The Integrated Food Security Organisation warns that around 1.6 million Namibians may face food insecurity between now and March 2025. The El Niño climate phenomenon, impacting crop production, livestock pastures, and water resources, is seen as a major driver of this crisis.

Speaking at a World Food Day event in Gobabis, Omaheke Governor Pijoo Nganate, on behalf of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform Minister Calle Schlettwein, highlighted the government's efforts under the Harambee Prosperity Plan II to mitigate the situation. Initiatives such as food banks, school feeding programs, and domestic food production outreach aim to improve food access. However, Nganate emphasized that climate change continues to severely threaten agricultural production, exacerbating economic inequalities and limiting food access.

"In Omaheke, known for its livestock farming, prolonged droughts have diminished pasture, threatening both livelihoods and food security. Without sufficient water and productive land, the right to food becomes a distant dream for many of our citizens," Nganate said.

Malnutrition remains a critical issue across Namibia, particularly affecting vulnerable populations.

Dr. Qingyum Diao, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) representative in Namibia, stressed that tackling hunger and malnutrition requires more than increasing food production.

"The key is transforming agrifood systems to become more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable," Diao said. He pointed to FAO’s efforts to promote climate-smart agriculture, including conservation agriculture, which helps farmers maintain crop yields even during droughts.

As part of the World Food Day celebrations, FAO provided tools and implements to local farmers, supporting efforts to build more sustainable agricultural practices.