By: Loise Shiimi
Harvesting figures for 20 specialised crops indicate that domestic producers will only meet domestic demand for butternuts and cucumbers. The remaining crops will be imported, as per the notice issued to all horticulture traders on 20 March 2026 by Namibia Agronomic Board (NAB) chief executive officer, Fidelis Mwazi.
Mwazi indicated that the importation of all types and sizes of butternut and English cucumber would be prohibited, with certain exceptions, while the border will be open for importation for other crops, guided by local volumes.
During this rainy season, many farmers are grappling with pests, diseases, and excessive rainfall, resulting in the decision to restrict the importation of just two crops, butternut and English cucumber, out of the 20 controlled agricultural products from 1-30 April.
The NAB indicated that this restriction stems from the adverse effects of heavy rainfall, which makes crops particularly susceptible to pests and diseases during this season.
“While many farmers have made an effort to grow these crops, the challenges posed by rainfall and pests have limited their yields. If not for these factors, the local production could have been more substantial,” noted the board.
The NAB explained that the importance of issuing this monthly notice was that it served as a tool for farmers to identify market gaps and understand which crops are in demand.
“It helps farmers know what is lacking in the local market so that they can plant accordingly. Additionally, it allows them to assess which crops are available in larger quantities, which helps prevent overproduction of the same crop, thereby reducing the risk of losses. Furthermore, it serves to protect local producers from competition posed by cheaper and often inferior imports,” shared the NAB.
Despite the restrictions on butternut and English cucumber, Mwazi stated that nine other crops remain open for unrestricted importation, although a 47% Market Share Promotion (MSP) applies. This indicates that local farmers are currently unable to produce sufficient quantities of these crops to satisfy domestic demand. The crops open for importation include beetroot, carrots, gem squash, washed potatoes, onions, watermelons, sweet melons, lettuce, and spinach.
The MSP scheme is part of the Growth-at-Home strategy implemented by NAB, aimed at boosting local horticultural production and promoting the sale of domestically produced fresh fruits and vegetables. This initiative encourages importers such as wholesalers, catering companies, and retailers to source locally.
To complement local production when farmers fail to meet demand fully, Mwazi announced that three products would be allowed for importation on a pro rata basis. He directed that all types and sizes of cabbage, pumpkin, and both jam and round tomatoes could be imported at 50%, with specific exceptions. Additionally, coloured peppers, green peppers, cocktail tomatoes, and sweet corn would be allowed at 30%, also with exceptions. Sweet potatoes, in all types and sizes, are authorised for importation at 20%, with certain exclusions.
The NAB further urges farmers to continue their production efforts to meet national demand and to consistently view the open and closed border notices for guidance.
