Niël Terblanché
Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah embarked on a two-day familiarisation tour of the green schemes in the Kavango East and Kavango West regions in an effort to strengthen the country’s agricultural production.
On Monday, Vice President Nandi-Ndaitwah re-commissioned the cold-pressed sunflower oil production facility at the Shadikongoro Green Scheme.
The sunflower oil production facility was revived this year after its closure in 2021 due to a lack of finance.
According to a report by the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation, the vice president said that the cultivation of sunflowers and the use of a press to diversify and add value to produce aims to reduce the reliance on imported edible oils.
“The commissioning of the sunflower oil production facility is a demonstration of our dedication to transforming the agricultural sector. By adding value to our produce, we not only boost the economy but also empower our farmers and communities,” she said.
The initiative is expected to create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth within the region.
The delegation also visited the Ndonga Linena and Uvhungu Vhungu Green Schemes, both of which play pivotal roles in the country’s agricultural landscape.
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s visit to the green schemes demonstrated the importance of strategic investments in agriculture and the potential benefits of such initiatives for rural communities and the broader Namibian economy.
Accompanied by a technical team led by Executive Director Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata from the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, the visit underscored the government’s commitment to enhancing food security and promoting sustainable farming practices.
“Green Schemes are integral to Namibia’s strategy to enhance food production and ensure sustainable livelihoods for rural communities,” she said.
During the visits, discussions with staff of the various Greens Schemes centred on improving irrigation systems, adopting modern farming techniques, and addressing challenges such as water scarcity and climate change impacts.
While in discussions, Nandi-Ndaitwah stressed the importance of innovation in agriculture.
She explained that the government’s focus on the Green Schemes aligns with broader regional initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable development.
The vice president added that the government’s commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity is also evident in its support for small-scale farmers.
Nandi-Ndaitwah encouraged the nation to invest in agriculture to diminish unemployment among the youth and reduce poverty.
She expanded on the potential of green schemes in regions like Kavango East and West and said that the infrastructure, if utilised optimally, can transform livelihoods and contribute to national food security.
