Rundu: Farm Manager of the Vhungu Vhungu Green Scheme in the Kavango East Region, Floris Smith, has highlighted the farm’s ongoing struggles with inadequate storage facilities despite effective management. This issue, among others, was brought to light during a visit by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources, which is currently conducting an oversight mission in the region from 18 to 20 August 2025.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Smith expressed his concern, particularly regarding the recent acquisition of a new combine harvester. While the harvester is a welcome addition, he explained that without proper storage facilities, such as silos, the farm is unable to store harvested wheat effectively. This limitation hinders the farm’s ability to engage in full double-crop production.

Smith stated that with adequate storage, the farm could harvest a full season of 300 hectares of maize and then replant wheat. Presently, the farm has 169 hectares of wheat, planted using a new wheat planter received in 2024, with an expected yield of 845 tonnes. However, the lack of storage facilities poses a significant challenge.

In response to these concerns, committee chairperson Paulus Mbangu recognized the storage issue as part of a broader regional challenge. He mentioned plans to engage with the ministry to set targets for silo construction across the country, with a proposal to build silos with a capacity of 700 tonnes over the next three years. Mbangu also noted that the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform has not adequately addressed this issue.

Smith further explained that the existing silos in Rundu prioritize small-scale farmers and do not accommodate wheat, forcing him to transport the wheat to Katima Mulilo in the Zambezi Region for storage.