By Agnes Tjindjo
The Namibia Rural Women’s Assembly was part of the Organic Agriculture and Agroecology conference with other various stakeholders from the agriculture sectors in Namibia and abroad. The conference took place in Windhoek at the Windhoek showground on 28th August 2024. The conference aimed at enhancing understanding of organic agriculture and agroecology as well as highlighting the opportunities it provides for Namibian farmers and the agriculture sector. NRWA was excited to be contributing to the conference and being part of the panelist that focused on the interactive program looking into the challenges that the agricultural sectors face regarding topics such as climate change, the current food system, and the policy sphere as well as into solutions and opportunities that organic agriculture and agroecology hold for this challenge.
The discussion at the recent conference highlighted the urgent need for a shift in how communities view land use for food production. With advancements in farming methods and technologies, it’s now possible to produce substantial amounts of food on smaller plots of land, a perspective strongly advocated by participants. This approach encourages efficient land use and could alleviate conflicts over large land areas, making it a sustainable solution for future generations.
One major challenge pinpointed was water scarcity, which affects both crop yields and the choice of farming techniques. Additionally, the lack of market opportunities, suitable distribution channels, policy support, and the high cost of modern farming equipment were recognized as significant barriers. These issues call for a more supportive framework for small-scale farmers, particularly in Namibia, where there is a need for more targeted information on the environmental impacts of land and food production.
A pivotal development during the conference was the introduction of the Technical Working Group on Organic Agriculture and Agroecology Strengthening (TWG-OAAS). Hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, with the Namibia Nature Foundation serving as the secretariat, this group aims to integrate organic and agroecological practices into Namibia’s agriculture sector. This initiative represents a significant step toward promoting sustainable agriculture practices that ensure the regenerative use of natural resources and maintain ecosystem services.
Experts at the conference emphasized the critical role of agriculture in ensuring food security and supporting economic development. They advocated for organic agriculture as a viable solution to mitigate climate change impacts while promoting sustainability in the long term. Dr. Steven Greenberg, a freelance researcher from South Africa, provided insights into broader continental initiatives, such as the African Union’s ecological organic agriculture initiative. His presentation underscored the necessity of diversifying Southern Africa’s food basket, currently dominated by grain, to include a wider range of food products.
Dr. Greenberg also shared the 13 principles associated with agroecology, advocating for a holistic approach that integrates agricultural production with other food supply chain aspects. This broader perspective is crucial for developing a more comprehensive understanding of sustainable practices and ensuring equitable and sustainable food systems where individuals have the right to choose their food based on production methods and origin.