In a significant stride towards agricultural self-sufficiency, Namibia's banana project is making notable progress. The initiative, situated in the Zambezi region, is not only poised to bolster the nation's food security but also aims to curtail the heavy reliance on imports. With an investment exceeding N$14 million, the project underscores the potential of leveraging local resources to meet domestic demand.
The endeavor, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform and the United Nations Development Programme, spans across a 10-hectare plot. This pilot phase, which heralds the larger vision of expanding to a 100-hectare plantation, has already seen the cultivation of 45,000 banana plants. The selection of the Grand Naine variety, known for its resilience and high yield, further amplifies the project's prospects for success.
According to Peya Mushelenga, the Minister of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, "This project is not only about producing bananas but also about creating jobs and developing skills among our people." This statement encapsulates the multifaceted benefits of the project, which extend beyond agricultural productivity to encompass economic empowerment and skill development within the community.
Source: observer24.com.na