Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Tutaleni Pinehas
Published on 2024-03-29 06:00:00
The Ministry of Agriculture is actively promoting the use of technology in agriculture as a way to address the challenges posed by climate change and improve farming practices nationwide. This initiative is aimed at enhancing resilience, sustainability, and productivity within the agricultural industry.
According to Jona Musheko, the Public Relations Officer at the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, the ministry has made significant investments in cutting-edge agricultural technologies and equipment as part of programs like the Cereal Value Chain Development Programme and the Dry Land Crop Production Programme. Farmers now have access to equipment such as tractors, walking tractors, drip irrigation systems, and poultry equipment, which help reduce input costs and provide mechanized services for various farming activities.
These technological interventions enable farmers to engage in timely plowing, effective harvesting, and improved animal management, ultimately increasing food production and enhancing profitability. The ministry collaborates with the Directorate of Agricultural Research and Development, universities, and technology firms to develop livestock and crop varieties that are well-suited to regional conditions and integrate state-of-the-art technologies into farming practices.
Recognizing the digital gap in rural areas, the ministry has implemented communication strategies to disseminate knowledge about agricultural technologies through conventional media channels and agricultural development centers in communities. This approach aims to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that farmers in remote areas have access to technological advancements and can benefit from them.
Moreover, the ministry is promoting the use of renewable energy sources in agricultural operations to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and support environmental sustainability. The adoption of solar energy in green initiatives exemplifies the ministry’s commitment to utilizing sustainable energy sources and minimizing the carbon footprint of agricultural activities.
There is a rigorous monitoring and evaluation process at both regional and national levels to assess the impact of technology adoption on farmer livelihoods, food security, and environmental sustainability. Farmers like Benjamin Kondjeni, who have embraced agricultural technology, have diversified their farming activities and improved their efficiency through the use of drones for farm surveillance and animal tracking.
Kondjeni emphasized the importance of staying abreast of technological advancements to adapt to the changing landscape of agriculture. As the sector continues to evolve, farmers must embrace innovation and leverage technology to optimize their operations and enhance productivity.
Overall, the Ministry of Agriculture’s focus on promoting technology adoption in agriculture is a crucial step towards modernizing the sector, increasing food production, and ensuring the sustainability of farming practices in the face of climate change. By harnessing the power of technology, farmers can overcome challenges, improve efficiency, and contribute to a more resilient and productive agricultural industry in Namibia.
Read the original article on The Namibian
