has seen agricultural exhibitions decentralised to ward, zone, cluster and district levels to ensure farmers embrace innovation, technology and high-value production at grassroots level.
In Matabeleland South, ward, zone, cluster and district agricultural expos, shows and seed fairs have been held ahead of the provincial exhibition.
The Matabeleland South Agricultural Show will be held from August 20 to 22 under the theme, “Unlocking New Opportunities Through Collaboration.”
