ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LIFE-CHANGING CLINIC GARDEN EARNS PREMIER’S AWARDS NOMINATION
The Isiphingo Food for Health Clinic Garden, established to ensure that patients on chronic medication have access to nutritious food, has been shortlisted in the KZN Premier’s Service Excellence Awards.
It is competing in the Most Effective Food Security and Agricultural Programme category.
Launched last year, the garden has become a flagship initiative showcasing the powerful connection between food security, nutrition, improved health outcomes and cross-sector collaboration.
The project is led by the Social Primary Healthcare Food Security Division and is implemented through a multi-sectoral partnership approach.
Originally, the initiative focused on a group of women who were clinic patients, many living with chronic conditions.
The garden was introduced as a nutrition-sensitive intervention aimed at addressing food insecurity, one of the key factors that undermines treatment adherence and recovery.
As the project grew, market days were introduced during harvest seasons.
These allow participants to generate an income used for emergencies, purchasing seedlings, and maintaining the garden.
This model enhances sustainability while promoting dignity, empowerment and selfreliance.
Today, the Isiphingo Food for Health Clinic Garden stands as a leading example of integrated food security and health programming.
Through strategic partnerships, community involvement and adaptable solutions, the project has strengthened primary healthcare delivery, supported treatment adherence, improved household nutrition and restored a sense of dignity among participants.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
