Farmers and small traders operating around the Farmer Training Centre in the North West province have faced challenges due to poor road conditions that led to an increase in transport costs and limited access to markets.
As the country marks Logistics Month, SMEs in the North West province are welcoming the newly upgraded Road Z431, which leads to the Kgora Farmer Training Centre.
The development, officially handed over by the North West Department of Public Works and Roads (DPWR) in partnership with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD), is expected to transform the province’s agricultural logistics network and bring tangible benefits to local businesses.
The completion of Road Z431 now promises to ease the movement of goods, services, and people, giving a lifeline to SMEs that depend on reliable infrastructure to sustain their operations.
DARD MEC Madoda Sambatha said good roads are the backbone of agricultural growth and rural economic inclusion.
“When we talk about developing the agricultural economy, we must start with accessibility,” he said. “Better roads connect farmers to markets, training centres, and suppliers creating opportunities for small businesses to thrive.”
Local entrepreneurs like Kelebogile Modise, who runs a small agricultural input supply business, Modise Enterprise Pty Ltd near the Kgora Farmer Training Centre, the new road brings both relief and hope.
“Before, it took me almost two hours to deliver fertiliser to farmers because the old road was full of potholes,” Modise explained. “Now I can make two or three trips a day, which means I can serve more clients and reduce my fuel expenses. This road is good for business.”
Modise added that improved access to Kgora will also help more emerging farmers attend training sessions, leading to increased demand for agricultural supplies and support services provided by local SMMEs.
Another local business owner, David Molelwa, who operates a transport company, Molelwa Logistics Pty Ltd, that services nearby villages, said the road upgrade has already begun to change his operations.
“My vehicles used to break down often because of the bad road. Maintenance costs were too high. With this upgrade, I can reach clients faster and safely,” Molelwa said. “The new road will also encourage more investment in the area because companies can now move goods without delay.”
The upgraded road forms part of a broader infrastructure plan aimed at promoting rural development and agricultural growth. The Kgora route is particularly significant because it links training facilities, farms, and agricultural colleges, including Taung Agricultural College and Potchefstroom College of Agriculture, to the wider provincial logistics network.
excel@vutivibusiness.co.za
