Agric professional association launched
Phatsimo Kapeng | Tuesday August 23, 2022 06:00
The launch marked a significant development within the agricultural sector in the country. Speaking during the launch, BASPA board chairperson, Lorato Morapedi said they acquired a lot of wisdom through institutions of learning, hands on experience, coaching or mentoring.
She stated that what normally lacks is a properly structured organisation and consolidation of expertise so that they are more coordinated and well positioned for the business community to cash the intellectual dividend from its professionals.
“This is what sparked our dream, particularly at a time where our country is a net importer of food and food security is a priority for us”, said Morapedi. “A group of young agricultural science professionals came together, mobilised their peers, and other professionals to join in pursuing this just cause. Yes, together we achieved a lot.
Challenges encountered and many sacrifices made did not make us lose focus. I have no doubt that all those who have been part of this journey this far are looking back with a smile with one voice saying, ‘Yes, We made it’!,”, she further said. Moreover, Morapedi assured the nation that as professionals in agricultural sciences and related disciplines that support the agricultural sector, they are ready to work with the Ministry of Agriculture, farmers, and other service providers within the agricultural value chain to advance the country’s food security agenda.
She indicated that at BASPA, they believe in taking action and making impact. “In that regard, and in recognition that the nation is looking up to us to share our wisdom, guide, and advice on existing opportunities, after the official launch of the association we will dive into what we stand for,” she explained.
For his part, Minister of Agriculture, Fidelis Molao, said the association comes at the right time as it is very relevant towards the successful implementation of the Reset Agenda of the government.” I am informed that the Botswana Agricultural Sciences Professionals has been established with a clear mandate of insuring active participation of agricultural professionals in the local food chain system”, he said. The minister also stated that BASPA’s existence comes as a development partner towards strengthening and uplifting Botswana’s agriculture.
He said the agricultural development agenda should not be left to government alone as it is for all. “The industry should not be driven by government alone. Government should be seen as an enabler that gives agriculture more room for business to intervene through the policies and programmes provided", he added. Molao explained that the effects of COVID-19 were visible to everyone and it affected access to food and food systems.
There were disruptions of food supply chains because of the lockdowns caused by the pandemic and also a major global economic slowdown was experienced. “I want to believe that as BASPA you are equipped with the skills and knowledge or knowledgeable professionals who will work together to be the change makers in our country and I am aware that the majority of the membership currently are young, some are employed graduate professionals in different fields. This gives us an opportunity to prosper together”, he concluded.