Despite Namibia having recorded high rainfall, farmers in areas susceptible to prolonged dry spells, particularly in the Kunene region, are being prepared to implement water and grazing strategies in anticipation of drought.

This season, Namibia received beneficial rain which led to increased dam levels, improved vegetation, bringing relief to farmers. 

However, in regions like Kunene, which are more prone to drought, farmers are expected to prepare in advance for what lies ahead, particularly regarding water management strategies and controlled grazing.

Oseu Oningandu Investment, a consultant agency contracted by the Namibia National Farmers’ Union (NNFU) and Environmental Investment Fund (EIF) is currently in the Kunene region undertaking workshops on integrated grazing and water management focusing on land and water resources in drought prone areas.

This week, more than 20 farmers at Erora village in the Opuwo Urban constituency were engaged on grazing management, wildfire prevention and rangeland rehydration strategies.

Oseu Oningandu Investment technical consultant Clinsman Kapi told Nampa in an interview that despite the recent rainfall, ongoing efforts are crucial to protect farmers from future droughts.

“We are undertaking training workshops to ensure that grazing areas are conserved for long periods while engaging farmers on methods of storing enough water, specifically from streams and rivers for future use. We are all aware how the prolonged dry spells have affected our farmers, thus we hope that through these workshops, farmers will be equipped with enough knowledge to help them in future,” he said.

According to Kapi, farmers are equally being trained in wildfire prevention by using grazing to reduce wildfire risk, which involves de-bushing and storing grass for dry periods.

“We know that wildfires become common during this period, and they destroy forests. Therefore, we are engaging farmers on ways to evade wildfires by de-bushing and reducing fire load, thus conserving grazing lands,” he added.

In areas such as Erwee, Warmquelle, Ombauejejo, Fransfontein and Sesfontein, where the EIF has established community gardens, farmers are encouraged to engage in fodder and crop production to ensure a reliable supply for livestock during dry periods. – Nampa