The dream of transforming Kavango West into an agricultural hub is becoming a reality as agricultural donations continue to reach the region. The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations has supplied tools like water tanks, solar systems, watering cans, and wheelbarrows to at least 25 small-scale horticulture producers.
Kavango West Governor, Sirkka Ausiku, said despite being situated near the river, climate change has highlighted the need to shift to irrigation systems to achieve the region's goal of becoming green, set a decade ago.
The purpose of investing in agriculture, apart from addressing food security, is also to reduce unemployment and eradicate poverty in the region.
"The time we just started as a region, we then have an initiative in Kavango West going green, targeting the smaller farmers, and doing horticulture production. And because of climate change, we have to move to irrigation. Of course, we have good soil; we have the river, but we have to do irrigation with proper equipment."
Ausiku mentioned that the region will host an agriculture conference in November, with farmers as the primary participants.
"Dr. Diao, we also want our farmers to get a market, especially our youth; they are ready to engage in agriculture, but without a market sometimes discourages them from producing, and we really want to have a market. For their product. And we are also planning around November to have a conference where the farmers tell their story to our key stakeholders."
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations Country Representative in Namibia highlighted the generous donation of tools provided to address the drought affecting Namibia.
Dr. Qingyun Diao expressed gratitude to the Government of Japan for contributing N$14 million to combat food insecurity in Ohangwena and the two Kavango Regions.
"These tools and systems will enable our smallholder farmers to optimise water use, ensuring that their crops can thrive even in the most challenging conditions. By adopting sustainable farming practices and efficient irrigation methods, farmers can mitigate the impacts of drought and contribute to a food-secure Namibia."
One of the beneficiaries, Michael Kambinda, expressed his gratitude to the donors for their support and urged fellow recipients to use the tools wisely to ensure their longevity.
"I would like to thank the sponsors that have assisted us with equipment today. And encourage other beneficiaries that we should take care of the equipment we received today. And we have to make good use of the equipment so that they last longer."