Matheus David

Foibe Sakaria, a Windhoek resident, could not contain her joy as she shared how support from the Nutrition and Food Security Alliance of Namibia (NAFSAN) helped her move from unemployment to self-sufficiency.

Sakaria was speaking at a meeting recently held at Protea Hotel in Windhoek to launch the collaboration between NAFSAN and Community-Based Organisations (CBOs).

The organisations are empowering and equipping community members in predominantly informal urban settlements in the Omaheke, Hardap, Otjozondjupa and Khomas regions. Through the collaboration, beneficiaries are assisted to set up backyard gardens, educated on the importance and long-term impact of nutrition, and taught how to maintain a healthier diet.

As a beneficiary who has already been empowered, Sakaria said she is now self-employed, and her garden – set up with NAFSAN’s help – has become both a source of food and income for her family.

“I now produce my own food and sustain myself. It has enabled me to become an entrepreneur and empower others in my community,” she said.

“Providing nutritious food to the most vulnerable in our community is a matter of survival. We cannot ignore this responsibility,” said Pineas Kandjii from the Hoachanas Clinic Health Committee in Hardap.

According to NAFSAN’s Head of Projects, Maria Kandjungu, the project plays a role in bridging communities and government. “Our project advocates policies and develops materials. We ensure civil society voices are represented in the government agenda on food security,” she explained.

Simon Mukena, a DAPP TCE field officer, described how their programme combines health services with food awareness. “We are ready to facilitate HIV testing and counselling, TB screening, and educate communities on dietary nutrition and healthy lifestyles,” he said.

For NAFSAN, such commitments must be felt at the grassroots level. The alliance continues to push for enabling environments that strengthen food systems and ensure civil society remains part of decision-making processes.

“Strong communities start with strong nutrition,” Kandjungu said. “Food security and optimal nutrition for all are urgent goals that demand both government leadership and grassroots mobilisation.”

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Photo: Heather Erdmann