Baku: The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform (MAFWL) officially launched the revised National Resettlement Policy for 2023-2033 on Friday, marking a significant step toward economic and social justice. The policy, approved by Cabinet in 2023, represents a critical advancement in Namibia's land reform programme.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the revised policy replaces the 2001 version, which faced challenges such as ineffective implementation and low agricultural productivity. Its primary objective is to rectify historical inequalities through equitable land distribution and to enhance the quality of life for previously disadvantaged, landless Namibians. Additionally, the policy seeks to balance social equity with economic productivity, ensuring that resettled land contributes significantly to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
During the launch, MAFWL Minister Inge Zaamwani emphasised that the national resettlement programme is essential for addressing historical injustices while promoting social justice, national reconciliation, and inclusive development. She remarked that land reform is an ongoing process that must adapt to changing national realities. 'The 2001 National Resettlement Policy served as a baseline policy for our national journey to ensure equitable distribution of acquired agricultural land. However, over the years, valuable lessons have emerged from implementing our land reform programme,' she said.
She continued, 'We have also witnessed new challenges, including climate change, increasing pressure on natural resources, growing demand for land, youth unemployment, and the need to improve agricultural productivity. These realities have also underscored the need to review and strengthen our approach to land reform.' Zaamwani stated that the revised policy will directly address changing circumstances, noting that it serves as a strategic framework for the government and key stakeholders to tackle efficiency, equity, transparency, tenure security, and agricultural production as essential components of progress and inclusivity.
'The policy shifts our focus to include the creation of productive and sustainable farming enterprises that contribute meaningfully to Namibia's economic development,' she stated. The minister emphasised the need for better coordination among government agencies, regional bodies, financial institutions, traditional authorities, development partners, and farmers' organisations, asserting that the policy will succeed only if all stakeholders collaborate effectively.
She stated that the revised policy aligns with the government's vision of a resettlement programme that is demand-driven, evidence-based, transparent, and aimed at transforming land into a catalyst for economic empowerment, social cohesion, and national development, in accordance with Namibia's sixth National Development Plan.