Zambezi region: Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, Ruthy Masake, emphasized the critical role of agriculture in sustaining food production and rural livelihoods in Namibia. Speaking to farmers in the Zambezi Region, Masake reinforced the government's commitment to fostering an environment conducive to agricultural growth, though she highlighted that the sector's success depends on the dedication and resilience of the farmers themselves.According to Namibia Press Agency, Masake stressed the importance of collaboration in enhancing agricultural productivity and food security. She outlined that engagements with farmers are crucial for strengthening partnerships and aligning efforts towards shared goals. These interactions provide the ministry with valuable insights into the farmers' circumstances, enabling better support through understanding their challenges and opportunities.Masake highlighted the ministry's unwavering commitment to bolstering food security, improving rural l ivelihoods, creating jobs, and boosting agricultural productivity. She detailed ongoing support to farmers, including subsidized assistance for ploughing, land preparation, planting, weeding, pesticide spraying, and maize relocation during floods, which have helped mitigate post-harvest losses and ensure food sufficiency even in adverse conditions.In the Zambezi Region, Masake noted that the ministry supports several agricultural initiatives. These include the horticulture support programme, the poultry value chain development programme, the dryland crop production programme, the bull, ram, and buck scheme, and the comprehensive conservation agriculture programme. Together, these programs aim to enhance agricultural production, promote climate resilience, improve livestock genetics, and create sustainable income opportunities for farmers.Masake urged farmers to fully utilize the available schemes and programmes. During the engagement, farmers expressed concerns over bureaucratic hurdles, pricing, and mark et access issues. Masake assured them of ongoing consultations and collective efforts to address these challenges.