Dikoloti calls for bold transformation in agriculture
Pini Bothoko | Wednesday October 22, 2025 06:00
Speaking during the World Food Day commemoration that was held at Maunatlala recently, Dikoloti said the time has come for Botswana to adopt innovative and climate-smart agricultural practices that boost productivity whilst protecting the environment.
“Our farmers must have access to improved seeds, modern technologies, efficient water management, and climate-smart practices. Transforming agriculture requires strategies rooted in innovation, collaboration, and resilience,” he said.
Dikoloti noted that the recently presented National Development Plan 12 (NDP12) provides a clear roadmap for agricultural transformation, envisioning a commercialised and competitive sector projected to create 250,000 jobs by 2030.
He said under the plan, the government would prioritise investment in infrastructure such as irrigation and water harvesting systems, alongside mechanisation and agribusiness development.
“This is not a distant dream; it is a roadmap for tangible progress,” he added.
The minister emphasised that the success of the transformation agenda would depend on strong partnerships between government, farmers, the private sector, academia, civil society, and development partners.
“True transformation requires partnership. Only when we work hand in hand will our efforts be sustainable, effective, and inclusive,” he said.
Dikoloti commended the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) for its continued technical and financial support to Botswana’s agricultural development. He also acknowledged regional and international partners such as SADC and the European Union, whose programmes he said complement national efforts in strengthening food systems.
The minister further highlighted the role of the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) in driving innovation and preparing young people for agribusiness through initiatives such as INCUHIVE and SECHABA.
He underscored ensuring food security as a collective responsibility, not the role of government alone.
“Together, through collective action, we can build a Botswana where food is not a privilege but a right, and where no one is left behind,” Dikoloti said.
Marking the 80th anniversary of FAO, Dikoloti called on stakeholders to recommit to the principles of solidarity, sustainability, and shared responsibility.
“Every innovation counts. Every harvest matters. Every partnership brings us closer to a Botswana where agriculture is not only a source of food, but a foundation for prosperity, resilience, and national pride,” he concluded.
Sharing the same sentiments, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations representative, Carla Mucavi, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Botswana’s efforts to strengthen food security and drive agricultural transformation as the organisation marks its 80th anniversary.
“This milestone reflects eight decades of global partnership and progress toward a world free from hunger and malnutrition. Today, as we celebrate World Food Day 2025, we also mark FAO’s 80th anniversary, eight decades of commitment, innovation, and belief that food security and sustainable development are the foundations of peace and prosperity,” she said.
Mucavi said Botswana and the region hold vast potential due to their abundant land, water, and youthful population. She commended the government’s development agenda, which places agriculture at the centre of economic growth and diversification.
“FAO welcomes this transformation and is confident it will reshape Botswana’s economy, strengthen food security, and uplift rural livelihoods,” she added.
Mucavi also paid tribute to the resilience of Botswana’s farmers, especially women and youth, whom she described as the backbone of agriculture. She warned, however, that climate change continues to threaten progress, calling for urgent action to build climate-smart and inclusive food systems.
“The impact of climate change is felt in every village and household, disrupting rainfall, depleting soils, and threatening livelihoods. We must reimagine how we grow, harvest, and share food to protect our planet and ensure sustainability,' Mucavi said.