Gobabis, Namibia - Indigenous charcoal producers in Namibia have called on the government to assist them in entering the international charcoal market. This request was made during the Namibian indigenous charcoal communities and producers association needs identification workshop held in Gobabis on Monday.

According to Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA), a charcoal producer from the Omaheke Region, there is a significant need for support in terms of equipment and financing for both commercial and resettled farmers venturing into charcoal production. Tjozongoro highlighted the challenges faced by producers in accessing markets and acquiring essential equipment like trucks and tractors, which are critical for establishing successful charcoal businesses.

The workshop, organized by the Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade and its partners, was acknowledged by Tjozongoro as an important platform for discussing these challenges. He expressed hope for assistance in training and equipment, even if not in financial terms.

Shumon Khalid, a business support and value chain expert from the Ministry, pointed out the workshop's focus on the value chain in Namibia and support for charcoal exports. Khalid noted that the government recognizes charcoal as a potentially strong value chain, citing industry growth and global market expansion. He emphasized the importance of raising awareness among producers about accessing emerging global markets.

The two-day workshop aimed to address barriers to entry and offer insights on supporting charcoal production with marketing, financing, and promotion strategies.