June 2025.

To address food insecurity and promote self-sufficiency, the Loeriesfontein community has launched a Household Food Garden Pilot Project. This transformative community-based initiative, funded by Loeriesfontein and Khobab Wind Farms, is equipping 27 local residents with the skills and resources to grow their own nutritious food while gaining valuable agri-entrepreneurship training.

The programme is designed to address the growing challenge of food access in Loeriesfontein, where fresh produce has long been costly and reliant on external sources. By encouraging residents to cultivate their own backyard gardens, this pilot project helps build long-term food resilience within the community.

“We recognised a need to go beyond traditional food assistance and instead provide a long-lasting solution that fosters independence, skills development, and improved food access. Through the development of practical, transferable skills, the project hopes to foster a more resilient and self-sufficient community that embraces home-grown solutions,” said Vanessa Fredericks, Economic Development Manager for Loeriesfontein and Khobab Wind Farms.

Launched in September 2024, the initiative kicked off with a two-week training programme. Participants received both theoretical and hands-on training in agri-entrepreneurship, covering essential topics such as soil preparation, garden planning, organic fertiliser production, pest control, and sustainable planting techniques. The programme also emphasised mentorship and community-driven production to ensure participants can apply what they’ve learned in real-world settings.

Each of the 27 participants were selected on a first-come, first-served basis, following an overwhelming response from community members. In addition to training, beneficiaries were equipped with gardening tools, materials, and supplies to help them launch and maintain their home gardens successfully.

“The programme has created meaningful opportunities for us residents with a passion for gardening to deepen our knowledge and enjoy the rewards of growing our own food. With continued support and training, this initiative can grow to benefit the larger community, empowering more people to use their land effectively and build a reliable source of income,” said Hildon Philander, a programme beneficiary.