Given the above-average rainfall that has been experienced in the Omaheke Region, it is expected that the farming communities will have a bumper harvest and rear good quality livestock while contributing meaningfully to the country's economy.
This was revealed by the Chief Agricultural Scientist, Dr. Jorry Kaurivi, in an exclusive interview with the nbc News team.
The Chief Agricultural Scientific Officer in the Ministry of Agriculture , Fisheries , Water and Land Reform pointed out that the region will account for a good harvest of crops as more than 800 hectares of land in communal areas were successfully prepared for crop production.
Dr. Jorry Kaurivi added that grazing land is also at its peak with vegetation recovering, which will allow livestock to multiply in numbers while making good strides into local markets.
He also reminded the farming communities to diversify the sector, as this will aid them greatly in profitability from various agricultural-related aspects.
"For the first time we are expecting close to or over 800 hectares in Omaheke to be in production; normally we are at 500, but now we are expecting 800 for the first time. Therefore, the production of cowpeas and maize is everywhere you go; they are cultivated in good numbers, meaning we are expecting a bumper harvest in the Omaheke Region."
A lecturer at the University of Namibia in the Department of Food Science and Systems, Marjorie Kandjou, reminded the farmers to work on their value addition aspects, more specifically on dairy products.
Kandjou added that the components of hygiene and safety are of paramount importance when dealing with dairy products.
"In rural areas, people are producing food every day, so if you don't add value to your products , products can spoil easily. So with value addition, you are able to add more value; you can create diversity and make more profit for yourself. This will make you catch a better price compared to the normal way. Agriculture is the backbone. Agriculture is life. As young people, instead of just being around waiting for the government, let's engage. Some people are flocking to towns, but there are opportunities here where you can make a garden for yourself and learn to add value to your produce. Then you can make money for yourself rather than waiting for the government.
Dr. Kaurivi also advises communal farmers to attend farmers information sessions being held in their areas, as this helps them to up their game.
"It is important to have these days partly because it's for the grassroots level. Unlike having a bigger audience, either at Gobabis or Talismans here at the village, it shows that you have selected a group that is really interested in knowing that it is better to focus on their specific need, which is very specific."