On August 15, DA Caucus of the Sedibeng District Municipality conducted an oversight visit at the Vereeniging Fresh Produce Market. The visit aimed to evaluate the market’s operational status, infrastructure upgrades, and overall efficiency following recent municipal support.

PR Councillor Ayanda Ngubane, DA spokesperson for Local Economic development in Sedibeng District said the market, while undergoing visible improvements, remains significantly underutilised.

Ngubane highlighted that despite ongoing renovations including roof repairs with a R300,000 budget and lighting system upgrades, a large number of storage units lie vacant due to a limited client base.

“Although cold rooms and ripening facilities are functional, low client uptake has led to delays in repairing non-essential units.”

During the oversight, members of the DA acknowledged the management’s dedication and infrastructure improvements, whilst bringing several critical challenges to the fore.
These include underutilisation, insufficient staffing, misuse of toilet facilities for storage.

“Security remains a concern, with only minimal personnel on duty and CCTV systems still being updated. Management has called for increased support, especially in attracting clients and ensuring a return on investment.”

The DA Caucus recommends targeted municipal support, a robust marketing and client acquisition strategy, enhanced security, expedited compliance processes, and a review of staffing levels.

The DA says it will continue to monitor progress and advocate for effective interventions at the fresh produce.

“The Sedibeng Fresh Produce Market holds significant potential as a hub for local economic growth and food distribution. Realising this potential, however, requires urgent strategic action and stronger alignment between market operations and municipal support structures.”