Old Mutual and the Nelson Mandela Foundation partner to establish food gardens at ten Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres in South Africa, promoting food security, education, and sustainability for communities in need.
Limpopo, South Africa (09 September 2023) – In a world that often seems troubled by challenges and crises, there are still beacons of hope and positivity that shine brightly. One such beacon has emerged as Old Mutual partners with the Nelson Mandela Foundation to establish food gardens at ten Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres across South Africa.
This initiative is part of the Nelson Mandela Foundation’s Mandela Day campaign, focusing on Climate, Food, and Solidarity.
The importance of this initiative cannot be overstated, especially when considering the profound impact it will have on communities facing social challenges, poverty, and inequality. By addressing these issues through the cultivation of food gardens, Old Mutual and the Nelson Mandela Foundation are working hand in hand to create a more sustainable and resilient future for South Africa’s children.
Gushwell Brooks, Head of Mandela Day and Public Outreach at the Nelson Mandela Foundation expressed the essence of this partnership when he stated, “Through this partnership, we aim to take action against the climate crisis and create food-resilient environments.”
It’s a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela and his commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability.
Khotso Tsotsotso, Acting Head of the Old Mutual Foundation, also emphasized the broader impact of this initiative on the communities they serve.
He noted, “The reality is that communities that we operate in still face many social challenges that need to be overcome before they can begin to prosper economically.”
Recognizing that hunger, inadequate healthcare, education, and other challenges hinder progress, Old Mutual is dedicated to addressing these issues head-on.
The heart of this initiative lies in the establishment of food gardens at ECD centres. These gardens will not only provide essential nutrition to children but will also empower the centres to create balanced, nutritious meals from the very ground they occupy. The surplus produce generated from these gardens will not go to waste; it presents a unique opportunity for ECD centres to generate additional income by selling the excess to surrounding communities.
Furthermore, these food gardens offer children the invaluable chance to learn about the cultivation of nutritious, organic food in an environmentally friendly manner. This hands-on experience not only promotes healthy eating habits but also fosters a deeper connection to the environment, instilling important values for future generations.
The launch of this heartwarming initiative began with the unveiling of three food gardens in the Greater Tzaneen Local Municipality in the Limpopo Province. The first two gardens were inaugurated at Jackson Nhlangwani Day Care Centre and Lunghile Day Care Centre on August 24, 2023, followed by Thole Day Care Centre on August 25, 2023.
The remaining seven gardens are set to be revealed in September 2023, bringing the benefits of food security, education, and sustainability to even more communities.
Khotso Tsotsotso succinctly captured the spirit of this endeavour by stating, “We’re collaborating on projects like these to positively influence learning outcomes by focusing on literacy and numeracy, addressing resource challenges, and focusing on creating sustainable environments where our children can thrive.”
This partnership between Old Mutual and the Nelson Mandela Foundation is a powerful example of what can be achieved when organizations join forces to create meaningful change.
In a world that often seems beset by challenges, initiatives like these remind us that there is still goodness and hope. The planting of food gardens at ECD centres not only nourishes bodies but also nurtures the promise of a brighter, more sustainable future for South Africa’s children. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela and the power of collaboration to create positive change in our communities.
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