The Gabriel Road Area Project Association (Grapa) is a sterling testimony to the power of a community coming together to bring about endless possibilities on public open spaces in ways that curb illegal occupation, pollution and safety issues thanks to its established community garden in Plumstead.
Their Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Thursday 22 February began with the chair, Lorna Martin, providing an overview of their annual report. Among others, the report highlighted the challenge of member recruitment and implementation of community initiatives such as clean-ups and the food garden.
“The presentation emphasised the organisation’s vision to enhance safety and security for members within the designated area, as well as its efforts to promote community spirit and beautify the neighbourhood,” said secretary Bridgetti Lim Banda.
The discussion then moved to the community food garden and a market on the premises located on the corner of Gabriel and Bardia roads, with Exco member Elaine Rousseau providing an update on its evolution and success with weekly garden sales totalling over R70 000 for the year.
Rousseau noted that the garden sells vegetables every Saturday morning and receives additional support through sales from Chelse Deli, High Tea, Nigiro Tea House, Food Fanatics, and Real Food Club.
“The community has shown significant support for the garden, leading to plans for expansion and maintenance, including the installation of a new drip line irrigation system in Phase B, made possible thanks to a discount from Aquarius Irrigation,” related Rousseau.
Treasurer Louis Fourie presented the financial report, highlighting the need for financial transparency and the distribution of the balance sheet for records.
A brief reflection was given by Martin on Grapa’s inception, noting its informal establishment via WhatsApp in January 2020 and subsequent formalisation in August 2020, which included the formation of an Executive Committee (EXCO), constitution creation and registration with the City of Cape Town as a Residents Association and a Non-Profit Company.
Additionally, Grapa applied for Tax Exemption and Public Benefit Organisation status, recruited members, established a database and opened a bank account. “Our vision and mission were reiterated, emphasising the promotion of security services, property maintenance standards, neighbourhood beautification, and community spirit,” Lim Banda continued.
An Operations Report was illustrated by Exco member Lauren Hoard as she emphasised the importance of safety and security by also acknowledging the support from law enforcement, the Displaced Persons Unit (DPU) and security providers in responding to residents’ calls and reports.
“The partnership with civic entities for camera monitoring, incidents of intrusion and theft, and the encouragement for joining the Plumstead Neighbourhood Watch were also discussed,” said Hoard.
She additionally presented the developments in the garden and community market, emphasising the changes and progress made. “The success of the community food garden and market was discussed, emphasising the positive impact on the community and the need for new volunteers to coordinate the market.”
The market has increased visibility and sales, and plans are underway for an annual lucky draw event to raise funds, with opportunities for local businesses to sponsor prizes.
Aims and Objectives for 2024
Martin discussed Dan Pienaar Circle residents needing assistance in launching their Community Food Garden initiative and that it falls within the Grapa area and mandate, “but that this is a huge undertaking that cannot be done without full community support”.
Efforts to strengthen the Grapa Community Food Garden will include various initiatives such as installing shade cloth, hiring additional gardeners, boosting sales, raising awareness, and enhancing security and irrigation systems. The current mandate includes beautifying community spaces by improving aesthetics and functionality.
There was a call for individuals to join the Grapa Executive Committee, as several positions remain vacant. “If no nominations are received, alternatives will be considered, including potential amendments to focus solely on the Community Food Garden, with members being informed 14 days in advance,” added Martin.
She reiterated the need for volunteers to fill vacant roles within the organisation, particularly highlighting the need for a chairperson and a marketing person. Attendees were encouraged to avail themselves or nominate others. She also emphasised the importance of community support and involvement. The meeting concluded with expressions of gratitude towards specific individuals for their support and involvement in community initiatives.
