The recent sixth edition of the Bank Windhoek Agri Series brought together leading voices from government, finance and the agricultural sector at the Namibia Institute of Public Administration and Management (NIPAM) in Windhoek.
This year’s focus on genetic diversity is seen as pivotal for improving quality, resilience and yield, securing the future of agriculture in Namibia.
The event highlighted the vital role of genetic diversity in driving agricultural resilience and boosting productivity across Namibia’s farming communities. It brought together farmers, researchers, educators and public and private sector partners to discuss strategies for strengthening Namibia’s agricultural foundation in the face of climate pressures, shifting markets and rising consumer expectations. In a keynote address delivered on her behalf by agriculture ministry’s deputy executive director Kingsley Kwenani, agriculture minister Inge Zaamwani emphasised the critical role of genetic diversity in driving agricultural transformation.
“Genetic diversity is not a luxury – it is a necessity. It underpins our ability to adapt, innovate and compete, enabling drought tolerance, pest resistance, nutritional enhancement and improved yields. These traits are essential for building a resilient and inclusive agri-food system,” she stated. She outlined how genetic diversity supports Namibia’s Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), fostering productive capacity, environmental sustainability and inclusive socio-economic development.
The minister said strategic programmes, such as the Namibia Agricultural Mechanisation and Seed Improvement Project (NAMSIP), Conservation Agriculture and Climate-Smart Initiatives (CCAP II), the Livestock Support Programme and expanded investments in seed and irrigation, are operationalising these priorities. She highlighted the newly developed Strategy for the Transformation of the Agri-Food Sector in Namibia (STAS), which sets out priority areas for investment and stakeholder roles, serving as a blueprint for the agriculture chapter in NDP6.
“Let this Agri Series mark a turning point where vision meets action, and where Namibia’s agricultural future is shaped by unity, innovation and resolve,” Zaamwani said. Bank Windhoek managing director James Chapman, who welcomed the attendees, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting agricultural advancement through tailored financial solutions, sustainability loans and strategic partnerships.
“As a proudly Namibian financial institution, Bank Windhoek recognises the strategic importance of agriculture as a cornerstone of our nation’s economy and food security.Our partnership with John Deere and support for sustainable agriculture projects exemplify our dedication to empowering farmers and promoting environmental stewardship,” he said.
The Agri Series featured expert presentations from Jacque Els of the Namibia Stud Breeders Association, Thinus Pretorius of the Namibia Agricultural Union, Erastus Ngaruka of Agribank, and Goi Geurtse of SWAVET, each offering insights into genetic diversity, sustainable farming practices, rangeland management and animal health. Their contributions underscored the importance of innovation, knowledge-sharing and partnership in driving the sector forward.
The experts deliberated on pressing matters within the agricultural industry, offering solutions while emphasising the need for collective action as Namibians.
-ohembapu@nepc.com.na