Johannes Jerobiam, a skilled horticulturist from Ekuku area in the Oshana region, is helping transform the local agriculture scene with his expertise in propagating and grafting fruit trees. 

While growing fruit trees from seeds typically takes years to bear fruit, he uses innovative techniques like grafting and air layering to speed up the process. 

By grafting, he combines a fruit-bearing tree with a strong rootstock, which encourages faster fruit production. 

This method is especially useful for trees such as mangoes, avocados, narcissus and citrus, which are common in the region.

“I believe in always updating myself. With grafting and air layering, we can encourage the plants to bear fruit faster. It’s a game-changer for farmers and gardeners in this area,” he said. 

After realising that the photography industry was becoming saturated, he turned to horticulture in 2011. 

While still practising photography, he noticed his plant business was growing rapidly. 

“I started focusing more on the plants because the demand was so high. I realised it was time to leave photography behind, and focus solely on what was working,” he said.

Jerobiam’s plant business now supplies several town councils across the Oshana region, with the Oshakati Town Council being his largest client. 

“They buy from me every year. It’s a great feeling to know my work makes a difference in local communities,” he remarked, reflecting on the consistent demand for his trees.

Although many of his current plants were grown from seeds, Jerobiam is preparing to start grafting next year.

He currently has four employees. 

He already has a sufficient stock of rootstocks ready for the upcoming season. 

His trees help to boost local fruit production, and support the community’s agricultural growth.

Jerobiam’s work is not just about planting trees. 

It is about improving food security, and creating opportunities for local farmers.

Through his grafting techniques, he is playing a key role in helping farmers access high-quality fruit trees that can bear fruits more quickly, ensuring better yields and a more sustainable future for agriculture in the Oshana region.

With his passion and dedication to modern horticulture, he is helping to pave the way for a fruitful future in Ekuku and beyond.

-Isipunga@nepc.com.na