Prisca Anyolo leads climate-smart food drive at Dordabis

Miss Namibia 2024, Prisca Anyolo, is using her crown for more than pageantry. Through her NGO, Crowning Gardens, she has launched a grassroots initiative to tackle hunger and malnutrition in one of Namibia’s most vulnerable communities. Partnering with Santam Namibia and Urban Harvest, Anyolo has introduced the Dordabis Project – a climate-smart food production scheme that combines hydroponics and aquaponics.Dordabis, about 90 minutes east of Windhoek, is marked by poverty and tough climatic conditions that leave many residents facing food insecurity.For Anyolo, the project is about more than putting food on the table. It is about resilience, education, and independence.“Namibia’s arid climate makes growing food a challenge,” she explained. “We want to show that these communities can move away from depending only on donations and instead learn how to feed themselves.”The initiative builds on a small soil-based garden already started by the community. By adding advanced, technology-driven systems, it creates a sustainable model for food security. The hydroponic unit, structured around a six-metre A-frame with 300 grow holes, is expected to yield up to 250 heads of lettuce or similar greens per cycle. Alongside it, the aquaponic system will feature six media bed units, each producing 4–5 kg of fish plus a variety of vegetables. Together, these methods supply protein and fresh produce while using up to 90% less water than conventional farming.Except for food production, the project emphasises skills development. Community members will take part in workshops on crop cycles, fish care, record-keeping, and entrepreneurship. A group of “garden champions” from Dordabis will also receive mentorship and internships at Urban Harvest’s Windhoek facility, ensuring the knowledge is retained and passed on locally.Urban Harvest co-founder Deane Spall praised the community’s determination. “Too many initiatives collapse without local buy-in. The intent shown by Dordabis residents is what makes this project different – it has the foundation for long-term success,” he said.For Santam Namibia, the initiative reflects its broader mission to make a lasting impact. CEO Franco Feris explained: “The Dordabis Project is about enabling communities to take ownership of their food security, build skills, and create long-term opportunities. Rooted in sustainability and empowerment, this paves the way for future generations to thrive.”

Prisca Anyolo leads climate-smart food drive at Dordabis

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Namibian Sun 2026-03-26

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Prisca Anyolo leads climate-smart food drive at Dordabis

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Namibian Sun 2026-03-26

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