Joburg Market Presents Vision for Future Food Security at SAUFM Conference

By: Nonhlanhla Mbonambi

Joburg Market participated in a two-day South African Union of Food Markets (SAUFM) conference held in Durban, under the theme Local Economic Development through Food Security. The event featured presentations from various stakeholders, including APAC, AFASA, and the Land and Agricultural Bank of South Africa.

JM’s Chief Operations Officer (A), Charles Park, emphasised the significant role fresh produce markets play in food security and discussed smart market initiatives.

“We are committed to shaping the future of food market industries, enhancing food security, and empowering our local producers. At the market, we have an estimated buyer base of 10,000 consumers daily who stock up from the market to feed their families,” said Park.

He further explained that Joburg Market supports fruit and vegetable outlets and supermarkets stock, with supplies sourced from farmers across South Africa and beyond. Also presented the vision for a “smart market”, one that will transform Joburg Market into a comprehensive one-stop shop offering services to various agribusinesses within the fresh produce value chain.

“At the market, there will be farm production input supplies, primary agricultural production inputs, machinery, implements, and tools, pesticides and veterinary supplies, agro-processing equipment, and packaging materials, as well as machinery, implements, and equipment parts,” said Park.

This project will also improve cold chain solutions and offer additional services, such as the market’s banana ripening facilities, elevating the facility to world-class standards.

Park also shared that Joburg Market will be hosting the next World Union Wholesale Markets (WUWM) Conference in May 2025.

“Joburg Market, Africa’s largest fresh produce market, is set to be the stage for this landmark event. Bringing this event to the African soil and showcasing the unique economic and cultural contributions Johannesburg has to offer,” concluded Park.

The SAUFM conference provided a valuable platform for stakeholders in the food market industry to come together and explore strategies for advancing local economic development through food. This collaborative effort promises to drive future growth and sustainability in the industry.