To address the pressing need for skill development among emerging commercial farmers and processors in South Africa, the project “Sustainable Horticultural Value Chains in the Boland Region with Integration of Renewable Energy Concepts” has been launched. This initiative focuses on strengthening food safety practices and quality management within the fruit and vegetable sector.
From 13 – 16 August 2024, a specialized training session titled “GLOBALG.A.P. and Food Safety along the Fruit and Vegetable Chain” took place at Boland College’s Worcester Campus. The training was led by experts Mark Bos and Feline Heussen, and it brought together 32 participants, including Boland College teaching staff, Koue Bokkeveld staff, farmers, and exporters.
The primary aim of the training was to equip participants with the necessary skills to implement GLOBALG.A.P. standards in their operations. GLOBALG.A.P. is an internationally recognized certification system essential for ensuring food safety and quality management in agricultural production. Without such certification, producers and processors are unable to access retail and export markets. The training also emphasized the importance of integrating these standards into everyday farming practices and developing a practical handbook for GLOBALG.A.P. implementation at the farm level.
The training was designed as a hands-on, interactive session spread over 3.5 days, including a full-day field visit. The curriculum covered various aspects of food safety, market demands, and the implementation of GLOBALG.A.P. standards in both greenhouse and open-field production.
This training has significantly enhanced the capacity of emerging farmers and agricultural staff in the Boland region. By providing them with the tools and knowledge to implement GLOBALG.A.P. standards, the project aims to ensure that South African farmers can meet the stringent requirements of both local and international markets. Additionally, the focus on renewable energy integration in horticulture underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability.
The success of this training marks a crucial step forward in empowering South Africa’s emerging farmers with the skills necessary to thrive in a competitive global market. As they continue to apply the knowledge gained, these farmers are well-positioned to contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous agricultural sector in the region.