By Nelisiwe Khusi and Simthandile Ponti
We recently visited several backyard garden farmers in Slangrivier and Riversdale who have benefited from our Smallholder Farmers Programme. Through this programme, backyard vegetable garden farmers have received support with seedlings, seeds, water tanks, and training in sustainable gardening practices.
GCBR’s Smallholder Farmers Programme forms part of the organisations broader commitment to supporting sustainable livelihoods, environmental stewardship, and community resilience. By combining practical support, capacity building, and research, the programme seeks to empower local communities to produce food sustainably while adapting to environmental challenges.
Last season presented significant challenges for many farmers. Prolonged drought conditions and water restrictions made it difficult to establish and maintain productive gardens, impacting both crop yields and household food production. However, following the recent rains, which brought much-needed relief to the area, and the distribution of additional seeds, we conducted monitoring visits to assess progress and identify any ongoing challenges.
One of the highlights of the visits was seeing the positive impact of the recent rainfall on many of the gardens. Farmers were growing a variety of vegetables, including kale, carrots, beetroot, radishes, cabbage, and beans. The gardens showed encouraging signs of recovery, demonstrating the resilience and determination of the participating farmers.
What was particularly inspiring was witnessing the farmers’ creativity and dedication. Despite having only small backyard spaces available, many have transformed them into productive, thriving food gardens. Through careful planning, innovative use of limited space, and the production of their own seedlings, farmers are showing that even small plots of land can make a meaningful contribution to household food security and sustainable livelihoods.
Backyard gardens play an important role in food security within communities. They provide households with access to fresh and nutritious vegetables, help reduce food expenses, and create opportunities for families to become more self-sufficient. In a region increasingly affected by climate variability, local food production also contributes to building community resilience. To encourage learning and ongoing support, the farmers have created WhatsApp groups where they share their progress, exchange ideas, discuss challenges, and learn from one another
While the recent rains have brought many benefits, some challenges remain. One of the key challenges identified since the start of the programme has been the impact of snails and slugs on crops, especially during the early stages of crop establishment. These pests can cause significant damage and affect overall yields. To help address this issue, Simthandile, our Smallholder Farmer Programme Manager and MSc student, will be conducting research into a practical, sustainable, and cost-effective pest management strategy that can assist local farmers in protecting their crops against snails and slugs.
The aim is to empower farmers to sustain their gardens independently while continuing to learn and adapt over time. The resilience and commitment already demonstrated by the farmers highlight the value of investment in smallholder farming and food production systems, and we look forward to seeing how these gardens continue to grow and support household food security.
