Grazing condition deteriorates in Namibia: official

WINDHOEK, FEB 21 — Grazing conditions in Namibia are reported to have deteriorated in various parts of the country during the course of the prolonged dry season, senior agro-business analyst at the agriculture ministry Matheus Ndjodhi said Wednesday.
The situation has been exacerbated by the delayed rainy season as well as the general poor rainfall performance.
“The situation is noted to be more severe in the southern regions of the country where poor rainfall was experienced last season. The Aminuis constituency in the Omaheke region was reported to be the hardest hit and according to the Agricultural Extension officials, mortality due to malnutrition in the area is on the rise,” he said.
“In the north eastern part of the country, Zambezi, Kavango East and Kavango West regions, grazing was reported to range between fair and poor in many places,” he said.
“In addition, water availability, particularly for livestock consumption was reported to be satisfactory in most areas with earth dam, pipeline, canal and wells being the main sources. However water shortages were reported in the cattle post areas where many farmers took their livestock for better grazing.” he said. – XINHUA