Goats for drought-stricken Kunene farmers

The Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia (EIF), the ministry of agriculture, water and land reform and the office of the regional governor of Kunene recently handed over goats and energy-efficient stoves under the IREMA Kunene Project, funded by the Green Climate Fund.

This milestone event took place at the Khorixas auction kraal.

Bernadette Shivute-Shalumbu, manager of programming and programmes at EIF, emphasised the significance of the IREMA project in responding to recurrent droughts in the Kunene Region. The project focuses on alternative farming practices, particularly the introduction of boerbokke as a resilient alternative to cattle farming. Additionally, the project addresses deforestation through the distribution of energy-efficient stoves that require less wood, contributing to environmental sustainability.



Working together

Kunene governor Marius Sheya highlighted the importance of climate adaptation measures for rural communities.

“The distribution of 750 goats and 300 energy-efficient stoves aims to enhance food and nutrition security, especially for vulnerable farmers impacted by the prolonged drought,” he said.

Sheya commended the unity of stakeholders and the commitment of government to implement sustainable farming strategies.

He highlighted the consultative approach involving constituency committees and the traditional authority.

The EIF, agriculture ministry and Kunene regional governor’s office urged beneficiaries to use the donated items responsibly.

The EIF emphasised reinvesting in their communities, stating a collaborative effort to combat climate challenges, support vulnerable farmers and promote sustainable practices in the Kunene Region.