Women Entrepreneurs in Ohangwena Empowered Through Agribusiness Strategies

Women Entrepreneurs in Ohangwena Empowered Through Agribusiness Strategies. Day two of the Women in Business Association (WBA) seminars in Ohangwena placed agribusiness at the centre of discussions, with a strategic overview delivered by Ms. Justah Nalushiya, Chief Agricultural Technician at the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform (MAWLR).

The session was designed to sensitize women micro-entrepreneurs on opportunities within agro-processing, highlighting potential growth areas in poultry, horticulture, and crop production. Nalushiya emphasized that agribusiness offers women a pathway to sustainable livelihoods, while also contributing to food security and local economic development.

The Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare (MGECW) reinforced the importance of value addition as a critical step for women aiming to access formal and continental markets. Officials stressed that precise pricing modalities and standard branding are essential for positioning products competitively. By adopting these practices, women entrepreneurs can strengthen their market presence and ensure their produce meets regional and international standards.

The seminar underscored the role of agribusiness in empowering women to move beyond subsistence farming into commercial ventures. Participants were encouraged to explore innovative approaches to processing and packaging, which can enhance product quality and open new market opportunities.

The WBA seminars continue to serve as a platform for knowledge exchange, equipping women with practical tools to grow their businesses. By focusing on agribusiness strategies, the programme aligns with national priorities of economic diversification and inclusive growth.

Day two’s discussions highlighted that when women entrepreneurs are supported with technical expertise and market-oriented strategies, they can become key drivers of transformation in their communities and beyond.