11 Dec 2023

Horticultural farmers have been warned not to fall prey to the dangers of "Facebook farming" – the practice of relying solely on information found on social media when it comes to farming practices.

Addressing horticultural farmers at a field day organised by the Ministry of Agriculture in conjunction with Starke Eyres Seed company at Chenin Blanc farm east of Francistown on Saturday, a prominent figure in the agricultural sector, Mr Pius Malikongwa said doing so can lead to costly mistakes, as not all information on social media is accurate or reliable. 

Mr Malikongwa therefore said farmers should instead rely on expert advice and resources to ensure that they make the best decisions for their crops and their livelihoods.

Mr Malikongwa informed farmers that though horticulture is a very expensive business, it has good and quick returns.

He encouraged farmers not to cut corners when it comes to this sector, as it is vital to get the best possible results. 

He also advised the farmers about the use of chemicals and pesticides which is important for the health and safety of farmers, consumers, and the environment.

“It is essential to use the right products in the right way, in order to protect crops and ensure that they are safe for consumption.

Harvesting crops before they are mature can also be detrimental, as it can result in lower yields and reduced quality,” he added.

He highlighted the importance of good practices such as soil testing, crop rotation, and the use of the right seeds, which are crucial for success. 

He said these practices are invaluable to farmers who are looking to increase their profits and improve their yields.

He explained that today's harsh weather conditions require farmers who are resilient, innovative, and forward-thinking. 

He emphasised that the solutions to these challenges will come from within the farming community itself, and that the government is committed to supporting farmers in their efforts to adapt and overcome.

Mr Malikongwa called on farmers to embrace new technologies and farming practices, and to work together to build a more resilient agricultural sector. 

He said it was possible for Botswana to become a global leader in sustainable horticulture, and that farmers are the key to making this happen.

“It is against this backdrop that in light of the changing climate and the resulting impact on horticultural crops, the Ministry of Agriculture and Starke Ayres have taken proactive measures to help farmers adapt and thrive,” said Mr Malikongwa.

By hosting a field day for horticultural farmers, he said the organisers were showcasing seed varieties that are resilient for harsh weather conditions, empowering farmers with the knowledge and tools they need to be successful. 

He said this was a crucial step in ensuring the long-term sustainability of Botswana's horticultural sector, and will have a positive impact on food security and the livelihoods of farmers across the country.

Mr Malikongwa advised the participants to go out and put what they had learned into practice.

“The experts have shared valuable knowledge and advice, and it was up to the farmers to take that information and apply it in their own farms,” he said.

North East District Agricultural Coordinator, Mr Gwilidzani Maposa, advised farmers that it was not about the size of the land but the efficiency of the farmer.

He urged farmers not to focus solely on the size of their land. Instead, Mr Maposa urged them to focus on efficient and sustainable farming practices, such as proper soil management, crop rotation, and water conservation. 

He said these practices can help to maximize yields and ensure the long-term sustainability of the land. 

One farmer, who attended the event, Ms Idah Mathambo from Matshelagabedi, praised the organisers for their hard work and dedication. 

She said the event was a success, and that it had provided her with invaluable knowledge and information.

Ms Mathambo encouraged other farmers to take advantage of similar events in the future, as they are a valuable source of knowledge and advice.

In his welcome remarks, the managing director of Chenin Blanc, Mr Stephen Urio said Chenin Blanc was an example of what is possible in the horticultural sector. 

He said the success in the field was a testament to his hard work and dedication.

Mr Urio said the farm was ready to assist farmers in any possible way with the requisite skills and knowledge on how to improve and better their yields. 

The objective of the event was to build a strong team of farmers by taking hybrid seed varieties to farmers to ensure better production and productivity. ends