ESTCOURT: Deputy Minister visits Al-Imdaad Foundation garden

Al-Imdaad Foundation’s head office in Estcourt received a visit from the National Deputy Minister of Social Development, Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu, on September 16.

The Minister said she had been working with the Al-Imdaad Foundation for nine years, but had never been to the head office, so she took the opportunity to visit while she was in the area.

The Minister was given a tour of the Al-Imdaad Foundation’s Organic Community Garden.

READ MORE HERE: Al-Imdaad garden project blossoms

She was very impressed with the garden and the new aquaponics dome, which she said would be a great way to introduce younger generations to different growing techniques.

Addressing the dome designer, she said, “You know what, I’m actually listening to you and I’m already seeing the faces of children, how you simplify things, (I’m seeing) you talking to children and their excited faces following you around.”

One of the main gardeners, Sandile Ishaq Hlophe, explained the basic principles of organic gardening that they follow in the garden.

The Minister mentioned that in a society where the youth does not usually like gardening, the passion and dedication of young gardeners like Mr Hlophe was impressive.

During the garden visit, Deputy Minister Bogopane-Zulu said that it was important to share knowledge and suggested that the gardeners go on field trips to visit similar gardens in other parts of the country.

The Al-Imdaad Foundation works closely with the Department of Social Development to address the challenges of South African society and is committed to fighting poverty and other socioeconomic problems.

For more information, visit www.alimdaad.com or call 086-178-6243.

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