Namibian delegation explores Angola livestock trade
A Namibian delegation visited a cattle auction in Angola’s Cunene Province this month as part of efforts to strengthen cross-border livestock trade and agricultural cooperation between the neighbouring countries.
The delegation, led by Namibia’s ambassador to Angola, Leonard Iipumbu, attended the auction on 11 July during an official working visit to Angola.
The auction brought together livestock farmers, traders, buyers, government officials and other agricultural stakeholders, providing a platform to promote livestock trade, improve market access and support the regional agricultural economy.
Ohangwena governor Kadiva Hamutumwa said livestock production remains a key economic activity in southern Angola and northern Namibia, making cross-border collaboration important for regional economic integration and food security.
During the visit, the delegation observed the auction process and engaged with local authorities and livestock producers to better understand Angola’s livestock marketing systems, animal health standards and value chain development initiatives.
Hamutumwa said the discussions also focused on exchanging knowledge on livestock production, market development and strategies to improve the resilience and competitiveness of the sector.
The governor said the event highlighted how organised livestock auctions create income opportunities for farmers, encourage fair pricing and promote investment in quality livestock production.
"They also highlighted the need to strengthen veterinary services, market infrastructure and regional trade to unlock the sector’s full potential,” she said.
Hamutumwa said the visit demonstrated the agricultural potential of Cunene Province and reflected Angola’s efforts to modernise and commercialise its livestock sector.
She said the visit also reaffirmed Namibia's and Angola’s commitment to strengthening cooperation in agriculture, livestock development and cross-border trade, while promoting food security, employment creation and sustainable economic growth for communities on both sides of the border.
“The office of the governor remains committed to promoting regional collaboration and learning from successful initiatives that support agricultural transformation, improve market opportunities for farmers and advance the socio-economic development of the region,” Hamutumwa said.
