Johannesburg has just taken a bold step towards a greener, more resilient future. The City of Johannesburg, through the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA), has launched the Urban Agriculture Food Resilience Infrastructure Project, a city-wide initiative designed to boost community farming, empower smallholder farmers, and put nutritious food within reach of more Joburg residents.
The project, rolled out in partnership with the City’s Social Development Department, recognises the urgent need to tackle food insecurity while also restoring dignity to communities most affected by poverty and hunger. At its core, it is a simple but powerful idea: give farmers the tools and infrastructure they need to succeed, and they’ll grow not only food but also stronger, more sustainable neighbourhoods.
Building farms that last
A lack of proper farming infrastructure has long held back smallholder farmers in the city. To change that, the initiative will bring vital upgrades to five sites across Johannesburg: Dannie Van Zyl, Diepkloof Skills Centre, Northern Farm, Eikenhof Farms, and Siyakhana Garden.
Expect to see new fencing, agricultural tunnels, shipping containers, walk-in cold rooms, and water tank stands built at these sites. These features will improve yields, strengthen environmental compliance, and build resilience against climate change.
Jobs for locals, by locals
This isn’t just about farming; it’s also about creating opportunity. Four of the five sites will employ local labour during construction, while one site will also bring in two local SMMEs. That means more jobs, more skills development, and more direct investment into the communities where it matters most.
“Food insecurity remains one of the most urgent challenges facing our city,” says JDA CEO Themba Mathibe. “By investing in sustainable farming infrastructure, we are not only making sure communities have access to nutritious food but also giving local farmers the tools they need to succeed long-term.”
Towards a resilient Joburg
The Urban Agriculture Food Resilience Infrastructure Project is part of the City’s broader plan to create an inclusive, sustainable, and climate-resilient Johannesburg. By supporting local farmers and strengthening food security, the city is planting the seeds for a future where communities can thrive—one harvest at a time.
RECOMMENDED
🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg
🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg
🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg
🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg
Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram!