Windhoek Hosts Food System Journey Workshop to Build Resilience

Windhoek Hosts Food System Journey Workshop to Build Resilience. The City of Windhoek today advanced its commitment to building a more resilient urban future by hosting the City Food System Journey Assessment Workshop, a high‑level strategic engagement facilitated by Sara Nakalila of ICLEI Africa (Local Governments for Sustainability).

Acknowledging that the city’s food landscape remains uncoordinated, the workshop convened a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from NUST, UNAM, NAMAFA, NASFAN, NAFSA, and Juvenile Tycoon Food System. Together, they worked to map out a more integrated approach to food systems planning.

The event was officially opened by Zurilea Steenkamp, Strategic Executive for Economic Development & Community Services, who emphasized the role of the Social and Youth Development Division in promoting community well‑being and empowering vulnerable groups. Steenkamp noted that the session was not only about dialogue but also about assessing consumption patterns to ensure all residents have access to affordable, nutritious food while strengthening resilience against climate change and rapid population growth.

Throughout the day, participants examined the complexities of food movement from production to consumption, identifying gaps in urban agriculture, food safety, infrastructure, and waste management. James Kalundu, Manager of Social and Youth Development, described the workshop as a vital starting point for building a shared understanding of Windhoek’s food journey.

By exploring economic opportunities and aligning with existing policy mandates, the group sought to move beyond fragmented efforts toward a structured, inclusive, and sustainable roadmap. The collaborative data and ideas generated will inform the development of a coordinated urban food system that prioritizes food security and safety for all residents.

This landmark initiative marks the beginning of a practical shift toward a food‑secure Windhoek, reinforcing the city’s vision of resilience and inclusivity.