The Capricorn Foundation has partnered with Development Aid from People to People (DAPP) Namibia to support the project titled ‘Gardening to Counter Prevailing Malnutrition in the Omusati region’.
The initiative aligns with the Capricorn Foundation’s focus on economic development and vulnerability.
Its goal is to promote food security, self-sufficiency and improved nutritional well-being in vulnerable communities. The foundation has contributed N$400000 to fund the project’s operations, which include providing trees, seedlings, essential gardening tools and capacity-building training.
During a recent visit to Outapi, Capricorn noted the project’s remarkable progress in promoting sustainable agriculture, and increasing household food production.
This initiative, which encompasses the Anamulenge and Ogongo constituencies, engages 200 households across 10 community clusters. It encourages the establishment of backyard gardens in villages such as Omahalya, Ehungaelo and Omunghozi.
To monitor the project’s success, the Capricorn Foundation conducts regular community meetings, assesses food security and evaluates skills training programmes.
“This project is more than just gardens. It is about empowering families and communities to thrive. With Capricorn Foundation’s support, we equip households with the skills and knowledge to ensure year-round food availability, and an understanding of nutrition for better health,” said Kirsten Moeller Jensen, head of the DAPP national partnership team.
Elizabeth Hinamwaami, a project beneficiary, highlighted the project’s impact, saying “Before the gardening project, I would wait for the rainy season to plant mahangu. Now, I can grow a variety of vegetables year-round, which ensures nutritious meals for my family, and allows me to share with neighbours”.
Project impact
The project’s achievements in both the Anamulenge and Ogongo constituencies reflect the Capricorn Foundation’s commitment to sustainable development and economic resilience.
About 210 households were registered and 175 gardens were established with vegetables like beetroots, carrots, onions, kale, spinach, green peppers, chillis, eggplants, potatoes, tomatoes and herbs like coriander, parsley, dill and basil.
A total of 150 fruit tree saplings, including mango, guava, lemon, pomegranate, moringa and neem trees, were distributed and planted, enhancing nutrition and environmental conservation.
About 50 households received gardening tools, 11 were provided with shade nets, one received a wheelbarrow, and 50 received watering cans. The project focuses on climate-friendly practices like companion planting and composting.
These techniques have improved soil quality, and increased crop variety. Community members have also received training in pest management and nutrition.
As a result, they have gained skills that help them maintain their gardens, and support each other in ensuring food security.
“As a connector of positive change, the Capricorn Foundation is dedicated to promoting sustainable community development and economic advancement. The foundation supports communities by ensuring access to healthy food, even in the face of environmental challenges. By empowering community members to share knowledge and cultivate sustainable gardens, we can help build resilience and self-sufficiency in our rural communities,” stated Veripura Muukua, Capricorn Foundation coordinator.