The Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, Ruthy Masake, has called for a shift from exporting raw agricultural commodities domestically to create jobs. 

She made the remarks during her visit to the Namibia Grape Company as part of a familiarisation visit to agricultural projects in the ||Kharas Region. 

The state-owned agricultural company currently cultivates table grapes on about 500 hectares of land. 

It employs 258 permanent workers. 

Close to 2,000 seasonal workers are expected to be hired for the grape vineyards' pruning season. 

"It is high time we shouldn't only export or import the grapes themselves; we must try to add value to them. So, we maximise whatever we can get from the grapes. This way we will increase trade. And then I am happy with the company because they are now using our port for export instead of relying on South Africa. So, if South African borders are closed, they can still access markets globally using our port, which is a very key aspect of using our ports." 

The deputy minister also encouraged young people to become actively involved in food production projects. 

Masake also visited the Neckartal Dam. 

"This building reminds and tells me that Namibia is ready to serve its people. Imagine buildings such as this strong infrastructure in order to supply enough water to the Republic of Namibia. So, it tells a lot how caring Namibia is to its people. So should it be that we unlock this water, Namibia will never struggle with water. So, it is a matter of plans, communication and coordination.

She has invited the public for an environmental and social impact assessment of the much-awaited Neckartal Dam irrigation phase two project community consultations, scheduled for 23 June.