This story is a follow-up on a story we published a while ago: Creating a Green Sanctuary Starts at Home.

Manny and Yolaine Jooste from Kirkwood, South Africa, told us about their planting activity, growing their own fruit and vegetables in their very own garden.

A few months have passed since we last heard from Manny and Yolaine, and just this week, we received some exciting news from them.

Manny was delighted to show us the beautiful fruits of their labour. From their previous plantings, they harvested delicious fruit and vegetables.

Their beautiful example also reminds us of two recent United Nations observances:

World Food Safety Day – 7 June
and
Sustainable Gastronomy Day – 18 June

Manny and Yolaine show us that by growing our own food, we can ensure that it is free from unnecessary chemicals and that we know exactly how it has been cared for.

At the same time, we can appreciate the sustainability aspect. Manny explains that by growing their own food, they understand the time, energy, and care invested in every fruit and vegetable. As a result, every bit of food is enjoyed, and very little goes to waste.

Did you know?

• One in three people worldwide cannot afford a healthy diet. Growing even a small amount of your own food can help improve access to fresh, nutritious produce while reducing household food costs.
• Food waste is a major environmental challenge. Around one-third of all food produced globally is lost or wasted, yet producing that food uses enormous amounts of water, land and energy. Home gardeners often waste less because they better understand the effort involved in growing food.
• Growing your own food can boost your wellbeing too! Research has shown that gardening is associated with improved mental health, reduced stress, increased physical activity, and a greater sense of community and wellbeing. It’s good for both people and the planet.

Thank you so much, Manny and Yolaine, for sharing this wonderful news with us! We are so happy for you, and we are certain that you have inspired our global community!

Sources & References :
https://www.fao.org/publications/fao-flagship-publications/the-state-of-food-security-and-nutrition-in-the-world/en
https://www.fao.org/home/en
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/piis2542-5196(22)00303-5/fulltext