Excessive rainfall impacts Musese maize production

Winni Metzger, the scheme's private operator, noted that heavy rains at the start of the season damaged young maize plants and led to increased weed growth, which competed with the crops for nutrients. Six hundred hectares were planted with maize last October, with harvesting commencing last month. The Musese Green Scheme, established in 1977, is one of Namibia's oldest irrigation projects.

In addition to maize, Metzger has diversified into animal feed and cooking oil production. The scheme includes 15 maize fields managed by the private operator and 10 plots allocated to small-scale farmers. Metzger advocates for private management as the most effective model for green schemes, believing it fosters a greater sense of ownership and commitment compared to government-employed managers.