On 25 April 2024, the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDoA) celebrated a significant milestone as the Agri-Processing Hub, situated at Elsenburg, attains the prestigious Food Safety System Certification (FSSC) 22000 accreditation. This international recognition solidifies the facility’s unwavering dedication to ensuring food safety excellence.
Since its inception, the Agri-Processing Hub has been steadfast in its mission to empower young entrepreneurs and producers by facilitating their ability to process products or access funding schemes for business expansion. From advancements in meat processing technology to innovations in fruit and vegetable processing, the facility serves as the cornerstone for the development and production of diverse agricultural products across the Western Cape, ensuring strict adherence to food safety standards throughout the process.
The attainment of the FSSC 22000 certification is a monumental achievement for the agri-processing facility and the team that ensures its smooth operation. This certification provides a structured framework for effectively managing food safety and product quality throughout the supply chain. By meeting the stringent requirements of this international standard, the facility further cements its pivotal role in the Western Cape’s agri-processing sector, catering to both local and global standards.
Dr Ilse Trautmann, Deputy Director-General: Agricultural Research and Regulatory Services, stated, “The WCDoA operates with a focus on quality, commitment, and continuous improvement of our services and training. With only 32 000 institutions worldwide achieving FSSC 22000 certification, we take pride in being part of this esteemed list.”
Acting Head of Department, Darryl Jacobs, emphasized the significance of the certification, saying, “As South Africa commemorates the 30th anniversary of democracy, food insecurity remains a pressing issue. This certification reaffirms WCDoA’s commitment to enhancing food safety and security for our most vulnerable communities.”
Bongiswa Matoti, Programme Manager: Agricultural Economic Services, added: “Securing an FSSC accreditation sets a precedent for government entities, assuring residents that when they engage with WCDoA, they are accessing top-tier services. This accreditation journey has been enlightening, empowering us to guide clients through similar endeavours.”
Terri-Lee Kammies, Lead Auditor and Certification Body Manager at QSCERT-SA, applauded WCDoA’s achievement, highlighting the rigorous process they underwent to obtain this internationally recognized food safety certification.
It’s important to note that this certification is valid for three years, necessitating continued adherence to high standards. Ms Matoti concluded, “Being an accountable provincial government, the Western Cape Government is committed to maintaining its standards and will prepare to undergo this rigorous process again.”
The WCDoA extends its heartfelt commendation to all staff members involved in this remarkable achievement. Their dedication and commitment have been pivotal in making this certification a success, underscoring the department’s unwavering commitment to effective food safety management systems, instilling confidence in consumers and stakeholders alike.
Click link to view certification: https://shorturl.at/ahBEG
Click link to read about the Agri-Processing Support Unit: https://rb.gy/lbkcwa
Mr Maliviwe Makeleni, Senior Economist, Dr Ilse Trautmann, Deputy Director-General: Agricultural Research and Regulatory Services, Mr Darryl Jacobs, Acting Head of Department, Terri-Lee Kammies, Lead Auditor and Certification Body Manager at QSCERT-SA, Londiwe Thabethe, Head of Marketing and AgriBusiness, Ms Bongiswa Matoti, Programme Manager: Agricultural Economic Services and Mr Zaa-id Rinquest, Food Scientist.
Media Enquiries
Mary James
Head of Communication
Cell: 084 817 2376
Email: Mary.James@westerncape.gov.za
