The sixth edition of the Bank Windhoek Agri Series brought together leading voices from government, finance, and the agricultural sector at the Namibia Institute of Public Administration and Management (NIPAM) in Windhoek on Thursday, 6 November 2025.
The event highlighted the vital role of genetic diversity in driving agricultural resilience and boosting productivity across Namibia’s farming communities. It gathered farmers, researchers, educationalists, public and private sector partners to discuss strategies for strengthening Namibia’s agricultural foundation in the face of climate pressures, shifting markets, and rising consumer expectations.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform’s Deputy Executive Director, Kingsley Kwenani, who delivered the keynote address on behalf of the Minister, Dr Inge Zaamwani, emphasised the critical role of genetic diversity in driving agricultural transformation. “Genetic diversity is not a luxury; it is a necessity. It underpins our ability to adapt, innovate, and compete, enabling drought tolerance, pest resistance, nutritional enhancement, and improved yields. These traits are essential for building a resilient and inclusive agri-food system.”
Kwenani outlined how genetic diversity supports Namibia’s Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), fostering productive capacity, environmental sustainability, and inclusive socio-economic development. He said that strategic programmes, such as the Namibia Agricultural Mechanisation and Seed Improvement Project (NAMSIP), Conservation Agriculture and Climate-Smart Initiatives (CCAP II), the Livestock Support Programme, and expanded investments in seed and irrigation, are operationalising these priorities.
Kwenani highlighted the newly developed Strategy for the Transformation of the Agri-Food Sector in Namibia (STAS), which sets out priority areas for investment and stakeholder roles, serving as a blueprint for the agriculture chapter in NDP6. “Let this Agri Series mark a turning
point where vision meets action, and where Namibia’s agricultural future is shaped by unity, innovation, and resolve,” he said.
Bank Windhoek Managing Director James Chapman, who welcomed the attendees, reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to supporting agricultural advancement through tailored financial solutions, sustainability loans, and strategic partnerships. “As a proudly Namibian financial institution, Bank Windhoek recognises the strategic importance of agriculture as a cornerstone of our nation’s economy and food security. Our partnership with John Deere and support for sustainable agriculture projects exemplify our dedication to empowering farmers and promoting environmental stewardship,” said Chapman.
The Agri Series featured expert presentations from Jacque Els of the Namibia Stud Breeders Association, Thinus Pretorius of the Namibia Agricultural Union, Erastus Ngaruka of Agribank, and Goi Geurtse of SWAVET, each offering insights into genetic diversity, sustainable farming practices, rangeland management, and animal health. Their contributions underscored the importance of innovation, knowledge-sharing, and partnership in driving the sector forward. The experts deliberated on pressing matters within the agricultural industry, offering solutions while emphasising the need for collective action as Namibians.
Established in 2019, the Bank Windhoek Agri Series serves as a platform for dialogue, empowerment, and progress in Namibia’s agricultural community, fostering inclusion and resilience through knowledge exchange and collaboration. This year’s focus on genetic diversity is seen as pivotal for improving quality, resilience, and yield, securing the future of agriculture in Namibia. The full event recording will be available on the Bank Windhoek YouTube platform soon.
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