Rural & Urban Agriculture Innovative Production Program (RUAIPP).

From Farm to Fork: Agriculture is the backbone of many African economies, and most farming is done in rural areas. These regions account for much of Africa's economic activity, food production, and employment.  However, despite their critical role in sustaining livelihoods and driving national economies, rural farming communities often fail to reap the full benefits of their labour.   Raw produce is sold at low prices, only to be processed elsewhere and resold at significantly higher values, leaving rural farmers with a fraction of the wealth their efforts generate. Agriculture’s Cornerstone Role in Africa Agriculture is the cornerstone of Africa's economy, and rural areas play a pivotal role in this sector. Approximately 65–70% of Africa’s labour force is employed in agriculture, contributing about 25% to the continent's GDP . Notably, over 70% of Africa's poor reside in rural areas, where agriculture serves as their primary livelihood. Despite this, rural commun...

    Farmers learning SLM with FPI in Soroti, Eastern Uganda  (2024) As the world grapples with the effects of climate change, farmers are on the frontlines, facing unpredictable weather patterns, prolonged droughts, and soil degradation. In this new era of agricultural challenges,  Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA)  emerges as a beacon of hope. CSA is not just a farming method; it is a transformative approach that combines  sustainable land management  and  agroecology  to build resilience, enhance productivity, and ensure environmental sustainability. This article delves into actionable CSA strategies, focusing on how sustainable land management and agroecology can equip farmers to thrive in tomorrow's unpredictable climate. Why Climate-Smart Agriculture Matters Farmers are not only food producers but also stewards of the environment. Climate-smart agriculture bridges the gap between economic growth and environmental sustainability by addr...

As I write, potatoes are not available on the Botswana market except in stores like FOURS, Spar, Shoprite, and Choppies, which rely heavily on imports to meet consumer demand. This scarcity raises critical questions about food security, economic diversification, and the untapped potential of potato farming in Botswana. Potatoes are not just a staple food but a significant contributor to agricultural economies worldwide, offering immense opportunities for income generation, rural development, and industrial growth. This article explores the implications of the potato shortage for farmers, consumers, and the economy while proposing strategic recommendations to harness potatoes' economic power . I am proud that my organization was the first in Botswana to train farmers in potato farming , starting this groundbreaking initiative in 2022 . Since then, we have successfully trained over 7,000 farmers , equipping them with the knowledge and skills to cultivate this highly versatile and eco...