Ubuntu Organic Farming project flourishes in Klipspruit West

After almost a year since the inception of the urban farming project, Ubuntu Organic Farming Community exceeded expectations, introducing organic farming, producing its first harvest, and promoting community involvement.

The project, which was started in early 2025, at Klipspruit West Secondary School with the goals of nurturing environmental awareness, skill development and food security, has grown into a center for organic farming and education.

Frances Marsh, chairperson of UCDAU said one of the main objectives last year was to mobilise the community and embed a culture of participation.

“We set out to get the community on board, educate people and start planting, and we did exactly that,” Marsh said.

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“All the crops produced a very good harvest, both in quality and quantity.”

The initiative hosted four community engagements over the year, including a Mandela Day event where vegetables from the garden were used to prepare soup for children and residents.

“People are amazed that this is the same food they buy every day. It’s about growing crops and growing people, changing mindsets, caring for the environment and improving health.”

Education has been a key focus Marsh explained. Grade 11 learners in consumer studies participated in practical lessons using produce from the garden, while primary school learners visited to learn composting, tunnel planting, and organic techniques.

Seniors from the community also attended monthly sessions, with seven receiving certificates for completing the full programme.

Additionally, agro-processing has started; late last year, a sauce made with garlic and coriander was introduced, drawing orders from the local community.

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Barloworld seed funding made it possible to buy seeds, build a tunnel, and provide stipends for eight volunteers.
During Women’s Month, the US-based Sister Accord Foundation awarded a small grant to the project, which also garnered international recognition.

She further stated that there are still difficulties, citing that security concerns caused plans to halt the introduction of rabbits and poultry, and the expansion of agro-processing is hindered by inadequate infrastructure.

“Water is still a major problem because the Department of Agriculture only provides two JoJo tanks.” The founder stated that obtaining a borehole would be advantageous for the community and school in addition to the garden.

Plans for 2026

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Marsh explained that their priorities for 2026 are securing funding partners, increasing production, bolstering security and upgrading infrastructure.

The team also plans to re-enter national women-in-agriculture competitions and replicate the model in other schools and communities, she added.

“Our vision is to show that food education can teach life skills, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. We have seen what’s possible when people come together, and now we are building on that foundation,” she concluded.