Windhoek: The government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform (MAFWLR), has allocated N$40 million to purchase locally produced grain from millers and farmers facing market challenges. This initiative follows a significant harvest last season.

According to Namibia Press Agency, MAFWLR Acting Executive Director (ED) Petrus-Canisius Nangolo announced this development in a statement, highlighting concerns raised by farmers about limited market access for their harvested grain. Several farmers have reported that their produce remains in storage as they await access to markets, with prolonged storage increasing the risk of deterioration and financial losses.

Nangolo acknowledged that the N$40 million might not be sufficient to procure all the grain currently held by farmers. He stated that this funding serves as an initial, provisional intervention to address the immediate market challenges facing farmers. The ministry is committed to securing additional funding to expand the procurement program.

The funds have been channelled through the Agro-Marketing and Trade Agency (AMTA), which will oversee the procurement process and engage farmers regarding the requirements and procedures for purchasing the grain. Given the urgency and the extended wait farmers have faced for market access, the ministry has urged AMTA to expedite the processes and engage farmers without further delay.

This intervention is part of the government's broader efforts to strengthen domestic agricultural markets, support local production, and enhance national food security by ensuring that locally produced food has meaningful opportunities to enter the market.

Additionally, Nangolo announced the extension of the application dates for purchasing agricultural equipment. Originally set to end on 30 September 2026, the deadline has been moved to 16 October 2026.