In a significant philanthropic gesture, the University of Namibia (UNAM) has received a generous donation of mushroom cultivation equipment valued at about N$1 million. This notable contribution is set to empower the Zero Emission Research Initiative (ZERI) unit with the capabilities needed to enhance the production of mushrooms on a larger scale.
The equipment was officially presented to the University on 09 October 2023, at the ZERI Mushroom House at Main Campus. The benefactors behind this remarkable donation are Ms Li Hong, the Director of Jiansu Provincial Construction Group Namibia, and her husband, Professor Du Peng.
Ms Li Hong is a cherished partner whose commitment to UNAM dates back to 2018, when she embarked on an extensive journey across various UNAM campuses, seeking the ideal location to establish and support this initiative. Prof Du Peng has also contributed significantly by providing the essential cultures used for mushroom cultivation at ZERI during the handover event.
Now, in collaboration, they have bestowed upon UNAM a full range of mushroom production line ranging from laboratory equipment such as tissue culture preparation equipment, sterilisation equipment, substrate crushing, and bag filling equipment that will enhance the value chain of mushroom production.
During the official handover ceremony, Professor Davis Mumbengegwi, Acting Director of the Centre for Research Services, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the generous donors. He emphasised the significance of such partnerships between the University and corporate entities, stating that a lot can emanate from such collaborations.
“We are eagerly looking forward to seeing such efforts transitioning from mere research activities to resourceful ventures that result in the production of valuable goods that can benefit Namibian communities but also generate much-needed revenue to sustain the University and fuel our economic development plans,” said Prof Davis.
Ms Li expressed her joy at the prospect of boosting the mushroom industry at UNAM and in Namibia as a whole. She stated: “I am honoured to be part of this transformative initiative, which has the potential of fostering growth and innovation within the agricultural sector.”
According to Dr Lydia Horn, the Coordinator at ZERI, this donation came at the right time when they are much-needed and they did not have equipment of that nature yet. She said: “This donation will not only benefit UNAM but the entire country as ZERI conducts various community training projects each year that target all interested parties from business communities to small-scale farmers and private individuals who need training at ZERI premises.”Top of Form
