In Khayelitsha, a vibrant township in the Western Cape, the Neighbourhood Old Age Homes (NOAH) has cultivated more than just crops; it has nurtured a community.
The food garden here stands as a testament to resilience and unity, serving as a sanctuary for elderly residents who come together to cultivate not only fresh produce but also friendships that blossom amid shared experiences and stories.
For Nqwenise Gcaza (78), the NOAH food garden has been a refuge from the heartache that has marked his life. After losing his beloved wife in 2015, he took on the responsibility of caring for their six children.
Life dealt him another cruel blow when he lost his son, and earlier this year, he faced health struggles that led to a hospital stay due to low blood pressure. Returning to NOAH and immersing himself in the garden has transformed his outlook on life. His health has improved significantly, he shares.
“Gardening brings so many benefits,” explains Anne Dobson, head of sustainability at NOAH.
“It’s not only about growing fresh produce; it’s about establishing and nurturing connections. For many older adults, retirement can feel isolating, but this garden offers an inclusive space to engage, reconnect with nature, and share knowledge.”
The impact of NOAH stretches beyond the elderly individuals directly involved. Families and the broader Khayelitsha community reap the rewards of this initiative.
Singiswa Xiniwe, a gardener, reflects on her experience: “I use the garden for physical exercise and healing by getting my hands into the soil. I enjoy being able to transfer my skills, teaching my grandchildren how to grow and look after plants the way I was taught as a young child.”
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Strength and sustenance through NOAH’s garden
For Nomboniso Dyontya (69), joining NOAH was a stroke of luck that came while she was waiting in a SASSA queue. Since starting her journey in the garden in 2022, she has not only regained her strength but has also ensured her family of six enjoys a steady supply of nutritious food.
Now, they rarely go to bed hungry, Dyontya beams, sharing how they turn their fresh spinach into one of their favourite meals, umfino. “The garden is our lifeline.”
The support from Shoprite has been instrumental in the garden’s success since July 2019. As part of its Act For Change programme, the supermarket has provided essential infrastructure, including fencing and shade netting, along with hands-on permaculture training over 18 months.
With regular donations of seedlings, seeds, and compost, the partnership has helped cultivate a thriving environment where community members flourish.
“Our garden is a place for healing, learning, and community,” says Asiphe Mntuyedwa, NOAH’s Khayelitsha Centre coordinator. “Here, our elders find purpose, share their wisdom, and heal through sharing and friendship.”
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