Agribank, through its Agri Advisory Services, engaged stakeholders in Otjiwarongo to ensure collaboration in the planning and facilitation of regional farmers’ events as well as sharing of expertise and resources for capacity building purposes.
The event was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, the Namibia Agricultural Union’s Otjiwarongo Farmers Association, the Namibia Charcoal Association, Feedmaster, Meatco, the Namibian Police Force, Agribank’s Otjiwarongo branch staff, Mentor for the Otjozondjupa areas and farmers.
Some of the challenges brought forward by the participants included the absence of preparation for veld fires, human wildlife conflict and stock theft.
Koos Briedenhann of farm Buffelhoek emphasized the importance of preparing your veld on an annual basis to participants, to help curb veld fires.
Inspector Geiseb, Acting Sub-Divisional Head of the Stock Theft Investigation for the Otjozondjupa region, shared statistics about stock theft, which are on the rise and shared some useful preventative tips to farmers.
Michael Degé from the Namibia Charcoal Association highlighted the causes of veld fires, which include negligence, arson, crime syndicates and absence of farm management.
Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Senior Forester, Mr. Nakangombe included amongst others illegal timber harvesting, non-compliance with Forestry rules and regulations, over-harvesting, clearing of large tracts of land for small scale farmers and uncontrolled fires.
A regular attendee of the Agribank events held in Otjozondjupa and Kunene regions, Gerhardus Seibeb said the event had provided exposure, with diversified farming options presented having opened his eyes to adaptive ways of farming in drought-stricken areas.
Chairperson of the Otjozondjupa Regional Council, Marlayn Mbakera who was guest of honor, applauded Agribank for its comprehensive loan portfolio especially the addition of the Women & Youth Loan Scheme.
She however also raised concern about the high stock theft cases faced by farmers in Otjozondjupa and asked that affordable insurance options for farmers be developed.
