Niël Terblanché
The Namibia Agricultural Union (NAU), in collaboration with three other farmers’ unions, has been working tirelessly since January to address the devastating impact of the ongoing drought.
According to the NAU, the country has experienced persistent drought conditions for the past eleven years, with the years 2013, 2016, 2019, and now 2024 declared national emergencies.
“As the most arid country south of the Sahara, Namibian farmers are accustomed to drought, but the current situation is particularly severe,” the union said in a statement.
The union noted that prolonged dry spells have strained the agricultural sector, with stagnant weaner prices and rising production costs adding to the burden.
Despite these challenges, NAU, supported by government initiatives, is focussing on practical solutions to help farmers and rural communities cope with the drought.
NAU has been instrumental in launching awareness campaigns and providing emotional support through social media, including producing 20 videos offering practical advice to farmers.
The government’s drought relief program, which includes marketing incentives for farmers, livestock support, and financial assistance through private initiatives, complements these efforts.
The Namibian government, recognising the severity of the situation, has approved a comprehensive N$825 million drought relief support program for the 2024/2025 financial year.
This program aims to provide food assistance, seeds, horticulture support, and livestock aid to affected communities.
Of this, N$600 million is allocated specifically for food assistance, which will benefit over 1.2 million people across all regions of the country.
The program also includes subsidies for the purchase of animal feed and the sale of subsidised fodder through agricultural development.
In addition, the government has initiated efforts to improve access to essential resources such as water, which is critical for sustaining both livestock and crop production during these difficult times.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform has been active in distributing seeds and fertilisers at subsidised rates, aiming to support subsistence farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
The Nau said that the continued collaborative efforts between the government, agricultural unions, and private initiatives offer a glimmer of hope.
“By working together and maintaining a focus on practical solutions, the country’s farmers are not only surviving the crisis but also building resilience for the future,” the NAU said.
