By: Annakleta Haikera
Businessman Frans “Aupa” Indongo has pledged a tractor to the Ukwangali Traditional Authority following a fundraising gala dinner that raised N$363,000 for agricultural equipment.
One of the organisers, Mars Kudumo, told The Villager Newspaper that the tractor is expected to be received this month.
He said the organisers remain committed to raising additional funds to acquire a second tractor, as the initial goal was to secure two tractors.
Kudumo said the gala dinner, one of the first of its kind in the Kavango West Region, aimed to raise resources to procure essential agricultural equipment for communities under the Ukwangali Traditional Authority.
He said many residents struggle to access tractors and continue using traditional farming methods, which often result in low production.
The Traditional Authority intends to support subsistence farmers by providing equipment, including tractors, tractor-drawn ploughs and planters, to improve production, strengthen food security and empower young people.
Ukwangali Traditional Authority Hompa Eugene Siwombe Kudumo said the equipment would particularly benefit elderly farmers who have fields but lack oxen or cannot afford tractor services.
“The tractor will help many people, especially our elderly women,” Hompa Kudumo said.
He assured donors that their contributions would make a meaningful difference in improving the lives of communities.
Besides monetary pledges, the Traditional Authority also received a tractor, two cattle and two sheep as donations.
Speaking at the gala dinner, Vice President Lucia Witbooi called for stronger partnerships and investment in agriculture, saying the Kavango regions have significant agricultural potential due to their fertile land, water resources and hardworking communities.
She urged investment in irrigation, livestock, agro-processing, value addition, market access and skills development, particularly for youth and women.
Witbooi also encouraged farmers to adopt modern and sustainable farming methods and called on young people to explore opportunities in agribusiness, technology, research, food processing and entrepreneurship.
The gala dinner was held on 31 July 2026 at Kahenge Tribal Hall in Kavango West under the theme, “Cultivating Prosperity: Empowering Communities through Agriculture.”
Agriculture is one of the key priority areas of the 8th Administration.
annakleta@eaglefm.com.na
