The Tiyimeleni Community Nursery has received an investment of more than R400,000 aimed at improving its operations, with the project creating an opportunity for the community enterprise to strengthen its business activities and explore ways to generate sustainable income.
The nursery, located in Belfast near the Kruger National Park and outside the Paul Kruger Gate, benefited from the KNP Centenary Legacy Project, which forms part of the park’s efforts to promote inclusive conservation and benefit surrounding communities.
Kruger National Park spokesperson Reynold Thakhuli said the challenge now is to turn the improved infrastructure into a viable business that can attract customers, increase production and potentially create employment opportunities.
“The investment allows us to improve our operations and look at ways to grow the nursery. Our focus is on making sure that the facilities help us develop the business and generate income,” he said.
The project included a 15m by 35m greenhouse, a shelter for operational activities, a storeroom and an office. The nursery also received paving, signage, garden tools, plant bags, irrigation pipes and two 5,000-litre water tanks.
These improvements provide infrastructure to support growing activities and day-to-day operations. However, the nursery’s ability to benefit financially will also depend on its access to markets and demand for its products.
“Having the necessary facilities is important, but we also need to reach more customers and identify markets where we can sell our products consistently,” said Thakhuli.
Local resident Amukelani Dube said projects like this can make a difference when they create opportunities for local people.
“We would like to see the nursery grow and provide more opportunities for people in the area,” Dube said.
The project also included two days of business and computer training for employees through the Good Work Foundation. The project leader received a laptop and mobile phone to support business management.
The training is intended to strengthen the nursery’s ability to manage its activities, while the equipment can assist with administration and communication.
“The training can help us improve how we manage our work and understand what is needed to grow the nursery. We hope to apply these skills as the business develops,” said Charles Mdluli, a founder of the Tiyimeleni community nursery.
The investment forms part of KNP’s centenary legacy projects, but the longer-term impact will depend on whether the nursery can translate the support into increased production, reliable sales and sustainable income.
“Our long-term goal is to grow the nursery, reach more customers and create opportunities for the surrounding community,” said Thakhuli.
