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Creating sustainable livelihoods for resettled communities

A 'net house' at the Groenfontein Veggies farming project in Ga-Pila, Limpopo

The R9,6 million Groenfontein Veggies farming project in Ga-Pila, Limpopo, was officially launched in November 2009. The farm, a yardstick for future farming initiatives in the country, is a joint project between the Sterkfontein community, Anglo American Platinum Limited (Amplats)'s Mogalakwena Mine and GENIS Consultants.

The project benefits the community by providing employment for 200 people and supplies fresh produce such as tomatoes, peppers, beans, musk melons, sweet potatoes, lettuce, cabbages, beetroot and herbs.

The project uses 'net houses' in which to grow the produce. Net farming is an effective method, yielding up to 400 tonnes per hectare compared with 150 tonnes on a conventional farm. Vegetables are organically produced as chemicals are not required to control pests or stimulate growth.

Produce is sold to local retailers, wholesalers and fresh produce markets, while herbs are exported to eastern Europe.  Benefits for the local community include:

• Farm employee and community ownership
• Food security
• Formal training in human resources, agriculture, marketing, quality control and first aid
• Career planning for employees
• A school-feeding programme for local orphans
• The development of food gardens