Sikondo: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has praised the garlic trial at Sikondo Green Scheme, saying farm workers' efforts are key to food security and rural economic growth in Kavango West. The president was speaking during her visit to the Sikondo Green Scheme in the region's Kapako Constituency on Monday.
According to Namibia Press Agency, acting farm manager Maxwell Nghidinwa informed the president that Sikondo is piloting garlic on one hectare, with 0.5 hectares already under net shade and the rest still to be transplanted. Nghidinwa explained that this is the first time Sikondo has produced garlic, emphasizing its value as a high-value, low-maintenance crop. He noted that most garlic in the shops is imported, yet it fetches a good price per gram and holds high potential for processing.
Nghidinwa also highlighted that cloves from the current harvest can be saved as seed, which would reduce input costs while maintaining quality. He mentioned that cloves can be preserved for the next season, ensuring consistent quality as they originate from the mother plant. Alongside garlic, Sikondo is introducing other crops, including green pepper and a third cycle of cabbage for the summer crop.
In addition to crop cultivation, the farm is enhancing its entrance with flowers and trees to improve staff welfare. President Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed her approval of these efforts, acknowledging the farm workers' role in feeding the country and emphasizing that rural economies are crucial drivers of economic growth.
The Sikondo Green Scheme is also conducting a rice research and development trial under a center pivot. Three hectares have been planted to assess rice growth under pivot irrigation as part of a strategy to diversify staple food production and boost revenue. The trial has demonstrated proof of concept, with the crop reaching maturity and indicating that rice can thrive under pivot conditions. The long-term plan involves planting 200 hectares and supplying the harvest to the Kalimbeza rice project for processing and packaging.
Nghidinwa stated that the trial is now concentrating on identifying suitable upland varieties with partners such as the University of Namibia and testing herbicides compatible with rice under pivot irrigation. The next steps include sourcing certified seed, completing herbicide trials, and scaling up beyond 10 hectares.