By Charmaine Ndlela
City of Johannesburg officials have assessed five potential sites for a fresh produce market aimed at improving access to affordable food and stimulating township economic activity, the city said on Thursday.
Nomoya Mnisi, member of the mayoral committee (MMC) for economic development, joined Joburg Market board chairperson Mzikayise Ndlovu and chief executive Sello Makhubela on the oversight visit.
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The proposed market is part of a long-term strategy to decentralise fresh produce trading beyond the city centre, creating opportunities for informal traders, emerging farmers, transporters and small businesses while generating local employment, the city said.
Feasibility studies will be carried out in the coming months to determine the most suitable operating model, infrastructure requirements, and sustainability measures for the Soweto market, it said.
“This project represents a shift in how we deliver food access and economic opportunity. By bringing market infrastructure closer to communities, we are ensuring that township economies can thrive, creating spaces where local entrepreneurs and traders can grow their businesses.
“Residents will not only benefit from affordable, fresh produce, but the initiative will also foster job creation, skills development, and inclusive participation in the agricultural value chain,” Mnisi said.
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“Following our assessment, three of the five sites have been identified for further feasibility and impact studies. These studies will guide us in determining the most suitable locations to build the Soweto Market and start unlocking economic opportunities and stimulating local development in Soweto,” Mnisi said.
The initiative supports the city’s goals of spatial transformation and inclusive economic participation, the city said.