Information courtesy of Safe Spaces Organization, including Allan C'oredo, Awesome Blossoms Project Manager
Safe Spaces Organization, a community-based organization in Mathare, has undertaken a pioneering project with FAWCO called “Awesome Blossoms” to address food security and empower marginalized girls and women. Through the implementation of hydroponic food systems in urban areas, the organization aims to enhance nutrition uptake, entrepreneurship skills and income generation. Additionally, Safe Spaces Organization plans to collaborate with schools to extend these systems and support their meal programs. To ensure project success, the organization has employed various strategic awareness activities within the community.
Awareness Activities:
Community meetings: Safe Spaces Organization successfully organized five community meetings that involved local leaders, organizations and residents. These meetings provided a valuable platform to discuss the benefits of urban farming, emphasizing its potential to improve food security and health in Mathare. Moreover, the organization collected valuable feedback and identified local solutions for effective project implementation.
- Farm visits: Safe Spaces Organization opened the doors of its two pilot urban farms to the community, inviting residents to witness the advantages of urban farming firsthand. Guided tours were conducted to educate visitors on urban farming techniques, highlighting the health and economic benefits associated with consuming locally grown produce. These immersive experiences facilitated a deeper understanding and appreciation for the Awesome Blossoms initiative.
- Targeted SMS campaign: Safe Spaces Organization developed a targeted SMS campaign to reach community members with a high likelihood of interest in urban farming. Leveraging a database of over 2,500 individuals, the organization disseminated an SMS advertisement that effectively conveyed the essence of Awesome Blossoms and its benefits.
- Short video: A captivating short video showcasing the essence of the Awesome Blossoms project was circulated on WhatsApp among community members with smartphones. This engaging medium helped to visually illustrate the project’s goals and impact, generating further interest and support.
Safe Spaces Organization’s strategic efforts to create awareness about the Awesome Blossoms project in Mathare have yielded remarkable results. Through community meetings, farm visits, targeted SMS campaigns, and captivating videos, the organization effectively communicated the benefits of urban farming, food security and empowerment for women. The overwhelming response, with over 800 women expressing interest in the project, demonstrates the positive impact of these awareness activities. Safe Spaces Organization remains committed to driving sustainable change and fostering a brighter future for the Mathare community through Awesome Blossoms.
