Zebaldt Ngaruka
The recent Omaheke Crop Farmers Fair, held at Otjiuaneho village in the Otjinene constituency, has been widely celebrated as a significant milestone in the region’s agricultural development.
Organised to promote crop farming and knowledge-sharing among local farmers, the event drew participants from all seven constituencies within Omaheke, marking a notable shift from the region’s traditional reliance on livestock farming.
Mcdonald Tjinjama, the technical advisor for the Omaheke Crop Farmers Fair, highlighted the event’s success in an interview with Select Agri.
“The high level of participation from farmers across Omaheke demonstrates that the region, historically known for livestock production, is making substantial progress in crop agriculture,” he said.
Tjinjama emphasised the educational aspect of the event, noting that farmers brought their produce from personal gardens, providing a platform for sharing practical experiences.
“We also provided important information aimed at improving productivity, with experts from Agribank and other stakeholders present to offer technical skills and relevant support,” he added.
The fair also featured a vibrant marketplace, where farmers showcased and sold their produce, fostering direct engagement between producers and consumers.
Participants expressed motivation through various activities, including crop competitions and awards for outstanding contributions.
Recognising excellence
The contest recognised outstanding farmers and constituencies for their achievements.
Aminuis constituency emerged as the top performer, winning the coveted overall best crop-producing constituency accolade.
Its crop farmers secured the best crop processor award, with Gobabis and Okorukambe following in second and third places, respectively.
Individual honours included Kapurua Kuhanga from Gobabis, who received the Best Crop Producer Award.
Gabi Investment of Ngerikomukuenu Kandetu from Aminuis was awarded second place, while Ehupo mu Eden of Alma Kahorere from Okorukambe took third.
Additional recognition was given to Otjinene, the event’s host, which was awarded the title of Best Implementing Constituency based on last year’s performance in implementing crop initiatives.
Otjinene was followed closely by Aminuis and Gobabis in second and third positions, respectively.
Jorry Kaurivi received the Pioneer Award for his unwavering dedication to the event since its inception ten years ago.
The Lifetime Achiever Award was bestowed on Ngerikomukuenu Kandetu of Aminuis, recognising her longstanding commitment and contributions to crop farming in the region.
Kandetu expressed pride in her achievements and those of her colleagues, attributing their success to teamwork, determination and support from local leaders.
“We represented our entire constituency and supported each other throughout the journey,” she said.
She acknowledged the mentorship and encouragement from local officials, including Aminuis councillor Isando Kavari, Karahii Kavari and mentor Carlos Tjiho.
Despite some top crop producers, such as Hiuii from Corridor 6 and Katuuo from Orevia, not being present this year, Kandetu highlighted the participation of young farmers like Kakunaa Katuuo, who was representing Namibia’s youth entrepreneurship abroad.
Food security
Kandetu highlighted the importance of maintaining and enhancing Omaheke’s reputation in horticultural production.
“We need to uphold our standing, train more farmers in horticulture, and focus on value addition to improve food security, not only for Aminuis but for the entire Omaheke region,” she stated.
She concluded with an optimistic outlook: “Our goal is to eventually be able to feed the nation and reduce reliance on food imports through sustainable local production”.
The Omaheke Crop Farmers Fair has, thus, been hailed as a catalyst for advancing crop agriculture in a region better known for livestock, promising a more diverse and resilient agricultural future for Namibia’s eastern border region.
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