Botswana and Zambia are currently engaged in discussions aimed at sharing best practices to enhance the agriculture sector's value chain, diversification, and growth. A team from Zambia�s Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock is currently in Botswana for a week-long benchmarking exercise as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration in agriculture between the two nations. The highlight of this collaboration is the finalization of the Proposed Framework Agreement on Agriculture, expected to be considered by the Presidents of both countries at their upcoming meeting in Livingstone, Zambia next month. Leading the Zambian delegation, Ms. Himba Cheelo, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, expressed optimism about exploring areas of bilateral cooperation, particularly in livestock production. She emphasized the significance of the proposed Framework Agreement in advancing the aspirations of Presidents Masisi and Hichilema in fostering mutual progress. The visit follows bilateral talks between the two Presidents in January 2024, where agriculture, including crops, livestock, and fisheries, featured prominently. Ms. Cheelo highlighted the importance of this benchmarking exercise, acknowledging Botswana's expertise in the sector and Zambia's interest in learning from its neighbor. The delegation's focus includes effective livestock breeding techniques such as artificial insemination and embryo transfer, as well as management practices for enhanced productivity. Discussions also revolve around Botswana's successful management of its livestock industry despite climatic challenges, with particular interest in vaccine production and distribution. Ms. Cheelo noted Zambia's readiness to share experiences and lessons, especially in fisheries and aquaculture, areas where Zambia has excelled. She invited Botswana to explore Zambia's aquaculture initiatives and expressed Zambia's willingness to provide support in leveraging and exploiting Botswana's aquaculture sector potential. Welcoming the delegation, Ms. Mmadima Nyathi highlighted Botswana's efforts to revitalize its agriculture sector through initiatives like Temo Letlotlo and Khumo Letlotlo. She acknowledged the decline in the sector's contribution to GDP over the years but expressed optimism about its potential resurgence. Ms. Nyathi emphasized the importance of exchanging best practices between the two countries, with Botswana eager to learn from Zambia's successes in aquaculture and fisheries. Despite challenges such as Foot and Mouth Disease outbreaks, Botswana has made strides in veterinary services, ensuring disease containment and high-quality livestock production for international markets. Advanced reproductive technologies and the importation of superior livestock genetics are further enhancing Botswana's livestock industry. In conclusion, the collaboration between Botswana and Zambia in agriculture signifies a mutual commitment to harnessing the sector's potential for economic development and prosperity. Both nations stand to benefit from sharing expertise and leveraging each other's strengths to achieve agricultural excellence.