N$2 million to fight hunger, malnutrition
The Capricorn Foundation has strengthened its resolve to tackle hunger and malnutrition in Namibia with a N$2 million commitment supporting two major initiatives: the Gondwana MealforTwo Programme and Genesis Namibia’s malnutrition intervention in the Omaheke Region.As the nation faces a growing food crisis compounded by prolonged drought, economic downturn, rising unemployment, and escalating food prices, the foundation has stepped up its efforts. According to the UN World Food Programme, nearly 48% of Namibia's population now requires urgent food assistance.
“We are proud of our partnership with Genesis Namibia and Gondwana MealforTwo and believe that our efforts will collectively contribute to the government’s call to fight poverty in Namibia,” said Marlize Horn of the Capricorn Foundation.
The foundation has pledged N$600 000 to support the Gondwana Care Trust’s MealforTwo Programme, which will deliver 400 000 meals to 30 charitable organisations nationwide, reaching close to 8 000 vulnerable individuals, including children in orphanages, kindergartens, school hostels, and elderly residents in nursing homes.
Quintin Hartung of Gondwana praised the long-standing partnership: “The Capricorn Foundation and Bank Windhoek have walked this journey with us since 2017. Together, we’ve served over 1.6 million meals, established sustainable gardens, and empowered communities beyond immediate food aid.”
Genesis expansion
In addition to its support for MealforTwo, the Capricorn Foundation has committed N$1.4 million to expand its work with Genesis Namibia, targeting child malnutrition in the Omaheke Region. The foundation previously funded a successful six-month pilot project, launched in November 2024 with an initial investment of N$565 500, which exceeded expectations by feeding over 700 children and adults and distributing 67 000 meals across eight soup kitchens.
Following the pilot’s success, an additional N$849 540 will now enable Genesis Namibia to feed 1 000 malnourished children across Gobabis, Otjinene, Drimiopsis, Witvlei, Donkerbos, and Epukiro.
“Genesis Namibia is grateful to the Capricorn Foundation for their unwavering commitment to feeding the children of Namibia,” said Riaan van Zyl of Genesis Namibia. “Together, we are not just delivering meals - we are delivering hope.”
The meals, fortified with 13 vitamins, 5 minerals, 19 amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and 5 electrolytes, are specifically designed to nourish the body and support recovery. The programme also includes a digital health tracking system that monitors each child’s progress, ensuring personalised care and impact measurement.
Veripura Muukua of the Capricorn Foundation confirmed that following a recent site visit to Gobabis soup kitchens, the foundation plans to work with Genesis Namibia and local stakeholders to explore long-term, sustainable interventions tailored to the region’s unique needs.
“The Capricorn Foundation remains committed to engaging with government, partners, and communities to better understand the challenges and focus our efforts where they are most needed,” Muukua said.