!Naruseb launches ministerial stategic plan

WINDHOEK, 26 APR  – Two guiding documents for the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF): the five-year Strategic Plan and the National Policy on Sub-Division and Consolidation of Agricultural Land were launched in Windhoek on Thursday.
According to the Minister of Agriculture, Water and Forestry, Alpheus !Naruseb the two documents were developed in consultation with the stakeholders in response to the dynamic environment in which the ministry operates.
The Strategic Plan for 2017/18 to 2021/22 will, according to !Naruseb, serve as a roadmap for the MAWF to continue carrying out its mandate and functions for the next five years.
The minister further said the plan, which is aligned to the fifth National Development Plan and the Harambee Prosperity Plan, will subsequently contribute to the achievement of Vision 2030.
The five key themes underpinning the development of the strategic plan are sustainable livestock and forest management, sustainable food production, value chain development and market-oriented infrastructure, water and sanitation infrastructure, as well as operational excellence.
“The essence of the strategic plan are anchored in the Namibian Constitution, the national development plans as well as international, continental and regional agreements, protocols and treaties which Namibia is party to,” he said.
!Naruseb urged regional councils to participate in the implementation of the ministry’s 2018/19 Annual Work Plan, which was derived from the strategic plan to enable the MAWF to be responsive to the needs of all stakeholders, particularly farmers.
The National Policy on Sub-Division and Consolidation of Agricultural Land, meanwhile, advocates for guarding the sustainable existence of the agricultural sector.
The minister explained that this policy is specifically aimed at guarding against the subdivision of agricultural land into uneconomic units, as well as against speculation with agricultural land, which inevitably results in inflated prices.
Deputy Permanent Secretary for Water Affairs and Forestry, Abraham Nehemia, who also attended the launch, said the full and successful implementation of these documents will improve the performance of the agricultural sector and enhance its contribution to the country’s socio-economic development.

NAMPA