Ester Unoovene, a 33-year-old unemployed graduate, has finally found her niche in farming and is enjoying all the ups and downs that come with the trade. 

She obtained a degree in education in 2015, but has been struggling to secure permanent employment.

 She was last employed as a temporary teacher in 2017. When that offer ended, she turned to farming, where she thrives and survives from her small garden. 

“I have been attending interviews here and there, but I am still jobless. The struggle of not having a job forced me to become innovative and divide our field into two sections: one for growing mahangu and the other for the  horticulture business,” Unoovene shared.

She grows onions, tomatoes, water melons and spinach, which she sells for personal income and to fund her garden operations.

 She also trades with live chickens, eggs and doves.

“As we speak, I have now reached levels where I supply stock to most of the local street vendors in Okongo, Oshakati and Ongwediva. I also get customers from most of the surrounding areas. They all support my business a lot,” she beamed. Despite a few challenges, such as a lack of adequate water supply and top-quality seeds, she remains grateful for all the growth and support experienced over the years, saying the garden has helped raise and support her two children financially. 

“I must urge my fellow graduates who are still hunting for job opportunities to start venturing seriously into agriculture, as it will help put something on the table for their families,” Unoovene noted.-taimihaihambo2000@gmail.com