The Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, Anna Shiweda, says China is deploying 14 experts to bolster Namibia’s food security and agricultural techniques.
The initiative comes under the second phase of the South-South Cooperation (SSC) project, a collaborative effort between Namibia, China, and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).
According to Shiweda, the second phase, launched in November 2023, will see eleven Chinese experts and three technicians provide technical assistance in various agricultural and fisheries fields.
Their expertise will focus on critical areas like soil management, seed production, plant health, animal husbandry, and vocational training.
“This phase aims to strengthen technical capacities over a two-year period. A total of fourteen cooperants, comprising eleven experts and three technicians from the People’s Republic of China, will provide technical assistance in agriculture and fisheries-related fields under this phase,” Shiweda said.
The SSC project builds upon the success of its first phase, which saw Chinese cooperants contribute significantly to Namibia’s agricultural development.
Key achievements include a shift towards mechanized rice production, improved horticultural and fish farming yields, and enhanced veterinary services that facilitated Namibian beef exports to China.
“Overall, the deployment of SSC Cooperants proved highly successful, prompting Namibia to request a second phase of the project. Building upon the lessons learned and accomplishments of the initial phase, this ongoing partnership continues to strengthen Namibia’s agricultural capabilities and advance mutual development goals,” she said.
Shiweda further explained that the initiative is expected to enhance Namibia’s capabilities in modern agricultural techniques and sustainable farming practices.
This, in turn, is expected to not only improve food security but also strengthen the long-standing friendship between Namibia and China.
“The expertise and experience that our Chinese counterparts bring will undoubtedly enhance our capabilities in modern agricultural techniques and sustainable farming practices. Your contributions will not only impact the communities in ensuring food security but will also strengthen the longstanding bonds of friendship between our two Nations,” she said.
