Zebaldt Ngaruka
THE Otjozondjupa Agronomy and Horticulture Forum says Namibians must roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty working the land, to feed themselves.
This was said by the newly-formed forum’s chairperson, Mbaotama Karita, who added that Namibia is blessed with abundant water reserves and fertile land, which, if utilised optimally, could make the country food self-reliant.
Karita was speaking during a recent interview with New Era which covered several issues, primarily the forum’s efforts to promote horticulture and grain production in Namibia, and Otjozondjupa region in particular.
According to Karita, who comes from a community that focuses primarily on livestock farming, a need arose to shift attention to agronomy and horticulture, with the main aim being to strengthen food security in the
region.
“We are encouraging farmers to start producing their own food for sustainability instead of relying on imported products. This will also create jobs and grow the economy of the region,” he explained.
The forum works hand-in-hand with the Namibia Agronomic Board (NAB).
The NAB primarily promotes the agronomic industry, facilitating the production, processing, storage and marketing of controlled products in Namibia.
It seeks to assist farmers to venture into gardening projects in the region.
“We have a one-hectare garden in Okondjatu and another of about 10 ha at Ozonahi, which are not big enough to feed this vast region,” said Karita.
He said it is heart-breaking for him that Namibians import over 70% of their food from neighbouring South Africa.
“We encourage farmers to establish big gardens that meet the demands of our people. That way, NAB will close the borders for importing horticulture products. Last year alone, N$138 million was spent on importing potatoes and N$18 million on onion imports.
“But we have the land and water. Why should we be importing food?” Karita asked.
Asked how the board will motivate farmers to produce their own for commercial and self-sustenance purposes, he said the farmers will be taken on tour of green schemes in Kavango East and West for benchmarking.
“We will also tour the Etunda Green Scheme and visit other farmers with big gardens in northern Namibia to get exposure,” Karita added.
He urged farmers in the region to register with the NAB, to reap benefits that come with membership.
“Once farmers are registered and start producing, the board will even close the borders to allow local farmers to produce for local supermarkets that rely heavily on imports,” Karita explained.
Plans are underway for the forum to establish a hub where crop producers can sell their produce.
“We are still accessing the area, whether in Otjiwarongo and Okahandja. Also, we want to have a green scheme garden in the region but the place is yet to be identified,” Karita said.
The forum executive comprises four members, Karita and vice chairperson Veripi Mungunda Katjivena, Gerson Kenaendo Kaapehi the secretary general, deputised by Belinda Seuaa Mengo.
Last month, the forum drafted its constitution and a three-year strategic plan.
- zngaruka@yahoo.com