Justicia Shipena
The Etunda Feedlot, set for completion by September 2026, will have the capacity to hold up to 1,000 cattle and aims to strengthen the communal livestock sector in the Northern Communal Areas (NCAs).
The N$78.9 million facility is being built within the Etunda Irrigation Scheme near Ruacana and forms part of the broader N$400 million Livestock Support Programme jointly funded by the Namibian government and the European Union.
The project was launched on Thursday during a groundbreaking ceremony attended by government officials, EU representatives, regional governors, traditional leaders, and farmers from across the Omusati region.
Agriculture minister Inge Zaamwani said the feedlot will contribute to poverty reduction,food security, and climate-resilient farming.
“Once this facility is operational, farmers will no longer produce just for local consumption but will contribute to export-quality beef, helping grow Namibia’s economy,” she said.
The feedlot is one of seven infrastructure projects under construction. Others include abattoir upgrades, quarantine stations, auction pens, and artificial insemination centres.
The National Planning Commission (NPC) is managing the implementation through technical handovers.
NPC director general Kaire Mbuende said the feedlot supports the goals of the sixth National Development Plan (NDP6).
“It will enhance the agricultural value chain and improve livestock quality, allowing farmers to command better market prices,” he said.
EU Chargé d’Affaires Ian Dupont said the initiative reflects a long-standing partnership between the EU and Namibia.
“This project demonstrates how development cooperation can result in sustainable growth and real empowerment for farmers in the NCAs,” he said.
He noted the EU’s support also covers transport logistics, fodder production, traceability systems, and farmer training.
Speaking on behalf of the Namibia National Farmers Union, Sylvanus Naunyango welcomed the project and called on the ministry of agriculture to fast-track the equalisation fund for communal areas.
“This feedlot is more than just infrastructure. It is a centre of knowledge, empowerment, and economic inclusion,” he said.
The facility is expected to act as a key off-take point, improve market readiness, and link communal farmers to local and international beef value chains, including premium export markets in the EU, China, and the United States.
The project also aims to reduce transport costs, improve cattle quality, and maintain strong animal health standards through commodity-based trade and traceability systems.
