GIZ helps expand Nust research capacity

Monque Adams
STAFF REPORTER



The Namibia University of Science and Technology inaugurated a new laboratory for research into bush biomass utilisation on 27 November.

At the same event, the Bush Control and Biomass Utilisation Project implemented by GIZ and the ministry of environment, forestry and tourism handed over laboratory equipment valued at N$1.3 million.

The equipment included a Kjeldahl nitrogen analyser for the determination of the nitrogen and protein content in bush samples, a laboratory furnace for preparation of samples, a universal testing machine and a plastics identification unit for applied research on wood-plastic composites.

The laboratory equipment will allow Nust to provide more in-depth research and training for students, and to offer physical and chemical biomass analysis services to the public and the Namibian biomass industry.

The ceremony was addressed by Gerlinde Sauer, counsellor for development cooperation at the German embassy, and Dr Andre Niikondo, Nust acting vice-chancellor.

Until now, the University of Namibia and the laboratory of the ministry of agriculture, water and land reform were the only ones able to conduct biomass analysis.