Dr. Qingyun Diao, FAO Representative in Namibia (center-left), and Hon. Sirkka Ausiku, Governor of Kavango West Region (center-right), gesture as they hand over gardening tools and implements to members of the "Rugan Yipo Oparuke" project.

Nkurenkuru, Namibia - The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform and with the generous support of the Government of Japan, has handed over vital gardening tools, agricultural inputs, and irrigation systems to 25 farmers' cooperatives in the Kavango West Region.

This initiative, backed by a USD 1.2 million (approximately N$22 million) contribution from Japan, is set to bolster the climate resilience of over 200 farmers and their dependents, ensuring a sustainable agricultural future for the region.

At the handover ceremony, FAO Representative in Namibia, Dr. Qingyun Diao, emphasized the importance of this support in helping smallholder farmers optimize water use amidst the challenges posed by climate change. "These tools and systems will enable our smallholder farmers to ensure their crops thrive even in the most challenging conditions," Dr. Diao stated. "By adopting sustainable farming practices and efficient irrigation methods, farmers can mitigate the impacts of drought and contribute to a food-secure Namibia."

The event also featured remarks from the Governor of Kavango West Region, Hon. Sirkka Ausiku, who encouraged farmers to embrace climate-smart agricultural practices. "Despite being situated near the river, climate change has highlighted the need to shift to irrigation systems to achieve the region's goal of becoming green," said Governor Ausiku. She expressed optimism about transforming Kavango West into an agricultural hub, noting the significance of these donations in realizing that vision.

Governor Ausiku further announced plans for an agriculture conference in November, aimed at providing farmers with a platform to share their experiences and challenges with key stakeholders. "We want our farmers, especially the youth, to find markets for their products. The upcoming conference will be an opportunity for them to tell their story and connect with potential buyers and supporters," she added.

The donation, which includes water tanks, solar systems, watering cans, and wheelbarrows, marks a significant step forward in addressing food security, reducing unemployment, and eradicating poverty in the region. The equipment is expected to help farmers make optimal use of natural resources like water, enhancing food production and resilience to climate-related challenges.

One of the beneficiaries, Michael Kambinda, expressed his gratitude, saying, "I would like to thank the sponsors for their support and encourage other recipients to use the tools wisely to ensure their longevity."

The Government of Japan, through its Japan Supplementary Budget, has consistently funded FAO activities in Namibia for three consecutive years, contributing a total of USD 2 185 823. This generous support has enabled FAO to assist over 2 000 small-scale farmers across the country.