Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Afterbreak Magazine
Published on 2024-04-08 17:00:00
Helvi Shindume, a 25-year-old farmer, agri-influencer, and founder of Women in Agriculture Namibia (Wian), has recently been appointed to the Ohangwena Communal Land Board by Minister of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform Calle Schlettwein.
Born and raised in Onhuno, northern Namibia, Shindume completed her high school education at Jan Möhr Secondary School in Windhoek. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in agricultural science and an honors degree in agribusiness from the Namibia University of Science and Technology.
Shindume’s passion for agriculture began in primary school, where it was her highest-scoring subject. She enjoyed cultivating crops in her high school garden and completing agricultural assignments. Colleague Amelia Immanuel describes her as a dedicated, hardworking, and driven individual who is passionate about her work.
Despite facing stereotypes and questioning about her choice to study agriculture as a woman, Shindume remained focused on her goals and proud of the work she does. In an effort to change the narrative around women in agriculture, she established Wian in October 2019. The organization aims to strengthen recognition of women’s contributions to the agricultural sector and empower them to play a more prominent role in agriculture.
Wian provides resources, support, networking opportunities, and capacity development for farmers, both male and female. It has sister organizations in Botswana, South Africa, Gambia, and Angola, with plans to expand beyond the Southern African Development Community region and collaborate with similar organizations in other countries.
Shindume acknowledges the challenges of farming, recognizing the risks and variability in productivity. However, she believes that with determination, success is inevitable. She encourages aspiring women farmers to challenge traditional gender roles and advocate for gender equality and youth empowerment in agriculture.
Shindume’s passion for advocating for women and youth in agriculture stems from her belief in the transformative power of gender equality and youth empowerment. She is driven by a desire to make a difference in the agricultural sector and empower others to overcome obstacles and achieve success.
In conclusion, Helvi Shindume’s dedication to agriculture, gender equality, and youth empowerment is evident in her work as a farmer, agri-influencer, and founder of Women in Agriculture Namibia. Through her efforts, she seeks to empower women to take on leadership roles in agriculture and contribute to the growth and development of the sector.
Read the original article on The Namibian
 is a young farmer, agri-influencer and the founder of Women in Agriculture Namibia (Wian).){kind=link}