InFocus Namibia - April 2025

InFocus NAMIBIA APRIL, 2025

AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

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ISSN 2026-9080

SMART AGRICULTURE

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CONTENTS EDITION: APRIL 2025

4

FROM THE EDITOR

5

QUICK FACTS

6

ECONOMY AT LARGE

8

KEY DATES

9

FUEL PRICES

11

ENERGY SECTOR

17

SOLAR ENERGY PRODUCTION

18

AGRICULTURE

21

EXECUTIVE SPOTLIGHT

24

TENDERS

25

PRESS RELEASES

31

CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS

Namibia and Agriculture for Job Creation and Rural Livelihoods: 2015 to 2025.

Nuclear Power: What must we do?

Off-Grid Electrification: The REDs Readiness

Green Schemes or Smart Schemes?

Spotlight on Mr. Lawson Manyika

From The Editor Leveraging Smart Agriculture to boost Food Security Thankfully, several initiatives have been launched over the years to improve the situation. Projects like the Namibia Agricultural Mechanization and Seed Improvement Project (NAMSIP) and along with programs supported by the Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) which have since been working to revitalize the sector. These efforts aim to improve seed quality, support youth-led SMEs, and enhance access to credit and mentorship.

While, livestock farming continues to dominate Namibia’s agricultural landscape, there exist a significant potential of diversifying into high-value crops and agro-processing. Investing in these areas can potentially create new jobs, add value locally, and reduce our reliance on exporting raw materials.

Dear Reader, Welcome to another edition of InFocus Namibia!

As we look ahead to Namibia’s agricultural future, one thing is clear, our population is growing rapidly. Over the past 12 years, we have experienced a 43 percent increase, rising from just over 2.1 million people in 2011 to more than 3 million in 2023. Urban areas in particular are expanding especially fast, with the urban population growing by approximately 67 percent and now nearly matching the rural population at just over 1.5 million each.

This rapid growth brings both opportunities and challenges. One of the biggest challenges faced by Namibia is ensuring food security in a country known for its arid climate and unpredictable rainfall. In recent years, Namibia experienced the extremes weather patterns from prolonged droughts to sudden flooding which have made consistent agricultural production increasingly difficult. This directly affects rural communities, where agriculture remains a primary source of livelihood. Moreover, the decline in agricultural output has broader socioeconomic consequences which includes increased unemployment rate, reduced household incomes, and heightened vulnerability among already marginalized populations.

Adding to the pressure is a noticeable shift, where young people are increasingly migrating from rural areas to cities in search of better opportunities. While this is understandable, it has been noted to create a gap in agricultural labour. Consequently, limiting the sector’s potential to reduce youth unemployment and increase output.

This report is a FREE Publication written and authored through collaboration with RDJ Consulting Services CC based in Windhoek, Namibia.

The content is collected from publicly available information and so its accuracy cannot be guaranteed.

In this April 2025 edition, our team explores how agriculture can help shape Namibia’s agricultural future. We delve into smart farming approaches, the potential of nuclear power for Namibia , and the prospects of green schemes or smart irrigation schemes. Though energy-intensive, green schemes are designed to support food security and economic development through sustainable, water-efficient practices.

As always, the conversation continues at infocus@rdjpublishing.africa .

Yours, editor@rdjpublishing.africa

(David A. Jarrett) Editor in Chief

(Grace Kangotue) Editor

NOTE 1: We welcome letters and articles from readers globally and require that you provide your full details such as name, current address and contact phone/WhatsApp number as well as email. We however reserve the right to amend, modify or reject submissions. You may also request that your details be withheld from publication.

NOTE 2: InFocus Namibia is published monthly and is FREE to Readers.

The magazine is paid for by advertising and the research support from RDJ Consulting Services CC, Windhoek, Namibia.

RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd is the publishing home of the InFocus Namibia, written and authored through the collaboration with RDJ Consulting Services CC (www.rdjconsulting.co.za).

PO Box 23738 Windhoek, NAMIBIA Telephone +264 81 750 3010 Email info@rdjpublishing.africa WEBSITE www.rdjpublishing.africa

RDJ Consulting Services CC is an advisory consultancy to the Energy, Water and Transport Sectors with a focus on sustainable operations and renewable energy.

Quick Facts

N A M I B I A POPULATION 3,022,401

SIZE

Male

Female

1,474,224

87%

36.9%

LITERACY RATE (15+ YEARS) (2023)

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE (2023)

1,548,177

AGRICULTURE (Q4 2024)

151 359

0.56

6.75

GDP CONSTANT 2015 PRICES (N$ million) (2023)

GINI COEFFICIENT (2023)

REPO RATE (Apr 2025)

4,758 tons in total AGRONOMY PRODUCTS (i.e., millet, white maize, and wheat)

4.20

10.50

N$1,396.1 million exported

PRIME LENDING RATE (Mar 2025)

HORTICULTURAL PRODUCTS (i.e., Grapes, Tomatoes, and Onions)

INFLATION (CPI) (Mar 2025)

2023 632 MW/h POWER DEMAND AT PEAK

82,794 total number

3,856,000 MWh

ANIMALS AUCTIONED (i.e., Cattle, Goats and Sheep)

TOTAL ELECTRICITY UNITS SOLD Local Generation - Energy (%)

62,281 metric tons TOTAL OF FISHING QUOTA (i.e., Horse Mackerel, Hake and Monk)

42%

Energy Imports (%)

58%

SOURCE: RDJ CONSULTING SERVICES CC

Economy at Large Namibia and Agriculture for Job Creation and Rural Livelihoods: 2015 to 2025.

AUTHOR: David Jarrett and Team Editor @ RDJ Publishing and RDJ Group Chief Executive Officer

Courtesy: Conservation Agriculture key in achieving sustainable food systems in Namibia

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amibia's government has implemented several policies over the years aimed at addressing unemployment and fostering job creation,

particularly among youth and marginalized groups. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to achieve inclusive economic growth and reduce poverty.

Agriculture is Namibia's largest employer, providing jobs to approximately 23% of the labor force. This sector is crucial for food security and income, especially in rural areas where it supports the majority of households. Despite challenges such as climate variability and limited industrialization, agriculture continues to be a vital source of employment and economic stability.

The Namibia Agricultural Mechanization and Seed Improvement Project (NAMSIP), launched in 2017, has been instrumental in modernizing the sector. By 2024, the project exceeded its seed production target and created over 600 jobs, including 100 permanent positions. Additionally, 1,200 farmers received training in mechanization and seed production techniques.

Despite its importance, agriculture faces several challenges: Namibia's predominantly arid climate, characterized by low and highly variable rainfall such as the recent floods after a prolonged drought, presents inherent challenges to agricultural productivity. As a result, food security is

increasingly threatened, particularly for rural communities that depend heavily on agriculture for their livelihoods.

Moreover, the decline in agricultural output has broader socioeconomic consequences, including rising unemployment, reduced household incomes, and heightened vulnerability among already marginalized populations.

There is a noticeable trend of youth migrating from rural to urban areas, leading to a shortage of labor in agriculture.

This migration hampers the sector's growth and its potential to reduce unemployment among young people.

To help counteract this, one initiative is the Development Bank of Namibia action or products, offering financial support to youth-owned SMEs through credit facilities and mentorship programs.

While livestock farming dominates, there is an opportunity to diversify into high-value crops and agro-processing, which can create additional jobs and reduce reliance on raw commodity exports.

The future of agriculture in Namibia hinges on strategic investments in sustainable practices, technological innovation, and support for small-scale farmers. Ongoing efforts to align education and training with market needs, as well as to support entrepreneurship, will be crucial in achieving sustainable employment outcomes.

Courtesy: https://iaea.shorthandstories.com/climatesmart-agriculture-Namibia/assets/7dEY9uJCVm/namibia_05-2560x1532.jpg)

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Key Dates SOURCE: RDJ CONSULTING SERVICES CC

REPO RATE

6.75%

Monetary Policy Announcement - April (Published 16 April 2025)

Repo Rate

Bank of Namibia Monetary Policy Announcement Dates Date

Repo Rate 2025 6.75%

6.75%

18 June 2025

7 6

13 August 2025

5 4 3

15 October 2025

2 1

03 December 2025

0

Feb 2025

Apr 2025

Jun 2025

Aug 2025

Oct 2025

Dec 2025

INFLATION RATE

4.20%

Inflation (CPI)

Annual Inflation Rate - March

Monthly Inflation Rate 2025 5 4

3.60%

4.20%

3.20%

3 2 1 0

08

Jan 2025 Feb 2025 Mar 2025 Apr 2025 May 2025 Jun 2025 Jul 2025 Aug 2025 Sep 2025 Oct 2025 Nov 2025 Dec 2025

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Fuel Prices April 2025 Fuel Prices Update Petrol

NAMIBIA

SOUTH AFRICA

ANGOLA

NIGERIA

BOTSWANA

Diesel

Effective as of 02 April 2025

Effective as of 02 April 2025

N$ 20.67/ US$ 1.10

N$ 20.62/ US$ 1.09

per litre Petrol Unleaded 95

per litre Diesel 50ppm

Effective as of 07 April 2025

Effective as of 07 April 2025

R 21.21/ US$ 1.13

R 21.90/ US$ 1.16

per litre Petrol Unleaded 95

per litre Diesel 50ppm

Effective as of 07 April 2025

Effective as of 07 April 2025

Kz 300.00/ US$ 0.33

Kz 300.00/ US$ 0.33

per litre Petrol Unleaded 95

per litre Diesel 50ppm

Effective as of 07 April 2025

Effective as of 07 April 2025

₦ 877.00/ US$ 0.55

₦ 1009.75/ US$ 0.63

per litre Petrol Unleaded 95

per litre Diesel 50ppm

Effective as of 07 April 2025

Effective as of 07 April 2025

P 14.75/

US$ 1.07

P 14.94/ US$ 1.08

per litre Petrol Unleaded 95

per litre Diesel 50ppm

The US$ equivalent refers to current exchange rates (April 2025) Data Source: www.mme.gov.na, theglobaleconomy.com

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Energy Sector Nuclear Power: What must we do?

AUTHOR: David Jarrett and Team Editor @ RDJ Publishing and RDJ Group Chief Executive Officer

Courtesy: https://www.facebook.com/100064770096269/photos/1071668565002137/?_rdr

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ur Excellency, President, Dr. Netumbo NandiNdaitwah has called for the establishment of a nuclear power plant in Namibia. This request is

honestly not new and part of an ongoing debate in the face of the fact that Namibia's identified uranium resources are about 5% to 7% of the world's known total. Added to the understanding that nuclear power requires high quality skillsets translating into high quality jobs, the call ticks several boxes.

The Namibian government over the years have been at pains when asked why are “we” not pursuing nuclear energy (electricity) to point out that nuclear power is considered as a “long-term” option and could be a part of the energy mix going forward. In the same vein, it has also been noted by the former Minister of Mines and Energy (Hon. Tom Alweendo) to be a long process even if a decision was to be made today.

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We have written previously in INFOCUS NAMIBIA (RDJ Publishing Pty Ltd, May 2024), that the import of electricity and its perpetual presence and magnitude as part of Namibia’s consumption profile is making room for various options to plug that gap. Further added is the ambition of many to see the country reverse the import trend and make the country a net exporter.

As further pointed out in INFOCUS NAMIBIA (RDJ Publishing Pty Ltd, March 2024), Namibia needs increased generation of an effective capacity of some 450 MW of mixed technologies for local demand with 220 MW already committed under the NamPower 2019 – 2023 Strategic Plan as well as the 2025 Ministerial Determination of some 300 MW and several more MW’s under the Modified single-buyer (MSB) profile and South Africa is seeking to ramp up local generation in excess of 10 000 MW.

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Namibia exports around 2 000 tonnes of Uranium annually that would equate to approx.

88 TWh or 22 years of Namibia’s current electricity demand

On the other hand, Namibia is an exporter of energy in the form of uranium yellow cake, contributing some N$ 4.7 billion to GDP in 2023. Based on figures from a Chamber of Mines piece, Namibia exports around 2 000 tonnes of Uranium annually that would equate to approximately 88 TWh or 22 years of Namibia’s current electricity demand.

Water shortages due to droughts are nothing new for the country and as they increase in intensity due to climate changes, the matter will require more long-term approaches. InFocus Namibia has pointed out the approaches to obtaining nuclear energy before are onerous and have a long-time based pathway for realisation.

So what would it take?

In the pursuit of solutions, the question of whether to adopt nuclear power remains a significant consideration.

Recognizing the complexity and long-term implications of such a decision, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) offers guidance through its "Milestones Approach".

This strategic framework, encompassing three distinct phases, towards informed choices regarding nuclear energy implementation.

Why Nuclear: This initial phase focuses on clarifying the rationale behind considering nuclear energy as a viable option. Namibia needs to evaluate their energy needs, environmental concerns, and strategic objectives to ascertain whether nuclear power aligns with their long-term development plans.

Preparation (What and How): In the preparation phase, countries delve into the practical aspects of initiating a nuclear program. This requires painstaking planning, regulatory framework establishment, infrastructure development, and human resource capacity building. The emphasis is on laying a solid foundation for safe, secure, and sustainable nuclear energy utilization.

Build/Operation Phase: The culmination of the Milestones Approach involves the actual construction and operation of nuclear facilities. This phase demands stringent adherence to established safety protocols, ongoing regulatory oversight, and proactive engagement with stakeholders to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the lifecycle of nuclear power generation.

Embarking on a nuclear program is no small endeavor as it requires substantial time, resources, and commitment.

Effect of discount rate on median levelized cost of electricity (LCOE)

Courtesy: OECD Nuclear Energy Agency

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Courtesy: Getty Images SIgnature

According to the IAEA, the setup of a nuclear program can span up to 15 years, with a subsequent operational lifespan extending over a century. Such a significant undertaking underscores the need for careful consideration and strategic planning to mitigate risks and maximize benefits.

nuclear power area. The estimated cost ultimately estimated by Sweden is some N$ 715 billion for 2 500 MW or N$ 286 million per MW. Estimates run the electricity produced at USD 0.076 (N$ 1.45) per kWh not factoring any over-runs or economy of scale deficiencies.

Crucial to the success of any nuclear initiative is the alignment of interests among stakeholders and the judicious allocation of financial resources. The decision to pursue nuclear power must factor in the diverse needs and concerns of the various stakeholders, ranging from policymakers and industry players to the general public and environmental advocates. Moreover, the financial feasibility of a nuclear program hinges on prudent investment strategies, cost-benefit analyses, and long-term budgetary planning. This latter factor is crucial.

While it is not my place to review or contradict comments or views of Her Excellency, Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, we all can agree that at the end of the day, what is crucial is for Namibia to have a “fit for purpose” energy mix.

Fifth-Generation (5th Gen) Systems Looking ahead, the current evolution of nuclear technology holds promise for enhanced safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Fifth-generation (5th Gen) nuclear systems, are currently in the Research and Development (R&D) phase, represent the next frontier in nuclear energy innovation.

With prototypes projected by 2029 and commercial production anticipated by 2034, these advanced reactors offer potential solutions to existing challenges.

Research and development (R&D), is an essential component leading to experiential growth and training needs understanding. I rest my case as I only have an opinion and am not a national decision maker.

Experiences of others South Africa notes that their 2.5 GW Nuclear program could cost approximately Rand 400 billion, while Sweden recently announced the government has proposed investing SEK100 million (N$ 193.7 million) in 2025 to support pilot and SEK1 billion (N$ 1.937 billion) demonstration projects in the

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All technologies are like drinking water. Water is good for you but if too much it drowns you. So too much solar in the wrong locations has a negative impact and effect. Overuse of nuclear will have a similar impact and an even higher effect.

https://www.world-nuclear-news.org/articles/sweden-budgets-fornuclear-new-build https://www.world-nuclear-news.org/Articles/Namibia-seeks-to-useits-own-reserves Namibia Broadcasting (NBC) - - https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=ldODTefgKVc https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/sweden-proposes-stateloans-new-nuclear-reactors-2025-03-27/ https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/price-tag-new-nuclearpower-sweden-38-bln-commission-says-2024-08-12/ https://world-nuclear.org/information-library/economicaspects/financing-nuclear-energy

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Off-Grid Electrification: The REDs Readiness AUTHOR: Grace Kangotue Chief Researcher/Economist @RDJ Consulting CC

Courtesy: RDJ Consulting

S

ince Independence, the Republic of Namibia Government has actively promoted country-wide electrification efforts. Urban electrification has

largely been the ambit of Regional Electricity Distributors (REDs) and local authorities. In rural Namibia, electrification efforts were guided by successive Rural Electricity Distribution Master Plans (REDMPs), which primarily focused on grid-based electricity delivery.

In 2021, an estimated 71 percent of all households in urban and 19 percent of the rural areas had access to electricity, including off-grid sources, resulting in a national electrification rate of approximately 45 percent.

During the past decades, informal settlements around urban centres have expanded rapidly. Often, the rate at which such areas are electrified, if at all, is much lower than their growth. It is now widely recognized that electrifying low-income households requires both capital and operational subsidies. At the same time, the commercial viability of most Namibian electricity distribution entities

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remains marginal. Therefore, electrification obligations of licensees, especially when including off-grid electrification targets, would increase the risk of failure of such entities or increase electricity prices unless external funding is made available.

Electrification in urban and urban informal areas is undertaken by licensed distributors, including REDs and/or local authorities. In urban formal areas, electricity infrastructure is usually paid for by end-users through the sale of serviced land, while in urban informal areas it is usually funded by the distributor. Many of Namibia’s unelectrified areas are far away from the grid and are characterised by low population densities and/or highly dispersed settlements. Often, it is neither technically nor economically justifiable to provide access to electricity by way of a grid connection. It is therefore imperative that electrification efforts are advanced in ways other than by providing a connection to the grid.

Namibia's electrification policy employs a multi-tier

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framework to categorize electricity access levels. With Tier 3 serving as the minimum standard for considering a household electrified. This level provides 696 kWh (approximately N$1,740 annually or N$145 monthly) of electricity supply, which is sufficient to power lighting, radio, phone charging, a television, fan, and small refrigerator, supporting medium-load appliances and extended electricity usage.

Electricity in Namibia is mainly delivered via grid connection, a mini-grid or other stand-alone supply. To expand access in off-grid areas, the government is increasingly exploring mini-grids as a viable solution to aid achieve its goal of universal access to electricity by 2040.

In support of this goal, RDJ recently [April 2025] attended a training week to support the Namibia Energy Institute (NEI) to carry out a short-term training programme. The programme was designed for both the Puros community (end-users) and the Northern Regional Electricity Distributor (NORED), which will operate the mini-grid currently under construction in Puros.

The training developed by Technical University of Ulm’s (THU) Institute for Decentralised Electrification Entrepreneurship and Education (ID-EEE), in collaboration with the Namibia Energy Institute (NEI) and RDJ Consulting (RDJ), was aimed to equip the utility, the Northern Regional Electricity Distributor (NORED)’s technical personnel with the necessary skills required to operate and maintain the mini grid currently in the construction phase in Puros.

Participants were introduced to common causes of mini grid system failures, which often stems from a combination of technical, financial, social, and management challenges.

The course also provided guidance on operational procedures and maintenance requirements to ensure the long-term sustainability of solar-powered mini-grids.

The Puros’ mini grid will be the third solar-powered mini grid operated by a RED, following the Tsumkwe and Gam mini grids, both operated by the Central North Regional Electricity Distributor (CENORED). Learns and experiences from these two mini grids will be wealth to fuel future mini grids development around the country.

While solar mini-grids represent a promising solution for off-grid electrification in Namibia, their success depends heavily on hands-on technical training for utilities and on user awareness. Strengthening both REDs’ operational capacities and community understanding, particularly to avoid issues like nighttime overloading is critical for sustainable outcomes.

Readings: https://www.ecb.org.na/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/NationalElectrification-Policy-Final-2021215.cleaned.pdf https://www.ecb.org.na/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/NationalElectrification-Policy-Final-2021215.cleaned.pdf RDJ Consulting Puros Project Reports.

Courtesy: RDJ Consulting

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Solar Energy Production

Agriculture Green Schemes or Smart Schemes?

AUTHOR: David Jarrett and Team Editor @ RDJ Publishing and RDJ Group Chief Executive Officer

Courtesy: Canva

N

amibia's "Green Schemes" are aimed at food security and promoting irrigation-based farming to enhance food security and economic development.

However, several challenges have impeded their success, and as a result smart agriculture technologies offer viable solutions to address these issues. In the framework of all business transaction and definitely with agriculture projects an example of this shows that limited funding has led to underutilization of agricultural land and reduced productivity.

The Kalimbeza Rice Project, initiated in the early 2000s is aimed at promoting food security and economic development through large-scale rice cultivation. Located in the Zambezi Region known for its agricultural potential and proximity to one of Namibia’s two perennial rivers, the

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project was established to produce rice locally, reducing the country’s reliance on imported rice. Additionally, it aims to promote economic development, especially in rural areas, by creating jobs and developing agricultural infrastructure. The Kalimbeza rice project however experienced a decline in production due to insufficient funds and equipment maintenance issues.

Data management is key in better understanding the challenges and opportunities. Smart agriculture solutions that can help improve operations include the implementation of precision agriculture tools that utilize data analytics to optimize resource allocation, ensuring that investments are directed toward high-return areas.

This will also require the adoption of data driven financial management systems to monitor expenditures and identify

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Courtesy: Getty Images SIgnature

cost-saving opportunities, thereby improving costs and fund utilization.

The deployment of farm management software will help streamline operations, from procurement to production, enhancing coordination and reducing delays. Some of these softwares will utilize Internet of Things (IoT) sensors to monitor crop health and soil conditions in real-time, enabling prompt decision-making and reducing the need for frequent site visits.

Another area of cost containment and concern is irrigation.

It is well experienced that irrigation is energy-intensive, leading to substantial energy, particularly electricity bills which can strain financial resources. Some green schemes have reported monthly electricity costs reaching in excess of N$400,000.

and lower electricity expenses through a fixed known energy cost profile. Smart grids and energy management systems help also to optimize energy consumption, schedule irrigation during off-peak hours, and monitor energy usage patterns.

Although not a “smart” matter, outdated or “old” equipment have impeded efficient farming operations. Use IoT-enabled sensors to monitor equipment health, predict failures, and schedule maintenance, thereby extending equipment lifespan and reducing downtime.

It is clear that integrating these smart agriculture solutions, Namibia's green schemes can overcome existing challenges, leading to enhanced productivity, financial sustainability, and improved livelihoods for Green Schemes and farmers.

Investment in renewable energy such as solar-powered irrigation systems, help reduce reliance on the national grid

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NAMIBIA DAM LEVELS UPDATE (April 2025)

Dam's Full Capacity (in Mm3)

Present Volume April 2025 (in Mm3)

100

1000

80 800

600

400

40

200

20

H ar da p

N ec ka rt al

0

0 N Sw au te ak op po or t Vo n Ba O ch lu sh an dj O a m O ar m ur at u ak D o el ta D am O an ob D re O ih tji uk ve ro M O ai tji n ve ro Si lt Fr ie O d m en at au je nn e D am G or ea ng Ti ab ld a Vi ljo en Bo nd D el aa s n Vi ljo en

Water Volume (in Mm3)

60

Name of Reservoir Author’s analysis and representation of NamWater’s weekly dam bulletin - dated 22 April 2025

DEFICIT 9.9%

CAPACITY

1556.71 Mm3

According to records by NamWater’s weekly Dam Bulletins, Namibia has a total Reservoir capacity of 1556.71 million cubic meters (Mm3), whose present volumes stand at 1402.37 Mm3 (or 90.1 %). This means that the country’s water deficit is currently 154.34 Mm3 (or 9.9%).

58.9% Present % of Full Capacity 17 March 2025

90.1% Present % of Full Capacity 22 April 2025

AVAILABILITY 90.1%

SOURCE: RDJ CONSULTING SERVICES CC

Executive Spotlight Spotlight on Mr. Lawson Manyika Interview by Ms. Nicole Felix (Chief Designer - RDJ Publishing)

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I

n today’s Executive Spotlight Series, we are honoured to feature Mr. Lawson Manyika, the Founder and Managing Consultant of AgriTech Namibia.

1) CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR EXECUTIVE ROLE? As the Founder & Managing Consultant of AgriTech Namibia, I serve as a key driver in scaling the impact of our Climate Smart Agriculture company, which focuses on mobilizing climate finance through engagement and partnering with rural communities, conservancies, farmers organisations and Community Based Organisations [CBO’s], and implementing innovative, sustainable projects primarily in rural communities.

My role blends strategic leadership, technical consulting, stakeholder engagement, and project execution to drive measurable climate resilience, food security, and socio-economic outcomes on the ground. I oversee the project design and needs assessment processes, and deployment of technical projects implemtation teams, while cultivating strategic partnerships with donors, government agencies, NGOs, and private sector stakeholders.

My key strengths and responsibility in this regard is my ability to align and translate global climate goals into actionable, community-led initiatives that are central to the success of our mission as a technical projects supporing entity.

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2) WHERE DOES AGRITECH NAMIBIA DERIVE ITS MANDATE? We derive our mandate primarily from a combination of global climate goals, national development priorities, local development/community needs, and donor strategies/funding partner priorities to ensure that our work contributes to both top-down policy alignment and bottomup impact.

3) WHAT IS THE VISION, MISSION, AND VALUE PROPOSITION OF THE ORGANIZATION THAT YOU LEAD? Vision "To create climate-resilient rural and urban communities [through urban smart agriculture concepts] where sustainable agriculture thrives, ecosystems are restored, and livelihoods flourish in harmony with nature."

Mission "To empower primarily rural communities through innovative, climatesmart agricultural solutions by designing, mobilising funding and implementing projects that enhance food security, build resilience to climate change, and promote sustainable natural resource management."

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Value Proposition AgriTech Namibia offers a unique blend of technical expertise, climate finance know-how, and community-centered implementation. We specialize in transforming climate goals into practical, inclusive, and scalable agricultural projects that address food security, environmental degradation, and livelihood vulnerability through: Climate Agriculture Proposal writing Partnering with Community Based Organisations and Conservancies to mobilise climate finance for climate mitigation and adaptation projects.

Project Management Agri-Structures [Greenhouses, Hydroponics models, Goat pens, Commercial poultry houses ets] Consulting, Advisory, Training & Development

4. AS A MENTOR, WHAT ARE SOME OF THE KEY ATTRIBUTES DO YOU BRING TO LEADING YOUR ORGANIZATION? Visionary Leadership This comes as a natural strength as I Inspires teams with a clear, purpose-driven vision rooted in climate resilience and sustainable development.

Technical Authority with Practical Insight I have expertise in climate-smart practices, agroecology, land restoration, and climate finance, and this allows me to easily draw audiences and gain respect from peers and colleagues.

Empowering & Inclusive I strive to fosters a learning culture that values diversity of thought, backgrounds, and lived experiences, whilst mentoring junior staff, especially women and youth, to take ownership of projects and grow into leadership roles.

Effective Communication & Listening Skills I encourage open dialogue, feedback, reflective learning, and model effective communication with diverse stakeholders, from smallholder farmers to government officials and donors.

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5. WHAT ASPECT OF YOUR SECTOR KEEPS YOU AWAKE AT NIGHT? As a Managing Consultant, I constantly ask myself: Are we moving fast enough to deliver truly transformative solutions and not just incremental change?

Are we listening deeply enough to the people on the ground, those whose lives depend on the land?

The weight of these questions keeps me up, because while we’ve made incredible strides in climate-smart agriculture, the scale and pace of implementation still lag behind the realities of the climate emergency.

And perhaps most importantly, are we building systems that are truly just and inclusive or are we unintentionally replicating top-down approaches that leave people behind?

6. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT TO DATE LEADING THE ORGANIZATION? My proudest moment has been when I pioneered the low cost hydroponics fodder production model that was eventually adopted by the Namibian Government in 2019 at the peak of the drought season.

Our intervention was rolled out nationally with administrative support from the Namibia National Farmers Union and the Ministry of Agriculture. We capacitated all the agricultural technicians within the Ministry of Agriculture through Training of Trainers, provided technical support and mentorship throughout the implementation of the national project. We managed to impact up to 15,000 communal farmers and the project was a resounding success. Farmers are still using our intervention and it has been taken up by neighbouring countries whom we hare also assisting in the project rollout.

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Tenders

Electricity Control Board Description: Request for Proposal – Provide Consultancy Services for the Design, Customization and Implementation of the Electronic Documents and Records Management System (EDRMS) and Digital Archival System on SharePoint 365 for the Electricity Control Board (ECB).

Bid Closing date: 30 April 2025 at 12h00 Namibian Time https://www.ecb.org.na/procurement/ NamPower Description: Supply, Delivering, Testing and Commissioning of Medium Voltage Distribution Transformers and Oil Filled Shunt Reactors.

Bid Closing date: 02 May 2025 Namibian Time https://www.nampower.com.na/Bid.aspx?id=272135 Municipality Of Mariental Description: The Supply and Delivery of PPE, Electrical Department for the Mariental Municipality.

Bid Closing date: 07 May 2025 at 10h00 Namibian Time https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tBl2EIol2tKg7XqET18dOmH9mW-EsBHA/view NamWater Description: Supply and Delivery of Gas Chlorination System for the Omitara WSS. Bid Closing date: 08 May 2025 at 11h00 Namibian Time https://www.namwater.com.na/index.php/quotations/22-procurement/886-supply-and-delivery-of-gas-chlorination-systemfor-the-omitara-wss Erongo RED Description: Supply And Delivery of Microsoft Licenses and Related Services Through the Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) Business premium for a Period of three (3) years.

Bid Closing date: 09 May 2025 at 10h00 AM Namibian Time https://www.erongored.com/tenders/ NamPower Description: Designing, Manufacturing, Delivering, Installing, Testing and Commissioning of Power Transformers - Bid #3.

Bid Closing date: 23 May 2025 at 10h00 Namibian Time https://www.nampower.com.na/Bid.aspx?id=272137

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CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS

NICOLE FELIX CHIEF DESIGNER (LAYOUT AND DESIGN) @RDJ PUBLISHING

DAVID JARRETT EDITOR IN CHIEF AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER @RDJ GROUP

SILPA KANGHONO COORDINATOR: DIGITAL MARKETING AND EVENTS @RDJ PUBLISHING

LAHJA AMAAMBO CONTRIBUTING AUTHOR @RDJ GROUP

PUBLISHED BY:

GRACE KANGOTUE CHIEF RESEARCHER/ECONOMIST EDITOR @ RDJ CONSULTING

CHILOMBO OLGA PRISCILA CONTRIBUTING AUTHOR @RDJ GROUP

RESEARCH BY:

RENEE JARRETT EXECUTIVE - ADMINISTRATION @RDJ GROUP

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