Shoprite helps Namibian community gardens sell their produce
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Windhoek Observer
Namibian community gardeners sold their vegetables and fresh herbs at a market day held on 27 October at the Shoprite store in Lafrenz, Windhoek. The initiative enables growers to sell directly to customers and gain business skills; it is part of the group’s support for more than 320 community gardens in southern Africa, according to the Windhoek Observer.
Seasonal organic vegetables grown by Namibian community gardens sold quickly at a market day held on 27 October at the Shoprite store in Lafrenz, in the capital Windhoek, reports the Windhoek Observer.
The initiative allows gardeners to sell their produce directly to the public and gain experience in marketing. The Shoprite Group supports more than 320 community gardens in southern Africa, including Groot Aub Fresh Producers and Hope Garden Lighthouse, to help contribute to food security. Participants also receive practical training in presenting products, setting prices, dealing with customers and keeping accounts.
On the outskirts of Windhoek, Groot Aub Fresh Producers garden grows a range of produce, which is sold to local residents and provides jobs. Surplus crops are often donated to a nearby retirement home and community centre. Julia Haipinge, a project member, said market days make it possible both to offer affordable produce and to learn how to fulfil bulk orders.
The Shoprite Group continues to support gardens through its Act for Change programme, which provides training, seeds and equipment, among other things, according to the Windhoek Observer.
