To help the grow of the Edamame Development Programme (EDP), the eThekwini Municipality will host the first Edamame Agribusiness and Food Nutrition Seminar on Friday, 22 January 2016 at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.
Edamame is a prime protein soya-bean known for its major health benefits in reducing the likelihood of a range of diseases, including breast and prostate cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes, kidney problems, gallstones and high blood pressure. The highest intake per capita of this type of soya beans results in greater life expectancy.
The aim of the seminar is to inform decision makers in business, government, civil society and academia about Edamame’s enormous value for health, agriculture, food security, the environment and economy. The seminar will also highlight the possibilities of creating a new industry and associated jobs through the programme.
The ground-breaking initiative is a joint venture between the Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, eThekwini Municipality, Edamame Development Programme and The Jobs Fund. The venture is an effort by all stakeholders to eradicate the persisting socio-economic threats and promote healthy living.
Deputy Mayor and Chairperson of Economic Development and Planning Committee Nomvuzo Shabalala said the City needs key stakeholders to support this initiative which could be the solution to the current economic and food security issues. She added that more than 4432 employment opportunities will be created with more than 3625 people to be trained.
This development programme has produced about 81 large scale emerging farmers who are cultivating more than 2hectar (Ha) land of Edamame.
EDP Programme Manager Walter Coughlan said: “This initiative is intended to intensify the awareness for potential opportunities of Edamame in South Africa to ensure the significant growth in output and market supply as it was not grown locally before.”
International experts will be in attendance to share their expertise and highlight the significance of the product both on the production and market value.
