Kavango West: The Sikondo Green Scheme in the Kavango West Region has achieved a significant milestone by successfully harvesting 300 tonnes of potatoes in January, as reported by Farm Manager Maxwell Nghidinwa.

According to Namibia Press Agency, during a recent farm tour with officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Nghidinwa confirmed that the total potato harvest for January reached 300 tonnes. He further explained that the potato seeds were sourced from South Africa and are currently being treated in preparation for the second planting cycle, which will cover approximately 10 to 13 hectares.

Nghidinwa highlighted the farm's strategy to focus on cultivating crops that are typically imported and expensive for Namibian consumers. He noted that the statistics indicate a significant increase in potato consumption alongside rising prices, prompting the farm to produce locally and supply the market with more affordable options.

Additionally, the farm benefits from a competitive edge due to investments by the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform in equipment such as a potato sorting machine, which facilitates the washing, brushing, drying, and packing processes. The second cycle of potato planting is set for harvesting around June 2025, with a third cycle planned for planting in July 2025 and harvesting in December 2025.

Beyond potatoes, the Sikondo Green Scheme is also scheduled to harvest 120 hectares of maize in May and will begin planting wheat in May 2025, expecting to harvest the wheat by October 2025. The farm boasts 850 hectares of arable land under irrigation, divided into medium-scale and commercial-scale farming sections, and employs approximately 32 workers from nearby villages, some on a contractual basis.