Killarney residents sow seeds of hope

Online headline: Killarney residents sow seeds of hope with public vegetable gardens
Social media teaser: Local residents are leading a grassroots gardening movement that transforms empty spaces into thriving sources of food for the hungry.

Naziya Davids-Easthorpe
naziyade@caxton.co.za

In the heart of Killarney, a unique and inspiring movement is taking root. What began as a modest attempt to combat food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic has blossomed into a flourishing initiative: Growing vegetable gardens in public and communal spaces to feed the hungry. This effort, now centred around Killarney Park, is making waves for its generosity and community spirit.

A few determined residents, who saw potential in the unused spaces around them, sparked the idea. From pavements to apartment complexes, vegetable gardens began sprouting across the neighbourhood, and soon the idea expanded to Killarney Park. Wayne Ford, chairperson of the New Killarney-Riviera Association (NKRA), is a passionate supporter of the initiative. “This project is a powerful way to support those who might not have enough to eat. While there have been minor concerns about attracting homeless individuals, the overwhelming response from the community has been one of enthusiasm and pride,” Ford says.

A community effort

The project is a collective endeavour, with residents, gardeners, and volunteers chipping in. “None of us are expert gardeners,” admits resident Steph Vermeulen, “but we’re learning as we go along. This is about transforming every available space into something productive. Instead of wasting resources on ornamental plants or lifeless grass verges, why not grow food that can feed people?”

Seedlings, often shared among neighbours, keep costs low. Much of the water comes from boreholes, ensuring no added pressure on the city's water supply. Volunteers have been instrumental in nurturing the gardens, from weeding to watering, while the gardeners employed at some sites ensure that the fruits of their labour are distributed to those in need.

Killarney Park: The heart of the initiative

Killarney Park has become the flagship location for the movement. A planning session, at the end of winter, led to swift action. Beds were prepped with compost under the guidance of the NKRA and Nolicent Ntete, the park’s long-time gardener, and seedlings, started by dedicated resident Priya Hargovan, were planted on a chilly, rainy Sunday. Over the months, volunteers tended the garden with care, and today, it is thriving.

Ntete, who has been growing his patch of vegetables in the park for years, now oversees the communal garden. His expertise have been invaluable. “Spinach is a community favourite,” says Ntete. “People always return for more.”

A vision for Johannesburg

This movement isn’t just about Killarney. The residents have a grand vision: To turn Johannesburg into a sprawling urban farm, one suburb at a time. By growing food in every available space, they hope to create a city where no one goes hungry.

The gardens, some boasting up to 15 different types of vegetables, are open to all. Whether it's a struggling resident or someone just needing fresh ingredients, the community ensures that no one is turned away.

Killarney’s green revolution proves that with a little effort and a lot of heart, ordinary people can create extraordinary change. The hope is that others across Johannesburg will be inspired to take up the spade and grow a future where everyone has enough to eat.

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