Namibia has secured a N$30 million grant through a joint effort by the UN Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) and China to support farmers through technical assistance, improved technology, and training programmes.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform’s Senior Public Relations Officer Jona Musheko, the collaboration falls under the second phase of the UN FAO-China South-South Cooperation (SSC) programme, a three-year initiative running from September 2023 to September 2025.
“It is expected to enhance Namibia’s capacity, diversify its economy, and contribute to technology transfer, skills development for locals and increased national productivity,” he said.
He further explained that the project is already underway and aims to benefit Namibian citizens in various ways.
Farmers will gain knowledge and resources in areas like soil fertility, plant health, seed production, and poultry farming.
The poultry production focus specifically targets rural women and youth. By providing technical assistance, the project aims to empower them to establish or expand their indigenous chicken businesses, ultimately increasing productivity.
Musheko further said another key area that the project aims to tackle is soil improvement. He said Namibia has poor quality soil and there is a lack of knowledge among farmers regarding nutrient needs and proper fertiliser application.
“The SSC would, therefore, provide soil experts with the capacity to capacitate researchers, extension personnel, and farmers in all aspects of soil management,” he said.
Additionally, the project has been integrated into the national development goals. The project is expected to enhance agricultural production efficiency and sustainability, diversify the economy, and contribute to technology transfer, skills development, and overall national productivity.
Musheko further explained that the agriculture Ministry will lead the project and has established a national Project Steering Committee.
The committee will oversee the guidance, coordination, and deployment of the 11 Chinese experts and three technicians assigned to the initiative.
