BITRI exhibited at the Ghanzi Show that was held from 22^nd to 28^th July. The Building Materials Science division showcased the KSBB Technology, given that Ghanzi and its hinterland are not only Kalahari sand territory, but also home to a cluster of four (4) KSBB depots, with two currently under construction and close to completion, and the other two scheduled for subsequent site mobilization.

A wall stub constructed to demonstrate use of the KSBB, showcase its aesthetic appeal and sturdiness as a building material. The Energy division also took advantage of this event to promote technologies that are applicable to farming enterprises in the form of the Biodigester and the Energy Efficient Stove. Prospective customers got a chance to witness demonstrations on the energy efficient stove, which is under development. The stove uses considerably less biomass and utilises super heat to heat the bottom of the pot, drastically reducing cooking time and contributing towards use of firewood and related biomass.

The official opening of the event was conducted by the President of the Republic of Namibia, His Excellency Dr. Hage G Geingob, who attended the event by invitation of the President of Republic of Botswana, His Excellency Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi based on the fact that Botswana and Namibia’s shared interest in the pastoral farming subsector and due to Ghanzi region’s proximity to the cattle-rearing area in Namibia. President Masisi and the H. E. Geingob led a delegation that made a stop at the BITRI stall during the tour of stalls. The delegation were briefed on some of the products relevant to farmers, including the energy efficient stove due to its capacity to preserve the environment as it uses less biomass; as well as the Climate Smart Agriculture manual that provides a guide to small scale arable farmers on how to use climate change smart technologies to increase productivity and resilience against adverse climate conditions.

The event, organized by the Ghanzi Show Trust, provides a suitable forum for farmers, parastatals, government agencies, companies, and small traders to showcase services and goods and communicate the value of their offerings to the market. The show also featured activities such as livestock shows, crop shows, horse race, dog race and gala dinner. On top of being a platform for stakeholder education and marketing, the event also provides leisure opportunities and attracts interest from travelers from the local market, South Africa and Namibia.

BITRI was represented by Resident Engineer, Mangaliso Dennison, Communications Officer, Frank Rakgomo, Associate Researcher – Building Materials Science, Gaolatlhe Swereki, Technology Transfer Officer, Kesupemang Pitlagano, and Assistant Product Designer, Humphrey Matlapeng.