Zebaldt Ngaruka 

Over 198 drought-stricken farmers from the //Kharas, Hardap, Erongo and Otjozondjupa regions were recently thrown a lifeline after FirstRand Namibia donated animal feed and numerous supplements worth over N$1 million. 

FirstRand is rolling out the drought relief programme in collaboration with Drought Relief Namibia, a private entity that has since 2015 been a distribution and relief vehicle for struggling farmers countrywide.

Henriëtta Le Grange, director of the entity, said the funds raised and donations received are primarily aimed at helping farmers during drought periods. 

“We are very thankful to FirstRand Namibia for coming on board and helping us reach our objectives. Our mandate is to generate as many funds and donations to assist the farmers to continue farming after the drought crisis,” said Le Grange.

She added that acquiring funds is difficult, and donations of this nature will have a positive impact on the drought-hit farmers.

“This is a very applaudable gesture from FirstRand Namibia for seeing the significance of our company’s role to the farming community of our country. Our main challenge remains the procurement of affordable fodder. The costs associated with feeding our livestock have become increasingly burdensome, and finding cheaper alternatives such as yellow maize is proving difficult,” Le Grange shared with AgriToday. 

Asked what is required from an affected farmer to get assistance from Drought Relief Namibia, she  said the application forms can be obtained from all regional coordinators.

“One needs to fill out the application form, which provides all required information,
including personal details, farm location and description of drought impact, and attach relevant documents needed to support your application. These must be adhered to, and it is never a guarantee that we can assist everyone who applied,” she stated. 

FirstRand Namibia’s corporate
social investment manager Revonia Job said the N$1 million donation will make a huge difference in the lives of affected farmers, who are the backbone of the country’s economy and livelihood.

Another N$1 million from FirstRand Namibia for food parcels is also set for mid-August, and is earmarked for the Kunene and Erongo regions.

“Knowing that help is on the way is already a relief to our farmers across the country. Food security is an issue that brings everyone together, no matter where you are or what you do,” said Job.

One of the beneficiaries, Norton Izaks from farm Good Hope based at Schlip, expressed gratitude, saying the assistance came at the right time as he had no idea how to overcome the next months.

“I am really happy. I got 10 bags of fodder, and will also get grass bales that will help my livestock to survive this difficult period. There was nothing left on our side as farmers, and I appreciate this assistance,” he said.

He also got a breather when he received his subsidy from the government, which he donated to Drought Relief Namibia.

-zngaruka@gmail.com