Tasneem Jhetam from Oribi unpacking the programme to interested urban farmers in Langa.
A group of township farmers gathered at Ikhaya le Langa in Rubusana Street last week to listen to a presentation by social impact incubator, Oribi.
The information session dealt with an upcoming AfriFOODLinks incubation that will provide a nine months training programme for those selected.
Tasneem Jhetham from Oribi explained to the urban farmers that the programme was aimed at “transforming the system by empowering entrepreneurs in the food chain”.
“Twenty entrepreneurs will be chosen to design and implement strategies aimed at making a significant impact in the market over a 12-week period,” she said.
The final phase will shortlist 15 entrepreneurs to enter a Funding Readiness programme designed to enhance the investment potential of their ventures and open them up to funding opportunities.
The AfriFOODLinks Incubation programme will welcome early stage entrepreneurs who are passionate about rethinking food production, regenerating agricultural practices, reducing waste, reusing resources, or recovering valuable materials
Mzi Mashicila of Lerotholi Food Garden and Urban Farming was hopeful that their members will grab this opportunity as it “promises to empower” them.
“We have about ten members and they are all keen to improve their skills and this is their chance,” said Ms Mashicila.
Ntombozuko Mkiva of Sinethemba Lesivuno and her group have been selling spinach and beetroot at the Agrihub on a small-scale but are now hopeful that their produce will multiply after some of the co-op attend the programme.
Thando Salman of Black City Farm whose mainstay produce is chillies and spinach believes that urban farmers will benefit immensely from the programme.
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