Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Anna Shinana
Published on 2024-03-14 10:50:52
More than 300 farmers in the Ohangwena region were the recipients of garden tools and small-scale irrigation systems worth N$2.2 million in a donation ceremony held on Wednesday. Additionally, the //Kharas, Zambezi, and Kavango West regions each will also receive N$2.2 million for similar agricultural assistance projects. These initiatives, supported by the government of Japan and implemented by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, are aimed at combatting food insecurity in Namibia.
Qingyun Diao, the FAO representative, expressed the organization’s dedication to supporting the Namibian government through this donation. She emphasized that the tools and systems provided will enable farmers in the Ohangwena region to enhance their agricultural practices, withstand the impact of drought, and increase the production of nutritious food. The ultimate goal of the initiative is to build resilience in the Ohangwena region by investing in the future of agriculture and empowering farmers to create a sustainable and food-secure nation.
To qualify as beneficiaries, individuals had to be full-time farmers with existing agricultural projects in place. This requirement ensures that the resources provided can be effectively utilized to improve farming practices and contribute to food security in the region.
The donation ceremony marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between FAO, the Namibian government, and the Japanese government in addressing food insecurity and promoting sustainable agriculture practices. By equipping farmers with the necessary tools and resources, the initiative seeks to create a positive impact on the agricultural sector and enhance the livelihoods of farmers in Namibia.
In addition to the distribution of garden tools and irrigation systems, the FAO has been actively engaged in providing training and capacity-building programs for farmers to enhance their skills and knowledge in sustainable agriculture practices. These efforts are further supported by ongoing projects and initiatives aimed at promoting food security, sustainable land management, and climate resilience in the agriculture sector.
The support provided by the FAO and the government of Japan underscores their commitment to fostering agricultural development and food security in Namibia. By working in partnership with local communities and government institutions, these initiatives aim to address the root causes of food insecurity and build resilience in the face of climate change and other challenges.
Overall, the donation of garden tools and irrigation systems to farmers in the Ohangwena region and other regions in Namibia represents a step towards achieving food security, sustainable agriculture, and economic empowerment for rural communities. Through continued collaboration and investment in agriculture, Namibia can build a more resilient and food-secure future for all its citizens.
Read the original article on The Namibian
