Couple’s crop hopes wilt amid soaring temperatures

A retired Oshikoto couple inspired by a resilient earth dam that holds water all year round started their first backyard gardening venture on their 1.5-hectare plot this year, but record temperatures have scorched their hopes of a bumper harvest.In an interview with Namibian Sun this week, Laina and Max Nekongo spoke about the hard work they have put into their garden over the past few months.While Max’s maize is looking promising, Laina is less optimistic about her fruits and vegetables.The couple planted a variety, including spinach, tomatoes, green peppers and carrots, as well as strawberries and maize, on their land in Oniihwa B Village in the Onayena constituency.Laina said she had initially been hopeful of a bountiful harvest, particularly of spinach, which is in strong demand among customers. But successive heatwaves have left her with little surplus to sell.“People are always asking me if I have spinach, but unfortunately, I only have a small quantity available,” she said. “The rest have been significantly affected by the intense heat.”She is doubtful of a successful harvest this season.“The tomatoes, carrots, and green peppers have suffered severe damage and will not recover,” Laina said.The couple plan to time their planting better next year to cut their losses.“We have learned an important lesson. Next year, we will plant during the right season to ensure a successful harvest,” she said.Nevertheless, she said despite the setbacks, “we are still managing to sell the little spinach we have to local cuca shops in Onayena, although the effort we've devoted to this garden has been substantial”.A more optimistic outlookHer husband, Max, put his energy into maize, which he planted for the first time in July this year.Also drawn by the dam’s year-round water, he hopes to harvest around ten 50-kilogram bags."My primary goal is to feed my family, send a 50-kilogram bag to the kids in Windhoek, and then sell any surplus," he told Namibian Sun.“Any crop can thrive if you put in the effort,” he added.Pleased with the maize trial, he said he intends to expand the plot next year to boost production for both the family and for sale.After the harvest, he plans to crush the maize stalks into feed for his animals so that nothing goes to waste.For now the stalks will only feed his animals, but once he expands he intends to sell them to fellow farmers.Max said he is in contact with agriculture ministry officials in Onayena for support and guidance whenever needed. He encouraged young people to approach the ministry’s offices in their regions to explore farming opportunities."Fellow Namibians, invest in farming to provide food for your families year-round, and sell any surplus to generate income and contribute to our community," he urged.Laina also appealed for help to acquire shade netting to protect their crops from the oppressive heat.

Couple’s crop hopes wilt amid soaring temperatures

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Namibian Sun 2026-11-13

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Couple’s crop hopes wilt amid soaring temperatures

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Namibian Sun 2026-11-13

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