Taimi Haihambo
Recent rain showers in the northern parts of Namibia have renewed hopes to farmers, who are optimistic that this year’s rainy season will once again deliver a good harvest.
For the past two weeks, several northern areas have experienced consistent rainfall, a development that has lifted the spirits of many rural communities. The showers have been recorded in places such as Tsumeb and it is surroundings, Oshakati, Ondangwa, and Tsintsabis, among others.
Many farmers have already started preparing their fields, buying fertilizers and seeds, and setting aside money for ploughing.
Christina Kulipi, a 65-year-old farmer from the north, said she has already begun saving up to purchase fertilizer and mahangu seeds.
“The early bird catches the worm,” she said, explaining that she wants to be ready once the rains become heavier.
Kulipi also urged fellow farmers, especially senior citizens, to manage their finances wisely during this period. “This is not the time to waste money at cuca shops or on tombo,” she said. “We should be using this time to raise funds for ploughing so that when the time comes, we are ready,” she stated.
By the end of November and early January, most farmers are expected to begin full ploughing activities, hiring local tractor operators who move from one homestead to the next offering their services.
Last year, the northern parts of the country also received good rainfall, which resulted in a productive harvest for many subsistence farmers. The recent downpours have therefore reminded them of those positive outcomes and encouraged early preparations for the upcoming ploughing season.