Since its inception in 2018, the Bank Windhoek Agricultural Series has served as a platform that brings together farmers, researchers, and industry experts to exchange knowledge and promote progress within Namibia`s agricultural sector.
The 2025 theme, “Understanding Genetic Diversity in Agriculture”, focused on how genetic variation enhances productivity, adaptability, and sustainability in farming.
In a keynote address, delivered on her behalf by the Deputy Executive Director responsible for Agricultural Development, Kingsley Kwenani, the Minister of Agriculture, fisheries, Water and Land Reform, Inge Zamwaani-Kamwi highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in building a resilient and sustainable agricultural future for Namibia.
She underscored the importance of this year`s theme, stating that genetic diversity is not a luxury, it is a necessity. It underpins the ability to adapt, innovate, and compete. It also enables drought tolerance, pest resistance, nutritional enhancement, and improved yields, traits that are essential for building a resilient and inclusive agri-food system.
According to Zaamwani; generic diversity is strategic important for Namibia as it provides for the foundation of; higher and more stable yields, improved product quality, resilience to climate and biological risks, innovation and value addition.
In his welcoming remarks Bank Windhoek Managing Director, James Chapman highlighted that Bank Windhoek recognises the strategic importance of agriculture as a cornerstone of the nation`s economy and food security. Hence, the Bank will remain deeply committed to supporting the sector`s advancement through tailored financial solutions that respond to the sector`s diverse needs – from transactional and savings products to flexible financing for production, working capital, and long-term investment.
James emphasised that this year`s theme, “Understanding Genetic Diversity in Agriculture”, is both timely and forward-looking.
“As we adapt to changing climates and shifting market demands, genetic diversity is fundamental to improving quality, resilience, and yield – and to securing the future of agriculture in Namibia”, he said.
The dialogue is considered to be timely and aligned with Namibia`s sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), which places agriculture at the heart of economic diversification, food security, and rural development.
The Agri-Series consisted of knowledgeable speakers who had a panel discussions on various topics such as; Genetic Diversity; The foundation for selection and progress (presented by Jacques Els, Manager : Namibia Stud Breeders Association), Exploring Agriculture Practices in Namibia (presented by Thinus Pretorius, President: Namibia Agricultural Union), Sustainable Rangeland agroecosystem (presented by Erastus Ngaruka, Technical Advisor : Livestock & Rangeland Agri Advisory Service Division, Agribank), Feeding the Future: Investing in Health for Agricultural Prosperity (presented by Goi Geurtse, Operations Manager: SWAVET (Pty) Ltd
