Mahikeng- The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has officially launched
the Farmers Market Day initiative, a ground-breaking effort aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture, boosting
local economies, and empowering small-scale farmers across various municipalities in the province.
The initiative is designed to connect farmers directly with consumers, providing a vibrant marketplace for selling
fresh, locally produced goods while enhancing food security and economic growth. By cutting out intermediaries,
Farmers Market Day ensures that producers receive fair value for their produce, while consumers gain access to
affordable, high-quality agricultural products.
MEC Madoda Sambatha has hailed the initiative as a game-changer in strengthening rural economies and
transforming the agricultural landscape of the province. “Through this program, we are not only promoting
sustainability but also ensuring that emerging farmers have access to markets and the support they need to
thrive. We, therefore, urge local communities, residents, and businesses to support this initiative by attending
the markets and purchasing fresh, locally grown produce, thereby contributing to the growth and development
of the agricultural sector in the North West Province,” stated MEC Sambatha.
The Farmers Market Day will be launched across different municipalities, showcasing a diverse range of
agricultural products, from fresh produce to livestock and processed goods. The Matlosana Local Municipality
successfully hosted the first Farmers Market Day, followed by the Greater Taung Local Municipality.The next
Farmers Market Day is scheduled for 07 March 2025 in Mamusa Local Municipality, with additional municipalities
expected to follow suit at a later stage.
During these market days, the Department provides producers and SMMEs with technical support to enhance
productivity, capacity-building workshops focusing on food safety, quality standards, and business operations as
well as improved product offerings to meet consumer demands
Speaking at the recent Farmers Market Day in Taung, a poultry farmer, Ms. Tshegofatso Tekolo from Extension
7 in Taung, expressed her gratitude for the initiative. “The Farmers Market is a step forward in connecting us as
smallholder farmers and business owners with the wider community,” said Ms. Tekolo.
The Farmers Market Day initiative aligns with DARD’s commitment to supporting smallholder farmers, improving
food security and enhancing economic opportunities for rural residents.
By creating these dedicated spaces for farmers and SMMEs, the Department aims to reduce market access
barriers, boost local trade, and empower communities to thrive in a sustainable and economically viable manner.
PHOTO CAPTIONS
PHOTOS 676A1393 & 676A1284: Farmers proudly displaying their products at the recent Farmers
Market Days.
For inquiries, contact:
Media Liaison Officer: Ms Khutala Tshangela
Cell: 066 458 6915
Email: KTshangela06@gmail.com / KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za
Issued by
The Directorate Communication Services
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Departmental Spokesperson: Ms. Emelda Setlhako
Cell: 060 745 4020
Email: ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
Website: www.dard.nwpg.gov.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpread
X: @nwpg_dard