NUTRITION is important to help children grow, to build healthy immune systems and to fight diseases.
To impart this knowledge, and empower community members to have access to fresh vegetables, Amangwe Village in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Empangeni recently held a food garden training day at Mafika Crèche in Macekane.
Amangwe Organic Food Garden Coordinator, Bongani Mthethwa, presented the five-day training to the 20 eager participants.
The first three days of the training included theoretical subjects where participants learned the importance of nutrition, getting to know your soil, soil preparation, about perma culture, conventional farming vs organic farming, minerals and their functions in plants, growing food in times of drought, and drip irrigation for door sized gardens.
The fourth day gave participants the opportunity to put their newly gained knowledge into practice and on the fifth day the Amangwe Home Based Care Coordinator gave a presentation on HIV/Aids awareness.
This included the use of medicinal herbs and plants in the treatment of minor skin diseases.
After the workshop, each participant received a starter kit which included a watering can, rake, hand fork, hand spade and seedlings.
The participants were encouraged to share their knowledge with neighbours in their community.
‘The training not only arms the participants with the knowledge and importance of nutrition, but also helps give them access to fresh vegetables and the tools to start their own gardens at home,’ said Amangwe Village Manager, Erna Steynberg.
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