Zingiswa Mndayi
Johannesburg is just several sleeps away from hosting the prestigious World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) Conference, and the City is gearing up to welcome global leaders in fresh produce, food security, and agricultural innovation. At the recent media launch, Executive Mayor Cllr Dada Morero reaffirmed Joburg’s ambition to position itself as a key player on the global stage.
“WUWM 2025 is not just another event on our calendar—it’s a strategic platform that supports our growth trajectory,” said Mayor Morero.
“These types of gatherings anchor Johannesburg in global dialogue and open doors for partnerships that improve our infrastructure, capabilities, and international influence.”
Set to take place from 14 to 16 May 2025 at the Sandton Convention Centre, the WUWM Conference will bring together international voices in the agricultural sector, placing the spotlight squarely on the Joburg Market—South Africa’s largest fresh produce hub. The event will explore critical themes such as food security, sustainable market systems, and the future of market infrastructure.
“Johannesburg is emerging as a pivotal hub, particularly on the African continent,” added Mayor Morero. “Our role is to enable economic activity—from large-scale logistics to township-based entrepreneurs. We don’t just facilitate growth—we invest in it, safeguard it, and innovate around it.”
Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Economic Development, Cllr Nomoya Mnisi, called the upcoming conference a defining moment for Johannesburg, the Joburg Market, and the continent at large.
“This conference sits at the crossroads of opportunity and transformation. Africa holds more than 60% of the world’s arable land, yet we continue to face challenges related to food security, infrastructure, market access, and equitable trade,” she said.
Cllr Mnisi lauded the Joburg Market’s role as the continent’s leading fresh produce exchange, boasting an annual turnover exceeding R11 billion. “Hosting this conference not only validates our status, but also opens space for new models of growth and innovation that can uplift both developing and established economies.”
Sello Makhubela, Acting CEO of the Joburg Market, echoed these sentiments and revealed that the 2025 edition will be held under the theme “Markets for Growth, Inclusion and Sustainability”.
“What sets this year apart is the emphasis on African-led solutions. For too long, African markets have been overlooked or undervalued. This event is about rewriting that narrative and asserting Africa’s voice in global conversations,” he said.
Delegates can expect robust knowledge exchange, strategic networking, and dialogue on investment strategies that create jobs, optimise food supply chains, and improve food access across regions. The event will also give the Joburg Market valuable exposure to international best practices and foster collaborations with global thought leaders.
Johannesburg is ready. The world is watching. And the countdown to WUWM 2025 has officially begun.
SOURCED FROM THE JOBURG WEBSITE.
