Kunene community garden a lifeline for residents

Since its handover to the Fransfontein community in 2022, a 16-hectare community garden supported under the Environmental Investment Fund’s IREMA project has become a lifeline for hundreds of households.

Chairperson Martzia Haraes told Namibian Sun last week that the garden has already yielded eight harvests, supplying 350 households with fresh vegetables such as spinach, cabbage and watermelons.

“The community has really benefited,” she said.

Haraes added that the produce also supports local initiatives beyond households.

“The garden has been used during school clean-up campaigns, where we provide vegetables to those participating, and we assist families during funerals,” Haraes said.

“It’s a way for the community to sustain itself while also giving back.”

Skills and knowledge

The garden operates on a rotational system for its 90 beneficiaries, ensuring that new members learn skills from experienced workers while maintaining production. Haraes explained that this approach has helped preserve and build agricultural knowledge within the community.

Funds from produce sales are managed through a dedicated bank account, which covers maintenance, agricultural inputs and beneficiary allowances.

“We try to ensure the garden is sustainable so that it can continue providing for the community year after year,” Haraes said.

Far-reaching benefits

She added that youngsters are pushed to get involved in gardening activities to create opportunities for learning and engagement.

“We want the younger generation to take part and understand how a community project can make a real difference,” she said.

While the garden has faced challenges with water access and pump maintenance, Haraes said recent improvements ensure that irrigation is back on track.

With careful management and continued community involvement, the Fransfontein veggie garden is set to remain a source of food, skills and pride for years to come.