Nata-Gweta Beef Farmers Encouraged to Embrace Inclusive Agripreneurship

Nata-Gweta Beef Farmers Encouraged to Embrace Inclusive Agripreneurship. Farmers in the Nata-Gweta Block have been urged to reposition agriculture as a strategic avenue for wealth creation, with a focus on youth and women empowerment in the beef sector.

Speaking at the Nata Gweta Block Beef Producers Association field day held in Zoroage over the weekend, Carla Mucavi, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Representative in Botswana, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in modern agriculture. She noted that while the cattle industry remains male-dominated, greater participation by youth and women could inject digital fluency, innovation, and fresh perspectives into the sector.

Mucavi called on beef farmers to take deliberate steps toward mentorship and capacity building by creating pathways for emerging farmers—particularly women and the youth. She highlighted the importance of providing access to essential resources like land, finance, and training as key enablers for transforming subsistence farmers into competitive agripreneurs.

With the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) now operational, Mucavi also encouraged Botswana beef producers to align with regional trade standards. “The 1.3 billion population market across the continent presents a massive opportunity,” she said, “but quality, traceability, and compliance are non-negotiables.”

For Botswana entrepreneurs in the beef value chain—from farming and processing to logistics—these insights present an opportunity to rethink business models and tap into regional and global markets.