Agribank injects N$50 000 into Kavango horticulture projects

In a major boost for rural food production and community agriculture, Agribank has invested nearly N$50 000 in irrigation equipment and farming materials for two horticulture projects in Kavango East and Kavango West.

The donation targets youth and women farmers battling water shortages and limited agricultural resources.

The sponsorship, valued at approximately N$49 930.13, is expected to strengthen small-scale vegetable production, improve water access and enhance livelihoods in the two regions, where agriculture remains a key source of income and household food security.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Agribank acting Kavango regional branch manager Duskan Mungalisa said the support forms part of the bank’s continued commitment to promoting food security, youth empowerment and sustainable agricultural development in Namibia.

Sebastian Kandyangu Mukoya, a 26-year-old farmer, was one of the two beneficiaries.

Mukoya, who lives in Shakara Village in the Ndonga Linena constituency, specialises in small-scale horticulture production, particularly tomatoes and cabbages.

Mukoya received a water tank irrigation system valued at almost N$25 000 to improve water access and enhance production efficiency amid ongoing climate and water challenges in the region.

“Through his commitment and hard work, Mr Mukoya demonstrates the important role that young people can play in transforming agriculture and creating sustainable livelihoods,” Mungalisa said.

He added that the assistance would help improve production efficiency, particularly in the face of climate change and water shortages affecting many rural farmers.

Women’s collective

The second beneficiary, the Tapeka Lima Tulye Garden Project in Tondoro constituency, Kavango West, received irrigation materials, fencing equipment, water tanks and pipes valued at N$24 975.73.

The project is managed by eight women producing organic vegetables for local communities while contributing to household income and local economic activity.

“This support will help strengthen the project’s production capacity, improve water management and protect garden infrastructure, enabling the beneficiaries to expand their operations and improve productivity,” Mungalisa explained.

He noted that Agribank’s investment in small-scale horticulture projects also seeks to empower communities to become more self-reliant economically.

Speaking at the same event, Kavango East governor Hamunyera Hambyuka commended Agribank for recognising the important role small-scale farmers and community projects play in strengthening local economies and improving livelihoods.

Hambyuka said the support extended to Mukoya would help expand his horticulture activities and address challenges related to farming inputs and equipment.

He also praised the women behind the Tapeka Lima Tulye Garden Project, saying initiatives led by women continue to play a critical role in strengthening household food security and driving community development through agriculture.

“By investing in local farmers and community-based agricultural projects, we are investing in self-reliance, job creation, nutrition and economic empowerment,” Hambyuka said.