NAB launches strategy to boost local crop production

The Namibia Agronomic Board (NAB) has officially launched its 2023/24 annual report, business plan and crop value chain strategy for the next five years.

The strategies are aimed at transforming Namibia’s agronomic and horticultural sectors.

Speaking at the event on Friday, minister of agriculture, water and land reform Inge Zaamwani-Kamwi highlighted that the new strategy provides a roadmap to achieve self-sufficiency, increase local production, and reduce dependence on imports.

“The crop value chain strategy outlines interventions that will move Namibia from being a net importer of staple crops to producing more locally.

“This is critical for our food security and economic resilience,” she said.

Zaamwani-Kamwi said the NAB’s strategic plan aligns with government initiatives, including the Harambee Prosperity Plan II and National Development Plans, focusing on innovation, research, and capacity building in agriculture.

NAB chief executive Fidelis Mwazi highlighted the development of four crop-specific marketing standards to ensure production meets market quality and food safety requirements.

“Over the years, farmers and the industry have been trained to follow these standards, as this is what the market demands,” he explained.

According to the annual report, agricultural exports increased from N$1.7 billion to N$1.9 billion over the past financial year, while 9.3 million cartons of table grapes were inspected for export compliance.

The report also notes that only 20% of grains and 4% of fruit consumed in Namibia are produced locally, highlighting an 80 to 96% import gap that presents significant opportunities for local farmers.

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