A practical agricultural support initiative is helping 95 beneficiaries in Orange Farm strengthen backyard food gardens and improve household food security.
Through support from the Department of Agriculture, participants in the Intouch Youth Development and Community Justice programme received essential gardening tools and inputs on 9 February. The packages included two bags of manure, a rake, watering can, fork, spade, hoe and seeds.
According to Ronald Kapaso of Intouch Youth Development , the goal is long-term empowerment, rather than providing once-off food parcels, the initiative focuses on equipping families with tools to grow their own food sustainably.
He said: “We believe real change begins in our own backyards. When families are equipped with the right tools and knowledge, they can feed themselves with dignity and build sustainable livelihoods.”
With rising food prices placing pressure on households, backyard food gardens are becoming an increasingly important solution. By supplying both tools and training in organic farming practices, the programme aims to improve soil health, protect the environment and promote long-term sustainability. Participants are encouraged to grow vegetables for home consumption and, where possible, generate small income from surplus produce.
Community members report that access to basic equipment has made gardening more manageable and productive. For many, the initiative has restored confidence and a renewed sense of purpose.
A beneficiary, Rachel Mabaso from Ext 4, Orange Farm said: “I am here to collect gardening materials. I would like to thank Intouch for providing us with these tools. I will start planting so that we can chase away hunger and encourage others to grow their own food, so that we do not face food shortages. Thank you very much.”
Another resident, Vuyiswa Mfobo said: “We are here at Intouch today, Old Multipurpose, because we were invited by Gauteng Agriculture to receive our parcels for planting and doing the garden. We truly appreciate their love and the service we received-thank you.”
Intouch Youth Development and Community Justice says it remains committed to expanding practical skills training and encouraging more residents to participate. Residents interested in visiting the farm, learning organic farming skills, or joining the programme are encouraged to contact Intouch directly.
