The implementation date for the livestock drought programme has been brought forward to July 1, 2023, instead of the initial October 1.

Drought relief assistance and livestock support programmes for thousands of vulnerable and affected communities and farmers in the Otjozondjupa Region will be distributed from the beginning of October until June 2024.

There is a shortfall of about N$600 million to implement the Namibian government's drought relief programme.

Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila says the Disaster Risk Fund under her office only has about N$200 million, while the whole programme needs funding of up to N$800 million.

The Councillor of the Rundu Rural Constituency, Paulus Mbangu, has called on the Office of the Prime Minister to roll out drought relief in the drought-stricken Kavango East Region.

A team of officials from the office of the Prime Minister and Aminuis Councillor concluded a two-day rapid assessment of the possible looming drought in the Omaheke Region.

The assessment is also expected to come up with a comprehensive report.

A severe drought is looming in the Otamanzi Constituency of the Omusati Region due to the poor rainfall received in the area this year.

The silos of many subsistence farmers are empty, and their only hope is drought-relief food for both humans and animals.

The ongoing government drought relief program in the Kunene, Erongo, and Omusati regions was extended on Tuesday to May 2024 by a Cabinet decision.

The Otjombinde Farmers Association's chairperson has called on the government and key partners in the agriculture sector to start preparations for the looming drought that is set to affect the farming community.

Three of the four northern regions are preparing for another possible severe drought due to poor rainfall.

It is against that background that the Regional Governors of Oshana, Omusati and Oshikoto along with other stakeholders, assessed water levels in the Etaka- Uuvudhiya water canal.

Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila says the government is prepared for the imminent drought due to the poor rainfall received this rainy season.