21 May 2017

Vice President, Mr Mokgweetsi Masisi, on Thursday May 18 handed over a tractor and farming implements donated to Tshwaane farmers by the Chinese embassy.

The donation was made following a request by the Vice President, who is also Member of Parliament for Moshupa/Manyana constituency.

The Vice President thanked the embassy, saying the equipment would help increase agricultural productivity and empower local farmers.

Mr Masisi said the tractor would be handed over to Ipelego Trust in his constituency to administer farming works. The trust, he said, was formed to develop farmers in the area.

He promised residents of Tshwaane that he would in future seek assistance for another tractor.

The trust will utilise ISPAAD programme and plough for residents, sated Mr Masisi.

He appealed to farmers to clear their fields so as to avoid breakdowns. The Chinese ambassador to Botswana, Dr Zhao Yanbo said there was no doubt that agriculture was the backbone of any nation.

He said Botswana and China placed great emphasis in agricultural development.

Dr Zhao applauded government for its commitment to the development of agriculture, saying they have witnessed tremendous efforts being made to develop the sector.

‘’Through Chinese government’s correct and consistent policy, agricultural technology improvement and farmers’ hard work, we have succeeded in feeding our 1.3 billion population with very limited arable land,’’ said ambassador.

He said China would share its experience in agricultural development with Africa and transfer readily applicable technologies.

Dr Zhao stated that China and Botswana had a long standing friendly relationship, and assured that China was willing to prioritise support for Botswana’s agricultural modernisation as cooperation continued. ENDS