Africa-Press – Botswana. Former United Nations World Food Programme (UNWFP) consultant Mr Antonius Karuuro has emphasised the importance of diversification in farming for achieving higher production yields.
Speaking at the Jay Agri-business seminar held at Thukuru Farm near Lentsweletau recently, Mr Karuuro highlighted the need for farmers to adapt to climate changes and adopt new methodologies.
Addressing farmers, Mr Karuuro applauded Mr Jonathan Kebopotswe, a youth organiser of the seminar, for creating a platform that encourages brainstorming and broadens horizons, particularly for young farmers, who were the main target of the event.
A Namibian based in Botswana, Mr Karuuro explained that the agricultural sector faced challenges that required farmers to abandon traditional methods.
“If possible, we need to reconsider shifting planting and harvesting months,” he advised, noting that weather patterns are changing globally.
For example, he said September weather now resembled August, ‘it is up to us to adapt to the realities of global warming.’
He stressed that food security at the national level could not be achieved if farmers struggled with household food security.
Specialising in hydroponics, Mr Karuuro urged farmers to focus on local produce rather than relying on imported agricultural products.
He cautioned against limited crop or livestock specialisation, noting that such practices restricted market opportunities and hinder product diversification.
Instead, he emphasised understanding seasonal variations, farming inputs, and animal breeds to diversify effectively.
Using Botswana as an example, Mr Karuuro pointed out that despite being landlocked, the country had harnessed its geographical advantages.
“Botswana can leverage its port in Walvis Bay, Namibia, to engage in fisheries from the Atlantic Ocean,” he said, encouraging farmers to explore alternative farming methods like fisheries.
Furthermore, he noted that diversification encompass integrated farming practices.
“You can have chickens and fish in a farming system. Chicken manure can feed the fish, and the manure from fish or crops can fertilize the soil,” explained Mr Karuuro.
He also highlighted the importance of scale and consistency. Smallholder farmers often struggle to join value chains due to limited production quantities.
“Growing only a quarter hectare of tomatoes limits your supply to a week for supermarkets like Choppies. To meet demand consistently, farmers need to collaborate and specialise,” he suggested.
Mr Karuuro underscored that it was no longer productive to blame the government for market challenges.
“The government is there to formulate policies; it is up to farmers to leverage opportunities and participate actively,” he said.
He advised farmers to maximize government support when import restrictions are imposed on foreign farming products, recognizing agriculture as a resilient and profitable market that can generate income and reduce unemployment.
Source: dailynews
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