Over the past month, the Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA) has had an opportunity to reflect and engage customers through various events in Mosu, Phokoje, Pandamatenga and Lobatse. All the activities were in the all-important Agriculture sector, which makes up 37% of the entire loans portfolio. CEDA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Thabo Thamane visited farms in Pandamatenga, amongst them Mabina Farming (Pty) Ltd and Ellen Hatty’s with a view to appreciate the production and engage the farmers in areas where they need further CEDA assistance. The Agency has financed over 10, 370ha of farms in Pandamatenga, and 72% of the total financed hectares have been ploughed this season.

CEDA was also present at the 13th Sandveld Ranchers Association Field Day in Phokoje Ranches which was officiated by His Honour the Vice President and Member of Parliament for Mmadinare, Dr. Ponatshego H.K Kedikilwe. Through his address, Dr Kedikilwe urged farmers to consider the survival and sustainability of the livestock sector. CEDA’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer- Operations, Mr Lesego Selotate re-emphasised the Agency’s commitment to its clients within the industry and to all the other stakeholders that participate in beef production. He committed that CEDA would continue to find ingenious ways to fund projects and surmount the problems that currently afflict the industry.

CEDA’s support for the beef sector culminated at the inaugural Lobatse Beef Festival, where Lobatse Town Council and Botswana Meat Commission (BMC) brought thousands of people together for the beef feast.
Finally, CEDA continued to show commitment to the youth of Botswana by supporting Young Farmers Association in Borolong. The association hosted an inaugural field day in Mosu, Ramatlabama. CEDA’s Agribusiness Support Manager, Mr Kelemogile Molefhe urged the youth to utilise and form such associations as the Young Farmers Association to advocate for easier access to funds and resources.