Agrimark Shows That Every Meal Counts on World Food Day

When communities face food shortages, every meal matters. This year, Agrimark joined the global community in commemorating World Food Day under the theme; “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.”  This annual observance, led by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), serves as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to ensure food security for all.

As part of its broader sustainability strategy to help fight hunger, Agrimark made a meaningful contribution of R50,000 to support the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDoA) and Casidra’s 2025 World Food Day celebrations in Moorreesburg. The event marked the culmination of a series of impactful food security initiatives rolled out across the Swartland region throughout October, which is also celebrated as South Africa’s Food Security Month.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Mayor of Swartland Municipality, Ms Anet de Beer, said;  “It is our goal to ensure that every household in the Swartland Municipality has access to sufficient, safe, nutritious food. This is not only a development goal but the cornerstone of social and economic stability. Partnerships and united community initiatives will play a critical role in addressing the challenge of food insecurity.”

Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer, emphasised that World Food Day reminds us that the right to food is not a privilege but a fundamental human right.  “Through our partnerships and community-driven initiatives, we are working hand in hand to ensure that no household, no child, and no community is left behind in our pursuit of a food-secure Western Cape,” he said.

At the heart of Agrimark’s strategy is the Harvesting Hope initiative. Launched to reduce food waste and strengthen local food systems, the programme rescues surplus produce from commercial and small-scale farms and channels it to households in need. Since its inception, Harvesting Hope has rescued hundreds of tonnes of fresh produce that would otherwise go to waste, provided over 2.6 million meals to vulnerable communities, and supported small-scale farmers by connecting them with reliable markets and fair opportunities.

“Agrimark’s support allows us to reach more families and make a real difference in the communities we serve. By working together, we’re not just strengthening agriculture, we’re strengthening people’s lives. In the Western Cape, World Food Day is more than a symbolic gesture; it is a call to action,” says Dr Mogale Sebopetsa, Head of Department: Agriculture, Western Cape.

Tasneem Sulaiman-Bray, Director: Corporate Affairs at KAL Group, adds, “Harvesting Hope shows that what might be surplus for some can be life-changing for others. It’s about turning opportunity into impact, for farmers, for communities, and for the food system as a whole.”

By partnering with WCDoA and Casidra, Agrimark demonstrates that combining resources, expertise, and a shared vision ensures that nutritious meals reach the communities that need them most.

“World Food Day is about more than raising awareness; it’s about action. Agrimark’s support allows us to reach more families and demonstrates that partnerships in the fight against food insecurity can directly contribute to hunger relief efforts in communities,” says Dr Keith du Plessis, CEO of Casidra.

Sulaiman-Bray further reflects on Agrimark’s long-term commitment, “Agrimark’s commitment extends far beyond donations. Every initiative, every partnership, and every rescued meal reflects our deeper purpose: powering growth from farm to fork while nurturing resilient, food-secure communities. As we continue to expand Harvesting Hope and work with partners across the agricultural sector, the impact growsreaching more farmers, more communities, and more tables where nutritious food truly makes a difference. Supporting World Food Day is more than a contribution; it’s a reminder that we can all play a role in building stronger, healthier communities.”

Minister Meyer concluded, “Food security begins at home, and this October, we have seen the power of local action. From household gardens to school competitions, our communities are growing not just food, but hope, resilience, and opportunity. As we commemorate World Food Day and Food Security Month, the Western Cape Department of Agriculture reaffirms its commitment to building resilient communities, empowering households, and ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against hunger. We recognise the vital role each of you plays in this mission, and we thank you for your continued support and dedication.”