Africa-Press – Botswana. The use of government initiatives such as improving genetics of small stock and Botswana Animal Identification and Traceability System (BAITS) for market access can help farmers turn Botswana into the region’s next food basket.
The agricultural sector has the potential to create jobs thus contributing significantly to both skills development and poverty eradication.
This was said by the Assistant Minister of Agriculture, Mr Molebatsi Molebatsi, during Pitseng Farmers Day hosted by Steve’N Lesedi Farmvillies in Pitseng on Saturday.
Mr Molebatsi said the theme of the day: “Integrated small stock farming through value chains, a sustainable economic imperative” was the most appropriate as it captures the importance of small stock farming, promoting it as a viable sustainable industry.
He said his ministry prioritised the enhancement of food security and championing of agricultural development through local production, reduction of import bill and diversification of Agricultural sector among others.
The recently launched mind-set change campaign spoke to all different sectors of the economy, inspire and motivate all to enhance commitments and encouraged people to venture into new and different things with a full believe that they are able and would make it.Mr Molebatsi applauded the organisers of the day for an incredible initiative that aimed primarily at showcasing the value of small stock farming and empowering the people of Pitseng and it’s vicinities.
The area MP, Mr Karabo Gare, emphasised that such gatherings have the greatest socio-economic impact, especially on the community.He said small stock farming can be commercialised. Each individual had a role to play in this regard.
The passion displayed by the organisers towards creating synergies and identifying opportunities would ensure that the end-to-end small stock farming process was delivered fully and by the locals, he said.
The event organiser, Mr Steven Baatshwana, said the Pitseng Farmers’ Day was an initiative of the Steve’N Lesedi Farmvilles in collaboration with Capri and Ovine Association, a consortium of more than 30 small stock farmers from the Jwaneng, Pitseng and Mabutsane communities.
Mr Baatshwana said the objective of the event was to showcase the diverse offerings of members of the association while demonstrating the value chains of small stock farming for economic diversification, in line with the national agenda of enhancing farming.
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