Namibia’s milk production increased to 4.2 million litres during the third quarter, marking a 7.5% surge in annual production and an 11% growth from the previous quarter, latest data shows.
According to the Bank of Namibia (BoN), the growth was largely attributed to an increase in the number of milk-producing cows and advancements in technology that have enhanced the efficiency of milk production processes.
“Milk production rose annually and quarterly by 7.5 per cent and 11.0 per cent, respectively, to 4.2 million litres during the third quarter of 2024. The increase was ascribed to a rise in the number of milk-producing cows and the improved technological capabilities used to enhance and efficiently produce milk,” the Bank’s 2024 quarterly report read.
The BoN further reported that local crop production suffered notable declines, impacted by unfavourable weather conditions, particularly the insufficient and irregular rainfall during the 2023/24 rainy season.
Domestic crop production fell by 26.6% year-on-year, totalling just 14,633 tonnes for the quarter. The decline was most pronounced in staple crops, with white maize and pearl millet seeing decreases of 56.7% and 74.0%, respectively.
To counteract the shortfall, crop imports surged by 60.3%, reaching 91,333 tonnes for the quarter under review, a significant rise from the previous period’s 56,961 tonnes.
“Local production of crops declined year-on-year and quarter-on-quarter due to unfavourable weather conditions that negatively impacted domestic crop production during the quarter under review,” the BoN reported.
