Changing Society, One Garden At A Time

According to the United Nations World Food Program (UNWFP), hunger kills more people in Africa than Aids, malaria and TB combined.

That’s a terrifying statistic, and one that strikes close to home, particularly after the recent riots when all of us were forced to take a harder look at food security. We were also able, if only for a moment, to put ourselves into the shoes of those less fortunate than ourselves, who don’t know where their next meal is coming from, or when. Poverty, hunger and unemployment are a devastating trio of social challenges that need to be overcome.

Aquacraft, one of South Africa’s leading manufacturers of gardening equipment, has taken up the challenge, committing to play its part in helping where it can. As a start, Aquacraft has partnered with Johannesburg-based NGO Siyakhana on the development of an organic vegetable garden that supplies a range of fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs to vulnerable communities in the city.

“If we want these problems facing our society to change, we need to take action,” says Aquacraft’s marketing manager, Candice Knipe-Tlhotlhalemajoe.

This garden is a wonderful, practical model that can be sustainably built on, and so a portion of all Aquacraft sales will go towards the expansion of urban vegetable gardens across the country, which will increase access to fresh food source and create a level of food security for impoverished communities.

“Aquacraft is deeply committed to facilitating economic development and sees food garden initiatives such as Siyakhana playing a crucial role in providing both work and food in impoverished communities.”

“We’re encouraging community groups across the country to explore the establishment of their own food gardens, with our support where possible.”

“We’re also encouraging enthusiastic gardeners and communities alike to see open spaces as an opportunity to plant organic vegetables, fruits and herbs, be it in their back yards, in planter boxes on their balconies or alongside pathways.

“Through this initiative, we’re giving consumers an opportunity to use their purchasing power to support social change. No impact is too small.”