President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said the Omaheke Region is a strategic hub for cattle farming and serves as a major economic driver for both the local economy and Namibia's trading relations within markets abroad.

Dr Nandi-Ndaitwah, who was speaking during an engagement with farmers in the region, said commercial farmers have a role to play in ensuring the diversification of production and expansion of domestic value addition. 

The head of state said Namibia is well-known as one of the leading producers and exporters of beef in the international market because of its natural cattle feeding practices, which ensure the high quality of the beef.

Namibia's beef has earned acceptance in international markets such as the USA, the European Union, and China. 

"The government is engaging in bilateral discussions to secure and expand access to international beef markets. The efforts aim to enable commercial farmers to increase their earnings from cattle farming and contribute to improving the standards of living for our people. The government also intends to establish industries in all 14 regions of the country, depending on the sectoral strengths of each region, to enhance value addition, reduce food waste, and contribute to the country's food basket."

The government, said Dr. Nandi-Ndaitwah, is also committed to establishing feedlots to improve the nutritional value of beef and meat quality.

The president also indicated to the farmers that the government is aware of various challenges faced by the farmers, such as the devastating impact on livestock survival, persistent water scarcity, and livestock theft.

She assured farmers that the government has not been idle, but it has implemented various measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as allocating fodder feedings to affected farmers during periods of drought and drilling boreholes to address water scarcity affecting both livestock and human needs.

"I want to assure you that the government welcomes collaboration with the private sector, including commercial farmers, on developing strategies to feed the Namibian nation while growing the economy. To this end, I wish to express my appreciation to all our Namibian farmers who continue to hold hands and work together to support our national development agenda. We must be determined to move forward together and ensure that no one is left behind in the drive towards national development and national unity."

Dr. Nandi-Ndaitwah also urged farmers to be cautious of the wildfires and join hands in combating such disasters when they occur.

The engagement was aimed at discussing issues of development, national food security and the strengthening of the agricultural sector.