President sets target to cut food imports by 8% by 2030

Namibia is steadily increasing local food production, but the country still depends heavily on imports to meet national consumption, figures presented in parliament show.

Speaking during the State of the Nation Address (Sona) this week, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said government aims to reduce reliance on imported food by 8% by 2030. 

She pointed out that white maize production more than doubled last season, reaching 69 541 metric tonnes, covering roughly 31% of national consumption. 

Wheat and other cereals also contributed to growing local production, with 609 hectares of wheat planted, generating about N$10.5 million worth of produce.

Nandi-Ndaitwah noted that the livestock sector remains a key source of employment, supporting approximately 70% of the population.

It provides more than 45 000 jobs in primary production and an additional 12 000 technical roles. The sector also contributes to export earnings, with agricultural products valued at N$2 billion shipped abroad, primarily table grapes and tomatoes.

The president outlined government support measures, including subsidised seeds, fertilisers, irrigation solutions and services such as ploughing, planting and weeding.

Large-scale initiatives, such as the planned 130 000 hectares of productive land, are underway, alongside investments in ventures like a joint salmon farming project on the southern coast, projected to produce between 1 000 and 51 000 tonnes over seven years with an estimated N$2.5 million investment.

Large gaps remain

However, not all indicators suggest immediate progress. In an article published by Namibian Sun last month, Affirmative Repositioning (AR) leader Dr Job Amupanda told lawmakers during the 2026/27 national budget debate that the country remains heavily dependent on imported grains. 

Government data show that 617 hectares of wheat were planted to produce about 3 300 tonnes, meeting just 2% of annual wheat needs.

Rice production reflects a similar gap, with 670 hectares planted to yield roughly 800 tonnes against national consumption approaching 30 000 tonnes per year.

Amupanda also highlighted slow progress in government’s land utilisation plans. Despite the 130 000-hectare target mentioned by the president, only 1 290 hectares had been planted, representing less than 1% of the goal. 

[email protected]