The Namibian Agronomic Board has recognised the Sikondo and Etunda Green Scheme Irrigation Projects for their outstanding contributions to the nation’s agricultural success at the 2024 National Agronomy and Horticulture Awards (NAHA).
The Sikondo Green Scheme Irrigation Project, located in the Kavango Production Zone, was awarded Outstanding Wheat Producer of the Year.
The Etunda Green Scheme Irrigation Project in the North Central Production Zone took home the title of Emerging Wheat Producer of the Year.
Both projects are currently under the supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform.
“The NAHA awards celebrate those who have made outstanding contributions to the crop industry. These awards not only honour exceptional achievements, but also inspire others to pursue excellence in their agribusinesses,” said NAB board chairperson Hubertus Hamm.
Other winners at the awards included Okaperuperu Farming CC from the Central production zone, which was recognised as the Outstanding White Maize Producer of the Year, and Prettiness Tubazimbe Muitati, also from the Kavango Production Zone, who earned the title of Emerging White Maize Producer of the Year.
“Namibia faces unique agricultural challenges, including a dry climate, poor soils, and limited water resources, all compounded by high production costs. Yet, despite these obstacles, we have not only persevered, but have also pioneered innovative solutions to thrive. The resilience of our crop-value chain actors is commendable,” he said.
Key individuals and organisations were also honoured for their contributions across Namibia’s diverse agricultural sectors.
Moses Mapani, from the Zambezi Region, won Outstanding Pearl Millet Producer of the Year, while Mutumbulwa Anneli Emilie, from Oshikoto was named Emerging Pearl Millet Producer of the Year.
The awards also recognised Chipalanga David Tuhafeni from Kavango as the Outstanding Youth Producer of the Year, and Anni Matias from Oshikoto as the Outstanding Innovator Producer of the Year.
Major service providers and processors also received recognition, with Bokomo Namibia taking home the award for Outstanding Grain Processor of the Year and Green Crisp Farming from the Central production zone named Best Horticulture Producer of the Year.
