Titus Sitentu, the Operational Manager for the Rundu Fresh Produce Business Hub at the Agro Marketing and Trade Agency (AMTA), asserts that access to markets for farmers in the Zambezi Region is not a concern, as AMTA actively finds markets for them.

Sitentu explains that AMTA, through the Rundu hub, has established contractual agreements with catering companies that supply food to schools and hospitals in the Zambezi and Kavango East regions.

Regarding pricing, Sitentu emphasizes that farmers and other stakeholders must reach an agreement. However, he notes that the price of produce is influenced by various factors. 

He elaborates, “Price is determined by market forces of supply and demand. For instance, when there is an abundance of pumpkins and butternuts, the selling price of butternuts will differ from that of pumpkins in April if farmers are not producing other crops.”

Sitentu clarifies that AMTA will not undercharge farmers.

Patrick Lubanda, a representative of the Namibia Agronomic Board, advises crop farmers to register with the Agency's board for free, warning that non-registration could put them at a disadvantage. He states, “If we identify a farmer selling without registration, we have the right to confiscate and destroy the product. If health inspectors certify that the product is fit for human consumption, we can donate it to vulnerable groups in our community.”

Lubanda encourages farmers to increase their production of onions, potatoes, cabbages, beetroot, and carrots.