The Namibian Agronomy and Horticulture Awards 2024 took center stage last week, spotlighting the nation’s premier producers, traders, input suppliers, and other key contributors to the agronomy and horticulture value chain.
This esteemed event celebrated exceptional achievements in advancing food security amidst the growing challenges posed by climate change.
Hosted at the Olushandja Marketing Hub in the Omusati Region, the event drew together key stakeholders, government representatives, input suppliers, farming community, processors and traders to honour the best in Namibia’s crop industry.
Erginus Endjala, Governor of Oshana Region, delivered the opening address, acknowledging the vital role of Namibia’s crop value chain actors in propelling the nation’s crop subsector forward. He highlighted the event’s theme, “Enhancing Food Security Amidst Climate Change Challenges,” which underscores the significance of sustainability and innovation in overcoming Namibia’s agricultural obstacles. Endjala commended the Omusati Region’s contributions to agronomy (grain) and horticulture (fruits & vegetable) production, particularly through initiatives like the Etunda Irrigation Project, and expressed optimism about the region’s potential for cultivating subtropical and tropical fruits.
Chairperson of the Namibian Agronomic Board, Hubertus Hamm, praised the notable advancements within Namibia’s crop subsector. He emphasized the necessity of resilience and modern farming techniques in addressing climate change, citing achievements such as increased local market share and the growth of horticultural product exports. “Our export performance from 2020 to 2023 has seen remarkable growth,” said Dr. Fidelis N. Mwazi, CEO of the Namibian Agronomic Board.
“The implementation of the horticulture Market Share Promotion (MSP) scheme has driven an increase from 38% in 2022 to 40% in 2023, while our grain self-sufficiency decreased from 38% in 2022 to 20% in 2023, due to drought. This steady growth is further highlighted by the tremendous boost in horticulture exports, which surged from N$674 million in 2010 to N$1.9 billion in 2023. The increase in horticulture Market Share Promotion percentage and the exports numbers reflect our collective effort to strengthen Namibia’s crop subsector and its competitiveness in international markets.”
On the other hand , there is a need to build resilience in the production of grain in the country, as climate change remains one of the biggest risk.
Hamm also emphasized Namibia’s role within the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), stating, “As a member of SACU, Namibia advocates for balanced trade and equitable development among member states. We must revisit the SACU agreement to promote collective growth and prevent the extraction of value by one member state. Policies must not hinder our ability to access and implement strategies for the benefit of all SACU members.” Hamm further highlighted the importance of regulatory reforms, improved resource access, and collaborative efforts among role players to ensure sustained crop value chain development and long-term food security. Hamm also called on government to urgently address the high cost of electricity tariffs in the country, since it is hindering investment in the agriculture sector.
Leevi Nekwaya, Deputy Director – North Central of the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, delivered the keynote address, reaffirming the government’s dedication to securing Namibia’s agricultural future. He announced the launch of a comprehensive N$825 million drought-relief program aimed at supporting vulnerable communities with food, seeds, fertilizers, and water access. Nekwaya underscored the need for collaboration among farmers, the private sector, and government to build a resilient and sustainable agricultural sector capable of withstanding climate challenges.
In a gesture of solidarity and support, the Namibian Agronomic Board proudly announced a donation of N$1 million to the Office of the Prime Minister. This contribution is directed towards the drought relief program, reinforcing NAB’s commitment to mitigating the impacts of the current drought and supporting affected communities. The National Agronomy and Horticulture Awards 2024 underscored the pivotal role of Namibia’s farmers in shaping the future of the country’s agricultural landscape, inspiring renewed commitment to food security and sustainable practices.