The Berseba food basket project, which has seen a decline in volunteer support, has received a renewed opportunity to revive its mission of combating poverty and fostering food self-sufficiency.
The food project is undergoing revitalisation with new crops being introduced, thanks to a partnership between the Berseba Village Council and Daures Green Hydrogen. This collaboration has brought in a crop production expert to help restore the community initiative.
Berseba Constituency Councillor Raymond Jossop was instrumental in establishing the project about four years back, with material support from the government, the World Food Programme and the Berseba Village Council.
"Although it is sad, it is also a hopeful story that can be replicated. One individual has undertaken a remarkable project. At present, we have very healthy cabbages that have been planted by this single person, and the onions are growing abundantly as well. This serves as a testament to anyone out there who might believe that they cannot achieve something on their own."
The Berseba Town Council renewed calls to the young people to take ownership.
Felicia Motinga, Councillor of the Berseba Village Council, stated, "We want the young people to take ownership and manage this project as their own, rather than relying on external individuals for employment. We have secured investors and are currently in discussions with them. The goal is to ensure that our local community is employed, and we also encourage them to volunteer in this initiative. It is not solely about financial gain; it is also an opportunity to acquire skills and for them to establish their own backyard gardens. Food security is crucial, and we must prioritise it within our community."
The crop production expert enlisted to revitalise the project, Robert Chambuku, shared developments regarding future plans.
"We have already installed some drip irrigation pipes. Subsequently, we will need to cover the entire area. This 10 hectares must feature a variety of crops. We want to ensure that each hectare is dedicated to tomatoes, green peppers, and watermelons."
The revived food project has already harvested beetroot and distributed it among the needy communities.
Plans are also underway to revive the poultry and aquaculture components, restoring the initiative to its original vision as an integrated food project.