By Kaleb Nghishidivali
Windhoek, 10 Augudy 2023. Namibia has been the recipient of a generous agricultural donation from the Federative Republic of Brazil, aimed at fortifying the country’s agricultural sector. Expressing profound gratitude on behalf of Namibia, Minister of Agriculture, Water, and Forestry, Carl Scheltwein, lauded the Brazilian Government and its people for their impactful contribution.
The donation, valued at N$2.2 million, stands as a testament to the enduring relationship between Brazil and Namibia, which has flourished since before Namibia’s independence and continues to strengthen. Aligned with Namibia’s national development goals, the donation is set to empower the agriculture sector, reduce vulnerability, and enhance food and nutrition security at both community and national levels.
Minister Scheltwein emphasized the significance of this contribution in advancing Namibia’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly addressing Goal (1) – No Poverty and Goal (2) – Zero Hunger. He outlined the multifaceted ways in which the donated funds would be utilized by beneficiary communities, including fostering local food production, improving nutrition, enhancing livelihoods, promoting education, and contributing to national food security objectives.
Highlighting Namibia’s strides towards food self-sufficiency, the Minister noted the surplus position in beef and fish production, as well as the commendable 80% local maize production rate. While acknowledging the need for improvement in millet and wheat production, he celebrated the milestone of several horticultural products crossing the 50% local production mark.
Minister Scheltwein extended gratitude to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, for prioritizing agriculture and food business sectors as pivotal areas for investment, poverty reduction, and job creation. He also recognized the value of South-South Cooperation and economic integration.
Further appreciation was expressed for Dr. George Fedha, Country Director of the World Food Programme, and Mrs. Ericah Shafudah, Deputy Country Director, for their dedicated efforts and technical support in realizing Namibia’s aspirations for food and nutrition security.
In conclusion, the Minister expressed optimism that this donation marks a significant stride towards bolstering Namibia’s agriculture sector and achieving self-sufficiency in food production. -Namibia Daily News
