farmer |
A busload of
University of Namibia (Unam) agricultural students and farmers, arriving
from far and near, were testament to the instant success of the event,
which is to become an annual showcase for both old and trusted farming
patents as well as modern technology.
The example set by
Dordabis FA has ensured that all eight other members of the central RAU
areas will follow suit and stage these highly informative and
educational open days.
Chairperson of
Dordabis FA, René Krafft, of the farm Ibenstein says the idea originated
from the Namibia Agricultural Union (NAU).
"Organised
agriculture as the backbone of the agricultural sector is facing various
problems after all the years of drought, the vast costs of rebuilding
herds and the current financial crunch, as well as government
withdrawing its subsidies to the NAU. This means we must encourage
farmers to find new means of raising finances to fund expenses while
sharing information and create a win-win situation for everyone. Judging
by the very first open day we are on the right track," he observes.
Krafft adds that it
is important that RAU finds ways to invite new members into the
organisation that provides farmers with a steady platform.
"We all worked
together to put this wonderful day together but Dawid Krause and Robert
Neumann of Feedmaster deserve special mention for making a dream come
true," he notes.Guest speakers were the president of AgriSA, Johannes
Möller, and the president of NAU, Ryno van der Merwe. Various
demonstrations and information sessions were held.
The open days also
provide farmers with increased networking and learning opportunities.
"The bigger picture is that we do things that are good for the local
economy. More money is spent in the local economy, and it circulates in
the locality for longer and provides an outlet for local produce,
helping to start new local businesses and expand existing ones.
Consumers also benefit as they enjoy the atmosphere and experience of
farmers' open days," Krafft says.
Most important is that these open days strengthen communities - a key factor in the quality of life in Namibian farming.
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