Garden Route District Initiates Fresh Produce Market Project Seeking Government Land Support

In a strategic move to bolster local agriculture and contribute to the region's economic growth, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) is zeroing in on a significant initiative that involves creating a Fresh Produce Market. Since May 2024, GRDM has been in active talks with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, seeking to acquire a land transfer of 15 to 30 hectares.

GRDM’s ambition comes at an opportune moment, as the COVID-19 pandemic and global trade issues have highlighted the importance of self-sufficiency and strong local economies. Councillor Hilton Stroebel, who oversees Property and Asset Management, has been leading the charge. He asserts that securing these specific parcels of land is not just a boon for economic development but also sits perfectly aligned with the goals set at both national and provincial levels.

The fresh produce market concept is not a whimsical idea but is backed by solid research and planning. The municipality has commissioned and completed a feasibility study and business plan to underscore the potential success and sustainability of the project. The market is designed to support the full spectrum of the agricultural sector, enriching both small-scale subsistence farmers and larger commercial operations by providing them with a platform to sell their produce directly to consumers and businesses.

Moreover, the potential benefits of the initiative extend into the educational sector as well. Nelson Mandela University and the Western Cape College of Nursing have expressed an interest in additional land being negotiated for student accommodation. Given the concurrent need for improved housing solutions, the alignment of these interests further underscores the multi-dimensional impact the land acquisition could have for the region.

The targeted properties, located in George within the GRDM jurisdiction, provide a strategic advantage due to their positioning in residential zones and Priority Human Settlements and Housing Development Areas. A response to GRDM’s formal land transfer request is highly anticipated. The implication of this would be not only a new business node providing much-needed services and access to markets for local agricultural producers but would also symbolically and practically reinforce the cornerstone of community development: education through improved student accommodation facilities.

This initiative comes under the direct jurisdiction of GRDM, as set out in the Local Government: Municipal Structures Act 117 of 1998, specifically Section 84(1)(k). This legislation empowers district municipalities to develop such enterprises which, in turn, contribute to bolstering local economies. Public access to fresh, locally-sourced produce and the consequent strengthening of the local agricultural value chain could transform the socio-economic landscape of the region.

A gathering on October 19, 2024, brought together key stakeholders, including Knysna Executive Mayor Cllr Aubrey Tsengwa, GRDM MMC for Properties and Asset Management Cllr Hilton Stroebel, and other government officials from various departments. The dialogue underscored the commitment from different levels of government to work collaboratively towards common development goals.

As the Garden Route District forges ahead with plans for this ambitious Fresh Produce Market, it stands at the cusp of creating a pivotal economic pillar not only for its residents but also for the surrounding ecosystem that supports education, housing, and healthcare services through synergistic community-oriented development.