The deputy chairperson of the Meat Board of Namibia, Dr Archie Noval who died last week, has been hailed as a stoic figure in the agriculture industry.
Agriculture minister Calle Schlettwein, in a tribute to Noval, said he contributed greatly to the growth of Namibia’s meat industry and the agricultural sector.
Schlettwein praised Noval’s “concomitant efforts and energy to the Directorate of Veterinary Services, ensuring the maintenance of Namibia’s access to distinct and lucrative international markets”.
He said Noval’s death is a major loss to Namibia’s agricultural sector and in particular the meat industry.
“His candid debate over tough issues as a solution-driven persona would be sorely missed. The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, herewith extend its heartfelt condolences to his wife Limmie, children, family and acquaintances,” he said.
Schlettwein said besides having been a member of the Land Reform Advisory Committee, Dr Norval was also up until 2012 the chairperson of the Stampriet Farmers Association.
“Dr Norval, who was a qualified veterinarian by profession, was undoubtedly a persona of great repute and integrity,” he said.
Noval served the Meat Board of Namibia in various capacities for many years. He also served as chairperson of the Meat Committee, known as the Farm Assured Namibian Meat Scheme (FAN). He was the substitute chairperson and vice chairperson of the Animal Health Committee, since 2014.
He died of a suspected heart attack on 11 January 2021 on his farm Liabettus at Stampriet.