26 Nov 2015

 An alliance between Ngamiland and Ghanzi Farmers Associations could bring desirable results, says agricultural expert, Mr Malcom Thomas.

Mr Thomas, who was a facilitator between Ngamiland and Ghanzi Farmers Associations, underscored the importance of collaborations between the two associations.

He was brought by the government from Ireland to revive farmers associations in the country. He said the alliance of the seven associations; three from Ngamiland and four from Ghanzi, was advantageous to lobby government on policies and issues that affected agriculture as a team from the western region of the country.

He urged the farmers to guard against personal differences and interests, but to represent the interests of their members.

Ngamiland Farmers Association chairperson, Mr Frank Mafela said their coalition was long overdue as beef farmers.

Mr Mafela noted that they had sought audience with the government over some issues as fragmented farmers associations in the past, and that their united dialogue with government was susceptible to produce positive results. He reiterated that differences should not divide the farmers’ coalition.

Ghanzi Farmers Association chairperson, Mr Alwyn Van Den Heever pointed out that they remained united as beef farmers with beef production as their ultimate goal. Mr Van Den Heever said the Foot and Mouth Disease, which bedeviled Ngamiland District still remained a threat to the Ghanzi District.

He said their focus should be on beef production, and that their differences should not deviate them from their goal.

The alliance, he said, was a milestone that was of benefit to the beef industry and the future generation. Furthermore, he appreciated the Irish experts for their contribution to the beef farmers of Ngamiland and Ghanzi. Ends