Western Cape Agriculture MEC Ivan Meyer says World Food Day serves as a powerful reminder that access to food is a basic human right, not a privilege.

Under this year’s theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future,” Meyer says the province is strengthening partnerships and community-driven programmes to tackle hunger and malnutrition.

The department hosted its flagship World Food Day event on Friday, 10 October 2025 in partnership with the Swardland Municipality.

“Various community organisations were targeted to distribute food to communities who need it the most. We are committed to promote food security in the province.”

 

He added that the ultimate goal is to ensure that no household, no child, and no community is left behind in building a food-secure Western Cape.

“Over 203 household agricultural food production initiatives have been implemented in communities, including Moorreesburg, Kalbaskraal, Riverlands, Abbotsdale, Koringberg, and Chatsworth. These initiatives were complemented by subsistence projects, school food gardens, and a “Plant One Tree, Eat for Free” drive, which resulted in the distribution of over 520 fruit trees to households and community projects.”

 

Meyer emphasised that food security begins at home, and that local initiatives have shown the power to change lives.

“From household gardens to school competitions, our communities are growing not just food, but hope and opportunity.”