A group of mamas and gogos with a passion for growing their own produce have been greatly supported by FoodForward SA’s Food Gardens Connect initiative, which has provided them with a stable market to sell their vegetables and earn a livelihood.
Khayelitsha, South Africa (10 April 2025) – “We no longer worry about where to sell our vegetables” – these are the words of a hardworking mama who is at ease knowing the long hours spent in a community garden will pay off and help her, and many others, earn an income while also addressing food insecurity.
At Sinethemba Community Organisation in Khayelitsha, Nolitha Ndalase is part of a vibrant group that has long been passionate about growing food to feed its own; however, the road to sustainability hasn’t always been straightforward.
But thanks to involvement with FoodForward SA’s Food Gardens Connect (FGC) initiative, this is no longer the case.
According to FoodForward SA, this community faced uncertainty about where to sell their surplus vegetables, often relying on fluctuating community sales. But since joining the FGC programme, their situation has been transformed—bringing not just stability, but also income opportunities.
“Since joining Food Gardens Connect, we know that FoodForward-SA will buy our produce,” says Nolitha.
Whenever their vegetables are ready for harvest, Sinethemba informs FFSA Community Development Officer, Likopo Sehlabo, who, during his site visits, collects and records the produce, ensuring accurate documentation of the quantity and value of each batch.
“FoodForward-SA is more than just our market; they are our bank! They keep track of what we supply, ensuring that every effort we put into our garden pays off,” Nolitha adds.
More than just a partnership, the mutually beneficial relationship between Sinethemba and FoodForward has generated a stable income stream for a dedicated community, created growth opportunities, and advanced the nonprofit organisation’s mission of ensuring food security.
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