Rundu — President Hifikepunye Pohamba will officially open the multi-million dollar National Fresh Produce Hub in Rundu today - a milestone which underscores government's commitment to achieving self-sufficiency in food production.

Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry constructed the N$110 million fresh produce centre where producers can market their produce as the design and fittings of the hub make provision for grading, branding, haulage, transportation and sorting activities. The facility will serve as a cold storage for fresh produce such as horticultural produce, fish, fresh meat, and dairy and meat products. Increased business opportunities through value addition are envisaged once the facility is fully operational.

The fresh produce hub was built by China Jiangxi International in the space of only 23 months.

The 6 400-square metre marketing hall consists of a laboratory, restrooms, offices, freezer rooms, a coffee bar and a washing area.

The freezer rooms in which the perishable produce will be stored is about 300 square metres in size. One of the factors that prompted the establishment of the fresh produce hubs in the country are the various green scheme projects of the government in the northern regions which are adjacent to perennial rivers.

The president will be in Ongwediva on Monday to inaugurate the National Fresh Produce Hub there. All fresh produce hubs will be managed by the Namibian Agricultural Marketing and Trade Agency.