Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Anna Shinana
Published on 2024-03-14 15:00:00
Ohangwena Governor Sebastian Ndeitunga highlighted the importance of innovative approaches to food production and the fight against hunger in the region. Speaking during the handover of gardening tools and small-scale irrigation systems in Ohangwena, Ndeitunga emphasized the need to break traditional barriers to ensure the production of an adequate and quality food supply for both the regional and national levels.
Ndeitunga acknowledged the challenges posed by environmental issues, particularly climate change, which have made food production a difficult task. He cited an example of a dry spell that occurred after initially promising rains, resulting in crops drying up in the fields. This unpredictability emphasizes the need for new strategies to overcome obstacles in food production.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) sub-regional coordinator, Patrice Talla, addressed the recurring impact of El Niño in the SADC region, which significantly affects food security. El Niño disrupts weather patterns, leading to extreme conditions such as prolonged droughts and intense heatwaves. Namibia, with its arid and semi-arid regions, is particularly vulnerable to these disruptions.
Talla highlighted the FAO’s efforts to address these challenges through transformative approaches to agri-food systems. The traditional methods are no longer sufficient to ensure food security in the face of a changing climate. The FAO advocates for a holistic transformation of agri-food systems, incorporating smart approaches that are essential for resilient and sustainable outcomes.
Overall, the message from Ndeitunga and Talla underscores the urgency of adopting innovative and sustainable practices in food production to combat hunger and ensure food security in the region. While challenges persist, there is a recognition of the need for change and adaptation to overcome these obstacles.
In conclusion, the collaboration between government officials, organizations like the FAO, and local communities is crucial in implementing effective strategies for food production. By embracing new approaches and technologies, the region can work towards a more resilient and sustainable food system that can withstand the impacts of climate change and ensure a consistent supply of quality food for its residents.
Read the original article on The Namibian
