WFP supports Namibia’s efforts to ramp up food production
Food self-sufficiency
Namibia has attained commendable levels of food self-sufficiency, largely attributed to the sustained efforts of smallholder and large-scale farmers, coupled with the support from the World Food Programme (WFP) in bolstering end-to-end food systems within the country.For the first time in fifteen years, Namibia has achieved a self-sufficiency rate of 45 per cent, marking a significant milestone in its agricultural landscape. Despite being a desert nation, Namibia has markedly decreased its reliance on food imports, particularly staple grains like maize, pearl millet, and wheat. Collaborative endeavours among farmers, agro-processors, and industry stakeholders, along with marketing agreements, have spurred crop production, enhanced market access, and bolstered overall sustainability.
Lawrence Sampofu, Governor of the Zambezi Region, underscored the region's notable contribution to white maize and pearl millet grain production, stressing the importance of optimizing fertile land and favourable rainfall. He noted that the Zambezi region accounts for seven per cent of white maize and 25 per cent of pearl millet grain production.
The Namibian Agronomic Board (NAB) plays a pivotal role in regulating the movement of agronomic and horticultural products, implementing import restrictions to shield local producers from competition and promoting food self-sufficiency through market share enhancement, specifically controlled products, and grain marketing schemes.
Dr Fidelis Mwazi, Chief Executive Officer of the NAB, articulated the objective of expanding operations, increasing crop production, and propelling Namibia toward food self-sufficiency while reducing reliance on imports. He reaffirmed the commitment to implementing a robust import substitution program, including initiatives like the MSP, to cultivate a conducive environment and a flourishing market for local farmers.
The WFP is actively promoting end-to-end food systems in Namibia by providing climate-smart technology, drought-resistant seeds, infrastructure investment, clean energy, market access, and agricultural training. George Fedha, WFP's Representative and Country Director in Namibia, emphasized the organization's role in aligning with the Namibian government's priorities to scale up domestic food production and foster partnerships and investments that enhance the country's food system efficiency and effectiveness.
Furthermore, the WFP extends technical support to the government to strengthen the food systems value chain and accelerate rural transformation towards achieving Zero Hunger.