The Otjimbele grape project in the Omusati region of Namibia is set to diversify its agricultural production. Announced by Carlos Lertxundi Aretxaga, the project's founder and CEO, this initiative involves a N$120 million investment aimed at revitalizing the former Asparagus Agro-Processing Project. The expanded cultivation will include watermelon, spanspek, sweet potato, and butternut. This strategy is designed to reduce import reliance by supplying the local market with crops that are currently not readily available.
With the broader goal of addressing Namibia's status as a net importer of certain agricultural products, the project seeks to not only fulfill domestic demand but also to export surplus to neighboring countries. Already, the project has commenced exporting asparagus to South Africa, with products available in major retail chains. Further, the initiative is exploring partnerships with local vendors and supermarkets to bolster the regional economy and increase employment opportunities.
Despite facing challenges such as theft at the Atunda Irrigation Project, the Otjimbele project continues to contribute to the local economy and agricultural sector.
Source: Windhoek Observer