Kapande Foundation equips communities with practical skills

The Kapande Foundation is making a difference in rural communities across Kavango East by helping young people and vulnerable families acquire practical skills in agriculture and entrepreneurship.

Through its work in horticulture, poultry farming, small-stock farming, freshwater aquaculture and beekeeping, the organisation is creating opportunities for people to become self-sufficent and improve their livelihoods.

Spearheaded by Patrick Kafuka and partners, the foundation was established in response to the growing challenges of unemployment and poverty in rural areas.

”We saw the need to equip people with practical skills that can help them feed their families, generate income, and contribute meaningfully to society," Kafuka said.

"We believe sustainable development begins when communities are empowered to produce for themselves."

He said what sets the foundation apart is its focus on long-term support. Along with training and certificates, graduates also receive starter packs and short-term loans to help them start their own projects.

“Our aim is long-term transformation and sustainability, not temporary assistance,” he explained.

Real-world impact

The organisation currently operates 12 projects across five villages and has reached more than 185 households through its outreach programmes.

In addition to agricultural training, the foundation also runs youth, women’s and children’s clubs, as well as sports programmes aimed at uplifting communities and encouraging positive development among young people.

Participants are selected from local communities, particularly individuals who show commitment and passion.

Once selected, they receive practical training and access to important resources such as tools, garden spaces, poultry facilities, fish ponds, and bee farming equipment.

Kafuka underlined that beyond training, accountability is also vital.

The programme is already making an impact in the region, with families supplying fresh vegetables and other products to nearby lodges, creating income opportunities through their own production.

“We are proud to see families generating income from their own production,” Kafuka said.