Kalimbeza project harvests 70 tonnes of rice

The Kalimbeza Rice Project has managed to harvest 70 tonnes of the raw short-term rice variety that was planted in October last year. This follows years of no rice production at the only state-run green scheme project in the Zambezi region.

Kalimbeza Rice Project manager Patrick Kompeli says even though there is a total of 229 hectares of land for the project, only 150 hectares is irrigable, while 79 hectares is a non-productive area.

Out of the 150 hectares of irrigable land, only 37 hectares were planted last October due to defects on the farm, limited funding and a lack of proper machinery and functional farm equipment for rice cultivation.

He adds that the 70 tonnes of rice cannot immediately find its way to the market because one component of the colour sorter processing machinery at the farm is broken.

Kompeli says the 30 hectares planted last year yielded a harvest of 70 tonnes of the Irga short-term rice variety, while the remaining 7 hectares are expected to be harvested in April or May because it is a long-term Supa variety rice type that takes six or more months to mature.

“The government bought some of the essential equipment, provided fertiliser, diesel and salaries for casual workers. The government wants to produce more rice and stop the import of rice; however, only 60% of the rice produced can reach the market, while the remaining 40% are by-products such as rice bran, husks and broken rice,” he says.

Additionally, according to Kompeli, because the processing colour sorter is broken, rice is stored in the production shed, where it can mature depending on the storage facility.

“If it is a secure environment where the temperature is controlled, rice can stay for 10 or more years,” he notes.

Meanwhile, Kompeli emphasises that the N$8 million the government availed last year was specifically meant for a consultancy that was recently appointed and will be utilised for a feasibility study. This study will include topography, field levelling, drainage systems, access roads and the upgrading of the pump stations.

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.

The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.