30/05/2026
PM Pushes for Peanut Butter Factory in Otjinene
Kaleb Nghishidivali
Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has called for the establishment of a peanut butter manufacturing factory in Otjinene as part of government’s drive to promote value addition, rural industrialisation and job creation in agricultural communities.
Speaking during an engagement with farmers at Farm Toekat in the Omaheke Region on 27 May 2026, Dr Ngurare said Namibia must begin processing more of its locally produced agricultural products in order to strengthen the economy and create employment opportunities, particularly for young people.
The Prime Minister said the proposed peanut butter factory could unlock the agricultural potential of the region while empowering local farmers and communities through agro-processing.
“We have the land, the farmers and the determination. What is needed now is to add value to what we already produce so that our people can benefit economically and more employment opportunities can be created, especially for the youth,” said Dr Ngurare.
According to the Prime Minister, the initiative forms part of a broader national development strategy championed by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah to ensure every region develops industries linked to its comparative economic advantages.
Dr Ngurare revealed that last year he received a directive from President Nandi-Ndaitwah to ensure that each region establishes a factory or processing facility based on its strongest economic sector.
He said the Omaheke Region possesses enormous agricultural potential and could become one of Namibia’s leading food-producing areas if farmers and communities work together to increase local production and processing.
The Prime Minister further emphasized the importance of unity, accountability and active public participation in development initiatives. He encouraged residents to engage government leaders openly and hold public officials accountable whenever commitments are not fulfilled.
“Government alone cannot achieve development without the involvement of communities. Citizens must feel free to engage leaders and demand progress where promises have been made,” he added.
Meanwhile, Farm Toekat owner Steenkamp welcomed the discussions and commitments made during the engagement, describing the meeting as a “dream come true” for many local farmers.
Steenkamp said the engagement had renewed hope among farmers in the region and stressed the importance of cooperation across the agricultural sector.
“We must support one another and move forward together. Agriculture can only thrive when farmers unite and share knowledge, opportunities and resources,” he said.
He further called on commercial, communal and resettled farmers to work together as equal partners in strengthening food production and ensuring food security in Namibia.
