NCS chief inspects Katima prison irrigation project

Raphael Tuhafeni Hamunyela, the commissioner-general of the Namibian Correctional Service (NCS), visited the Katima Mulilo Correctional Facility last week to inspect progress on the installation of a new irrigation system intended to boost agricultural production.

The inspection took place on Wednesday at the facility's farmland in the Zambezi region, where the NCS is expanding its farming operations.

Hamunyela was briefed on the progress of the project, with officials confirming that seven centre-pivot irrigation systems have already been installed. The systems are currently awaiting water connection before they can become operational.

Hamunyela said the goal is to complete the entire installation by the end of March or early April this year.

The irrigation project forms part of the correctional service’s broader efforts to strengthen food production at its facilities and support self-sufficiency initiatives within the institution.

While at the facility, Hamunyela also met with correctional staff members, urging them to prioritise teamwork to ensure the success of the organisation.

He emphasised that collaboration among staff is key to achieving collective goals and strengthening the institution’s performance.

“Working together rather than in isolation drives an organisation towards success and collective victory,” he said.

Hamunyela is expected to visit the Divundu Correctional Facility next to assess the maize plantation and engage with correctional staff members at the facility.