By Awyetu Asabe Hope
The Edo State Government has sought Botswana’s partnership in agriculture and livestock development as part of efforts to attract foreign investment ahead of its proposed International Agricultural and Livestock Investment Summit.
The state government made the appeal during a meeting with Botswana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Philada Kereng, at the country’s High Commission in Abuja on Friday.
The delegation was led by the Commissioners for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr Jerry Uwangue, and Livestock Development, Mr Ohimai Ehijimetor.
During the meeting, Kereng commended the state government’s efforts to develop livestock production and urged it to explore investment opportunities in agro-tourism and animal feed production.
She also pledged the High Commission’s support in attracting investors to the proposed summit.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the two commissioners said the meeting formed part of the state government’s consultations with diplomatic missions to secure international participation and investment for the summit.
The statement added that the proposed engagement would provide a platform for investors to explore opportunities in agriculture, livestock production, animal feed manufacturing and related businesses in Edo State.
Kereng’s recommendations highlighted potential areas for expanding the state’s investment drive beyond conventional farming and livestock rearing.
Animal feed production could help improve livestock productivity and reduce farmers’ production costs, while agro-tourism offers opportunities to generate additional income and support rural enterprises.
The delegation also included the Special Adviser on Livestock Development, Roland Igbadumhe; Senior Special Assistant on Agriculture and Food Security, Emmanuel Sule; and Director in the Ministry of Livestock Development, Lucky Adebudo.
The commissioners said the engagement reflected the state government’s efforts to build international partnerships capable of attracting investment, technical expertise and commercial participation in its agricultural and livestock sectors.
