The Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) and its project partner Agra, will present two practical farming training courses tailored to the specific needs of farm workers from 5-9 March and 16-20 April 2007. Due to popular demand following the first two courses presented to 42 farm workers last year, CCF and Agra have decided to again make this course available. Ambassador Iipumbu, a board member of CCF, complimented Agra on this worthwhile investment in Namibia’s agricultural sector, while members of his farming team will attend the course as well.  In a survey conducted in the north central commercial farmland it was found that only about 30% of farms are occupied by full-time farmers. This situation stresses the importance of well trained personnel attending to the day to day management of the farming enterprise and being equipped to handle crisis situations. Thus it remains imperative that the capacity of the front-line staff is continuously enhanced. One participant stated last year that it was the most enlightening course he had ever attended, while for the majority of participants it was the first time they had ever had the opportunity to attend and fully participate in a formal training programme. Farmers, who sent their workers to the course, reported that they were impressed by the practical knowledge gained.
During 2006, CCF presented 12 training courses for 300 farmers and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector. This year 20 training courses are planned, targeting 500 farmers and land users in the livestock farming sector of Namibia.
Application forms for the practical training course and other courses can be obtained on request from the Cheetah Conservation Fund at Tel:  067 306225; Fax: 067 306247 or email: cheeta@iafrica.com.na

Photo  Dr Laurie Marker, Director: Cheetah Conservation Fund,     Ambassador Leonard N Iipumbu, Board Member: Cheetah Conservation Fund and Ms Birgit Hoffmann, Senior Manager: Marketing: Agra Co-operative