Farmers continue to demand market access

The eighth congress of the Namibia National Farmers’ Union (NNFU) that took place in Opuwo in the Kunene Region over the weekend has elected a new leadership that will lead the union for communal farmers for the next three years.A northern farmer and businessman, Jason Emvula, who served as commodity coordinator in the Oshana Regional Farmers’ Union, was elected as the new president of the NNFU. He takes over from Tobias Emvula also from the Oshana union.NNFU members from affiliate regional bodies in 13 regions came together in Opuwo to discuss issues affecting communal farmers. Farmers were also afforded an opportunity to consult with stakeholders on Friday before elections on Saturday. Lack of access to functioning and lucrative markets, especially in the northern communal areas, and a need for local produce consumption were the key issues that dominated the discussions.NNFU executive director Mwilima Mushokobanji spoke to Namibian Sun this week. He said that before the congress and election, information sharing with stakeholders was conducted.“Farmers from 13 regions, excluding Khomas, attended the session which has allowed organisations in the farming sector to share their strategy and policies with farmers. The aim is to bring good governance and make farming easier, especially for communal farmers,” Mushokobanji said.He said that information-sharing was crucial for communal farmers who do not have a title deed for their land. He added that it is difficult for these farmers to access financial assistance.“We also deliberated the issue of creating a viable market for our farmers throughout the country. This will include opportunities for our farmers to supply their produce to local consumers, especially government institutions such as schools, hospital, correctional facilities and the domestic market including retailers. This will boost production among our farmers.”NNFU secretary Ellen Kalundu from Zambezi is the only executive member who retained her position. Other new members are Oiva Mahina from the Kavango West Region as vice-president, Patricia Grubes from Hardap as vice-secretary, Amon Kapi from Kunene North as treasurer, Kristian Hango from Omusati as vice-treasurer. Additional members are Kativa Thimoteus from Kavango East, Thomas Nakanyala and Yvonne !Awases from Kunene South.Meatco, the Agro-Marketing and Trading Agency (AMTA), Meat Board of Namibia, Agricultural Business Development Agency (AGRIBUSDEV) and Agribank, are among stakeholders who engaged farmers during the congress.The new president promised fight for the benefit of the communal farmers who have been neglected in the past.“If you look at our communal farmers they are they are very poor, but they are the producers. We as national farmers we need to put aside out differences and unite for the benefit of all of us. Our farmers need access to markets and also benefits from local consumers. That is what will be my focus area for the next three years,” Emvula said.ILENI NANDJATO

Farmers continue to demand market access

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-07-01

Please login to leave a comment

Farmers continue to demand market access

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-07-01

Please login to leave a comment

Login