Department Advances Household Food Security in Jouberton Through Thuntsha Lerole Initiative

The Department, under the leadership of Head of Department Thupi Mokhatla, intensified efforts to fight food insecurity at household level through the Thuntsha Lerole Initiative in Jouberton, Matlosana Local Municipality. The initiative focused on empowering community members with resources, skills, and practical support to promote sustainable food production.

As part of the program, the Department handed over goat starter packages, including 10 does and 1 buck, to a veteran farmer at Sunny Side. This support aims to increase livestock production, provide a source of nutrition, and create income opportunities for households. The distribution of goats is expected to encourage small-scale animal husbandry, which can improve household food security and contribute to community resilience.

In addition, garden equipment was donated to the St Peters Church Community Garden. This contribution enables local gardeners to maintain productive plots, enhance crop yields, and strengthen community-based food initiatives. The support aligns with the Department’s goal to promote urban and peri-urban farming as a means of tackling hunger.

The Department also conducted a practical demonstration on transplanting seedlings at Ithuseng Primary School. Students and teachers were shown hands-on techniques for planting, nurturing, and managing seedlings, giving them skills that can be applied at school gardens or at home. This approach fosters a culture of sustainable food production among the younger generation.

Furthermore, vegetable starter packages were distributed to 30 beneficiaries, providing households with the necessary inputs to grow their own vegetables. The packages included seeds and seedlings that can produce a variety of nutritious crops, enabling families to supplement their diets and reduce dependence on purchased food.

Through the Thuntsha Lerole Initiative, the Department continues to strengthen food security in Jouberton by combining resources, education, and practical support. By providing livestock, garden tools, and vegetable starter kits, and by offering hands-on training, the program equips community members with the tools to sustain household food production and improve nutrition.

The initiative highlights the Department’s commitment to creating resilient communities, promoting self-sufficiency, and addressing food insecurity at the grassroots level in Matlosana Local Municipality.