Africa-Press – Botswana. The Ministry of Lands and Agriculture, working with key stakeholders, will host the first National Agricultural Pitso on 02 October 2025. The event will take place under the theme “Revitalizing Agriculture for Resilience: Policy Reform, Programme Review and Private Sector Synergy.”
The Pitso will provide a national platform for dialogue, bringing together policymakers, farmers, agribusinesses, researchers, and development partners. Its main objective is to assess the current state of Botswana’s agricultural sector, review existing policies and programmes, and design a roadmap for the future.
Speaking ahead of the event, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands and Agriculture said the Pitso will be a turning point in shaping the sector’s contribution to food security, employment, and economic diversification. He noted that the gathering is not only about discussing challenges but also about setting practical solutions and partnerships that can be implemented.
Botswana’s long-term agricultural vision ties the Pitso to broader national development goals. Agriculture remains a critical sector in achieving food self-sufficiency, reducing import dependency, and supporting rural livelihoods. The ministry believes that through policy reforms, stronger programmes, and private sector engagement, agriculture can play a bigger role in national transformation.
The Pitso will review current support schemes for farmers, extension services, land management, irrigation projects, and access to finance. Special attention will be placed on aligning policies with modern agricultural practices, climate resilience, and digital technologies. Stakeholders are expected to present recommendations that can help reposition agriculture as a competitive and sustainable sector.
Private sector participation will be central to the discussions. The government is seeking partnerships that will enhance investment in value chains, agro-processing, and market access. According to ministry officials, building synergy with the private sector will be key in unlocking new opportunities for commercial farming and smallholder empowerment.
The National Agricultural Pitso will also serve as a forum to evaluate Botswana’s readiness to adopt innovative solutions such as smart irrigation, renewable energy in farming, and mechanization. With climate change posing increasing risks, resilience strategies will be a major focus area.
Authorities expect that the outcomes of the Pitso will feed directly into long-term national development strategies. This will ensure that agriculture is not seen as a stand-alone sector, but as a driver of economic growth, job creation, and social stability.
By hosting the first National Agricultural Pitso, the Ministry of Lands and Agriculture signals a new phase of collaboration, reform, and forward-looking planning. The government and its partners aim to set a strong foundation for a resilient agricultural sector that supports Botswana’s development vision well beyond 2025.
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