Ongwediva Mayor Naemi Amuthenu has launched the Mayor's Community Backyard Gardening Project aimed at improving food security and promoting self-reliance among residents of the town.
The initiative seeks to create a tangible difference in the lives of Ongwediva residents by empowering households to grow their own fresh vegetables in their backyards.
Speaking at the launch, Amuthenu said the project nearly failed to take off due to a lack of funding, as there was no budget for its implementation.
However, she approached various businesses and well-wishers to solicit support in the form of seeds and gardening equipment.
Her appeal was answered by Indongo Toyota, OSMEDS-Namibia, Rani Group of Companies, OLV Consulting Engineers and Build It Oshana, which donated seeds and gardening tools valued at N$60,000.
"We would improve success through sustainable livelihood and entrepreneurial opportunities. Once we produce more than what we can eat, we can go out and sell to others and sell to the neighbouring towns, and in the villages, we can also support our neighbours, and that is social protection support. In addition to improving access to health food and adequate food, the project will promote a positive culture of gardening, self-reliance and practical skills development at the community level."
The donations benefited 80 residents who will now be able to establish backyard gardens.
Beneficiaries received tomato, spinach, and green pepper seeds, as well as watering cans, plastic planting bags, shovels and rakes to help them start their gardens.
These are the courageous words of some donors.
"Today we are gathered not only to launch a gardening project but also to plant a seed of opportunities, self-sufficiency and hope within our community. On behalf of Iindongo Toyota, I would like to express our appreciation to the town council of Ongwediva for initiating this programme that directly benefits families and strengthens food security at the household level," says Laina Mwatukange, Iindongo Toyota Ongwediva branch's marketing coordinator.
National Manager for OSMEDS-Namibia, Victoria Sakeus, adds, "As the saying goes, a society grows greater when its people plant a seed to harvest together. I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the town council for recognising the value of this project for turning the open land into a vibrant hub of collaboration, learning and self-reliance."
In a related development, the Ongwediva Town Council also donated a printer and laptop valued at N$15,000 to the Ongwediva Youth Club, as well as gym equipment valued at N$10,000 to Ongwe Bootcamp.