Under the unrelenting Namibian sun, a flourishing garden emerges as a testament to resilience and hope. In Katima Mulilo Rural, where nature’s rhythms blend seamlessly with the pulse of daily life, Manga Lubanda leads the Bush2Feed pilot project. Supported by the Namibian Integrated Landscape Approach for Enhancing Livelihoods and Environmental Governance to Eradicate Poverty (NILALEG) Project, which is implemented by the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme and funded by the Global Environment Facility, this initiative addresses the pressing challenges of drought and food insecurity by transforming arid land into a productive oasis that supports local farmers and their livestock. 

NILALEG’s support has empowered a local gardener, Manga Lubanda, with seeds for essential crops such as lablab beans, cowpeas, and lucerne. These crops provide critical cattle feed to neighbouring farmers struggling with barren grazing lands and nutrient-deficient livestock diets. Having received formal training in Kalimbeza Village, Lubanda has turned her garden into a hub of agricultural activity, supporting both her family and the local farming community.

To meet the constant demand for livestock feed, she employs a strategic planting system, cultivating vegetation at three stages: seedlings, maturing crops, and almost-ripe harvests. This approach ensures a steady supply of feed even in the face of challenging conditions. Alongside seeds and fertilizer, a milling machine provided by NILALEG has become important to Lubanda’s operation, allowing her to prepare high-quality feed such as sunflower-based chicken feed, Nipier grass, and Teff grass. Often mixed with salt to enhance nutritional value, these feeds are milled three to four times a month, depending on demand. 

Manga’s dedication goes beyond her personal achievements. Through actively mentoring community members in sustainable farming practices, she inspires others to unlock the potential of their land, fostering collaboration and growth in the region. “I always encourage my community to start their own gardens. I’m happy to offer short training sessions and share my knowledge,” she smiles, reflecting her passion for empowering those around her. Her garden also serves as a source of employment for two young men, contributing to job creation and skills development. Through these efforts, Manga empowers her community to adopt innovative agricultural solutions, strengthening collective resilience against environmental challenges.

Manga Lubanda’s story is a powerful testament to determination and hope, demonstrating how passion and support can turn challenges into opportunities. Her thriving garden not only provides sustenance for her family and community but also highlights the importance of perseverance and innovation in overcoming resource constraints. While grateful for the progress made, Lubanda remains optimistic about the future. 

Other than addressing immediate agricultural needs, the Bush2Feed initiative also serves broader environmental and economic goals by providing a sustainable source of livestock feed. This effort alleviates pressure on natural grazing lands, fostering land restoration and conservation. With unwavering dedication and support, Manga’s vision for a greener, more sustainable future is within reach.