Mpumalanga Farmers Get New Citrus Training Boost for Better Yields and Stronger Market Access

The Mpumalanga department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs Farmer Support in Ehlanzeni District worked with the Citrus Growers Association to run a two day information sharing session focused on citrus production. The goal was clear. Help farmers understand how to grow citrus that meets market standards and prepare them for long term success.

The programme included a field visit to the Santeeko Tea project outside Umjindi. The project planted thousands of citrus trees on 194 hectares in March and April this year. The visit gave farmers and support teams a chance to study young orchards. They looked at spacing, irrigation layout, soil condition and early growth trends. They also reviewed basic tasks that influence survival rates during the first year.

The formal session covered crop protection. Specialists shared practical guidance on how to prevent Citrus Black Spot, Alternaria Black Spot and False Coding Moth. These problems reduce yield and block access to export markets. Presenters broke down symptoms, monitoring methods and treatment schedules. They underlined the need for routine scouting, correct spray timing and strict orchard hygiene. Farmers received examples of real case data from farms that improved pack out rates through early intervention.

Santeeko currently has 39 EPWPs who manage daily orchard work. They prune young trees, adjust irrigation emitters, clear weeds and assist with pest monitoring. Many are new to citrus production. The training helped them understand why each task matters. They learned how each decision affects fruit quality, shelf life and market access.

The session also addressed market needs. Experts explained size profiles, quality grades and the volume demands of local and export buyers. Farmers learned how to plan production that matches these requirements. They reviewed packhouse expectations and the cost impact of defects that come from poor orchard management. The aim was to help farmers reduce losses and increase income through better planning.

Participants left with practical steps. Improve scouting routines. Strengthen nutrient management. Align spray programmes with disease risk periods. Apply careful water management during the early stages of fruit set. Adopt record keeping systems that support traceability and compliance.

The partnership showed a growing commitment to strengthen the citrus sector in Mpumalanga. The Ehlanzeni Farmer Support teams will continue supporting growers as orchards develop. The Citrus Growers Association will maintain technical guidance to improve standards. Many participants said the training boosted their confidence and prepared them to manage citrus in a more informed way.

The region expects steady growth in citrus production over the next few years. Training sessions like this give farmers the knowledge they need to reach that potential.