LocationsBy Frida Frans and Meitavelo Litulamo Himufe
NILALEG’s Multifaceted Impact: Empowering Communities through Livelihood Initiatives
January 3, 2025
Sustainable Livestock Provision
NILALEG’s livestock initiative has empowered communities by providing cattle and goats, along with training in animal husbandry. The project handed over 48 cattle worth N$ 600 040.00 to 12 (6 females and 6 males) small-scale farmers in Zambezi each received 4 cattle, 3 cows and 1 bull. Ruacana beneficiaries received 220 goats. Other Beneficiaries are across locations such as Omaoipanga, Okongo , Nkurivere, and Zambezi have also seen improvements in nutrition and soil fertility through milk and manure production.
Despite challenges, such as animal disease outbreaks, many participants have reaped significant benefits.
Tresia, a youth farmer from Lusese, received four cattle that increased her herd from seven to eleven, enabling her to produce milk for her family. While she faced setbacks—including losing a cow to a crocodile—her gratitude and determination remain unwavering. “The cattle I received have not only provided tangible benefits but also inspired me to dream bigger,” she said.
Carpentry Projects: A Path to Financial Independence
In Okongo village, the carpentry initiative has created a sustainable income source for the community. With NILALEG’s support in providing machinery such as Table Saw, Jigsaw, Router, Jointer, Compressors, Polishing Machine, Spray Booth, Drill Press, CNC Router Machines among others and operational costs, the project processed 1,750 wood trunks between August and October 2024, generating a profit of N$68,825 and employing 12 workers. Similarly, the Mutjimagumwe workshop (MW) in Mpungu empowered 18 artisans with the same type of machinery, and training in entrepreneurship was given to the 18 F (0), M (18) paving the way for long-term sustainability.
Beekeeping: A Sweet Source of Income
The Sikanjabuka Beekeeping Initiative has empowered 21 community members, including (9 men and 12 women), with training and equipment for apiculture. With a 500-gram jar of honey retailing at N$100, the initiative generates approximately N$10,000 annually. Beyond income, participants have gained a deeper understanding of the ecological importance of bees. Plans are underway to expand the market reach regionally and internationally, ensuring long-term sustainability.
