A community food garden at the Zicabangeleni Self Help Association for the Physically Disabled (ZISHAP) in Katlehong received a major boost on July 18 after 4500 vegetable seedlings were planted through a partnership between The Kitchen Alchemist (Pty) Ltd, sponsors, volunteers and the ZISHAP community.

The initiative aims to strengthen food security, sustainability and environmental stewardship by expanding the existing garden with spinach, onions, beetroot and lettuce. Once harvested, the vegetables will provide a steady supply of fresh produce while supporting long-term food security for the community.

For many years, ZISHAP has supported people living with disabilities in Katlehong through skills development, community programmes and initiatives that promote greater independence and inclusion.

The food garden forms part of this vision by encouraging sustainable food production, practical gardening skills and shared responsibility.

Founder and director of The Kitchen Alchemist, Katleho Mosese, said the Mandela Day project reflects the organisation’s mission of promoting health and sustainability through plants.

“The Kitchen Alchemist is built on the belief that plants are central to both health and sustainability.

Whether we are documenting South Africa’s indigenous medicinal plants or helping establish community food gardens, our goal is to encourage people to reconnect with plants, strengthen food security and preserve the knowledge that has sustained our communities for generations,” said Mosese.

Founded in Alberton, The Kitchen Alchemist focuses on researching and documenting South Africa’s indigenous medicinal plants while promoting environmental stewardship, sustainable living and the preservation of Indigenous Knowledge Systems.

Supporting community food gardens is a natural extension of this work, recognising the important role both food and medicinal plants play in building healthier communities.

The organisation thanked Seamoss Africa for sponsoring 2 000 seedlings and assisting with refreshments for volunteers.

Evergrow Seedlings Soweto was also recognised for supplying the seedlings and donating an additional 500 kale seedlings to increase the impact of the initiative.

The Kitchen Alchemist also expressed its appreciation to every volunteer, donor and the ZISHAP community for their support and commitment to making the project a success.

The organisation believes community food gardens not only provide fresh vegetables but also strengthen local food systems, improve access to nutritious food and create opportunities for people to share valuable gardening skills across generations.

Although Mandela Day is celebrated once a year, the organisers hope this garden will continue benefiting the community for years to come, serving as a lasting reminder that meaningful change grows through partnership, shared responsibility and continued action.