News

Swellendam: South African National Parks (SANParks), in partnership with the Railton Foundation, officially launched the Greening and Food Security Programme at the Railton Foundation Community Garden in Swellendam on Friday, 14 August 2026.

The initiative aims to strengthen food security and sustainable livelihoods through community food production, skills development, environmental awareness and opportunities for local economic participation.

The Railton Foundation has developed and managed the community garden over several years. The project supports home gardeners and feeding schemes, while creating opportunities for the production and marketing of fresh vegetables, skills development and local employment.

Through its Corporate Social Investment (CSI) support, SANParks contributed essential infrastructure and equipment, including a greenhouse, irrigation and water-support infrastructure, gardening tools, signage, soup-kitchen supplies, a storage and cooling facility, a wendy house and a vegetable scale.

The project also benefits from access to the existing leiwater system, with the Swellendam Municipality supporting the initiative through access to this water infrastructure.

The handover event provided an opportunity to showcase the garden and highlight the importance of sustainable food production, responsible resource use, environmental stewardship and stakeholder relations.

SANParks’ involvement forms part of its commitment to supporting communities through initiatives that promote sustainable livelihoods and greater awareness of the value of natural resources.

The project’s theme, “Planting seeds of hope for a greener tomorrow,” reflects its focus on creating practical and sustainable opportunities that benefit both the community and the environment.