Rundu entrepreneur gives back through school fumigation

Rundu entrepreneur Joseph Katjiri, owner of Joseph Pest Control, fumigated the kitchen at the Katjinakatji Senior Secondary School hostel earlier this month as part of his company’s community outreach efforts.

The move follows a suspected food poisoning incident in March that affected more than 100 learners and brought renewed focus to hygiene and sanitation at the school.

Katjiri said he decided to volunteer his company’s services after learning about the situation.

“After hearing of the food poisoning incident, I decided to volunteer and give the kitchen a full fumigation. I reached out to the Kavango West Regional Council and they welcomed my assistance,” he said.

He explained that, in his view, community involvement forms part of his responsibility.

“As entrepreneurs, we must also look at how we can solve problems in our communities, not just run businesses,” he said.

The company covered all costs, including chemicals, transport, labour, and other operational expenses, amounting to a total of N$6 500.

Katjiri said the team committed their time and resources to ensure that the school’s kitchen and surrounding areas were properly fumigated.

He added that the response from the school community was encouraging, noting that staff appreciated the swift intervention. “It was important for us to respond quickly and make sure the school is supported. Seeing the appreciation motivates us to continue doing more,” he said.

For the public good

Hostel catering matron Zakiyere Mbambi expressed appreciation for the initiative.

“We are really grateful for the support. It means a lot to the school community, especially our learners. The hostel houses many children, so this kind of assistance helps us a great deal in maintaining a safe and clean environment.”

The hostel currently accommodates 498 learners, Mbambi said.

This is not the first time Joseph Pest Control has given back to the community.

Last year, the fumigation company donated sanitary pads and disposable nappies valued at N$5 000 to the maternity ward at Intermediate Hospital Rundu to support young mothers. In addition, the company fumigated parts of the hospital to improve hygiene conditions.

“Giving back is part of who we are as a company. When we started, we decided that whenever we grow, the community must also feel that growth. That is why we don’t only focus on business but also on helping where we can,” Katjiri said.

Sharing success

He added that the company is committed to working alongside government efforts to strengthen public services.

“We want to meet the government halfway and assist where we can. There is only so much that can be done from one side, but when we all contribute, we make a real difference in our communities,” he said.

“Essentially, our efforts are towards meeting the government halfway. We believe we can all assist where we can.”

Katjiri added that the company is in the process of identifying other schools that may need similar support.

“This would be the perfect time, especially now that schools are closed for the holidays."