Namibian ‘black gold’ provides income

Agribank’s online Agrilearn podcast featured local farmers from the Otjozondjupa Region who are part of charcoal production and processing, which has become a way for them to generate income for their families and grow businesses within the region.

Kondjeni Gideon, a farmer in Grootfontein, said charcoal production helps his family financially and allows him to create employment for others - as inspired by other farmers who produce charcoal.

Another reason why he ventured into charcoal production is because of bush encroachment, which he said makes farming challenging.

He added that charcoal production cannot be started merely because one owns a farm. There are requirements to be met and factors to be considered.

“There are some trees that are not meant to be harvested as they are prohibited by the government. Visit the ministry of environment, forestry and tourism to guide you. They will advise you on which trees can be harvested and those that are prohibited,” he said.

In addition, Gideon said before clearing land, measurements should be done to ensure that land is cleared about 16 metres from grazing land to where charcoal will be burned.

A charcoal-processing plant in Grootfontein, Carbo Namibia, shared insight on the industry and some rewarding experiences as well as challenges faced.

The company collects charcoal from local farmers and exports mainly to the European market, with the local Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) being its biggest supplier.

Factory manager at Carbo Namibia Juliana Smith said the biggest challenge when dealing with charcoal processing is shipping.

“We have a wonderful relationship with the shipping companies. They go out of their way to meet our needs, but the availability of charcoal containers is a big concern as there are restrictions for each vessel,” she said.

However, amidst many other challenges, she said the greatest achievement is seeing the business grow.

“We have grown from a small business to a big company which has managed to employ people with basic skills and trained them to enhance their skills for the better.”

She added that farmers are trained to be responsible in charcoal-making, which acts as a great guideline for them.

Frank Deterin, an FSC certifier at the plant, said the charcoal industry in Namibia has the potential to expand, because there are existing charcoal markets.

“As much as everything is in place to operate, there may be hiccups faced in the export procedures of charcoal.”