He said part of the money will be used to sponsor the Maunatlala and Lentsweletau shows that are also big events in their respective areas. The Gantsi Show was allocated P56 500.
Marole said he was disturbed that agriculture, which used to contribute immensely to the country's economy, had dropped to only three percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, he said the drop was partly attributable to growth in other sectors of the economy, such as mining and manufacturing.
Marole also blamed poor rains, which he called a serious challenge to farmers in Botswana. He said the people of Gantsi are blessed with plenty of land and encouraged them to use government assistance schemes to develop ranches. He was satisfied with the high quality of cattle the Gantsi area is producing, but urged the farmers to explore arable farming, despite their sandy land.
"Gantsi is not only a producer of high quality beef, but the farmers are hardworking. They need to be commended for their creativity and innovation."
Marole commended Government for introducing the cattle identification programme, saying that was in line with European Union requirements where Botswana Beef has a large market.
For his part, Minister Swartz labelled the Gantsi District Show as the biggest and most popular agricultural show in Botswana. He said that there is an ongoing exchange of ideas between indigenous and white farmers in the area, hence the high quality livestock.
Swartz cited a billy goat that was sold for P13 000 during the show, saying livestock is a source of employment in Gantsi. Swartz also urged farmers not to be discouraged by the unfriendly climate in Botswana, and urged them to utilize government assistance schemes. He urged the District Show Committee to develop the showgrounds by building permanent structures.
Swartz revealed his reservations regarding the Gaborone International Trade Fair that has since changed its name to Global Expo Botswana. He said the fair is held at a wrong time of the year, during summer, when temperatures are high, making it difficult to transport livestock from Gantsi and other places. He said they will continue negotiating with stakeholders to consider changing the time.
