A R30 million agricultural hub in Mpumalanga, initially championed by the late premier David Mabuza, has been systematically stripped by vandals and thieves, leaving little remaining on the site. Despite the ongoing theft, the Dr JS Moroka municipality continues to pay for 24-hour security.
Site Stripped Despite Round-the-Clock Security
The hub, intended to serve both large- and small-scale farmers, is now devoid of machinery, at least nine water tanks, electrical bathroom fittings and irrigation pipes. At least five 2,500l JoJo tanks were found burned on the property, and crop protection structures have been dismantled, with supporting steel stolen. All borehole equipment has also been stolen.
Security personnel, tasked with protecting the site, have themselves become targets. Residents report that guards were recently beaten and tied up by individuals seeking copper cables. The site is fenced, but breaches allow easy access for thieves. A passerby noted, “Criminals carry guns and the guards have batons and a one-way radio.”
A Market Years in the Making
The Dr JS Moroka Fresh Produce Market in Moripe Gardens was designed to connect farmers with the Mpumalanga International Fresh Produce Market for local and international distribution. Construction began in August 2010 but stalled a month later due to a land dispute. Work resumed in May 2013, but a contractor was dismissed in September for poor performance. Another contractor was appointed in April 2015, with a completion date of September 9, 2015, and a budget of R14 million. That contractor was also terminated, and a further contractor was appointed for R6 million.
Residents Question Missing Millions
Residents state the market was completed in 2020, with the adjacent agricultural site finished in subsequent years. “Both the agricultural site and the market was supposed to be an agri-hub, where farmers could sell their produce, but money was stolen in phases,” said resident Thulani Sihlangu. “A cold room worth millions of rands was installed and stolen within a week. Everything has been stolen, all that is left is the walls. That is why I see no sense in paying security guards to guard nothing.”
DA MPL Bosman Grobler highlighted a similar incomplete agri-hub project in Mkhondo municipality, where at least R142 million has reportedly been spent. This project, also intended to provide a formal collection and packaging point for local farmers, has remained unfinished for over a decade.
Farmers Left Without Promised Support
Local traditional leader Madolo III Mahlangu emphasized the importance of farming to the local economy, given the high unemployment rate in the municipality. He stated the agri-hub could have significantly improved the lives of many residents, expressing hope for a resolution and the facility’s eventual operation.
The Citizen sought comment from Dr JS Moroka municipality spokesperson Mmasabata Ramatsetse, but only received confirmation of receipt of the inquiry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the intended purpose of the Dr JS Moroka agri-hub?
The hub was meant to support commercial and small-scale farmers by enabling them to supply fresh produce to the Mpumalanga International Fresh Produce Market for local and international distribution.
How much money has been spent on the Dr JS Moroka agri-hub?
A total of R30 million has been spent on the agri-hub, with multiple contractors appointed over the years at a combined cost of R20 million.
What is the current state of security at the agri-hub?
The Dr JS Moroka municipality continues to pay for four security guards per shift, but the site has been stripped bare despite their presence, and the guards have reportedly been targeted by thieves.
What steps might be taken to prevent similar failures in future infrastructure projects?
