The National Planning Commission and the European Union (EU) delegation officially handed over five 30-tonne trucks to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform (MAWFLR) to boost the livestock value chain in Namibia’s Northern Communal Areas. 

Speaking at the Livestock Support Programme ceremony on Friday in Windhoek, Agriculture Deputy Minister Ruth Masake said the vehicles will be allocated to five government abattoirs located in the most affected regions to curb challenges such as the relocation of livestock across long distances. 

The heavy-duty IVECO Astra trucks, specifically designed for livestock transportation, feature detachable trailers that offer ample space for animals. 

The EU Ambassador to Namibia, Ana Beatrice Martins, spoke of how this initiative will benefit small-scale farmers in communal areas by ensuring better market access, lower transport costs, improved animal welfare, and stronger rural economies.

"Funded by the EU under the 11th European Development Fund, these trucks represent a N$20.68 million investment. That's part of a much bigger picture – our ongoing support for sustainable agriculture, food systems, and resilient rural communities," said Martins.

The trucks are designed with safety features and are repurposed to ensure durability even on rocky and uneven roads.

Each truck is marked with a unique registration number, which is easily traceable and clearly recognised as a Ministry of Agriculture asset.