Auleria Wakudumo 

In Ekamba B village in the Oshikoto region, a small commercial farmer is proving that determination and hard work can turn a small garden into a source of nourishment for the entire town. 

Penda II Nantinda, the mind behind Pronego Green Farm, has proven that a small garden, guided by hard work and knowledge, can feed more than just community members; it can feed towns. 

Nantinda’s journey began in 2022 with potatoes. Eager but inexperienced, he faced his first harsh lesson when his tubers failed, costing him thousands of dollars. 

“It hurt a lot, but I knew this was only the beginning. That early failure became the motivation to learn, adapt, and grow,” he recalls. 

Leaning from that seatback, Nantinda pivoted. In 2023, he launched his horticulture project with a clear vision. He planted tomatoes, spinach, beetroot, cabbages, green peppers, and chillies. During the rainy season, his farm thrives with red sorghum, white and yellow maize, pumpkin, and other crops. Recognising that knowledge is as vital as labour, he ensured his three farm workers attended agricultural training, emphasising that those working the soil must understand how to nurture it. 

The results have been remarkable. Today, Pronego Green Farm harvests up to 50 crates of tomatoes monthly and supplies major stores, including Model (formerly Pick n Pay) and Rani Group in Ondangwa. Beyond business success, Nantinda finds pride in feeding vulnerable members of his community and supporting relatives. 

However, the journey has not been without obstacles. Water costs remain high, as the farm depends on the NamWater pipeline. Pests occasionally affect crops, and his first application for a borehole went unanswered. Still, Nantinda remains undeterred. He plans to reapply for a borehole, confident that it will reduce expenses and enable his farm to grow even further. At a recent agricultural youth engagement meeting in Oniipa, he shared his story with aspiring farmers. He encouraged young people to pursue agriculture, emphasising that while farming is challenging, it is also rewarding. 

“I still remember the week I harvested 20 crates of tomatoes. Each crate was sold for about N$250, so that week alone brought in N$5 000. It was a huge motivation,” he said. 

– awakudumo@nepc.com.na