On the 16th November 2022, the Namibian Agronomic Board (NAB) held a successful National Agronomy and Horticulture Awards (NAHA) ceremony at the Agriculture Showground in Grootfontein, Otjozondjupa region.
Celebrated under the theme, “Promoting growth in crop value chain development”, the awards aimed at recognising and awarding the value chain actors (producers, processors, traders, service providers and school gardens) that have contributed significantly to the development and growth of Namibia`s agronomy and horticulture industry.
The awards also aimed to recognise the role of the private sector and its contribution to national food production and food security. The awards were presented in various categories to the best performers that have demonstrated exceptional innovative agribusiness approaches, local sourcing commitment, good risk diversification, good labour relations, excellent service provision and community involvement among others.
During the ceremony, 18 overall winners were awarded various prizes and certificates. Winners also received award vouchers valued between N$ 20 000 and N$ 30 000 each.
Speaking during the awards ceremony, Dr. Fidelis Mwazi, the NAB CEO, emphasised the need for Namibia to adapt towards the green economy from the crop industry perspective.
Mwazi applauded all awards category participants for their hard work and dedication. He further encouraged all industry players to explore opportunities in agro-processing and exportation of mainly horticultural products. This is particularly so as Namibia currently imports processed horticultural (fruits and vegetables) products valued at approximately N$ 1.5 billion and only exports processed fruits and vegetable products valued at approximately N$ 3.5 million, which is mainly re-exports.