John Dearden shared that efforts are underway to explore funding opportunities and develop sustainable channels to support network projects.

Bonginkosi from the Reverend Walter Tabashe Methodist Development Center in Pietermaritzburg highlighted the challenges and rewards of small-scale farming.

Despite limited profits, the project ensures year-round vegetable access for staff and volunteers. Surplus produce is sold affordably to church members and neighbors, with donations to local charities like old-age homes and community outreach programs.

Current crops include spinach, beetroot, and potatoes, with hopes for rain to sustain growth.

Manana Matima from the Sedibeng District reported planting 200 trees (fruit, evergreen, shade, and spekboom) in collaboration with local communities, libraries, and schools.

They've engaged social development officials and agricultural experts for potential partnerships and funding.

The group is also advancing land applications for dedicated project spaces. Community education on tree benefits, including soil enrichment, was emphasized, with media coverage (radio and newspapers) adding visibility and value to their work.

Danisa Kasha from Africa Child discussed planting turmeric and other high-demand crops like Indian yellow plants, alongside rabbit farming initiatives.

Partnerships focus on workshops teaching organic practices, such as using rabbit waste as manure to avoid GMOs. Moringa projects are gaining traction, with 20 participants securing offtake agreements..

Euodia Volanie from the Eastern Cape updated on engagements with the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development for exhibitions on agricultural support for churches.

They've secured spots in a "Farming God's Way" workshop to build community skills in empowerment projects like needlework and farming.

Clint Ngoma from Amanzimtoti noted preparations for a goat farming project, with a meeting scheduled with local chiefs this weekend, promising an update at next weeks meeting.

Scott Hoenig, reflected on an EDHE conference on entrepreneurship, highlighting disconnects between educators, investors, and grassroots needs.

He emphasized rethinking commerce in agricultural programs to foster inclusive, team-based ventures.

A highlight was Dr. Willem Landman's presentation on seasonal weather forecasting, delivered "hot off the press" with data compiled just minutes before the meeting.

As a researcher at the University of Pretoria specializing in seasonal forecasting, Dr. Landman explained the current weak La Niña phase, which often brings wetter conditions to South Africa's summer rainfall regions.

His models predict enhanced probabilities of above-normal rainfall in midsummer (December-February) over Gauteng, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and much of the summer rainfall belt—vital news for our farming communities.

This session underscored the intersection of science, faith, and community action, with Bishop Verryn noting Dr. Landman's thoughtful views on religion and science as potential future topics.

Although applications closed last Friday, there are a host of valuable links and infomation available on their website, well worth looking into and subscribing to their own newsletter.

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PodCast version from Bishop Paul Verryn's weekly Agriculture forum.
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