South Africa’s food security crisis is a growing concern, affecting millions of households. In 2021, approximately 2.1 million households experienced hunger, worsened by high unemployment, poverty, and rising living costs. Access to nutritious food is essential for well-being and development, yet South Africa struggles to meet this need. Reel Gardening, founded by Claire Reid Blanckenberg, offers a pioneering solution amid this challenge.
The statistics highlight the severity of the issue. In 2021, 11.6% of South African households reported hunger, with over 2.1 million families lacking essential nutrition. Additionally, 15% of households faced inadequate access to food, and 6% experienced severe food insecurity. According to the World Food Programme, food security means having consistent access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food—a goal that remains out of reach for many in South Africa. Urban areas like Cape Town and Johannesburg are particularly affected, with over half a million households, many with young children, struggling to access nutritious food. The consequences are devastating, leading to malnutrition, stunted growth, and a cycle of poverty that hinders children’s education and development. The elderly and disabled are also disproportionately impacted, often relying on others for food and care.
Reel Gardening’s mission is to make gardening accessible to everyone, regardless of age, skill, or socioeconomic background. Founded by Blanckenberg in 2002, the company revolutionized urban agriculture with its patented seed tape and sachets, simplifying the planting process, reducing waste, and ensuring optimal seed placement. The seed tape, made from biodegradable, organically fertilized paper, breaks down to nourish the soil and saves up to 80% of the water typically used during germination. Expanding beyond soil-based systems, Reel Gardening also incorporates hydroponic and aeroponic methods, offering sustainable and space-efficient solutions for urban gardeners. By enabling individuals to grow their own nutritious food, Reel Gardening addresses food insecurity and promotes healthier living.
In addition to combating hunger, Reel Gardening has a robust social impact. The company’s products are handmade by previously unemployed mothers, creating jobs and contributing to local economic growth. Through its “Garden in a Box” concept, which feeds a family of four, Reel Gardening has made sustainable food production a reality for many. The company has donated over 1.5 million meters of seed tape, reaching more than 3,400 schools and positively impacting 2.4 million people. Reel Gardening’s initiatives have also saved 111 million litres of water and supported 48,100 households, with successful projects in South Africa, Nigeria, and Singapore showcasing its potential for global influence.
Community engagement is at the heart of Reel Gardening’s approach. The company runs training programs that equip individuals with essential gardening skills, fostering local economic development and social cohesion. Testimonials from beneficiaries highlight the company’s transformative impact.
Reel Gardening has changed my life. I can now provide fresh produce for my family and community.- A beneficiary
The founder’s vision goes beyond product innovation. Her goal is to create sustainable change through simple, scalable solutions. In recognition of her leadership, Claire Blanckenberg recently received the 2023 Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award. With continued strategic collaborations through Reel Life, the company’s non-profit arm, Reel Gardening, is set to deepen its impact. Blanckenberg encourages fellow entrepreneurs to “just start” and seek help when needed, emphasizing the importance of perseverance in driving meaningful change.
As the world grapples with food insecurity and climate change, Reel Gardening’s solutions are more relevant than ever. By promoting sustainable urban agriculture, Claire Blanckenberg empowers individuals to reconnect with nature and cultivate a healthier, more sustainable future.
