Botswana Strengthens Global Ties at IFAD Summit to Boost Agricultural Investment. Botswana is actively participating in the 48th Session of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) Governing Council, taking place from February 12-13, 2025, in Rome, Italy. Led by Honourable Edwin G. Dikoloti, Assistant Minister of Lands and Agriculture, the delegation is engaging in key discussions aimed at transforming rural economies and enhancing agricultural resilience.
This year’s theme, “Catalysing Investment at the 1st Mile,” focuses on mobilizing financial resources for smallholder farmers and rural communities. Global leaders, policymakers, and development partners are convening to explore strategies that drive sustainable agricultural growth and improve food security worldwide.
Botswana’s participation highlights its commitment to strengthening agricultural policies, increasing investment in rural development, and advancing climate-smart farming techniques. The delegation is actively involved in discussions on IFAD’s 2025 results-based programme, international financial mechanisms for agricultural sustainability, and policy innovations to empower small-scale farmers. These engagements align with Botswana’s broader vision of modernizing its agricultural sector to ensure food security, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability.
In addition to the main sessions, Botswana is taking part in high-level side events focused on South-South and Triangular Cooperation, rural investment strategies, and partnerships among Rome-based UN agencies. These forums provide opportunities to foster international collaboration, exchange best practices, and leverage new agricultural technologies that can benefit Botswana’s farmers.
