The Governor of Omaheke has urged farmers in the region to take advantage of the good rains and increase their crop production for future use.
Pijoo Nganate reported that the region has received over 400 millimeters of rainfall and suggested that areas like Aminuis and Epukiro RC should establish greenhouses with assistance from the relevant ministry.
"We need silos to store excess grain. In terms of food production and sufficiency, we are moving toward my vision of a self-sustaining region that can restore its dignity and no longer has to rely on food from other areas."
Through his office, he will also advocate for a restocking program, as many farmers have lost livestock due to drought.
"Restocking is crucial; some kraals have completely shut down, particularly in the Omaheke region. This issue began not only with the drought but also with COVID-19. Many kraals have closed, and numerous people have lost their livelihoods. Drought has exacerbated the situation, and I would like to engage our new Minister of Agriculture and our new President to discuss how we can support restocking on communal land."
Epukiro Councillor Packy Pakarae noted that thanks to the recent rainfall, most crop farmers can expect a good harvest.
"What we need to do is continuously inform farmers to adapt their farming practices. Rainfall has become unpredictable; this year, some villages have received 250 millimeters, while others have exceeded 350 millimeters."
A seasonal farmer from Otjijarua, Akim Ngupahua, mentioned that although the government provided ploughing equipment on time, the rain arrived too late for their crops.
"Reports suggest that Omaheke is not a crop-producing region, but with government assistance in tractors, we are making progress. We must work hard, and we hope for longer rains this year, especially for those who planted late."
Ngupahua also encouraged fellow farmers to do their part, emphasizing that the government alone can not address all challenges.