15 Apr 2024

Promoting value addition in the agricultural sector is key to increasing production and enhancing the quality of produce, Minister of Entrepreneurship, Mr Karabo Gare has said. 

Speaking at the Letlhabile Southern Young Farmers Expo with the theme Promoting Youth Inclusion in the Value Chain held in Jwaneng on April 13, Mr Gare emphasised the importance of government programmes aimed at encouraging farmers to realise the value of their products.

Mr Gare highlighted that the value addition would be advantageous for farmers by helping them recognise the true value of their livestock, motivating them to take better care of their animals. 

Additionally, he announced that over P100 million would be allocated to bolster the horticultural sector, with the aim of increasing production due to certain vegetable import restrictions. 

These restrictions, he said were intended to stimulate growth in the local vegetable market in terms of quantity and quality.

Minister Gare said initiatives were designed to empower local farmers, boost production, and promote value addition within the market. 

He urged Batswana to embrace innovation and modern technologies to enhance the agricultural sector, ensuring consistent production even in periods of drought.

 Moreover, he encouraged them to explore opportunities within the value chain to drive economic diversification and enhance food security.

Ms Basadi Molelekeng, a commercial farmer from Pandamatenga, commended young farmers for their resilience and dedication in the face of challenges within the agricultural industry.

 She emphasised that farming, though demanding, especially during a drought, was ideal for young people due to its labour-intensive nature. 

She urged local farmers to strive to reduce Africa’s food import bill, stressing the importance of harnessing agricultural value chains.

Africa’s annual food import bill is estimated at USD 35 billion and is anticipated to increase if we do not take action. Let us explore the value chains wh

ich can give us a share of this import bill,” she said

She also underscored the importance of collaboration among farmers was also highlighting the necessity of cooperative efforts and support structures. 

The senior finance manager at Jwaneng Mine, Ms Carol Ralebala, highlighted the need for a shift in mindset towards seizing opportunities and innovations to revolutionise the agricultural sector. 

She stressed the importance of investing in technologies to enhance agricultural output for economic diversification beyond the diamond era. 

Through initiatives like Diamond to Mutton under the Citizen Economic Empowerment Programme (CEEP), Debswana aims to empower local farmers and facilitate economic diversification through the production of high-quality small stock. Ends