KATIMA MULILO – The Namibia Industrial Development Agency (NIDA) says significant progress has been made in reviving the Manyeha Crocodile Farm in Kongola, with renovation works well underway and a phased operational relaunch planned.
Speaking to New Era this week, Inyemba Kamwi, NIDA’s senior consultant for strategy and projects, confirmed that the initial phase of rehabilitation has already been completed.
“We are pleased to report that the clearing of the land and facility was completed in December 2025, as committed. This was followed by the renovation of the roofing, which was finalised in January 2026. Currently, we are continuing with renovations to the chalets, restaurant area, manager’s house, and other supporting buildings on site,” Kamwi said. Addressing concerns about previous vandalism and wildlife intrusion, Kamwi noted that preventative measures have been implemented.
“The property was fully fenced in 2025 through a partnership with the National Youth Service. In addition, onsite security personnel are stationed at the facility and funded by NIDA,” she explained.
While these steps have strengthened security, she acknowledged that the farm’s natural setting means occasional wildlife sightings, including baboons and small animals, remain unavoidable.
In October 2025, NIDA formally introduced its project partners to the Office of the Governor of Zambezi and the Mashi Traditional Authority.
During that engagement, NIDA confirmed it had entered into a joint venture agreement with Sable Hills and Bouncy Croc for the renovation and operation of the Manyeha Crocodile Farm. Kamwi said renovations are progressing steadily, with the official launch of operations projected for the end of 2026.
The project will be implemented in two phases. Phase one focuses on the tourism component, particularly relaunching lodge operations. Phase two will centre on the agricultural aspect – the breeding and production of crocodiles – which is expected to commence in 2027. “Renovations of the crocodile dams will, therefore begin after the launch of the lodge,” she confirmed. She highlighted governance-related challenges affecting the project’s implementation.
The farm is situated in Kongola within the Zambezi region, on land influenced by both the Mafwe and the Mashi traditional authorities.
“The Manyeha Crocodile Farm project operates within a unique traditional governance context. Differing community interests and leadership structures have at times created complexities in stakeholder alignment and project coordination,” she stated. According to Kamwi, some community groups naturally align with their respective traditional authorities, which has occasionally resulted in differing perspectives regarding the project’s development and anticipated benefits. Despite these challenges, she emphasised that the project team remains committed to inclusive dialogue.
“We remain focused on strengthening collaboration between all stakeholders to ensure that the development benefits the broader Kongola community and the Zambezi region at large,” she said.
With infrastructure upgrades progressing and partnerships formalised, the long-dormant crocodile farm appears set for a phased revival aimed at restoring both tourism and agricultural production in the region.