Namibia's agriculture officials trained in soil sampling
Two-day hands-on training equips MAFWLR staff with essential skills to improve soil health and boost sustainable agriculture.
Namibian agriculture officials pose with their Chinese counterparts during a two-day soil sampling training held under the China–FAO–Namibia South-South Cooperation Project in Windhoek
Windhoek, Namibia – A two-day training initiative hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform (MAFWLR) as part of the second phase of the “South - South Cooperation project between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of Namibia on Agriculture and Fishery Production” has strengthened local capacity in soil sampling, an essential component of sustainable agriculture and effective land management.
Held from 12–13 March 2025 in Windhoek, the training titled “Empowering Staff with Soil Sampling Skills for Namibian Soil Lab” forms part of the second phase of the China–FAO–Namibia South-South Cooperation (SSC) Project, a trilateral partnership aimed at boosting Namibia’s agricultural productivity through technical knowledge exchange.
Led by Mr. Zongyao Yu, a Chinese soil laboratory expert under SSC Phase II, and Ms. Ella Shiningayamwe, Senior Agricultural Scientific Officer at MAWLR, the workshop combined theory, practical demonstrations, and lively exchanges between experts and participants. Topics included correct sampling times, choosing ideal sampling sites, selecting appropriate depths, and ensuring accurate labeling, all essential for generating reliable laboratory results and making data-informed farming decisions.
“As an agricultural technician, I’ve learned that 60-80% of errors in soil analysis come from sampling itself,” noted Yu. “Accurate, standardized sampling is the cornerstone of precision agriculture and sustainable farming practices.”
On the first day, participants explored Chinese protocols and best practices through multimedia presentations and group discussions. The second day featured hands-on demonstrations at the Yuanjue School, where trainees practiced grid, random, and "Z"-shaped sampling methods. Sampling techniques were also adapted to different field contexts, including greenhouses, fruit orchards, and seedling beds.
Modern tools for modern challenges
In addition to sampling skills, trainees were introduced to cutting-edge Chinese agricultural technologies. Mr. Jiango Zhao and Mrs. Jinlian Lu, experts from Yuanjue School and Angola respectively, demonstrated:
- High-yield vegetable production systems
- Drip irrigation using recycled plastic film
- Greenhouse shading and sticking techniques
- Organic manure fermentation and use
- Propagation methods for sweet potato, peppers, and eggplants
This integrated training approach gave participants a broader view of soil health as a gateway to resilient food systems.
“The training was practical and eye-opening. I especially appreciated the sessions on greenhouse technologies and composting,” said Werner Gawanab from MAFWLR’s Analytical Services and Product Development division.
Mr. Zongyao Yu, Chinese soil expert under the South-South Cooperation Project, demonstrates field sampling techniques during a practical training session with Namibian agriculture officials.
Participation and impact
The training brought together 12 technical staff from the Directorate of Agricultural Research and Development (DARD). Participants expressed strong interest in further trainings and highlighted the benefits of field-based learning.
“This experience has built both our skills and our teamwork. I’m leaving with valuable knowledge that I can apply in my daily work,” said Alberthad Elizabeth Sipapo, an officer with MAFWLR.
The sessions also addressed frequently asked questions, such as the ideal number of soil samples per hectare, tools required for soil profiling, and standard sampling depths for different crops and conditions.
Namibian agriculture officials and their Chinese counterparts pictured inside a greenhouse during a practical demonstration on modern cultivation techniques under the China–FAO–Namibia South-South Cooperation Project.
Next steps for Namibia’s soil Future
The training concluded with a shared commitment to continue daily communication with participants, support implementation of learned techniques, and maintain the momentum built through the SSC project.
With the growing urgency for soil fertility management, this capacity-building effort marks a timely and impactful step in ensuring Namibian agriculture is both productive and sustainable.
“Training based on field practice is visible, tangible, and transformative,” said Yu. “It’s a model we hope to expand further.”