Despite, the late rains experienced countrywide, most of the Omaheke region has received more than 100mm this season thus far, particularly in December.
This was confirmed by Omaheke governor Pijoo Nganate who said the grazing is recovering well despite the unusually high temperatures.
The Omaheke and Kunene regions have been worst affected by the countrywide drought that has decimated swathes of pastures.
Nganate noted livestock are in fair to good conditions on average and is too early to predict a calamity right now.
“Maybe after the end of January, we shall have a clearer picture. Farmers are hopeful we have not reached the panic stage yet,” he said.
He noted most of the region has sufficient water for livestock and only a few points in the region are getting disturbed mostly as the result of breakages and overcrowding.
“The region is receiving rains but sporadically. Few showers are being recorded here and there. The scorching heat in the past two weeks has had a toll on the available moisture thus far,” Nganate briefed.
Giving an update on the weather yesterday, Namibia Meteorological Services’ chief forecaster, Odillo Kgobesti said widespread rain is expected over Namibia.
“Clearance is expected from Monday in Kunene, Erongo and southwestern parts till Wednesday. Rains will continue in the central- north, northeast and southeastern regions this week into the weekend. Very encouraging weather system over Namibia,” Kgobesti reported.
On horticulture, the governor said many farmers are venturing into vegetable gardening to mitigate household food security and test the market in Omaheke.
“We are fully encouraging farmers to create the market in the region and start supplying to schools, hospitals, police, defence and correctional services. My message is simply to move forward towards achieving food sustainability and security in the region and Namibia at large,” he encouraged.
On the heavy hailstorm reported to have struck the region, Nganate said trees and roofs have been damaged but no causalities or loss of livestock were recorded.
He noted the famous cattle country monument at the entrance of Gobabis, the region’s capital, was brought down in mid-December and is due to be repaired and fixed soon. “We are managing the aftermath of the hail of 18 December 2021.”
He also said livestock theft continues to be a thorn on the side of farmers and law enforcement in the region.
According to him, some rustlers are finding connection to the formal auctions in the region and beyond while others are slaughtering and selling meat to butchers in towns and cities.
“This is a criminal act and in the hands of law enforcement. My message is that the rustlers must stop reaping where they did not sow. Hard work is expected from each Namibian and you reap only what you sow. The long arm of the law will eventually reach you.”
- anakale@nepc.com.na