Maria David
WITH about 70% of the Namibian population depending on agriculture, the Japanese government has assured northern local farmers of continued assistance.
Japan’s Ambassador to Namibia, Hisao Nishimaki, said that one of their priority areas is uplifting the agricultural sector.
Nishimaki, who was in the Ohangwena Region, visited key project sites and beneficiaries to assess the progress made.
He said this was done in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).
“The region benefited from the emergency response to mitigate multiple shocks and enhance resilient livelihoods in Namibia, which was funded to the tune of over N$22.4 million, as well as an ongoing project amounting to over N$14.1 million,” he said.
He added that they aim to assist local small-scale farmers in the country, as this is essential for the sustainable development of Namibia.
“It is for that reason that Japan has been providing support to Namibia in an effort to reduce poverty and improve livelihoods through agricultural development in the northern region,” he said.
He further said that both initiatives focus on improving livelihoods, food security, and nutrition for vulnerable households, particularly in response to recurrent droughts, climate shocks, and other challenges.
Their project is implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture to improve the livelihoods and basic living conditions of small-scale farmers in the targeted areas.
Meanwhile, Ndeitunga acknowledged the support from the Japanese Embassy towards the region’s inhabitants and was pleased to hear that the beneficiaries are putting the materials provided to good use.
