WINDHOEK, Nov. 6 (Xinhua) -- Namibia is prioritizing genetic diversity to enhance food security, improve productivity, and build resilience against climate change as the country accelerates agricultural transformation, an official said Thursday.
Speaking at the Bank Windhoek Agricultural Series 2025, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Land Reform Inge Zaamwani said genetic diversity is key to developing drought-tolerant crops, disease-resistant livestock, and competitive agricultural products -- priorities aligned with the country's Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6).
"Genetic diversity is not a luxury, it is a necessity," she said, adding that investment in breeding, seed systems, and improved livestock production will help strengthen Namibia's agri-food system.
Zaamwani noted that several government programs, including the Namibia Agricultural Mechanisation and Seed Improvement Project, the Conservation Agriculture Program, and the Livestock Support Program, are helping farmers improve productivity through access to certified seed, mechanization, climate-smart practices, and better market opportunities.
She also highlighted efforts to expand irrigation infrastructure to reduce reliance on rain-fed agriculture and raise yields, while calling for stronger public-private partnerships to boost investment in research, farmer training, and value chain development.
According to Zaamwani, the agricultural sector faces mounting pressure from climate variability and shifting market demands, underscoring the need for deeper collaboration with financial institutions, breeders, seed companies, and research organizations to ensure sustainable growth.
The minister said the government has developed the Strategy for the Transformation of the Agri-Food Sector, which identifies priority investment areas and will inform the agriculture chapter of the upcoming NDP6. The strategy aims to boost production capacity, stimulate private investment, and advance Namibia's pursuit of food sovereignty.
Zaamwani urged farmers, researchers, agribusinesses, and financiers to "move from dialogue to delivery" to ensure agriculture becomes a stronger driver of employment and economic growth.
