"We are working with Food & Trees for Africa to grow for Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVCs) who depend on the feeding scheme, which is for some their only meal of the day," says Gauteng and Free State programme specialist Fikile Ngcobo. "In addition, the food garden is showing parents, school gardeners, the educators and other interested members of the community, how to start their own food gardens at home, thus reaching far beyond the limits of the school."
Mandela Day on 18 July aims at celebrating this esteemed hero's birthday by encouraging the continuation of his legacy of compassion. Mandela's example of how the power of a single person can significantly change the world, was a key motivation in the formation of social enterprise Food & Trees for Africa (FTFA).
"Back in 1990 when I founded what is today a leading organisation addressing greening, food security, climate change and sustainable livelihoods, Nelson Mandela's determination, focus and humanity inspired me to realise that one person could change things for the better," said Jeunesse Park, founder of FTFA. This also inspired FTFA's motto - "One can make a difference".
Over the past two decades FTFA has worked on numerous projects with Mandela, including the placement of a forest at his home in Qunu, the opening of the Nelson Mandela Park in Mamelodi and the planting of many trees in Alexandra. The organisation is also proud to have his wife, Graça Machel, as a patron.
"This forthcoming Mandela Day is full of poignancy and optimism," said Park. "We encourage everyone to take the opportunity to keep alive the special day and the ideas of good-heartedness associated with it and with Tata himself."
Anyone still looking for a way to spend Mandela's birthday can join the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund and FTFA on Thursday morning, 18 July, to plant trees and develop a herb garden at Yeoville Boys Primary School.
For more information, email az.gro.seert@ennaoj or az.oc.fcmn@mtegdirb.
