FAO to lead initiative on combating food insecurity – Windhoek Observer

Niël Terblanché

To assist Namibia in its fight against food insecurity and poverty, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is significantly stepping up its support.

Patrice Talla, the FAO Sub-Regional Coordinator for Southern Africa, has arrived in Namibia on a mission to understand how the international body can assist in fortifying the nation’s resilience against the backdrop of climatic adversities.

This timely visit, orchestrated by the FAO Namibia Country Office, highlights the organization’s proactive approach towards addressing the pressing issues of food security and poverty reduction in the region.

Phillipus Tobias, the Communication Officer of the FAO Namibia Country Office, said that Talla’s trip is particularly significant as it occurs amidst the threat of potential disasters, including droughts exacerbated by the El Niño climate phenomenon.

Talla’s agenda in Namibia is comprehensive, involving strategic discussions with key governmental bodies, including the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, and the Ministries of Environment and Fisheries.

The engagement also extends to the Prime Minister’s Office and various stakeholders within the agricultural sector, underlining the collaborative effort required to tackle emergencies, disasters and other challenges at hand.

According to Tobias, Namibia is currently struggling with a series of food security challenges, primarily attributed to the adverse effects of continuing drought.

The country’s vulnerability to the impact of climate change necessitates a coordinated response to leverage the expertise and resources of international partners like the FAO.

The visit by the FAO Sub-regional Coordinator emphasizes the organization’s commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability in Southern Africa.

Through this initiative, the FAO aims to empower Namibian authorities and stakeholders to implement effective strategies for achieving food security and reducing poverty, thereby ensuring the well-being of its population in the face of environmental uncertainties.

Talla’s visit will focus on fostering resilience and promoting sustainable agricultural practices among Namibian communities.

The collaboration between the FAO and Namibia represents a hopeful stride towards mitigating the impacts of climate change on food security, setting a precedent for regional cooperation in addressing global challenges.