Disability-inclusive community development: A case of a community garden in Limpopo province in South Africa

Disability-inclusive community development: A case of a community garden in Limpopo province in South Africa

Blog Article

spitfire sapphires wheels Background: Persons with disabilities living in rural areas are marginalised and excluded in most developmental initiatives in South Africa.They face many economic, political and social problems; hence, improving their quality of life is a daunting and challenging task which needs interventions from both the state and non-governmental stakeholders.Objectives: This study aimed to examine the role played by community gardens in rural Limpopo province in uplifting the lives of persons living with disabilities as well as their communities as a whole.

Its main objectives were to assess the social and economic benefits they have provided to this group of people.Method: A qualitative research design was used for this study.Twenty-one participants were identified through purposive sampling.

They were made up of people with disabilities, officials from Departments of Agriculture and Social Development.Face-to-face interviews were used to collect data which was analysed thematically.Results: Key results ad24ce were that community gardens have contributed to the economic and social well-being of persons with disabilities.

They have assisted them with income to supplement their social grants.They also created jobs for their members and contributed to improved livelihoods of their families.Conclusion: The study demonstrated that people with disabilities are capable people who, if given the necessary support, can transform their livelihoods both socially and economically.

The study recommends that a disability access audit be conducted to resolve the accessibility challenges of the garden.