In the heart of Namibia, a small but mighty endeavour has sparked a wave of hope for the country’s farmers and food security. The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform has achieved something truly remarkable, thanks to the African Development Bank.
They have welcomed over 600 tractors into the fold, but these are not just any tractors. They are the backbone of the Namibia Agricultural Mechanisation and Seed Improvement Project, affectionately known as Namsip. And the timing couldn’t have been more perfect.
Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata, the executive director of agriculture, water, and land reform, delivered the exciting news in Outapi, nestled in the Omusati region. She revealed the harsh reality that many rural farmers face in Namibia – the struggle to access crucial agricultural resources such as seeds, machinery, and equipment when they need it the most.
This predicament has taken a toll on agricultural production, making it challenging for farmers to handle and sell their produce. However, the arrival of these new tractors is set to change the game. Namsip has procured 350 tractors, each equipped with a carefully curated set of tools. But they didn’t stop there; they also acquired 380 walking tractors, each with its own set of essential gear.
The Omusati region, in particular, has received a substantial allocation of 42 tractors and 26 walking tractors, which is no small feat. These machines will revolutionize the way farmers work, especially in areas heavily reliant on rain for their crops. With increased efficiency, farmers will be able to produce more, effectively bolstering food security in the country.
But that’s not all. To ensure that these tractors fulfil their potential, the ministry has trained 438 farm machinery operators, with 152 completing an intensive month-long program. The aim? To equip them with the necessary skills to operate and maintain the tractors effectively.
With these enhancements, agricultural production in Namibia is set to soar, paving the way for improved food security and greater self-sufficiency. It’s a reason to rejoice, indeed.
