Proudly Namibian

Namibia's indigenous crops have the potential to strengthen food security, support local farmers and create new economic opportunities. That belief drives Elizabeth Kambode, founder of LizWise, a Namibian food business focused on developing products made from indigenous grains such as mahangu. Kambode, an environmental consultant and food innovator, says her work combines food systems, sustainability and indigenous knowledge. "The seed for LizWise was planted from a desire to create something unique, nutritious and rooted in Namibia," she says. She was particularly inspired by the potential of mahangu, also known as pearl millet, a grain that has long played an important role in local diets but remains underrepresented in many modern food products. According to Elizabeth, LizWise was established to develop convenient food products while promoting indigenous agriculture and supporting local food systems. "The aim is to strengthen food security, promote indigenous agriculture and build a sustainable value chain that benefits both consumers and local farmers," she says. The company's product range centres on mahangu-based foods and includes pasta, crackers, rusks, instant porridge and bread. "We started with mahangu pasta because it represents both innovation and identity," Elizabeth explains. "It takes a familiar global food and reimagines it through a local grain." The product range later expanded to include additional foods aimed at making indigenous grains more accessible in everyday diets. Production is currently carried out through a combination of handcrafted and semi-scaled processes. Elizabeth says this approach allows the business to maintain quality while gradually increasing capacity. LizWise employs a core team of four people involved in production and operations and works closely with local farmers who supply raw materials. These partnerships form part of what Elizabeth describes as a community-based value chain that supports rural livelihoods while creating market opportunities for indigenous crops. The business promotes its products through social media platforms, including LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, while exhibitions and trade events provide opportunities to engage directly with consumers and potential buyers. Looking ahead, Elizabeth plans to establish a fully equipped production facility capable of supporting larger-scale manufacturing. She also hopes to expand distribution through national supermarket chains and strengthen export opportunities. "Beyond growth, the deeper goal is to build a sustainable food system that uplifts farmers, creates jobs and elevates indigenous crops onto the global stage," she says. LizWise products are currently available at several outlets, including: Green Market, Klein Windhoek (Saturdays) Zero Waste Store, Klein Windhoek Paragon Duty-Free Shop Oshakati Pharmacy Ondangwa Farmers Market Products can also be purchased directly from the production facility at the Bokamoso Entrepreneurial Centre in Windhoek.

W: www.lizwise.online E: [email protected] W: +264 81 394 6757