In the heart of Namibia, Erundu Combined School has become a beacon of innovation and resilience, taking the Food for Life (FFL) Programme to new heights. Originally launched in 2003 in South Africa to combat Africa’s growing food crisis, the FFL Programme empowers communities with the skills to produce sustainable food, even in challenging conditions. For Erundu Combined School, this initiative has not only transformed their campus but also ignited a passion for agriculture among learners and teachers alike.

In February 2023, Erundu Combined School embraced the FFL initiative with enthusiasm. Teachers and learners participated in both theoretical and practical training sessions, laying the foundation for a flourishing school garden. By July 2023, the garden expanded with the addition of fruit trees, introducing students to the vital skills of tree planting and care. This garden soon became a cornerstone of the school’s efforts to promote food security and practical education.

The results have been nothing short of remarkable. With 1,383 learners and 60 teachers, including one Scout leader, the garden has yielded bountiful harvests of spinach, beetroot, and carrots. The vegetables, sold at the local market and within the school community, have generated much-needed income for school projects. Beyond financial gains, the garden has instilled a sense of pride and responsibility among students. Many learners now actively tend the garden during school hours and have been inspired to start their own home-based gardens.

Teachers, too, have embraced the initiative, seeing it not only as a source of nutritious food but as a powerful educational tool. The garden has fostered a hands-on learning environment where lessons about sustainability, agriculture, and community collaboration come to life. As one student reflected, “I have really learned a lot since the garden was established. It has been eye-opening to know that I can grow my own food both at school and at home.”

However, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. The school faced issues such as pest infestations, clay soil in parts of the garden, and the need for a shade net to combat evaporation. Yet, these obstacles became opportunities for innovation. The school sourced fertile soil explored pest control methods, and developed plans to acquire the necessary materials to protect their crops.

The impact of the FFL garden extends far beyond the school grounds. It has united the school community, with even custodial staff contributing to its care during holidays. Additionally, the initiative has inspired plans to establish a Scout group at the school, introducing the FFL badge system to further encourage participation and skill-building.

The success of Erundu Combined School’s FFL project stands as a testament to the transformative power of sustainable agriculture. By addressing hunger, fostering self-reliance, and encouraging good health and well-being, the Food for Life Programme is not just changing individual lives—it is nurturing a generation of leaders committed to combating poverty and ensuring food security.

Erundu Combined School extends its heartfelt gratitude to Scouts of Namibia for spearheading this impactful project, proving that with the right tools and determination, a brighter future is within reach for all.