Cooperation with desertfoods Namibia
In a previous article, we have pointed out the challenges and opportunities of aquaponic food production systems in Namibia and other (semi-) arid regions around the world. We are proud to announce to be a partner of the desertfoods aquaponics project in Namibia that we will tackle together with desertfoods Namibia PTY, Göteborgs Universitet, Wageningen University, University of Namibia, and IGZ.
A 12.000 m² climate-controlled greenhouse will be build in the Namib Desert East of Swakopmund next year. It will be expanded by another 32.000 m² after 3 years. This will be a great step towards increasing the food security of Namibia as well as the practical implementation of decoupled multi-loop aquaponic systems. The start of production expected to take place mid of 2018 with an annual output exceeding 543 metric tons of vegetables (tomatoes, sweet peppers, lettuce) and 63 metric tons of tilapia fish.
- desertfoods aims to tackle part of today’s food security challenges by running unparalleled climate-smart and high-tech aquaponic farms, without losing sight on the responsibility for future generations by using natural resources wisely.
- The in-house designed farming facility smartly combines the most advanced sub-elements of hydroponics and aquaculture technologies.
- desertfoods‘ farming approach can be defined as a decoupled multi-loop aquaponic system. In this system, nutrients and water are recycled to the highest degrees, while ensuring both optimal and stable growth conditions for both fish and crops.
More technical information about this project can be found in the explanatory video below.
We currently struggle with funding to estsblish an aquaphonics plant. We have a 100 hectares south of Rehoboth next to the B1 highway with access to electricity and a strong underground water resource. Very much interested in a joint venture.
Would like to see more
That is an impressive layout and size.
I have 1000sqm in Kenya that I am considering to establish fully climate controlled aquaponic greenhouses. Is this too small for economic viability? what do you think of vertical linear setups? With very limited space, I am thinking of setup designs that can maximize productivity.
This is really interesting–what ever happened with it? Has the project been built yet? How is it going!