EAST LONDON- In a bid to promote self-sufficiency and food security, the African Transformation Movement(ATM) recently launched a garden initiative in the Ncera community on 03 April 2025 in Ncerha, Ward 34, Village 4 in East London. The initiative ‘One Household, One Garden’ aims to encourage residents to grow their own food and reduce reliance on government assistance.
The program was officially launched with a donation of garden tools and crops to the community. According to a local resident Nomfusi Mayam the program has been well-received, “The ATM party encouraged us to plant crops in our gardens so that our stomachs can be full, even for the unemployed.”
Eastern Cape Deputy Secretary for ATM Thandiwe Sikhwebu emphasized the importance of community empowerment, “We want people to be self-sufficient and not rely solely on government assistance, which can be slow to arrive, by providing the necessary tools and resources, we are empowering communities to take control of their own food security.”
Furthermore, another community member Nzolo Sisilana praised the initiative, “This is a good program that the President has introduced. It will help us to have food on the table and also create jobs for our youth.”
ATM president Vuyolwethu Zungula said, “The ‘One Household, One Garden’ initiative is part of ATM’s broader efforts to promote economic empowerment and self-sufficiency in communities across South Africa. By providing support and resources to local farmers and gardeners, ATM aims to help communities overcome poverty and food insecurity.”
As the initiative continues to gain momentum, ATM leaders are calling on community members to get involved and take ownership of the program.
Photograph: Ncerha village 4 community members with their new garden tools, officially handed over by ATM president Vuyo Zungula
Photograph: ECDN
