Mpumalanga, South Africa

Mpumalanga Aquaponics Facility: Empowering South Africa Through Sustainable Agriculture

FreshMinistries, in partnership with Conservation South Africa, part of the Conservation International network, designed and developed the Eat Fresh Mpumalanga Aquaponics Facility. Opened in 2022, this facility is located behind the Acorns to Oaks Comprehensive School on the border of the Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces. It serves as both a production and education hub, providing fresh, healthy produce to area lodges, restaurants, and community organizations while also promoting sustainable agricultural practices in a rural, bush environment.

Mission and Impact

Designed to meet the needs of the local community, the Mpumalanga Aquaponics Facility produces culturally relevant food that supports food security and economic development in the region. By incorporating aquaponics, an efficient and environmentally sustainable growing method, the facility consistently provides fresh produce to local businesses and organizations. It also offers a unique opportunity for the community to learn about the benefits of sustainable agriculture, empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to produce food in a way that preserves the environment and respects local traditions.

Training and Partnerships

The Mpumalanga Aquaponics Facility is not only a production site but also an educational space. Local residents have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture, learning how to produce food in an efficient and climate-smart way. The facility’s partnership with Conservation South Africa ensures that these practices are integrated with conservation efforts, contributing to both food security and environmental sustainability in the region.

Vision

The Mpumalanga Aquaponics Facility is a prime example of how collaboration between FreshMinistries and local partners can create lasting, positive impacts. This facility not only supports the local economy by providing fresh produce but also acts as a center for community education, promoting the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. As part of FreshMinistries' ongoing commitment to empowering communities, the Mpumalanga facility will continue to serve as a model for integrating sustainable agriculture with conservation efforts, fostering a healthier, more resilient future for the region.