At Thornybush Community, every seed we plant tells a story of hope, resilience, and sustainability. We recognise the vital role that agriculture plays in sustaining our communities and preserving our natural environment.
This World Agriculture Day (11 June), we’re celebrating more than just agriculture, we’re honouring the people, the purpose, and the powerful impact of our community farming initiatives have. From Uthla and Dixie to Acornhoek, we are working hand-in-hand with the communities to build sustainable initiatives that support both the people and the planet.
Our community-run gardens nurture skills, create income opportunities, and connect people through the shared goal of food security. These gardens supply fresh, nutritious produce not only to the community but also to Thornybush lodges, ensuring that guests enjoy meals that are not only delicious but deeply rooted in local sustainability.
Through training and mentorship, Thornybush Community are equipping local families to grow food year-round creating a ripple effect of positive.
Thornybush Agricultural Projects Making a Difference
Uthla Agricultural Cooperative: One of our newer initiatives, this cooperative employs 65 locals and is a growing force in sustainable farming. It supplies a reliable source of fresh vegetables to both the local community and nearby businesses, helping to build food systems that are resilient and regenerative.
Thousand Herbs and Vegetable Garden: Run by a powerhouse team of five women, this rural SMME is a standout success story. With land leased from Manyangana High School, the cooperative grows a mix of herbs, vegetables, edible flowers, and medicinal plants, including moringa, comfrey, and lemon verbena. With support from Thornybush Community, entrepreneurs like Annicky and Thelma have been trained in everything from crop management to business administration. The garden is a living example of how passion and purpose can turn a small agribusiness into a model of empowerment.
Hananani Primary School Garden: A true legacy project, this garden has thrived for over 10 years, producing more than 56,000 meals annually for schoolchildren. Overseen by green-fingered entrepreneur Keysman Nkuna, the garden grows spinach, carrots, peppers, onions, tomatoes, and beetroot—all harvested onsite at peak freshness. For many learners, these meals are a lifeline. For the community, it’s a daily reminder of the power of local food systems. Keysman’s dedication, supported by young gardening enthusiasts, has helped increase production to 10–15kg per week!
Thornybush Community agricultural projects are proof that when communities come together with purpose, we can grow more than food, we can grow resilience, dignity, and a more sustainable future together.
