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Veggie production needs 116% increase to match national demand – LEA

Speaking partnerships: Moatshe says more linkages are required amongst retailers, farmers and financiers PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG
Speaking partnerships: Moatshe says more linkages are required amongst retailers, farmers and financiers PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG

The Local Enterprise Authority (LEA) estimates that local production of the 16 crops currently restricted from being imported into the country, will have to be more than doubled to meet local demand.

Prior to the import ban introduced by the Ministry of Agricultural Development and Food Security on January 1, 2022, three crops in particular, being potatoes, tomatoes and onions, accounted for 53% of the horticultural import bill.

Currently, local production of potatoes accounts for 49% of national demand, while tomatoes account for 44% of national demand and onions 49%.

Editor's Comment
Micro-procurement maze demands urgent reform

Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...

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