A community is more than just buildings — it’s the people, the connections, and the shared experiences that make it feel like home. That’s why Vulamathuba’s Social Cohesion programmes focus on bringing tenants together through engaging activities that foster unity, promote diversity, and create a sense of belonging. Whether it’s kids expressing themselves through dance, teens gaining essential life skills, or elderly residents learning to live independently, these initiatives help build stronger, more connected communities.
One of the most exciting programmes growing—both figuratively and literally—is the Vulamathuba Garden Programme.
At Communicare’s housing complexes, something green and wonderful is growing—both in the soil and our tenants’ hearts. The Vulamathuba Garden Programme is more than just a space for growing vegetables; it’s a thriving community where people come together to cultivate fresh produce, learn new skills, and build lasting connections.
Taking place across several Communicare complexes — including Bothasig Gardens and Montclair Place — and at the Vulamathuba Community Learning Centre, this initiative allows tenants to grow their own food, reduce grocery costs, and even earn a little extra income. Each complex has its own group chat where members share gardening tips, plan activities, and support each other. And the best part? No experience is needed—just a willingness to get your hands a little dirty!
More than just a hobby — it’s a lifeline
For many tenants, the garden has become an essential part of daily life. Angela Meyer (65, Bothasig Gardens), who joined the programme three years ago, has seen firsthand how growing her own food has eased financial strain.
“When I first moved in, string beans cost R19 per kilo. Now, they’re R79! But with the garden, I don’t have to worry about that. It’s helped me tremendously,” she shared.
Beyond the financial benefits, Angela also found joy in building relationships through the programme.
“I got to know my neighbours while selling some of my produce. We all have different energies and bring different knowledge, so I’ve learned a lot.” — Angela Meyer
And what’s one unexpected skill she picked up? Composting!
“I never thought I’d be into composting, but now I love it. It’s so good for the environment, and as a vegetarian, it makes me happy to use food scraps in a sustainable way.” — Angela Meyer
For Cherry De Jager (74, Bothasig), the programme was an opportunity to rediscover a lifelong love for gardening.
“I’ve always preferred growing vegetables over flowers. I had a few failures at first, but I learned that gardening is about trying, failing, and trying again.” — Cherry De Jager
Her biggest advice? Don’t be afraid to start.
“Even if you don’t think you have a green thumb, you’ll never know until you try. Start small—spinach, tomatoes, and pumpkins are easy for beginners.” — Cherry De Jager
A garden that grows more than vegetables
For Noluvo Mbiko, the garden programme implementor, the most exciting moment is always harvest time.
“We plant with hope, not knowing exactly how things will turn out. But when the time comes, and we see healthy, thriving crops, it’s so rewarding!” — Noluvo Mbiko
She envisions the garden expanding to support even more families in need, especially within the complex and in the surrounding community.
“Right now, we give 50% of what we grow to tenants and sell the other half. But with more people joining, we could provide fresh vegetables to struggling families in the area, especially those who are frail or disabled.” — Noluvo Mbiko
The programme is inclusive, catering to people with physical challenges by using raised beds alongside traditional in-ground planting.
But Noluvo is clear: they need more people to join the programme.
“We don’t expect you to be an expert. We provide training, tools, and guidance. All we need is your commitment.” — Noluvo Mbiko
A second chance through gardening
One of the most touching success stories comes from a tenant who initially wanted nothing to do with gardening. She was unemployed and hesitant to get involved, but once she did, everything changed.
“She now depends on the garden for food. She’s one of the most active members, selling produce to tenants and helping with upkeep. It’s given her purpose, financial relief, and a sense of community,” shared the coordinator of the gardening programme, Nomfundo Kalipa.
This is precisely why the Vulamathuba Garden Program exists — to grow food, boost our tenants’ confidence and skills, and expand opportunities.
Thinking about starting your own garden? Here’s where to begin!
If you’ve never planted a thing in your life but want to give it a shot, don’t worry! The Garden Programme provides training and tools, so you don’t need prior knowledge. It has now partnered up with Abalimi Bezekhaya, a non-profit organisation that supports micro-farmers in Cape Flats townships in growing vegetables organically. It’s an excellent step for the Vula Garden as the Abalimi team is aware of the necessary support it needs to provide to tenants once they join the program.
But if you’d like to start at home, here are some beginner-friendly tips from our experienced gardeners:
✅ Start with easy-to-grow vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, and pumpkins. They’re low-maintenance and grow well in most conditions.
✅ Know your space – If you have a small area, choose container-friendly plants like lettuce or herbs.
✅ Soil matters! Good ground conditions are key — make sure the soil isn’t too dry or too compacted.
✅ Spacing is essential. A good rule of thumb? Use the width of your hand to measure the distance between seeds.
✅ Sun and water balance. Too much sun can dry out plants, and too much water can drown them. Find a happy medium!
✅ Compost your food scraps. It’s an easy way to make natural fertiliser and reduce waste.
Want to join? Here’s how!
The Vulamathuba Garden Programme is open to all tenants of Communicare complexes, specifically Bothasig Gardens and Montclair Place, and community members visiting the Vulamathuba Community Learning Centre. If you’re interested, check your complex’s group chat for updates or speak to one of the coordinators. All you need is commitment, and our coordinators will handle the rest!
So why not give it a try? You might discover a new passion, meet incredible people, and even save some money in the process. Who knows? Your first tiny seed could grow into something bigger than you ever imagined.
For more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Noluvo Mbiko today at admin@vulamathuba.org.za or call us on 021 421 6008. Your green thumb enhancement is within reach; take that eco-friendly step!