Oshikoto farmer taps wetland potential to grow rice

A handful of Oshikoto farmers have turned their attention to cultivating rice, highlighting its potential as a successful crop that thrives in waterlogged conditions.

“I understand that many subsistence farmers primarily focus on growing pearl millet, but I encourage those with waterlogged areas to consider intercropping, allowing them to benefit from both crops,” Selma Saima Iyambo, who has taken up rice farming recently, told Namibian Sun.

Iyambo, who lives in Oniiwe A Village in the Oshikoto region, has, since last year, successfully utilised a waterlogged area in her field to grow rice.

Iyambo took part in a rice training programme at Ogongo campus last year, where she learned about soil preparation, planting, harvesting, and market dynamics.

“Initially, I hesitated to start because I doubted whether rice could thrive in our soil," she said.

"However, after some reflection, I planted in December 2025, and by February this year, I saw promising seedlings, which encouraged me to expand my planting."

She emphasised that rice has a maturity period of only three to four months, allowing her to grow multiple crops in a single year.

Iyambo said rice is highly sought after, and she has had little difficulty in marketing and selling the product.

She knows of three other rice farmers in the Oshikoto region who said they have also reported success, finding ample customers and opportunities to supply local customers, including boarding schools.

Iyambo is determined to continue rice farming and aims to inspire others to follow suit.

Fertile soil

During a rice production information day held in Oniiwe A Village in Oshikoto on Monday, officials pointed out that waterlogged conditions occur in many parts of Namibia, especially the north, during the rainy season.

These areas are well-suited for rice cultivation, as rice thrives in wet conditions. Nevertheless, many farmers tend to abandon these areas, opting instead to cultivate pearl millet in drier soils.

The Namibia International Merchandise Trade Statistics Bulletin, released by the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) in November 2025, reveals that the country imported rice valued at N$421 million from November 2024 to November 2025.

Namibia incurs monthly expenses ranging from N$21 million to N$75 million on rice imports, which the NSA said "is not surprising given the small scale of rice production in Namibia".

Oshikoto governor Sacky Kathindi on Monday underlined the crucial role of agriculture.

He lamented the over-reliance on imported food, despite Namibia’s fertile land and determined workforce.

“This must change. Now is the time for our people, especially the youth, to view agriculture not as a last resort but as a viable business opportunity and a pathway to prosperity,” Kathindi said.

The governor indicated that with land, industrious people, and initiatives like the rice project in Oniiwe A, Namibia can produce enough food not only for the communities but also for the entire nation.

“Oshikoto must be a key contributor to Namibia’s food security and create job opportunities for our people,” he said.

“Every seed planted is an investment in the future, and every harvest is a victory against hunger and poverty,” Kathindi said.

“I urge young people to venture into agriculture; the future lies not only in offices and urban areas but also in the soil.”

Empower each other

Leonard M. Nuugulu, a crop science specialist from the University of Namibia at Ogongo Campus, said they are are prepared to offer training for farmers interested in growing rice.

He urged farmers to work together, embrace innovation, participate in training opportunities and share knowledge with one another.

“Your role is essential not only in feeding communities but also in shaping the future of agriculture in Namibia,” Nuugulu said.

He reaffirmed Unam's commitment to supporting the agricultural sector through research, training, and community engagement initiatives.

NEW VENTURE: Selma Saima Iyambo’s rice crops are ready for harvest. Photos: Loise Shiimi

INNOVATIVE FARMER: Oshikoto governor Sacky Kathindi visits farmer Selma Saima Iyambo’s rice field in Oniiwe A village.

FERTILE SOIL: Attendees at the rice production information day were keen to learn more about farming rice.

FEEDING A NATION: Successfully harvested rice from farmer Selma Saima Iyambo’s crops near her home in Oniiwe A.