By: Annakleta Haikera
Kavango East Region governor, Julius Hambyuka, on Thursday remarked that the region aims to strengthen agricultural development and improve rural livelihoods.
He revealed this on Thursday during the State of the Region Address (SORA).
A total of N$751,145.22 has been allocated to the National Horticulture Support Programme, directly benefitting 80 farmers through subsidised inputs and equipment aimed at enhancing horticultural production.
These interventions are already making a meaningful impact on the lives of many residents.
In support of the Small Stock Development and Distribution in Communal Areas (SSDDCAs) project, the region launched a scheme to promote food security and income generation among vulnerable rural farmers. As part of this initiative, 420 goats were distributed to all rural constituencies.
Twenty farmers each received a breeding flock of 21 goats (one buck and twenty does), under the guidance of the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, Fisheries, and Land Reform.
This is a revolving scheme, ensuring continuous support to new beneficiaries over time.
Hambyuka also highlighted the region’s commitment to poultry farming, which is being promoted as a sustainable and economical livelihood activity.
Through the Poultry Value Chain Development Scheme (PVCDS), aimed at integrating local producers into formal markets, 54 poultry farmers received financial support amounting to N$417,194.28.
In an effort to promote sustainable agriculture, 6,539 farmers – 3,120 men and 3,419 women – were trained in agricultural best practices, including crop production, soil management, and farming sustainability. These farmers are expected to further educate others in their communities.
Hambyuka further noted the region’s strong focus on aquaculture and inland fisheries development.
Institutions such as the Kamutjonga Inland Fisheries Institute (KIFI) and the Rundu Regional Office are playing key roles in promoting sustainable fishing practices, enforcing fisheries regulations, and offering scientific advice.
These efforts are carried out in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) to support climate-resilient aquaculture and horticulture initiatives.
These comprehensive agricultural interventions reflect Kavango East’s growing commitment to food security, economic empowerment, and rural development.
