Staff Writer
The Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board has identified the Namibia Berries Blueberry Project as a driver of agricultural diversification, rural development, and job creation in the Kavango East Region.
The project is located in Divundu and is being developed by Loxworth Capital, with facilitation by NIPDB in partnership with government ministries, including the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development.
It is the largest blueberry farming investment currently underway in Namibia.
About N$400 million has been invested so far. Total planned capital expenditure is estimated at N$1.5 billion over seven years. The investment is expected to support long-term agricultural growth and strengthen Namibia’s position in the export market for high-value crops.
Current operations cover about 115 hectares under cultivation.
The project employs 120 permanent workers and about 700 temporary workers during peak periods, making it a major source of employment in the region.
The first phase was launched on land allocated by the Divundu Village Council, which provided 240 hectares for the project.
Phase one covers 50 hectares and has created more than 80 permanent jobs and 250 temporary positions. Further land is being considered as part of the expansion.
Namibia Berries plans to expand cultivation to 250 hectares. The expansion is expected to create close to 1 000 permanent jobs and up to 5 000 seasonal jobs during harvest periods.
Blueberries from the farm have already reached international markets. During the 2024 and 2025 harvest seasons, exports were shipped to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, positioning Namibia as a new player in the global blueberry market.
The project has also introduced community development initiatives. These include community crop production projects, agricultural skills training, and the installation of water points and boreholes to improve access to clean water.
Other social investments include upgrading local preschools and installing solar-powered streetlights to improve safety in nearby communities.
NIPDB said the Namibia Berries Blueberry Project shows how focused agricultural investment can deliver economic returns while supporting national goals of economic diversification and rural development.
Caption
Approximately N$400 million has been invested in the Namibia Berries Blueberry Project, with total planned capital expenditure estimated at N$1.5 billion over a seven-year period.
- Photo: Contributed
