On October 1, 2025, at Xain Quaz Camp in the Omaheke Region, Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, addressed an important engagement meeting with commercial farmers, underscoring the crucial role of agriculture in Namibia’s development agenda. The President expressed her sincere appreciation for the opportunity to dialogue with key stakeholders about national food security and the advancement of the agricultural sector a sector that sustains livelihoods and significantly contributes 4.6 percent to the country’s GDP.
In her address, President Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized agriculture as a foundational pillar of civilization, undeviating from historical precedent where societies have thrived by cultivating the land. She highlighted the significance of “Landbou” the Afrikaans term for agriculture, meaning “building the land” as a vivid metaphor for Namibia’s commitment to nurturing economic stability and prosperity through agricultural development.
The President detailed the Eighth Administration’s strategic prioritization of agriculture within the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP 6), with ambitious goals to elevate livestock and crop value chains to collectively contribute at least 8 percent to GDP and 80 percent to the national food basket by 2030. She lauded Omaheke as a pivotal cattle farming hub driving the local economy and enhancing Namibia’s international trade presence.
Namibia’s reputation as a leading global beef exporter was celebrated, particularly due to the natural cattle feeding practices that guarantee premium quality. Markets such as the United States, European Union, and China recognize this quality, contributing vital foreign reserves and export earnings to the nation.
Acknowledging challenges faced by farmers including cattle diseases, drought, water scarcity, cattle theft, and limited market access the President reaffirmed government interventions. These include fodder allocations during droughts, support for borehole drilling to alleviate water stress, and ongoing bilateral dialogues to expand access to international beef markets. She also announced government plans to establish regional industries aligned with local strengths to boost value addition, combat food waste, and contribute to the national food supply. The establishment of feedlots is also underway to improve beef nutrition and quality.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah called on commercial farmers to actively contribute by diversifying production and supporting domestic value addition efforts, which are instrumental in job creation and ensuring affordable local beef supplies. She stressed the importance of public-private collaboration to achieve food security and economic growth.
In a concluding appeal, the President reminded the audience of the devastating wildfires affecting Etosha Park and neighboring northern regions, urging caution and collective action to prevent and manage such environmental threats.
“Agriculture is not only about farming, it is about Landbou, about building the land. If we build the land together, with resilience and unity, we will build a stronger Namibia for generations to come,” President Nandi-Ndaitwah stated, ending with a call for fruitful engagement on these matters critical to Namibia’s sustainable development and unity.
