Staff Reporter
INFORMATION and Communication Technology Minister Emma Theofelus has praised the Etunda Irrigation Scheme in the Omusati Region for its contribution to local food production, job creation and the reduction of agricultural imports.
Theofelus visited the scheme in the Ruacana Constituency, where she toured grape vineyards, asparagus fields, maize plantations, mango orchards and banana trial plots.
During the visit, the minister commended the level of local production at Etunda, noting its role in reducing Namibia’s reliance on imported produce such as asparagus, mangoes, bananas, potatoes, onions and tomatoes, while also creating employment opportunities for local communities.
Photos: Ministry of Information and Communication Technology – Republic of Namibia
She highlighted asparagus as a high-value crop with strong potential to contribute meaningfully to the national economy.
Theofelus also acknowledged the current surplus mango harvest at the scheme, saying it presents opportunities for affordable, locally produced fruit juice. She said a fruit juice processing initiative is already in the pipeline in collaboration with the University of Namibia (UNAM).
She further noted the importance of the maize plantation, which supports maize meal production, fresh corn consumption and the supply of animal feed.
Etunda Irrigation Scheme currently offers a variety of fresh produce, including mangoes, carrots, onions, tomatoes, maize and cabbage, which is sold to the public at affordable prices.
