THE FUSE

Community food gardens are helping families access fresh produce while creating opportunities for local farmers to earn an income and develop valuable agricultural skills. More than 80 community food gardens across South Africa, Botswana and Namibia took part in the Shoprite Group’s annual Market Day on Tuesday, 27 October 2026. Their organically grown spring produce was sold to shoppers at selected Shoprite and Checkers stores, giving community growers direct access to customers. The initiative creates a practical link between small-scale food production and retail markets, while helping gardeners gain experience in selling their produce. It also highlights the important role that community agriculture can play in improving food security, supporting local livelihoods and strengthening small farming businesses.