Old Mutual Namibia invests USD 85,000 in gardens to fight hunger among learners

NAMIBIA – Old Mutual Namibia has launched a new community-driven project in Gobabis aimed at addressing food insecurity among learners, with an investment of NAD 1.5 million (USD 85,000).

The Omaheke Gardens project, spearheaded by Old Mutual Namibia, seeks to create sustainable gardens at various locations in Gobabis.

These gardens will provide fresh produce to learners and their families, helping alleviate hunger and promoting healthier lifestyles.

The initiative will involve several key sites, including the Gobabis Combined School, Epako Pre-School Development Centre, Val en Opstaan Kindergarten, Epako Clinic – Malnutrition Soup Kitchen, United Childcare Association, and Light of the Children School.

Ndangi Katoma, Managing Director of Retail Mass Foundation at Old Mutual Namibia, highlighted the project’s potential to inspire positive change.

“The Omaheke Gardens project is not just about planting seeds, it’s about planting hope,” Katoma said. “By working together, we can provide our children with the nourishment they need to thrive in their education and in life.”

A key aspect of the initiative is community participation. Local residents will be encouraged to take part in the planting and harvesting process, ensuring that the project fosters a sense of ownership while imparting valuable agricultural and nutritional skills.

“These gardens will serve as vital resources for learners and their families,” Katoma added, “offering fresh produce that will help combat hunger and promote healthier lifestyles. What excites me most about this project is the emphasis on community involvement. From planning to harvesting, we are engaging learners, educators, and community members every step of the way.”

By focusing on collective efforts, the initiative aims to improve local food security while teaching children about sustainable farming practices. Residents will play a hands-on role, gaining both knowledge and ownership of the project’s outcomes.

Old Mutual has called on the broader Namibian community to support the Omaheke Gardens project through volunteering and resource-sharing. The company believes that widespread involvement will amplify the positive impact of the initiative.

“Each contribution is valuable, whether it’s time, resources, or simply spreading the word,” Katoma emphasized.

Namibia’s fresh produce sector is quite diverse, despite its challenging arid and semi-arid climate. Companies like O&L Fresh Produce support local farmers by offering crucial resources, such as cold chain networks and distribution facilities.

This ensures that fresh fruits and vegetables reach retail shelves, helping enhance food security and sustainable farming practices across the country.

Namibia also exports a significant amount of produce, with table grapes and dates being two major contributors to the sector’s revenue.

The Namibian Agronomic Board (NAB) continues to play an essential role by offering production forecasts and aiding the horticulture industry.

These efforts have contributed to a steady growth trend in the production and export of high-value crops like grapes and dates, as well as the overall employment of Namibians, particularly in rural areas.

With projects like Omaheke Gardens, Namibia is taking tangible steps toward addressing hunger and promoting sustainable agriculture, while making a positive impact on the well-being of local communities.

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