Agric ministry assesses poverty eradication fishery projects

The Ministry of Agriculture recently held a two-day workshop to validate the assessment of five poverty eradication aquaculture projects. The projects are Thito Integrated Fish Farming Project, Ukusi Integrated Fish Farming Project, Parakarungu Multi-Cooperative Society, North East Fish Farming Project, and Kgatleng East Fish Farming Project. The workshop, which was conducted by Department of Aquaculture and Apiculture (DAA), was attended by representatives from advisory institutions (BUAN, UB, BUIST, NARDI), the Botswana Fish Farmers Association, external experts, Aquaculture and Apiculture personnel, wealth creation personnel, and other stakeholders. The workshop evaluated the proposed models for the various projects based on the deliverables and recommendations by the appointed technical team. According to the ministry, the process was planned to help map a way forward and validate the selection of sustainable Aquaculture models for poverty eradication beneficiaries. ‘It was also emphasised that there is a need for sustainable fish production in Botswana to improve livelihoods, create sustainable employment opportunities, generate income, and most importantly diversify the economy.’ Stakeholders had an opportunity to openly share their experiences in Aquaculture, business modelling, and costing of projects to guide the work of the day. A Sustainability strategy and an Exit strategy were then devised to complete the activity. The report was approved with the corrections provided by the experts and stakeholders.