Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has received support from retail giant Shoprite to expand its Student Gardening Project through a partnership with Food & Trees for Africa (FTFA), a move aimed at strengthening food security and empowering students and surrounding communities.
The partnership will see the university establish and develop a sustainable community food garden at its campus, with Shoprite providing support through FTFA, its implementing partner. The initiative forms part of Shoprite’s broader efforts to combat hunger and promote sustainable food production across South Africa.
Under the agreement, the SMU Student Gardening Project will receive training, resources, equipment and technical support to develop a flourishing permaculture garden that is expected to serve as both a source of food and a centre for learning and community engagement.
A Shoprite representative, Msizi Hlongwane, said the project aligns with the retailer’s long-standing commitment to addressing food insecurity. “As part of our commitment to fight hunger, the Shoprite Group partners with a number of community food gardens to take them from small gardens to flourishing, sustainable food sources. This is one of the ways in which we Act for Change,” the representative said.
The project is being spearheaded by SMU horticulturist Mpho Mmako, who will serve as the primary contact person and coordinator for the initiative.
According to the agreement, all participants in the Student Gardening Project will undergo training and contribute their time voluntarily to ensure the long-term sustainability of the garden. Any income generated from the sale of produce will be reinvested in the project to support reconstruction, restocking, equipment purchases, and further training opportunities.
Mmako said the initiative had the potential to create meaningful change beyond the university campus. “Together we’re helping to bring about change, one food garden at a time,” he said.
Beyond food production, the project seeks to position the SMU garden as a demonstration site that can inspire and support similar initiatives in neighbouring communities. The university has also committed to hosting project events, inviting schools and community organisations to visit the garden and offering permaculture training opportunities.
FTFA will oversee the management of funds provided by Shoprite and will be responsible for implementing the project in accordance with the approved proposal and budget. The organisation will also design and implement the garden, procure materials and equipment, provide educational resources and facilitate a series of workshops and training sessions.
As part of its responsibilities, FTFA will monitor and evaluate the project throughout its implementation and provide regular progress reports to Shoprite.
The university, in turn, will provide written reports, photographs and feedback to demonstrate the project’s impact and raise awareness of food security interventions in South Africa.
The project is scheduled to commence in July 2026, following the signing of the agreement, and will run until August 2026. Shoprite and FTFA will also be invited to attend the official launch of the garden and may visit the site at any time during the implementation period.
The partnership is expected to make a meaningful contribution to food security, environmental sustainability and community development while equipping students with practical agricultural skills and experience.
Through this collaboration, SMU joins a growing network of community food gardens supported by Shoprite and Food & Trees for Africa, highlighting the importance of partnerships in addressing hunger and creating sustainable livelihoods across the country.
By Tumelo Moila
