INTRODUCTION

At Omeva Consulting, we worked with the University of Namibia, in collaboration with the African Wild Dog Conservancy to launch this transformative initiative over four years ago. This initiative aims to address the pressing issue of bush encroachment in the Otjozondjupa region of Namibia.

Bush encroachment, characterized by the spread of woody plants over grasslands, poses significant challenges for the Ovaherero community and other smallholder farmers who rely on these grasslands for their livelihoods.

The project seeks to uplift rural communities by exploring sustainable innovations that transform encroacher bushes into valuable resources. Specifically, the initiative investigates the potential economic and environmental value chains through which these bushes can be utilized by smallholder farmers.

Research activities focus on identifying marketable products and by-products derived from different plant fractions of encroacher bushes, assessing their economic viability, and providing actionable insights to promote their use.

This project emphasizes capacity building and knowledge transfer. It aims to empower both men and women in rural Namibia, as well as TVET students, by equipping them with the skills needed to adapt to climate-resilient agricultural practices.

Furthermore, the initiative includes the training of undergraduate and postgraduate students, fostering a new generation of experts dedicated to sustainable development in Namibia.