Every year, Sakata Seed Southern Africa proudly partners with Universal Paper & Plastics (UPP) to honour Nelson Mandela Day by supporting meaningful community initiatives. This year was no different and once again, we were deeply moved to witness the positive impact being made in Ga-Rankuwa through our continued support of the Northern Hope Foundation.
At the heart of our involvement is the thriving community garden managed by the Northern Hope Foundation. Sakata has been donating vegetable seed to this project for several years and it brings us great joy to see how much the garden has grown – both in size and in spirit. This year, the garden expanded even further with the installation of a brand-new shade net structure to better protect the crops, ensuring more consistent harvests for the elderly in the community.
On 18 July 2025, we joined UPP and other dedicated partners to celebrate Mandela Day with the elderly residents of Ga-Rankuwa. As part of the day’s activities, food hampers, or “Food Socks”, were distributed to elderly beneficiaries and each hamper included packets of vegetable seed donated by Sakata. We believe that access to healthy food starts with access to quality seed and we’re proud to play a small role in enabling food security through this initiative.
What makes this project truly special is the commitment shown by the local community. The garden is not only respected, but actively nurtured by community members who understand the importance of growing food together. Their efforts are making a tangible difference and it’s a privilege for us to be part of their journey.
We thank Universal Paper & Plastics for their ongoing collaboration and the opportunity to once again support such a meaningful cause. It is always a highlight for our team to attend this event, engage with the community and witness firsthand the growth, not only of the crops, but of community spirit.
As we reflect on this year’s Mandela Day, we are reminded that “it is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity.” And with partners like UPP and foundations like Northern Hope, we believe lasting change is possible, one seed at a time!
Produce harvested from the garden recently.
Produce was donated to a local crèche.
Sakata seed donation to garden.
Sakata receives certificate of appreciation.
Sakata receives certificate of appreciation.
Sakata and Northern Hope Foundation.
Nelson Mandela Day event in Ga-Rankuwa on 18 July 2025.
