This study focused on how the Namibian fresh produce supply chain can be
transitioned from imported to domestic oriented procurement. The problem of the study
was to identify the missing link in the supply chain of fresh produce in Namibia. The
primary research objective of the study was to assess the Namibian fresh supply chain
transition from imported to domestic oriented procurement. The study utilized qualitative
approach research design and used qualitative methods of data analysis. The study used
the logic model approach of case study analysis in analysing the collected data. The
major findings that emerged from this research showed thematic areas that indicate that
there is much that needs to be done in order to have the Namibian fresh produce supply
chain to be transitioned from imported to domestic oriented procurement.
The thematic themes that emerged in this research revolve around involvement of
the government of Namibia in the supply chain of fresh produce in both domestic and
international markets. The overall opinion of the respondents who participated in this
research indicated that fresh farm produce retailers should promote contract farming as
well as locally produced farm products as compared to imported fresh farm produce. It
also emerged that imported fresh farm produce are of low quality due to transportation
problems. The respondents believed that if subsidies are provided, and the private sector
is incubated into mainstream fresh farm production, this will enhance and shape the fresh
farm produce supply chain.