The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture has revived its quarterly agricultural shows, with MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe urging smallholder farmers to take full advantage of new support and market access opportunities to transition into commercial farming.
Speaking at the show held at Bhisho Showgrounds, Kontsiwe praised the quality of produce on display and encouraged farmers to think beyond subsistence.
“We want you to become business people… you must graduate to be commercial farmers,” she said.
Kontsiwe said she was moved by the high standard of vegetables, poultry, and other produce showcased by farmers, many of whom had received government assistance.
What Are These Agricultural Shows?
Starting this year, four agricultural expos will take place each year across the province — one per quarter — giving farmers an ongoing platform to:
- Showcase produce
- Connect with suppliers and buyers
- Learn about finance, technology, and markets
- Get direct feedback from retailers and agencies
Farmers Embrace the Opportunity
Local farmer Nomali Ncumani from Toise, near Stutterheim, said the experience was eye-opening.
“I saw how things can be done differently. There’s so much unity among farmers — that’s how we grow,” she said.
Who Was There?
The event drew broad support from key government and private players including:
- Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency (ECRDA)
- Buffalo City Metro & Amathole District Municipality
- Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA)
- Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC)
- Luziko Fresh Produce
- Foody Basket and more
Luziko founder Nkosikho Nkantso urged farmers to produce at high standards to meet retail requirements.
ECRDA CEO Simphiwe Somdyala committed the agency to buying produce and supplying government departments like Health and Education.
“We will buy from local farmers and help them reach wider markets,” said Somdyala.
Why It Matters
These revived agricultural shows are not just exhibitions — they are part of a broader economic transformation strategy for rural Eastern Cape. With the right partnerships and support, farmers can now plug directly into value chains, grow their income, and fight poverty through agriculture.
