In a move that signals Namibia’s agricultural ambitions, the government has unveiled a $250 million citrus development plan aimed at transforming the country into a regional citrus powerhouse. The initiative, announced on September 20th, is part of a broader import substitution strategy following South Africa’s recent export restrictions.
The investment will fund irrigation infrastructure, cold chain logistics, and farmer training programs across the Kavango and Zambezi regions. Officials say the goal is to increase citrus acreage by 300% over five years, with a focus on lemons and mandarins—two varieties currently in high demand across the Middle East and Asia.
Namibia’s Minister of Agriculture, Calle Schlettwein, emphasized that the program will prioritize smallholder inclusion and climate-resilient practices. “We’re not just growing fruit—we’re growing futures,” he said during the launch event in Windhoek.
The citrus push is expected to generate over 10,000 jobs and position Namibia as a net exporter by 2030. Analysts note that the country’s low pest pressure and proximity to key ports give it a competitive edge over traditional suppliers.