Windhoek: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has announced the Namibian government's ambitious goal to slash food imports by 80 per cent by 2030. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to bolster the country's agricultural sector, enhance local production, and protect livestock health to sustain valuable export markets.

According to Namibia Press Agency, during her State of the Nation Address, President Nandi-Ndaitwah detailed the progress made in boosting domestic production. Notably, white maize output has more than doubled, rising from 33,000 metric tonnes to 69,541 metric tonnes, now accounting for approximately 31 per cent of the nation's consumption needs. The government is also focusing on strengthening the Green Scheme programme, which has seen maize harvests surpass 6,700 metric tonnes, while wheat production has significantly contributed to national revenue.

The Namibian Correctional Service is increasingly contributing to these efforts by producing crops and livestock valued at N.dollars 22.6 million. The president highlighted that these initiatives are reducing operational costs for the state while moving the country towards greater food self-sufficiency.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasised the importance of the livestock sector, which supports about 70 per cent of the population and provides over 45,000 direct jobs. Namibia's internationally recognised animal health status is crucial for maintaining access to export markets such as the European Union, China, and the United States. To safeguard this status, the government has ramped up disease surveillance and vaccination efforts, including vaccinating 320,000 cattle against foot-and-mouth disease.

In response to outbreaks in neighboring countries, control measures have been implemented, including the declaration of a control area in the //Kharas Region, to preserve Namibia's disease-free status. These measures are pivotal in ensuring the continued global market competitiveness of Namibia's livestock industry.

The president also connected agricultural growth to the potential opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), highlighting Namibia's potential to increase production, add value, and improve market access. To support farmers, the government will continue to provide subsidies on inputs such as seeds and fertilizers, alongside services like ploughing and irrigation.

Nandi-Ndaitwah concluded by asserting that strengthening agriculture is vital for Namibia's economic resilience, job creation, and long-term national development.