In the heart of Johannesburg, Joburg Market is more than just a marketplace; it's a vital hub nourishing families and fostering job creation. With its vibrant atmosphere and rich history, the market sustains thousands of households while providing opportunities for those who work within its walls.
Meet Zeblon Ntameni Nedzanani, a 42-year-old Market Agent and director of the Metro Market Agency, the crucial link between farmers and buyers at the market. Nedzanani's journey is deeply intertwined with the agency, founded by his father in the 1980s.
Since joining the market floor in 2004 as a Market Agent for the first black-owned market agency, Nedzanani has been dedicated to improving food access and security while creating employment opportunities and upholding his father's legacy. Despite fierce competition among market agents, Nedzanani's determination has enabled him to flourish.
Farmers choose their preferred market agent to sell their fresh produce on their behalf. The agents earn a commission based on the gross value of the produce sold. Market agents have extensive knowledge of fresh produce that is high demand during different seasons, as well as market influences and market fluctuations, and are therefore able to advise farmers on what sells best, what is in demand, when and why.
“Competition among market agents was, and still is, intense,” Nedzanani recalls. “But it's not solely about transactions; it's about the people – the families we feed, the lives we touch.”
For Nedzanani, overcoming daily challenges is rewarding, as his efforts directly impact people's lives. When his father passed away in 2021, the agency's future was uncertain. However, his strong communication and negotiation skills, combined with loyal relationships with buyers and farmers, ensured the business not only survived but thrived.
"Loyalty is paramount in this industry. The agency is expanding and now employs over 10 people in various roles," Nedzanani says.
Joburg Market is more than a commercial space; it's a cornerstone of South Africa's food security. This bustling hub is where traders converge to provide sustenance for the nation. Nedzanani, at the heart of it all, is a guardian of abundance and hope.
Written by Busisiwe Moagi
05/08/2024
To stay informed about the latest developments in the City, connect with us on:
Facebook: [City of Joburg] (https://www.facebook.com/CityofJoburg)
Instagram: [@CityofJoburg] (https://www.instagram.com/CityofJoburg)
TikTok: [@CityofJoburg] (https://www.tiktok.com/@CityofJoburg)
LinkedIn: [City of Johannesburg] (https://www.linkedin.com/company/city-of-johannesburg)
YouTube: [City of Johannesburg] (https://www.youtube.com/@CityOfJoburgZA/videos)
Joburg Pulse Radio: [Listen Now] (https://s3.radio.co/s349cd1429/listen)
