Walvis Bay Group request assistance with Poultry Project

Ms. Kapopo in discussion with Project members

A community group of six women and four men from Walvis Bay requested assistance from the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry with the establishment of a poultry project in Ohangwena region, Ohangwena Constituency, Okakwa village.
Mr. Burger and Ms. Kapopo from the Extension Office in Omaruru met the group at the State Veterinarian office in Walvis Bay. Dr. Homateni from the Vet office assisted with animal health recommendations.

Project members were also informed about the available channels, the Ministry is using to avail chicken to farmers in the Hardap and Karas regions as well as in the northern Communal areas. They were also informed about the pros and cons of forming a cooperative.

Findings

• The project has acquired land in Okakwa village, Ohangwena constituency in Ohangwena region.
•   Project members have no agricultural background.
•  Most of the members are based in Walvis Bay. Only one is in Ohangwena region. Others are in Walvis Bay and are working as casual labourers. They have indicated their willingness to relocate to Ohangwena region once the project is initiated.
•  The project would like to venture into egg production to supply the local markets.
•  So far, the project has solicited about N$ 1500 from fundraising events and monthly contribution   N$ 10 per month for each member started January 2012.
•  There is no project proposal /business plan in place to give the Ministry a clear picture of their business ideas.

  Recommedations

•  Such noble ideas need to be supported in order to alleviate poverty and reduce high unemployment rate in our country. Therefore,  
•  The Ministry of Agriculture, DEES, Omaruru will coordinate with project members to write up a project proposal for possible funding. e.g Tiipeg
• DEES Omaruru, to consult , DEES Ohangwena   about the intended project in their region
• Project members to be taken on exposure trips  to other viable poultry project   in the region or elsewhere. External financial assistance to be sourced. 
• Training of project members  on poultry& project  management  

 Support from outside (any form) will be highly appreciated...!!!