First community seed bank for Namibia

Namibia has taken a substantial step towards agricultural sustainability with the inauguration of its first community seed bank at Sharukwe village in Kavango West, with an investment of N$500 000, as a crucial repository for local seeds.

The project, funded by the Environmental Investment Fund (EIF), MTC and the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), signifies a pivotal moment in preserving biodiversity and ensuring food security.

Launched on 9 November in the Ncuncuni constituency, the community eagerly embraced its potential to preserve rare and valuable food species.



Benefit to all

According to the EIF, the primary objective of the Sharukwe Seed Bank is to safeguard natural resources by preventing the overexploitation of various seed varieties.

“This proactive intervention not only prevents resource depletion but also ensures the preservation of seeds for the benefit of future generations.”

It said while the immediate impact is felt in Kavango West, its significance resonates nationally, contributing significantly to Namibia's overall food security.

“Community seed banks play a pivotal role in collecting, storing and protecting local seeds. In times of crop damage or destruction, these banks serve as an emergency seed supply, ensuring farmers can access seeds for the next planting season.”



Expansion envisioned

The EIF said although Namibia has embarked on its first community seed bank journey this year, neighbouring countries like Zambia, South Africa and Zimbabwe have long embraced this practice, with Zimbabwe boasting an impressive 26 community seed banks.

“Beyond safeguarding seeds, the project emphasises the broader goal of protecting natural resources, promoting environmental sustainability, and ensuring that Namibia's future generations have access to diverse and resilient agricultural resources.”

The director of forestry at the environment ministry, Johnson Ndokosho, affirmed government's commitment to expanding such infrastructure.

"The ministry is going to continue to establish this type of infrastructure. We are planning to construct one in Kavango East and around the Ndiyona area, then another one in Omusati, and another one in the Oshikoto Region in the coming five years."



Bright future

EIF manager for corporate communications, Lot Ndamanomhata, said the initiative extends beyond financial backing as it embodies a shared commitment to environmental sustainability and the preservation of natural heritage.

MTC's Fikameni Mathias emphasised the need to preserve traditional ways of life through seed banking.

The local community in Sarukwe, led by Ncuncuni constituency councillor Leopoldine Nseu, expressed profound appreciation, according to EIF.

Namibians are urged to uphold and utilise this infrastructure, symbolising a shared commitment to a cleaner environment and biodiversity preservation. This initiative marks the beginning of a sustainable journey, fostering hope for future generations and contributing to Namibia's environmental stewardship and agricultural sustainability.