First Capital Bank collaborates with the Ministry of Agriculture and Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) on hosting the seminar on breeding for economic growth and sustainability in Gaborone. The aim of this seminar was for thought leaders, agriculture experts and industry professionals to share their insights and best practices on sustainable livestock farming, and with over 160 attendees one could say it was a success.
The Agri Seminar brought in diverse speakers such as Dr. Julieta Fernandez Madero all the way from Argentina, Mr. Ernest Janovsky from South Africa and our very own Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs and Research (BUAN), Professor Othusitse R. Madibela. Each speaker shared their expertise and experiences on breeding strategies for improving meat quality in cattle, also the effects of global market trends on Botswana’s agricultural markets just to name a few.
“The presence of experts from a variety of countries highlighted the importance of this event, which allowed for the sharing of innovative breeding methods that could improve productivity in the sector. As a bank, we recognize the crucial role agriculture plays in our country’s economy and fully commit to supporting initiatives that promote sustainable development and economic growth, “highlighted First Capital Bank’s Chief Executive Officer, Reinette van der Merwe.
Addressing the attendees, the Assistant Minister of Agriculture, Honorable Molebatsi Molebatsi, said “Transformation and Liberalization of the beef industry is key towards growth and global competitiveness of the agricultural sector. We have therefore noticed parliament through a bill for the Establishment of Meat Regulatory Authority (MIRA). This will allow a full participation of all key Value Chain players in the running of the beef industry and bring about institutional and regulatory reforms in the livestock sector in the country.”
In Conclusion, the Agric Seminar was a great success, and the First Capital Bank looks forward to hosting similar events in the future as a way to continue to drive innovation and promote sustainable development in the agriculture sector of Botswana.