Africa-Press – Namibia. Auleria Wakudum
Agriculture continues to play a significant role in job creation in the Ohangwena region, with several local projects helping communities earn a living and reduce poverty.
Ohangwena Regional Council chairperson and councillor of the Okongo constituency, Efraim Shipindo, said the region is experiencing increased employment through farming activities such as crop production and livestock farming.
He noted that many households depend on agriculture not only for food security but also as a source of income.
“Agriculture is one of the biggest employers in our region. In the past, it was not performing well due to limited support, but now it is doing wonders,” Shipindo said.
He highlighted several projects contributing to job creation.
One of these is the Ekoka Green Project, which currently employs more than 200 casual workers. The project focuses on cultivating crops such as mahangu, maize, beans and millet, with plans underway to fully develop it into a green scheme.
Another initiative is Omauni Joinery and Carpentry, which, although small, employs seven permanent workers. It also provides training opportunities for students from vocational training centres, enabling them to gain practical experience.
The Oikango Pigery Farm in Enyana village is also making a notable contribution to employment in the region.
Director of Oikango Pigery, Ponhelepawa Kaulandwa, said the farm employs 73 workers, including 57 permanent employees and 16 casual workers.
The farm supplies pork to Omashako Meat Supplies and also produces vegetables for sale.
Horticulture activities in Enyana are also helping to create jobs, particularly for local community members involved in crop production.
Shipindo added that the region is benefiting from animal husbandry initiatives.
At Oshamukweni Farming, grass is produced for animal feed, supporting livestock farmers and creating additional employment opportunities.
He further shared that his own farm, Endunduwanda, employs seven young people, including three females and four males.
The farm also offers free training to youth, equipping them with skills to start their own agricultural businesses.
“I encourage young people to venture into agriculture.
Sometimes we do not even ask for qualifications, as long as a person is willing and capable of working,” he said.
Shipindo stressed that agriculture remains the leading sector driving job creation in the Ohangwena region.
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