Niël Terblanché
The South-South Cooperation Project between Namibia and China demonstrates the country’s commitment to building a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future.
The project aims to strengthen agriculture and diversify economic opportunities, and with shared efforts, this collaboration holds promise for a more resilient Namibia.
The launch of the second phase of the South-South Cooperation Project in Windhoek on Wednesday took Namibia to take a step toward improved agricultural development.
The initiative, which will be implemented under the auspices of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), seeks to address Namibia’s agricultural challenges, enhance food security, and promote sustainable development.
The Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, Anna Shiweda, while speaking at the launch pointed to unique challenges the nation faces due to its arid climate and inherently poor soils.
Shiweda said that despite these conditions, agriculture remains essential to Namibia’s economy, providing livelihoods for a substantial portion of the population.
“This project addresses the pressing needs of our farmers and agricultural sector by providing technical assistance in critical areas such as plant health, seed production, poultry production, vocational education, soil fertility, and fisheries,” she said.
According to the deputy minister, the collaboration will focus on strengthening capacities in these vital sectors.
Enhancing plant health management aims to protect crops from diseases and pests, a priority that promises to boost crop yields and strengthen food security.
Additionally, advancements in seed production will facilitate the distribution of high-quality, locally adapted seeds, fostering resilience in Namibia’s agricultural sector.
One of the project’s standout components is its focus on poultry production, a key source of income for many rural Namibians.
The initiative aims to maximize the sector’s productivity through training in poultry husbandry.
Additionally, vocational education and training provided by the Tsumis Arid Zone Agricultural Centre will equip young Namibians with the practical skills needed for success in agriculture.
The project also emphasizes the importance of soil fertility, equipping researchers and farmers with knowledge and tools to improve soil health, thus fostering sustainable farming practices.
In fisheries, the collaboration is set to strengthen Namibia’s aquaculture sector.
“Strengthening this industry will contribute to food security while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. This is a shining example of how countries can work together to address global challenges and achieve shared prosperity,” she said.
He added that Namibia’s cooperation with China through the FAO represents more than just a bilateral agreement.
According to the minister, the South-South Cooperation Project is a clear demonstration of the country’s commitment to building a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future.
Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata, the executive director of the agriculture ministry, echoed these sentiments in her welcoming remarks, emphasizing that the partnership aligns with Namibia’s fifth National Development Plan, which prioritizes agriculture, food security, and fisheries.
She welcomed the team of eight Chinese experts who will provide essential technical assistance in soil management, animal husbandry, and fisheries, among other areas.
“These consultants will provide invaluable technical assistance, helping us to enhance productivity and resilience across the agricultural sector,” she said.
“It is a model for South-South partnerships, where nations collaborate to share resources, expertise, and solutions for mutual benefit. Namibia remains deeply grateful for China’s support, which has enabled effective collaboration on projects like this,” Nghituwamata said and added that the project aligns with the country’s Sustainable Development Goals.
According to the deputy minister, the South-South Cooperation Project is a clear demonstration of the country’s commitment to building a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future.
