Loise Shiimi
Shivute Leader Shikonda, a farmer and manager of the Okongo Horticulture Association in Ohangwena Region, provided The Villager with an update regarding this year’s harvest, stating that he has harvested about 30,000 mielies (maize) so far.
“Maize is an excellent crop that requires minimal maintenance and thrives well during the rainy season,” he expressed.
Shikonda also noted that many farmers who planted crops sensitive to excessive rainfall, such as tomatoes and butternut, faced significant damage due to heavy rains.
“Every crop needs a specific amount of water, and when that amount is exceeded, it can lead to problems. Many farmers have called me to report that their crops have been destroyed, and some are dealing with pest infestations,” Shikonda shared.
He provided advice to farmers on how to prevent losses during the rainy season.
“I encourage my fellow farmers to seek knowledge on the appropriate times for planting specific crops. Don’t start planting just because your customers are asking for stock; first, research the right time to plant,” he advised.
Moreover, he highlighted crops that thrive during the rainy season, including onions, maize, spinach, beetroot, green peppers, carrots, potatoes, and sweet potatoes, suggesting that farmers focus on these to minimise losses next season.
“We began harvesting at the end of January and have collected about 30,000 mielies. We will continue harvesting depending on customer demand,” he explained.
Regarding the market situation, particularly after a good harvest, Shikonda noted that market conditions are generally favorable. They target peak buying days, such as paydays and pension days, as well as events like entrepreneurial expos.
He mentioned that many customers purchase in bulk (50 kg sacks) for resale, with maize selling at N$5 each, which allows resellers to potentially earn a 50% profit.
However, he also addressed the challenges they face during the selling process, emphasising the need to revisit communal land laws.
“We are deprived in many ways; we can’t even secure loans to expand our production. All we can do is rely on our own finances, which limits our growth. Commercial farmers enjoy more privileges in accessing loans, and during selling periods, their prices are often lower, attracting more buyers,” he said.
He stressed the importance of recognition and support for small-scale farmers, similar to that received by larger agricultural operations.
Meanwhile, fellow farmer Asser Nghipewa remarked that customer demand is constant. If they stop production due to heavy rainfall, they risk disappointing their customers.
“I plant all my crops based on my customers’ preferences. I understand that tomatoes and butternut may struggle during the rainy season, but what I recommend to every farmer is to plant early, before the rains begin, to avoid damage,” he advised.
Nghipewa noted that his butternut was not affected as he planted early and began harvesting in early January, generating approximately N$46,000 from his crops.
“I planted half a hectare of butternuts and a 40m by 40m plot of tomatoes. We’ve harvested 300 bags of 10 kg of butternuts, which are already sold out, generating N$20,000, and 40 crates of tomatoes, contributing an additional N$26,000, with a few tomatoes still remaining,” he explained.
