Livestock sector generates N$2.1 billion in foreign exchange – minister Zaamwani

Namibia remains the only African country with concurrent access to export beef to the United States, China, Norway, and the European Union, generating over N$2.1 billion in foreign exchange in 2025. This was said by the minister of agriculture, fisheries, water and Land reform Inge Zaamwani during her budget speech in parliament on Friday. She said this reinforces the sector’s role as a key economic pillar supporting exports. She noted that in the 2025/26 financial year, the livestock sector contributed about 3.5% to the country’s gross domestic product and currently supports over 45 000 direct jobs in primary production and 12 000 high-value technical roles in export and processing facilities. “The livestock value chain stands as Namibia’s largest agricultural employer, sustaining the livelihoods of approximately 70% of our people,” she said. The minister further informed the august House that the government has invested in safeguarding both animal health and export market ...