Premier Mandla Ndlovu said the Mpumalanga International Fresh Produce Market (MIFPM) will be launched by the end of July. He made the announcement during the funeral of former deputy president David Dabede Mabuza at Hoërskool Bergvlam on Saturday, July 12.

“As a tribute to Mabuza, it will be a great honour – and a fitting recognition of his legacy – to have you, Mr President, officially open the country’s first fresh produce market since liberation.

This market was also initiated by Mabuza. It will be fully operational by the end of the month, and we eagerly await your ribbon-cutting ceremony.”

ALSO READ: Operator to oversee Mpumalanga International Fresh Produce Market officially introduced

The MIFPM missed its soft launch date in April, which had been announced during the State of the Province Address in February.

The facility, which cost approximately R1.7b to develop, was officially handed over to the MEC for agriculture, rural development, land and environmental affairs (Dardlea), Nompumelelo Hlophe, and the MEC for economic development and tourism, Makhosazane Masilela, on August 1, 2024.

The project was initially launched in November 2018 and was due for completion by September 2020. However, several challenges – including community unrest and worker protests – caused delays.

The market will provide access to local, regional and international fresh produce. It comprises a main building with all necessary support facilities, an agro-processing building, and essential infrastructure such as access control points, roads, parking and related amenities. The project is expected to create both direct and indirect employment opportunities through the export of agricultural commodities to international markets.

ALSO READ: Mpumalanga seals five-year trade deal in China

It is hoped that the MIFPM will boost economic spin-offs for the province, attract investments – including from neighbouring Mozambique and eSwatini – and continue creating job opportunities, particularly empowering the youth and women.

On July 10, the Dardlea audit committee, along with representatives of the Auditor-General of South Africa, visited the MIFPM to ensure good corporate governance and that systems are in place ahead of the facility’s much-anticipated operations.

“Led by chairperson Abel Mawela, the committee’s visit forms part of its oversight role regarding the department’s financial reporting, risk management and internal controls, acting as independent checks and balances on management’s financial reporting practices,” said the provincial Department of Agriculture’s spokesperson, Zanele Shabangu.