In response to mounting concerns over the state of the livestock sector in the country, particularly in the Northern Communal Areas (NCA), the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Economics and Public Administration has initiated a series of oversight visits. 

The visits are scheduled to take place from the 12th to the 24th of this month.

The committee will investigate the condition of quarantine farms, camps, facilities, and abattoirs in the NCAs and propose actionable recommendations.

Namibia boasts a thriving livestock sector, vital for both commercial and small-scale farmers. 

However, challenges such as disease control measures such as the Veterinary Cordon Fence have restricted livestock farmers behind the NCAs' access to markets.

A petition submitted by Lisha Empowerment and Development Organisation underscored the urgent need to revitalise the livestock market in NCAs, prompting parliamentary intervention.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform has acknowledged the challenges and implemented various initiatives to address them.

These include infrastructure renovations and construction projects across multiple regions.

The oversight visits seek to verify the condition of facilities, assess the livestock market in NCAs, and engage stakeholders to understand the sector's challenges and opportunities.

It will compile a comprehensive report with actionable recommendations to improve market access for NCA farmers and enhance the livestock sector's viability.

Key stakeholders, including government officials, farmer unions, traditional leaders, and community-based organisations, will participate in consultations during the oversight visits.

The visits will be conducted in two groups, covering different regions, and will involve presentations, discussions, and site visits.