The Target Project Awesome Blossoms Safe Spaces is expanding its project objectives!
In reaching our fundraising goal with so much time remaining in this Environment Target cycle, we have the oppertunity to do more to support Awesome Blossoms Safe Spaces and their longer-term sustainablity. Together, Awesome Blossoms, FAWCO and The FAWCO Foundation have agreed that the next course of action is a permanent home for the vertical farms. This is in response to the challenges faced by the project in recent months.
Specific Challenges Faced
- Leadership changes and vision misalignment: The frequent turnover of school leadership at the schools housing the farms, particularly headteachers, poses a significant challenge as new leaders may not share the same vision for urban farming. Additionally, changes in school boards further complicate matters, necessitating constant reorientation efforts.
- Contractual uncertainty: Despite having contracts with schools, there is uncertainty regarding the validity of these agreements. Changes in school leadership often lead to contracts being considered null and void, requiring continuous efforts to maintain productive relationships with new heads and boards.
- Limitations on structural development: Operating on leased land restricts the ability to make substantial structural developments to support urban farming activities. Renewal uncertainties make it challenging to invest in infrastructure that may not be utilized in the long term.
What's next? Sustainability and Security!
Now that we have reached our initial fundraising goal, we have a new goal, not only for the sustainability of the project but for long-term sustainability of the organization by enabling Awesome Blossoms Safe Spaces to acquire a permanent home. The new fundraising goal will now expand to support the necessary steps to:
- Acquire suitable land: Secure a plot of land (minimum 80 x 50m) in either Kikuyu, Zambezi or Uthiru for the establishment of sustainable vertical farming systems. This land should meet criteria such as accessibility, proximity to target communities and availability of necessary infrastructure.
- Develop infrastructure: Uninstall the current farm infrastructure in the existing farms. The uninstalled hydroponic equipment will be moved to the new parcel of land. These structures will support vertical farming activities and ensure optimal production efficiency.
- Ensure Long-Term Viability: The new farm offers significant growth potential. Owning the land allows Safe Spaces to expand operations, with the farm having the capacity to house additional vertical systems. Additionally, the business model allocates 80% of the profits from Awesome Blossoms to fund Safe Spaces Programs and 20% for expansion. This provides an opportunity to incrementally add more vertical gardens each year, enhancing their sustainability and impact.
