Food self-sufficiency and food security: Understanding the difference
Local production drives sustainability
Achieving food self-sufficiency strengthens national food security, supports livelihoods and reduces dependence on imports.
Erastus NgarukaFood self-sufficiency and food security are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Food self-sufficiency is about relying on local production to meet daily food needs, rather than depending on purchases or imports. Food security, by contrast, refers to the availability and accessibility of sufficient, safe, and nutritious food, regardless of where it is produced.
Although different, food self-sufficiency is an important driver of food security and plays a key role in building sustainable livelihoods.
Global and local challengesWorldwide, food production and distribution face growing challenges from extreme climate events, rapid population growth, political instability, and trade restrictions. These pressures have left many countries struggling with food shortages. Namibia has not been spared; food scarcity is especially evident in vulnerable communities, where recurring droughts, floods, pests, and disease outbreaks continue to make matters worse.
Agriculture remains the backbone of Namibia’s economy and rural livelihoods. It provides food, creates employment, and generates income. The sector is dominated by livestock farming - mainly cattle, sheep, and goats - alongside enterprises such as poultry, piggery, and dairy. Crop farming includes staples like maize and millet, while horticulture produces grapes, dates, onions, tomatoes, carrots, cabbage, pumpkins, and more. Some are grown commercially, but the majority are produced under subsistence farming in communal areas, where most of the farming population resides.
Namibia’s agriculturalhurdlesNamibia produces food at different scales, from large commercial farms targeting local and export markets to small-scale farmers producing mainly for household use. Despite these efforts, the country remains heavily dependent on imports. Crops, poultry, and pork are among the key food products where local supply consistently falls short of national demand.The obstacles are many: limited farming knowledge and skills, restricted access to land and finance, a lack of quality inputs, outdated or unsuitable technologies, weak market access, poor infrastructure, and high production costs. Rural-urban migration, harsh climatic conditions, land degradation, pests, and disease outbreaks add further strain. In some cases, weak or slow implementation of policies and development programmes also hampers progress.
Building food self-sufficiencyAchieving food self-sufficiency requires a holistic approach, from production to consumption. Local research and innovation are crucial to identify sustainable farming practices, including technologies that support higher yields and safer, more resilient food systems. Promoting the use of indigenous foods can also strengthen local production.
Encouraging greater consumption of local foods is essential. This not only supports farmers but also reduces reliance on costly imports. Institutions such as schools, hospitals, prisons, and food relief programmes can play a powerful role in this shift. By sourcing from local producers, they create consistent demand that helps farmers sustain and expand their businesses.
Access to land, affordable finance, reliable inputs, and training opportunities are equally vital. However, Namibia’s dependence on imported inputs such as seeds, equipment, and machinery is a major weakness. Developing local industries to manufacture these inputs would lower production costs, cut food prices, and make the country less vulnerable to external supply shocks. Similarly, adding value to local raw materials would reduce the need for importing finished products, while boosting local industries and job creation.
Moving forward
Food self-sufficiency is not a stand-alone goal but part of a broader development agenda. It demands well-coordinated policies, supportive institutions, and targeted investments to strengthen the entire agricultural system. By working towards greater self-reliance, Namibia can secure its food future, strengthen its economy, and improve the wellbeing of its people.
* Erastus Ngaruka is Agribank’s Technical Advisor: Livestock & Rangeland Management