Absa Bank Botswana, one of the biggest commercial banks in the country is the main sponsor of the this year’s National Agricultural Show 2023, which is by far the largest agricultural event in the country by any measure.

This year’s show hasz kicked off in Sebele, north of Gaborone and will end on the 27th of August 2023. "We recognise the vital role that the agriculture sector plays in driving economic development and sustainable growth in Botswana. As the main sponsor and partner of the National Agricultural Show, we are reaffirming our commitment to empowering local farmers and entrepreneurs," said Keabetswe Pheko-Moshagane, Absa Bank Botswana Managing Director.

The show is held under the theme ‘Enhancing Agricultural Productivity through Utilisation of Modern Technologies’. According to Absa, which is listed on Botswana Stock Exchange, the annual event is a relevant and needed platform for showcasing agricultural innovation, forging partnerships, and highlighting Botswana's farming community’s achievements in the journey to creating food security for the country.

“This strategic partnership reflects Absa's commitment to the growth and success of Botswana's agriculture sector and its dedication to fostering sustainable progress through innovation and collaboration,” said the bank, which also has dedicated financing solutions to the sector, which contributes about 5 percent to the national economy.

"Our partnership with National Agricultural Show underscores our commitment to the transformative power of agriculture as an economic driver. We are dedicated to providing innovative financial solutions that address the real challenges faced by our clients, be their partner of choice and offer them the relevant sector expertise for them to make key decisions concerning their businesses,” said Keletso Setimela, Head of Business Banking for Absa Bank Botswana.

This year’s National Agriculture Show comes a few weeks after the Ghanzi show, where Absa played a significant role through its sponsorship of the prizes and the provision of protective clothing for the livestock handlers. Absa also brought convenience to the banking public as they had a mobile ATM stationed within the Ghanzi show grounds throughout the duration of the show.