On a significant occasion in the Omaheke Region, Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, addressed commercial farmers emphasizing the critical role of agriculture in national development and food security. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage directly with farmers, underscoring the agricultural sector as a vital pillar of Namibia’s economy, contributing about 4.6 percent to the GDP.
The President highlighted the sector’s potential as a “low-hanging fruit” for economic growth, particularly in light of declining commodity prices in mining. Drawing on historical precedents, she reminded attendees that great civilizations prospered through agriculture, framing farming as foundational to economic stability, innovation, and progress. She articulated a vision from the Eighth Administration and the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP 6) to boost livestock and crop value chains to collectively contribute at least 8 percent of GDP and 80 percent to the national food basket by 2030.
Focusing on the strategic importance of the Omaheke Region, known for its cattle farming, the President noted Namibia’s international reputation as a leading beef exporter, thanks to natural cattle feeding practices. This quality has opened lucrative markets in the USA, EU, and China, generating foreign exchange and economic benefits.
Acknowledging farmer challenges such as cattle diseases, drought, water shortages, cattle theft, and market access, President Nandi-Ndaitwah reassured that the government is addressing these through fodder provisions during droughts, borehole drilling, and bilateral trade talks to expand export markets. The government plans to establish regionally-based industries to add value to agricultural products, reduce waste, and increase the domestic food supply. Feedlots are also planned to improve beef nutrition and quality.
The President urged commercial farmers to diversify production and foster local value addition to create jobs and ensure affordable beef. She welcomed continued collaboration between the government and private sector to grow the agricultural sector and advance national development.
In closing, she called for vigilance and cooperation in combating ongoing wildfires in Etosha Park and neighboring areas, stressing that agriculture is about “building the land” together with resilience to secure Namibia’s future generations. She expressed optimism for fruitful discussions during the engagement, underscoring the importance of the farmers’ insights in shaping a stronger agricultural sector.
