RUNDU – In a major boost to regional food security, Kavango East governor Hamunyera Hambyuka handed over agricultural materials worth nearly N$50 000 to local farmers.
He urged the beneficiaries to drive self-reliance and community empowerment. The donation, which comprised irrigation materials, pipes, fencing, water pumps and a waters tank, was funded by Agribank. It targets small-scale horticulture in both the Kavango East and Kavango West regions to alleviate poverty and stimulate local economies. Sebastian Kandyangu Mukoya from Shakara village in the Ndonga Linena constituency received inputs and equipment valued at N$24 954.40. Additionally, the Tapeka Lima Tulye Garden Project, an eight-woman cooperative in the Kavango West’s Tondoro constituency, received N$24 975.73 worth of irrigation systems, water tanks, piping and fencing materials.
Speaking during the handover event, Hambyuka praised the financial institution for recognising the critical role played by smallholder farmers.
“This support will not only benefit him and his family but will also contribute to food production and poverty reduction within the community,” Hambyuka said regarding Mukoya’s grant.
Turning his attention to the women-led cooperative in Kavango West, the governor highlighted the transformative power of targeted agricultural aid.
“Initiatives such as this one are important examples of how women continue to drive household food security and community development through agriculture,” he noted. Acting Agribank regional manager for Kavango East and Kavango West Dusken Mungalisa said the donation forms part of the bank’s continued commitment to promoting food security, youth empowerment and sustainable agriculture in Namibia.
“Agribank is pleased to hand over water tanks and irrigation systems to support the two beneficiaries’ farming activities. This assistance will contribute towards improving water access and enhancing production efficiency. This handover reflects Agribank’s ongoing commitment to supporting emerging farmers, women and youth in agriculture. The bank recognises that agriculture remains a driver of economic growth, employment creation and poverty reduction, amongst others,” “With this donation, I am going to work hard, because I know that, through farming, I will be able to sustain my family, including supporting my children’s education and also create employment. I’m grateful to the bank for the support,’’ said one of the beneficiaries, Sebastian Mukoya.