Butterworth: Eastern Cape MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development and Agrarian Reform, Nonceba Kontsiwe, has welcomed the strong public support shown for the department's Agricultural Show and Mnquma Market Day where farmers from across the Amathole District successfully marketed and sold their produce.

According to South African Government News Agency, Kontsiwe addressed attendees at the show, held at Monument Centre in Butterworth, emphasizing the growing value of agricultural shows as platforms for connecting farmers with consumers, expanding market access, and creating economic opportunities. She commended the people of Butterworth for their support, as many attendees left the venue with various types of produce they had purchased.

Kontsiwe stated, 'These shows are not meant to be places where farmers showcase produce only but 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.'

The shows were reintroduced last year, offering farmers from Amathole, Chris Hani, Sarah Baartman, and OR Tambo District Municipalities an opportunity to showcase their produce to buyers, agricultural experts, and other industry stakeholders. The events serve as platforms for participants across the agricultural value chain to exhibit produce, products, innovations, and funding instruments, fostering networking and information-sharing.

Kontsiwe highlighted the department's reimagined agricultural show model, focusing on market access and commercial opportunities, which will be implemented across all district municipalities in the province. 'The shows have transitioned from purely competitive events to vibrant, interactive marketplaces that connect farmers directly with potential buyers, financial service providers, and agri-business stakeholders,' she said.

David Nomngqokwana, Chairperson of the Mnquma Farmers' Association, expressed support for the initiative, noting its value in providing farmers with opportunities to sell produce and strengthen businesses. He emphasized the importance of continuing these shows for improving produce, learning from others, and gaining market access, contributing to the goal of becoming commercial farmers.

The department announced that quarterly agricultural shows will be held in all district municipalities, aiming to bridge the gap between production and markets, empower farmers, stimulate rural economies, and contribute to the growth of the agricultural value chain across the province.