Usapho Indlu turns devastation into new beginnings

GEORGE NEWS - The waste from the trees the recent storms had blown over has not gone unused by the Usapho Indlu NGO in Thembalethu.

The organisation made use of an abundance of freely available mulch and wood chips to help restore their vegetable gardens after the storms, according to the CEO, Sally Versveld.

"Our staff and volunteers collected chipped wood from one of the collection points created by the George Municipality for households to throw their garden refuse and fallen trees, where giant chippers have been processing everything. We used these materials that were destined for the dumpsite to fill trenches where floodwater had accumulated in our food gardens. The wood chips absorb moisture and will enrich our gardens in the months to come."

Versveld said the staff made something positive out of the situation in this manner and turned devastation into a new beginning for the vegetable gardens. "We also covered our compost heaps with leaves and branches, so it is a win-win situation. Our staff and volunteers have worked tirelessly to serve their community in this way."

The gardens form part of Usapho Indlu's food security programme, which focuses on developing community food gardens, home gardens and school gardens, while also teaching essential skills.

Monica Vaccaro, local environmental activist who witnessed what was being done, said this type of action is an example of how the community can be transformed.

"It's an opportunity for us to start rethinking the way in which resources are used. The same could apply to rubble, sand, soil and so many things that are discarded. The landfill site is a mine of resources."

The wood chips absorb the moisture and serve as mulch that will break down and add to the richness of the soil. Photo supplied