Four hundred learners from Hausiku Selma Nangura Primary School, in the Kavango West Region, will benefit from the Building Brighter Tomorrows project.
This joint initiative, co-funded by the Commonwealth, UNFPA, and WFP, delivers integrated health, protection, nutrition, and education support to vulnerable learners and communities.
The project addresses the urgent needs of those affected by drought, food insecurity, and socio-economic hardship in the Kavango West Region.
"When we first visited this community, we saw your strength. But we also saw the challenges you face every day – drought, hunger, limited health services, and the struggle to keep every child healthy and in school. Today, we return not with empty promises but with proof of partnership. This project is a beautiful example of what happens when we work together."
The school and the Mpungu community received garden tools, poultry housing, irrigation and water systems, food storage and handling equipment, among others.
"The success of this project will not be measured by today's event. It will be measured at lunchtime. If a child receives a better meal, more nutritious, more reliable, and produced with dignity, then we have succeeded," said Simon Denhere, Country Director for the World Food Programme.
The initiative began with a clear and practical commitment from the Commonwealth Heads of Mission to invest in children and communities.
United Nations Resident Coordinator Hopolong Phororo explained that "The initiative is fully aligned with Namibia's Sixth National Development Plan and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2025-2029. It contributes to human development, food and nutrition security, community resilience, and gender equality, while advancing progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. At the same time, it reminds us that gaps remain."
Titus Shiudifonya, a councillor for the Mpungu Constituency, talked about how important these kinds of development projects are. "Projects such as this one are a clear demonstration that through collaboration, we can overcome barriers and create meaningful change. We must ensure that these facilities are utilised effectively, maintained responsibly, and complemented by quality teaching, strong leadership, and active community involvement."
The school requested the Directorate of Education to assist with security services and water supply, as the school depends on a community borehole, which is not reliable.