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Presentation: High-Value Crop Clusters: Cactus
SESSION 2: Agro-Processing: Farming & Value Addition of High Value Crops for Local & Export Markets
Location: GICC - 9/2/25, 2:00 PM - 9/2/25, 2:20 PM (Africa/Gaborone) (20 minutes)
Presentation: High-Value Crop Clusters: Cactus
Robert Zuk
Director of Business Development at Nopal Renewable Energy Corporation
Robert Zuk
Director of Business Development at Nopal Renewable Energy Corporation
Robert Zuk, an authority in nopal cactus, carbon credits, and biofuels, is a visionary leader dedicated to fostering sustainable solutions. Robert champions initiatives that harness the nopal cactus's potential, not only as a carbon sink and biofuel feedstock but also as a catalyst for socioeconomic empowerment in marginalized communities. His strategic acumen bridges environmental conservation with economic development, creating a harmonious synergy. Robert's commitment to mitigating climate change, advancing biofuel technologies, and cultivating positive societal impacts exemplifies his role as a transformative force in the intersection of environmental science, renewable energy, and community well-being.

Robert has 20 years experience in Corporate Finance, Investment Banking and Investor Relations. He has assisted Governments in Industrial Development initiatives and technology ventures in North America, Europe, and resource companies in Canada
Robert conducted international contract negotiations and business development. Most recently he has been involved in the resource sector in Africa, developing relationships with all levels of government and the business sector.
In 2010 he created a unique program, which was implemented for the Government of Equatorial Guinea. The program consisted of a complete airborne survey covering the entire mainland area (27,000 square kilometers) in exchange for a large percentage of the mineral rights. The contract was signed in April 2010 and the airborne survey was completed at the end 2011.

Specialties: Creating fair and equitable partnerships between African Nations and the international Investment community,

The session will profile the cactus value chain, with a cluster representative sharing local successes, lessons learned, and future ambitions. This segment will highlight land requirements, climate suitability, pest management, and market size and linkages—along with current clusters producing this high value crop. This crop’s clusters represent Botswana’s opportunity to create competitive rural industries with export potential, while also building nutrition security and sustainable farming systems.

Export Market Access & Trade Protocols

Understanding the rules, standards, and pathways to regional and global markets.

Special Economic Zones & Industrial Infrastructure

Leveraging SEZs and infrastructure to drive manufacturing competitiveness.

Financing & Investment Support

Unlocking capital, incentives, and risk mitigation for manufacturers.

Skills, Technology & Innovation

Building the capabilities needed for modern, export-ready production.

Public–Private Partnerships

Aligning policy, industry, and investment to accelerate industrial growth.

LMS26 is designed not only as a conversation space but as an action-oriented platform—connecting manufacturers with policymakers, financiers, buyers, and solution providers to unlock tangible growth opportunities. By fostering collaboration, sharing proven regional case studies, and aligning policy with industry needs, the Local Manufacturing Summit 2026 aims to play a pivotal role in positioning Botswana as a competitive manufacturing and export hub within Africa and beyond.

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