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RooftopActiveSince 2019

JFF Rooftop Farm (Jozi Food Farmer)

Johannesburg, South Africa · Operator: JFF Rooftop Farm (Ashleigh Machete & Negin Monkoe)

Overview

A rooftop farm started in 2019 in Braamfontein, central Johannesburg. It turned an unused rooftop into a green oasis and has established more than 15 food gardens across the inner city.

Citizen participation

Two former Wits University students started food gardens on rooftops and in alleyways in the green-starved inner city. Citizens take part through the rooftop farm-café and workshops, learning to grow food in the heart of the city.

Operating model

A small social enterprise run by its founders, supported by a rooftop café, plant and seedling sales, landscaping work and events.

Impact

Spread gardens to more than 15 inner-city rooftops and alleyways with hubs in Braamfontein and Milpark, bringing green space and community to the concrete CBD.

Land tenure

Lease

Operates on leased rooftop space in inner-city buildings, also using various alleyways and rooftops by arrangement.

Crops

  • vegetables
  • herbs

Scale

Rooftop farm and nursery in the Juta Street Precinct, Braamfontein, plus 15+ food gardens across the inner city

Sources(2)

Related cases

JFF Rooftop Farm (Jozi Food Farmer) — Urban Farm DB