Vegtech Netafim has donated a hydroponic greenhouse tunnel valued at R220 000 to the Living Soils Community Learning Farm in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This donation, which coincides with World Food Day celebrated today, aims to enhance local food security and aligns with this year’s theme: “Right to food for a better life and a better future.”
The hydroponic greenhouse tunnel represents a transformative tool for farmers and communities, enabling the cultivation of fresh produce irrespective of adverse external factors such as climate and soil conditions.
This donation not only aims to enhance the farm’s agricultural output but also serves as an invaluable educational resource for agricultural management interns, farm employees, and managers to explore precision agriculture techniques that prioritise sustainability and efficiency.
Equipped with advanced precision farming technology, the greenhouse allows crops to thrive in a hydroponic medium, significantly reducing water usage while increasing yield – a crucial combination that embodies the principles of regenerative farming.
The Living Soils Community Learning Farm is a partnership project involving Woolworths, Spier Wine Farm, and the Sustainability Institute.
Its mission is to improve long-term food security by providing a space to educate and empower young and emerging farmers, particularly women and youth, in sustainable food and farming practices.
The nutritious food produced at the farm is sold, exchanged, and donated to stakeholders who directly support food security initiatives for at-risk children and households.
“As we celebrate World Food Day today, this donation is especially meaningful,” remarked Namhla Skweyiya, project manager at the Living Soils Community Learning Farm.
“Access to nutritious, sustainably grown food is essential for a better life and future. This hydroponic greenhouse tunnel will significantly enhance our ability to provide that.
“It also offers a fantastic learning opportunity for our interns, who will gain exposure to precision agriculture, expanding their knowledge and improving their future employment prospects while directly supporting our mission to grow more food with fewer resources.”
Enhancing crop cultivation
The hydroponic greenhouse tunnel will enable the Living Soils Community Learning Farm to cultivate a variety of vegetable crops, including tomatoes and peppers, in a controlled environment throughout the year.
This technology allows for farming in coir – an artificial hydroponic medium – rather than traditional soil, ensuring optimal growth conditions.
“We were looking for a cause that resonated with our values,” stated Barney Isralls, managing director of Vegtech Netafim.
“The Living Soils Community Learning Farm stood out because of the exceptional work they do within the community, and their partnerships with reputable organizations like Woolworths and Spier Wine Farm assured us they were the right fit. By donating this hydroponic greenhouse tunnel, we aim to showcase how modern farming practices can improve productivity and enhance the quality of life for those involved.”
In addition to the donation, Vegtech Netafim has committed to providing high-level technical and agronomical support to the farm, ensuring that the Living Soils Community Learning Farm team has access to the best resources for long-term success.
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