Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SUCCESSFUL HANDOVER OF GOATS AND ENERGY-EFFICIENT STOVES UNDER THE IREMA KUNENE PROJECT

Khorixas, Kunene Region, Namibia - February 29, 2024 - The Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia (EIF), Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform (MAWLR) and the Office of the Regional Governor of Kunene are pleased to announce the successful handover of 750 goats and 300 energy-efficient stoves under the IREMA Kunene Project, funded by the Green Climate Fund. This milestone event took place at the Khorixas Auction Kraal on Thursday, February 29, 2024.

Bernadette Shivute-Shalumbu, Manager of Programming and Programmes at EIF, emphasized the significance of the IREMA project in responding to recurrent droughts in the Kunene region. The project focuses on alternative farming practices, particularly the introduction of Boer goats as a resilient alternative to cattle farming. Additionally, the project addresses deforestation through the distribution of energy-efficient stoves that require less wood, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Honourable Marius Sheya, Governor of the Kunene Region, delivered a keynote address highlighting the importance of climate adaptation measures for rural communities. The distribution of 750 goats and 300 energy-efficient stoves aims to enhance food and nutrition security, especially for vulnerable farmers impacted by prolonged drought.

The EIF expressed gratitude to the political leadership of the region, including the Hon. Governor and Hon. Councillors, for their continuous support. The collaboration between the Environmental Investment Fund, Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, and Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism was acknowledged as pivotal in achieving regional and national climate resilience objectives.

Governor Marius Sheya commended the unity of stakeholders and the commitment of the government in implementing sustainable farming strategies. He highlighted the consultative approach in beneficiary selection, fostering a sense of ownership and regional development leadership.

The handover included 750 goats and 300 energy-efficient stoves, representing a vital step towards enhancing the livelihoods of local communities. The recipients were chosen through a consultative process involving Constituency Committees and the traditional authority, ensuring local ownership, and strengthening community development.

The EIF, MAWLR and Kunene Regional Governor’s office urged beneficiaries to use the handed-over items responsibly. The EIF emphasized reinvesting in their communities, fostering prosperity, and contributing to the country's path of development.

The successful handover signifies a collaborative effort to combat climate challenges, support vulnerable farmers, and promote sustainable practices in the Kunene region. The EIF, MAWLR and Kunene Regional Governor’s office remain committed to furthering these initiatives for the well-being of Namibian communities.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Contact Person:
Lot Ndamanomhata
Manager Corporate Communications
Environmental Investment Fund of
Namibia (EIF)
Tel: +264 811601846/+264614317706
Email: lndamanomhata@eif.org.na

About EIF

The Environmental Investment Fund stands as Namibia's robust response to the pressing global demand for green financing, sculpted by the impactful Environmental Investment Fund Act, Act 13 of 2001. Pioneering sustainable development, it has swiftly emerged as one of Africa's premier green and climate financing institutions. Envisioning itself as a trailblazer, the EIF strives to be a recognized leader in innovative financing mechanisms, committed to inclusive development for all Namibians. As a national entity and environmental fund, the EIF fervently invests in projects safeguarding Namibia's natural resources, harmonizing environmental preservation with sustainable economic development.

A distinguished player on the global stage, EIF holds the distinction of being among the 24 entities worldwide dedicated to this cause. Furthermore, it proudly earned the accolade of being the first in Southern Africa to access climate finance directly from the prestigious Green Climate Fund ("GCF"). The EIF's resounding success is reflected in its global fundraising triumph of over N$ 3.6 billion, channelling a substantial N$ 2.3 billion into diverse climate - related projects within Namibia. For a deeper insight, visit www.eif.org.na.

About IREMA

The Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia (EIF), in conjunction with the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform (MAWLR), is implementing a Green Climate Fund (GCF) financed project titled: “Improving Rangeland and Ecosystem Management Practices of Smallholder Farmers under Conditions of Climate Change in Sesfontein, Fransfontein, and Warmquelle Areas in Kunene Region (IREMA). Its broad aim is to reduce the vulnerability of smallholder farmers under climate change conditions by safeguarding natural capital that generate ecosystem services to sustain agricultural production systems.
More specifically, the IREMA Project is expected to:
(1) Promote investments in integrated drought early warning systems and improve the existing
ones;
(2) Strengthen and improve the capacity of key stakeholders in drought risks management at
regional, national and local levels; and
(3) Support communities to undertake innovative adaptation actions that reinforce their
resilience to drought.