Ogongo breaks ground with Namibia’s first solar-farming system
Shining bright
Namibia has entered a new era in sustainable development with the official unveiling of the country’s first large-scale Agri-Photovoltaic (Agri-PV) system at the University of Namibia’s (UNAM) Ogongo Campus in the Omusati Region.
The pioneering system combines agriculture and renewable energy production by installing solar panels above farmland, creating a dual-use model that addresses two of Namibia’s most pressing challenges: food security and access to affordable energy.
The installation spans 1.7 hectares – equivalent to around two and a half soccer fields – and features 686 solar panels. It is projected to generate more than 2 000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per day and approximately 800 megawatt-hours annually, enough to power 225 households. At the same time, the panels create a more balanced microclimate for crops, reducing heat stress, conserving water, and improving soil health.
“This is not just a celebration of agricultural innovation but a testament to our commitment to the prosperity of our region and our country,” said Immanuel Shikongo, Governor of the Omusati Region, who hailed the project as a milestone for both regional and national development.
For UNAM, the project marks a significant step in aligning research with national priorities.
“This is science in service of the people. It is innovation that responds to climate change and creates pathways to food security and clean energy,” said Dr Joseph Ndinoshiho, UNAM Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor.
Currently, tomato and potato crops are being tested under the panels, with sweet potato and cowpea trials planned. Beyond research, the system will meet the full energy needs of the Ogongo Campus, which is home to more than 500 students.
National significance
Namibia faces formidable challenges: only 25% of rural populations have access to electricity, while post-harvest losses are estimated at 35% – the highest in the SADC region. In addition, 60% of the country’s food is imported, leaving communities vulnerable to global shocks.
Agri-PV technology offers an integrated solution. Electricity generated can be used for irrigation, cooling, and processing, while the shade structures protect crops and boost yields.
“Agri-PV is a game-changer. It can promote food security, improve productivity, and generate employment in rural areas,” added Ulrike Metzger, Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy in Namibia.
The Ogongo initiative is being implemented under the Global Fund for the Promotion of Innovation in Agriculture (i4Ag), in collaboration with the GIZ Farming for Resilience Project, Namibia’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, and international research partners.
With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, Namibia is ideally placed to expand this model nationwide. The Ogongo pilot not only provides food and energy but also demonstrates how the country’s natural resources can be harnessed for sustainable development.
The pioneering system combines agriculture and renewable energy production by installing solar panels above farmland, creating a dual-use model that addresses two of Namibia’s most pressing challenges: food security and access to affordable energy.
The installation spans 1.7 hectares – equivalent to around two and a half soccer fields – and features 686 solar panels. It is projected to generate more than 2 000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per day and approximately 800 megawatt-hours annually, enough to power 225 households. At the same time, the panels create a more balanced microclimate for crops, reducing heat stress, conserving water, and improving soil health.
“This is not just a celebration of agricultural innovation but a testament to our commitment to the prosperity of our region and our country,” said Immanuel Shikongo, Governor of the Omusati Region, who hailed the project as a milestone for both regional and national development.
For UNAM, the project marks a significant step in aligning research with national priorities.
“This is science in service of the people. It is innovation that responds to climate change and creates pathways to food security and clean energy,” said Dr Joseph Ndinoshiho, UNAM Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor.
Currently, tomato and potato crops are being tested under the panels, with sweet potato and cowpea trials planned. Beyond research, the system will meet the full energy needs of the Ogongo Campus, which is home to more than 500 students.
National significance
Namibia faces formidable challenges: only 25% of rural populations have access to electricity, while post-harvest losses are estimated at 35% – the highest in the SADC region. In addition, 60% of the country’s food is imported, leaving communities vulnerable to global shocks.
Agri-PV technology offers an integrated solution. Electricity generated can be used for irrigation, cooling, and processing, while the shade structures protect crops and boost yields.
“Agri-PV is a game-changer. It can promote food security, improve productivity, and generate employment in rural areas,” added Ulrike Metzger, Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy in Namibia.
The Ogongo initiative is being implemented under the Global Fund for the Promotion of Innovation in Agriculture (i4Ag), in collaboration with the GIZ Farming for Resilience Project, Namibia’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, and international research partners.
With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, Namibia is ideally placed to expand this model nationwide. The Ogongo pilot not only provides food and energy but also demonstrates how the country’s natural resources can be harnessed for sustainable development.
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