Minister of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform Calle Schlettwein said government remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting farmers and rural communities.
Schlettwein, in a speech read on his behalf at the launch of the Kadila Poultry Farm in Okahandja on Friday, called on the Meat Board, the Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade, and all industry players to ensure there is a robust local market for local production.
“It is crucial that we prioritise and support Namibian products, fostering a self-sufficient and thriving agricultural sector. Moreover, the jobs created here will provide stable incomes for many families, contributing to the overall economic development of our country,” he said.
Schlettwein added that Kadila Poultry Farm will increase Namibia’s poultry production capacity, thereby reducing the country’s reliance on imports, keeping more of the wealth within the country’s borders, and strengthening the food supply chain.
“We are not just inaugurating a new poultry farm, we are celebrating the spirit of entrepreneurship, innovation and private sector initiative that drives our nation forward,” he said.
He said the project is geared to not only create much-needed employment opportunities, but is also aimed at strengthening Namibia’s food basket with poultry produce, adding that the agricultural sector has always been the backbone of Namibia’s economy, providing sustenance, employment and hope to countless Namibian families.
“Let us remember that Kadila is a symbol of what we can achieve when the private sector and the community work together with a shared purpose. It reminds us that progress is made through collaboration, dedication and a steadfast belief in our potential,” he added.
Kadila Poultry Farm is a 100% Namibian-owned broiler producer that will operates a six-house broiler farm with a capacity of producing 400 tons of poultry meat per month and is expected to create over 350 jobs once fully operational.
-Nampa