Africa-Press – Namibia. The Daures Green Hydrogen Village is demonstrating how advanced fertigation and water-saving technologies can transform agriculture in Namibia’s dry climate while reducing reliance on imports.
The project, launched in 2023 in Erongo’s Daures constituency, operates a one-hectare butterfly greenhouse and a pad-and-fan nursery, where cucumbers, tomatoes and peppers are cultivated using precision fertigation systems.
Agricultural manager Jason Angula explained that fertigation – the application of water-soluble fertilisers through irrigation – ensures crops receive the exact nutrients they need, while minimising wastage.
“Our design recycles up to 30% of water, which is critical in a country as arid as Namibia. The system allows crops to thrive while conserving scarce resources,” he said.
The butterfly greenhouse’s natural ventilation system, combined with fogging technology, regulates temperature and humidity without heavy energy use. According to Angula, this setup ensures efficient production, enabling Daures produce to already reach shelves at major retailers such as Shoprite, Checkers, Spar, Woermann and Metro.
Namibia imports more than 60% of its fresh produce, but initiatives such as Daures are starting to close the gap. “We want Namibians to know that the food they are buying is grown right here, with sustainable methods designed for our climate,” Angula added.
Daures CEO Jerome Namaseb said the project not only cuts import bills but also promotes food security and creates opportunities across the agricultural value chain. “Our vision is to brand Namibian produce, support farmers, and build resilience in food production,” he noted.
Agriculture ministry representative Julia Nambili highlighted the link between the greenhouse and the upcoming green hydrogen-powered fertiliser plant in Daures. “By producing ammonium phosphate locally, we reduce fertiliser imports and costs for farmers while ensuring sustainable, nutrient-rich production,” she said.
Experts say fertigation and recycling systems, if scaled up, could be a game-changer for Namibia’s agriculture, helping the country adapt to drought, soil degradation and climate change while feeding its people sustainably.
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