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30 Jul 2012

The Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Ms Tina Joemat-Pettersson will join Massmart's Group Supplier Development Executive, Mr Mncane Mthunzi together with representatives from TechnoServe at the launch of the Ezemvelo Direct Farm Programme on Thursday, 2 August in Tzaneen, Limpopo.

The programme is aimed at developing and diversifying farmers’ local sourcing capacity in fresh produce. Part of the day's proceedings will include the Minister visiting two farms and witnessing the harvesting of vegetables which will be sold at Massmart stores. This initiative greatly assists with food security and the development of smallholder farmers through support from Massmart.

Massmart and TechnoServe, a non-government organisation and service provider are piloting the Ezemvelo Direct Farm programme. Between 30 and 50 smallholder farmers are expected to participate in the capacity building and market linkages project. These smallholder farmers will receive certificates from the Minister and Massmart on the day.

Massmart has committed to assisting these smallholder farmers with input finance, pack-house refurbishment, skills development and providing a market for their produce. An amount of R15 million has been invested in the project to be expended over a period of three years.

Details of the launch:
Date: Thursday, 2 August 2012
Place: Limpopo, Tzaneen

Please note that this is an all-day event that will include tours of the farms. Transport is available from Johannesburg to Limpopo and back. If you would like to join us please RSVP.

For more enquiries and RSVP please contact:
Palesa Mokomele, Spokesperson for the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
Cell: 082 904 1908,  Pretoria
Tel: 012 319 7876
Fax: 012 319 6681

Tel: 021 467 4502, Cape Town
Fax: 021 465 6550

Issued by: Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
30 Jul 2012

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