Report on the Two-Day Workshop on Moringa Farming, Value Addition, and Export Certification Processes

  

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Event Summary

• Event Title: Moringa Farming, Value Addition, and Export Certification Workshop
• Dates: 13th - 14th December 2024
• Venue: University of Botswana (UB)
• Facilitators:
• Hunter, Executive President of Farmer's Pride International and Hunter’s Global Network
• Carol Thokwane, Agroecology Expert and Co-Facilitator
• Participants: 14 attendees (7 men and 7 women) from the Southern District of Botswana

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Workshop Objectives

1. Equip participants with essential knowledge of Moringa farming and agro-processing.
2. Train farmers on adding value to Moringa products for profitability.
3. Provide a detailed understanding of export certification and market compliance.
4. Promote sustainable farming practices, including agroecology and regenerative agriculture.

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Workshop Overview and Key Topics

Day 1: Introduction to Moringa Farming

1. Understanding Moringa Farming

• Overview of Moringa species, with emphasis on Moringa oleifera.
• Its adaptability to Botswana’s climate and its global economic importance.

2. Agro-Ecological Conditions for Moringa Growth

• Ideal soil types, climate, and water requirements.
• Soil preparation, testing, and fertilization methods.

3. Planting Methods and Spacing

• Direct Seeding: Cost-effective for large-scale farming.
• Transplanting Seedlings: Ensures higher survival rates.
• Recommended Spacing:
• 1m x 1m: For leaf production.
• 3m x 3m: For seed and oil production.

4. Farm Management and Maintenance

• Regular weeding, pruning, and pest management.
• Watering schedules using drip irrigation systems.

5. Harvesting and Post-Harvest Management

• Leaf and seed harvesting intervals.
• Drying, packaging, and storage methods for maintaining product quality.

6. Economic Value of Moringa in Botswana

• Local and international market demand.
• Opportunities in agro-processing and export markets.

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Day 2: Value Addition and Export Certification

1. Value Addition in Moringa Farming

• Processing Moringa into products such as:
• Leaf powder for supplements and teas.
• Ben Oil for cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
• Soaps, capsules, and protein bars.

2. Packaging and Branding for Export

• Professional packaging standards to ensure product quality and longevity.
• Branding strategies for gaining market visibility.

3. Certification and Compliance for Export

• Key Certifications:
• Organic Certification
• Fair-Trade Certification
• Phytosanitary Certificate
• Food Safety Standards (HACCP, ISO)

4. Global Market Integration

• Market opportunities in Europe, the USA, and Asia.
• Compliance with international trade agreements such as AfCFTA and EU regulations.

5. Business Development and Financial Planning

• Crafting a business plan and estimating production costs.
• Profitability projections and potential ROI.
• Accessing funding through grants, loans, and PPPs.

6. Success Stories and Lessons Learned

• Case studies from Botswana, Africa, and other international markets.

7. Interactive Session and Q&A

• Participants shared challenges, exchanged ideas, and discussed future farming plans.

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Workshop Outcomes

1. Knowledge Empowerment:
   Farmers acquired comprehensive skills in Moringa farming, agro-processing, and export readiness.
2. Business Development Skills:
   Participants learned how to brand, package, and market Moringa products profitably.
3. Networking and Collaboration:
   The workshop created a platform for future collaborations among farmers, facilitators, and investors.
4. Action Plans for Implementation:
   Each participant developed a personalized action plan for their farming projects.

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Farm Visit and Practical Demonstration

The workshop concluded with a visit to Mr. Mogomotsi Madise’s Moringa Farm. Participants received hands-on training in planting, maintenance, and harvesting techniques. Mr. Madise shared how he successfully sells Moringa products to Chinese companies and recently secured a supply contract with the German market. His success story inspired participants to adopt best practices and pursue export opportunities.

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Next Steps and Follow-Up Actions

• Follow-Up Support: Continuous mentorship from Farmer’s Pride International.
• Cluster Development: Establishing Agriculture-Based Clusters (ABCs) for shared learning and cooperative marketing.
• Technical Assistance: Support in farm management, agro-processing, and exporting.
• Evaluation Meeting: Progress review after three months to assess and address implementation challenges.

For more information visit FPI website: 

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Conclusion

The two-day workshop on Moringa farming was a transformative learning experience that strengthened participants’ agricultural knowledge and business skills. By integrating practical farm visits, export compliance training, and value-added production sessions, the workshop equipped farmers with the tools needed to succeed in the Moringa agribusiness sector. This initiative aligns with Farmer’s Pride International’s mission to empower farmers, promote agro-industrial growth, and support Botswana’s economic development.

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Report Compiled By:
Elfas Zadzagomo Mc Shangwa (Hunter)
Executive President, Farmer's Pride International
Co-Facilitator: Carol Thokwane