The University of Namibia will transform its Zambezi region food-processing facility into a 20-million-dollar commercial mango plant, with the government covering 80 percent of costs. The expansion aims to reduce post-harvest waste, provide sustainable income for area growers, and generate employment opportunities.
Simon Namesho, university spokesman, said the institution will supply technical support for product development, quality standards, testing and marketing alongside annual funding commitments. The Centre for Innovation and Development operates facilities at both Katima Mulilo and Neudamm campuses, producing mango juice, dried strips and jam from locally sourced fruit.
The upgraded plant will process 100 liters of juice hourly and eventually target domestic and international buyers. Local agriculture specialist Castrow Muunda praised the project for cutting spoilage rates and encouraging farmers to expand production capacity.
Community activist Dobson Kwala raised concerns about regional mango supply limitations, suggesting the facility may depend heavily on Zambian imports.
Simon Namesho, university spokesman, said the institution will supply technical support for product development, quality standards, testing and marketing alongside annual funding commitments. The Centre for Innovation and Development operates facilities at both Katima Mulilo and Neudamm campuses, producing mango juice, dried strips and jam from locally sourced fruit.
The upgraded plant will process 100 liters of juice hourly and eventually target domestic and international buyers. Local agriculture specialist Castrow Muunda praised the project for cutting spoilage rates and encouraging farmers to expand production capacity.
Community activist Dobson Kwala raised concerns about regional mango supply limitations, suggesting the facility may depend heavily on Zambian imports.
