About FAO in Namibia
Since Namibia joined the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in 1991, the Organization has maintained a strong partnership with the country, adapting to its evolving challenges and opportunities.
In the early years, FAO’s support focused on strengthening food security, improving agricultural production, and building institutional capacity to enhance Namibia’s agrifood systems. Over time, this collaboration has expanded to address emerging priorities, including climate resilience, sustainable natural resource management, and innovative approaches to agricultural development.
Aligned with FAO’s strategic objective of transforming agrifood systems for sustainable development, FAO Namibia works closely with the government to provide technical assistance and capacity development. This partnership supports resilient and inclusive agricultural systems that enhance food security, nutrition, rural livelihoods, and economic growth.
FAO’s interventions are guided by Namibia’s national priorities, addressing key challenges such as food insecurity, climate change, and sustainable resource management.
Through ongoing cooperation, FAO and Namibia continue to strengthen local capacities, promote evidence-based policymaking, and implement innovative solutions that empower communities—ensuring long-term resilience and sustainable development for future generations.
FAO Representative
Mr. Patrice Talla is the FAO Representative in Namibia (ad Interim), appointed in May 2025.
Mr. Talla is a national of Cameroon. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy in International Environmental Law and Public Law from the University of Limoges (France), a Master's Degree and Diploma of Advanced Studies (DEA) in Public International Law from the University of Reims (France), and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Yaoundé (Cameroon).
He joined FAO headquarters in 2001 as a Legal Officer, before becoming FAO Representative in Madagascar, Comoros, Mauritius, and Seychelles. He previously served as Legal Counsel at the World Bank, advising on forestry, fisheries, and natural resources law and policy.
Since 18 August 2020, he has served as FAO Subregional Coordinator for Southern Africa and FAO Representative in Zimbabwe — a portfolio that also covers Eswatini and Lesotho. His role as FAO Representative ad Interim for Namibia is held concurrently with those responsibilities