Nkurenkuru: Kavango West Region Governor, Verna Sinimbo on Monday distributed agricultural materials worth N.dollars 1.5 million donated by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) to 19 horticulture farmers as part of ongoing agricultural development in the region.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the handover ceremony took place in Nkurenkuru, where the farmers received wheelbarrows, seeds, garden tools, solar panels, water tanks, and garden pipes to boost their farming operations.

Speaking at the event, Governor Sinimbo emphasised the government's commitment to strengthening food security and improving rural livelihoods in the region. She said the FAO-donated materials would help restore productivity and ensure no family goes hungry. 'Agriculture remains the backbone of our region, with the majority of households depending on crop and livestock farming for both food and income,' Sinimbo said, adding: 'These tools will enable our farmers to work more efficiently and expand their horticultural activities.'

The governor urged beneficiaries to treat the farming resources with care and use them wisely for growth and progress. She emphasised the importance of sharing knowledge with neighbours and communities to inspire others.

The beneficiaries, who are involved in vegetable and fruit production, expressed gratitude for the FAO support. Many said the materials would address long-standing challenges they faced in their farming operations. Local farmer Maria Mukuve said the wheelbarrows would make it easier to transport produce from their gardens to markets. 'We have been struggling with carrying heavy loads. These wheelbarrows will make our work much easier,' she said.

Another beneficiary, Johannes Katamba, welcomed the water tanks and pipes, saying they would help with irrigation during dry seasons. 'Water has always been our biggest challenge. With these tanks and pipes, we can store water and irrigate our crops even when there is no rain,' he said.

The agricultural development initiative forms part of the government's broader strategy to promote sustainable agriculture in the Kavango West region. The programme targets smallholder farmers who lack the resources to purchase farming equipment. Regional Chief Agricultural Scientific Officer, Zepee Havarua said the materials were selected based on farmers' specific needs identified during community consultations. He said continuous mentoring and monitoring of beneficiaries by experts would follow.

The handover is expected to benefit approximately 95 family members who depend on the 19 farmers for their livelihoods.