President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah says she is encouraged by the progress made at Namibia’s northern green schemes, citing improved production and stronger farmer support following government interventions introduced two years ago.
Speaking after inspecting several green schemes in the Kavango East, Kavango West, Ohangwena and Omusati regions, the President said the projects are beginning to show positive results despite challenges posed by heavy rainfall and infrastructure constraints.
“But by and large, I can tell you that I am satisfied with what they have done,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said during her visit to the Ndonga Linena Green Scheme.
The President’s remarks come after a week-long tour of key agricultural projects, including the Etunda Green Scheme in Omusati, the Ekoka Brownfield Green Scheme in Ohangwena, the Sikondo Green Scheme in Kavango West, and the Uvhungu-Vhungu, Shadikongoro and Ndonga Linena Green Schemes in Kavango East.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said improvements at the schemes follow recommendations she submitted to Cabinet in 2024 while serving as Vice President to address operational and production challenges affecting the projects.
According to the President, farmers have since reported improved support from government and better production outcomes.
At Ndonga Linena, farmers reported increased cereal production compared to the previous season, despite delays caused by heavy rains. The scheme has also commenced winter wheat planting.
The President said the improvements demonstrate the importance of sustained government oversight and investment in agriculture.
“Under NDP6, which is informed by the SWAPO election manifesto, agriculture is both a priority area as well as an enabler. If the green schemes are not productive, it will be very difficult for the government to convince citizens to invest in agriculture for us to ensure food security,” she said.
She also highlighted efforts to diversify production across the schemes.
At Sikondo, mixed farming operations now include garlic production, while plans are underway to establish a feedlot. At Ndonga Linena, undeveloped land has been earmarked for tree crops, vegetables and other cash crops as part of efforts to expand production and improve sustainability.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said agriculture remains central to Namibia’s efforts to strengthen food security, create jobs and reduce reliance on imported food.
“When you feed your own people, and when you create jobs, people become self-reliant because if you are working, you can take care of yourself,” she said.
The President pledged to continue monitoring the performance of green schemes annually to ensure momentum is maintained and investments translate into higher agricultural output.
“From now, I must be visiting these green schemes every year. Now, when I came now, I am even more happy,” she said.
