national early warning and food information system€¦ · december 2013 – january-february 2014...
TRANSCRIPT
NATIONAL EARLY WARNING
AND
FOOD INFORMATION SYSTEM
Republic of Namibia
AGRICULTURAL INPUTS AND HOUSEHOLD FOOD SECURITY SITUATION REPORT
DECEMBER 2013
HIGHLIGHTS
As it was the case last season, the 2013/2014 cropping season noted a slight delay in the
start of the rainfall season. The normal start of the rain season is usually as from mid
October. At the time of this assessment in November, all the regions have not yet received
productive rains. However, by the end of this assessment and early December, most regions are
reported to have received good showers, enough to trigger cultivation activities.
Inadequate supply and delayed delivery of pearl millet and sorghum seeds from the Seed
Cooperative at Mahenene in the Omusati region were reported in the northern communal
crop producing regions. At the time of this assessment, both subsidy and free seeds for pearl
millet and sorghum have not yet arrived in the regions. It was reported that the Seed Cooperative
in the Omusati region had limited supply of seeds and completed packing and were still waiting
for the directive from the Directorate of Research and Training on the distribution modality.
Pasture conditions from various parts of the regions is said to have deteriorated greatly
and many farmers are reported to have lost some of their livestock due to the prevailing
drought conditions. Many farmers are eagerly waiting for the rain to bring a much needed
relief not only to the improvement of the grazing areas, but also to perk up water availability for
their livestock. Nevertheless, the most likely scenario is that, grazing conditions are expected to
improve as most parts of the regions are reported to have received some good showers lately.
Household food security situation has seemingly weakened and fragile in the regions as
most households have reportedly depleted their last season’s harvest and now dependent
on the market and drought relief foods for food access. According to households interviewed
last season’s harvest only lasted between July and August this year.
Table of Contents 1.0 OVERVIEW .................................................................................................................... 1
2.0 SADC REGIONAL RAINFALL OUTLOOK (OCTOBER 2013 – MARCH 2014)……….2
3.0 SEASONAL RAINFALL OUTLOOK FOR NAMIBIA (OCTOBER 2013 – MARCH 2014)……….6
4.0 FOOD SECURITY SITUATION .................................................................................... 9
6.0 PASTURE AND LIVESTOCK CONDITIONS ........................................................... 11
7.0 CROP PRODUCTION OUTLOOK FOR 2013/2014 CROP SEASON ....................... 12
8.0 SITUATION BY REGION ........................................................................................... 15
10.0 CONCLUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ........................................................ 39
9.0 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ........................................................................................... 40
1. OVERVIEW
The National Early Warning & Food Information Unit (NEWFIU) in collaboration with its cooperating
partners carried out the abovementioned assessment in the six northern communal crop producing
regions1 as from 4
th to 29
th November 2013. The main purpose of this assessment was to assess the
overall agricultural inputs situation at household and regional levels and to find out as to what extend
farmers are prepared for the 2013/14 crop season in terms of land preparation. Moreover the mission
assessed changes in household food security, marketing of the 2012/2013 harvest, livestock and pasture
conditions.
The assessment team visited the Regional Council and was briefed by the Regional Council
Management team who provided information among other things, current household food security as
well as progress on the agricultural season. The assessment team proceeded to the Regional Agricultural
Extension Office where they were briefed by the Chief Agricultural Scientific Officer and Chief
Agricultural Extension Technicians before proceeding to constituencies in each of the northern
communal crop producing regions. Information of each constituency was obtained from both primary
(field observation & farmers’ interviews) and secondary sources (agricultural extension officials,
Regional Councillors, NGOs, Farmer’s Organizations, Namibian Agronomic Board (NAB), Directorate
of Veterinary Services, Local Traders, Traditional Authorities, etc).
During the field visit in each constituency, the teams were brief by Agricultural Extension Technician
who provided an overview of the agricultural situation in view of the upcoming crop season. The
briefing meetings were followed by field visits to three to four randomly selected households in each
constituency for an interview. Interviews were also held with the formal and informal traders working in
the area.
This report however, gives an overview of the agricultural inputs and land preparation during the current
cropping season. The report is aimed at providing the latest information to the government of the
Republic of Namibia, International Organizations and other Institutions involved in humanitarian
operation. Since conditions may change rapidly, please contact the NEWFIU for further information if
required.
1 Crop producing regions included Caprivi, Kavango, Omusati, Ohangwena, Oshana and Oshikoto region
1
2. SADC REGION SEASONAL RAINFALL OUTLOOK (October
2013 – March 2014) The Seventeenth Southern Africa Regional Climate Outlook Forum (SARCOF 17) was held in Harare,
Zimbabwe as from 28-30 August 2013 to present a consensus outlook for the 2013/2014 rainfall season
over the SADC region. Climate scientists from the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC)
National Meteorological and/or Hydrological Services (NMHSs), the SADC Climate Services Centre
(CSC) formulated this outlook. This outlook covers the major rainfall season from October 2013 to
March 2014. The outlooks are presented in overlapping three-monthly periods as follows: October-
November-December (OND); November-December- January (NDJ); December-January-February (DJF)
and January-February-March (JFM) as presented in Fig 1 and Fig 2 below.
This Outlook is relevant only to seasonal (overlapping three-monthly) time-scales and relatively large
areas and may not fully account for all factors that influence regional and national climate variability,
such as local and month-to-month variations (intra-seasonal). Users are strongly advised to contact the
National Meteorological and Hydrological Services for interpretation of this Outlook, additional
guidance and updates.
According to the forecast, most of the SADC region is likely to receive normal to above-normal rainfall
for the period of October – November - December 2013. However, south-westernmost Angola, coastal areas
of Namibia, west coastal South Africa and northernmost Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are more
likely to receive normal to below-normal rainfall, (figure 1 below). In the November-December 2013-
January 2014 period, bulk of the SADC region is likely to receive normal to above-normal rainfall, while the
greater part of DRC, northernmost and south-western Angola and western fringes of Namibia and South
Africa are likely to receive normal to below-normal rainfall, ( see figure 2 below). Bulk of both contiguous SADC and the islands states of Madagascar and Mauritius are likely to receive
normal to above normal rainfall during December 2013 to February 2014, (Figure 3 below). However, south-
western Angola, most of Namibia, western half of Botswana, most of central and western parts of South
Africa and Lesotho are likely to receive above-normal to normal rainfall while the eastern half of Tanzania is
likely to receive normal to below-normal rainfall.
For the period January to March 2014, the bulk of SADC is expected to receive normal to above-normal
rainfall. However, the tongue stretching from eastern coast of northern Mozambique through central parts of
the region extending to the south western central parts of the region are likely to receive above-normal to
normal rainfall, (see figure 4 below).
2
October-November-December 2013
Figure 1: SADC October – November - December 2013 Rainfall Forecast
Zone 1: Northern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
Zone 2: Northern Tanzania.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
Zone 3: Northern Mozambique, southern Tanzania, northern Malawi, northernmost Zambia, bulk
of DRC and north-western half of Angola.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
Zone 4: Central Mozambique, southern Malawi, northern half of Zimbabwe, most of Zambia,
Southern most DRC, south-eastern half of Angola, bulk of Namibia, western half of Botswana,
most of central and western parts of South Africa, western parts of Lesotho.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
Zone 5: Extreme south-western Zambia, Caprivi area, south-easternmost Angola, south-western
half of Zimbabwe, eastern half of Botswana, most of northern South Africa, Swaziland and
southern Mozambique.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
Zone 6: South-westernmost Angola and western coastal areas of Namibia and South Africa.
Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
Zone 7: Western Madagascar.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
Zone 8: Eastern Madagascar.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
Zone 9: Southern Madagascar
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
Zone 10: Mauritius.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
Fig 1: Rainfall forecast for October-December 2013
3
November-December 2013 -January 2014
Zone 1: Bulk of DRC and northernmost Angola.
Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall Zone 2: Northernmost Tanzania.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 3: Northern Mozambique, bulk of Tanzania, northern Malawi, northern and western Zambia, southern
DRC, bulk of Angola, most of Namibia, western half of Botswana, most of central and western parts of
South Africa.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 4: Southern Zambia, southern Malawi, northern half of Zimbabwe and central parts of Mozambique.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 5: Southern half of Zimbabwe, eastern half of Botswana, north and central South Africa, Lesotho,
Swaziland and southern Mozambique.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 6: South-westernmost Angola, western fringes of Namibia and South Africa.
Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall Zone 7: Bulk of Madagascar.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
Zone 8: Southernmost Madagascar.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 9: Mauritius.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
3
4
Figure 2: SADC November -December 2013 to January 2014 Rainfall Forecast
December 2013 – January-February 2014
Fig 3: Rainfall forecast for December 2013-January-February 2014
Zone 1: DRC, Zambia, Malawi, bulk of Angola, most of Zimbabwe, greater part of Mozambique and
western half of Tanzania.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 2: Eastern half of Tanzania.
Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall Zone 3: South-western Angola, most of Namibia, western half of Botswana, most of central and western
parts of South Africa and Lesotho.
Increased chances of above-normal to normal rainfall Zone 4: Southern third of Zimbabwe, eastern half of Botswana, north and central South Africa, eastern
Lesotho, Swaziland and southern Mozambique..
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 5: South-western fringe of Namibia and south-western South Africa.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 6: Western Madagascar.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 7: Eastern Madagascar.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 8: Southernmost Madagascar.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 9: Mauritius.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
5
January-February- March 2014
Fig 4: Rainfall forecast for January-February-March 2014 Zone 1: Bulk of DRC and northernmost Angola.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 2: Northernmost Tanzania.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 3: Northern Mozambique, bulk of Tanzania, northern Malawi, northern and western Zambia, southern
DRC, bulk of Angola, most of Namibia, western half of Botswana, most of central and western parts of
South Africa and western parts of Lesotho.
Increased chances of above-normal to normal rainfall Zone 4: Southern Zambia, southern Malawi, northern half of Zimbabwe and central parts of Mozambique.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
Zone 5: Southern half of Zimbabwe, eastern half of Botswana, north and central South Africa, eastern
Lesotho, Swaziland and southern Mozambique.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 6: South-westernmost Angola, western fringes of Namibia and South Africa.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 7: Bulk of Madagascar.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 8: Southernmost Madagascar.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 9: Mauritius.
Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
6
3. SEASONAL RAINFALL OUTLOOK FOR NAMIBIA (October 2013 –
March 2014)
According to the Meteorological Services of Namibia the rainfall outlook for the period of October to
December 2013 is divided in three regions (fig 3). Region I and III are expected to receive normal to below-
normal rainfall while region II on the other hand is expected to receive normal to above-normal rainfall.
OUTLOOK NORMAL
Figure 5: October to December 2012 Rainfall Forecast
Zone I: Higher likelihood of Below-Normal to Normal Rainfall.
Zone II: Higher likelihood of Normal to Above-Normal Rainfall.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013 –JANUARY 2014 (NDJ)
OUTLOOK NORMAL
Figure 6: November - December 2013 Rainfall Forecast
Zone I: Higher likelihood of Normal to Below-Normal Rainfall.
Zone II: Higher likelihood of Normal to Above-Normal Rainfall.
7
DECEMBER 2013 - JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 (DJF)
OUTLOOK NORMAL
Figure 7: December 2013 – January – February 2014 Rainfall Forecast
Higher likelihood of Above to Normal Rainfall throughout the country.
JANUARY-FEBRUARY-MARCH (JFM) 2014
OUTLOOK NORMAL
Figure 8: January – February – March 2014 Rainfall Forecast
Zone I: Higher likelihood of Above to Normal Rainfall.
Zone II & III: Higher likelihood of Normal to Below-Normal Rainfall.
Source: Meteorological Services of Namibia
8
4. FOOD SECURITY SITUATION
Following a very poor agricultural production caused by severe drought conditions last season,
household food security situation is seemingly fragile in the regions. Most households interviewed have
indicated that, their last season’s poor harvest only lasted between July and August this year. These
household are currently dependent on the market purchases and government drought relief foods for
food access. Some households could not harvest anything from their crop fields, because according to
them the drought conditions were too severe this year.
The household food security situation in the North East (Kavango East, Kavango West and Zambezi
regions) is tightening as most households interviewed in all the constituencies, with exception of Katima
Urban, have indicated that they have depleted their last season harvest last July. Majority of households
are said to be dependent on the market and drought relief foods for food access.
Food security situation in the north central regions (Oshikoto, Oshana, Ohangwena and Omusati) was
noted to be weakening as most households interviewed have indicated that they have depleted their last
season’s harvest and are currently making use of the market and government drought relief foods for
food access.
Meanwhile, further interventions aimed at circumventing food insecurity were made, namely
supplementary feeding and Cash Transfer intervention and are currently being implemented in various
regions in the country.
Food distribution
Government has embarked upon food distribution program to the needy people who were affected by
drought conditions. This program has started from the beginning of August 2013 up to end of March
2014.
Supplementary feeding
This is a targeted feeding response program currently implemented by the Council of Churches in
Namibia (CCN) and Namibia Red-cross Society (NRCS). This program, also called Soup Kitchen,
provides hot meals to the most vulnerable people in all the regions countrywide. The targeted vulnerable
groups included malnourished children, Orphan and Vulnerable children (OVC), the elderly, chronically
ill and people living with HIV/AIDS who are on ARV treatment. Government is allocating food items to
both CCN and NRCS for Soup Kitchen Program.
Cash transfers
This program is targeting the highly food insecure people living in locations with access to resilient
market and who were not otherwise benefiting from regular food distributions. It is being implemented
by ACT Alliance-LWF and is currently being implemented in Hardap, Kunene, Omusati and Kavango
East regions.
In addition, social protection measures from the government remained in place and this include:
Orphan and Vulnerable Children (OVC) maintenance Grant: A monthly grant is given to
OVC to improve their quality of life.
9
Emergency food assistance to San communities: The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister
took an initiative to assist the vulnerable San communities with emergency food assistance and
sustainable medium and longer-term activities aimed at enhancing their quality of life.
School Feeding: The Ministry of Education’s school feeding programme seeks to improve the
dietary intake of children whose households have difficulties accessing food. The programme
also contributes to national efforts to increase school enrolment, attendance and the ability to
concentrate and learn.
Old Age Pension : This is the monthly grant given to senior citizen over the age of sixty to help
them afford basic needs and services, thus improve their living standard
War Veteran Grant: This is a monthly grant given by the government to people who were
accorded a war veteran status. The grant is aimed at enabling the beneficiary to access basic
needs and services.
10
5. PASTURE AND LIVESTOCK CONDITIONS
Pasture Condition
Pasture conditions from various parts of the regions is said to have deteriorated greatly during the course
of the dry season and has since vary between fair to very poor. Many farmers are reported to have lost
some of their livestock to drought which according to them was very severe this year. Moreover, the
regions noted a slight delay in the start of the rain season, which is expected to bring a much needed
relief not only to the improvement of the grazing areas, but also to perk up water availability,
particularly for livestock. Nevertheless, the most likely scenario is that, grazing conditions are expected
to improve as most parts of the regions are reported to have received some good showers lately.
In the Zambezi region, grazing conditions are reported to be fair to poor in the eastern part of the region
(i.e. Kabbe North and Kabbe South as well as Katima Rural constituencies as well as areas along the
river in the Linyanti and Lyaboloma constituencies), due to higher concentration of animals and range
between fair to good elsewhere in the region. In the Kavango East and Kavango West regions, grazing
conditions were reported to be poor to very poor in areas along the river while elsewhere in the region
the situation is said to be fair to good except some areas that suffered veld fires. Poor grazing conditions
were reported in the north central regions with all the four north central regions equally affected.
However, the situation was reported to be very serious in the cattle post areas, particularly in Uuvudhiya
constituency in Oshana region where many farmers from Omusati, Oshikoto, Ohangwena and Oshana
regions moved their livestock for what it was known as better grazing conditions and now poor due to
overgrazing.
Furthermore, water shortages for livestock were reported in the four north central regions, particularly in
the cattle post areas. According to some interviewed farmers, availability of enough water keeps
livestock in good body condition even if there are no enough grazing materials available
Livestock Condition
Livestock are reported to be in fair to very poor conditions in most parts of the north central regions
where some farmers are reported to have lost some of their cattle due to drought conditions. Livestock
conditions in the four northern regions are reported to range between poor (in areas around the township)
and fair to good in areas around the cattle posts. In the Zambezi, Kavango East and Kavango West
regions, conditions of the livestock are said to range between fair to poor in the Eastern part of Zambezi
region and areas along the river in Kavango East and Kavango West regions, while elsewhere in these
regions, livestock conditions are said to range between fair to good.
With regards to livestock health, no major livestock disease outbreaks were reported in the regions at the
time of this assessment. However, suspected cases of Food and Mouth Disease (FMD) were reported in
the Zambezi region, in Katima rural constituency in particular, Masikili, Kabbe, Ivilivinzi and
Salambala villages, during June this year. Furthermore, it was reported that Kavango West region
experienced unusual number of cases of Black quarter during August/September this year, in Mpungu
and Kahenge constituencies in the Kavango West region. Although this region usually experiences the
problem of Black quarter every year, this year according to the regional Directorate of Veterinary
Services, the situation was more severe when compared with previous years. Additionally, farmers
especially in the north central regions indicated that their livestock are dying of hunger. Many farmers
are reported to have lost some of their livestock due to drought. Furthermore, drought related conditions
were also reported and this included; Dystocia, Retained placenta and virginal prolapsed.
11
6. CROP PRODUCTION OUTLOOK FOR 2013/2014 CROP
SEASON
Progress on Land Preparation
As it was the case last season, the 2013/2014 cropping season noted a slight delay in the start of the
rainfall season. The normal start of the rain season is usually as from mid October. However, at the time
of this assessment in November, all the regions have not yet received sufficient rainfall, enough to
trigger cultivation activities. Ploughing and planting activities have not yet started, except river field
farmers in the Zambezi region. Most parts of the regions were still dry and farmers were in full swing
with repairing their fences, kraal manure applications and clearing their crop fields for cultivations.
However, by the end of this assessment and early December, most regions are reported to have received
good showers, enough to trigger cultivation activities. Provisional rainfall outlook for the 2013/2014
rain season according to Meteorological Services of Namibia indicated that the greater part of Namibia
can expect to receive normal to above normal rainfalls during the first part of the season (October-
November-December).
Availability and Access to Agricultural Inputs
In the Zambezi region, basic input such as seeds and fertilizers were available and enough to start the
season. The region received 23.5 tons of maize seeds for distribution to farmers as free seeds. At the
time of the assessment, the region reported that about 10 tons of hybrid maize seeds were distributed to
the river field crop farmers and the remaining 13.5 tons are yet to be distributed to upper land crop field
farmers. In addition, the region indicated that more seed stocks for both maize, pearl millet and sorghum
is still being expected and will be sold to farmers under the government dry land crop production
subsidy program. The region has also indicated that they have limited carry over stock of fertilizers from
last season which is currently being sold to the farmers while waiting for the new stock to arrive.
Furthermore, there are currently five improved seed suppliers of which four are supplying maize seed
varieties and one is only supplying pearl millet and sorghum seed varieties. This included; Kafasepco,
Kamunu, Likwama and Caprivi Business Consultants for maize seeds and Northern Namibia Seed
Growers Cooperative for pearl millet and sorghum seeds.
In the Kavango East and Kavango West regions as well as the north central regions, both subsidy and
free seeds for pearl millet and sorghum have not yet arrived in the regions at the time of this assessment.
It was reported that the Seed Cooperative in the Omusati region had completed packing the seeds and
were still waiting for the directive from the Directorate of Research and Training on the distribution
modality. The demand of improved seeds from the farmers is very high due to a poor harvest received
last season. According to farmers interviewed in these regions, most of them indicated that they were
unable to retain some local seed varieties for both cereal and non-cereal crops, due to severe drought
conditions which have dominated the season. In addition, the Northern Namibia Seed Growers
Cooperative at Mahenene in Omusati region has indicated that they do not have enough seeds stock
available this season, because seed growers were equally affected by drought conditions last season.
With regards to the availability of fertilizers, most regions have indicated that they have a limited
carryover stock of fertilizers from last season which they are currently being distributed to Agricultural
Development Centers (ADC) for farmer’s easy access.
12
One of the challenges facing the agricultural industry is the rising cost of production world wide due to
high cost of agricultural inputs. Government recognised this challenge and introduce policies and
programmes that are aimed at boosting food production, particularly in the communal areas of the
country. In light of the above, government through the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry still
has the following subsidy in place, aimed at enabling crop farmers in the communal areas to afford
agricultural inputs thereby increasing food production. This includes the following:
Seed and Fertilizers subsidy
This is a subsidy that was introduced in the northern communal crop producing regions which allows
farmers to buy seeds and fertilizers (NPK, MAP and NH4SO4) at 50% subsidy for seeds and 60%
subsidy for fertilizers, limited to 3 hectares per farmers. The aim of this program is to enable the farmers
to afford these inputs (i.e. seeds and fertilizers), thus improve their crop productions. The fertilizers
subsidised prices for a 50kg bag is N$120 for MAP, N$83 NH4SO4, N$127 for NPK, N$114 LAN and
N$140 Urea fertilizers.
Ploughing services subsidy
This program allows farmers to afford ploughing services from the private tractors or draught animals
by giving them a subsidy of N$200 per hectare ploughed, but limited to three hectares per farming
household.
Weeding services subsidy
This is another subsidy given to farmers during the weeding activities. An amount of N$200 subsidy per
hectare weeded is given to each farmer and also limited to three hectare like other subsidies mentioned
earlier.
Due to limited fund available for the ploughing and weeding services, only few farmers that are going to
benefit from these subsidies and the regions may reduce three hectares given to farmers based on the
demand in that area.
Government tractor services
The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry has reintroduce government tractors to the northern
communal crop producing regions. These tractors are equipped with implements such as ripper, planter
and fertilizers application machine. Below is a summary of tractors in the regions.
Region Number of
tractors
Area of delivery
Zambezi 12 All ADCs
Kavango East & West 12 All ADCs
Ohangwena 14 All ADCs and 2 to supplement areas of high
demand
Oshikoto 12 All ADCs and 3 to supplement areas of high
demand
Oshana 11 All ADCs and 1 to supplement areas of high
demand
13
Omusati 10 All ADCs except Ogongo & Okahao where
many private tractors exist
Kunene North 4 Okangwati ADC and Otjisokotjongava ADCs
Total 75
Farmers are also required to register for the government tractors and pay an amount of N$300 per
hectare for a combination of planting and fertilizing or ripping and planting. Moreover, if a farmer
would only want planting service alone, then she/he has to pay an amount of N$150 per hectare.
In addition, government is also providing free seeds to all the dry land crop producing regions for pearl
millet and maize with coverage of up to two hectares per household.
7. SITUATION BY REGION Zambezi Region
14
15
The basic input availability in the region is generally satisfactory to kick start the season. The
region received 23.5 tons of maize seeds for distribution to farmers as free seeds. At the time of
the assessment, the region reported that about 10 tons of hybrid maize seeds were distributed to the
river field crop farmers and the remaining 13.5 tons are yet to be distributed to upper land crop field
farmers. In addition, the region indicated that more seed stocks for both maize, pearl millet and
sorghum is still being expected and will be sold to farmers under the government dry land crop
production subsidy program. There are currently five improved seed suppliers of which four are
supplying maize seed varieties and one is only supplying pearl millet and sorghum seed varieties.
This included; Kafasepco, Kamunu, Likwama and Caprivi Business Consultants for maize seeds and
Northern Namibia Seed Growers Cooperative for pearl millet and sorghum seeds. While others
already have maize seed varieties in stock ready to be sold to the farmers. The region has also
indicated that they have limited carry over stock of fertilizers from last season which is currently
being sold to the farmers and is still waiting for the new stock to arrive. Progresses on the land
preparation, ploughing as well as planting of maize in the river crop fields have been completed with
good germinations observed and at the time of the assessment crop stage have reached knee height.
Elsewhere in the region, farmers are busy clearing their land and mending fences waiting for
productive rains for them to start their field cultivations
Regarding the tractors services, the region has 12 tractors fully equipped with the necessary
implements. At the time of the assessment, nine of the 12 tractors have been serviced and ready for
use, while the remaining three tractors are yet to be serviced before being sent to various
constituencies for ploughing services. Private tractor owners are also expected to participate in the
ploughing subsidy services this season. On the household food security, the situation is said to have
weakened since July when most households have depleted their little harvest from last season.
Majority of households are said to be dependent on the market and drought relief foods for food
access. With regards to livestock health, suspected cases of Food and Mouth Disease (FMD) were
reported in Katima rural constituency in particular, Masikili, Kabbe, Ivilivinzi and Salambala
villages. The regional Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) reported that, tests were made and
some livestock tested positive. Some samples were sent to South Africa for further diagnosis and at
the time of the assessment, the results have not yet been received. Moreover, DVS had enforced a ban
on slaughtering of livestock which has subsequently resulted in the closure of the Meat-co abattoir.
Moreover, restrictions measures on the livestock movements have also been enforced. At the time of
the assessment, the ban on slaughtering of livestock was still enforced and restriction of livestock
movements has been lifted in the western part of the region. Cases of tick infestations were also
reported throughout the region, but according to farmers and the DVS, the extent of the infestation is
much better compared to the past seasons. Other livestock related cases reported included sporadic
cases of Black quarter, Dystocia as well as prolapsed of the Uterus.
Constituencies
Katima Urban: Most part of this constituency is
a town and residential area. With the exception
of few home gardening and irrigation projects
exist in this area, no farming activities other than
these are taking place. Hence it is irrelevant from
the assessment team to report on agricultural
activities in this area.
Kabbe North and Kabbe South
Constituencies: Due to poor harvest received
last season, majority of farmers were unable to
reserve sufficient good quality seeds for this
season. Nevertheless, many farmers received free
drought relief maize seeds from the government,
especially those with crop fields along the river.
At the time of this assessment, the constituency
has not yet received productive rainfall and the
upland farmers were still clearing their crop
fields, waiting for productive rainfall for them to
begin cultivations. Furthermore, the assessment
team was informed that, arrangements to avail
more subsidy and free seeds in the area were
almost finalized and farmers can expect the
arrival of seeds very soon.
With regards to tractors services, it was reported
that there are few private tractors available in
this area and according to farmers most tractors
are taken to the lake area where field sizes are
relatively big and free form the stamps.
Nevertheless, the entire ADC in this
constituency is expecting the government tractor
once productive rainfall has been received. On
the household food security, the situation is
reported to be weakening as most households are
reported to have depleted their harvests and are
now dependent on the market and government
drought relief seeds for food access. On livestock
health, no major livestock diseases were reported
at the time of this assessment except, suspected
cases of FMD in Kabbe area in June and the
DVS has already taken some precautionary
measures in order to contain the disease.
However, pasture is reported to be poor in the
west due to high concentration of animals and
good in the eastern part of the constituency
Katima Rural Constituency: At the time of the
assessment, no rainfall received yet and most
farmers were still clearing their crop fields and
waiting for productive rain for them to kick start
with cultivation. However, river field farmers
managed to plough and plant their crop fields
with available soil moisture and the river level
recede back and their maize was seen to be at
knee height. These farmers received free maize
seeds from the government and are thankful of
the government for such assistance. Furthermore,
many farmers’ especially upland crop farmers
were in a process to register for the government
subsidy scheme such as improved seeds and
ploughing and fertilizers subsidy services. Last
season, most farmers were unable to retain
enough good quality seeds due to severe dry
conditions that dominated the season.
With regards to household food security, most
households are reported to have depleted their
harvest last July and are currently dependent on
the market and drought relief foods for food
access. On the livestock health, no major
livestock disease outbreaks were reported at the
time of this assessment. However, suspected
cases of Food and Mouth Disease (FMD) were
reported in Masikili, Kabbe, and Ivilivinzi and
Salambala villages. This has lead to enforcement
of a ban on slaughtering of livestock by the DVS
which has subsequently resulted in the closure of
the Meat-co abattoir. Moreover, restrictions
measures on the livestock movements have also
been enforced. Furthermore, cases of tick’s
infestation are still being reported in the area but
the magnitude of the infestation is said to be
much lower and better than previous seasons.
Furthermore, Pasture is poor in the low laying
areas due to high concentrations of animals, but
expected to improve once good showers have
being received.
Kongola Constituency: At the time of this
assessment, ploughing and or planting activities
have not yet started since no productive rainfall
received. Most farmers were busy clearing as
well as fencing their crop fields which they
started during September/October. In the eastern
part of the constituency, around Kongola area,
most farmers prefer to use improved seeds and
majority of them have already registered in order
to purchase subsidized seeds. Furthermore,
farmers indicated that, availability of seeds from
the previous season at household level is very
limited because of drought experienced last
season. On the western part of the constituency,
Omega III area, majority of farmers are San
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people and they are usually provided with free
seeds which according to them has not yet
arrived at their local Agricultural Development
Centre. Farmers further indicated that, they could
not obtain any harvest last season due to drought
as well as destruction by wild animals, hence no
seeds available at household level. Most farmers
in the Omega III area don’t use fertilizers due to
affordability and kraal manure is scare as there
are very few livestock kept in the area.
Draught animals especially donkeys are fit to be
used for ploughing services and according to
farmers, there in only one government tractor
known to be operating in the area which due to
the high demand cannot cover everyone
especially those in the farthest areas. On
household food security, the situation is
tightening since most households are reported to
have finished their last season’s harvest and are
now dependent on the market and government
drought relief foods for food access. The San
people are currently relying on their special food
program as well as collecting wild fruits.
Linyanti and Lyaboloma Constituencies:
Mmajority of farmers were able to register for
the government subsidy services the Ministry is
offering. According to the Agricultural
Extension Technicians responsible for this area,
registration for farmers who want to participate
in the seed, fertilizers and ploughing subsidy
scheme has already been completed. Most
farmers interviewed indicated that, they were
unable to retain sufficient good quality seeds
from the previous harvest, due to drought
experienced last season. Government tractors
assigned to this constituency are said to be ready
for ploughing services and private tractor owners
have also registered to participate in the
government ploughing subsidy services.
With the exception of crop fields along the river,
ploughing activities have not yet started since the
area have not received sufficient rainfall and
farmers are eagerly waiting for the rain to start
which according to them is delayed. With
regards to household food security, farmers have
indicated that their last season’s harvest got
finished in July this year and are currently
dependent on the market and government
drought relief foods for food access. On the
livestock’s health, no major livestock disease
outbreaks were reported at the time of the
assessment. However, suspected cases of
Anthrax were reported since August this year in
Lubuta and Sachona areas, where the affected
farmers are reported to have lost cattle due to this
problem. Pasture condition was reported to be in
good condition while livestock on the other hand
is said to be in fair condition.
Sibinda Constituency: According to the
Agricultural Extension officials responsible for
this area, majority of farmers have registered to
participate in the government subsidy services.
At the time of the assessment, no significant
rainfall received to trigger cultivation activities
and most farmers were busy with clearing their
crop fields and waiting for the productive season
to start cultivation. Furthermore, the Agricultural
Extension Offices (ADC) is in a process of
inviting seed suppliers at certain designated
places to enable farmers to have easy access to
seeds. Majority of farmers have registered for
various government subsidy services since
October this year.
The ADCs has reported that livestock are in
good conditions and draught animals in
particular are fit and readily available for
ploughing services. Furthermore, the government
tractor assigned to this ADC is also reported to
be available and ready for ploughing services.
There is only one private tractor known to be
operating in the area which according to farmers
was still out of order since last season.
Additionally, one weeding group registered in
the area of Sibinda is expected to partake in the
weeding subsidy services this season. Several
farmers managed to sell their cattle through
Meat-co abattoir before the ban on livestock
marketing was enforced. No major livestock
diseases were reported at the time of the
assessment. With regards to household food
security, most households are reported to have
depleted their harvest and are currently
dependent on the market and government
drought relief foods for food access.
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Kavango East and Kavango West Regions
Constituencies
Kahenge Constituency: According to farmers
due to a very poor harvest received last season,
seeds obtained from the previous season were
very limited and insufficient for this season. In
addition, at the time of the assessment the ADCs
were still waiting for seeds and fertilizers
consignments to arrive. Moreover villages such
as Murayi and the surrounding areas, ploughing
and planting activities have started following
some good showers received. What was apparent
was, majority of farmers are busy clearing their
crop fields and readying them for cultivation.
Pasture condition was reported to be poor
especially areas along the river and better to
good in the inland. Water availability for
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The region reported a slight delay in the delivery of basic inputs such as
improved seeds and fertilizers. At the time of the assessment, the regions were
still awaiting for the arrival of free and subsidy seeds as well as fertilizers.
However, it was reported that, there is a small carryover stock of fertilizers from
last season which according to the region was not enough to start the season.
Majority of farmers interviewed reported that, due to drought experienced last season,
they were unable to retain good quality and sufficient seeds and are counting on the
government for seed supply. On the weeding subsidy service, the region expressed a
concern that many weeding groups were not paid last season for their weeding service
rendered due to insufficient budgetary provision to this service. According to the Chief
Agricultural Scientific Officer, budgetary provision for this subsidy services was
overstretched and could not cover all the weeding groups that have participated in the
subsidy services. The region is therefore requesting for additional resources to this
activity in order to pay the weeding groups which could not be paid last season. On the
livestock health, the region reported that unusual number of cases of Black quarter
was reported in Mpungu and Kahenge constituencies in the Kavango West region.
Although the regions usually experience the problem of Black quarter during the dry
season, this season according to the regional Directorate of Veterinary Services, the
situation was more severe than previous season. In an effort to put the situation under
control, government through the DVS has intervened by launching vaccination
campaign in October and the situation has since normalized. Grazing is reported to be
poor in areas along the river due to high concentration of livestock from the inland for
water supply and fair to good in the inland areas. It was also reported that cattle are
getting stuck in the mud on the river bank since their body condition is weak and
could not pull out of the mud hence they died there. This situation is said to be more
severe in Kamutjonga village in Mukwe constituency of the Kavango East region and
Karangama and Ruwone villages in the Mpungu constituency of the Kavango West
region. With regards to household food security, majority of household are dependent
on the market and government drought relief foods for food supply. Farmers had very
poor harvest last season because of drought which affected both crop and grazing
establishment.
livestock is reported to be okay since most of the
farmers make use of the river to supply water to
their livestock. Livestock diseases reported
included Black quarter and Botulism since June
this year, but the situation is reported to have
been brought under control, following
vaccination campaigns by the DVS. However,
some farmers especially in Tondoro village are
still reporting cases of Botulism. The household
food security was reported to have weakened, as
most household depleted their last season’s
harvest and are now dependent on the market
and government drought relief foods for food
access.
Kapako Constituency: Majority of farmers in
this area were unable to retain sufficient good
quality seeds this year, following poor harvest
due to poor rainfall performance last season. At
the time of the assessment, this area has not yet
received their inputs such as seeds and fertilizers.
Furthermore, productive rainfall has not yet been
received and most farmers were busy clearing
their crop fields for cultivations. Most farmers in
this area use draught animals to cultivate their
crop fields. At the time of the assessment,
draught animals were reported to be in fair
condition and are somehow fit to be used for
ploughing. Ploughing equipments such as hand
hoes, mould board ploughs and other basic
implements are in place and most farmers are
just waiting for the productive rainfall for them
to start with their field cultivation.
Pastures is said to be in good condition in the
inland with exception of areas which suffered
veld fire and poor in areas along the river, due to
high concentration of livestock in that area. With
regards to livestock health, most parts of this
area reported Black quarter disease in cattle
between June and September this year. However,
at the time of this assessment, the situation is
reported to have normalised, following
vaccination operation by the DVS. With regards
to household food security, the situation is
tightening as most households are reported to
have depleted their food stock from last season’s
poor harvest and are now dependent on the
market and government drought relief foods for
food access.
Mpungu Constituency: Some villages such as
Sikumba, Likorerela and the surrounding
villages have started ploughing and planting their
crop fields, following some good showers
received. Majority of farmers were still preparing
their crop field for ploughing. However, due to
poor harvest experienced last season, indicated
that they were unable to obtain and retain
sufficient good quality seeds at harvest. Farmers
are therefore reportedly making a regular visit to
their local Agricultural Development Centre
(ADC) in search of the improved seeds. At the
time of the assessment, both seeds and fertilizers
have not yet been received at the ADC.
Most farmers in this area make use of draught
animals mainly oxen to plough their crop fields.
Private tractors are hardly operating in this area.
Nevertheless, the government tractors assigned
to this constituency is said to be ready for
ploughing services. However, the challenges
remains that some crop fields are still not
accessible by tractor due to stamps. With regards
to livestock health, Black quarter disease was a
major problem in cattle since June this year and
many farmers are reported to have lost their
cattle to this disease. At the time of the
assessment, the situation is said to have
improved, followed a massive vaccination
operation by the Directorate of Veterinary
Services. Other cases reported included Botulism
which according to the Agricultural Extension
official responsible for this area is now under
control. Grazing condition is reported to have
started deteriorating and some farmers are
reported to have started losing their livestock due
to drought. Veld fires were also reported and
according to farmers have contributed negatively
to poor grazing condition. No livestock diseases
outbreaks were reported at the time of the
assessment. On the household food security,
most household interviewed have indicated that,
their food stock from last season’s poor harvest
have been depleted and are currently dependent
on the market and government food relief foods
for food access.
Mukwe Constituency: Although, most farmers
were unable to retain enough seeds from last
season’s poor harvest, preparations for the new
season were in full swing at the time of this
assessment. Most interviewed farmers indicated
that, they are looking forward to purchase seeds
from their local ADC, which at the time of the
assessment were not yet available. Registration
of farmers in the government Dry Land Crop
production subsidy program was underway.
However, it was reported that there is a high
demand of these subsidy services and most
farmers indicated that they hardly access some of
the subsidy services such as government tractor
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which is not sufficient for the entire
Constituency. Moreover, there is one private
tractor in the constituency which is said to be
expensive.
Many farmers uses draught to cultivate their crop
fields and are reported to be in fair to good
condition especially in the inland, while along
the River, the condition range from fair to poor.
Furthermore, the general livestock condition
follows the same pattern. Marketing of
agricultural produce especially pearl millet could
not materialize this year due to poor harvest
obtained last season. On the household food
security, the situation is reported to be
weakening as majority of farmers are said to
have depleted their last season’s harvest and are
currently relying on the market and drought
relief foods for food access.
Ndiyona Constituency: Majority of farmers in
this area are reported to be in need of seeds,
following poor harvest last season. Farmers are
reportedly making regular visits at the ADC in
search for seeds, which at the time of the
assessment were still not yet available. Draught
animal power is commonly used in this area for
ploughing service, but they are said to be weak
and not really fit for ploughing services.
Livestock conditions range from fair to poor and
this applies to draught animal as well. This
follows the poor pasture condition in the area.
The use of tractors for ploughing service is very
limited, most farmers are still struggling with
removing stumps from their crop fields and most
of them feel that it is a lot of work for them.
On the household food security, most households
indicated that they have already depleted their
harvested stock from last season and are mainly
dependent on the market and drought relief foods
for food access. No major livestock diseases
were reported at the time of the assessment.
Rundu Rural East Constituency: Most farmers
in this area are reportedly in need of both cereal
and non-cereal seeds, following poor harvest last
season. Farmers are reported to be making
regular visit at the ADC in search for seeds,
which at the time of this assessment were not yet
available at the ADC and the region as a whole.
Meanwhile farmers have started to register
mainly for improved seeds and tractor subsidy
services. It was reported that, demand for
fertilizers is still low in this area and many
farmers claimed that fertilizer prices are still high
despite the subsidy in place. Majority of farmers
used draught animal power to plough their crop
fields and at the time of this assessment, draught
animals are said to be weak due to poor grazing
conditions in the area. Nevertheless, there are
some private tractors known to be operating in
this area, just as addition to the government
tractor.
On the livestock health, no major livestock
diseases reported at the time of the assessment.
Pasture is said to be poor in areas along the river
and fair to good in the inland. Water for
livestock is also reported to be okay. Regarding
the household food security, the situation is said
to be tightening as majority of households
indicated that, their food stock from last season’s
harvest got finished in June. Under the
circumstance, most households are currently
dependent on the market and government
drought relief foods for food access.
Rundu Rural West Constituency: At the time
of the assessment, various parts of this
constituency are still dry and have not received
productive rainfall yet. Most farmers were busy
clearing their crop fields for cultivations.
However, due to poor harvest last season,
majority of farmers were unable to obtain
enough good quality seeds. Farmers are therefore
reportedly making regular visits to the ADC in
search for seed, which at the time of the
assessment have not yet arrived in the area.
According to the agricultural extension official
responsible for this area many farmers have been
visiting the ADC in search for seeds as well as
government subsidy services. Private tractors are
very scarce on this side, but there are few which
are expected to partake in the government
ploughing subsidy services. Moreover, this
government tractor for this area is also expected
to resume ploughing services once enough
rainfall has been received. Most farmers in this
area use draught animal power to cultivate their
crop fields. At the time of the assessment,
conditions of draught animals were reported to
be fair to good and are mostly fit to pull the
ploughs.
With regards to weeding services, majority of
farmers use mostly family members for labor and
some do also use hired labor especially for
weeding services. With regards to household
food security, the situation is said to be
weakening as many households interviewed
20
indicated that they have depleted their last
season’s harvest and are now dependent on the
market and drought relief foods for food supply.
Mashare Constituency: Majority of farmers is
concerned with the scarcity of seeds this season
as a result of the poor harvest of last season and
they were desperately in need of seeds. However,
farmers indicated that they will buy seeds at the
ADC or Open market in Rundu. Furthermore,
the demand for fertilizers is not high since there
are only few farmers who buy fertilizers and
kraal manure is rarely used in this area. Majority
of farmers described the condition of their
draught animal as very poor and unfit for
ploughing services. Furthermore, livestock in
general are lean due to hunger resulting from the
looming drought and poor grazing. On ploughing
services, the demand for GRN tractors is high,
given the fact that draught animal power is also
currently weak. At the time of the assessment,
farmers were busy registering for GRN subsidy
services services.
On ploughing implements, farmers indicated that
the necessary implements are in place, but some
share ploughs with those who don’t own one. On
labour matters, majority of farmers make use of
family members as well as hired labor which is
reported to be readily available. However, there
are also weeding groups available but their
services are limited as these groups are not easily
accessible. On the marketing aspect, it was
reported that, most farmers could not sell their
produce due to the poor harvest last season. On
the household food security, the situation is said
to be tightening as majority of farmers are
reported to have depleted their food stock from
last season’s poor harvest and are now dependent
on the market and government drought relief
foods for food access. On livestock health, no
major livestock diseases were reported at the
time of this assessment. However farmers
reported that they have lost some of their
livestock due to drought related conditions.
Finally, the pasture is poor along the riverside
due to overgrazing, however in the inland the
pasture was described as fair by farmers but veld
fires were also a concern which aggravated the
situation.
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Omusati region
Constituencies Anamulenge Constituency: At the time of the
assessment, no significant rainfall received yet
and most parts of the constituency is still dry.
What was apparent is that many farmers were in
a full swing to prepare their crop fields for
cultivation. With regards to inputs availability at
household level, most farmers have indicated
that, they were unable to obtain good quality
seeds due to poor harvest last season. Farmers in
this area use both draught animals and tractors to
cultivate their crop fields. Private tractors are
also available in the area and many farmers are
making use of them to plough their crop fields.
Moreover, the constituency is expecting the
government tractor assigned to this area to
resume its duties, once sufficient rainfall is
obtained.
With regards to household food security, most
families are reported to have depleted their last
season’s harvest and are now dependent on the
market and drought relief foods for food access.
Most households interviewed have indicated that,
prices for maize flour is higher as compared to
the same corresponding period last season.
Grazing condition was reported to be poor and
livestock body condition range between fair and
very poor. On the livestock health, no major
livestock diseases were reported in the area at the
time of the assessment. However, cases of
internal parasites in goats were widely reported
in the constituency. Furthermore, many farmers
are reported to have lost some of their livestock
to drought.
Elim Constituency: Majority of farmers in this
area are reportedly in need of cereal and non-
cereal seeds following the poor harvest
experienced last season. Farmers are said to be
making regular visits at the ADC in search for
seed which was not available at the time of the
assessment. Nonetheless, farmers said that they
are getting ready for the season as most of them
21
22
At the time of the assessment, the region was still awaiting for the delivery for
both subsidy and free seed consignments. Despite the fact that, pearl millet and non-
cereal seeds are in short supply this season because of the devastating drought which
rampaged agricultural production in the country last season, majority of farmers are
looking forward to the government to supply them with seeds. According to farmers,
last season poor harvest did not allowed them to retain sufficient good quality seeds
hence; there is a strong need for seeds supply. Also while still waiting for fertilizers
stock to arrive, the region had a limited carryover stock of Mono Ammonium
Phosphate (MAP) which has already been distributed to various ADC for farmer’s
easy access. Furthermore, the region reported that, due to drought last season, most
drought animals such as oxen and donkeys are not particularly fit for ploughing
services. Nevertheless, government as well as private tractors are reported to be ready
to render the ploughing services to the farmers. It was further reported that,
registration for ploughing subsidy services was still ongoing and may farmers have
registered for ploughing and other subsidy services. At the time of the assessment,
most farmers have not yet started ploughing or planting their crops fields since no
significant rainfall was received. Pasture condition was reported to be very poor in
most constituencies, but better in areas of Amarika and Uutsathima villages in Okahao
constituency, with limited water availability for livestock. Many farmers are reported
to have lost their livestock due to drought this year. No livestock diseases were
reported at the time of this assessment. With regards to household food security, the
situation is said to have weakened as majority of households are reported to have
depleted their little food stock from last season’s harvest and are now dependent on
the market and government drought relief foods for food supply.
indicated that their crop fields are already cleared
and some busy dispensing manure. However, all
interviewed farmers shared their concern with
the animal draught power that is described to be
in a very poor condition following poor pasture
availability in the constituency. Furthermore,
most donkeys are reportedly dying of internal
parasites which might result in shortage of
draught animal power at the onset of the season.
Following the poor production in the previous
year, none of the interviewed farmers have
managed to sell their mahangu. Moreover,
household food security is reported to be
weakening as majority of the households are said
to have depleted their last season’s harvest and
now dependent on the market and government
drought relief foods for food access. On the
livestock situation, the body condition is
generally poor and some livestock, particularly
cattle and donkeys are reported to have
succumbed to the current prevailing serious
drought situation.
Etayi Constituency: The majority of farmers
were unable to retain seeds from last season’s
harvest, following drought conditions which
dominated the season. Many farmers are
reportedly making regular visits at the ADC in
search for seeds which at the time of the
assessment were not yet available in the area. It
was further reported that there is a carryover
stock of fertilizers from last season which is
currently being sold to farmers, while waiting for
a new stock to arrive. Majority of farmers use
kraal manure to fertilizes their crop fields.
Draught animals are commonly used here to
cultivate crop fields which at the time of the
assessment were weak and not fit for ploughing
services. Some farmers are reported to have lost
some of their livestock, including draught
animals to the current drought conditions.
Nevertheless, private tractors are also available
in this area as well as government tractor which
is said to be on standby, waiting for productive
rainfall for it to start ploughing services.
Regarding marketing of mahangu grains, farmers
indicated that they did not sell any produce
because of the poor harvest received last season.
On the household food security, majority of the
households has no food as they are mainly
depending on drought relief food as well as the
market for food access. With regards to livestock
health, no livestock diseases were reported at the
time of this assessment. However drought related
cases such as vaginal prolapse, retained placenta,
Dystocia and so forth were widely reported in
the area.
Ogongo Constituency: Most farmers were busy
clearing their crop fields and repairing their
ploughing implements. At the time of the
assessment, the ADC was still awaiting for both
subsidy and free seeds. It was further reported
that, the ADC had some carryover stock of
fertilizers from the previous season and had
started selling them to farmers, while waiting for
a new stock to arrive. The availability of local
seed varieties at household level is very limited
this season, following poor harvest last season.
Most interviewed farmers indicated that they
were unable to retain good quality because of
severe drought conditions experienced last
season. With regards to private tractors several
private tractors are known to be operating in the
area and expected to partake in the government
ploughing subsidy program. Moreover,
government tractor assigned to this area is said to
be on standby and waiting for productive rainfall
for it to start ploughing service. Most farmers in
this area use draught animal, mainly donkeys to
cultivate their crop fields. However, these
animals were reported to be weak and unfit for
draught power.
On the household food security, the situation is
reported to be weakening as most households are
reported to have depleted their last season’s
harvest and are now dependent on the market
and government drought relief foods for food
access. Livestock body condition is reported to
be poor and some farmers are reported to have
lost some of their livestock to drought. No major
livestock diseases reported at the time of this
assessment.
Okahao Constituency: Majority of farmers in
this area are reported to be in need of cereal and
non-cereal seeds, following poor harvest last
season. At the time of this assessment, both
subsidy and free seeds have not yet been
received and farmers are reportedly making
regular visits at the ADC in search for seeds. It
was further reported that, while waiting for new
stock of fertilizers to arrive, there is a carryover
stock of fertilizers from last season and many
farmers have already started buying them in
order to fertilize their crop fields. At the time of
the assessment, the constituency was still dry and
ploughing or planting have not yet started.
23
Additionally, farmers indicated that they are
ready for the new season, while some were still
busy dispensing kraal manure in their crop field.
About nine private tractors have already
registered to participate in the ploughing subsidy
and according to the Agricultural Technicians at
the center, more tractors are still being expected
to join the scheme following the Project of the
War Veteran of the Liberation struggle who
many of them have acquired tractors.
On the livestock issue, farmers reported that they
are currently losing their livestock due to the
prevailing drought situation in the area. Pasture
condition is very poor, but fair to good in cattle
post areas, but no water. Furthermore, cases of
internal parasite in all livestock, mange’s in
goats and Dystocia among cattle have been
reported in different areas. Regarding household
food security, the situation is said to be
weakening as most households are said to have
depleted their little harvest from last season and
are now dependent on the market and
government drought relief foods for food access.
Onesi Constituency: The two ADCs in this
constituency are still waiting for improved seeds
and fertilizers consignments to arrive when the
assessment team visited this constituency. Most
farmers in this constituency are reported to be in
dying needs for seeds and are hoping to get some
from their local ADCs. According to farmers
interviewed, last season’s harvest was extremely
poor and they were unable to retain significant
quantity of seeds for both cereals and non-cereal
crops. As results many farmers are reportedly
making regular visits at the ADCs in search for
seeds.
Ploughing and planting activities have not yet
started and according to farmers there is a delay
in the onset of the rain. Most farmers in this area
use draft animal powers especially donkeys to
cultivate their crop fields. At the time of the
assessment farmers were complaining about the
poor body condition of their livestock including
draught animals which they attributed it to poor
grazing conditions caused by drought. It was
further reported that Farmers have further
reported that their livestock are suffering from
internal parasites and some farmers are reported
to have lost some of their donkeys to internal
parasites. With regards to household food
security in terms of own production, it was
reported that most households have depleted
their little food stock from last season’s harvest
and are now dependent on the market and
government drought relief foods for food access.
Oshikuku Constituency: At the time of the
assessment, most parts of this area were still dry
and farmers were still waiting for productive
rains to kick start cultivations. Farmers have
already concluded crop field clearance and
implements preparations as well as manure
application. Most farmers in this area use
draught animals to cultivate their crop fields. At
the time of this assessment draught animals
according to farmers are in poor condition and
unfit to be used for ploughing. However, private
tractors are many in this area and expected to
participate in the government ploughing subsidy
scheme. Improved seeds and new stock of
fertilizers have not yet arrived at the ADC by the
time of this assessment. Moreover, government
tractor assigned to this constituency is expected
to resume its ploughing services once productive
rainfall is received.
With regards to marketing of pearl millet grains,
farmers indicated that, they did not produced
surplus, hence no sales have taken place. On the
household food security, most households have
indicated that, their last season’s harvest got
finished in July and are now dependent on the
market and drought relief foods for food access.
No major livestock diseases outbreaks were
reported at the time of the assessment. However,
farmers reported that their livestock are dying
due to the prevailing drought conditions in the
area.
Otamanzi Constituency: Although this area is
one of the green baskets of the region, majority
of farmers were unable to retain sufficient good
quality seeds due to poor harvest experienced
last season. Many farmers are reportedly making
regular visits to the ADC in search for seeds
which at the time of the assessment were not yet
available. It was further reported that, services
like ploughing with tractors both private and
government are very scarce in this area.
However, farmers continue to rely on their
draught animals, especially donkeys for
ploughing services which at the time of the
assessment were in poor conditions and not fit
for ploughing service. In addition, some donkeys
were reported dying of internal parasites as well
as due to hunger in the area. Farmers further
reported that they are losing their cattle due to
severe drought conditions which resulted in very
poor grazing conditions. Farmers are requesting
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the Ministry to provide them with adequate
ploughing services as one tractor in the
Constituency is inadequate and always starts
later during the season.
Regarding household food security, majority of
the interviewed households indicated that, they
have depleted their little harvest from last season
and are now dependent on the market and
government drought relief foods for food access.
On the livestock health, no major diseases were
reported except hunger and its concomitant
conditions such as Dystocia, retained placentas,
virginal prolapse and so forth. Poor pasture
conditions were widely reported in the area and
livestock body conditions is said to range from
fair to very poor with some cattle unable to wake
up on their own, hence needed support to stand.
Outapi Constituency: Like other constituency
in the region, farmers reported that, they were
unable to retain sufficient and good quality seeds
from last season’s poor harvest. Most farmers are
therefore from now and then visit the ADC in
search for seeds, particularly pearl millet one. At
the time of this assessment, most farmers were
busy clearing their crop fields, repairing their
fence and waiting for productive rainfall for
them to commence cultivation. Furthermore,
farmers reported that draft animal are in fair to
poor conditions due to poor grazing and are not
available for ploughing services. According to
farmers, since the season before (2011/2012)
pasture could not establish properly due to poor
rainfall performance and the situation was
exacerbated by drought conditions last season.
Nevertheless, enough private tractors are
available (about 7 tractors) in the area of which
five of them usually participate in the
government ploughing subsidy service.
Moreover, the constituency has also one
government tractor available to the farmers and
is expected to resume ploughing activities once
good rainfall has been received.
With regards to livestock health, generally no
major livestock diseases were reported at the
time of the assessment. However, farmers
reported that they are losing their livestock
particularly cattle and donkeys to drought. On
the household food security, majority of
households reported to have finished their little
food stock from last season’s poor harvest and
are currently dependent on the market and
government drought relief foods for food supply.
Ruacana Constituency: For the past two
consecutive seasons, this constituency together
with Kunene region was hit by drought. Most
farmers did not have any significant harvests for
these two seasons. Therefore, farmers were
unable to obtain sufficient good quality seeds. At
the time of the assessment, the ADC was still
waiting for seeds consignments for subsidy and
free seeds as well as fertilizers. Most parts of this
constituency were still dry at the time of the visit
and farmers were busy clearing and readying
their crop fields for ploughing. According to
farmers, the basic ploughing equipments such as
hand hoes, mould board ploughs and other basic
implements are in place.
No major livestock diseases reported at the time
of the assessment except hunger for livestock
due to poor grazing condition. Grazing areas are
reported to be in a very poor condition and
livestock are reported to be in fair to poor
conditions. On the household food security, most
household in this area are merely dependent on
the market and drought relief foods for food
access. As indicated previously, most farmers in
this area did not have had proper harvest for the
past two seasons, hence their dependency on the
market and or government drought relief foods.
Okalongo Constituency: Farmers are reportedly
in need of seeds, following poor harvest last
season. Farmers are said to be visiting the ADC
regularly in search for seeds which at the time of
this assessment have not yet arrived in the area.
At the time of the assessment, no significant
rainfall were received and majority of farmers
were busy with clearing, manure applications,
de-bushing, de-stumping and mending fences for
their crop fields.
Majority of farmers uses draught animals to
cultivate their crop fields. However, at the time
of this assessment draught animals are said to be
weak and unfit for ploughing services.
Nevertheless, government tractor assigned to this
constituency is said to be ready for use, but just
waiting for sufficient rainfall in order to start
ploughing services. Furthermore, significant
number private tractors are also said to be
available in the area and expected to partake in
the government ploughing subsidy scheme.
No major livestock diseases were reported at the
time of this assessment. However, farmers are
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complaining about hunger for their livestock and
some farmers are reported to have lost some of
their livestock to drought. With regards to
household food security, the situation was
reported to be unsatisfactory as most households
are reported to have depleted their last season’s
harvest and now dependent on the market and
drought relief foods for food access.
Tsandi Constituency: Most farmers
interviewed indicated that, they were unable to
obtain enough good quality seeds from the
previous season due to the poor rainfall
performance experience. At the time of the
assessment, various parts of this constituency are
dry, characterized by poor pasture condition and
subsequently poor to fair livestock condition.
Farmers have further reported that, draught
animals especially donkeys are currently weak
and not fit to provide draught power. However,
some farmers took their livestock at the cattle
posts for better grazing and their livestock are
reported to be in good condition. Draught
animals are expected to be return back home for
ploughing services.
The extension officials responsible for this area
have indicated that they will collect
consignments of improved seeds and fertilizers
at the regional office to the ADC for farmers’
easy access. However, since many farmers did
not obtain sufficient seeds from their last harvest
and that the region received limited quantity of
seeds this season, the demand for seeds is
reported to be higher. Pasture was also
negatively affected by poor rainfall last season
and as such, draft animals are reported to be
weak and not fit to be used for draught power.
With regards to livestock health, cases of internal
parasite especially in goats and donkeys were
widely reported in the constituencies. Moreover,
farmers reported cases of Dystocia, retained
placenta as well as vaginal prolapsed. Household
food security was reported to be satisfactory with
many household. However, according to
household owner, the harvest is supplemented
with market surplus for it to last longer possible
take them to the next harvest.
Ohangwena Region
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While the region is waiting for the arrival of the improved seeds and fertilizers
consignments, it was reported that the region had a carryover stock of fertilizers
for top dressing only and sorghum and maize seeds in stock. Majority of farmers
were unable to retain enough good quality seeds last season due to drought. At the
time of the assessment, the region had a carryover stock of sorghum and maize seeds
which they have already dispatched to various constituencies for distribution. Since the
beginning of September, farmers have registered for inputs and ploughing subsidy
services with their respective ADCs. The region has further reported that, weeding
groups as well as tractor owners have showed an interest to partake in the subsidy
services this season. Furthermore, government tractors are also on standby and waiting
for the commencement of productive rainfall before dispatched to various
constituencies for ploughing services. Majority of farmers uses draft animals to
cultivate their crop fields and according to them, these animals are currently weak and
unfit for ploughing services due to poor grazing conditions. Many farmers are reported
to have lost their livestock due to drought this year and are hoping good rains to come
in order for the grazing areas to recover. With regards to livestock health, no major
livestock diseases were reported at the time of the assessment. However, the major
concern in the area is poor grazing and deteriorating livestock body condition because
of drought. Moreover, the region has also reported drought related conditions such as
vaginal prolapse, uterus prolapse as well as Dystocia in cattle. Additionally, the region
reported cases of rabies in cattle and dogs and internal parasites in goats. On the
household food security, the situation was reported to be critical as most households
are reported to have depleted their harvest and now dependent on the market and
government drought relief foods for food access.
Constituencies Eenhana Constituency: The Assessment team
was unable to visit this constituency due to lack
of transport. The vehicle used by the team which
supposed to conduct an assessment in this area,
developed a mechanical failure and was taken to
the garage for repair. Therefore, the assessment
team was unable to report on this constituency,
since no assessments were conducted.
Endola Constituency: The majority of farmers
in this constituency don’t have seeds and farmers
indicated that they have registered for free GRN
seeds. Furthermore, kraal manure is used by
some farmers and fertilizers are usually used by
farmers who can afford to buy it. Draught
animals were widely reported by farmers to be in
poor condition and at the time of this assessment,
draught animals were not fit to plough. On
ploughing services, four private tractor owners
had registered for ploughing subsidy services,
which will be supplemented by the GRN tractor
and the demand for tractors services for the
current season is likely to be very high given the
poor condition of draught animals. What is more,
is that farmers were busy readying their crop
fields especially, repairing fences, spreading
kraal manure, something they started since
October. On cultivation equipments, majority of
farmers indicated that they have ploughs and
hand hoes ready for the cropping season. On
labor issues, farmers make use of family
members for agricultural activities and during
the assessment period two weeding groups have
been registered.
On the marketing aspect, the majority of farmers
could not sell their produce due to the poor
harvest of last season. Furthermore, household
food security is generally poor and farmers
indicated that they are relying on the market and
drought relief foods for food access. On
livestock health, it was widely reported by
farmers that a significant number of livestock
have died due to drought related cases and the
pasture is generally poor.
Engela Constituency: Majority of farmers are
reported to be in need of seeds, following poor
harvest last season. Farmers are however,
making regular visits at the ADC in search for
seeds which at the time of this assessment was
not yet available in the area. The ADC reported
that, there is a carryover stock of fertilizers from
last season which is currently being sold to
farmers, while expecting a new stock to arrive.
Furthermore, draught animals are reported to be
weak and unfit for ploughing services. However,
there are private tractors of which some are
expected to participate in the government
ploughing subsidy services. Furthermore,
government tractor assigned to this area is also
reported to be on standby, just waiting for
productive rainfall for it to start rendering
ploughing services to the community.
On the livestock health, no major livestock
diseases were reported except hunger for
livestock. In this regard, some farmers are
reported to have lost some of their livestock to
the current prevailing drought condition.
Moreover, drought related conditions were
widely reported in the area and this included
retained placenta and vaginal prolapsed.
Epembe Constituency: Most farmers
interviewed in this constituency indicated that,
they were unable to obtain sufficient good
quality seeds, owing to drought conditions
experienced last season. At the time of the
assessment, seeds have not yet been received and
farmers are reportedly making regular visits at
the ADC in search for seeds. Most farmers in
this area uses draught animals to cultivate their
crop fields, which at the time of the assessment
was reported to be weak due to poor grazing
condition and not available immediately for
draught power. However, some farmers are
reported to have taken their livestock to cattle
posts, particularly Far East of the region and in
Angola for better grazing conditions.
With regards to cultivation implements, most
farmers interviewed indicated that they have at
least the basic ones such as hand hoes and mould
board ploughs. On the livestock health, no major
livestock diseases were reported at the time of
the assessment. However, farmers indicated that
the problem confronting their livestock is hunger.
Some farmers are reported to have lost some of
their livestock due to the prevailing drought
conditions. Household food security was
reported to be weakening as most household
interviewed reported that, they have finished
their little harvest from last season and are now
dependent on the market and drought relief foods
for food access.
Okongo constituency: Like as it was the case
last season, this constituency reported a delay in
the onset of the 2013/2014 rain season.
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According to farmers, productive rainfalls have
not yet been received at the time of this
assessment. Farmers further indicated that, they
were unable to obtain enough good quality seeds
due to drought conditions experienced last
season. Majority of farmers use draft animal
power to cultivate their crop fields, but the
condition of these animals is reported to be very
poor and not fit for ploughing. Furthermore,
farmers indicated that, there are about two
private tractors available in this area and these
tractors are only confined at areas around
Okongo area, while areas in the far east of the
constituency, no tractors. Therefore farmers in
these areas are only relying on draft animals to
cultivate their crop fields. Furthermore,
government tractor is reported to be on standby,
waiting for enough rainfall to start with
ploughing services. Grazing was reported to be
in poor conditions because of poor rainfall
performance experienced last season.
With regards to livestock health, no major
livestock disease outbreaks were reported at the
time of this assessment. However, farmers
indicated that, their livestock are dying due to
drought. Drought related cases were widely
reported in the area. This includes; Dystocia in
cattle, vaginal prolapsed and retained placenta.
Internal parasites in goats were also widely
reported in the area. On the household food
security, the situation is said to be weakening at
the time of this assessment as majority of
households said to have depleted their little
harvest from last season and are now dependent
on the market and government drought relief
foods for food access.
Omulonga Constituency: The Assessment team
was unable to visit this constituency due to lack
of transport. The vehicle used by the team which
supposed to conduct an assessment in this area,
developed a mechanical failure and was taken to
the garage for repair. Therefore, the assessment
team was unable to report on this constituency,
since no assessments were conducted.
Ohangwena Constituency: The Assessment
team was unable to visit this constituency due to
lack of transport. The vehicle used by the team
which supposed to conduct an assessment in this
area, developed a mechanical failure and was
taken to the garage for repair. Therefore, the
assessment team was unable to report on this
constituency, since no assessments were
conducted.
Omundaungilo constituency: Farmers
indicated that, no productive rainfall have yet
been received since the start of the season in
October up to the time of the assessment.
Farmers further indicated that, they were unable
to obtain enough and good quality seeds due to
severe drought conditions experienced last
season. Most farmers in this area uses the
draught animal mainly oxen to cultivate their
crop fields. At the time of the assessment, no
enough rainfall was received and farmers have
not yet started cultivation. Government tractor
according to the agricultural extension official
responsible for this area is on standby and is
expected to resume the ploughing services once
enough rainfall have been received. The
agricultural extension official further reported
that, there is only one known private tractor in
this constituency and participated in the
government subsidy services which he said only
render the subsidy service to farmers late, after
service those with cash first.
With regards to household food security, the
situation was reported to be weakening as most
households are reported to have depleted their
last season’s harvest and now dependent on the
market for food access. On the livestock health,
no major livestock diseases were reported at the
time of the assessment, except hunger for
livestock due to the prevailing drought.
Oshikango Constituency: Majority of farmers
have reported that they don’t have seeds due to
the poor harvest last season and during the
assessment period, some farmers were busy
registering for free seeds from the government.
Furthermore, farmers make use of kraal manure
and they have indicated that fertilizers are
usually used by farmers who can afford. The
condition of draught animal is generally poor
due to drought and some are said to have died. In
addition, farmers indicated that they will prefer
to use tractors for ploughing given the condition
of draught animals which. At the time of this
assessment, one private tractor has been
registered to participate in the government
ploughing subsidy services, which will be
supplemented by one GRN tractor. Furthermore,
during the assessment period, farmers were busy
with clearing and fencing their crop fields, which
they reportedly started during November. On
ploughing implements, farmers indicated that the
equipments and tools used for agricultural
activities are ready for the cropping season. On
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labor matters, the majority of farmers makes use
family members as well as hired labor for
agricultural activities.
On the marketing aspect, the majority of farmers
could not sell some of their produce due to the
poor harvest of the previous season. On
household food security, the majority of farmers
are depending on the market for food access as
well as drought relief foods from the government.
No major livestock diseases were reported apart
from drought related cases which were widely
reported by farmers and the pasture is very poor.
Ondobe Constituency: The Assessment team
was unable to visit this constituency due to lack
of transport. The vehicle used by the team which
supposed to conduct an assessment in this area,
developed a mechanical failure and was taken to
the garage for repair. Therefore, the assessment
team was unable to report on this constituency,
since no assessments were conducted.
Ongenga Constituency: Due to poor harvest
obtained last season, many farmers were unable
to retain sufficient good quality seeds. Farmers
are therefore looking up to the government in
search for seeds, which at the time of the
assessment were not yet received in the area.
Apart from cereal seeds, farmers are also
requesting the government to provide them with
leguminous seeds like cowpeas, Bambara nuts
and groundnuts. On the fertilizer, it was reported
that there is a carryover stock from last season
and is currently being sold to farmers while
waiting for new stock to arrive.
The registration in subsidy services was ongoing
at the time of this assessment. Several private
tractors are known to be operating in this area
and some are expected to partake in the
government ploughing subsidy services. The
draught animal was reported to be in poor
condition and unfit for ploughing services.
Pasture condition is very poor and deteriorating.
Moreover, livestock are equally in bad shape
especially cows, some are unable to stand
without support. Some farmers are reported to
have lost some of their livestock to drought. On
the household food security, it was reported that,
the situation has worsened, since most
household’s last seasons’ harvest got finished in
July and many households are currently
dependent on the market and government
drought relief foods for food access.
29
Oshana Region
Constituencies Okaku Constituency: Most farmers in this area
were unable to obtain enough good quality seeds
due to poor rainfall performance experienced last
season. As a result, the demand for improved
seeds is very high this season. At the time of this
assessment, improved seeds have not yet arrived
in the area. With regards to the fertilizers, the
ADC had a carryover stock of various fertilizers
compounds which they have already started
selling to farmers. The constituency is still
waiting for more consignment of both seeds and
fertilizers. Many farmers have started to register
in the government dry land crop production
subsidy program. Most farmers in this area make
use of either draught animals, tractors or both to
cultivate their crop fields. However, at the time
of this assessment, it was reported that draught
animals were in a very poor condition and as
such they are not fit for ploughing services.
Furthermore, many farmers are reported to have
lost their livestock due to drought including
draught animals.
With regards to household food security, the
situation is weakening as most households are
reported to have depleted their last season’s poor
harvest and are now dependent on the market
and government drought relief foods for food
access. No major livestock disease outbreaks
were reported at the time of the assessment.
30
30
The region reported a slight delay on the onset of the rain. According to farmers,
productive rainfalls were only received toward the end of November instead of
the normal start in mid October which was also the case last season. At the time of
the assessment, the region was still dry and farmers were still waiting for the rain. At the time of this assessment, the region was in a process of collecting first
consignment of improved seeds from the Northern Namibia Farmer’s Seed Growers
Cooperative which is expected to be distributed to all its constituencies. On the
fertilizers availability, the region had limited carryover stock from last season which
according to the regional Agricultural Extension Office is not sufficient to start the
season. New stock of fertilizers for this season is expected to arrive in not too distant
future. Furthermore, government tractors are ready for the ploughing services and
expected to be dispatched to various constituencies, once enough rainfall is received.
In addition private tractors are also expected to participate in the ploughing subsidy
services this season and at the time of the assessment, registration for all the subsidy
services including tractor ploughing subsidy services was still ongoing. On the
household food security, the situation is said to be critical as most households are
reported to have depleted their last season’s harvest and are currently dependent on the
market and government drought relief foods for food access. According to the Oshana
Regional Council, 60 000 bags (12.5kg) of maize supply to the region monthly is
insufficient do not cover all the people who are food insecure in the region. The region
made a submission to the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) requesting OPM to
increase the supply and by the time of this assessment, the response thereof has not yet
been received. With regards to livestock condition, the situation was described to be
very awful as many farmers are reported to have lost and continue losing their
livestock due to the prevailing drought conditions in the region. The situation was
reported to be very serious in the cattle post areas, particularly in Uuvudhiya
constituency where many farmers from Omusati, Oshikoto, and Ohangwena and
Oshana regions moved their livestock for what it was known as better grazing
conditions and now poor due to overgrazing.
However, farmers reported that they are losing
their livestock due to drought.
Uukwiyu Constituency: As it is the case with
other constituencies, majority of farmers in this
area were unable to retain enough good quality
seeds, following serious drought conditions
experienced last season. Farmers are reported to
be visiting their local ADC in search for seeds,
which at the time of this assessment have not yet
arrive in the area. Farmers use either draught
animals, tractors or both to cultivate their crop
fields. At the time of this assessment, draught
animals are reported to be weak and unfit for
ploughing services. Farmers have further
indicated that they lost some of their livestock
including draught animals to drought. Private
tractors are known to be operating in this
constituency and last season, two were registered
to participate in the government ploughing
subsidy service. Moreover, government tractor is
also expected to resume its ploughing services to
farmers, once enough rainfall is received.
Weeding groups are also said to be in operational
in the area and are expected to partake in the
government weeding subsidy scheme this season.
With regards to food household food security,
the situation was reported to be flimsy as most
households are said to have finished their last
season’s harvest and now dependent on the
market and drought relief foods for food access.
On the livestock health, cases of internal
parasites in goats were reported widely in the
area. No major livestock diseases were reported
at the time of this assessment. However, farmers
reported deaths of their livestock due to hunger.
Okatana Constituency: Farmers in this area are
said to be in need of seeds, since most of them
were unable to retain seeds from last season’s
poor harvest. According to the interviewed
farmers, last season was a drought year and both
the amount of seeds obtained at household level
is very low and quality thereof is poor. Farmers
are however making regular visits to their ADC
in search for seeds. At the time of the assessment,
the first consignment of Pearl Millet and
Sorghum subsidy seeds has just arrived and are
yet to be sold to farmers. Free seeds under the
Drought Relief Program have not yet arrived in
when the assessment team visited the
constituency. A carryover stock of fertilizers
(NPK, Urea and Ammonium Sulphate) from last
season is currently available at the ADC and new
stock for this season has not yet arrived. On
ploughing services, the majority of farmers use
tractors and draught animals to cultivate their
crop fields. Draught animals were reported to be
weak due to serious drought condition and are
not really fit for ploughing services. Furthermore,
labor is generally available in terms of family
members as well as hired labour.
On the marketing of crop produce, majority of
farmers reported that due to the poor harvest
experienced last season they were unable to
obtain surplus, hence they could not sell the
produce. However, some farmers were able to
sell some of their cattle as part of rangeland
drought management measure. On the household
food security, the situation was reported to be
critical as majority of farmers are said to have
finished their last season’s harvest and are
currently dependent on the market and
government drought relief foods for food access.
On the livestock health, no major livestock
diseases were reported at the time of the
assessment, except drought related conditions
which include; retained placenta, prolapsed
uterus, still birth and Dystocia.
Okatjali Constituency: Majority of farmers
indicated that they were unable to retain
sufficient good quality seeds due to the poor
harvest last season. Many farmers are reportedly
making regular visits at the ADC in search for
seeds which at the time of the assessment were
not yet available in the area. Moreover, farmers
were busy registering in the government dry land
crop production subsidy program. At the time of
this assessment, this area have not yet received
productive rainfall and farmers were almost done
with clearing their crop fields for cultivation, just
waiting for sufficient rainfall for them to start
cultivation. However, draught animals were
reported to be in a very poor condition and not
available for ploughing services. Many farmers
are reported to have lost some of their livestock
due to drought this year. On cultivating
implements, most farmers have hand hoes and
only some with own ploughs. On labour issues,
majority of farmers make use of family members
for agricultural activities and about five weeding
groups have been registered to take part in
weeding subsidy services. However farmers
claimed that these groups are few and not easily
accessible due to the high demand.
On the marketing aspects, farmers indicated that,
they could not sell some of their produce from
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last season due to the poor harvest. On
household food security, the majority of
households has depleted their harvest of last
season and is now relying on the market as well
as on drought relief foods for food access. On
livestock health, no major livestock diseases
were reported at the time of the assessment.
However farmers reported livestock death which
occurred due to drought related cases as
livestock are starving since the pasture is very
poor.
Ompundja Constituency: Due to drought
condition experienced last season, majority of
farmers were unable to retain sufficient good
quality seeds. At the time of the assessment, both
subsidy and free seeds have not yet arrived in the
constituency. Farmers indicated that the
constituency received little rains and as a result
the moisture was not sufficient for ploughing.
Most farmers are hopeful that good rainfall will
come in December and they will be able to start
ploughing. Farmers in this area use draught
animals, tractors and hand hoes to cultivate their
crop fields. However, at the time of this
assessment, draft animals were said to be weak
and not fit for ploughing services. Nevertheless,
it was reported that private tractors are many in
this area and farmers have indicated that they
have easy access to them. Government tractor
assigned to this constituency is also expected to
resume its services once productive rainfalls
have been received. Most Farmers in this area
use livestock manure to fertilize their crop fields.
Family members as well as hired labor are
commonly used to weed crop fields. It was also
reported that, weeding groups are expected to
partake in the weeding subsidy services this
season. On the household food security, the
situation was reported to be weakening as most
households are reported to have finished their
harvest last season and are now dependent on the
market and drought relief foods for food access.
On the livestock health, no major livestock
diseases were reported at the time of the
assessment. However, farmers reported that they
are losing their livestock to drought, especially
cattle and donkeys.
Ondangwa Constituency: Most farmers in this
constituency indicated that they were unable to
retain seeds due to serious drought conditions
experienced last season. As a results the demand
for seeds both improved and traditional seed
varieties is very high. At the time of this
assessment, improved seeds have not yet been
received in the area and farmers are reported to
be visiting the ADC regularly in search for the
seeds. The extension official responsible for this
constituency has indicated that, improved seeds
have not yet been received in the area. With
regards to fertilizers, it was reported that, the
ADC has a carryover stock from last season
which they have already started selling to
farmers, while waiting for the new consignment
to arrive. Meanwhile, registration of farmers in
the government dry land crop production subsidy
program was still ongoing at the time of the
assessment.
Most farmers in this constituency make use of
tractors to plough their crop fields. It was
reported that there is a significant number of
private tractors known to be operating in this
area. In addition, the constituency is assigned a
government tractor since which is expected to
resume ploughing services, once enough rainfall
have been received. On the household food
security, the situation is said to be weakening as
most households are said to have depleted their
last season’s poor harvest and now dependent on
the market and drought relief foods for food
access. With regards to livestock health, cases of
internal parasite particularly in goats were
widely reported in the constituency. Moreover,
other cases reported are related to inadequate
nutrition and this includes Dystocia, retained
placenta and vaginal prolapsed. Livestock and
pasture conditions are reported to be in poor
conditions. Many farmers are reported to have
lost some of their livestock to the prevailing
drought conditions.
Ongwediva Constituency: Farmers in this area
indicated that they were unable to obtain
sufficient good quality seeds, following poor
harvest last season. At the time of the assessment,
majority of farmers are reportedly making
regular visit at the ADC in search for seed, but to
no avail. However, according to the Agricultural
Extension Official responsible for this area,
subsidy seeds had just arrived in the region
recently and they are yet to collect their share
very soon for farmer’s easy access. Free seeds
were also still being awaited and will be
distributed to farmers for free once it has arrived
in the area. Farmers in this area use draught
animal powers, tractors and hand hoes to
cultivate their crop fields. Most farmers
interviewed indicated that their land is sufficient
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and suitable for crop production. Most farmers
do not use fertilizer, but rather use livestock
manure to fertilize their crop fields.
With regards to selling of mahangu grains, most
households interviewed have indicated that, they
did not sell, due to lack of surplus. On livestock
situation, it was reported that, livestock
particularly cattle and donkeys are succumbing
to drought and many farmers have lost some of
their animals. Although, water for livestock is
enough, grazing area is said to be very poor. On
the household food security, it was reported that
the situation is flagging as many households are
reported to have depleted their last season’s poor
harvest and are now dependent on the market
and drought relief foods for food access.
Oshakati East Constituency: Despite a slight
delay in the onset of the 2013/2014 rainfall
season, most farmers are in need of seeds for
both cereal and non-cereal crops. According to
farmers, it was very difficult if not impossible
for them to obtain sufficient good quality seeds,
following serious drought conditions which
dominated the season. Many farmers therefore
makes regular visit to the ADC in search for
seeds. At the time of the assessment, the ADC
was still waiting for the seeds which have just
arrived in the region and have not yet distributed.
Farmers in the area use draught animal powers,
tractors and hand hoes to cultivate their crop
fields. Moreover, many farmers are reported to
have registered to participate in the
government’s dry land crop production subsidy
programs.
On the livestock health, no major livestock
diseases were reported in the area at the time of
this assessment. However, farmers are
complaining about hunger for their livestock and
other conditions related to drought. Some
farmers have reported that they have lost some of
their livestock due to the prevailing severe
drought conditions. With regards to household
food security, the situation is said to have
weakened as many household are reported to
have depleted their last season’s harvest and are
now dependent on the market and government
drought relief foods for food supply.
Oshakati west constituency: Despite enough
availability of tractor services in the constituency,
majority of farmers are in need of seeds.
Following the drought and subsequent poor
harvest last season, most farmers if not all were
unable to retain seeds for both cereal and non-
cereal crops. Most farmers in this area use
livestock manure to fertilize their crop fields.
With regards to the use of fertilizers, the
constituency reported that, the demand for the
use of fertilizers has increased as compared to
the past years. Draught animals are reported to
be in poor body condition and many farmers are
reported to have lost their livestock due to
prevailing drought conditions. Furthermore,
labour is also available in terms of both family
members and hired labor. Farmers have further
indicated that cultivation tools are in place and
ready for the season, waiting to be used
especially once productive rainfall is received.
On household food security, the majority of
farmers are reported to have finished their last
season’s harvest are currently dependent on the
mark and government drought relief foods for
food access. No livestock diseases were reported
at the time of the assessment. However drought
related conditions as well as deaths due to
drought were widely reported in the area. At the
time of the assessment, various parts of this
constituency are still dry and no significant
rainfall received yet.
Uuvudhiya constituency: Most farmers in this
area were unable to retain sufficient good quality
seeds from the previous season, due to drought.
Farmers are reported to be visiting the ADC
regularly, in search for seeds. At the time of the
assessment, both free and subsidized seeds have
not yet arrive in the constituency. Furthermore,
livestock manure is mostly used in this area and
fertilizers are rarely used. At the time of this
assessment the local ADC still has a carryover
stock of fertilizers from the previous season, as
the demand for fertilizers is very low. On
ploughing services, two private tractors are
known to be operating in this area and these
tractors did not participate in the government
ploughing last season, apparently because of the
delay in payments by the government. At the
time of this assessment no tractor has been
registered yet for the government ploughing
subsidy services. Furthermore, government
tractor assigned to this constituency is expected
to resume its services soon and many farmers
have started to register. Majority of farmers in
this area use mainly draught animals to cultivate
their crop fields. On agricultural implements, the
majority of farmers are reported to have
implements such as ploughs and hand hoes ready.
On the marketing aspect, it was reported that
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farmers did not sell their Mahangu grains to
NAB this year since there were no surplus.
However, some farmers sold their cattle as part
of the rangeland drought management measures
and claimed the livestock marketing incentives
from the government. On the livestock health,
this constituency is heavy overstock with cattle
from Oshana, Omusati, Oshikoto and
Ohangwena region and at the time of the
assessment, cattle were still dying as drying as
drought conditions intensify. It was reported that,
livestock were dying due to poor grazing
conditions as well as water shortages in the area.
Farmers reported that some of their livestock are
weak to the extent that they are unable to wake
up on their own and as such they have to be
assisted. Most cattle herd in this area use to take
their livestock to Oponona Lake for water supply,
but the lake was also drying up due to drought
conditions. Rotten carcasses of livestock,
particularly cattle were seen lying around the
lake and some weak cattle failing to wake up
were also seen along the lake. Furthermore, cases
of internal parasites were widely reported
especially in donkeys.
On the household food security, most households
are reported to have depleted their last season’s
poor harvest and are currently dependent on the
market purchases and government drought relief
foods for food access.
Oshikoto Region
Constituencies
Eengodi Constituency: Most farmers in this
constituency were unable to obtain good quality
seeds due to poor harvest experienced last season.
Farmers further reported that, there was a slight
delay in the onset of the 2013/2014 crop season.
At the time of the assessment, this area was still
dry and productive rainfall has not yet been
received. Most farmers in this area uses draft
animal to cultivate their crop fields, which
according to farmers are weak and unfit for
ploughing services. However, some farmers are
reported to have taken some of their livestock
including draught animal to cattle posts for better
grazing conditions.
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At the time of the assessment, the region was in a process of making transport
arrangements to collect their pearl millet seeds from the Northern Namibia Seed
Growers Cooperative in Mahenene in the Omusati region. The region further
reported that it has a carryover stock of sorghum and maize seeds as well as fertilizers
from last season and they have already started selling to the farmers. The region further
reported that they are still waiting for the free seeds under the government Drought
Relief Program as well as new stock of fertilizers to arrive. Government tractors are
reported to be ready for ploughing services and are expected to be dispatched to various
constituency once sufficient rainfall have been received. Private tractors as well as
weeding groups are also expected to participate in the government ploughing and
weeding subsidy services respectively. However, farmers indicated their concern about
the poor condition of draught animals which according to them drought animals are
currently weak and may not be available immediately for ploughing services. Majority
of farmers especially in the eastern part of the region use draught animal power to
cultivate their crop fields. Moreover, many farmers have registered for the government
ploughing subsidy services. Furthermore, seeds are stingily available at household level
as many farmers were unable to retain sufficient good quality seeds from last season’s
harvest due to drought situation. With regards to household food security, the situation
is fragile as the number of food insecure people is on the rise. According to most
household interviewed, their little harvest from last season’s poor harvest has been
depleted and is now dependent on the market and drought relief foods for food access.
Although, government drought relief food distribution is taking place in the region, the
Regional Councilors’ Office indicated that the amount of food received monthly is not
enough when compared to the rising number of food insecure people in the region. As a
result, the distribution of food to registered beneficiary is done on alternate basis, that if
a beneficiary received food this month, he/she will only receive after two or three
months. On the livestock health, no major livestock diseases were reported except
drought related conditions such as while internal parasite in goats were widely reported
in most parts of the region.
With regards to marketing of pearl millet grains,
farmers indicated that there were no surpluses to
sell due to poor harvest last season. No major
livestock diseases were reported at the time of
the assessment. However, farmers reported that
they have lost some of their livestock due to
drought and hoping for better rainfall
performance this season in order to revive their
animals. On the household food security, the
situation is said to be weakening since most
households are reported to have depleted their
harvest and are now dependent on the market
and drought relief food for food access.
Guinas Constituency: Most farmers in this area
were unable to retain enough good quality seeds,
following poor harvest last season. Farmers are
reportedly making regular visits to the ADC in
search for seeds which were not yet available at
the time of this assessment. The local ADC
indicated that, they were still waiting for both
improved and drought relief seeds to arrive in the
region so that they can take their share in order
to distribute it to farmers. The ADC further
indicated that they have a carryover stock of
fertilizers from last season which they have
already started selling to farmers. Draught
animals are commonly used in this area for
ploughing and weeding, but these animals are
reported to be weak due to the prevailing drought
conditions. Many farmers are said to have lost
some of their livestock to drought. Furthermore,
private tractors are hardly found in this area and
the government tractor assigned to this
constituency does not meet the rising demand
from the farmers for ploughing services. On
agricultural implements farmers reported that
their tools are okay and ready for the season.
Furthermore, labour is available but hired labour
is only available to farmers who can afford to
pay for services rendered.
On the marketing aspect, farmers indicated that
there was no surplus to sell, since the harvest
was poor last season. However, some farmers
sold some of their livestock as part of the
rangeland drought management program. The
food security is weakening as most households
are reported to have finished their little harvest
from last season and are currently dependent on
the market and drought relief foods for food
access. No major livestock diseases were
reported at the time of this assessment, except
drought related conditions and deaths due to
drought.
Okankolo Constituency: Most farmers in this
area indicated that they were unable to obtain
sufficient good quality seeds due to drought
conditions experienced last season. At the time
of this assessment, subsidy as well as free seeds
has not yet been received in the area. However, it
was reported that, the ADC has limited quantity
of fertilizers in stock which they already have
started selling to the farmers. Farmers further
reported that, there is a delay in the start of the
2013/2014 rain season. According to farmers, no
significant rainfall was received since the
beginning of the rain season in October.
Most farmers in this area use draught animals to
cultivate their crop fields, but at the time of this
assessment, draught animals are reported to be
weak and unfit for ploughing services. Farmers
however, expressed their skepticisms about the
availability of draught animals and indicated that
there is a shortage of tractor services in the area.
There are about two private tractors known to be
operating in the area, just in addition to
government tractor. No major livestock diseases
were reported at the time of the assessment.
However, most of the livestock cases reported
are related to hunger and this include: Dystocia
and retained placenta in cattle as well as deaths
due to drought. With regards to household food
security, the situation was reported to be fragile
as there majority of households are reported to
have depleted the little they have harvested from
last seasons’ poor harvest and are now dependent
on the market and government drought relief
foods for food access.
Olukonda constituency: The majority of
farmers in this constituency reported that they
don’t have seeds retained from the previous
season following the poor harvest and by the
time of this assessment farmers were busy
registering at the councilor’s office for free GRN
seeds. Furthermore, some farmers indicated that
they are eagerly waiting to buy subsidized seeds
from their local ADC. Moreover, the demand for
fertilizers is not high in comparison to the
demand of seeds and majority of farmers make
use of kraal manure, however there are some
farmers who also make use of fertilizers. The
majority of farmers indicated that the condition
of draught animal power is poor hence not yet fit
to plough and farmers reported that they will
rather prefer tractor services for ploughing.
Furthermore, by the time of this assessment, six
private tractor owners registered for ploughing
35
services which will be supplemented by one
GRN tractor and the demand is high. The
majority of farmers indicated that they were busy
with clearing, spreading kraal manure in their
crop fields as well as dry planting during the
assessment period and which they reportedly
started during November. On ploughing
implements, the majority of farmers indicated
that they have hand hoes and only few farmers
who have ploughs as the majority of farmers
prefer tractors for ploughing activities.
Furthermore, farmers also indicated that the
common means of labour are family members as
well as weeding groups and by the time of this
assessment, three weeding groups had registered
in order to take part in weeding subsidy services.
On the marketing aspect, the majority of farmers
were not able to sell some of their produce due to
the poor harvest of last season. Furthermore,
household food security was reported to be poor,
since the majority of households have depleted
their harvest and is depending on the marketing
for food access as well on drought relief food.
On livestock health, the majority of farmers
indicated that no major livestock diseases were
experienced. However, drought related cases are
common following the poor grazing due to
drought as well as overgrazing in the
constituency, which results in livestock being
weak and eventually some are dying.
Omuntele Constituency: Like other
constituencies in the region, majority of farmers
were unable to retain sufficient good quality
seeds from last season due to drought
experienced last seasons. At the time of the
assessment, the ADC was still waiting for both
subsidy and free seeds. No significant amount of
rainfall received and most parts of this area was
still dry. A carryover stock of fertilizers from last
season was still available at the ADC. It was
further reported that, most farmers in this area
used livestock manure rather than inorganic
fertilizers. Three private tractors were registered
to participate in the government ploughing
subsidy services this season as compared to
about six tractors last season. Additionally, the
government tractor is reported to be on standby
and is expected to start ploughing services, once
enough rainfall is received. Farmers use both
tractors and drought animals to cultivate their
crop fields. At the time of the assessment,
livestock including draught animals were
reported in poor to very poor conditions and
according to farmers, draft animals are not fit for
ploughing service. One weeding group was
registered to partake in the government weeding
subsidy services, and more groups are expected
to follow suit.
With regards to household food security, the
situation is reported to be weakening as most
households are reported to have depleted their
food stock from last season’s harvest and are
currently dependent on the market and or
drought relief foods for food supply. On the
livestock health, cases of internal parasites in
both goats and donkeys were widely reported in
the constituency. No major livestock diseases
were reported at the time of the assessment.
However, farmers indicated that the problem
they are facing is hunger for their livestock due
to drought which is said to have claimed the
lives of many livestock.
Omuthiya Constituency: Farmers in this area
reported that they were unable to obtain
sufficient good quality seed due to severe
drought conditions experienced last season.
Nevertheless, this constituency has just received
their first seed consignment and was in the
process of informing the farmers about the
availability of seeds at the ADC. With regards to
fertilizers, the ADC has limited carryover stock
from last season which they had already started
selling to farmers, while waiting for a new stock
to arrive. On ploughing services, draught animals
were reported to be weak and unfit for ploughing
services. In addition to the government tractor,
two private tractors were registered to participate
in the government ploughing subsidy scheme as
compared to three last seasons. However,
farmers are skeptical about the reliability of
tractor services due to the high demand in the
area. At the time of the assessment, the majority
of farmers were busy with spreading kraal
manure in their crop fields, fencing their crop
fields, and waiting for the rain to start. At the
time of this assessment five weeding groups had
been registered to participate in the government
weeding subsidy scheme. Last season, only two
weeding groups took part in weeding services.
On the marketing aspect, majority of farmers did
not sell their crop produce indicating that, the
harvest was very poor because of drought last
season. On the household food security, the
situation was reported to be weakening as most
households are reported to have finished up food
stock from own production and are now
dependent on the market and government
36
drought relief foods for food access. Regarding
the livestock issues, body condition is reported to
be poor in most places and very poor in other
areas. Livestock diseases reported included Gall
sickness and Botulism were reported in
Onashikuvu villages and the surrounding area.
Farmers indicated that, no major disease reported,
except hunger and its concomitants
circumstances. Many farmers are reported to
have lost some of their livestock due to drought.
Onayena constituency: The majority of farmers
indicated that they don’t have seeds and by the
time of this assessment, farmers were busy
registering for free GRN seeds. However, there
are few farmers who indicated that they only
have few seeds, which they will need to
supplement by buying subsidized seeds at their
local ADC. Furthermore, kraal manure is
commonly used by the majority of farmers in
their crop fields; however there are some farmers
who also make use of fertilizers. The conditions
of draught animal power were reported to be in
fair condition and farmers were optimistic that as
the season progresses the draught animals will be
fit for ploughing. Furthermore, the majority of
farmers indicated that they make use of either
GRN or private tractor services or draught
animals for ploughing activities. Moreover, by
the time of this assessment, the majority of
farmers were busy with fencing as well as
spreading kraal manure in their crop fields.
On ploughing implements, the majority of
farmers indicated that they have hand hoes and
ploughs readily available for the cropping season.
On labour issues, the majority of farmers
reported that family members, hired labour as
well as weeding groups are commonly used in
the constituency for agricultural activities and by
the time of this assessment, 15 weeding groups
had registered for subsidized weeding services.
On the marketing aspect, the majority of farmers
reported that they could not sell some of their
produce due to the poor harvest of last season.
Furthermore, household food security was
reported to be poor as the majority of farmers
indicated that they are receiving drought relief
food as well as relying on the market for food
access. On livestock health, farmers reported that
there are no major livestock diseases experienced
in the constituency, however livestock are
recovering from the devastating drought
following few showers received in the
constituency and farmers indicated that the
pasture is also recovering.
Oniipa Constituency: Farmers indicated that
they don’t have seeds following last season’s
poor harvest, however they are hoping to buy
seeds at the local ADC as soon as possible when
seeds will be made available at the ADC.
Furthermore, farmers in this ward indicated that
they usually make use of both kraal manure as
well as fertilizers. Moreover, the condition of
draught animal power is very weak, however the
majority of farmers indicated that they usually
make use of either GRN or private tractors
services for ploughing activities since draught
animal power are rarely used in this ward.
Furthermore, by the time of this assessment, four
private tractor owners had registered for
ploughing services this season, which is
supplemented by one GRN tractor and the
demand is very high this season, given the poor
condition of draught animal power. Moreover,
by the time of this assessment, farmers were
busy spreading kraal manure in their crop fields,
fencing as well as some farmers had started with
dry planting, which they reportedly started
during October. On ploughing implements, the
majority of farmers have hand hoes, however
some farmers don’t own ploughs but they
usually hire from others. Furthermore, the
majority of farmers make use of hired labour as
well as family members for agricultural activities.
On the marketing aspect, the majority of farmers
indicated that the harvest was very low last
season as a result they could not sell some of
their produce. Furthermore, on household food
security, the majority of households have
depleted their produce of last season and by the
time of this assessment they were depending on
the market for food access as well as on drought
relief food. On livestock health, no major
livestock diseases were reported by farmers,
however farmers experienced livestock death due
to drought related cases. Lastly, the pasture is
generally poor, however by the time of this
assessment, few showers were received in the
ward and farmers were optimistic that the pasture
is recovering as the season progresses.
Onyaanya Constituency: Due to a poor crop
harvest obtained last season, majority of farmers
were unable to obtain enough seeds for this
season. As a result, farmers make regular visits
to their local ADC in search of seeds. At the time
of this assessment, subsidy as well as free seeds
have not yet arrive in the area. Moreover,
37
farmers noted that there has been a delay in the
onset of the rain which according to them
productive rainfall have not yet been received by
the time of this assessment. It was reported that,
this constituency has a significant numbers of
private tractors operating in the area and many of
them do partake in the government ploughing
subsidy program. In addition, government tractor
assigned to this area is also said to be on standby,
waiting for enough rainfall for it’s to start the
ploughing services. Many farmers are reported to
have registered for this service as well as other
subsidy services such as seeds and fertilizers.
Farmers use both animal draught power animals
and tractors to cultivate their crop fields.
Regarding the sale of surplus, most farmers
could not sell their crop harvests due to lack of
surplus, following poor harvest last season.
However, on the livestock sale, some farmers
sold some of their livestock as part of the
rangeland drought management program and
claimed the subsidy from the government. The
household food security was reported to be
weakening as most households are said to have
depleted their own production and are currently
dependent on the market and or drought relief
foods for food. Livestock conditions are reported
to range between fair and very poor. Farmers
reported that, they have lost some of their
livestock due to prevailing drought conditions in
the area. With regards to livestock health, no
major livestock diseases were reported except
hunger for livestock as well as drought related
conditions such as retained placenta, stillbirth,
vaginal prolapse, Dystocia, particularly in cattle.
38
8. CONCLUSION AND RECOMENDATIONS
The main findings of the assessment are that: The country is still suffering from the
effects of serious drought which have started last season, affecting the agricultural
production negatively. As a result, household food security situation is fragile and
weakening in the regions, most households are reported to have finished their little last
season’s harvest between July and August this year and are currently dependent on the
market and government drought relief foods for food access. Last season’s poor harvest
has leads to serious shortages of seeds both at individual farmer’s level and regional level.
Poor grazing conditions were reported in the regions and the situation is exacerbated by a
delay in the start of the rainfall. To this end, majority of farmers are reported to have lost
many of their livestock to drought. Water shortages for livestock due to drought
conditions were also been in most parts of the country. Based on these findings, the
following strategies (but not limited to) are suggested for possible interventions and
future assistance to improve agricultural production:
For the weakening food security situation, it is thus suggested that the drought
relief food program should continue especially to the most vulnerable groups
affected by food deficits until such a time that, the affected people are able to
regain their normal livelihoods, pending the outcomes of the 2013/2014
agricultural production.
The Directorate of Research and Training, Directorate of Extension and
Engineering Services (DEES) as well as the Directorate Disaster Risk
Management in the Office of the Prime Minister are urged to procure and provide
seeds to the affected farmers.
Provision of timely support in the form of subsidies with agricultural inputs such
as seed, fertilizers, draft animals, tractors, ploughing and weeding services by the
DEES is strongly advised
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The National Early Warning and Food Information Unit of the Directorate of Planning
use information from various institutions and organisations within Namibia in order to
compile this report. In no particular order, this report was compiled with the aid of
primary information and reports sourced from the following Institutions and
Organisations.
Directorate of Extension and Engineering Services (DEES)
Directorate of Research and Training (DRT)
Regional Councils
Namibian Agronomic Board (NAB)
Northern Namibia Farmers Seed Growers’ Cooperative
Likwama Farmers Association
Meteorological Services of Namibia
Directorate of Disaster Risk Management
Directorate of Veterinary Services
Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA)
40