Minister of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, Carl Schlettwein, has highlighted that the division between the commercial, disease-free livestock sector south of the red line and the communal farming sector in the northern part of the country, where diseases still prevail, is a lingering consequence of the colonial divide and rule strategy.

Schlettwein made this remark during the announcement of the new Meat Board, expressing the importance of recognising and rectifying the historical inequalities and divisions that persist in the livestock sector.
 

Schlettwein says this is one of the vocal points that the ten-member Meat Board must take on to equalise market opportunities for farmers countrywide.

Recognising the significant role of livestock production, Schlettwein highlighted that Namibia has been a surplus producer of cattle and that the export trade has contributed to the creation of substantial wealth before and after independence.

He emphasised the need to ensure that the livestock sector continues to produce surpluses of high quality and reliable quantity and fetches the best prices for producers in both domestic and international markets.

The export trade in cattle has played a vital role in generating substantial wealth before and after independence.

In light of this, Minister Schlettwein emphasised the importance of the newly appointed Meat Board in ensuring the flourishing of the livestock sector.

The board has a crucial responsibility to oversee grading and price control measures, ensuring that the export markets worldwide remain engaged and supportive.

Schlettwein revealed that there are plans to propose an amendment to the Meat Industry Act in Parliament.

The aim of this amendment is to expand the functions of the current meat board to encompass a wider range of meat products, including poultry and other related items.
The board members expressed their optimism and readiness to fulfil their new roles and responsibilities.