The role of food gardens in empowering women: A study of Makotse Women’s Club in Limpopo

The article explores the role that food gardens can play in contributing to the empowerment of rural South African women. The goal of the study was to focus on likely other benefits - beyond economic advantages - realised by women who participate in the food gardens project. The study was essentially descriptive and qualitative in nature, and focused on a group of women working on a food gardens project in rural Limpopo. Through extensive fieldwork comprising observation and interviews, data were collected on the women’s biographical characteristics, their knowledge of HIV and AIDS, their perceptions of women’s roles, and their experiences of working in the food gardens. Findings indicate that the women gained knowledge and skills at the project that helped them earn a modest income and become more knowledgeable about such issues as HIV and AIDS. Participation in the food gardens encouraged a sense of community, self-worth and indeed a sense of belonging. Although many of the women still found it difficult to deal with issues such as male power and HIV-testing, participation validated their experiences and promoted positive self-perception. They felt able to talk about sex and condom use with their husbands and male partners. The experience offered them opportunities for empowerment via the development of agricultural skills, gaining acceptance amongst peers, building confidence in speaking out and starting to define collective goals.