How Are a Nurse's African Farming Roots Transforming a Community Garden?

Grace Luwemba Kamwendo is combining her nursing skills with her agricultural background to establish a community allotment in North Wales. Known affectionately as "Madam Topsoil," Grace uses her farming knowledge from Malawi to promote sustainable gardening practices that benefit local communities.

Last updated: 07 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Grace Luwemba Kamwendo is leveraging her farming skills to set up a community allotment in North Wales.
• She employs traditional methods from her Malawian heritage to promote sustainable gardening.
• Grace advocates for the importance of seed selection and effective growing techniques.
• Her community work aims to support diverse groups in accessing fresh produce.
• Gardening has therapeutic benefits for Grace, helping her switch off from her nursing duties during the pandemic.

Grace's Journey: From Malawi to North Wales

At 42 years old, Grace Luwemba Kamwendo, a nurse based in Rhyl, has become an inspiring figure in her community. Her roots trace back to Malawi, where she learned essential agricultural skills from her grandfather, a figure she describes as her mentor. "Granddad was amazing and had a collection of seeds," Grace recalls, highlighting her understanding of the significance of seed selection and germination.

Bringing Farming Traditions to a New Environment

In her new role with Clwyd Alyn Housing Association, Grace is tasked with advising on the establishment of a community allotment in Garden City, Flintshire. This initiative aims to provide fresh produce to local residents, particularly those from diverse backgrounds who may find it challenging to access familiar ingredients.

Community Development Officer Ricky Markendale expressed the value of Grace's input: "She gave us ideas on what foods might work if we're trying to meet the needs of other diverse communities." Grace’s experience in Malawi equips her with a unique perspective on gardening, allowing her to adapt traditional methods to the Welsh climate.

Adapting to New Ways of Gardening

Grace acknowledges the differences in growing conditions between Malawi and Wales. The contrasting climates and soil types require her to modify her approach. "I've been adapting to new ways," she explains, employing techniques such as drip irrigation, polytunnels, and greenhouses to optimise her gardening efforts.

Despite these challenges, Grace remains optimistic about gardening, believing that anyone can cultivate their own food. "It's just a matter of a little bit of soil, a little pot, a little bit of water, some sunshine, and some seeds. Something will come out," she assures. Her enthusiasm for gardening shines through as she shares her experiences with local residents.

Maximising Resources: A Sustainable Approach

Grace's gardening philosophy extends beyond mere cultivation; she aims to minimise waste. Penny Pearce-Whitby, a fellow gardener from the charity Brighter Futures, highlights Grace's innovative approach: "Whereas we would plant pumpkins traditionally for Halloween, and use the fruit, she uses the leaves so none of the plants go to waste." This perspective aligns with the broader goals of the community allotment, which seeks to maximise the use of available resources.

The Therapeutic Benefits of Gardening

For Grace, gardening serves as a therapeutic outlet amidst her nursing career, especially during the challenging times of the pandemic. "It's nice to get home and think about something else," she reflects. The process of nurturing plants provides her with a sense of peace and satisfaction. "If it's helping the community, I am very happy," Grace adds, emphasising her commitment to service.

Inspiring the Community

Grace's work in Flintshire has not only helped her grow vegetables but has also inspired others to engage in gardening. Ricky Martendale notes, "She's brought such value to ourselves, but also to other people with her gentle nature." Grace's ability to connect with people encourages them to participate and learn about gardening, fostering a sense of community.

What’s Next for Grace and the Allotment?

As her influence grows, Grace is set to expand her gardening efforts closer to her home in Rhyl. Clwyd Alyn Housing is developing a new area for her to cultivate vegetables, allowing her to continue her mission of promoting sustainable gardening practices. Her journey exemplifies how individuals can leverage their skills and experiences to create positive change within their communities.

Grace’s story is a testament to the power of gardening as a means of fostering community connections and promoting sustainability. As more people discover the joys of growing their own food, the potential for community allotments to enrich lives becomes increasingly evident. How might your own gardening efforts contribute to your community's well-being? #CommunityGardening #SustainableLiving #MalawiToWales

FAQs

What inspired Grace Luwemba Kamwendo to start a community allotment?

Grace was inspired by her upbringing in Malawi, where she learned valuable gardening skills from her grandfather. She aims to share this knowledge with her community in North Wales.

What types of vegetables does Grace grow?

Grace grows various vegetables, including kale, pumpkins, tomatoes, and cucumbers, using methods learned from her grandfather in Malawi.

How does Grace adapt her gardening techniques to the Welsh climate?

Grace adapts her techniques by implementing modern methods such as drip irrigation, polytunnels, and greenhouses to suit the different climate and soil conditions in Wales.

What are the benefits of community gardening?

Community gardening promotes social interaction, provides access to fresh produce, fosters sustainability, and encourages a sense of belonging among participants.

How can someone start their own garden?

Starting a garden requires a small amount of soil, a pot, water, sunlight, and seeds. With patience and care, anyone can grow their own food.