Oshikoto: Governor Sacky Kathindi has described a thriving rice field in Oniiwe A village as more than an agricultural site but a symbol of vision, determination, and the future of food security for the region and Namibia at large. During his visit to the village in the Onayena Constituency on Monday, Kathindi commended the hardworking farmers and community members for their dedication. He praised the initiative as proof that agriculture can drive development and become a powerful engine for employment creation, poverty reduction, and self-reliance.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Kathindi emphasised the strategic importance of agriculture. "Agriculture is not just about farming. Agriculture is life. It feeds nations, builds economies, and restores dignity to communities. A nation that cannot feed itself can never truly claim economic independence," he said. He challenged the long-standing reliance on food imports despite abundant fertile land and capable people.
The governor expressed confidence in the region's potential of becoming one of the country's food baskets and a key contributor to national food security. He urged young people especially to see agriculture as a viable business opportunity and pathway to prosperity. "This rice field sends a strong message: Oshikoto Region is ready to contribute meaningfully to national food production," Kathindi stated.
He encouraged communities to scale up production of rice, mahangu, vegetables, poultry, and other products to create jobs, stimulate local economies, and strengthen household incomes. Kathindi called on the youth to embrace modern, innovative farming methods. He reaffirmed the regional leadership's commitment to productivity, climate resilience, and rural development in line with the eighth administration's vision under President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, with strong emphasis on economic empowerment, food security, and sustainable development and agriculture at the centre of the developmental agenda.
He maintained that as a leadership, they remain committed to engaging stakeholders to ensure farmers receive support in training, water infrastructure, access to markets, and agricultural inputs. "The green fields we see here today are symbols of hope, of opportunity, and of a better tomorrow. I encourage all farmers to remain committed despite challenges such as drought and limited resources. Success comes through persistence, unity, and hard work," he said.