Maria David
THE Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform has implemented the Rain-fed Agronomic Subsidy Program, also known as the Dryland Crop Production Program (DCPP). This initiative aims to empower small-scale farmers in arid and semi-arid regions by providing financial assistance and technical support for rain-fed crop production.
According to ministry spokesperson Simon Nghipandulwa, the program, which will benefit farmers during the 2024/25 financial year, commenced on 1 November 2024.
Nghipandulwa said that seeds have been transported to Agricultural Development Centers (ADCs), with actual distribution dates to farmers arranged by local technicians or officials in consultation with their respective Regional Councilors.
He explained that pearl millet (mahangu) and sorghum seeds will be sold at N$13.40 per 2kg, with a maximum of 10kg per farming household. Maize seeds will cost N$125 per 5kg, and cowpeas will be sold at N$15 per 2kg.
Furthermore, he said that tractors have been implemented at 80%, have undergone servicing, and their drivers have already signed contracts.
“Regions with available fuel have already started deploying tractors to operational areas, and registration for tractor services has begun through coordination by DAPEES, Regional Councils, and esteemed traditional authorities,” he said.
Nghipandulwa added that the registration of private tractor owners and Draught Animal Power (DAP) owners has commenced, and interested service providers are encouraged to register at agricultural offices in the constituencies where they will render services.
Tractors and other implements will cost N$350 per hectare, with a maximum of 5 hectares per farming household. Walking tractors are available at N$100 per day (plus the farmer’s own fuel), and weeding cultivators cost N$100 per day (plus the farmer’s own fuel).
Regarding land preparation, Nghipandulwa explained that walking planting using the Jab seed driller will cost N$20 per day, and seedling transplanters will also be available at N$20 per day.
The ministry will subsidize 60% of the cost of private tractor services, up to a maximum of N$500 per hectare, and 60% of the cost of Draught Animal Power services, up to a maximum of N$350 per hectare.
For fertilizers, Nghipandulwa said that the government will provide a 60% subsidy, up to a maximum of N$1,000 per 50kg bag purchased from shops. Fertilizers such as Nitrogen Phosphorus Potassium (NPK) and Monoammonium Phosphate (MAP) will be subsidized at N$500 per 50kg bag, while Limestone Ammonium Nitrate (LAN) will be subsidized at N$300 per 50kg bag.
