Namibia Grape Company (NGC), through a partnership with Capespan, says the country’s table grape exports have increased to 2.4 million cartons in 2024, from the 1.4 million recorded in 2007.
According to Capespan Managing Director, Charl Du Bois, the company has expanded NGC’s export network to over 35 global markets.
He said the company is committed to further growing these opportunities, expanding shipments through Walvis Bay.
“With new plantings, improved infrastructure, access to world-class breeding programmes and best farming practices, the NGC managed to increase production from 1.4 million cartons in 2007 to 2.4 million cartons in 2024, a phenomenal 71% increase,” he said.
This comes as the two companies signed a contract extension up to 2045.
The partnership promises continued economic growth, job creation and sustainable development in Namibia’s agricultural sector.
According to NGC Chairperson, Richwell Lukonga, the renewed agreement, finalised in November 2023, features a joint venture model with a 51% stake held by NGC and a 49% stake by Capespan.
Additionally, NGC’s lease cost or guaranteed profit would increase to N$17 million per annum, with a 3.5% annual escalation, providing financial stability over the next 20 years.
He further mentioned that NGC would cover the farm’s capital expenditure requirements in proportion to their JV share, while both NGC and Capespan would jointly manage the annual working capital needs and any incurred losses.
Capespan would also benefit from a long-term marketing agreement for the JV’s produce, with reviews scheduled every five years.
“With any partnership, it reaches a form of maturity that requires review, reflection, and assessment. From an NGC perspective, the partnership provided an opportunity to overcome its financial distress, reach a form of sustainability, and create much-needed employment, both permanent and seasonal.
The Namibia Grape Company, located at Aussenkehr in the //Kharas region, is under the full custodianship of the National Youth Service.
