The first tractor to be assembled was steered by BUAN students under the agricultural engineering department working under the tutelage of the professors and the AA employees. The tractor aptly named the YTO, ‘BHERO’ tractor is the first endeavor of its kind. Officiating at the event, President Mokgweetsi Masisi praised African Agriculture for its continued partnership with the university and its contributions to the agricultural sector through business operations. “I am informed that this tractor which is assembled by graduate students studying agricultural engineering and mechanization will be used for training purpose, as you are aware food security is on the top of our national development agenda. Therefore the assembling of the tractors in Botswana by Botswana will take this country far in terms of food production and competitiveness in the region.” Masisi said. He said it is also important to note that African Agriculture is also modifying implements for the tractors locally.
Theimplements are specially adapted to the Botswana environment which is a welcome development as it is in line with smart agricultural practices to mitigate the effects of climate change. He further pointed out that African Agriculture is expected to assemble up to 200 tractors annually once the organisation begins full production.
