national early warning and food information system€¦ · december 2013 – january-february 2014...

NATIONAL EARLY WARNING

AND

FOOD INFORMATION SYSTEM

Republic of Namibia

AGRICULTURAL INPUTS AND HOUSEHOLD FOOD SECURITY SITUATION REPORT

DECEMBER 2013

HIGHLIGHTS

As it was the case last season, the 2013/2014 cropping season noted a slight delay in the

start of the rainfall season. The normal start of the rain season is usually as from mid

October. At the time of this assessment in November, all the regions have not yet received

productive rains. However, by the end of this assessment and early December, most regions are

reported to have received good showers, enough to trigger cultivation activities.

Inadequate supply and delayed delivery of pearl millet and sorghum seeds from the Seed

Cooperative at Mahenene in the Omusati region were reported in the northern communal

crop producing regions. At the time of this assessment, both subsidy and free seeds for pearl

millet and sorghum have not yet arrived in the regions. It was reported that the Seed Cooperative

in the Omusati region had limited supply of seeds and completed packing and were still waiting

for the directive from the Directorate of Research and Training on the distribution modality.

Pasture conditions from various parts of the regions is said to have deteriorated greatly

and many farmers are reported to have lost some of their livestock due to the prevailing

drought conditions. Many farmers are eagerly waiting for the rain to bring a much needed

relief not only to the improvement of the grazing areas, but also to perk up water availability for

their livestock. Nevertheless, the most likely scenario is that, grazing conditions are expected to

improve as most parts of the regions are reported to have received some good showers lately.

Household food security situation has seemingly weakened and fragile in the regions as

most households have reportedly depleted their last season’s harvest and now dependent

on the market and drought relief foods for food access. According to households interviewed

last season’s harvest only lasted between July and August this year.

Table of Contents 1.0 OVERVIEW .................................................................................................................... 1

2.0 SADC REGIONAL RAINFALL OUTLOOK (OCTOBER 2013 – MARCH 2014)……….2

3.0 SEASONAL RAINFALL OUTLOOK FOR NAMIBIA (OCTOBER 2013 – MARCH 2014)……….6

4.0 FOOD SECURITY SITUATION .................................................................................... 9

6.0 PASTURE AND LIVESTOCK CONDITIONS ........................................................... 11

7.0 CROP PRODUCTION OUTLOOK FOR 2013/2014 CROP SEASON ....................... 12

8.0 SITUATION BY REGION ........................................................................................... 15

10.0 CONCLUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ........................................................ 39

9.0 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ........................................................................................... 40

1. OVERVIEW

The National Early Warning & Food Information Unit (NEWFIU) in collaboration with its cooperating

partners carried out the abovementioned assessment in the six northern communal crop producing

regions1 as from 4

th to 29

th November 2013. The main purpose of this assessment was to assess the

overall agricultural inputs situation at household and regional levels and to find out as to what extend

farmers are prepared for the 2013/14 crop season in terms of land preparation. Moreover the mission

assessed changes in household food security, marketing of the 2012/2013 harvest, livestock and pasture

conditions.

The assessment team visited the Regional Council and was briefed by the Regional Council

Management team who provided information among other things, current household food security as

well as progress on the agricultural season. The assessment team proceeded to the Regional Agricultural

Extension Office where they were briefed by the Chief Agricultural Scientific Officer and Chief

Agricultural Extension Technicians before proceeding to constituencies in each of the northern

communal crop producing regions. Information of each constituency was obtained from both primary

(field observation & farmers’ interviews) and secondary sources (agricultural extension officials,

Regional Councillors, NGOs, Farmer’s Organizations, Namibian Agronomic Board (NAB), Directorate

of Veterinary Services, Local Traders, Traditional Authorities, etc).

During the field visit in each constituency, the teams were brief by Agricultural Extension Technician

who provided an overview of the agricultural situation in view of the upcoming crop season. The

briefing meetings were followed by field visits to three to four randomly selected households in each

constituency for an interview. Interviews were also held with the formal and informal traders working in

the area.

This report however, gives an overview of the agricultural inputs and land preparation during the current

cropping season. The report is aimed at providing the latest information to the government of the

Republic of Namibia, International Organizations and other Institutions involved in humanitarian

operation. Since conditions may change rapidly, please contact the NEWFIU for further information if

required.

1 Crop producing regions included Caprivi, Kavango, Omusati, Ohangwena, Oshana and Oshikoto region

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2. SADC REGION SEASONAL RAINFALL OUTLOOK (October

2013 – March 2014) The Seventeenth Southern Africa Regional Climate Outlook Forum (SARCOF 17) was held in Harare,

Zimbabwe as from 28-30 August 2013 to present a consensus outlook for the 2013/2014 rainfall season

over the SADC region. Climate scientists from the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC)

National Meteorological and/or Hydrological Services (NMHSs), the SADC Climate Services Centre

(CSC) formulated this outlook. This outlook covers the major rainfall season from October 2013 to

March 2014. The outlooks are presented in overlapping three-monthly periods as follows: October-

November-December (OND); November-December- January (NDJ); December-January-February (DJF)

and January-February-March (JFM) as presented in Fig 1 and Fig 2 below.

This Outlook is relevant only to seasonal (overlapping three-monthly) time-scales and relatively large

areas and may not fully account for all factors that influence regional and national climate variability,

such as local and month-to-month variations (intra-seasonal). Users are strongly advised to contact the

National Meteorological and Hydrological Services for interpretation of this Outlook, additional

guidance and updates.

According to the forecast, most of the SADC region is likely to receive normal to above-normal rainfall

for the period of October – November - December 2013. However, south-westernmost Angola, coastal areas

of Namibia, west coastal South Africa and northernmost Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are more

likely to receive normal to below-normal rainfall, (figure 1 below). In the November-December 2013-

January 2014 period, bulk of the SADC region is likely to receive normal to above-normal rainfall, while the

greater part of DRC, northernmost and south-western Angola and western fringes of Namibia and South

Africa are likely to receive normal to below-normal rainfall, ( see figure 2 below). Bulk of both contiguous SADC and the islands states of Madagascar and Mauritius are likely to receive

normal to above normal rainfall during December 2013 to February 2014, (Figure 3 below). However, south-

western Angola, most of Namibia, western half of Botswana, most of central and western parts of South

Africa and Lesotho are likely to receive above-normal to normal rainfall while the eastern half of Tanzania is

likely to receive normal to below-normal rainfall.

For the period January to March 2014, the bulk of SADC is expected to receive normal to above-normal

rainfall. However, the tongue stretching from eastern coast of northern Mozambique through central parts of

the region extending to the south western central parts of the region are likely to receive above-normal to

normal rainfall, (see figure 4 below).

2

October-November-December 2013

Figure 1: SADC October – November - December 2013 Rainfall Forecast

Zone 1: Northern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall

Zone 2: Northern Tanzania.

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall

Zone 3: Northern Mozambique, southern Tanzania, northern Malawi, northernmost Zambia, bulk

of DRC and north-western half of Angola.


Zone 4: Central Mozambique, southern Malawi, northern half of Zimbabwe, most of Zambia,

Southern most DRC, south-eastern half of Angola, bulk of Namibia, western half of Botswana,

most of central and western parts of South Africa, western parts of Lesotho.


Zone 5: Extreme south-western Zambia, Caprivi area, south-easternmost Angola, south-western

half of Zimbabwe, eastern half of Botswana, most of northern South Africa, Swaziland and

southern Mozambique.


Zone 6: South-westernmost Angola and western coastal areas of Namibia and South Africa.

Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall

Zone 7: Western Madagascar.


Zone 8: Eastern Madagascar.


Zone 9: Southern Madagascar


Zone 10: Mauritius.


Fig 1: Rainfall forecast for October-December 2013

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November-December 2013 -January 2014

Zone 1: Bulk of DRC and northernmost Angola.

Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall Zone 2: Northernmost Tanzania.

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 3: Northern Mozambique, bulk of Tanzania, northern Malawi, northern and western Zambia, southern

DRC, bulk of Angola, most of Namibia, western half of Botswana, most of central and western parts of

South Africa.

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 4: Southern Zambia, southern Malawi, northern half of Zimbabwe and central parts of Mozambique.

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 5: Southern half of Zimbabwe, eastern half of Botswana, north and central South Africa, Lesotho,

Swaziland and southern Mozambique.

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 6: South-westernmost Angola, western fringes of Namibia and South Africa.

Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall Zone 7: Bulk of Madagascar.


Zone 8: Southernmost Madagascar.

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 9: Mauritius.


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4

Figure 2: SADC November -December 2013 to January 2014 Rainfall Forecast

December 2013 – January-February 2014

Fig 3: Rainfall forecast for December 2013-January-February 2014

Zone 1: DRC, Zambia, Malawi, bulk of Angola, most of Zimbabwe, greater part of Mozambique and

western half of Tanzania.

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 2: Eastern half of Tanzania.

Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall Zone 3: South-western Angola, most of Namibia, western half of Botswana, most of central and western

parts of South Africa and Lesotho.

Increased chances of above-normal to normal rainfall Zone 4: Southern third of Zimbabwe, eastern half of Botswana, north and central South Africa, eastern

Lesotho, Swaziland and southern Mozambique..

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 5: South-western fringe of Namibia and south-western South Africa.

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 6: Western Madagascar.

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 7: Eastern Madagascar.

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 8: Southernmost Madagascar.



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January-February- March 2014

Fig 4: Rainfall forecast for January-February-March 2014 Zone 1: Bulk of DRC and northernmost Angola.

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 2: Northernmost Tanzania.

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 3: Northern Mozambique, bulk of Tanzania, northern Malawi, northern and western Zambia, southern

DRC, bulk of Angola, most of Namibia, western half of Botswana, most of central and western parts of

South Africa and western parts of Lesotho.

Increased chances of above-normal to normal rainfall Zone 4: Southern Zambia, southern Malawi, northern half of Zimbabwe and central parts of Mozambique.


Zone 5: Southern half of Zimbabwe, eastern half of Botswana, north and central South Africa, eastern

Lesotho, Swaziland and southern Mozambique.

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 6: South-westernmost Angola, western fringes of Namibia and South Africa.

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 7: Bulk of Madagascar.

Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall Zone 8: Southernmost Madagascar.



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3. SEASONAL RAINFALL OUTLOOK FOR NAMIBIA (October 2013 –

March 2014)

According to the Meteorological Services of Namibia the rainfall outlook for the period of October to

December 2013 is divided in three regions (fig 3). Region I and III are expected to receive normal to below-

normal rainfall while region II on the other hand is expected to receive normal to above-normal rainfall.

OUTLOOK NORMAL

Figure 5: October to December 2012 Rainfall Forecast

Zone I: Higher likelihood of Below-Normal to Normal Rainfall.

Zone II: Higher likelihood of Normal to Above-Normal Rainfall.

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013 –JANUARY 2014 (NDJ)

OUTLOOK NORMAL

Figure 6: November - December 2013 Rainfall Forecast

Zone I: Higher likelihood of Normal to Below-Normal Rainfall.

Zone II: Higher likelihood of Normal to Above-Normal Rainfall.

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DECEMBER 2013 - JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 (DJF)

OUTLOOK NORMAL

Figure 7: December 2013 – January – February 2014 Rainfall Forecast

Higher likelihood of Above to Normal Rainfall throughout the country.

JANUARY-FEBRUARY-MARCH (JFM) 2014

OUTLOOK NORMAL

Figure 8: January – February – March 2014 Rainfall Forecast

Zone I: Higher likelihood of Above to Normal Rainfall.

Zone II & III: Higher likelihood of Normal to Below-Normal Rainfall.

Source: Meteorological Services of Namibia

8

4. FOOD SECURITY SITUATION

Following a very poor agricultural production caused by severe drought conditions last season,

household food security situation is seemingly fragile in the regions. Most households interviewed have

indicated that, their last season’s poor harvest only lasted between July and August this year. These

household are currently dependent on the market purchases and government drought relief foods for

food access. Some households could not harvest anything from their crop fields, because according to

them the drought conditions were too severe this year.

The household food security situation in the North East (Kavango East, Kavango West and Zambezi

regions) is tightening as most households interviewed in all the constituencies, with exception of Katima

Urban, have indicated that they have depleted their last season harvest last July. Majority of households

are said to be dependent on the market and drought relief foods for food access.

Food security situation in the north central regions (Oshikoto, Oshana, Ohangwena and Omusati) was

noted to be weakening as most households interviewed have indicated that they have depleted their last

season’s harvest and are currently making use of the market and government drought relief foods for

food access.

Meanwhile, further interventions aimed at circumventing food insecurity were made, namely

supplementary feeding and Cash Transfer intervention and are currently being implemented in various

regions in the country.

Food distribution

Government has embarked upon food distribution program to the needy people who were affected by

drought conditions. This program has started from the beginning of August 2013 up to end of March

2014.

Supplementary feeding

This is a targeted feeding response program currently implemented by the Council of Churches in

Namibia (CCN) and Namibia Red-cross Society (NRCS). This program, also called Soup Kitchen,

provides hot meals to the most vulnerable people in all the regions countrywide. The targeted vulnerable

groups included malnourished children, Orphan and Vulnerable children (OVC), the elderly, chronically

ill and people living with HIV/AIDS who are on ARV treatment. Government is allocating food items to

both CCN and NRCS for Soup Kitchen Program.

Cash transfers

This program is targeting the highly food insecure people living in locations with access to resilient

market and who were not otherwise benefiting from regular food distributions. It is being implemented

by ACT Alliance-LWF and is currently being implemented in Hardap, Kunene, Omusati and Kavango

East regions.

In addition, social protection measures from the government remained in place and this include:

Orphan and Vulnerable Children (OVC) maintenance Grant: A monthly grant is given to

OVC to improve their quality of life.

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Emergency food assistance to San communities: The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister

took an initiative to assist the vulnerable San communities with emergency food assistance and

sustainable medium and longer-term activities aimed at enhancing their quality of life.

School Feeding: The Ministry of Education’s school feeding programme seeks to improve the

dietary intake of children whose households have difficulties accessing food. The programme

also contributes to national efforts to increase school enrolment, attendance and the ability to

concentrate and learn.

Old Age Pension : This is the monthly grant given to senior citizen over the age of sixty to help

them afford basic needs and services, thus improve their living standard

War Veteran Grant: This is a monthly grant given by the government to people who were

accorded a war veteran status. The grant is aimed at enabling the beneficiary to access basic

needs and services.

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5. PASTURE AND LIVESTOCK CONDITIONS

Pasture Condition

Pasture conditions from various parts of the regions is said to have deteriorated greatly during the course

of the dry season and has since vary between fair to very poor. Many farmers are reported to have lost

some of their livestock to drought which according to them was very severe this year. Moreover, the

regions noted a slight delay in the start of the rain season, which is expected to bring a much needed

relief not only to the improvement of the grazing areas, but also to perk up water availability,

particularly for livestock. Nevertheless, the most likely scenario is that, grazing conditions are expected

to improve as most parts of the regions are reported to have received some good showers lately.

In the Zambezi region, grazing conditions are reported to be fair to poor in the eastern part of the region

(i.e. Kabbe North and Kabbe South as well as Katima Rural constituencies as well as areas along the

river in the Linyanti and Lyaboloma constituencies), due to higher concentration of animals and range

between fair to good elsewhere in the region. In the Kavango East and Kavango West regions, grazing

conditions were reported to be poor to very poor in areas along the river while elsewhere in the region

the situation is said to be fair to good except some areas that suffered veld fires. Poor grazing conditions

were reported in the north central regions with all the four north central regions equally affected.

However, the situation was reported to be very serious in the cattle post areas, particularly in Uuvudhiya

constituency in Oshana region where many farmers from Omusati, Oshikoto, Ohangwena and Oshana

regions moved their livestock for what it was known as better grazing conditions and now poor due to

overgrazing.

Furthermore, water shortages for livestock were reported in the four north central regions, particularly in

the cattle post areas. According to some interviewed farmers, availability of enough water keeps

livestock in good body condition even if there are no enough grazing materials available

Livestock Condition

Livestock are reported to be in fair to very poor conditions in most parts of the north central regions

where some farmers are reported to have lost some of their cattle due to drought conditions. Livestock

conditions in the four northern regions are reported to range between poor (in areas around the township)

and fair to good in areas around the cattle posts. In the Zambezi, Kavango East and Kavango West

regions, conditions of the livestock are said to range between fair to poor in the Eastern part of Zambezi

region and areas along the river in Kavango East and Kavango West regions, while elsewhere in these

regions, livestock conditions are said to range between fair to good.

With regards to livestock health, no major livestock disease outbreaks were reported in the regions at the

time of this assessment. However, suspected cases of Food and Mouth Disease (FMD) were reported in

the Zambezi region, in Katima rural constituency in particular, Masikili, Kabbe, Ivilivinzi and

Salambala villages, during June this year. Furthermore, it was reported that Kavango West region

experienced unusual number of cases of Black quarter during August/September this year, in Mpungu

and Kahenge constituencies in the Kavango West region. Although this region usually experiences the

problem of Black quarter every year, this year according to the regional Directorate of Veterinary

Services, the situation was more severe when compared with previous years. Additionally, farmers

especially in the north central regions indicated that their livestock are dying of hunger. Many farmers

are reported to have lost some of their livestock due to drought. Furthermore, drought related conditions

were also reported and this included; Dystocia, Retained placenta and virginal prolapsed.

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6. CROP PRODUCTION OUTLOOK FOR 2013/2014 CROP

SEASON

Progress on Land Preparation

As it was the case last season, the 2013/2014 cropping season noted a slight delay in the start of the

rainfall season. The normal start of the rain season is usually as from mid October. However, at the time

of this assessment in November, all the regions have not yet received sufficient rainfall, enough to

trigger cultivation activities. Ploughing and planting activities have not yet started, except river field

farmers in the Zambezi region. Most parts of the regions were still dry and farmers were in full swing

with repairing their fences, kraal manure applications and clearing their crop fields for cultivations.

However, by the end of this assessment and early December, most regions are reported to have received

good showers, enough to trigger cultivation activities. Provisional rainfall outlook for the 2013/2014

rain season according to Meteorological Services of Namibia indicated that the greater part of Namibia

can expect to receive normal to above normal rainfalls during the first part of the season (October-

November-December).

Availability and Access to Agricultural Inputs

In the Zambezi region, basic input such as seeds and fertilizers were available and enough to start the

season. The region received 23.5 tons of maize seeds for distribution to farmers as free seeds. At the

time of the assessment, the region reported that about 10 tons of hybrid maize seeds were distributed to

the river field crop farmers and the remaining 13.5 tons are yet to be distributed to upper land crop field

farmers. In addition, the region indicated that more seed stocks for both maize, pearl millet and sorghum

is still being expected and will be sold to farmers under the government dry land crop production

subsidy program. The region has also indicated that they have limited carry over stock of fertilizers from

last season which is currently being sold to the farmers while waiting for the new stock to arrive.

Furthermore, there are currently five improved seed suppliers of which four are supplying maize seed

varieties and one is only supplying pearl millet and sorghum seed varieties. This included; Kafasepco,

Kamunu, Likwama and Caprivi Business Consultants for maize seeds and Northern Namibia Seed

Growers Cooperative for pearl millet and sorghum seeds.

In the Kavango East and Kavango West regions as well as the north central regions, both subsidy and

free seeds for pearl millet and sorghum have not yet arrived in the regions at the time of this assessment.

It was reported that the Seed Cooperative in the Omusati region had completed packing the seeds and

were still waiting for the directive from the Directorate of Research and Training on the distribution

modality. The demand of improved seeds from the farmers is very high due to a poor harvest received

last season. According to farmers interviewed in these regions, most of them indicated that they were

unable to retain some local seed varieties for both cereal and non-cereal crops, due to severe drought

conditions which have dominated the season. In addition, the Northern Namibia Seed Growers

Cooperative at Mahenene in Omusati region has indicated that they do not have enough seeds stock

available this season, because seed growers were equally affected by drought conditions last season.

With regards to the availability of fertilizers, most regions have indicated that they have a limited

carryover stock of fertilizers from last season which they are currently being distributed to Agricultural

Development Centers (ADC) for farmer’s easy access.

12

One of the challenges facing the agricultural industry is the rising cost of production world wide due to

high cost of agricultural inputs. Government recognised this challenge and introduce policies and

programmes that are aimed at boosting food production, particularly in the communal areas of the

country. In light of the above, government through the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry still

has the following subsidy in place, aimed at enabling crop farmers in the communal areas to afford

agricultural inputs thereby increasing food production. This includes the following:

Seed and Fertilizers subsidy

This is a subsidy that was introduced in the northern communal crop producing regions which allows

farmers to buy seeds and fertilizers (NPK, MAP and NH4SO4) at 50% subsidy for seeds and 60%

subsidy for fertilizers, limited to 3 hectares per farmers. The aim of this program is to enable the farmers

to afford these inputs (i.e. seeds and fertilizers), thus improve their crop productions. The fertilizers

subsidised prices for a 50kg bag is N$120 for MAP, N$83 NH4SO4, N$127 for NPK, N$114 LAN and

N$140 Urea fertilizers.

Ploughing services subsidy

This program allows farmers to afford ploughing services from the private tractors or draught animals

by giving them a subsidy of N$200 per hectare ploughed, but limited to three hectares per farming

household.

Weeding services subsidy

This is another subsidy given to farmers during the weeding activities. An amount of N$200 subsidy per

hectare weeded is given to each farmer and also limited to three hectare like other subsidies mentioned

earlier.

Due to limited fund available for the ploughing and weeding services, only few farmers that are going to

benefit from these subsidies and the regions may reduce three hectares given to farmers based on the

demand in that area.

Government tractor services

The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry has reintroduce government tractors to the northern

communal crop producing regions. These tractors are equipped with implements such as ripper, planter

and fertilizers application machine. Below is a summary of tractors in the regions.

Region Number of

tractors

Area of delivery

Zambezi 12 All ADCs

Kavango East & West 12 All ADCs

Ohangwena 14 All ADCs and 2 to supplement areas of high

demand

Oshikoto 12 All ADCs and 3 to supplement areas of high

demand

Oshana 11 All ADCs and 1 to supplement areas of high

demand

13

Omusati 10 All ADCs except Ogongo & Okahao where

many private tractors exist

Kunene North 4 Okangwati ADC and Otjisokotjongava ADCs

Total 75

Farmers are also required to register for the government tractors and pay an amount of N$300 per

hectare for a combination of planting and fertilizing or ripping and planting. Moreover, if a farmer

would only want planting service alone, then she/he has to pay an amount of N$150 per hectare.

In addition, government is also providing free seeds to all the dry land crop producing regions for pearl

millet and maize with coverage of up to two hectares per household.

7. SITUATION BY REGION Zambezi Region

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15

The basic input availability in the region is generally satisfactory to kick start the season. The

region received 23.5 tons of maize seeds for distribution to farmers as free seeds. At the time of

the assessment, the region reported that about 10 tons of hybrid maize seeds were distributed to the

river field crop farmers and the remaining 13.5 tons are yet to be distributed to upper land crop field

farmers. In addition, the region indicated that more seed stocks for both maize, pearl millet and

sorghum is still being expected and will be sold to farmers under the government dry land crop

production subsidy program. There are currently five improved seed suppliers of which four are

supplying maize seed varieties and one is only supplying pearl millet and sorghum seed varieties.

This included; Kafasepco, Kamunu, Likwama and Caprivi Business Consultants for maize seeds and

Northern Namibia Seed Growers Cooperative for pearl millet and sorghum seeds. While others

already have maize seed varieties in stock ready to be sold to the farmers. The region has also

indicated that they have limited carry over stock of fertilizers from last season which is currently

being sold to the farmers and is still waiting for the new stock to arrive. Progresses on the land

preparation, ploughing as well as planting of maize in the river crop fields have been completed with

good germinations observed and at the time of the assessment crop stage have reached knee height.

Elsewhere in the region, farmers are busy clearing their land and mending fences waiting for

productive rains for them to start their field cultivations

Regarding the tractors services, the region has 12 tractors fully equipped with the necessary

implements. At the time of the assessment, nine of the 12 tractors have been serviced and ready for

use, while the remaining three tractors are yet to be serviced before being sent to various

constituencies for ploughing services. Private tractor owners are also expected to participate in the

ploughing subsidy services this season. On the household food security, the situation is said to have

weakened since July when most households have depleted their little harvest from last season.

Majority of households are said to be dependent on the market and drought relief foods for food

access. With regards to livestock health, suspected cases of Food and Mouth Disease (FMD) were

reported in Katima rural constituency in particular, Masikili, Kabbe, Ivilivinzi and Salambala

villages. The regional Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) reported that, tests were made and

some livestock tested positive. Some samples were sent to South Africa for further diagnosis and at

the time of the assessment, the results have not yet been received. Moreover, DVS had enforced a ban

on slaughtering of livestock which has subsequently resulted in the closure of the Meat-co abattoir.

Moreover, restrictions measures on the livestock movements have also been enforced. At the time of

the assessment, the ban on slaughtering of livestock was still enforced and restriction of livestock

movements has been lifted in the western part of the region. Cases of tick infestations were also

reported throughout the region, but according to farmers and the DVS, the extent of the infestation is

much better compared to the past seasons. Other livestock related cases reported included sporadic

cases of Black quarter, Dystocia as well as prolapsed of the Uterus.

Constituencies

Katima Urban: Most part of this constituency is

a town and residential area. With the exception

of few home gardening and irrigation projects

exist in this area, no farming activities other than

these are taking place. Hence it is irrelevant from

the assessment team to report on agricultural

activities in this area.

Kabbe North and Kabbe South

Constituencies: Due to poor harvest received

last season, majority of farmers were unable to

reserve sufficient good quality seeds for this

season. Nevertheless, many farmers received free

drought relief maize seeds from the government,

especially those with crop fields along the river.

At the time of this assessment, the constituency

has not yet received productive rainfall and the

upland farmers were still clearing their crop

fields, waiting for productive rainfall for them to

begin cultivations. Furthermore, the assessment

team was informed that, arrangements to avail

more subsidy and free seeds in the area were

almost finalized and farmers can expect the

arrival of seeds very soon.

With regards to tractors services, it was reported

that there are few private tractors available in

this area and according to farmers most tractors

are taken to the lake area where field sizes are

relatively big and free form the stamps.

Nevertheless, the entire ADC in this

constituency is expecting the government tractor

once productive rainfall has been received. On

the household food security, the situation is

reported to be weakening as most households are

reported to have depleted their harvests and are

now dependent on the market and government

drought relief seeds for food access. On livestock

health, no major livestock diseases were reported

at the time of this assessment except, suspected

cases of FMD in Kabbe area in June and the

DVS has already taken some precautionary

measures in order to contain the disease.

However, pasture is reported to be poor in the

west due to high concentration of animals and

good in the eastern part of the constituency

Katima Rural Constituency: At the time of the

assessment, no rainfall received yet and most

farmers were still clearing their crop fields and

waiting for productive rain for them to kick start

with cultivation. However, river field farmers

managed to plough and plant their crop fields

with available soil moisture and the river level

recede back and their maize was seen to be at

knee height. These farmers received free maize

seeds from the government and are thankful of

the government for such assistance. Furthermore,

many farmers’ especially upland crop farmers

were in a process to register for the government

subsidy scheme such as improved seeds and

ploughing and fertilizers subsidy services. Last

season, most farmers were unable to retain

enough good quality seeds due to severe dry

conditions that dominated the season.

With regards to household food security, most

households are reported to have depleted their

harvest last July and are currently dependent on

the market and drought relief foods for food

access. On the livestock health, no major

livestock disease outbreaks were reported at the

time of this assessment. However, suspected

cases of Food and Mouth Disease (FMD) were

reported in Masikili, Kabbe, and Ivilivinzi and

Salambala villages. This has lead to enforcement

of a ban on slaughtering of livestock by the DVS

which has subsequently resulted in the closure of

the Meat-co abattoir. Moreover, restrictions

measures on the livestock movements have also

been enforced. Furthermore, cases of tick’s

infestation are still being reported in the area but

the magnitude of the infestation is said to be

much lower and better than previous seasons.

Furthermore, Pasture is poor in the low laying

areas due to high concentrations of animals, but

expected to improve once good showers have

being received.

Kongola Constituency: At the time of this

assessment, ploughing and or planting activities

have not yet started since no productive rainfall

received. Most farmers were busy clearing as

well as fencing their crop fields which they

started during September/October. In the eastern

part of the constituency, around Kongola area,

most farmers prefer to use improved seeds and

majority of them have already registered in order

to purchase subsidized seeds. Furthermore,

farmers indicated that, availability of seeds from

the previous season at household level is very

limited because of drought experienced last

season. On the western part of the constituency,

Omega III area, majority of farmers are San

16

people and they are usually provided with free

seeds which according to them has not yet

arrived at their local Agricultural Development

Centre. Farmers further indicated that, they could

not obtain any harvest last season due to drought

as well as destruction by wild animals, hence no

seeds available at household level. Most farmers

in the Omega III area don’t use fertilizers due to

affordability and kraal manure is scare as there

are very few livestock kept in the area.

Draught animals especially donkeys are fit to be

used for ploughing services and according to

farmers, there in only one government tractor

known to be operating in the area which due to

the high demand cannot cover everyone

especially those in the farthest areas. On

household food security, the situation is

tightening since most households are reported to

have finished their last season’s harvest and are


drought relief foods for food access. The San

people are currently relying on their special food

program as well as collecting wild fruits.

Linyanti and Lyaboloma Constituencies:

Mmajority of farmers were able to register for

the government subsidy services the Ministry is

offering. According to the Agricultural

Extension Technicians responsible for this area,

registration for farmers who want to participate

in the seed, fertilizers and ploughing subsidy

scheme has already been completed. Most

farmers interviewed indicated that, they were

unable to retain sufficient good quality seeds

from the previous harvest, due to drought

experienced last season. Government tractors

assigned to this constituency are said to be ready

for ploughing services and private tractor owners

have also registered to participate in the

government ploughing subsidy services.

With the exception of crop fields along the river,

ploughing activities have not yet started since the

area have not received sufficient rainfall and

farmers are eagerly waiting for the rain to start

which according to them is delayed. With

regards to household food security, farmers have

indicated that their last season’s harvest got

finished in July this year and are currently

dependent on the market and government

drought relief foods for food access. On the

livestock’s health, no major livestock disease

outbreaks were reported at the time of the

assessment. However, suspected cases of

Anthrax were reported since August this year in

Lubuta and Sachona areas, where the affected

farmers are reported to have lost cattle due to this

problem. Pasture condition was reported to be in

good condition while livestock on the other hand

is said to be in fair condition.

Sibinda Constituency: According to the

Agricultural Extension officials responsible for

this area, majority of farmers have registered to

participate in the government subsidy services.

At the time of the assessment, no significant

rainfall received to trigger cultivation activities

and most farmers were busy with clearing their

crop fields and waiting for the productive season

to start cultivation. Furthermore, the Agricultural

Extension Offices (ADC) is in a process of

inviting seed suppliers at certain designated

places to enable farmers to have easy access to

seeds. Majority of farmers have registered for

various government subsidy services since

October this year.

The ADCs has reported that livestock are in

good conditions and draught animals in

particular are fit and readily available for

ploughing services. Furthermore, the government

tractor assigned to this ADC is also reported to

be available and ready for ploughing services.

There is only one private tractor known to be

operating in the area which according to farmers

was still out of order since last season.

Additionally, one weeding group registered in

the area of Sibinda is expected to partake in the

weeding subsidy services this season. Several

farmers managed to sell their cattle through

Meat-co abattoir before the ban on livestock

marketing was enforced. No major livestock

diseases were reported at the time of the

assessment. With regards to household food

security, most households are reported to have

depleted their harvest and are currently


drought relief foods for food access.

17

Kavango East and Kavango West Regions

Constituencies

Kahenge Constituency: According to farmers

due to a very poor harvest received last season,

seeds obtained from the previous season were

very limited and insufficient for this season. In

addition, at the time of the assessment the ADCs

were still waiting for seeds and fertilizers

consignments to arrive. Moreover villages such

as Murayi and the surrounding areas, ploughing

and planting activities have started following

some good showers received. What was apparent

was, majority of farmers are busy clearing their

crop fields and readying them for cultivation.

Pasture condition was reported to be poor

especially areas along the river and better to

good in the inland. Water availability for

18

The region reported a slight delay in the delivery of basic inputs such as

improved seeds and fertilizers. At the time of the assessment, the regions were

still awaiting for the arrival of free and subsidy seeds as well as fertilizers.

However, it was reported that, there is a small carryover stock of fertilizers from

last season which according to the region was not enough to start the season.

Majority of farmers interviewed reported that, due to drought experienced last season,

they were unable to retain good quality and sufficient seeds and are counting on the

government for seed supply. On the weeding subsidy service, the region expressed a

concern that many weeding groups were not paid last season for their weeding service

rendered due to insufficient budgetary provision to this service. According to the Chief

Agricultural Scientific Officer, budgetary provision for this subsidy services was

overstretched and could not cover all the weeding groups that have participated in the

subsidy services. The region is therefore requesting for additional resources to this

activity in order to pay the weeding groups which could not be paid last season. On the

livestock health, the region reported that unusual number of cases of Black quarter

was reported in Mpungu and Kahenge constituencies in the Kavango West region.

Although the regions usually experience the problem of Black quarter during the dry

season, this season according to the regional Directorate of Veterinary Services, the

situation was more severe than previous season. In an effort to put the situation under

control, government through the DVS has intervened by launching vaccination

campaign in October and the situation has since normalized. Grazing is reported to be

poor in areas along the river due to high concentration of livestock from the inland for

water supply and fair to good in the inland areas. It was also reported that cattle are

getting stuck in the mud on the river bank since their body condition is weak and

could not pull out of the mud hence they died there. This situation is said to be more

severe in Kamutjonga village in Mukwe constituency of the Kavango East region and

Karangama and Ruwone villages in the Mpungu constituency of the Kavango West

region. With regards to household food security, majority of household are dependent

on the market and government drought relief foods for food supply. Farmers had very

poor harvest last season because of drought which affected both crop and grazing

establishment.

livestock is reported to be okay since most of the

farmers make use of the river to supply water to

their livestock. Livestock diseases reported

included Black quarter and Botulism since June

this year, but the situation is reported to have

been brought under control, following

vaccination campaigns by the DVS. However,

some farmers especially in Tondoro village are

still reporting cases of Botulism. The household

food security was reported to have weakened, as

most household depleted their last season’s

harvest and are now dependent on the market

and government drought relief foods for food

access.

Kapako Constituency: Majority of farmers in

this area were unable to retain sufficient good

quality seeds this year, following poor harvest

due to poor rainfall performance last season. At

the time of the assessment, this area has not yet

received their inputs such as seeds and fertilizers.

Furthermore, productive rainfall has not yet been

received and most farmers were busy clearing

their crop fields for cultivations. Most farmers in

this area use draught animals to cultivate their

crop fields. At the time of the assessment,

draught animals were reported to be in fair

condition and are somehow fit to be used for

ploughing. Ploughing equipments such as hand

hoes, mould board ploughs and other basic

implements are in place and most farmers are

just waiting for the productive rainfall for them

to start with their field cultivation.

Pastures is said to be in good condition in the

inland with exception of areas which suffered

veld fire and poor in areas along the river, due to

high concentration of livestock in that area. With

regards to livestock health, most parts of this

area reported Black quarter disease in cattle

between June and September this year. However,

at the time of this assessment, the situation is

reported to have normalised, following

vaccination operation by the DVS. With regards

to household food security, the situation is

tightening as most households are reported to

have depleted their food stock from last season’s

poor harvest and are now dependent on the

market and government drought relief foods for

food access.

Mpungu Constituency: Some villages such as

Sikumba, Likorerela and the surrounding

villages have started ploughing and planting their

crop fields, following some good showers

received. Majority of farmers were still preparing

their crop field for ploughing. However, due to

poor harvest experienced last season, indicated

that they were unable to obtain and retain

sufficient good quality seeds at harvest. Farmers

are therefore reportedly making a regular visit to

their local Agricultural Development Centre

(ADC) in search of the improved seeds. At the

time of the assessment, both seeds and fertilizers

have not yet been received at the ADC.

Most farmers in this area make use of draught

animals mainly oxen to plough their crop fields.

Private tractors are hardly operating in this area.

Nevertheless, the government tractors assigned

to this constituency is said to be ready for

ploughing services. However, the challenges

remains that some crop fields are still not

accessible by tractor due to stamps. With regards

to livestock health, Black quarter disease was a

major problem in cattle since June this year and

many farmers are reported to have lost their

cattle to this disease. At the time of the

assessment, the situation is said to have

improved, followed a massive vaccination

operation by the Directorate of Veterinary

Services. Other cases reported included Botulism

which according to the Agricultural Extension

official responsible for this area is now under

control. Grazing condition is reported to have

started deteriorating and some farmers are

reported to have started losing their livestock due

to drought. Veld fires were also reported and

according to farmers have contributed negatively

to poor grazing condition. No livestock diseases

outbreaks were reported at the time of the

assessment. On the household food security,

most household interviewed have indicated that,

their food stock from last season’s poor harvest

have been depleted and are currently dependent

on the market and government food relief foods

for food access.

Mukwe Constituency: Although, most farmers

were unable to retain enough seeds from last

season’s poor harvest, preparations for the new

season were in full swing at the time of this

assessment. Most interviewed farmers indicated

that, they are looking forward to purchase seeds

from their local ADC, which at the time of the

assessment were not yet available. Registration

of farmers in the government Dry Land Crop

production subsidy program was underway.

However, it was reported that there is a high

demand of these subsidy services and most

farmers indicated that they hardly access some of

the subsidy services such as government tractor

19

which is not sufficient for the entire

Constituency. Moreover, there is one private

tractor in the constituency which is said to be

expensive.

Many farmers uses draught to cultivate their crop

fields and are reported to be in fair to good

condition especially in the inland, while along

the River, the condition range from fair to poor.

Furthermore, the general livestock condition

follows the same pattern. Marketing of

agricultural produce especially pearl millet could

not materialize this year due to poor harvest

obtained last season. On the household food

security, the situation is reported to be

weakening as majority of farmers are said to

have depleted their last season’s harvest and are

currently relying on the market and drought

relief foods for food access.

Ndiyona Constituency: Majority of farmers in

this area are reported to be in need of seeds,

following poor harvest last season. Farmers are

reportedly making regular visits at the ADC in

search for seeds, which at the time of the

assessment were still not yet available. Draught

animal power is commonly used in this area for

ploughing service, but they are said to be weak

and not really fit for ploughing services.

Livestock conditions range from fair to poor and

this applies to draught animal as well. This

follows the poor pasture condition in the area.

The use of tractors for ploughing service is very

limited, most farmers are still struggling with

removing stumps from their crop fields and most

of them feel that it is a lot of work for them.

On the household food security, most households

indicated that they have already depleted their

harvested stock from last season and are mainly

dependent on the market and drought relief foods

for food access. No major livestock diseases

were reported at the time of the assessment.

Rundu Rural East Constituency: Most farmers

in this area are reportedly in need of both cereal

and non-cereal seeds, following poor harvest last

season. Farmers are reported to be making

regular visit at the ADC in search for seeds,

which at the time of this assessment were not yet

available at the ADC and the region as a whole.

Meanwhile farmers have started to register

mainly for improved seeds and tractor subsidy

services. It was reported that, demand for

fertilizers is still low in this area and many

farmers claimed that fertilizer prices are still high

despite the subsidy in place. Majority of farmers

used draught animal power to plough their crop

fields and at the time of this assessment, draught

animals are said to be weak due to poor grazing

conditions in the area. Nevertheless, there are

some private tractors known to be operating in

this area, just as addition to the government

tractor.

On the livestock health, no major livestock

diseases reported at the time of the assessment.

Pasture is said to be poor in areas along the river

and fair to good in the inland. Water for

livestock is also reported to be okay. Regarding

the household food security, the situation is said

to be tightening as majority of households

indicated that, their food stock from last season’s

harvest got finished in June. Under the

circumstance, most households are currently



Rundu Rural West Constituency: At the time

of the assessment, various parts of this

constituency are still dry and have not received

productive rainfall yet. Most farmers were busy

clearing their crop fields for cultivations.

However, due to poor harvest last season,

majority of farmers were unable to obtain

enough good quality seeds. Farmers are therefore

reportedly making regular visits to the ADC in

search for seed, which at the time of the

assessment have not yet arrived in the area.

According to the agricultural extension official

responsible for this area many farmers have been

visiting the ADC in search for seeds as well as

government subsidy services. Private tractors are

very scarce on this side, but there are few which

are expected to partake in the government

ploughing subsidy services. Moreover, this

government tractor for this area is also expected

to resume ploughing services once enough

rainfall has been received. Most farmers in this

area use draught animal power to cultivate their


conditions of draught animals were reported to

be fair to good and are mostly fit to pull the

ploughs.

With regards to weeding services, majority of

farmers use mostly family members for labor and

some do also use hired labor especially for

weeding services. With regards to household

food security, the situation is said to be

weakening as many households interviewed

20

indicated that they have depleted their last

season’s harvest and are now dependent on the

market and drought relief foods for food supply.

Mashare Constituency: Majority of farmers is

concerned with the scarcity of seeds this season

as a result of the poor harvest of last season and

they were desperately in need of seeds. However,

farmers indicated that they will buy seeds at the

ADC or Open market in Rundu. Furthermore,

the demand for fertilizers is not high since there

are only few farmers who buy fertilizers and

kraal manure is rarely used in this area. Majority

of farmers described the condition of their

draught animal as very poor and unfit for

ploughing services. Furthermore, livestock in

general are lean due to hunger resulting from the

looming drought and poor grazing. On ploughing

services, the demand for GRN tractors is high,

given the fact that draught animal power is also

currently weak. At the time of the assessment,

farmers were busy registering for GRN subsidy

services services.

On ploughing implements, farmers indicated that

the necessary implements are in place, but some

share ploughs with those who don’t own one. On

labour matters, majority of farmers make use of

family members as well as hired labor which is

reported to be readily available. However, there

are also weeding groups available but their

services are limited as these groups are not easily

accessible. On the marketing aspect, it was

reported that, most farmers could not sell their

produce due to the poor harvest last season. On

the household food security, the situation is said

to be tightening as majority of farmers are

reported to have depleted their food stock from

last season’s poor harvest and are now dependent

on the market and government drought relief

foods for food access. On livestock health, no

major livestock diseases were reported at the

time of this assessment. However farmers

reported that they have lost some of their

livestock due to drought related conditions.

Finally, the pasture is poor along the riverside

due to overgrazing, however in the inland the

pasture was described as fair by farmers but veld

fires were also a concern which aggravated the

situation.

21

Omusati region

Constituencies Anamulenge Constituency: At the time of the

assessment, no significant rainfall received yet

and most parts of the constituency is still dry.

What was apparent is that many farmers were in

a full swing to prepare their crop fields for

cultivation. With regards to inputs availability at

household level, most farmers have indicated

that, they were unable to obtain good quality

seeds due to poor harvest last season. Farmers in

this area use both draught animals and tractors to

cultivate their crop fields. Private tractors are

also available in the area and many farmers are

making use of them to plough their crop fields.

Moreover, the constituency is expecting the

government tractor assigned to this area to

resume its duties, once sufficient rainfall is

obtained.

With regards to household food security, most

families are reported to have depleted their last

season’s harvest and are now dependent on the

market and drought relief foods for food access.

Most households interviewed have indicated that,

prices for maize flour is higher as compared to

the same corresponding period last season.

Grazing condition was reported to be poor and

livestock body condition range between fair and

very poor. On the livestock health, no major

livestock diseases were reported in the area at the

time of the assessment. However, cases of

internal parasites in goats were widely reported

in the constituency. Furthermore, many farmers

are reported to have lost some of their livestock

to drought.

Elim Constituency: Majority of farmers in this

area are reportedly in need of cereal and non-

cereal seeds following the poor harvest

experienced last season. Farmers are said to be

making regular visits at the ADC in search for

seed which was not available at the time of the

assessment. Nonetheless, farmers said that they

are getting ready for the season as most of them

21

22

At the time of the assessment, the region was still awaiting for the delivery for

both subsidy and free seed consignments. Despite the fact that, pearl millet and non-

cereal seeds are in short supply this season because of the devastating drought which

rampaged agricultural production in the country last season, majority of farmers are

looking forward to the government to supply them with seeds. According to farmers,

last season poor harvest did not allowed them to retain sufficient good quality seeds

hence; there is a strong need for seeds supply. Also while still waiting for fertilizers

stock to arrive, the region had a limited carryover stock of Mono Ammonium

Phosphate (MAP) which has already been distributed to various ADC for farmer’s

easy access. Furthermore, the region reported that, due to drought last season, most

drought animals such as oxen and donkeys are not particularly fit for ploughing

services. Nevertheless, government as well as private tractors are reported to be ready

to render the ploughing services to the farmers. It was further reported that,

registration for ploughing subsidy services was still ongoing and may farmers have

registered for ploughing and other subsidy services. At the time of the assessment,

most farmers have not yet started ploughing or planting their crops fields since no

significant rainfall was received. Pasture condition was reported to be very poor in

most constituencies, but better in areas of Amarika and Uutsathima villages in Okahao

constituency, with limited water availability for livestock. Many farmers are reported

to have lost their livestock due to drought this year. No livestock diseases were

reported at the time of this assessment. With regards to household food security, the

situation is said to have weakened as majority of households are reported to have

depleted their little food stock from last season’s harvest and are now dependent on

the market and government drought relief foods for food supply.

indicated that their crop fields are already cleared

and some busy dispensing manure. However, all

interviewed farmers shared their concern with

the animal draught power that is described to be

in a very poor condition following poor pasture

availability in the constituency. Furthermore,

most donkeys are reportedly dying of internal

parasites which might result in shortage of

draught animal power at the onset of the season.

Following the poor production in the previous

year, none of the interviewed farmers have

managed to sell their mahangu. Moreover,

household food security is reported to be

weakening as majority of the households are said

to have depleted their last season’s harvest and


drought relief foods for food access. On the

livestock situation, the body condition is

generally poor and some livestock, particularly

cattle and donkeys are reported to have

succumbed to the current prevailing serious

drought situation.

Etayi Constituency: The majority of farmers

were unable to retain seeds from last season’s

harvest, following drought conditions which

dominated the season. Many farmers are

reportedly making regular visits at the ADC in

search for seeds which at the time of the

assessment were not yet available in the area. It

was further reported that there is a carryover

stock of fertilizers from last season which is

currently being sold to farmers, while waiting for

a new stock to arrive. Majority of farmers use

kraal manure to fertilizes their crop fields.

Draught animals are commonly used here to

cultivate crop fields which at the time of the

assessment were weak and not fit for ploughing

services. Some farmers are reported to have lost

some of their livestock, including draught

animals to the current drought conditions.

Nevertheless, private tractors are also available

in this area as well as government tractor which

is said to be on standby, waiting for productive

rainfall for it to start ploughing services.

Regarding marketing of mahangu grains, farmers

indicated that they did not sell any produce

because of the poor harvest received last season.

On the household food security, majority of the

households has no food as they are mainly

depending on drought relief food as well as the

market for food access. With regards to livestock

health, no livestock diseases were reported at the

time of this assessment. However drought related

cases such as vaginal prolapse, retained placenta,

Dystocia and so forth were widely reported in

the area.

Ogongo Constituency: Most farmers were busy

clearing their crop fields and repairing their

ploughing implements. At the time of the

assessment, the ADC was still awaiting for both

subsidy and free seeds. It was further reported

that, the ADC had some carryover stock of

fertilizers from the previous season and had

started selling them to farmers, while waiting for

a new stock to arrive. The availability of local

seed varieties at household level is very limited

this season, following poor harvest last season.

Most interviewed farmers indicated that they

were unable to retain good quality because of

severe drought conditions experienced last

season. With regards to private tractors several

private tractors are known to be operating in the

area and expected to partake in the government

ploughing subsidy program. Moreover,

government tractor assigned to this area is said to

be on standby and waiting for productive rainfall

for it to start ploughing service. Most farmers in

this area use draught animal, mainly donkeys to

cultivate their crop fields. However, these

animals were reported to be weak and unfit for

draught power.

On the household food security, the situation is

reported to be weakening as most households are

reported to have depleted their last season’s



access. Livestock body condition is reported to

be poor and some farmers are reported to have

lost some of their livestock to drought. No major

livestock diseases reported at the time of this

assessment.

Okahao Constituency: Majority of farmers in

this area are reported to be in need of cereal and

non-cereal seeds, following poor harvest last

season. At the time of this assessment, both

subsidy and free seeds have not yet been

received and farmers are reportedly making

regular visits at the ADC in search for seeds. It

was further reported that, while waiting for new

stock of fertilizers to arrive, there is a carryover

stock of fertilizers from last season and many

farmers have already started buying them in

order to fertilize their crop fields. At the time of

the assessment, the constituency was still dry and

ploughing or planting have not yet started.

23

Additionally, farmers indicated that they are

ready for the new season, while some were still

busy dispensing kraal manure in their crop field.

About nine private tractors have already

registered to participate in the ploughing subsidy

and according to the Agricultural Technicians at

the center, more tractors are still being expected

to join the scheme following the Project of the

War Veteran of the Liberation struggle who

many of them have acquired tractors.

On the livestock issue, farmers reported that they

are currently losing their livestock due to the

prevailing drought situation in the area. Pasture

condition is very poor, but fair to good in cattle

post areas, but no water. Furthermore, cases of

internal parasite in all livestock, mange’s in

goats and Dystocia among cattle have been

reported in different areas. Regarding household

food security, the situation is said to be

weakening as most households are said to have

depleted their little harvest from last season and

are now dependent on the market and

government drought relief foods for food access.

Onesi Constituency: The two ADCs in this

constituency are still waiting for improved seeds

and fertilizers consignments to arrive when the

assessment team visited this constituency. Most

farmers in this constituency are reported to be in

dying needs for seeds and are hoping to get some

from their local ADCs. According to farmers

interviewed, last season’s harvest was extremely

poor and they were unable to retain significant

quantity of seeds for both cereals and non-cereal

crops. As results many farmers are reportedly

making regular visits at the ADCs in search for

seeds.

Ploughing and planting activities have not yet

started and according to farmers there is a delay

in the onset of the rain. Most farmers in this area

use draft animal powers especially donkeys to

cultivate their crop fields. At the time of the

assessment farmers were complaining about the

poor body condition of their livestock including

draught animals which they attributed it to poor

grazing conditions caused by drought. It was

further reported that Farmers have further

reported that their livestock are suffering from

internal parasites and some farmers are reported

to have lost some of their donkeys to internal

parasites. With regards to household food

security in terms of own production, it was

reported that most households have depleted

their little food stock from last season’s harvest

and are now dependent on the market and


Oshikuku Constituency: At the time of the

assessment, most parts of this area were still dry

and farmers were still waiting for productive

rains to kick start cultivations. Farmers have

already concluded crop field clearance and

implements preparations as well as manure

application. Most farmers in this area use

draught animals to cultivate their crop fields. At

the time of this assessment draught animals

according to farmers are in poor condition and

unfit to be used for ploughing. However, private

tractors are many in this area and expected to

participate in the government ploughing subsidy

scheme. Improved seeds and new stock of

fertilizers have not yet arrived at the ADC by the

time of this assessment. Moreover, government

tractor assigned to this constituency is expected

to resume its ploughing services once productive

rainfall is received.

With regards to marketing of pearl millet grains,

farmers indicated that, they did not produced

surplus, hence no sales have taken place. On the

household food security, most households have

indicated that, their last season’s harvest got

finished in July and are now dependent on the


No major livestock diseases outbreaks were

reported at the time of the assessment. However,

farmers reported that their livestock are dying

due to the prevailing drought conditions in the

area.

Otamanzi Constituency: Although this area is

one of the green baskets of the region, majority

of farmers were unable to retain sufficient good

quality seeds due to poor harvest experienced

last season. Many farmers are reportedly making

regular visits to the ADC in search for seeds

which at the time of the assessment were not yet

available. It was further reported that, services

like ploughing with tractors both private and

government are very scarce in this area.

However, farmers continue to rely on their

draught animals, especially donkeys for

ploughing services which at the time of the

assessment were in poor conditions and not fit

for ploughing service. In addition, some donkeys

were reported dying of internal parasites as well

as due to hunger in the area. Farmers further

reported that they are losing their cattle due to

severe drought conditions which resulted in very

poor grazing conditions. Farmers are requesting

24

the Ministry to provide them with adequate

ploughing services as one tractor in the

Constituency is inadequate and always starts

later during the season.

Regarding household food security, majority of

the interviewed households indicated that, they

have depleted their little harvest from last season

and are now dependent on the market and


On the livestock health, no major diseases were

reported except hunger and its concomitant

conditions such as Dystocia, retained placentas,

virginal prolapse and so forth. Poor pasture

conditions were widely reported in the area and

livestock body conditions is said to range from

fair to very poor with some cattle unable to wake

up on their own, hence needed support to stand.

Outapi Constituency: Like other constituency

in the region, farmers reported that, they were

unable to retain sufficient and good quality seeds

from last season’s poor harvest. Most farmers are

therefore from now and then visit the ADC in

search for seeds, particularly pearl millet one. At

the time of this assessment, most farmers were

busy clearing their crop fields, repairing their

fence and waiting for productive rainfall for

them to commence cultivation. Furthermore,

farmers reported that draft animal are in fair to

poor conditions due to poor grazing and are not

available for ploughing services. According to

farmers, since the season before (2011/2012)

pasture could not establish properly due to poor

rainfall performance and the situation was

exacerbated by drought conditions last season.

Nevertheless, enough private tractors are

available (about 7 tractors) in the area of which

five of them usually participate in the

government ploughing subsidy service.

Moreover, the constituency has also one

government tractor available to the farmers and

is expected to resume ploughing activities once

good rainfall has been received.

With regards to livestock health, generally no

major livestock diseases were reported at the

time of the assessment. However, farmers

reported that they are losing their livestock

particularly cattle and donkeys to drought. On

the household food security, majority of

households reported to have finished their little

food stock from last season’s poor harvest and

are currently dependent on the market and

government drought relief foods for food supply.

Ruacana Constituency: For the past two

consecutive seasons, this constituency together

with Kunene region was hit by drought. Most

farmers did not have any significant harvests for

these two seasons. Therefore, farmers were

unable to obtain sufficient good quality seeds. At

the time of the assessment, the ADC was still

waiting for seeds consignments for subsidy and

free seeds as well as fertilizers. Most parts of this

constituency were still dry at the time of the visit

and farmers were busy clearing and readying

their crop fields for ploughing. According to

farmers, the basic ploughing equipments such as

hand hoes, mould board ploughs and other basic

implements are in place.

No major livestock diseases reported at the time

of the assessment except hunger for livestock

due to poor grazing condition. Grazing areas are

reported to be in a very poor condition and

livestock are reported to be in fair to poor

conditions. On the household food security, most

household in this area are merely dependent on


access. As indicated previously, most farmers in

this area did not have had proper harvest for the

past two seasons, hence their dependency on the

market and or government drought relief foods.

Okalongo Constituency: Farmers are reportedly

in need of seeds, following poor harvest last

season. Farmers are said to be visiting the ADC

regularly in search for seeds which at the time of

this assessment have not yet arrived in the area.

At the time of the assessment, no significant

rainfall were received and majority of farmers

were busy with clearing, manure applications,

de-bushing, de-stumping and mending fences for

their crop fields.

Majority of farmers uses draught animals to

cultivate their crop fields. However, at the time

of this assessment draught animals are said to be

weak and unfit for ploughing services.

Nevertheless, government tractor assigned to this

constituency is said to be ready for use, but just

waiting for sufficient rainfall in order to start

ploughing services. Furthermore, significant

number private tractors are also said to be

available in the area and expected to partake in

the government ploughing subsidy scheme.

No major livestock diseases were reported at the

time of this assessment. However, farmers are

25

complaining about hunger for their livestock and

some farmers are reported to have lost some of

their livestock to drought. With regards to

household food security, the situation was

reported to be unsatisfactory as most households

are reported to have depleted their last season’s

harvest and now dependent on the market and


Tsandi Constituency: Most farmers

interviewed indicated that, they were unable to

obtain enough good quality seeds from the

previous season due to the poor rainfall

performance experience. At the time of the

assessment, various parts of this constituency are

dry, characterized by poor pasture condition and

subsequently poor to fair livestock condition.

Farmers have further reported that, draught

animals especially donkeys are currently weak

and not fit to provide draught power. However,

some farmers took their livestock at the cattle

posts for better grazing and their livestock are

reported to be in good condition. Draught

animals are expected to be return back home for

ploughing services.

The extension officials responsible for this area

have indicated that they will collect

consignments of improved seeds and fertilizers

at the regional office to the ADC for farmers’

easy access. However, since many farmers did

not obtain sufficient seeds from their last harvest

and that the region received limited quantity of

seeds this season, the demand for seeds is

reported to be higher. Pasture was also

negatively affected by poor rainfall last season

and as such, draft animals are reported to be

weak and not fit to be used for draught power.

With regards to livestock health, cases of internal

parasite especially in goats and donkeys were

widely reported in the constituencies. Moreover,

farmers reported cases of Dystocia, retained

placenta as well as vaginal prolapsed. Household

food security was reported to be satisfactory with

many household. However, according to

household owner, the harvest is supplemented

with market surplus for it to last longer possible

take them to the next harvest.

Ohangwena Region

26

26

While the region is waiting for the arrival of the improved seeds and fertilizers

consignments, it was reported that the region had a carryover stock of fertilizers

for top dressing only and sorghum and maize seeds in stock. Majority of farmers

were unable to retain enough good quality seeds last season due to drought. At the

time of the assessment, the region had a carryover stock of sorghum and maize seeds

which they have already dispatched to various constituencies for distribution. Since the

beginning of September, farmers have registered for inputs and ploughing subsidy

services with their respective ADCs. The region has further reported that, weeding

groups as well as tractor owners have showed an interest to partake in the subsidy

services this season. Furthermore, government tractors are also on standby and waiting

for the commencement of productive rainfall before dispatched to various

constituencies for ploughing services. Majority of farmers uses draft animals to

cultivate their crop fields and according to them, these animals are currently weak and

unfit for ploughing services due to poor grazing conditions. Many farmers are reported

to have lost their livestock due to drought this year and are hoping good rains to come

in order for the grazing areas to recover. With regards to livestock health, no major

livestock diseases were reported at the time of the assessment. However, the major

concern in the area is poor grazing and deteriorating livestock body condition because

of drought. Moreover, the region has also reported drought related conditions such as

vaginal prolapse, uterus prolapse as well as Dystocia in cattle. Additionally, the region

reported cases of rabies in cattle and dogs and internal parasites in goats. On the

household food security, the situation was reported to be critical as most households

are reported to have depleted their harvest and now dependent on the market and


Constituencies Eenhana Constituency: The Assessment team

was unable to visit this constituency due to lack

of transport. The vehicle used by the team which

supposed to conduct an assessment in this area,

developed a mechanical failure and was taken to

the garage for repair. Therefore, the assessment

team was unable to report on this constituency,

since no assessments were conducted.

Endola Constituency: The majority of farmers

in this constituency don’t have seeds and farmers

indicated that they have registered for free GRN

seeds. Furthermore, kraal manure is used by

some farmers and fertilizers are usually used by

farmers who can afford to buy it. Draught

animals were widely reported by farmers to be in

poor condition and at the time of this assessment,

draught animals were not fit to plough. On

ploughing services, four private tractor owners

had registered for ploughing subsidy services,

which will be supplemented by the GRN tractor

and the demand for tractors services for the

current season is likely to be very high given the

poor condition of draught animals. What is more,

is that farmers were busy readying their crop

fields especially, repairing fences, spreading

kraal manure, something they started since

October. On cultivation equipments, majority of

farmers indicated that they have ploughs and

hand hoes ready for the cropping season. On

labor issues, farmers make use of family

members for agricultural activities and during

the assessment period two weeding groups have

been registered.

On the marketing aspect, the majority of farmers

could not sell their produce due to the poor

harvest of last season. Furthermore, household

food security is generally poor and farmers

indicated that they are relying on the market and

drought relief foods for food access. On

livestock health, it was widely reported by

farmers that a significant number of livestock

have died due to drought related cases and the

pasture is generally poor.

Engela Constituency: Majority of farmers are

reported to be in need of seeds, following poor

harvest last season. Farmers are however,


seeds which at the time of this assessment was

not yet available in the area. The ADC reported

that, there is a carryover stock of fertilizers from

last season which is currently being sold to

farmers, while expecting a new stock to arrive.

Furthermore, draught animals are reported to be

weak and unfit for ploughing services. However,

there are private tractors of which some are

expected to participate in the government

ploughing subsidy services. Furthermore,

government tractor assigned to this area is also

reported to be on standby, just waiting for

productive rainfall for it to start rendering

ploughing services to the community.


diseases were reported except hunger for

livestock. In this regard, some farmers are

reported to have lost some of their livestock to

the current prevailing drought condition.

Moreover, drought related conditions were

widely reported in the area and this included

retained placenta and vaginal prolapsed.

Epembe Constituency: Most farmers

interviewed in this constituency indicated that,

they were unable to obtain sufficient good

quality seeds, owing to drought conditions

experienced last season. At the time of the

assessment, seeds have not yet been received and

farmers are reportedly making regular visits at

the ADC in search for seeds. Most farmers in

this area uses draught animals to cultivate their

crop fields, which at the time of the assessment

was reported to be weak due to poor grazing

condition and not available immediately for

draught power. However, some farmers are

reported to have taken their livestock to cattle

posts, particularly Far East of the region and in

Angola for better grazing conditions.

With regards to cultivation implements, most

farmers interviewed indicated that they have at

least the basic ones such as hand hoes and mould

board ploughs. On the livestock health, no major

livestock diseases were reported at the time of

the assessment. However, farmers indicated that

the problem confronting their livestock is hunger.

Some farmers are reported to have lost some of

their livestock due to the prevailing drought

conditions. Household food security was

reported to be weakening as most household

interviewed reported that, they have finished

their little harvest from last season and are now

dependent on the market and drought relief foods

for food access.

Okongo constituency: Like as it was the case

last season, this constituency reported a delay in

the onset of the 2013/2014 rain season.

27

According to farmers, productive rainfalls have

not yet been received at the time of this

assessment. Farmers further indicated that, they

were unable to obtain enough good quality seeds

due to drought conditions experienced last

season. Majority of farmers use draft animal

power to cultivate their crop fields, but the

condition of these animals is reported to be very

poor and not fit for ploughing. Furthermore,

farmers indicated that, there are about two

private tractors available in this area and these

tractors are only confined at areas around

Okongo area, while areas in the far east of the

constituency, no tractors. Therefore farmers in

these areas are only relying on draft animals to

cultivate their crop fields. Furthermore,

government tractor is reported to be on standby,

waiting for enough rainfall to start with

ploughing services. Grazing was reported to be

in poor conditions because of poor rainfall

performance experienced last season.

With regards to livestock health, no major

livestock disease outbreaks were reported at the

time of this assessment. However, farmers

indicated that, their livestock are dying due to

drought. Drought related cases were widely

reported in the area. This includes; Dystocia in

cattle, vaginal prolapsed and retained placenta.

Internal parasites in goats were also widely

reported in the area. On the household food

security, the situation is said to be weakening at

the time of this assessment as majority of

households said to have depleted their little

harvest from last season and are now dependent


foods for food access.

Omulonga Constituency: The Assessment team








Ohangwena Constituency: The Assessment

team was unable to visit this constituency due to

lack of transport. The vehicle used by the team

which supposed to conduct an assessment in this

area, developed a mechanical failure and was

taken to the garage for repair. Therefore, the

assessment team was unable to report on this

constituency, since no assessments were

conducted.

Omundaungilo constituency: Farmers

indicated that, no productive rainfall have yet

been received since the start of the season in

October up to the time of the assessment.

Farmers further indicated that, they were unable

to obtain enough and good quality seeds due to

severe drought conditions experienced last

season. Most farmers in this area uses the

draught animal mainly oxen to cultivate their

crop fields. At the time of the assessment, no

enough rainfall was received and farmers have

not yet started cultivation. Government tractor

according to the agricultural extension official

responsible for this area is on standby and is

expected to resume the ploughing services once

enough rainfall have been received. The

agricultural extension official further reported

that, there is only one known private tractor in

this constituency and participated in the

government subsidy services which he said only

render the subsidy service to farmers late, after

service those with cash first.

With regards to household food security, the

situation was reported to be weakening as most


last season’s harvest and now dependent on the

market for food access. On the livestock health,

no major livestock diseases were reported at the

time of the assessment, except hunger for

livestock due to the prevailing drought.

Oshikango Constituency: Majority of farmers

have reported that they don’t have seeds due to

the poor harvest last season and during the

assessment period, some farmers were busy

registering for free seeds from the government.

Furthermore, farmers make use of kraal manure

and they have indicated that fertilizers are

usually used by farmers who can afford. The

condition of draught animal is generally poor

due to drought and some are said to have died. In

addition, farmers indicated that they will prefer

to use tractors for ploughing given the condition

of draught animals which. At the time of this

assessment, one private tractor has been

registered to participate in the government

ploughing subsidy services, which will be

supplemented by one GRN tractor. Furthermore,

during the assessment period, farmers were busy

with clearing and fencing their crop fields, which

they reportedly started during November. On

ploughing implements, farmers indicated that the

equipments and tools used for agricultural

activities are ready for the cropping season. On

28

labor matters, the majority of farmers makes use

family members as well as hired labor for

agricultural activities.


could not sell some of their produce due to the

poor harvest of the previous season. On

household food security, the majority of farmers

are depending on the market for food access as

well as drought relief foods from the government.

No major livestock diseases were reported apart

from drought related cases which were widely

reported by farmers and the pasture is very poor.

Ondobe Constituency: The Assessment team








Ongenga Constituency: Due to poor harvest

obtained last season, many farmers were unable

to retain sufficient good quality seeds. Farmers

are therefore looking up to the government in

search for seeds, which at the time of the

assessment were not yet received in the area.

Apart from cereal seeds, farmers are also

requesting the government to provide them with

leguminous seeds like cowpeas, Bambara nuts

and groundnuts. On the fertilizer, it was reported

that there is a carryover stock from last season

and is currently being sold to farmers while

waiting for new stock to arrive.

The registration in subsidy services was ongoing

at the time of this assessment. Several private

tractors are known to be operating in this area

and some are expected to partake in the

government ploughing subsidy services. The

draught animal was reported to be in poor

condition and unfit for ploughing services.

Pasture condition is very poor and deteriorating.

Moreover, livestock are equally in bad shape

especially cows, some are unable to stand

without support. Some farmers are reported to

have lost some of their livestock to drought. On

the household food security, it was reported that,

the situation has worsened, since most

household’s last seasons’ harvest got finished in

July and many households are currently



29

Oshana Region

Constituencies Okaku Constituency: Most farmers in this area

were unable to obtain enough good quality seeds

due to poor rainfall performance experienced last

season. As a result, the demand for improved

seeds is very high this season. At the time of this

assessment, improved seeds have not yet arrived

in the area. With regards to the fertilizers, the

ADC had a carryover stock of various fertilizers

compounds which they have already started

selling to farmers. The constituency is still

waiting for more consignment of both seeds and

fertilizers. Many farmers have started to register

in the government dry land crop production

subsidy program. Most farmers in this area make

use of either draught animals, tractors or both to

cultivate their crop fields. However, at the time

of this assessment, it was reported that draught

animals were in a very poor condition and as

such they are not fit for ploughing services.

Furthermore, many farmers are reported to have

lost their livestock due to drought including

draught animals.


situation is weakening as most households are

reported to have depleted their last season’s poor



access. No major livestock disease outbreaks


30

30

The region reported a slight delay on the onset of the rain. According to farmers,

productive rainfalls were only received toward the end of November instead of

the normal start in mid October which was also the case last season. At the time of

the assessment, the region was still dry and farmers were still waiting for the rain. At the time of this assessment, the region was in a process of collecting first

consignment of improved seeds from the Northern Namibia Farmer’s Seed Growers

Cooperative which is expected to be distributed to all its constituencies. On the

fertilizers availability, the region had limited carryover stock from last season which

according to the regional Agricultural Extension Office is not sufficient to start the

season. New stock of fertilizers for this season is expected to arrive in not too distant

future. Furthermore, government tractors are ready for the ploughing services and

expected to be dispatched to various constituencies, once enough rainfall is received.

In addition private tractors are also expected to participate in the ploughing subsidy

services this season and at the time of the assessment, registration for all the subsidy

services including tractor ploughing subsidy services was still ongoing. On the

household food security, the situation is said to be critical as most households are

reported to have depleted their last season’s harvest and are currently dependent on the

market and government drought relief foods for food access. According to the Oshana

Regional Council, 60 000 bags (12.5kg) of maize supply to the region monthly is

insufficient do not cover all the people who are food insecure in the region. The region

made a submission to the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) requesting OPM to

increase the supply and by the time of this assessment, the response thereof has not yet

been received. With regards to livestock condition, the situation was described to be

very awful as many farmers are reported to have lost and continue losing their

livestock due to the prevailing drought conditions in the region. The situation was

reported to be very serious in the cattle post areas, particularly in Uuvudhiya

constituency where many farmers from Omusati, Oshikoto, and Ohangwena and

Oshana regions moved their livestock for what it was known as better grazing

conditions and now poor due to overgrazing.

However, farmers reported that they are losing

their livestock due to drought.

Uukwiyu Constituency: As it is the case with

other constituencies, majority of farmers in this

area were unable to retain enough good quality

seeds, following serious drought conditions

experienced last season. Farmers are reported to

be visiting their local ADC in search for seeds,

which at the time of this assessment have not yet

arrive in the area. Farmers use either draught

animals, tractors or both to cultivate their crop

fields. At the time of this assessment, draught

animals are reported to be weak and unfit for

ploughing services. Farmers have further

indicated that they lost some of their livestock

including draught animals to drought. Private

tractors are known to be operating in this

constituency and last season, two were registered

to participate in the government ploughing

subsidy service. Moreover, government tractor is

also expected to resume its ploughing services to

farmers, once enough rainfall is received.

Weeding groups are also said to be in operational

in the area and are expected to partake in the

government weeding subsidy scheme this season.

With regards to food household food security,

the situation was reported to be flimsy as most

households are said to have finished their last

season’s harvest and now dependent on the


On the livestock health, cases of internal

parasites in goats were reported widely in the

area. No major livestock diseases were reported

at the time of this assessment. However, farmers

reported deaths of their livestock due to hunger.

Okatana Constituency: Farmers in this area are

said to be in need of seeds, since most of them

were unable to retain seeds from last season’s

poor harvest. According to the interviewed

farmers, last season was a drought year and both

the amount of seeds obtained at household level

is very low and quality thereof is poor. Farmers

are however making regular visits to their ADC

in search for seeds. At the time of the assessment,

the first consignment of Pearl Millet and

Sorghum subsidy seeds has just arrived and are

yet to be sold to farmers. Free seeds under the

Drought Relief Program have not yet arrived in

when the assessment team visited the

constituency. A carryover stock of fertilizers

(NPK, Urea and Ammonium Sulphate) from last

season is currently available at the ADC and new

stock for this season has not yet arrived. On

ploughing services, the majority of farmers use

tractors and draught animals to cultivate their

crop fields. Draught animals were reported to be

weak due to serious drought condition and are

not really fit for ploughing services. Furthermore,

labor is generally available in terms of family

members as well as hired labour.

On the marketing of crop produce, majority of

farmers reported that due to the poor harvest

experienced last season they were unable to

obtain surplus, hence they could not sell the

produce. However, some farmers were able to

sell some of their cattle as part of rangeland

drought management measure. On the household

food security, the situation was reported to be

critical as majority of farmers are said to have

finished their last season’s harvest and are

currently dependent on the market and




assessment, except drought related conditions

which include; retained placenta, prolapsed

uterus, still birth and Dystocia.

Okatjali Constituency: Majority of farmers

indicated that they were unable to retain

sufficient good quality seeds due to the poor

harvest last season. Many farmers are reportedly


seeds which at the time of the assessment were

not yet available in the area. Moreover, farmers

were busy registering in the government dry land

crop production subsidy program. At the time of

this assessment, this area have not yet received

productive rainfall and farmers were almost done

with clearing their crop fields for cultivation, just

waiting for sufficient rainfall for them to start

cultivation. However, draught animals were

reported to be in a very poor condition and not

available for ploughing services. Many farmers

are reported to have lost some of their livestock

due to drought this year. On cultivating

implements, most farmers have hand hoes and

only some with own ploughs. On labour issues,

majority of farmers make use of family members

for agricultural activities and about five weeding

groups have been registered to take part in

weeding subsidy services. However farmers

claimed that these groups are few and not easily

accessible due to the high demand.

On the marketing aspects, farmers indicated that,

they could not sell some of their produce from

31

last season due to the poor harvest. On

household food security, the majority of

households has depleted their harvest of last

season and is now relying on the market as well

as on drought relief foods for food access. On

livestock health, no major livestock diseases


However farmers reported livestock death which

occurred due to drought related cases as

livestock are starving since the pasture is very

poor.

Ompundja Constituency: Due to drought

condition experienced last season, majority of

farmers were unable to retain sufficient good

quality seeds. At the time of the assessment, both

subsidy and free seeds have not yet arrived in the

constituency. Farmers indicated that the

constituency received little rains and as a result

the moisture was not sufficient for ploughing.

Most farmers are hopeful that good rainfall will

come in December and they will be able to start

ploughing. Farmers in this area use draught

animals, tractors and hand hoes to cultivate their

crop fields. However, at the time of this

assessment, draft animals were said to be weak

and not fit for ploughing services. Nevertheless,

it was reported that private tractors are many in

this area and farmers have indicated that they

have easy access to them. Government tractor

assigned to this constituency is also expected to

resume its services once productive rainfalls

have been received. Most Farmers in this area

use livestock manure to fertilize their crop fields.

Family members as well as hired labor are

commonly used to weed crop fields. It was also

reported that, weeding groups are expected to

partake in the weeding subsidy services this

season. On the household food security, the


households are reported to have finished their

harvest last season and are now dependent on the




assessment. However, farmers reported that they

are losing their livestock to drought, especially

cattle and donkeys.

Ondangwa Constituency: Most farmers in this

constituency indicated that they were unable to

retain seeds due to serious drought conditions

experienced last season. As a results the demand

for seeds both improved and traditional seed

varieties is very high. At the time of this

assessment, improved seeds have not yet been

received in the area and farmers are reported to

be visiting the ADC regularly in search for the

seeds. The extension official responsible for this

constituency has indicated that, improved seeds

have not yet been received in the area. With

regards to fertilizers, it was reported that, the

ADC has a carryover stock from last season

which they have already started selling to

farmers, while waiting for the new consignment

to arrive. Meanwhile, registration of farmers in

the government dry land crop production subsidy

program was still ongoing at the time of the

assessment.

Most farmers in this constituency make use of

tractors to plough their crop fields. It was

reported that there is a significant number of

private tractors known to be operating in this

area. In addition, the constituency is assigned a

government tractor since which is expected to

resume ploughing services, once enough rainfall

have been received. On the household food

security, the situation is said to be weakening as

most households are said to have depleted their

last season’s poor harvest and now dependent on


access. With regards to livestock health, cases of

internal parasite particularly in goats were

widely reported in the constituency. Moreover,

other cases reported are related to inadequate

nutrition and this includes Dystocia, retained

placenta and vaginal prolapsed. Livestock and

pasture conditions are reported to be in poor

conditions. Many farmers are reported to have

lost some of their livestock to the prevailing

drought conditions.

Ongwediva Constituency: Farmers in this area

indicated that they were unable to obtain

sufficient good quality seeds, following poor

harvest last season. At the time of the assessment,

majority of farmers are reportedly making

regular visit at the ADC in search for seed, but to

no avail. However, according to the Agricultural

Extension Official responsible for this area,

subsidy seeds had just arrived in the region

recently and they are yet to collect their share

very soon for farmer’s easy access. Free seeds

were also still being awaited and will be

distributed to farmers for free once it has arrived

in the area. Farmers in this area use draught

animal powers, tractors and hand hoes to

cultivate their crop fields. Most farmers

interviewed indicated that their land is sufficient

32

and suitable for crop production. Most farmers

do not use fertilizer, but rather use livestock

manure to fertilize their crop fields.

With regards to selling of mahangu grains, most

households interviewed have indicated that, they

did not sell, due to lack of surplus. On livestock

situation, it was reported that, livestock

particularly cattle and donkeys are succumbing

to drought and many farmers have lost some of

their animals. Although, water for livestock is

enough, grazing area is said to be very poor. On

the household food security, it was reported that

the situation is flagging as many households are

reported to have depleted their last season’s poor


and drought relief foods for food access.

Oshakati East Constituency: Despite a slight

delay in the onset of the 2013/2014 rainfall

season, most farmers are in need of seeds for

both cereal and non-cereal crops. According to

farmers, it was very difficult if not impossible

for them to obtain sufficient good quality seeds,

following serious drought conditions which

dominated the season. Many farmers therefore

makes regular visit to the ADC in search for

seeds. At the time of the assessment, the ADC

was still waiting for the seeds which have just

arrived in the region and have not yet distributed.

Farmers in the area use draught animal powers,

tractors and hand hoes to cultivate their crop

fields. Moreover, many farmers are reported to

have registered to participate in the

government’s dry land crop production subsidy

programs.


diseases were reported in the area at the time of

this assessment. However, farmers are

complaining about hunger for their livestock and

other conditions related to drought. Some

farmers have reported that they have lost some of

their livestock due to the prevailing severe

drought conditions. With regards to household

food security, the situation is said to have

weakened as many household are reported to

have depleted their last season’s harvest and are


drought relief foods for food supply.

Oshakati west constituency: Despite enough

availability of tractor services in the constituency,

majority of farmers are in need of seeds.

Following the drought and subsequent poor

harvest last season, most farmers if not all were

unable to retain seeds for both cereal and non-

cereal crops. Most farmers in this area use

livestock manure to fertilize their crop fields.

With regards to the use of fertilizers, the

constituency reported that, the demand for the

use of fertilizers has increased as compared to

the past years. Draught animals are reported to

be in poor body condition and many farmers are

reported to have lost their livestock due to

prevailing drought conditions. Furthermore,

labour is also available in terms of both family

members and hired labor. Farmers have further

indicated that cultivation tools are in place and

ready for the season, waiting to be used

especially once productive rainfall is received.

On household food security, the majority of

farmers are reported to have finished their last

season’s harvest are currently dependent on the

mark and government drought relief foods for

food access. No livestock diseases were reported

at the time of the assessment. However drought

related conditions as well as deaths due to

drought were widely reported in the area. At the

time of the assessment, various parts of this

constituency are still dry and no significant

rainfall received yet.

Uuvudhiya constituency: Most farmers in this

area were unable to retain sufficient good quality

seeds from the previous season, due to drought.

Farmers are reported to be visiting the ADC

regularly, in search for seeds. At the time of the

assessment, both free and subsidized seeds have

not yet arrive in the constituency. Furthermore,

livestock manure is mostly used in this area and

fertilizers are rarely used. At the time of this

assessment the local ADC still has a carryover

stock of fertilizers from the previous season, as

the demand for fertilizers is very low. On

ploughing services, two private tractors are

known to be operating in this area and these

tractors did not participate in the government

ploughing last season, apparently because of the

delay in payments by the government. At the

time of this assessment no tractor has been

registered yet for the government ploughing

subsidy services. Furthermore, government

tractor assigned to this constituency is expected

to resume its services soon and many farmers

have started to register. Majority of farmers in

this area use mainly draught animals to cultivate

their crop fields. On agricultural implements, the

majority of farmers are reported to have

implements such as ploughs and hand hoes ready.

On the marketing aspect, it was reported that

33

farmers did not sell their Mahangu grains to

NAB this year since there were no surplus.

However, some farmers sold their cattle as part

of the rangeland drought management measures

and claimed the livestock marketing incentives

from the government. On the livestock health,

this constituency is heavy overstock with cattle

from Oshana, Omusati, Oshikoto and

Ohangwena region and at the time of the

assessment, cattle were still dying as drying as

drought conditions intensify. It was reported that,

livestock were dying due to poor grazing

conditions as well as water shortages in the area.

Farmers reported that some of their livestock are

weak to the extent that they are unable to wake

up on their own and as such they have to be

assisted. Most cattle herd in this area use to take

their livestock to Oponona Lake for water supply,

but the lake was also drying up due to drought

conditions. Rotten carcasses of livestock,

particularly cattle were seen lying around the

lake and some weak cattle failing to wake up

were also seen along the lake. Furthermore, cases

of internal parasites were widely reported

especially in donkeys.

On the household food security, most households

are reported to have depleted their last season’s

poor harvest and are currently dependent on the

market purchases and government drought relief


Oshikoto Region

Constituencies

Eengodi Constituency: Most farmers in this

constituency were unable to obtain good quality

seeds due to poor harvest experienced last season.

Farmers further reported that, there was a slight

delay in the onset of the 2013/2014 crop season.

At the time of the assessment, this area was still

dry and productive rainfall has not yet been

received. Most farmers in this area uses draft

animal to cultivate their crop fields, which

according to farmers are weak and unfit for

ploughing services. However, some farmers are

reported to have taken some of their livestock

including draught animal to cattle posts for better

grazing conditions.

34

At the time of the assessment, the region was in a process of making transport

arrangements to collect their pearl millet seeds from the Northern Namibia Seed

Growers Cooperative in Mahenene in the Omusati region. The region further

reported that it has a carryover stock of sorghum and maize seeds as well as fertilizers

from last season and they have already started selling to the farmers. The region further

reported that they are still waiting for the free seeds under the government Drought

Relief Program as well as new stock of fertilizers to arrive. Government tractors are

reported to be ready for ploughing services and are expected to be dispatched to various

constituency once sufficient rainfall have been received. Private tractors as well as

weeding groups are also expected to participate in the government ploughing and

weeding subsidy services respectively. However, farmers indicated their concern about

the poor condition of draught animals which according to them drought animals are

currently weak and may not be available immediately for ploughing services. Majority

of farmers especially in the eastern part of the region use draught animal power to

cultivate their crop fields. Moreover, many farmers have registered for the government

ploughing subsidy services. Furthermore, seeds are stingily available at household level

as many farmers were unable to retain sufficient good quality seeds from last season’s

harvest due to drought situation. With regards to household food security, the situation

is fragile as the number of food insecure people is on the rise. According to most

household interviewed, their little harvest from last season’s poor harvest has been

depleted and is now dependent on the market and drought relief foods for food access.

Although, government drought relief food distribution is taking place in the region, the

Regional Councilors’ Office indicated that the amount of food received monthly is not

enough when compared to the rising number of food insecure people in the region. As a

result, the distribution of food to registered beneficiary is done on alternate basis, that if

a beneficiary received food this month, he/she will only receive after two or three

months. On the livestock health, no major livestock diseases were reported except

drought related conditions such as while internal parasite in goats were widely reported

in most parts of the region.

With regards to marketing of pearl millet grains,

farmers indicated that there were no surpluses to

sell due to poor harvest last season. No major

livestock diseases were reported at the time of

the assessment. However, farmers reported that

they have lost some of their livestock due to

drought and hoping for better rainfall

performance this season in order to revive their

animals. On the household food security, the

situation is said to be weakening since most



and drought relief food for food access.

Guinas Constituency: Most farmers in this area

were unable to retain enough good quality seeds,

following poor harvest last season. Farmers are

reportedly making regular visits to the ADC in

search for seeds which were not yet available at

the time of this assessment. The local ADC

indicated that, they were still waiting for both

improved and drought relief seeds to arrive in the

region so that they can take their share in order

to distribute it to farmers. The ADC further

indicated that they have a carryover stock of

fertilizers from last season which they have

already started selling to farmers. Draught

animals are commonly used in this area for

ploughing and weeding, but these animals are

reported to be weak due to the prevailing drought

conditions. Many farmers are said to have lost

some of their livestock to drought. Furthermore,

private tractors are hardly found in this area and

the government tractor assigned to this

constituency does not meet the rising demand

from the farmers for ploughing services. On

agricultural implements farmers reported that

their tools are okay and ready for the season.

Furthermore, labour is available but hired labour

is only available to farmers who can afford to

pay for services rendered.

On the marketing aspect, farmers indicated that

there was no surplus to sell, since the harvest

was poor last season. However, some farmers

sold some of their livestock as part of the

rangeland drought management program. The

food security is weakening as most households

are reported to have finished their little harvest

from last season and are currently dependent on


access. No major livestock diseases were

reported at the time of this assessment, except

drought related conditions and deaths due to

drought.

Okankolo Constituency: Most farmers in this

area indicated that they were unable to obtain

sufficient good quality seeds due to drought

conditions experienced last season. At the time

of this assessment, subsidy as well as free seeds

has not yet been received in the area. However, it

was reported that, the ADC has limited quantity

of fertilizers in stock which they already have

started selling to the farmers. Farmers further

reported that, there is a delay in the start of the

2013/2014 rain season. According to farmers, no

significant rainfall was received since the

beginning of the rain season in October.

Most farmers in this area use draught animals to

cultivate their crop fields, but at the time of this

assessment, draught animals are reported to be

weak and unfit for ploughing services. Farmers

however, expressed their skepticisms about the

availability of draught animals and indicated that

there is a shortage of tractor services in the area.

There are about two private tractors known to be

operating in the area, just in addition to

government tractor. No major livestock diseases


However, most of the livestock cases reported

are related to hunger and this include: Dystocia

and retained placenta in cattle as well as deaths

due to drought. With regards to household food

security, the situation was reported to be fragile

as there majority of households are reported to

have depleted the little they have harvested from

last seasons’ poor harvest and are now dependent



Olukonda constituency: The majority of

farmers in this constituency reported that they

don’t have seeds retained from the previous

season following the poor harvest and by the

time of this assessment farmers were busy

registering at the councilor’s office for free GRN

seeds. Furthermore, some farmers indicated that

they are eagerly waiting to buy subsidized seeds

from their local ADC. Moreover, the demand for

fertilizers is not high in comparison to the

demand of seeds and majority of farmers make

use of kraal manure, however there are some

farmers who also make use of fertilizers. The

majority of farmers indicated that the condition

of draught animal power is poor hence not yet fit

to plough and farmers reported that they will

rather prefer tractor services for ploughing.

Furthermore, by the time of this assessment, six

private tractor owners registered for ploughing

35

services which will be supplemented by one

GRN tractor and the demand is high. The

majority of farmers indicated that they were busy

with clearing, spreading kraal manure in their

crop fields as well as dry planting during the

assessment period and which they reportedly

started during November. On ploughing

implements, the majority of farmers indicated

that they have hand hoes and only few farmers

who have ploughs as the majority of farmers

prefer tractors for ploughing activities.

Furthermore, farmers also indicated that the

common means of labour are family members as

well as weeding groups and by the time of this

assessment, three weeding groups had registered

in order to take part in weeding subsidy services.


were not able to sell some of their produce due to

the poor harvest of last season. Furthermore,

household food security was reported to be poor,

since the majority of households have depleted

their harvest and is depending on the marketing

for food access as well on drought relief food.

On livestock health, the majority of farmers

indicated that no major livestock diseases were

experienced. However, drought related cases are

common following the poor grazing due to

drought as well as overgrazing in the

constituency, which results in livestock being

weak and eventually some are dying.

Omuntele Constituency: Like other

constituencies in the region, majority of farmers

were unable to retain sufficient good quality

seeds from last season due to drought

experienced last seasons. At the time of the

assessment, the ADC was still waiting for both

subsidy and free seeds. No significant amount of

rainfall received and most parts of this area was

still dry. A carryover stock of fertilizers from last

season was still available at the ADC. It was

further reported that, most farmers in this area

used livestock manure rather than inorganic

fertilizers. Three private tractors were registered

to participate in the government ploughing

subsidy services this season as compared to

about six tractors last season. Additionally, the

government tractor is reported to be on standby

and is expected to start ploughing services, once

enough rainfall is received. Farmers use both

tractors and drought animals to cultivate their


livestock including draught animals were

reported in poor to very poor conditions and

according to farmers, draft animals are not fit for

ploughing service. One weeding group was

registered to partake in the government weeding

subsidy services, and more groups are expected

to follow suit.


situation is reported to be weakening as most


food stock from last season’s harvest and are

currently dependent on the market and or

drought relief foods for food supply. On the

livestock health, cases of internal parasites in

both goats and donkeys were widely reported in

the constituency. No major livestock diseases


However, farmers indicated that the problem

they are facing is hunger for their livestock due

to drought which is said to have claimed the

lives of many livestock.

Omuthiya Constituency: Farmers in this area

reported that they were unable to obtain

sufficient good quality seed due to severe

drought conditions experienced last season.

Nevertheless, this constituency has just received

their first seed consignment and was in the

process of informing the farmers about the

availability of seeds at the ADC. With regards to

fertilizers, the ADC has limited carryover stock

from last season which they had already started

selling to farmers, while waiting for a new stock

to arrive. On ploughing services, draught animals

were reported to be weak and unfit for ploughing

services. In addition to the government tractor,

two private tractors were registered to participate

in the government ploughing subsidy scheme as

compared to three last seasons. However,

farmers are skeptical about the reliability of

tractor services due to the high demand in the

area. At the time of the assessment, the majority

of farmers were busy with spreading kraal

manure in their crop fields, fencing their crop

fields, and waiting for the rain to start. At the

time of this assessment five weeding groups had

been registered to participate in the government

weeding subsidy scheme. Last season, only two

weeding groups took part in weeding services.

On the marketing aspect, majority of farmers did

not sell their crop produce indicating that, the

harvest was very poor because of drought last

season. On the household food security, the


households are reported to have finished up food

stock from own production and are now


36

drought relief foods for food access. Regarding

the livestock issues, body condition is reported to

be poor in most places and very poor in other

areas. Livestock diseases reported included Gall

sickness and Botulism were reported in

Onashikuvu villages and the surrounding area.

Farmers indicated that, no major disease reported,

except hunger and its concomitants

circumstances. Many farmers are reported to

have lost some of their livestock due to drought.

Onayena constituency: The majority of farmers

indicated that they don’t have seeds and by the

time of this assessment, farmers were busy

registering for free GRN seeds. However, there

are few farmers who indicated that they only

have few seeds, which they will need to

supplement by buying subsidized seeds at their

local ADC. Furthermore, kraal manure is

commonly used by the majority of farmers in

their crop fields; however there are some farmers

who also make use of fertilizers. The conditions

of draught animal power were reported to be in

fair condition and farmers were optimistic that as

the season progresses the draught animals will be

fit for ploughing. Furthermore, the majority of

farmers indicated that they make use of either

GRN or private tractor services or draught

animals for ploughing activities. Moreover, by

the time of this assessment, the majority of

farmers were busy with fencing as well as

spreading kraal manure in their crop fields.

On ploughing implements, the majority of

farmers indicated that they have hand hoes and

ploughs readily available for the cropping season.

On labour issues, the majority of farmers

reported that family members, hired labour as

well as weeding groups are commonly used in

the constituency for agricultural activities and by

the time of this assessment, 15 weeding groups

had registered for subsidized weeding services.


reported that they could not sell some of their

produce due to the poor harvest of last season.

Furthermore, household food security was

reported to be poor as the majority of farmers

indicated that they are receiving drought relief

food as well as relying on the market for food

access. On livestock health, farmers reported that

there are no major livestock diseases experienced

in the constituency, however livestock are

recovering from the devastating drought

following few showers received in the

constituency and farmers indicated that the

pasture is also recovering.

Oniipa Constituency: Farmers indicated that

they don’t have seeds following last season’s

poor harvest, however they are hoping to buy

seeds at the local ADC as soon as possible when

seeds will be made available at the ADC.

Furthermore, farmers in this ward indicated that

they usually make use of both kraal manure as

well as fertilizers. Moreover, the condition of

draught animal power is very weak, however the

majority of farmers indicated that they usually

make use of either GRN or private tractors

services for ploughing activities since draught

animal power are rarely used in this ward.

Furthermore, by the time of this assessment, four

private tractor owners had registered for

ploughing services this season, which is

supplemented by one GRN tractor and the

demand is very high this season, given the poor

condition of draught animal power. Moreover,

by the time of this assessment, farmers were

busy spreading kraal manure in their crop fields,

fencing as well as some farmers had started with

dry planting, which they reportedly started

during October. On ploughing implements, the

majority of farmers have hand hoes, however

some farmers don’t own ploughs but they

usually hire from others. Furthermore, the

majority of farmers make use of hired labour as

well as family members for agricultural activities.


indicated that the harvest was very low last

season as a result they could not sell some of

their produce. Furthermore, on household food

security, the majority of households have

depleted their produce of last season and by the

time of this assessment they were depending on

the market for food access as well as on drought

relief food. On livestock health, no major

livestock diseases were reported by farmers,

however farmers experienced livestock death due

to drought related cases. Lastly, the pasture is

generally poor, however by the time of this

assessment, few showers were received in the

ward and farmers were optimistic that the pasture

is recovering as the season progresses.

Onyaanya Constituency: Due to a poor crop

harvest obtained last season, majority of farmers

were unable to obtain enough seeds for this

season. As a result, farmers make regular visits

to their local ADC in search of seeds. At the time

of this assessment, subsidy as well as free seeds

have not yet arrive in the area. Moreover,

37

farmers noted that there has been a delay in the

onset of the rain which according to them

productive rainfall have not yet been received by

the time of this assessment. It was reported that,

this constituency has a significant numbers of

private tractors operating in the area and many of

them do partake in the government ploughing

subsidy program. In addition, government tractor

assigned to this area is also said to be on standby,

waiting for enough rainfall for it’s to start the

ploughing services. Many farmers are reported to

have registered for this service as well as other

subsidy services such as seeds and fertilizers.

Farmers use both animal draught power animals

and tractors to cultivate their crop fields.

Regarding the sale of surplus, most farmers

could not sell their crop harvests due to lack of

surplus, following poor harvest last season.

However, on the livestock sale, some farmers

sold some of their livestock as part of the

rangeland drought management program and

claimed the subsidy from the government. The

household food security was reported to be

weakening as most households are said to have

depleted their own production and are currently

dependent on the market and or drought relief

foods for food. Livestock conditions are reported

to range between fair and very poor. Farmers

reported that, they have lost some of their

livestock due to prevailing drought conditions in

the area. With regards to livestock health, no

major livestock diseases were reported except

hunger for livestock as well as drought related

conditions such as retained placenta, stillbirth,

vaginal prolapse, Dystocia, particularly in cattle.

38

8. CONCLUSION AND RECOMENDATIONS

The main findings of the assessment are that: The country is still suffering from the

effects of serious drought which have started last season, affecting the agricultural

production negatively. As a result, household food security situation is fragile and

weakening in the regions, most households are reported to have finished their little last

season’s harvest between July and August this year and are currently dependent on the

market and government drought relief foods for food access. Last season’s poor harvest

has leads to serious shortages of seeds both at individual farmer’s level and regional level.

Poor grazing conditions were reported in the regions and the situation is exacerbated by a

delay in the start of the rainfall. To this end, majority of farmers are reported to have lost

many of their livestock to drought. Water shortages for livestock due to drought

conditions were also been in most parts of the country. Based on these findings, the

following strategies (but not limited to) are suggested for possible interventions and

future assistance to improve agricultural production:

For the weakening food security situation, it is thus suggested that the drought

relief food program should continue especially to the most vulnerable groups

affected by food deficits until such a time that, the affected people are able to

regain their normal livelihoods, pending the outcomes of the 2013/2014

agricultural production.

The Directorate of Research and Training, Directorate of Extension and

Engineering Services (DEES) as well as the Directorate Disaster Risk

Management in the Office of the Prime Minister are urged to procure and provide

seeds to the affected farmers.

Provision of timely support in the form of subsidies with agricultural inputs such

as seed, fertilizers, draft animals, tractors, ploughing and weeding services by the

DEES is strongly advised

39

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The National Early Warning and Food Information Unit of the Directorate of Planning

use information from various institutions and organisations within Namibia in order to

compile this report. In no particular order, this report was compiled with the aid of

primary information and reports sourced from the following Institutions and

Organisations.

Directorate of Extension and Engineering Services (DEES)

Directorate of Research and Training (DRT)

Regional Councils

Namibian Agronomic Board (NAB)

Northern Namibia Farmers Seed Growers’ Cooperative

Likwama Farmers Association

Meteorological Services of Namibia

Directorate of Disaster Risk Management

Directorate of Veterinary Services

Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA)

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national early warning and food information system€¦ · december 2013 – january-february 2014...

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