Justicia
The government is engaging in bilateral discussions to secure and expand access to international beef markets, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah told farmers in the Omaheke Region this week.
She said the efforts aim to help commercial farmers increase earnings from cattle farming while improving living standards for Namibians.
“The government is deeply aware of the various challenges faced by the farmers. These challenges include diseases affecting cattle, the devastating impact of drought on livestock survival, persistent water scarcity, the scourge of cattle theft, and the ongoing need for improved market access,” she said.
Nandi-Ndaitwah reassured farmers about the measures already in place to support the sector.
“We have implemented various measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as allocating fodder feedings to affected farmers during periods of drought. The government continues to support the drilling of boreholes to address water scarcity affecting both livestock and human needs.”
She said the government also intends to establish industries in all 14 regions, depending on their strengths, to enhance value addition, reduce food waste, and contribute to the country’s food basket.
She said plans are also in motion to establish feedlots to improve the nutritional value of beef and enhance meat quality.
In August, the government and the European Union (EU) officially launched the Etunda Feedlot, valued at approximately N$78.9 million.
The agricultural development, located at the Etunda Irrigation Scheme near Ruacana in the Omusati Region, aimed to boost productivity, increase market access, and improve income for farmers in the Northern Communal Areas (NCAs).
The feedlot accommodated up to 1 000 cattle and formed part of a wider EU-funded livestock development programme, valued at N$400 million.
Nandi-Ndaitwah stressed that farmers have a role to play.
“As commercial farmers, you also have a role to play in ensuring the diversification of production and expansion of domestic value addition. This, in return, will contribute to job creation and an affordable local beef supply.”
She praised Namibian farmers for their contribution to development.
“I want to assure you that the government welcomes collaboration with the private sector, including commercial farmers, on developing strategies to feed the Namibian nation while growing the economy. To this end, I wish to express my appreciation to all our Namibian farmers who continue to hold hands and work together to support our national development agenda.”
Nandi-Ndaitwah also used the platform to highlight Namibia’s strong beef export reputation.
She added that the Omaheke Region is central to Namibia’s agricultural ambitions, serving as a hub for cattle farming and a driver of both local and international trade.
