Five new food security clusters to strengthen nutrition and sustainability in vulnerable communities
Fortress Real Estate Investments Limited (Fortress REI) has deepened its food security commitment and environmental resilience by expanding its partnership with Food & Trees for Africa (FTA). Over the next six months, Fortress REI will support five new food security clusters, comprising ten food gardens, reinforcing its mission to future-proof communities through smart ESG strategies and sustainable development.
FTA’s Executive Director, Chris Wild, said, “A food-secure future is possible when we invest in sustainable solutions. These clusters are not just about feeding people today, but about empowering communities for generations to come and investing in the education of our youth.”
This expansion builds on a strong legacy. Since its inception, the partnership has fostered 32 thriving food gardens and school-based nutrition initiatives. During the 5-year partnership, Fortress REI also has donated funds to plant 19,527 trees. Ed Mashabane Secondary School’s benchmark-setting eco-cluster initiative, the ESG-driven transformation of Fortress REIT communities, and the expansion of community farms stand as testaments to the partnership’s success. By scaling these efforts, Fortress REI and FTA continue to drive impact where it matters most—creating food-secure environments that benefit both people and the planet.
Addressing South Africa’s food security crisis
South Africa faces a mounting food security crisis, with millions of children experiencing hunger and malnutrition. Poor nutrition directly affects educational outcomes, cognitive development, and overall well-being. By embedding self-sustainable food production within school and community ecosystems, Fortress REI and FTA are able to alleviate immediate food insecurity while laying the foundation for long-term resilience. Over the last 5 years, the partnership has enabled the training of 642 youth and gardeners in agroecology methods, benefitting approximately 46, 433 community members in 16 areas around the country.
Smart ESG in action
These new food security clusters will contribute more than regular nutrition-dense meals for learners and communities. They will serve as hubs for environmental education, agricultural training, and community knowledge sharing. Participants will gain hands-on skills in sustainable agriculture, irrigation management, and responsible land use. The initiative also fosters leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving—key competencies for a future-ready generation.
Integrated into school curricula, these gardens enhance spatial awareness, literacy, and practical knowledge-sharing. At the same time, they will improve soil health, prevent erosion, and promote biodiversity.
“Innovation in ESG means aligning business strategy with social needs. Food security is a critical challenge, and through this partnership, we are taking tangible steps toward Zero Hunger,” said Jodie Ellinor-Dreyer, Head of Corporate Social Investment and Transformation.
