Garden project tackles malnutrition, food security
Capricorn Foundation has contributed N$400 000 towards Development Aid from People to People (DAPP Namibia) to support a gardening project in the Omusati region to combat malnutrition.This project aligns with the foundation's focus on economic development and vulnerability. Its goal is to promote food security, self-sufficiency, and improved nutritional well-being in vulnerable communities.
The project’s operations include providing trees, seedlings, essential gardening tools and capacity-building training.
During a recent visit to Outapi, the foundation noted the project's progress in promoting sustainable agriculture and increasing household food production. This initiative, which encompasses the Anamulenge and Ogongo constituencies, engages 200 households across ten community clusters. It encourages the establishment of backyard gardens in villages such as Omahalya, Ehungaelo, and Omunghozi.
To monitor the project's success, Capricorn Foundation conducts regular community meetings, assesses food security, and evaluates skills training programmes.
Kirsten Moeller Jensen, Head of the DAPP National Partnership Team, said that the project is more than just gardens. “It is about empowering families and communities to thrive. With Capricorn Foundation’s support, we equip households with the skills and knowledge to ensure year-round food availability and an understanding of nutrition for better health.”
Project beneficiary Elizabeth Hinamwaami highlighted the project's impact, saying, “Before the gardening project, I would wait for the rainy season to plant mahangu. Now, I can grow a variety of vegetables year-round, which ensures nutritious meals for my family and allows me to share with neighbours.”
Highlights and impact
The project’s achievements in both Anamulenge and Ogongo constituencies reflect the Capricorn Foundation’s commitment to sustainable development and economic resilience:
• 210 households registered and 175 gardens were established with vegetables like beetroot, carrots, onions, kale, spinach, green peppers, chillies, eggplants, potatoes, tomatoes, and herbs like coriander, parsley, dill and basil.
• 150 fruit tree saplings, including mango, guava, lemon, pomegranate, moringa and neem trees were distributed and planted, enhancing nutrition and environmental conservation.
• 50 households received gardening tools, 11 were provided with shade nets, one received a wheelbarrow, and 50 received watering cans.
The project focuses on climate-friendly practices like companion planting and composting. These techniques have improved soil quality and increased crop variety. Community members have also received training in pest management and nutrition. As a result, they have gained skills that help them maintain their gardens and support each other in ensuring food security.
“Capricorn Foundation is dedicated to promoting sustainable community development and economic advancement, Capricorn Foundation Coordinator Veripura Muukua said. “The foundation supports communities by ensuring access to healthy food, even in the face of environmental challenges. By empowering community members to share knowledge and cultivate sustainable gardens, we can help build resilience and self-sufficiency in our rural communities.”