Shows drive market access for emerging farmers

The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding market opportunities for smallholder farmers through a series of agricultural shows across the province, following strong public support for the recent Agricultural Show and Mnquma Market Day held in Butterworth.

- 

Speaking at the Monument Centre, Eastern Cape MEC for Agriculture Nonceba Kontsiwe said the enthusiastic response from consumers demonstrated the growing importance of agricultural shows as platforms that connect producers directly with markets.

"I must commend the people of Butterworth for supporting the farmers as today I have witnessed people carrying different kinds of produce they have bought here. These shows are not meant to be places where farmers showcase produce only - they must be hubs of economic activity. The shows have long served as a platform for celebrating excellence in farming in a bid to promote market access for smallholder farmers," Kontsiwe said.