FIRST MEETING OF THE JOINT WORKING GROUP ON AGRICULTURAL MATTERS BETWEEN NAMIBIA AND ARGENTINA
Between 15th and 29th of November 2012, in Buenos Aires, the first meeting of the joint working group on agriculture between Namibia and Argentina was held, whose constitution was provided for in Article 5 of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources and Forestry of the Republic of Namibia and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries of the Republic of Argentina on September 27, 2012, for the formulation of an action program for cooperation, according to the priority interests of parties.
In said context the above program was signed on November 19, agreeing to work together towards.
1. Cooperation in the areas of increase of performances in Agricultural Production in Namibia (Tillage System). Objective: To transfer the knowledge to implement this technology.
2. Cooperation in the area of plant health: Implementation of the norm of International Standard of Phytosanitary Measures No. 15. Phytosanitary programs, cooperation and exchange of information and experiences in official pest control programs. Systems of Targeted Security. Forest pest control.
3. Cooperation on Animal Health: Strategies for the control and eradication of diseases (vaccination, surveillance, training on movement control of animals and products). Epidemiological studies for annual revalidation of the health status. System of registration of producers, animals, health activities (serological samples, vaccinations). Movement of cattle, design of Control Strategies for internal barriers (between two different areas of health status). Cooperation between neighbouring countries to work between borders. Diagnostic techniques for surveillance and vaccination coverage. Control of vaccines.
4. Cooperation in joint research projects: Added value in fruits and vegetables
5. Cooperation in the construction of institutional capacities: Support for the study and the analysis of the organizational structure of NARI (equivalent institute for INTA). Training in laboratory accreditation. Cooperation on environmental risk assessment and food safety of genetically modified organisms.
On 19th of November, twelve heads of extension of the Provinces of Namibia, who were invited by CAFMA (Chamber of Manufacturers of Agricultural Machinery) to visit agricultural machinery companies in the South of the provinces of Santa Fe and Cordoba joined the working group members. They also received an explanation by the INTA on tillage, water management and conservation techniques.
On 27th of November the delegation toured the facilities of Biogenesis Bagó, interested in developing an associative relationship that allows them access to vaccines to promote the health aspects of that country.
The activities involved in the work plan will begin to develop from March 2013 and Argentina will be able to position itself with its technology and expertise in Namibia thus completing in this way its integration into the countries of the regional group in Southern Africa.
