WATCH: Mall @ The Junction backs Rosettenville community farming project
The shopping centre strengthened its commitment to community upliftment by funding and erecting a secure fence for the SILA Community Farming Organisation.
Mall @ The Junction in Rosettenville has strengthened its commitment to community upliftment by supporting the SILA Community Farming Organisation, located just 1.2km from the centre.
It recognises the important role community partnerships play in creating sustainable impact beyond retail. As part of this commitment, the shopping centre recently assisted the community garden by funding and erecting a secure perimeter fence around the farming site.
Established in November 2024, the SILA Community Farming Organisation was initially created as a practical training site for learners completing accredited farming programmes through the Ebotse Development and Training Centre.
The initiative was later handed over to graduates through the Rosettenville Business Forum led by its chairperson, Simphiwe Hlafa, enabling long-term community ownership and participation.
Today, the garden supports approximately 80% of the community and provides accessible, affordable organic produce to the surrounding community, including spinach, tomatoes, onions, cabbage, potatoes, chillies, green peppers and lettuce.
@southern.courier The shopping centre strengthened its commitment to community upliftment by funding and erecting a secure fence for the SILA Community Farming Organisation. Full story on southerncourier.co.za
The project, which is at the corner of Verona and Lawn streets, is maintained daily through a rotational system among members and overseen by a three-person committee comprising a secretary, operational manager and treasurer.
The initiative currently involves about 10 active volunteers, including one visually impaired member, seven women and one male volunteer.
Beyond food production, the initiative plays a broader role in addressing unemployment, food insecurity and skills development within the area.
Produce grown at the garden not only supports vulnerable families through donations but also creates opportunities for small-scale commercial trade and self-sustainability within a community heavily impacted by crime and economic pressure.
Prior to the installation of the fence, the garden faced ongoing challenges relating to theft, vandalism and unrestricted public access, which affected crop production and operational safety.
The newly erected boundary fence and controlled access gate have already significantly improved site security and reduced unauthorised entry.
“Community-focused initiatives such as the SILA Community Farming Organisation play an important role in creating meaningful opportunities within Rosettenville,” said Talia Kilfoil, asset manager of Mall @ The Junction. “We are pleased to have contributed towards improving the safety and sustainability of a project that provides accessible produce, skills development and support to local households.”
She added that Mall @ The Junction remains committed to supporting initiatives that create meaningful social impact and strengthen the surrounding Rosettenville community.
