Under the open skies of Randfontein, a field of potatoes became more than just a harvest. It became a classroom, a meeting point, and a glimpse into the future of farming on the West Rand.
Hosted at Audrey Letsholo’s farm, the Potatoes SA Information and Harvest Day brought together farmers, industry leaders, and market stakeholders in a shared mission to grow not only quality produce, but sustainable opportunities.
For the Joburg Market, the day was a powerful reminder that meaningful impact begins at ground level by listening, engaging, and walking the journey with farmers from soil to market.
Letsholo set the tone, calling on collective support: “We need help from everyone in here to assist farmers in the West Rand to farm potatoes.”
This message resonated throughout the day, as farmers actively engaged, asked questions, and absorbed critical insights shared during the sessions.
The programme, led by Potatoes SA’s Takalani Sikhau, offered practical knowledge and real-life experiences. Farmers were particularly attentive during testimonies from beneficiaries like Thabiso Setsweleng, who highlighted the value of structured support: “What we thought we knew about cultivating potatoes was completely different to what the programme taught us.”
Moments like these underscored the importance of continuous learning and adapting to modern agricultural practices.
For the Joburg Market, the event was a meaningful opportunity to strengthen relationships and empower farmers with market knowledge. Acting Senior Manager for Commercial Services Lesego Seyama captured attention when she remarked: “I’m very impressed with the quality of potatoes I’m seeing here today and hope that we see these potatoes being delivered at the market.”
Her presentation unpacked how the Market operates, equipping farmers with practical understanding on how to access and succeed within formal markets.
SUPPLIED.
