Challenges Stunt Livestock Potential In Botswana

Botswana’s livestock sector boasts natural grazing advantages, presenting an opportunity for niche market appeal. However, as highlighted by Mr. Gokatweng ‘Coach’ Tshekiso, the host of this year’s Sandveld Field Day, numerous hurdles impede its growth.

The event was held under the theme, ‘Sustainable and Profitable Livestock Farming Practices through Maximization of Ranch Carrying Capacity, Including Introduction of Agro Technologies’.

Tshekiso outlined pivotal requirements for sector prosperity, including conducive investment environments, technological advancements, increased research investment, and a shift in mindset towards livestock farming practices.

Yet, persistent challenges plague the industry, from veld fires and inadequate infrastructure to gaps in animal health support and cumbersome market procedures. These obstacles thwart the sector’s potential contribution to the economy, despite the allure of natural pasture-grazed products. Addressing these concerns, the Minister of Agriculture, Fidelis Molao, lauded the Sandveld Ranchers Association for their dedication to commercialising the livestock sector.

He detailed governmental initiatives like Temo Letlotlo and the Thuo Letlotlo programmes, aimed at bolstering sustainable practices and market engagement. Emphasising the necessity of climate-resilient strategies, Minister Molao highlighted digitalisation efforts and the Beef Cluster Initiative, designed to revive the sector’s economic vitality. Despite facing challenges such as droughts and veld fires, Minister Molao reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing relief measures and disease control efforts.

He urged active engagement in discussions and practical activities, underscoring the government’s resolve to transform the livestock sector into a sustainable powerhouse.

At the Sandveld Ranchers Association Field Day, Onalethata Boikie Pitlo, BTC Product Manager, unveiled tailored solutions to enhance farmers’ efficiency.

The BTC’s VSAT Satellite internet empowers data-driven decision-making, integrating seamlessly with systems like SenseHub and BAITS.

With digital transformation solutions including RFID tags and GPS tracking, the BTC also offers value-added services like Fixed Voice lines and Cloud Storage, catering to internet speeds ranging from 5Mbps to 100Mbps.

Pitlo stressed the importance of the partnership between the BTC and the Sandveld Ranchers Association, striving for solutions aligned with farmers’ needs. By bridging technology and agriculture, the BTC aims to revolutionise livestock farming, unlocking its true potential in Botswana’s economy.