Maria David
AT 70 years old, Fillipus Haulofu has proven that one needs drive and a clear vision when venturing into pig farming.
Haulofu, who runs a pig farming project called ‘Limbandungile’ at Ondobe village, about 35 km west of Eenhana, said that he is now able to earn an income that sustains him and his family.
According to Haulofu, they started their pig farming enterprise 28 years ago with the hope of earning an honest income and enhancing food security at the household and community levels.
“When we started our pig farming project, we didn’t just have ourselves in mind but also our entire community and beyond,” he said.
He explained that each year, they give local taxi drivers a pig to enjoy, allowing them to relax after the long year of road work they do.
Haulofu also indicated that they assist community members who come seeking help. However, the primary aim of the project is to make a living for themselves.
He said that the funds generated through selling the pigs have helped him support his daughter in obtaining her doctorate degree.
According to Haulofu, they sell their pigs for prices ranging from as little as N$400 to N$3,000, depending on the size.
He thanked the Japanese Embassy for assisting him with materials needed to construct their pig shelters, saying that it saved them from losing more pigs due to heat.
They were also assisted with pig feed.
Haulofu explained that pigs need a moisturized area to survive, and the assistance came at the right time.
“We are trying our best to work hard in order to not be dependent on anyone,” he added.
However, Haulofu indicated that they are currently faced with a low market where they can sell their products.
Hisao Nishimaki, the Ambassador of Japan to Namibia, said they are happy to see progress happening at the project.
Nishimaki indicated that they understand the farmers are trying to expand their project and should reach out to the embassy for assistance when needed.
The embassy, through the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, supported the project with pig housing infrastructure.
