2 minute read
Brothers in the farming business
In the arid southern region of Namibia, two brothers, Andre and Willem Kandjella, have transformed a modest communal stock farm into a thriving business venture. The siblings’ remarkable success story began when they secured a loan from Agribank about four years ago, enabling them to purchase land and invest in livestock. Their engagement in Agribank’s mentorship programme further fuelled their ambition and knowledge, setting them on a path toward agricultural entrepreneurship.
Born and raised with a deep-rooted passion for farming, the Kandjella brothers saw potential where others saw challenge. Their farm, located 60 kilometres from Keetmanshoop, serves as a beacon of innovation and perseverance in a region known for its harsh conditions.
Andre, 27, underscores the importance of viewing farming as a serious business venture. He advocates for a proactive approach, encouraging aspiring farmers to leverage opportunities provided by institutions like Agribank, which offers specialised loans and mentorship to empower and support emerging farmers.
“Farming is a business,” Andre emphasises, urging individuals to pursue their agricultural ideas with determination. The brothers aim to expand their operations and establish a competitive brand in the agribusiness sector, illustrating the viability of farming as a sustainable livelihood, especially for the youth.
With their eyes set on future expansion after completing their mentorship programme, the Kandjella brothers’ journey from a small communal farm to a burgeoning agribusiness highlights the transformative power of ambition, education and financial support in one of Namibia’s toughest landscapes.
Watch the original story here: https://youtu.be/XUjTTMzbz4M?si=gdh7t0L7p5F_oRwj
