Katima Mulilo, Zambezi Region: A burgeoning fruit farming industry is taking root in the Zambezi Region, as farmers increasingly recognize the lucrative potential of this agricultural venture.
One such farmer, Calicious Simone from Singalamwe, has embraced fruit farming over the past three years, transforming his land into a thriving orchard. His farm boasts over 2,000 banana plants, 4,000 mango trees, and 500 guava trees, along with a variety of other fruits sourced from neighbouring countries.
Simone envisions a future where his farm becomes a hub for value-added fruit products. “Value addition is a must,” he emphasizes, recognizing the importance of minimizing post-harvest losses. “We can’t just produce without processing.”
The Zambezi Region’s fertile soil and favourable climate provide ideal conditions for fruit cultivation. Simone acknowledges the support of organizations like the Namibia Agronomic Board (NAB), which has provided technical assistance and seedlings to local farmers.
By embracing fruit farming, farmers in the Zambezi Region are not only diversifying their income sources but also contributing to food security and economic growth. Simone’s success story serves as an inspiration for other farmers to tap into the region’s agricultural potential and create a thriving fruit industry.
