EU Handover Livestock Trucks to Boost Livestock Marketing in the Northern Namibia

In a move set to boost livestock marketing and farmer incomes, the National Planning Commission, in partnership with the European Union, officially handed over five livestock trucks and trailers to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform. Valued at N$20.68 million, these trucks will support farmers in the Northern Communal Areas (NCAs) to market their cattle and build sustainable agricultural value chains.

The event, held in Windhoek, marks a key milestone under the Livestock Support Programme (LSP), a government-led initiative funded by the EU through the 11th European Development Fund (EDF 11).

The five trucks and trailers will be deployed to government-owned abattoirs across the NCAs to ease long-standing transport challenges that have made it difficult for communal farmers to access formal livestock markets. This intervention will help reduce high transport costs, improve offtake, and enhance animal welfare during transit.

The trucks were procured under the LSP and implemented by the Directorate of Veterinary Services and the Directorate of Planning and Business Development within the Ministry, in close cooperation with regional and local authorities, farmers’ associations, and veterinary field staff.

The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Namibia in building a modern, competitive, and inclusive livestock sector. The trucks handed over symbolise the EU’s shared promise to improve livelihoods, expand market access, and strengthen rural economies in the NCAs. Under its Global Gateway initiative, the EU is proud to stand with Namibia in driving sustainable and inclusive agricultural development. The EU’s support is delivered as part of its broader Global Gateway strategy, which promotes sustainable investment in agriculture, climate action, education, and infrastructure worldwide.

The LSP is a flagship programme under EDF 11, supporting various components of the livestock value chain, including veterinary infrastructure, animal health services, and market access. This latest intervention reflects the Government’s commitment to inclusive agricultural development and aligns with the goals of the soon-to-be-launched Namibia’s Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6).

This joint effort underscores a shared commitment to ensuring that no farmer is left behind and marks an important step towards a broader vision of equitable, sustainable rural development.