Drought Relief

PDM challenges government decision to end drought relief

The Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) has raised serious concerns over the Office of the Prime Minister’s (OPM) decision to scale down drought relief food distribution in parts of the country. The opposition party has labelled the move premature and potentially dangerous, particularly for severely affected regions like Kunene and Erongo, where communities are still struggling with food insecurity and worsening livestock losses. According to a recent government announcement, certain areas […]

14 July, 2025

Namibia

Heavy Rainfall and Drought Devastation Hit Omaheke Region

Heavy rains in Omaheke have damaged key roads like Okatumba and Ombujonganga, with residents urging bridge construction to prevent future disruptions. Farmers in the drought-hit region faced severe cattle losses, totaling an estimated N$4.4 million, before the January rains. In Windhoek, over 1,000 Otjomuise residents were displaced after flash floods destroyed homes in the MG Division area. City Councillor Ivan Skrywer announced plans to relocate affected residents to Farm […]

7 January, 2025

Business / Economics

Namibia and China strengthen ties during high-level talks

Swakopmund, Namibia – President Nangolo Mbumba hosted Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Swakopmund during a meeting aimed at reinforcing the long-standing partnership between the two nations. The talks focused on advancing Namibia and China’s Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and exploring new avenues for cooperation in key development areas. Speaking during the engagement, President Mbumba reaffirmed Namibia’s commitment to strengthening ties with China, particularly in energy, infrastructure, education, and tourism. […]

6 January, 2025

Namibia

Financial Struggles Worsen as State Support and Shack Dwellings Increase

About 25% of Namibians earning an income spend only N$521 monthly, while 90% cannot afford more than N$5,000, reflecting widespread financial struggles, according to Cirrus Capital. State support sustains nearly a quarter of households, with drought relief beneficiaries doubling to 364,927 in 2024. Shack dwellers now make up 28.7% of households, tripling since 2011 to 217,000, especially in the Khomas region. Rising inflation and declining self-sourced income have worsened inequality […]

19 December, 2024

Business / Economics

FNB Namibia Offers Drought Relief Loans to Farmers

FNB Namibia is stepping up to assist farmers affected by the ongoing drought in the country. In line with the Bank of Namibia’s recent policy changes, FNB is offering loan moratoriums, restructuring, and emergency funding under preferential terms to qualifying agricultural clients. These measures aim to provide financial relief to farmers until October 2026. CEO Sepo Haihambo emphasized that the bank is committed to supporting Namibia's agricultural sector, which is […]

5 December, 2024

Local

Bank Windhoek’s Agri Series Focuses on Drought Impact on Namibia

Bank Windhoek’s Executive Officer for Marketing and Corporate Communication Services, Jacquiline Pack, emphasized that the agriculture sector has always been a cornerstone of Namibia’s economy and society, contributing around 6% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and creating significant employment opportunities. She made this statement on Tuesday, 5 November 2024, while announcing that the fifth Agricultural Series will take place on Wednesday, 13 November 2024, in Windhoek, live on […]

6 November, 2024

Environment

Agriculture Minister supports Bank of Namibia’s drought relief policy

The Bank of Namibia has introduced a financial relief policy for farmers affected by ongoing drought, which includes loan restructuring, debt moratoriums, and emergency funding at preferential terms. Agriculture Minister Calle Schlettwein expressed support for the policy in an interview with Future Media, emphasising the need for financial products tailored to the agricultural sector's unique challenges. Minister Schlettwein, discussing Namibia's response to climate change, further highlighted the importance […]

29 October, 2024

Environment

Bank of Namibia Orders Financial Relief for Drought-Stricken Farmers

The Bank of Namibia has directed local financial institutions to establish relief measures designed to support farmers and agricultural businesses facing severe financial difficulties caused by the ongoing drought. BoN’s Director of Strategic Communications and International Relations, Kazembire Zemburuka, explained that this move follows a state of emergency declaration in response to what is described as the worst drought Namibia has experienced in a century, according to The Brief.

29 October, 2024

Namibia

Cabinet Approves Key Initiatives in Drought Relief, Water Management, and Economic Stability

In a recent cabinet meeting, several key decisions were made to tackle pressing issues in Namibia. The Cabinet approved actions for drought relief, including a budget allocation and the enrollment of over 64,000 households. It emphasized the need to allocate 5% of the national budget for water management to meet Sustainable Development Goal 6. The Total Allowable Catch for rock lobster was set for the upcoming fishing season, and […]

18 October, 2024