Windhoek: The Ministry of Agriculture and the National Planning Commission (NPC) on Wednesday received nine specialised livestock transport vehicles from the European Union (EU) to strengthen veterinary services in Namibia's Northern Communal Areas.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the fleet, valued at approximately N. dollars 10 million and financed under the EU's 11th European Development Fund, comprises eight Toyota Land Cruiser vehicles and one Hino Motors truck, all fitted with trailers and configured for rugged terrain. The vehicles will be deployed to expand mobility for veterinary teams, enabling faster disease surveillance, sample collection, vaccination campaigns, and the transportation of essential equipment such as mobile laboratories and quarantine materials.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture Ruth Masake received the donation and in her statement, shared with Nampa, said the investment will significantly enhance animal health management and market participation for communal farmers. 'By strengthening mobility for our veterinary teams, these vehicles allow us to detect disease faster, respond quicker and provide consistent support to farmers. They are a direct investment in animal health, food security and better incomes for communities in the NCAs,' she said. Masake further said the ministry is committed to ensuring that the vehicles are properly managed and maintained to deliver sustained benefits to the agricultural sector.

NPC Director General, Kaire Mbuende, said the handover demonstrates how development cooperation translates into tangible results. 'Through strong coordination between government and our European partners, we are delivering infrastructure and tools that will improve market readiness, compliance and economic participation,' he said.

EU Ambassador to Namibia Ana Beatriz Martins said the initiative reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Namibia's livestock sector. 'Today, we turn partnership into action. With these vehicles, the European Union is helping Namibia raise standards, curb livestock disease and expand access to markets, ensuring that communal farmers can compete, grow and benefit from regional and international trade,' she said. Martins said the handover forms part of the broader Livestock Support Programme aimed at reinforcing infrastructure, technical capacity, and value chain development across northern regions. Future complementary investments include a modern feedlot at Etunda, upgrades to the Opuwo abattoir, and strengthened quarantine capacity at Omutambo Maowe, Martins noted.