Kavango west: John Nashongo never imagined that his journey from the newsroom to the field would lead him to believe that Kavango West could become Namibia's ultimate food basket. The 45-year-old former Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) supervisor resigned from his media career in 2022 to pursue a lifelong dream-growing mango trees in what he calls 'the most promising agricultural region in the country.'

According to Namibia Press Agency, Nashongo was inspired by an encounter involving his foster mother's environmental trust. During a visit to supported projects, she introduced him to Winfried Metzger, the private operator of the Musese Green Scheme. Metzger would become Nashongo's mentor, encouraging the family to start their own venture. In 2022, Nashongo embarked on a transformation project, converting dense forest into organized rows of Tommy Adkins, Keitt, and Sensation mangoes, selected for their commercial potential.

The transition was challenging, requiring efforts like clearing land, installing irrigation systems, and sourcing water through a borehole. The mango trees, still three years away from harvest, require constant attention, especially during the winter chill. To combat low temperatures, Nashongo employs an innovative heating system using coal fires to raise the local temperature by one or two degrees.

Isolation presents further challenges. When a whirlwind damaged the farm's solar setup, Nashongo repaired it himself, highlighting the self-reliance needed in such ventures. Despite these obstacles, the project is benefiting the local community by employing six workers who share Nashongo's vision. One employee, who asked to remain anonymous, noted the job's steady income and the potential for future opportunities once harvesting begins.

Nashongo's ambitions extend beyond mangoes. He plans to diversify into oranges and lemons, aiming to establish a juice company with Metzger. He believes Namibia has the potential to shift from being a fruit importer to a global exporter, competing with countries like India. However, he emphasizes the need for government support in expanding green schemes, improving infrastructure, and providing market access for local farmers.

Nashongo's journey from supervising video editors to nurturing trees signifies more than a personal career shift. It represents a commitment to unlocking Kavango West's potential to ensure food security for future generations.