Safeguarding the global agricultural sector and food security: Gauteng’s role as Africa’s agro-processing hub

Positioning Gauteng as Africa’s Leading Agro-Processing Hub

Gauteng is pivotal in Africa’s food security and agricultural value chain, processing 35% of the continent’s food.

As South Africa assumes the G20 presidency, Gauteng has a unique opportunity to solidify its position as the gateway for investment into Africa’s agro-processing and food production sectors.

• Click here to learn more about investSA Gauteng.

According to the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency (GGDA), the province has established itself as a key logistics and agro-processing hub, leveraging its advanced infrastructure, research capabilities, and access to regional agricultural supply chains.

Gauteng’s strategic location and well-developed logistics network make it a preferred destination for multinational agribusinesses looking to expand their African footprint.

Strengthening Food Security Through Agro-Processing

Agricultural products from the continent, mainly Central Africa and the SADC region, are processed in Gauteng for local consumption and international export.

Integrating African agricultural produce into Gauteng’s processing ecosystem enhances value addition and creates new revenue streams for regional farmers and agribusinesses.

Gauteng’s competitive advantage in agro-processing stems from:

• State-of-the-art infrastructure: The province boasts high-capacity processing facilities, cold storage units, and an extensive logistics network, which allows for the efficient movement of agricultural goods.
• A skilled workforce and research institutions: Collaboration with the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), universities, and private sector partners ensures the innovation of food processing and preservation technologies.
• Strong policy support: The GGDA, in collaboration with the provincial government, has introduced incentives for agribusiness investments, focusing on food security and sustainability.

Supporting Smallholder and Emerging Farmers

One of Gauteng’s key objectives is to bridge the gap between smallholder farmers and commercial markets.

The provincial government and its agencies support smallholder farmers through:

• Access to agricultural inputs: Farmers receive critical supplies such as seeds, fertilizers, and breeding stock.
• State-owned machinery and equipment: Programs providing tractors, combined harvesters, and cold storage vehicles are helping to enhance productivity and reduce post-harvest losses.
• Market access initiatives: Through strategic partnerships, emerging farmers gain access to retail chains, processing plants, and international export opportunities.

The GGDA’s agro-processing development programs aim to increase local production capacity, reduce reliance on food imports, and ensure long-term food security for the province and beyond.

G20 Presidency: A Catalyst for Agro-Investment in Gauteng

South Africa’s presidency of the G20 presents an unprecedented platform to attract investment into Gauteng’s agricultural and food processing sectors.

The GGDA identifies key investment opportunities that align with global trends in food security, sustainability, and climate resilience, including:

• Agro-processing industrial parks: Establish dedicated zones for food processing and packaging.
• Smart agriculture and digital innovation: Investment in precision farming, AI-driven supply chain management, and climate-smart agricultural practices.
• Export-driven agricultural growth: Expanding Gauteng’s role as a major supplier of processed agrarian goods to international markets.

Investing in Gauteng’s Agro-Processing Future

With its established infrastructure, strong institutional support, and integration into African and global agricultural markets, Gauteng is a prime investment destination for agribusinesses looking to expand in Africa.

As South Africa leads the G20 discussions on food security and economic resilience, Gauteng stands ready to harness these opportunities to drive sustainable agricultural growth and position itself as Africa’s agro-processing powerhouse.

Investors looking to participate in this transformative sector are encouraged to engage with the GGDA and investSA Gauteng to explore tailored investment solutions and strategic partnerships.

Click here to learn more about investSA Gauteng.

Insights supplied by investSA Gauteng One-Stop-Shop, an initiative within the implementation arm of the Gauteng Department of Economic Development, tasked with leading, facilitating, and managing sustainable job creation and inclusive economic growth and development in the Gauteng City Region.