Assessing the Potential Economic Viability of Mango Value Addition in the Waterberg District, Limpopo Province

Mantlo Richard Ngwepe and Humphrey Lephethe Motsepe
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Mantlo Richard Ngwepe: Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (Towoomba Research Centre), Limpopo, South Africa
Humphrey Lephethe Motsepe: University of Venda, South Africa Mantlo Richard Ngwepe, Thohoyandou, Limpopo, South Africa

Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development Studies, 2026, issue 1, 230-246

Abstract: This study explores the potential economic viability of transforming mango production into a sustainable and profitable agro-processing business in the Waterberg District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. Although Limpopo is one of the country’s leading mango producing regions, especially Mopani and Vhembe District, a significant share of output is sold as fresh fruit with limited local value addition. The study adopts a case study design supported by secondary data analysis and a structured review of recent agricultural and agro-processing literature. Cost structures, market trends, and value chain opportunities are examined to determine the feasibility of processing mangoes into dried fruit, juice, pulp, and related products. Findings indicate that value addition enhances gross margins, improves price stability, and reduces post-harvest losses. However, constraints related to infrastructure, energy reliability, compliance costs, and market access remain significant. The results suggest that with coordinated institutional support and appropriate scale, mango processing in Waterberg can contribute to rural employment, enterprise development, and regional economic diversification. The study offers practical recommendations for producers, cooperatives, and policymakers seeking to expand agro processing in the district.

Keywords: Mango value chain; Agro-processing; Rural development; Limpopo agriculture; Smallholder enterprise (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:ddj:ejards:y:2026:i:1:p:230-246

DOI: 10.35219/jards.2026.1.15

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