For farmers, growers and food processing businesses, one of the many exciting features of the planned Vaal Aerotropolis is a vast high-tech AgriZone, where best-practice agricultural processes will be harnessed within one of the largest and most advanced facilities of its kind on the continent.
The AgriZone will include a sprawling 48 hectares of climate-controlled growing area and greenhouses, and an integrated perishable supply chain where produce will move into the cold chain within minutes of cutting. This will assure optimal freshness, reduce transport costs, and enhance sustainability.
The AgriZone will also host a state-of-the-art tissue culture facility, where new plant breeds will be developed and existing plant breeds will be produced under license. Tissue culture is a technique that rapidly replicates plants with desirable qualities – such as disease and pest resistance. The AgriZone will also serve as a hub for equipment hire, processing, packaging, logistics and training.
Taking advantage of its close proximity to the trade zone, cargo facilities and airport, the AgriZone will also feature the first purpose-built air platform in Africa for the export of live animals.
Nearby, supportive facilities such as storage, insurance, transportation, and distribution of food and agricultural products can be accommodated.
It is expected that the Vaal Aerotropolis and its dedicated AgriZone will boost agricultural exports into Africa and abroad, cutting down the costs, time and carbon emissions involved in transporting livestock and produce long distances to market.
The presence of a pioneering AgriZone within Sedibeng has the potential to revitalise local agriculture and generate new agro-processing and food businesses. For local farmers, agro-processing firms and food manufacturers, its presence may pave the way to direct trade with broader local and foreign markets, boosting profitability and increasing agricultural employment. Local tissue culture innovation and production could open doors to growing lucrative new crops or improving food security in the region.
Image by Freepik
