In KwaZulu-Natal and Tshwane, school gardens continue to be maintained during the December holidays through community efforts and dedicated personnel, ensuring they support child nutrition and education year-round.
School gardens in South Africa play a vital role in child nutrition and education, but their maintenance during the holiday season varies by region. In KwaZulu-Natal, Nonhlanhla Joye, known as Ma Joye and founder of Umgibe Farming Organics and Training Institute, has influenced over 500 school gardens since 2018 through the Ithuba Seedpreneurs School Garden initiative.
The program relies on a network of ambassadors and champions, including the first Seedpreneur, Thabane Ngubani of Ithuba Agribusiness, who trains pupils. Older students pass responsibilities to younger ones, fostering accountability from an early age. Planning occurs from January to October, with no growth expected in December, allowing a break before restarting in January.
Schools host market days where produce like cabbages and spinach is sold, often back to the institution for meals. The annual Ithuba Awards in September and October recognize top gardens based on sales and community feeding. Winners include Isibonelo Creche in early-childhood development, Nhlabane Primary School in primaries, and Gratton School in high schools.
Ma Joye emphasized, “These kids – we cannot build the future for them, no matter how much we love them – but we can build the youth for the future.” Sponsors in Richards Bay provide water tanks and tools, though fencing remains a need.
In Tshwane, Mapenane Kgatitsoe of Siyakhana Growth and Development NPO oversees nutrition guidance. Groundsmen maintain gardens during holidays, as at Kgabo Primary School where the principal provides meals and compensation. Some gardens suffer neglect, requiring restarts in February, with planting delayed to March or April.
Holidays disrupt cycles, but active schools grow leafy greens and tomatoes, selling or donating to communities, teachers, and needy learners. Siyakhana partnered with the University of Johannesburg, handing over gardens in July 2024 after Exxaro funding ended. The Department of Education now involves principals via workshops under the “Leading Education for Sustainable Futures” program.
Post-handover, Philena Primary expanded with government and Pick n Pay support, highlighting gardens' broader benefits for development.