WINDHOEK - Cabinet has expressed concern that government green schemes lack capacity for fodder production and directed relevant authorities to ensure such capacity is boosted.

The ministries of agriculture and finance have thus been directed to make financial provision for fodder production – to fund activities such as planting of fodder, boost hydroponic systems and acquire bush-to-fodder machines.

Namibia is battling one of her worst droughts in recorded history, to the extent that government has taken it upon itself to buy fodder worth millions of dollars to help affected farmers feed their livestock.

Having initially undermined the extent of the drought, government in recent weeks availed additional funding to regional councils across the country for installation of water pipelines and rehabilitation of water points.
Many green schemes, operated by state-owned company Agribusdev, have endured acute financial challenges in recent times, to the extent some had power disconnected for non-payment.
Paying employee salaries has also been another challenge facing Agrisbusdev. 

“Cabinet took note of the challenges at green schemes and directed the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry to develop  a comprehensive business model(s) for the operation of the various green schemes for consideration by Cabinet within a period of one month,” reads a Cabinet briefing released this week.