The Tjirakana Fish Farm project in Tondoro Constituency, Kavango West Region, has been handed over to the community.

The N$2 million project was funded by the Kavango West Regional Council to promote food security, create income opportunities and address rural poverty.

Established in 2017 with seven members, the Tjirakana Fish Farm project was initiated to address poverty, unemployment, low household incomes and food insecurity in the community.

The project uses fish farming as a means of generating income and supporting food production.

Project member Elifas Kandjimi says four fish ponds have been constructed, with approximately 4 000 fingerlings stocked in two of them.

The project has also received fish feed, equipment, training, electricity and a water pump.

"Since receiving support, the project has made important progress towards its goal of establishing a productive fish farming enterprise. One of the significant milestones achieved is the construction of four fish ponds, which provide the infrastructure necessary for fish production. Furthermore, the project has stocked approximately 4,000 fingerlings in the two ponds. This is an important step towards establishing fish production capacity and creating a foundation for future income generation and food security."

Kandjimi acknowledged the Kavango West Regional Council for funding the construction of the ponds, procurement of fingerlings, fish feed and equipment, as well as training for project members.

Tondoro Constituency Councillor Joseph Sikongo said the project's progress would depend on the commitment, teamwork and accountability of its members.

Councillor Joseph Sikongo emphasised that receiving financial support is only the beginning; meanwhile, the success of the project depends on the commitment, teamwork, transparency, accountability and dedication by team members.

"We have to work hard. We must work as if we are going to die tomorrow so that those that we are going to leave behind will have food on the table. All businesses. If there's a community business, if there's a group business, the only serious challenge is division. If you are divided, you will fall. But if you are together, that business will flourish. Some people from the community can come and tease you and laugh at you. Let that not be your discouragement. Let that be your encouragement."

Sikongo also acknowledged residents involved in gardening along the river and encouraged people in Tondoro Constituency to use available natural resources to address poverty and unemployment.