For over 13 years, the Dikonyana Community Centre in Mangaung’s Namibia Square has been a beacon of hope, using agriculture to fight hunger and empower local youth. Currently feeding around 130 people each week, the garden initiative has become a vital support system for many families in the area.
The project’s founder and director, 60-year-old Selina Majafi, now hopes to expand its impact. She is appealing for support to secure a larger piece of land and a dedicated building to better serve the growing number of beneficiaries. “Everything is currently run from my home, and the space is just too small,” said Majafi. “The number of people in need is growing daily. We need a proper yard to expand the garden and a building where the children and community members can gather and eat.”
The garden is more than just a source of food; it’s a platform for skills development and empowerment. Thanks to a partnership with retail giant Shoprite, Majafi now sells her produce at their outlet at Twin City Mall. “Shoprite has helped me immensely,” she said. “They also trained me in organic farming, and I’ve passed those skills on to the young people who help in the garden.”
Despite the challenges, Majafi remains hopeful and committed to her mission. “I want to continue making a difference. But to do so, I need help to secure a plot where we can grow more food and a space where people can sit and eat with dignity,” she concluded.
Clement Matroos
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