Africa-Press – Botswana. Following a five-year absence associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kgalagadi North District Show made a comeback, rekindling the district’s spirit of innovation, enterprise and cultural celebration.
Held under the theme: A Step to Improve a Microscale Farmer into a Commercial Farmer in Kgalagadi North, the show introduced exciting new concepts and diverse activities aimed at boosting community participation and economic growth. The diversity was a move to broaden the event’s appeal and promote alternative income-generating opportunities. The show committee chairperson, Mr Koolopile Pema said the primary objective of reviving the show was to reignite community engagement and stimulate local economic activity, particularly amid ongoing economic challenges.
“This year’s event is just a curtain-raiser. We promise Batswana that next year’s show will be bigger, better, and more impactful,” he said.
He also appreciated the number of small businesses participation.
“What I appreciate the most is how small businesses have benefited. This is their platform, and we urge them to be well prepare even be more competitive next year,” he said.
Mr Pema noted that beyond trade and entertainment, the show was also designed to educate and inspire those interested in venturing into farming or any other type of business.
“This show was not just about selling. it is also about learning and refreshing the mind,” he said.
Looking ahead, he revealed that the organising committee planned to engage professionals to support and elevate the quality and scope of future editions. With strong community turnout, innovative features and renewed momentum, he said the show was poised to reclaim its place as a flagship event in the regional calendar.
For his part, Kang Farmers’s Association chairperson, Mr Moagi Bareeleng said the revival of the show marked a critical turning point for farmers in the district. Mr Bareeleng said the return of the event was not only symbolic but also a strategic opportunity to breathe new life into the agricultural sector, especially at a time when President Advocate Duma Boko was calling for increased livestock production.
“We are fortunate that the show is returning at a time when President Boko has expressed concern over the declining number of cattle in the country. The President has stated the goal of increasing the national herd from two million to five million, and this show aligns perfectly with that national vision,” he said.
Mr Bareeleng said the resuscitation of the show was in line with the aspirations of farmers in the district, who were working tirelessly to uplift small-scale farmers and help them transition into commercial operations.He observed that the majority of exhibitors showcased small stock, a trend he attributed to the practicality of preparing goats and sheep for display, compared to the logistical challenges of exhibiting cattle.
“Preparing cattle for a show can be quite difficult, especially with limited resources. That is why you see more small stock this year. We are committed to working hard so that next year, we can successfully exhibit cattle as well,” he said.
He expressed confidence that with renewed focus, better planning and continued support, the district’s farmers will rise to the challenge of revitalising the livestock industry both in numbers and in quality.
Source: DAILYNEWS
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