It turns out that Howard is also a No-till advocate and the farms in several US states that he controls do not till the soil.
It was a moderated discussion about the lessons he has learned in his decades of work spreading the word about No-till and conservation practices around the world.
Although the conversation was about the successes and challenges of implementing No-till globally and ensuring food security, 90% of Howard’s presentation was devoted to Ukraine.
He told the American farmers about the horrors of war that he had seen with his own eyes during his numerous visits to Ukraine – the destroyed towns and villages, the people affected, the economic problems, the damage to Ukrainian soil.
Howard Buffett spoke extensively about the need to help Ukraine win this war and the investments his foundation has made since the full-scale Russian invasion to help Ukrainian farmers continue to produce and export, and why Ukraine’s post-war recovery must include the introduction of conservation agriculture practices.
Separately, they also highlighted the challenges of working in the de-occupied territories. The Buffett Foundation provides a lot of technical support in de-mining fields as well.
This is the first time I’ve heard someone abroad speak so deeply and emotionally about the problems Ukraine has faced during this damn war. I don’t know what the American farmers felt during this speech, but even we, the Ukrainian participants of the conference, were touched by it.
After the speech, we had the opportunity to talk to Howard in a more intimate setting. We talked not only about the Buffett Foundation’s activities now but also after our victory.
If I could express in one word the atmosphere that was created at this meeting, I would choose the word “sincere” to my own surprise!
A big respect to Howard Buffett, who not only provides great assistance to our country but is, in my opinion, one of the best ambassadors of Ukraine in the United States.
