ENGAGE in Johannesburg

Thus far the project is concentrating on entrepreneurship and food security which helps to address MDG 1, Eradicate Extreme Poverty.

In partnership with the Olive Leaf Foundation, Citi and BHP Billiton are establishing a food garden at the Emthonjeni Community Centre for the support of vulnerable children, orphans and their caregivers.

The overall aim is to create a sustainable project where the community can work and benefit from the garden.  In order to ensure the sustainability of the project the local community group will take full ownership of the garden post establishment with support from corporate volunteers. 

The companies are transferring their skills i.e. food growing, ongoing tending, task allocation and equitable distribution of harvests as well as supply of gardening tools, fencing and irrigation for the project.

The first activity took place 1st April where activities included: mixing in compost, planting vegetable and herb seedlings according to companion groups, plant next batch of seeds in nursery and any related activities.

In the future the project aims to move into the following areas:

• skills development
• life skills
• health education (including HIV)

Companies: BHP Billiton, Citi, Exiliti and Nike.

To find out how your company can get involved in this project please contact Jenny Todd.