Nkurenkuru: Kapako Constituency Councillor Agustinus, Linyando Kupembona, on Friday warned that frontline agricultural support is failing farmers during Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform Ruth Masake's visit to agricultural projects in Nkurenkuru.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Councillor Kupembona highlighted the challenges faced by farmers, citing dilapidated facilities, a lack of animal health medicines at Ruuga, and high input costs that compel small-scale farmers to travel long distances. He expressed concern over the underutilisation of land at the Sikondo green scheme and called for practical support to ensure that inland farmers are not restricted to farming only after the rainy season.
During the same visit, Mpungu Constituency Councillor Titus Shiudifonya addressed issues related to service decentralisation and delayed projects. Shiudifonya expressed dissatisfaction with the current administrative arrangements, noting that the deputy director responsible for rural water supply is based in Rundu, making the region feel like an extension rather than a distinct entity. He called for clarity on the long-overdue zone green scheme and highlighted transport shortages and revenue collection processes that negatively impact agricultural activities.
In response, Deputy Minister Masake acknowledged the concerns raised and outlined immediate interventions. She encouraged the region to leverage its natural resources, suggesting rice production along the river and expanded aquaculture. Masake also proposed free training through the ministry and supported exploring agro-processing opportunities, particularly tomato processing. She urged farmers to form cooperatives for consistent supply.
Masake confirmed the delegation of subsidies for ploughing, seed, and fertiliser to regional councils to expedite work. She pledged to review non-functional agricultural development centres and staffing structures to ensure regional self-sufficiency. Regarding the Zone green scheme, Masake promised to verify land status and address encroachment issues. On revenue collection, she suggested appointing sub-receivers to mitigate risks associated with moving cash handlers.
The meeting concluded with commitments to follow up on green scheme land, rehabilitate service points, and mobilise youth and cooperatives to boost production in Kavango West.