Namibia Invests Millions to Boost Citrus Industry
Available in
By Brandon Moss
Namibia is making a bold bet on citrus. With rising demand for oranges, lemons, and grapefruit across southern Africa and the Middle East, the government has committed N$250 million over five years to expand citrus production.
The investment will fund new orchards in the Kavango East and Zambezi regions, install drip irrigation systems, and train farmers in pest management and post-harvest handling. The Ministry of Agriculture says the goal is to reduce fruit imports, which cost Namibia over N$100 million annually, and create 5,000 new jobs in rural areas.
Namibia’s climate—hot days, cool nights, and low humidity—is ideal for citrus cultivation. Export markets in South Africa, Angola, and the UAE are already showing interest. The government is also working with logistics firms to improve cold storage and transport infrastructure, ensuring fruit reaches markets fresh and on time.
If successful, Namibia could become a citrus export hub, diversify its agricultural economy and boosting rural development.
