Namibia has declared a state of emergency as the southern African country is hard hit by an acute drought.

Namibia's President Hage Geingob said the declaration followed consultations with cabinet and the wider government system, under Article 26 of the Namibian Constitution.

"The rain season is almost over and we did not receive good rainfall. This means that we are facing the natural disaster of drought and many will be affected by the situation," Geingob said on Monday.

Geingob said offices, ministries and agencies and all other stakeholders will be mobilized to ensure that the necessary assistance is rolled out to affected communities.

"During this period, the government shall endeavor at all times to protect Namibians and their livestock from drought," he added.

Namibia has endured recurrent drought conditions since 2013, affecting most parts of the country. 

Xinhua