Jozi skies go green

The City of Johannesburg’s Social Development department has initiated programs such as communal gardens, rooftop gardens, aquaponic projects, food empowerment zones and agri- resource centres with the intention to promote sustainable food production practices.
“It is important that we continue to seek solutions that will help us eradicate poverty amongst our communities. The statistics of those who go to bed hungry remains a concern. As the City of Joburg we have a dedicated Food Resilience Unit that assists our most indigent communities to grow their own food. The more people we empower to grow their own food in their small back yards and in communal land, we will be able to feed more people and contribute to the economy of the City,” said Phalatse.
Joburg Market CEO, Ayanda Kenana, says farmers need to organize themselves and begin to sell their produce beyond their communities through the Joburg Market. He shared statistics provided by Joburg Market which revealed an imbalance in the agriculture industry, indicating that Africans shared about 10% of the agriculture sector.
“It is important that we work together to change the face of agriculture in this country and we can only achieve the required results if we understand and commit to what we are doing. Joburg Market has the means to assist and build your capacity to grow your communal farms. Joburg Market trades across our neighbouring countries and its market reach is what you need to make success of your urban farms,” said Kenana.