Staff Reporter
NAMIBIA and the United States are strengthening cooperation in the livestock sector as the country seeks alternative sources of high-quality breeding stock and reproductive material amid regional livestock disease challenges that have disrupted traditional supply chains.
The Livestock and Livestock Products Board of Namibia (LLPBN), in partnership with the Namibian Stud Breeders Association (NSBA), this week hosted a multi-day roadshow with representatives from the US Livestock Genetics Export (USLGE) organisation and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA/FAS).
The engagement brought together US livestock industry representatives, officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, Namibian breeders and other agricultural stakeholders to explore opportunities for expanded trade, technical cooperation and improved access to superior breeding genetics.
Photos: U.S. Embassy Namibia
Livestock producers, particularly stud breeders and commercial farmers, have faced increasing pressure to secure quality breeding animals as ongoing disease outbreaks in the region continue to affect traditional sources of supply.
The delegation, led by USDA/FAS Minister Counselor of Agricultural Affairs Oliver Flake, met with LLPBN and NSBA leadership to gain insight into Namibia’s stud breeding industry and its priorities.
During the visit, the delegation toured several breeding operations around Windhoek, including a Wagyu ranch and private stockbreeding facilities, and visited the University of Namibia’s Neudamm Agricultural College to observe local approaches to herd improvement, quality management and disease resilience.
The visit concluded with an industry engagement in Windhoek, where Namibian breeders and US representatives discussed practical opportunities for the import and export of breeding animals and reproductive material.
LLPBN identified the United States as a key potential alternative source of quality breeding stock for Namibian producers seeking to strengthen herd genetics while navigating current regional disease challenges.
The two sides also expressed interest in developing long-term cooperation through technical exchanges, joint training initiatives, shared best practices in herd health and breed improvement, and closer collaboration between animal husbandry experts from both countries.
LLPBN said the engagement represents more than a once-off visit, describing it as the foundation for a lasting partnership aimed at strengthening Namibia’s ability to safeguard and expand its livestock industry.
The US delegation’s visit to Namibia forms part of a broader regional tour that also includes Zambia and Zimbabwe, with a focus on expanding agricultural trade partnerships and promoting scientific cooperation across the region.
