13 May, 2025
BUAN Showcases Innovation and Expertise at Mosisedi Harvest Day 2025
The Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) proudly participated in the 2025 Mosisedi Harvest Day, reaffirming its dedication to agricultural innovation, education, and community engagement. The event provided a dynamic platform for BUAN to connect with the farming community, industry stakeholders, and the public. Our exhibition featured impressive student-led research and crop displays from the Crop Science Club, alongside the sale of fresh farm produce by INCUHIVE incubatees—demonstrating the practical impact of agripreneurship and applied learning. A highlight of the event was BUAN’s contribution to a panel discussion on “Farming in a Changing Climate,” where Professor Justin Chepete, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, shared expert perspectives on climate-smart agricultural strategies. The dialogue emphasized the importance of sustainable, climate-resilient farming practices in the face of global environmental changes. We extend sincere gratitude to the event organizers, stakeholders, and all visitors who engaged with our exhibitions and discussions. BUAN remains steadfast in its mission to lead in agricultural education, research, and innovation—driving positive impact in Botswana and beyond. #BUAN #MosisediHarvestDay2025 #ClimateSmartAgriculture #InnovationInAgriculture
05 May, 2025
RUFORUM Secretariat Visits Botswana Ahead of December 2025 Conference
The Secretariat of the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) concluded a week-long visit to Botswana from 28th April to 3rd May 2025, as part of preparatory efforts for the upcoming RUFORUM Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled to take place in Gaborone from 1st to 5th December 2025. This high-level visit aimed to engage key national stakeholders and outline expectations for Botswana as the host country of one of Africa’s premier higher education and agricultural research events. RUFORUM, established in 2004 by ten Vice Chancellors, is a consortium of African universities committed to enhancing the quality and relevance of higher education and research in agriculture and related fields. As of December 2022, the network had grown to include 170 member universities in 40 countries across the continent. The organisation is registered as an international NGO in Uganda, with its Secretariat based at Makerere University in Kampala. Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN), a long-standing member of the RUFORUM network, successfully spearheaded the country’s bid to host the 2025 AGM. The event will bring together university leaders, researchers, policymakers, development partners, and students from across Africa to share innovations, best practices, and strategies to transform agriculture and rural livelihoods. During the visit, the RUFORUM Secretariat held consultative meetings with government officials, academic leaders, and representatives of development agencies. These engagements served to communicate the goals of the upcoming conference, define coordination frameworks, and reinforce Botswana’s critical role as a host nation. The RUFORUM AGM is not just an academic event; it is a platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and forging partnerships that advance Africa’s agricultural agenda, thus all stakeholders need to be at par inorder to host a memorable event. The Secretariat also emphasized the importance of national-level coordination, logistical planning, and stakeholder engagement to ensure a successful and impactful event in December. Botswana’s selection to host RUFORUM 2025 is a testament to its growing reputation as a leader in agricultural education and innovation. The country now stands poised to welcome delegates from across the continent for what promises to be a landmark gathering. As preparations continue, the RUFORUM Secretariat and the Government of Botswana will work hand in hand to deliver a conference that reflects Africa’s shared aspirations for a resilient, food-secure, and knowledge-driven future
29 April, 2025
WOMEN IN SCIENCE: POSTGRADUATE FEMALE RESEARCH FEES SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
Today, 29th April 2025, the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN), in collaboration with the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Botswana Academy of Science (BAS), and funded by UNESCO, proudly hosted the Postgraduate Female Research Fees Scholarship Awards in Gaborone. The event is part of the transformative project: "Increasing Scientific Expertise and the Prominence of Females in STEM Academia and Research for a Knowledge-Based Economy." In his opening remarks, BUAN Vice Chancellor Professor Ketlhatlhogile Mosepele emphasized the power of empowering women in science, echoing Kofi Annan’s words: “There is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women.” He highlighted the gender disparities in STEM and reaffirmed BUAN’s commitment to changing the narrative: “To empower a woman is to empower a nation.” A special tribute was paid to Dr Motlalepula Tait, the project’s Principal Investigator and Chairperson. “Doc, academics like you give meaning and value to institutions of higher learning,” said Prof Mosepele. “Empowered women empower the world.” Ms Gloria Baitshepi from the Botswana National Commission for UNESCO shared valuable insights on funding opportunities, emphasizing the organization’s support for projects that prioritize education, gender equality, and natural sciences—especially in STEM, where women’s representation remains at just 30%. Dr Tait presented an overview of the project, underlining the importance of acknowledging and addressing the unique challenges women face in academia. “We believe in diversity and inclusivity,” she said, “but also in equipping women with the tools to succeed.” Three BUAN students were awarded research funding as follows: Ompelege Matenanga (PhD) – “The development of functional yoghurt using indigenous plants in Botswana” – P100,000 Kelebonye Ramolekwa (PhD) – “Dissecting gamma-irradiated induced polygenic mutation associated with yield and nutritional value in cowpea” – P100,000 Galalea Gaonosi – “Screening and introgression of Aphis craccivora resistance into cowpea” – P70,000 To boost academic publishing, three more students were awarded P10,000 each for publishing support: Linda Mpofu-Dobo (BUIST) Kelemogile Mmolawa (UB) Rejoice Molosiwa (UB) Additionally, a capacity-building workshop on academic publishing will be held for other students, ensuring wider impact. As we celebrate these remarkable milestones, we leave you with this powerful reminder from Prof Ishmael Basesane, President of BAS: “Believe in yourself. You are capable. Let’s continue creating opportunities for women to rise.” #WomenInSTEM #BUAN #OWSD #UNESCO #STEMforWomen #EmpoweredWomen #ResearchExcellence #BotswanaScience #ScholarshipAward #STEMLeadership
15 April, 2025
Hemp Innovation visits BUAN
Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) recently had the pleasure of hosting Mr. Clas Dahlen, CEO of Hemp Innovation, a Swedish company specializing in hemp-based products. Mr. Dahlen’s visit aimed to introduce his company and engage in meaningful discussions with BUAN on potential areas of collaboration. One key opportunity identified was conducting a feasibility study — assessing which hemp varieties are best suited to Botswana’s climate, where to cultivate them, and evaluating potential market demand. BUAN has a strong track record of pioneering new crops in Botswana, including rice and safflower. In that spirit, the team welcomed the opportunity to explore hemp as a sustainable and commercially viable crop for local farmers — backed by research and data. Present at the meeting were Vice Chancellor Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture Professor Justine Chepete, and Director of Business Development Mr. Kealeboga Pifelo. The team expressed great enthusiasm about the potential of hemp and its promise for economic development and environmental sustainability in Botswana. Hemp is an incredibly versatile plant — used for textiles, wellness products, and protein-rich food — and offers significant environmental benefits such as soil regeneration and carbon sequestration. Introducing it to Botswana in the right way, with the right research, could open exciting new doors for local agriculture and industry. At BUAN, we’re committed to innovation, sustainability, and bringing impactful agricultural solutions to Batswana. #SustainableAgriculture #Innovation #BUAN #HempInnovation #
07 April, 2025
Marking a Historic New Chapter for BUAN and FAO
Today, the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations marked a truly historic moment with the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI), solidifying their commitment to sustainable agriculture and natural resource management. This crucial collaboration arrives as the world confronts unprecedented challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, and economic downturns. The LOI embodies a shared vision to transform agro-food systems for the sustainable management and utilization of natural resources, ensuring a better future for present and generations to come. Prof. Ketlhatlogile Mosepele, BUAN’s Vice Chancellor, emphasized that this partnership will be instrumental in the university’s ambitious transformation into a leading hub for research, innovation, and sustainability. This strategic alignment promises to accelerate Botswana’s socio-economic growth by effectively leveraging its agricultural and natural resource potential. Ms. Carla Mucavi, FAO’s Representative in Botswana, underscored that partnerships are central to FAO’s global mission to eradicate hunger and malnutrition. She reinforced that FAO’s 2022-2031 Strategic Framework, with its focus on better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life for all, deeply resonates with BUAN’s own mission. The LOI establishes a strong foundation for future collaborations in vital areas such as urban greening initiatives in Gaborone, enhancing the National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme, and advancing fodder production strategies to bolster national food security. These represent just a glimpse of the impactful projects where BUAN and FAO will unite their expertise to drive meaningful change. This marks the beginning of a promising journey. Moving forward, our partnership will empower capacity building, foster technological innovations, and promote inclusive development within the agriculture and natural resources sectors. Together, we are planting the seeds for a resilient and sustainable future, not only for Botswana but also for the wider world.
27 March, 2025
Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele Addresses Ghanzi District Council on BUAN’s Vision for Sustainable Growth and Collaboration
In a compelling address at the recent Ghanzi District Council meeting, Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele, the Vice Chancellor of Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN), shared the institution’s vision and commitment to fostering a more prosperous and sustainable future for Botswana. His speech emphasized BUAN's strategic goals of agricultural innovation, youth empowerment, and community collaboration to address key challenges like food security and youth unemployment in Ghanzi District. “BUAN’s core mandate is teaching and research in agriculture and natural resources, with a vision to become an innovative and research-intensive institution. We aim to make Botswana food and nutrition secure and to empower Batswana through sustainable socio-economic growth,” Professor Mosepele stated, highlighting the importance of agriculture as a cornerstone of national development. The Vice Chancellor stressed BUAN's commitment to addressing issues such as high youth unemployment and underutilized productive land. He called for collective action in tackling these challenges, asserting that a collaborative effort between BUAN and the Ghanzi District Council could lead to tangible solutions for a brighter future.“We are here not only to talk about BUAN but to explore how, together, we can co-create a sustainable and prosperous future for the people of Ghanzi District,” said Mosepele, emphasizing that BUAN’s resources and expertise in agriculture could significantly benefit the district. He also mentioned the importance of aligning with Botswana's Vision 2036, which aims to create a thriving, inclusive economy. Professor Mosepele detailed BUAN's growth since its transformation in 2019, from the Botswana College of Agriculture into a dynamic university offering a wide range of programs in agriculture, natural resources, animal sciences, and agri-business. He also touched on BUAN's research efforts, including the establishment of two research centers focused on bioeconomy and sustainable resources, as well as various entrepreneurial initiatives that aim to drive local economic development. One key project discussed was BUAN’s ongoing Rangeland Improvement through Bush Control and Sustainable Intensification (RIBS) project, which seeks to rehabilitate bush-encroached rangelands, vital for the district's beef production. BUAN is also looking to develop a satellite campus in Ghanzi to deliver vocational training programs focused on livestock production, game ranching, and agro-tourism. Addressing the challenges of youth employment, Professor Mosepele spoke about BUAN’s initiatives such as the INCU-HIVE, an entrepreneurship program that has successfully transformed graduates into entrepreneurs. Additionally, he shared plans for the SECHABA program, which aims to support out-of-school youth in developing start-ups in the agriculture and natural resources sectors. In an exciting development, BUAN is working towards the establishment of a School of Veterinary Medicine, a partnership with international institutions, which could provide significant benefits to the beef farming community in Ghanzi.“We have the highest concentration of livestock experts in Botswana, and with partnerships like the one we have with Texas A&M University, we are positioned to make a significant impact on the local livestock sector,” Mosepele noted. Professor Mosepele also mentioned BUAN’s introduction of climate-resilient crops like safflower, which has shown great potential in other parts of Botswana. He encouraged the Ghanzi District to explore the possibilities of trialing these crops, suggesting they could be a game-changer for local farmers. In closing, he reaffirmed BUAN’s dedication to working closely with the Ghanzi District Council to foster long-term growth. “Together, we can enhance the agricultural value chain, promote food security, and ensure that the people of this district prosper while utilizing their natural resources sustainably,” he said. The meeting concluded with a call for partnership between BUAN and the Ghanzi District Council, aiming to create a resilient and sustainable future for the people of Ghanzi. The collaboration promises to leverage BUAN’s expertise and resources, offering an optimistic path forward for the district’s agricultural and socio-economic development. BUAN Legal Disclaimer: This message contains confidential information and is intended only for the individual(s) addressed in the message| If your are not the named addresse,you should not disseminate,distribute,or copy this email| If you are not the intended recipient,you are notified that disclosing,distributing,or copying this email is strictly prohibited.
24 March, 2025
Exciting Partnership Announcement: BUAN & GIS PLAN Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Memorandum of Understanding (MoA)Signed
We are pleased to announce that today, the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GIS PLAN, a leading consultancy firm specializing in urban, rural, and regional planning, as well as GIS, environmental management, eco-tourism, and more. This partnership marks the beginning of a dynamic collaboration aimed at fostering development and innovation in Botswana, SADC, and across Africa. The MoU sets a framework for both institutions to work together on a range of joint activities, from academic and business partnerships to research, technology, and capacity building. Key Areas of Cooperation Include: *Academic and business partnerships across SADC and Africa *Staff and student mobility programs *Joint research and development initiatives *Technology and innovation collaboration, including patent development *Creation of joint academic programs at all levels *Capacity building in human resources, technology, and infrastructure Additionally, we are excited to announce that this MoU will be supported by a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), which outlines specific initiatives, including: *Capacity building in the Industrial Hemp Agro-Industry *Collaborative research on industrial hemp applications *Joint seminars, conferences, and public lectures on industrial hemp *Development of academic programs in hemp agriculture and policy *Knowledge transfer and expertise development *Policy and regulatory framework development Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele, during the signing ceremony, emphasized that this partnership will not only enrich BUAN's academic and research capacity but will also create more opportunities for our graduates in both local and global job markets. Through this collaboration, we aim to significantly contribute to the growth of Botswana's agriculture and natural resource sectors, ultimately benefiting both BUAN graduates and the wider community. This partnership demonstrates our commitment to enhancing program delivery, advancing research, and increasing business growth opportunities for all involved. We look forward to a successful and impactful collaboration. #BUAN #GISPLAN #Partnerships #Research
07 March, 2025
BUAN Vice- Chancellor Advocates for Strategic Collaborations to Drive Sustainable Growth in Botswana
In a compelling address at the Serowe District Full Council meeting, the Vice-Chancellor of BUAN (Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources), Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele outlined a bold vision for the future—one focused on building sustainable partnerships that will foster lasting socio-economic development in Serowe District and across Botswana. Central to Profesor Mosepele’s message was the belief that collaboration is essential to achieving the university's mission of improving the livelihoods of Batswana. “Our strategic focus is to engage with communities and foster partnerships that can drive sustainable growth. We believe these partnerships will be instrumental in advancing Botswana’s food and nutrition security, and we cannot do this alone,” Professor Mosepele said. He emphasized that sustainability is at the core of BUAN’s mission, with their guiding principle—"Inspiring Sustainable Growth"—driving every initiative. BUAN’s commitment to becoming the center of the Green Economy in Botswana is not just about research but about creating practical, on-the-ground solutions that will have a meaningful impact on communities. “We need partners, stakeholders, and communities to join us in building a self-sufficient and resilient future for Botswana,” the Chancellor added, calling for a shared commitment to work together for sustainable development. Key areas of collaboration highlighted during the address included: Sustainable Livestock Management: Leveraging BUAN’s expertise in animal health, genetics, and nutrition to improve livestock farming practices across the region. Agro-Tourism: Developing vocational training programs to empower youth and adults, positioning agro-tourism as a viable growth sector. Climate Change Adaptation: Collaborating on strategies to address climate change, including the introduction of climate-resilient crops like Safflower, a high-value crop poised to transform local agriculture. Youth Empowerment: Supporting young entrepreneurs through BUAN’s INCUHIVE program and the upcoming SECHABA program, offering mentorship and skills development for youth in agriculture and natural resources. SECHABA is an initiative focus on development of start-ups for out-of-school youth, and will be implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Gender Affairs. Youth will be assisted and mentored to develop Agriculture and Natural Resources start-ups for 3 – 12 months. He concluded with a call to action: "We want to walk together, and by doing so, we will build a stronger, more sustainable Botswana for future generations." BUAN is eager to work alongside local and international partners to bring this vision to life. #SustainableGrowth #Partnerships #GreenEconomy # #ClimateResilience
27 February, 2025
BUAN Joins Hands with Community Trusts to Pave the Way for Sustainable Tourism and Agriculture!
Over the years, community trusts in different parts of Botswana have been instrumental in representing the interests of local communities and implementing effective natural resource management. One key challenge these trusts have helped tackle is Human-Wildlife Conflict. Today, Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele and his expert team visited the Wild Cru Trust and Chobe Enclave Conservation Trust (CECT) in Kavimba and Kalepa Community Trust to explore potential areas for collaboration, as Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) looks to expand its impact. As BUAN, we aim to support sustainable agriculture and tourism development in the region. Our goal is to help preserve the natural resources, ecosystems, and biodiversity that make this area so attractive to tourists and conducive for farming. We believe in the power of collaboration to make this happen! Some exciting areas of collaboration include training and research which will lead to the development of climate-resilient agricultural and tourism practices that ensure the long-term viability of both industries, benefiting local communities and the environment alike. BUAN is also proud of its Agrivoltaic plant, the largest in Africa, which combines solar energy production with horticultural production on the same land. This is just one example of the advanced technologies we bring to the table to support infrastructure, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture. Climate change presents a significant challenge across Botswana, prompting enthusiasm among community trusts regarding the potential benefits of collaboration with BUAN. The Trusts anticipate that this partnership will facilitate the sharing of knowledge, promote sustainable land use, and enhance socio-economic development through innovative research initiatives tailored to their specific contexts. At BUAN, we are committed to being more than just an academic institution – we’re a catalyst for sustainable economic growth, agricultural development, and environmental stewardship.
26 February, 2025
BUAN Vice Chancellor Advocates for Collaboration and Sustainable Development in the Chobe District
In today's address to the Chobe District's full council meeting, the Vice Chancellor of the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) emphasized the university’s commitment to sustainable development and its potential role in driving socio-economic growth in the region. As the university aligns itself with the key pillars of Vision 2036, BUAN aims to foster strategic partnerships that bridge the gaps between agriculture, natural resources, and tourism. Through research, innovation, and hands-on training, BUAN is not only contributing to the development of local communities but also positioning itself as a leader in sustainable solutions for the future. The Vice Chancellor highlighted BUAN’s dedication to creating a food-secure and climate-resilient future, emphasizing that a collaborative approach is essential for success. This vision includes harnessing the power of agro-tourism, promoting eco-friendly tourism, and advancing renewable energy projects such as BUAN’s groundbreaking Agrivoltaic plant. With an ambitious strategy focused on entrepreneurial growth, BUAN is expanding its educational offerings and strengthening its commitment to vocational training, particularly for the youth in the Chobe District. This includes the development of a satellite campus in Kasane, which will provide practical, locally relevant programs in agriculture, tourism, and sustainability. Through these efforts, BUAN aims to be a cornerstone in creating a self-sufficient, resilient, and sustainable future for Botswana.
12 February, 2025
LAC VISITS BUAN ON A BENCHMARKING EXERCISE
Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) recently hosted a three-day visit from Lesotho Agricultural College (LAC). The primary objective of LAC's visit was to benchmark best practices in various areas, including program development, teaching methods, student assessments, research initiatives, and community outreach efforts. As LAC aims to enhance its academic offerings, the college is looking to reenergize its programs and introduce Bachelor of Science degrees, transitioning from its current focus on diploma courses in agriculture. During the benchmarking exercise, LAC representatives toured the BUAN campus to observe the available machinery and agricultural fields. The visit also facilitated a valuable exchange of ideas concerning the accreditation of educational programs
10 February, 2025
The Ecosystem-Based Adaptation and Mitigation of Communal Rangelands project team participated in the 2025 Herding for Health (H4H) Indaba
The Ecosystem-Based Adaptation and Mitigation of Communal Rangelands project team, comprising members from the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) and Conservation International (CI), participated in the 2025 Herding for Health (H4H) Indaba held in Hoedspruit, South Africa. This engagement served as part of a benchmarking exercise focused on the H4H initiative which is aimed at supporting rural communities by promoting sustainable livestock management. The Ecosystem-Based Adaptation and Mitigation of Communal Rangelands project is sponsored by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the Government of Botswana and is implemented by Conservation International in collaboration with BUAN. BUAN's role in the project include the development of professional herders curricula and the provision of training to the herders across three designated districts: Ngamiland, Bobirwa, and Kgalagadi. The training will be facilitated through the Centre for In-Service and Continuing Education (CICE). The Indaba featured the participation of esteemed representatives: Dr. Israel Legwaila, Dr. Keneilwe Kgosikoma, and Dr. James Machete. The team presented a summary of curricula developed by a Team of 15 experts from BUAN covering several topics. Additionally, various teams from several Southern African countries currently implementing the H4H projects shared their experiences, challenges encountered, and proposed solutions. Participating countries included South Africa, Madagascar, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Eswatini, Mozambique, Germany (represented by GIZ), the United States of America (through Conservation International and the Peace Parks Foundation), and Kenya.
07 February, 2025
Fostering Regional Collaboration in Agriculture and Technology: The BUAN-MUAST Partnership for Advancing Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resource Management
On February 7, 2025, the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) and Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (MUAST) convened for a collaborative meeting aimed at exploring potential areas of partnership. Both institutions are dedicated to advancing agriculture, technology, and natural resource management in Botswana and Zimbabwe, respectively, and this meeting marked their second engagement focusing on shared objectives. During the discussions, Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele, Vice Chancellor of BUAN, underscored the critical role both universities play in conducting innovative research and cultivating future leaders in the agriculture and natural resources sectors. He emphasized that a collaboration between BUAN and MUAST will offer valuable opportunities for mutual learning, which is essential for developing effective solutions to the pressing challenges faced by both nations. Professor Justice Nyamangara, Vice Chancellor of MUAST, acknowledged the significance of this partnership, especially in the context of climate change and its impact on soil quality and agricultural productivity. He spoke about the revelations brought about by the recent floods that took place in Zimbabwe and Mozambique. He noted that the floods made them realize that agricultural education encompasses many aspects that require serious consideration, including psychology and cultural education. This sparked a discussion about how BUAN conducts its farmers and students outreach programs. BUAN has a business center called Centre For In-Service And Continuing Education, which is an outreach arm of the university that offers professional short courses developed based on the needs of various stakeholders. Different communities are engaged in the development of these courses. Additionally, the center provides a platform for panel discussions on topics that affect different stakeholders. Both institutions recognized their commonalities and the potential for joint research initiatives to drive transformative changes in agricultural practices, ultimately enhancing food security in their respective countries. The MUAST delegation included the Dean of the Faculty of Plant and Animal Sciences and Technology, the Director of Marketing and Agri-Work Related Learning and Outreach Programs, the Deputy Registrar for Academic Affairs, and the Manager of Public, International Relations, and Resource Mobilization from MUAST, alongside BUAN’s executive management and faculty representatives. The meeting concluded with a tour of BUAN's facilities, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas on further enhancing their institutions and advancing their shared mission. This partnership stands as a beacon of hope for agricultural innovation in Southern Africa, inspiring creative solutions to the challenges faced in contemporary agriculture and beyond
31 January, 2025
BUAN PARTICIPATES AT THE MEDICINAL CANNABIS AND INDUSTRIAL HEMP CONFERENCE
Today, the Canada-Botswana City Partnerships hosted an important conference on Medicinal Cannabis and Industrial Hemp, featuring a keynote address by Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele. The conference was themed “Enhancing Local Entrepreneurship and Innovation Ecosystems: Unlocking the Potential of Medicinal Cannabis and Industrial Hemp.” Its primary goal was to gather ideas and promote knowledge-sharing about the significant role these sectors play in national development. Professor Mosepele emphasized the necessity for Batswana to embrace innovative approaches to socio-economic growth. He articulated that this conference represents a pivotal moment for Botswana to take advantage of the benefits of the Green Economy, particularly by integrating medicinal cannabis and industrial hemp into agricultural production systems. He stressed that exploring alternative crops is crucial for enhancing resilience within Botswana's agricultural framework. Quoting an African proverb, he stated, “Opportunity does not wake those who are asleep,” underscoring the importance of seizing emerging opportunities for maximum benefit. He referenced a 2023 report from the UK House of Commons Library, which noted that the UK is the largest global producer and exporter of medicinal cannabis, with a market valued at $239 million. In contrast, a report from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development indicated that China leads in industrial hemp production, with its market worth nearly $1 billion in 2022. These statistics highlight the significant economic potential that Botswana could harness from these industries. Discussions at the conference focused on how medicinal cannabis and industrial hemp could revitalize Botswana’s economy by driving diversification, creating employment opportunities, and promoting sustainability. The potential for these sectors to position Botswana as a regional leader in agricultural innovation was a recurring theme. Panel discussions included insights from experts from Zimbabwe and South Africa, who shared their experiences in developing sustainable cannabis and hemp industries. A key takeaway from these discussions was the recognition of medicinal cannabis and industrial hemp as viable pathways for job creation in rural areas. The Medicinal Cannabis and Industrial Hemp Conference served as a platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders interested in advancing these sectors within Botswana. As highlighted by Professor Mosepele, embracing these opportunities is not only vital for economic growth but also essential for fostering sustainable development in line with global trends. The event concluded with a call to action for all participants to collaborate in realizing the transformative potential of medicinal cannabis and industrial hemp in Botswana's economy.
16 January, 2025
BUAN, Conservation International, Green Climate Fund and the Botswana Government commit to Preserving Botswana’s Communal Rangelands
The recent impacts of climate change have prompted notable shifts in agricultural practices for Batswana. Challenges such as securing adequate feed for livestock and achieving satisfactory crop yields have become increasingly prevalent due to severe droughts and floods. These conditions have adversely affected the ecosystem, leading to difficulties for wildlife in finding sufficient food, escalating human-wildlife conflicts, and causing significant degradation of our rangelands. In response to these critical challenges, the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) has partnered with Conservation International (CI) and the Botswana Government to implement the Ecosystem-Based Adaptation and Mitigation in Botswana’s Communal Rangelands project. This project is funded by the Green Climate Fund, Conservation International Foundation, and Botswana Government. The project aims to drive significant improvements in rangeland management, creating a sustainable framework that bolsters our communities' socioeconomic well-being and climate resilience, enhances ecosystem health, and reduces national Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. The planned interventions under this project are designed to significantly enhance the adaptive capacity of Batswana as they navigate the effects of climate change on communal lands in Ngamiland, Kgalagadi, and Bobirwa. These regions have been specifically identified due to their high vulnerability to climate change and their socioeconomic sensitivities. This initiative aims to reinforce institutions and support systems for climate-responsive planning and management within communal rangelands. Community engagement is a critical element of this project because the community is the one that experiences firsthand the impacts of climate change in their area. Therefore, the first thing the project team had to do to initiate this endeavor was engage with the communities in Ngamiland. On January 14th, BUAN and CI visited Habu village in Ngamiland to engage with village leadership and the trustees of Wild Entrust. Established to address human-wildlife conflict and promote community development, Wild Entrust focuses on education, intergenerational development, and the sustainable conservation of local resources. Given the community's struggles with livestock predation by wild animals, the trust has employed a team of scouts to oversee livestock herding and manage in wildlife grazing and movement. However, there is a recognized need for additional community members to receive training in wildlife management to empower them to respond effectively to wildlife encounters while promoting coexistence. On January 16th, the team set off for Eretsha with the CLAWS Conservancy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to mitigating human-lion conflict in the Okavango Community Trust villages, which include Seronga, Gunotsoga, Eretsha, Beetsha, and Gudigwa. Similar to the Wild Entrust, the CLAWS Conservancy has introduced livestock herding in these villages. Since 2019, attacks on livestock have significantly decreased, with only two cattle lost from the herd. Despite this success, the communities have communicated to BUAN and CI that they need training in animal husbandry, financial management, and wild animal behavior The role of BUAN in this project is to empower communities in the sustainable conservation of rangelands by designing targeted short programs that address their specific needs. Participants will gain insights into their ecosystems, the importance of conservation, and the role of each organism within that framework. These programs will be inclusive and will acknowledge and incorporate Indigenous knowledge, fostering a comprehensive understanding of ecological balance and sustainable practices essential for the future stewardship of Botswana’s rangelands