The Ndevahoma Auction Kraal in the Ohangwena region is now operational following its launch and handover to Omauni Wood Carpentry Enterprise late last month.
Located at Okongo, the kraal was built with funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Global Environment Facility through the Namibia Integrated Landscape Approach for Enhancing Livelihoods and Environmental Governance to Eradicate Poverty (Nilaleg) project, which is being implemented by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism.
Environment minister Indileni Daniel says the development underscores the government’s intentions to create jobs, strengthen local enterprises, improve household incomes and empower rural communities.
Daniel says farmers in the area have previously had to travel long distances to access formal markets, which increases costs and reduces income from their livestock.
“It provides a platform where livestock can be marketed competitively and transparently, ensuring that farmers receive fair value for their animals. Since becoming operational, this facility has facilitated the sale of more than 1 100 [head of] cattle and generated almost N$10 million in turnover. More than N$8.9 million has gone directly into the pockets of farmers and their families,” the minister says.
Daniel describes the auction kraal as an environmental investment as people understand that healthy livestock depend on healthy grazing land.
“When grazing pressure becomes too high, rangelands deteriorate, livestock productivity declines and communities become more vulnerable to drought. By creating opportunities for timely livestock off-take, this facility helps reduce pressure on grazing resources, promotes better rangeland management and supports sustainable livestock production,” she says.
During the launch, UNDP resident representative in Namibia Amanda Serumaga said the project recognises that environmental sustainability and poverty reduction are closely linked.
“Healthy landscapes support livelihoods, strengthen resilience and create opportunities for communities. Through its integrated landscape approach, Nilaleg has shown that sustainable development succeeds when it improves both people’s lives and the environment, while empowering communities to shape their own future,’’ Serumaga said.
She said the Ndevanhoma kraal is a practical example of this approach.
Animal auctions in the northern communal areas are being held monthly and have created a platform where animal farmers in these areas can sell their animals at competitive prices.
