Namibia still has infestations of Parthenium hysterophorus and farmers are urged to help eradicate it while there is still a window to do so. The weed is widely regarded by researchers as one of the most damaging invasive species in Africa. The National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI) is working to address this threat and needs farmers and landowners to report all known locations of the weed. Where mature seeds have already dropped to the ground, serious spread can be exp

On Friday, 12 June members of the Joint Crime Prevention Forum (JCPF) met with senior police leadership for a constructive session focused on rural safety and agricultural security. The meeting was led by Major General Elias Mutota and brought together police heads from the various regions, supported by a strong contingent from the national office in Windhoek. The management of three of the four agricultural unions attended, along with five farming districts representing th

You might remember that last year (+/- from mid-April until the end of May) we had a lot of giraffe mortalities in Namibia. Many farmers reported finding dead giraffes and several reported seeing sick giraffes that were behaving abnormally. Here is a quick summary of the symptoms that were observed: Physical signs: Many farmers reported sick giraffes with drooping/hanging ears. A few observed excessive drooling, discharge from the eyes and some reported that the giraffes se

As we approach the Easter season, we are reminded of a time that holds deep meaning for many of us. It is a time of hope. For those who celebrate Easter as part of their Christian faith, we commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ — a powerful reminder of life after hardship and light after darkness. In agriculture, we live this truth every day. We work with the rhythm of the seasons, through times of uncertainty and times of growth, of patience and of perseverance.

The Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) within the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform (MAFWLR), in collaboration with key stakeholders such as the Livestock and Livestock Products Board of Namibia (LLPBN), the FMD Support Fund, and Namibian Farmers’ Unions and Associations, will conduct a Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) Regional Awareness Campaign from 16–20 March 2026. The campaign will take place in the following regions: Omaheke, Otjozondjupa, Oshi

In November 2025, the Livestock Producers Organisation (LPO) took the initiative to establish an FMD Support Fund and Coordination Centre in response to the increasing risk of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD). Within a short time, this initiative received broad support across the entire livestock value chain. The four agricultural unions, namely the NAU, NECFU, NNFU and PDNFU, private-sector stakeholders, as well as the Livestock and Livestock Products Board of Namibia (LLPBN) an