Etunda Feedlot Breaks Ground: A Game-Changer for Namibia’s Livestock Future

Momentum is building in Namibia’s livestock sector as the government, in partnership with the European Union, breaks ground on the transformative N$78.9 million Etunda Feedlot — a facility set to reshape communal cattle farming in the Northern Communal Areas (NCAs).

Source: Informante

Set within the fertile lands of the Etunda Irrigation Scheme near Ruacana, the feedlot is designed to house 1,000 cattle and will act as a vital link between communal farmers and high-value markets. With improved productivity, reduced transport costs, and better access to commercial abattoirs, the facility promises to shift the economic landscape for rural livestock producers.

“This isn’t just about infrastructure; it’s about building opportunity,” said EU Chargé d’Affaires Ian Dupont during the groundbreaking ceremony. “We want communal farmers to benefit from trade agreements like SACU and the African Continental Free Trade Area, and that starts with strong, inclusive systems.”

Minister of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Hon. Inge Zaamwani, described the feedlot as a pivotal step toward national development goals — bolstering food security, eradicating poverty, and supporting climate-resilient farming practices.

Funded under a wider N$400 million EU-supported livestock initiative, the Etunda Feedlot is one of several projects currently unfolding across the country. Infrastructure upgrades are underway for abattoirs, artificial insemination centres, auction facilities, and quarantine stations — all aimed at boosting Namibia’s livestock value chain from the ground up.

Newly deployed vehicles and logistics equipment have also been handed over to support field operations, ensuring outreach and support services extend deep into remote farming regions.

Beyond infrastructure, the programme is investing in skills development, fodder production, and livestock traceability to help farmers meet strict animal health regulations, particularly in areas vulnerable to Foot and Mouth Disease and Lumpy Skin Disease. The veterinary cordon fence remains a key line of defense.

The groundbreaking event drew an impressive mix of stakeholders — from traditional leaders and farming unions to EU representatives and local officials — all unified by a vision of a stronger, more inclusive livestock economy built for long-term resilience and growth.