Resettlement Boost: Government Mulls Bumping Up Loans for Farmers
Namibia
The Namibian government is considering a significant financial shot in the arm for resettlement farmers, with discussions underway to increase initial loan amounts from N$200,000 to N$500,000. This revelation comes amid concerns raised by the Rally for Democracy and Progress (RDP) in the National Assembly, highlighting challenges faced by those resettled on government land.
Lawmakers Kennedy Shekupakela and Utaara Mootu, Landless People’s Movement chief whip, pinpointed limited access to capital, insufficient training, water scarcity, and difficulties securing loans from commercial banks as major hurdles for these farmers.
Responding to these concerns, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Anna Shiweda, detailed existing support measures. Since 2009, the ministry, in partnership with Agribank, has offered a N$30 million revolving fund providing no-collateral loans of N$200,000 to resettled farmers. However, the program faces a significant challenge – a staggering 48% loan repayment deficit.
Despite this, Minister Shiweda emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering these farmers. Discussions are ongoing with Agribank to explore the possibility of doubling the loan amount to N$500,000, aiming to equip them with the resources needed to thrive.
The Ministry isn’t solely focused on finances. Pre- and post-settlement training programs are offered to equip farmers with the knowledge and skills necessary for success. Additionally, the ministry acknowledges the ever-present challenge of water scarcity in Namibia’s semi-arid climate. To address this, they have procured drilling rigs to improve water access by establishing boreholes on resettlement farms.
Budgetary constraints were acknowledged as a limiting factor in providing all the necessary support. However, the Ministry is actively tackling another concern – transparency in resettlement allocation.
Minister Shiweda assured stakeholders that acquired resettlement farms are advertised in print media and regional governor’s offices. Regional resettlement committees, chaired by governors, convene monthly to evaluate applications and related issues. These committees recommend suitable candidates to the Land Reform Advisory Commission, which then vets applications and makes recommendations to the Minister for final approval.
This increased financial impetus, coupled with ongoing training initiatives and efforts to improve water access, paints a picture of a government striving to empower resettled farmers.
Check Also: YGAP Agripreneurship Accelerator Program
