Niël Terblanché
Calle Schlettwein, Namibia’s Minister of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, is currently attending the World Food Programme (WFP) Executive Board’s Second Regular Session in Rome.
An essential agenda item is the presentation and anticipated approval of Namibia’s Country Strategic Plan (CSP) for the 2025–2029 period.
The CSP outlines Namibia’s roadmap to eradicate poverty and hunger, aligning with the nation’s Vision 2030 and the Fifth National Development Plan (NDP5).
It emphasizes strengthening systems governing food security, social protection, and emergency preparedness.
The plan aims to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive effective support, building upon past achievements in these sectors.
During the official opening session on Monday, Minister Schlettwein stressed the grave importance of water resources.
He advocated for increased funding towards water projects, highlighting that such investments are essential for tangible development and addressing the severe drought conditions Namibia faces.
“Drought in Namibia is a real problem which needs urgent and serious interventions. Prioritising water infrastructure over military expenditures would significantly benefit the nation,” he stated.
Namibia’s participation in this session reflects a collaborative effort among various government ministries, all contributing to the finalization of the CSP.
According to Schlettwein, this collective approach demonstrates the country’s commitment to working alongside the WFP to achieve shared goals of poverty eradication and food security.
The WFP’s engagement in Namibia focuses on delivering transformative support that aligns with the country’s development objectives.
By strengthening key systems, the WFP aims to enhance Namibia’s capacity to respond to food security challenges and emergencies, ensuring a healthier and more food-secure population.
The approval of the CSP by the WFP Executive Board is anticipated to strengthen Namibia’s efforts in these areas, providing a structured framework for implementing initiatives over the next five years.
The strategic plan is expected to play a key role in guiding Namibia towards achieving its development targets, particularly in the realms of agriculture, water management, and social welfare.
The minister said that the CSP will pave the way for enhanced collaboration between Namibia and the WFP.
He added that such a partnership would address pressing issues related to food security and resource management, ultimately contributing to the nation’s sustainable development.
The emphasis on water resource management, as highlighted by Schlettwein, reiterates the critical need for targeted investments to mitigate the impacts of climate change and ensure the well-being of Namibia’s populace.
The session in Rome commenced on Monday and will conclude on Friday.
