In a strategic response to the impending drought crisis, Namibia’s Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform (MAWLR) has taken a pioneering step by relaxing regulations on the importation of mahangu and beans from neighboring Angola. This bold initiative aims to bolster dwindling reserves and alleviate the looming threat of food scarcity.
Revolutionizing Imports Amidst Adversity: Amid the specter of drought, Ndiyapuki Nghituwamata, the MAWLR Executive Director, has spearheaded a groundbreaking approach to trade. The permission to import mahangu and beans is currently restricted to the Oshikango border post, a region where such imports have witnessed increased traction.
A Departure from Tradition: Phytosanitary Easement: The hallmark of this initiative is the temporary waiver of stringent phytosanitary requirements for the importation of mahangu grains and beans procured from Angola within a 60-kilometer radius. This concession, primarily intended for personal consumption, aims to ensure the vitality of plants, safeguard health, and alleviate the burden on individuals struggling to comply with onerous mandatory protocols.
Empowering Small-Scale Importers: Of noteworthy significance is the empowerment of small-scale importers. Nghituwamata’s notice resonates with them, highlighting that controlled agronomic products (grains) can be imported for both commercial and personal use during the open border period, as opposed to the closed border period. This pragmatic approach intends to foster economic activities without compromising plant health.
Quality Assurance Through Vigilance: To maintain product quality, the Ministry plans rigorous physical inspections at the point of entry. The imported goods must hail from the latest season’s grain harvest and must be free from pests, diseases, and contaminants, including soil particles. This vigilant measure ensures that the imported staples are fit for consumption and pose no threat to domestic agriculture.
Balancing Quantity with Responsibility: Striking a harmonious balance between commerce and sustainability, the Ministry has stipulated import limits. Small-scale importers are authorized to bring in quantities ranging from 250kg to 500kg of agronomic products per person per month for commercial use, and up to 200kg per person per month for personal consumption. This calibrated approach safeguards the nation’s food security without overburdening the environment.
Streamlining the Permit Process: To facilitate compliance, MAWLR has set up designated offices for import permits at their Directorate of Agriculture Production, Extension and Engineering Services in Omafo, Ongwediva, and Outapi. This move underscores the Ministry’s commitment to maintaining a structured and organized approach to imports.
Pioneering Plant Health at the International Level: Namibia’s participation in the International Plant Protection Convention reflects its commitment to global plant health. The nation is actively engaged in enforcing measures to curb the importation and dissemination of plant pests and diseases. This proactive stance emphasizes pest control methodologies and fosters awareness through plant health education programs.
Fostering Resilience Through Innovation: As Namibia faces the imminent challenge of drought, its creative response in permitting the importation of mahangu and beans from Angola stands as a testament to proactive governance. MAWLR’s visionary approach seeks to safeguard the nation’s food security, empower local economies, and prioritize plant health. This pioneering effort not only addresses immediate concerns but also sets a precedent for responsive governance in the face of adversity.
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