The Sedibeng District Municipality is proud to announce the successful hosting of the 3rd Annual Market Day, held on Friday, 23 May 2025 at the Vereeniging Fresh Produce Market. This year’s event was hosted under the theme “From Our Farms to Your Tables: A Vereeniging Market Day” and attracted farmers, market agents, buyers, agro-processors, policy makers, and community stakeholders.
Market Day aims to create a platform where engagement, education, and information sharing can take place among all stakeholders - from farmers and agri-businesses to buyers, investors and the general public. In a time where the challenges of poverty, unemployment, and food insecurity are pressing, agriculture remains one of the most effective tools for sustainable development.
Part of the key focus of the day was to involve the younger generation and enticing them to think of agriculture as a viable career. By showcasing the many opportunities available in the agricultural value chain - from primary farming and agro-processing to agri-tech and entrepreneurship - the event encourages youth to see agriculture not only as a means of survival, but as a dynamic and rewarding career path.
In reflecting on the future of Market Day, Mr. Someleze Jali, Manager of the Vereeniging Fresh Produce Market, shared plans to take youth involvement even further: “In future, we hope to dedicate a specific event just for students - to educate them about careers in agriculture. Agriculture is a big industry in South Africa, and we should do our best to guide students towards careers that will enrich both their lives and the future of our country.”
The Vereeniging Fresh Produce Market remains open for business and continues to welcome both new and existing suppliers. Suppliers – including small-scale and bulk producers – are encouraged to come forward and lease floor space at the market. With growing demand and ongoing efforts to strengthen the local agricultural economy, the market is already expanding its focus to include agro-processors, opening up even more opportunities for value addition along the agricultural value chain.
The Vereeniging Fresh Produce Market remains open for business and continues to welcome both new and existing suppliers. Suppliers – including small-scale and bulk producers – are encouraged to come forward and lease floor space at the market. With growing demand and ongoing efforts to strengthen the local agricultural economy, the market is already expanding its focus to include agro-processors, opening up even more opportunities for value addition along the agricultural value chain.
Those interested in supplying the market or exploring partnership opportunities are encouraged to reach out to the Fresh Produce Market management.
Community Reflections and Public Sentiment
The event also sparked positive responses from the public on social media. One community member, Tshepo Malau, shared on Facebook:
Mr Lucas Lebuso from JAC Dealership in Germiston posted:
Mr Dira Likhoele shared: