Premier Ramathuba hosts luncheon with Tshakhuma Fruit Market traders

Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba hosted a special luncheon with women traders from the Tshakhuma Fruit Market in Makhado Local Municipality, Vhembe District, on Tuesday.

Ramathuba described the market’s history as a masterclass in endurance, noting that it was established around 1968 under the shade of trees, 58 years ago, when traders used old shillings and 25-cent coins.

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She recalled how their mothers risked their lives as the Transvaal Provincial Administration routinely chased them away, but they refused to give up.

For the first time in the history of the Tshakhuma Fruit Market, all traders were guaranteed sales of at least R150 through support provided by the Premier.

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The Premier also expressed concern about how customers treat traders at the market. She said when people buy from the hardworking mothers they demand a top-up, known as “basela”, yet they pay full price without question at big supermarkets such as Shoprite, Pick n Pay and Boxer.

“This must stop! We must respect, support and value the dignity of our mothers who toil through freezing winters and scorching summers,” she said.

The luncheon forms part of the Premier’s programme to recognise and celebrate the invaluable contribution of women traders to food security, local economic development, and job creation and community livelihoods across the Vhembe District and the province at large.