The Riverside City Improvement District (CID) and the Riverside CID Social Investment Foundation came together on Nelson Mandela Day on July 18 to showcase a transformative urban farming project at Cyril Clarke Secondary School.
Embracing the national theme, ‘It is still in our hands’, the project highlighted the collective responsibility and active citizenry needed to foster a climate-friendly environment and address food insecurity. Under the guidance of an agricultural specialist, a diverse group of guests, partners, sponsors and board members gathered at Cyril Clarke Secondary School where a new demonstration and training garden was established through the project. Here, they enthusiastically participated in planting the inaugural seeds, symbolising Mandela’s enduring legacy of unity and empowerment through practical community engagement.
“This event expresses our commitment to sustainable urban development and community empowerment,” stated Gary Phillips, the CSI programme manager for Riverside CID Social Investment Foundation. “By fostering partnerships and active involvement, we aim to create lasting change and cultivate a resilient, inclusive community.”
The initiative not only provided hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture, but also emphasised the role of the garden as an educational hub. Participants gained valuable insight into sustainable practices and the crucial role of community gardens in enhancing local food security.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Halls Properties, Halls Fresh Produce, Emnotweni Casino, Sorbet Nelspruit, Southern Sun Mbombela, StayEasy Mbombela, NPE Construction, Riverside Mall, Kishugu Business School, Kishugu Training Academy, AgricultSURE, Child Welfare Nelspruit and GP Viljoen Agri Consult, whose contributions made this initiative a success,” said Jessica Prim, Riverside CID marketing manager.
Moving forward, Riverside CID and the Riverside CID Social Investment Foundation remain committed to leveraging partnerships and community engagement to create a sustainable future in which every individual can thrive.
Businesses that wish to contribute to the cause are encouraged to contact Phillips on office@riversidecsifoundation.co.za for more information.
