The National Agricultural Research and Development Institute (NARDI) and the Insect Factory, a 100 percent Botswana-owned private company dedicated to insect conservation and agricultural insect management, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to tackle the growing challenges of agricultural pests in Botswana through innovative, environmentally sustainable solutions.
The partnership will focus on insect identification, monitoring and management through innovative solutions such as biological control methods which have proven to be more cost-effective and environmentally sustainable than synthetic pesticides.
Speaking at the MoU signing recently, Assistant Minister of Lands and Agriculture Dr. Edwin Dikoloti emphasised that, “by harnessing beneficial insects to combat pests, non-target species like pollinators are protected while reducing environmental harm.”
He explained that farmers will be empowered with knowledge and non-chemical pest management techniques by leveraging applied research, education initiatives like field days, and the use of NARDI’s state-of-the-art Nikon SMZ25 stereo microscope.
“Furthermore, it opens avenues for economic opportunities by exploring ways for Batswana to benefit from invertebrates like Mophane worms,” he said.
Insect Factory Principal Entomologist, Professor Graham Hall, added that the MoU also represents a commitment to creating employment opportunities for Botswana’s youth in agricultural science, research and extension services. He said, “Through the partnership with NARDI, Insect Factory is excited about the employment, economic and environmental opportunities which lie ahead in the use of novel practices for a more sustainable agriculture future.”
Finally, NARDI CEO Professor Julius Atlhopheng marked the occasion as momentous, underscoring the potential to transform not only the agriculture sector but the nation at large. He added that such strategic partnerships are key in delivering impactful and innovative solutions for the country.
