Western Cape Department of Agriculture Commemorates World Food Day

Strategic Insights -

The Western Cape Department of Agriculture joined the global community in commemorating World Food Day on 16 October 2025, under the theme "Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future." The department, in partnership with the Swartland Municipality and Cape Agency for Sustainable Integrated Development in Rural Areas (Casidra), hosted its flagship World Food Day event on 10 October 2025, marking the culmination of a series of impactful food security initiatives rolled out across the Swartland region throughout October. The event emphasized the importance of partnerships and community-driven initiatives in addressing the challenge of food insecurity.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Western Cape Department of Agriculture implemented 203 household agricultural food production initiatives in communities, including Moorreesburg, Kalbaskraal, Riverlands, Abbotsdale, Koringberg, and Chatsworth.
  • The initiatives included subsistence projects, school food gardens, and a "Plant One Tree, Eat for Free" drive, resulting in the distribution of over 520 fruit trees to households and community projects.
  • The department launched 23 household chicken production projects, which will be completed during October, further strengthening household-level food resilience.
  • A "Food Mountain", donated to six local NGOs, was created through generous contributions from sponsors and staff.
  • The department engaged young minds through its annual School Poster Competition, involving learners from Russtasie, Holvlei, and Koringberg Primary Schools.
  • The competition aimed to instil awareness of food security and sustainable agri-food systems from an early age.

Statistics:

  • 203 household agricultural food production initiatives were implemented in communities across the Swartland region.
  • Over 520 fruit trees were distributed to households and community projects through the "Plant One Tree, Eat for Free" drive.
  • 23 household chicken production projects were launched by the department as part of its food resilience initiatives.
  • Six local NGOs received donations as part of the "Food Mountain" initiative.

Sources:

  • Department of Agriculture, Government of South Africa, "Western Cape Department of Agriculture Commemorates World Food Day," 10 October 2025.
  • Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, "World Food Day 2025."