News Date : 23 October, 2025
Strengthening Collaboration for Community Development and Food Security
The Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) and the Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs continue to strengthen their long-standing partnership dedicated to advancing community empowerment, sustainable development, and national food security. The collaboration, anchored by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), reflects a shared commitment to supporting Botswana’s socio-economic transformation through knowledge exchange, research, and community-based initiatives.
During a recent courtesy meeting between BUAN Vice Chancellor, Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele, and the Honourable Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mr. Ketlhalefile Motshegwa, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to deepening institutional collaboration. The meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on progress made under the existing MoU and to explore areas for expansion in response to emerging national development priorities.
In his remarks, Minister Motshegwa commended BUAN for its pivotal role in Botswana’s industrialization and community development agenda. He emphasized the importance of leveraging BUAN’s expertise in agricultural innovation, capacity building, and research to empower local communities and strengthen grassroots economic resilience. The Minister further noted that the MoU would be reviewed and enhanced to ensure that it remains responsive to the evolving needs of citizens and aligns with national policies on local governance and rural development.
Professor Mosepele expressed BUAN’s continued commitment to collaborating with government and community partners to address pressing challenges in food security and sustainable livelihoods. He highlighted BUAN’s strategic focus on developing human capital, advancing applied research, and promoting agricultural entrepreneurship as key drivers of inclusive growth. “BUAN remains dedicated to working hand in hand with the Ministry to empower communities with the knowledge and skills required to achieve self-sufficiency and contribute meaningfully to Botswana’s development goals,” he affirmed.
The discussions also underscored the shared objective of enhancing local capacity for sustainable agricultural practices, improving food systems, and fostering innovation in rural enterprises. Through joint programmes, training, and outreach initiatives, BUAN and the Ministry aim to equip communities with practical skills for food production, income generation, and environmental stewardship.
This renewed collaboration marks an important step in reinforcing the link between academic research, policy implementation, and community development. By pooling expertise and resources, BUAN and the Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs continue to play a vital role in shaping a more resilient, inclusive, and food-secure Botswana.