Bull Donation initiative
His Excellency the President Dr Mokgweetsi E. K. Masisi has assured Batswana that deserving farmers who have demonstrated commitment and resilience in their cattle rearing will continue to benefit from his Bull Donation initiative.
Speaking this morning at Nakatsakgokong cattlepost near Lerala, and also at Ngwapa, Dr Masisi said as the Champion of the National 2036 Vision, his efforts are directly contributing to the attainment of its principles, which include reducing the gap between the rich and the poor.
He also explained that at first he donated bulls from his own krall before appealing to Batswana to assist, which they did. The President further said the number of pledged bulls has already surpassed the number of constituencies, adding that a formula will be devised on how to distribute the excess, free of charge.
Key to his strategy, he explained, is empowering farmers to adopt Artificial Insemination (AI) as a means to grow their herds, a commitment he demonstrated by launching a revised AI programme in Dibete recently.
The President said he hoped his ambitious plan of improving Botswana cattle genetics and expanding the beef value chain will extend beyond his presidency.
For his part, Agriculture Minister Honorable Fidelis Molao urged farmers to register their cattleposts in order to fulfill requirements of the international market. He further encouraged his Ministry staff to support farmers by making regular filed visits.
The two receipients expressed gratitude for the kind and unexpected gesture from His Excellency. They further promised to care for the bulls and maximize their economic value by working with veterinary personnel in their respective areas for guidance and technical support.
Mr Moilwa received a prime Simbra bull (Simental and Brahman cross breed) while Mr Koobokile received a pure Brahman bull. Furthermore, they each received vaccines, cattle feed and other goodies from the Botswana Vaccine Institute and the Botswana Agricultural Marketing Board, amongst others.
