A group of farmers gathered at Farm Ninette in the Omaheke Region over the weekend to discuss the importance of pig farming, effective management, and potential markets. 

Verinao Tjijombo has been farming with pigs for almost a year and owns over 100 of them. 

The farmer explained that it has, however, been challenging.

"Honestly, we decided, 'Let's try something new which is not as overcrowded as the beef industry and the rest of the markets,' but it is a challenging industry, whereby especially the feeds have had prices skyrocketing like extremely, and maintenance-wise it is not easy, but production-wise there isn't something like I have seen before."

Another farmer, Puna Kazapua, says that farmers' information sessions are vital as they equip them with relevant and timely information.

"Sometimes we share knowledge among each other without really looking for industry experts or people that are within the industry itself to add to the knowledge we have, or sometimes give more information that we don't have. Another point I make is that events or days like this are very important for youth empowerment."

Omaheke Governor Pijoo Nganate is optimistic that regular mentorship, capacity building and training will help improve production.

"Pig production can become another pillar of growth in Omaheke, and I believe that this region has the potential to lead the way. Training of such nature aligns with our NDP6, which emphasises food security, job creation, and youth empowerment. " What we are doing here is not just training; it is the implementation of national priorities and forms part of the bigger picture of building a resilient Namibia for the young people here."

Member of Parliament Ferdinand Hengombe applauded the young people who have shown dedication during the pig production training.

The 2018 statistics indicate that Namibia has approximately 107,000 pigs, and more than 50% of these pigs are found in the communal areas of northern Namibia.