Vhungu Vhungu green scheme calls for solar power

The Vhungu Vhungu Green Scheme is calling on the agriculture ministry to urgently implement a solar power plant at the scheme, citing frequent electricity outages that threaten maize production and risk wasting valuable inputs.

Crop production officer Kashokora Pontianus told Namibian Sun that the scheme first requested support for solar power in 2022.

“A team was sent to assess the site and draw up plans for the solar installation,” he explained last week. “But to date, nothing has been installed. We are still struggling with power outages that can destroy fertilisers and chemicals if electricity goes off at the wrong time.”

The scheme, located in Kavango East region, has steadily increased output. This season, 311 hectares of maize have been planted, with an expected harvest of 10 tonnes, up from 8 tonnes last year. The scheme is also a growing source of seasonal employment, with casual workers expected to rise from 20 to potentially 100 during peak periods.

Government support, particularly following a visit from President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah last year, has significantly boosted capacity.

Since then, the scheme has received seven tractors, including three large tractors and four smaller implements from Mashare and Lemke, as well as a combine harvester and other essential farming equipment. These additions have allowed for faster planting, more efficient harvesting and greater involvement of small-scale farmers, six of whom are currently participating.

Despite these advances, Kashokora emphasised that mechanisation alone cannot solve the problem. “We are producing more, but without stable electricity, our inputs are at risk, and production can be cut in a single day,” he warned.

He also raised concerns over locust infestations, with swarms recently observed near the scheme’s office. “If they move into the fields, it could become a major problem,” he said, urging immediate intervention from agricultural authorities.

Reliable electricity crucial to success

The scheme’s main market is Bokomo and Namib Mills, which purchases maize for meal production. Reliable electricity would ensure harvested crops reach the market safely and prevent the waste of fertilisers and chemicals caused by unexpected blackouts.

Kashokora praised government’s support, noting that since the president’s visit, production conditions have improved significantly.

Yet he stressed that a solar-powered energy solution is critical to protect crops and maximise mechanisation benefits. “The president has shown seriousness about agriculture, and we are committed to increasing production,” he said. “But we need reliable electricity. A solar plant would solve many of these problems and secure our harvest.”

With mechanisation, small-scale farmer integration and the potential for solar-powered energy, the Vhungu Vhungu Green Scheme aims to continue its upward trajectory, boosting maize production, protecting crops and creating more employment opportunities for the local community.

WATCH: Vhungu Vhungu Green Scheme's crop production officer discusses the challenge of locusts on production output.

https://q.my.na/STUP