Strengthening Stellenbosch’s Food System: A Collaborative Approach 2023 – 2024
The SCAN Food Systems Working Group (FSWG) is a dedicated collective working to foster sustainable food practices within the Stellenbosch community. This initiative, involving NGOs and Stellenbosch University, aims to create a more resilient and equitable food system through learning, capacity development, and knowledge sharing.
A Response to COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerabilities of local food systems, prompting a need for increased understanding and support. Led by Dr. Rhoda Malgas, the FSWG embarked on a mission to map and analyse existing food relief efforts. This initiative emphasised the importance of interconnectedness and systems thinking in addressing food security challenges. “It’s important for us to not exist in isolation, but as part of a system,” explains Rirhandzu Marivate, former steering committee member of SCAN and Food Systems Working Group lead (2023).
Key Projects and Collaborative Initiatives
Driven by her extensive knowledge as an agroecologist and her passion for community development through sustainable food systems, Rirhandzu spearheaded two pivotal projects during her time with SCAN.
One of the FSWG’s key collaborative initiatives is with the Living Soils Community Learning Farm in Lynedoch. This regenerative farming project equips young farmers with comprehensive agricultural skills, promoting sustainable practices and opening doors to employment opportunities. By partnering with Woolworths Trust, Spier Wine Farm, and the Sustainability Institute, Living Soils addresses critical challenges such as food insecurity, climate change, soil health, poverty, and unemployment.
Building a Sustainable Food Community
The FSWG recognises that a sustainable food system requires collaboration and connection. By bridging the gap between isolated farmers and creating a supportive community, the group aims to facilitate knowledge exchange, resource sharing, and market access. This collective approach empowers individuals and organisations to work together towards a more resilient and equitable food system.
Recent Developments and Future Plans
In 2024, SCAN elected a new Steering Committee including Nathan Wollow. The Steering Committee brings diverse expertise and a shared commitment to sustainable and equitable food systems in Stellenbosch.
Nathan is an Environmental and Sustainability scientist and consultant working with farms in Stellenbosch on developing more sustainable agricultural practices drawing influence from his background in agro-ecology, “I am actively working on addressing food security,” explains Nathan.
Guy Campbell, as the current FSWG lead, is a consultant for Ranyaka, a national NGO based in Stellenbosch. He is currently managing the Western Cape Food Network which comprises of gardens in Klapmuts, Kylemore, Paarl and Khayelitsha. The Food Network is part of the Nedbank funded Proud of My Town Programme and has recently partnered with Herbal View Hydroponics and the IDC to add a hydroponic greenhouse to each of the gardens – which are located at schools.
The FSWG’s agenda for 2024 includes workshops, feasibility studies, and planning for a community-based food hub in Stellenbosch. The group holds quarterly meetings at the CoCreate Hub for all actors to touch base on food systems related activities and contribute to the agenda. In August the group will be travelling to the SA Urban Food & Farming Trust’s Oranjezicht City Farm and Langa Agrihub guided by Rirhandzu Marivate – former Chair of The FSWG. The group also aims to learn from successful models, such as the SAUFFT’s agri-hub, to inform their own initiatives.
“For a sustainable food system in Stellenbosch we need to bridge the gap through better facilitating a community of connection as farmers typically work in ‘their little pockets of isolation’. There are spaces of abandoned abundance.”
Collaboration and Impact
The FSWG has already achieved significant impact through collaboration and networking. One example is the partnership between the Nedbank Proud of My Town Gardens in Klapmuts and Pebbles Kitchen, which connects local farmers with a large-scale food service provider. The vegetables are grown 10km from Pebbles Kitchen by EPJ Kleinboerdery and Pebbles cooks 2500 meals per day.
Sustainable Impact
The SCAN Food Systems Working Group is a driving force in creating a more sustainable and equitable food system in Stellenbosch. Through its collaborative approach, innovative projects, and commitment to learning and development, the FSWG is empowering individuals and organisations to work together towards a more resilient and prosperous future.
