Shoprite and Checkers supermarkets across South Africa have once again taken a stand in supporting community food gardens by hosting over 60 gardens for Market Day.
This initiative not only provides these gardens with a platform to sell their fresh produce directly to the public but also gives them the much-needed exposure to a large customer base.
The impact of Market Day was evident as gardeners like Sindiswa Maguma from Intambanana Farming and Multipurpose Coop in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape, experienced a high demand for their produce, with their first batch selling out in just an hour.
“The demand was so high that we had to bring more produce to keep up. Our garden will continue participating in future Market Day events, as it gives us the chance to reach more customers and generate more income, helping us grow sustainably,” Sindiswa shared.
According to the newly published South African Food Security Index 2024, food security is at its lowest levels in a decade, with one in ten households experiencing child hunger.
Market Day not only boosts the income of community food gardeners but also provides them with valuable retail experience.
It also serves as a platform for these gardeners to connect with each other and engage with customers, as Pastor Gabriel Kjungu from Jesus in Action’s Our Garden in Brackenfell, Western Cape, highlighted.
“Seeing such a positive response reaffirms the impact our garden has had over the past two years. Every year, Market Day continues to be a highlight for us, not only because it showcases the fruits of our hard work but also because it strengthens our connection with the local community, bringing us all together in support of sustainable homegrown produce,” Pastor Gabriel shared.
Participants in Market Day form part of the over 248 community food gardens supported by Shoprite and Checkers throughout Southern Africa, impacting the lives of over 80,000 people since 2015.
These gardens not only provide access to nutritious fresh produce but also offer training and support to sustain their efforts, cultivating stronger and more resilient communities.
As food security remains a pressing concern in South Africa, initiatives like Market Day play a crucial role in providing access to affordable and nutritious food.
Gardeners from South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, and Namibia showcased their commitment to this cause during Market Day, embodying the retailers’ dedication to supporting communities and food gardens.
In a time where food security is at its lowest levels in a decade, initiatives like Market Day serve as a beacon of hope for communities in need.
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